The Anchorage Museum gathers together some of Alaska's most dramatic traditions and transforms them into exhibits and attractions that allow them to come alive in various multi-dimensional presentations. One of the museum's galleries features 600 Alaska Native artifacts that are on loan from the Smithsonian Institution. Some of these items include ceremonial masks, battle armor and waterproof clothing made from the intestines of a seal. The museum features 80 exhibits that include an aurora machine, a marine animal touch tank and the very popular earthquake shake table. New additions include a planetarium and an Alaska Native contemporary art gallery.
Discover the Alaska's connection to Russia when you tour Eklutna Historical Park. This hidden treasure has been open since 1990 and the staff and personnel work hard to preserve the cultural traditions of the south-central Alaskan native peoples. When you visit the village, the first stop is the Heritage House that features native art, old photographs and various historical presentations. You'll also see greater Anchorage's oldest building, the Russian Orthodox St. Nicholas Church, that is located within the park.