10 of the Top Native and Indigenous Experiences in the US Per Viator Travelers
The cultural diversity of the US is one of its strengths, but despite waves of immigration from around the world, this land has always belonged to Native and Indigenous peoples. Many Indigenous cultures still maintain distinct customs which you can explore on Native American history tours and experiences throughout the US. You’ll also gain insight into the centuries of oppression, exploitation, and alienation from traditional lands that some cultures have suffered.
However, although Indigenous peoples live throughout the vast country, their presence is more visible in certain regions. Read on to learn where you can broaden your perspective and find some of the best Indigenous experiences in the US.
1. Take a Navajo-led tour of Monument Valley, Arizona and Utah
Monument Valley—spanning Arizona and Utah—is one of the most iconic attractions in the Southwest. But long before the red sandstone buttes served as a backdrop for classic Western films, the area was (and still is) sacred to the local people. Monument Valley is in fact a Tribal Park run by members of the Navajo Nation, where you'll find Navajo-guided tours that'll give you an overview of both the area's landscape and Indigenous culture. Take one of the Native American history tours led by a Navajo guide to learn more about the geology and culture of this unforgettable landscape.
What one reviewer said: “Truly knowledgeable Navajo guide who gave us the full experience about Monument Valley and the Navajo culture. Highly recommend, we loved every minute.” Lisa_D, September 2025
2. Enjoy a Navajo dinner show in Page, Arizona
Many people visit Page, Arizona—located beside the border with Utah—to check out the incredible Antelope Canyon, Lake Powell, and Horseshoe Bend on the Colorado River. While you’re likely to spend your days exploring these otherworldly desert landscapes, by evening you can enjoy some entertainment. Book a Navajo dinner show for a night of dancing, drumming, music, and storytelling, plus a meal of local favorites, including Navajo tacos made from Navajo frybread. Many of the best cultural heritage tours in the US revolve around food, and this one is no exception, so come hungry.
What one reviewer said: “We enjoyed our time at Red Heritage. We learned many things about the Navajo Nation and had the chance to experience part of their culture through the dances. The dinner was also great and yummy. Highly recommend the experience.” Mariela_G, March 2025
3. Opt for a Sinagua ruins tour near Sedona, Arizona
In Arizona, dramatic ruins which are remnants of ancient societies that settled here can be found tucked beneath cliffs and inside desert canyons. The Montezuma Castle National Monument is a multi-story desert “apartment” that was home to the Sinagua people who lived in the area between the 12th and 15th centuries; visiting is also one of the most unique Indigenous travel experiences out there. Book a day trip from Phoenix to see the majestic ruins, such as this tour that also includes plenty of time to explore the artistic town of Sedona.
What one reviewer said: “Aldo is an awesome tour guide and he made sure we had a great time and learned a thing or two about the places we visited. Very lucky to have also spent time with a friendly group of people and made some fun memories for someone like myself doing some solo traveling. Thank you for the experience!” Kat_T, May 2025
4. Tour Mesa Verde National Park from Durango, Colorado
You can also see ancient cave dwellings over the border in Colorado at the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Mesa Verde National Park, where you can explore the places in which the Ancestral Pueblo people lived for more than 700 years. Here, you can take a guided day tour from Durango to visit the caves and other archaeological sites while learning about the history of the Puebloan people. The national park is also a Dark Sky Park, offering excellent stargazing if you want to stay the night in the nearby town of Cortez.
What one reviewer said: “Our guide Miles was excellent! Very knowledgeable. He made the experience educational and very enjoyable. [He answered] many questions and told us a lot about the area on the drive from Durango. Highly recommend this tour, it was amazing!” Melissa_G, September 2025
5. Try a Haida-guided tour of Ketchikan, Alaska
Alaska’s Inside Passage is a popular cruise destination, and while you’re on shore at any of the stops along the way, sign up for a cultural tour to learn more about the people of Alaska. Ketchikan in particular is renowned for its rich Alaska Native culture, and many totem poles can be seen throughout the small town. Join a local Haida guide on a tour of Ketchikan’s Totem Heritage Center and a few local beaches, from where you might spot whales, bears, eagles, and other wildlife.
What one reviewer said: “Dave was a gem of a guide, sharing much about his tribal background, legends and history that we could not have gotten elsewhere. His knowledge and kindness were especially appreciated. And we saw four bears, including a momma and a cub.” S_H, August 2025
6. Learn more on a cultural tour of Juneau, Alaska
Further north on Alaska’s Panhandle, state capital Juneau also proudly displays many Native Alaskan cultural treasures. This tour, led by an Indigenous guide, introduces you to Indigenous culture and stories on a walk through town. You’ll also ascend the 3,819-foot-high (1,164-meter-high) Mt. Roberts via the Mt. Roberts Tramway, for sweeping views of the harborside city. Dress warm!
What one reviewer said: “Great way to learn about the history of the area and the totems of the Indigenous people! Guide was very informative and patient with all our questions! While the day was drizzly [with] dense fog, it was still a great way to spend the day. The tram ride was a nice experience, even with the limited visibility!” Eldon_B, June 2025
7. Visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center in Anchorage, Alaska
Located in Anchorage, the Alaska Native Heritage Center is one of the best Native American museums in the US, offering visitors insight into Native Alaskan storytelling, carving, dancing, arts, and crafts. You can talk to carvers, view replica traditional dwellings, and admire clothing made from the hides of local animals such as seals and moose. Prebook your admission ticket to the center to simplify your plans while visiting Anchorage; this is especially handy if you’re on a quick shore excursion in the city.
What one reviewer said: “There is so much to learn about the Native Alaskan people and their history. The pride in their heritage is evident when you listen to the young people demonstrate their games, dancing, and other traditions. Highly recommended!” Stephanie_C, July 2025
8. Soak up a Polynesian warrior show and dinner in Hawaii
Indigenous tourism in the US isn’t restricted to the mainland. While Hawaii’s Native Polynesian culture shares more with other Pacific Island nations, such as Samoa, Tonga, and French Polynesia, than other Indigenous US cultures, it also exemplifies the diversity of Native American cultures. A traditional Hawaiian luau offers an accessible way to experience Native Hawaiian culture on Oahu. During this luau, performers enact war history through traditional dance—including fire-knife performances—while you feast on a buffet of local favorites.
What one reviewer said: “This was a one-of-a-kind luau. We’ve been to four luaus over the years and this [was] by far the best. Watching the young members perform was excellent. Excellent family atmosphere and food was outstanding. Well done!” Riley_R, September 2025
9. Explore Tocobaga history in St. Petersburg, Florida
St. Petersburg, Florida may be best known for its low-key pace of life and stunning sunset views at Clearwater Beach, but it's also home to rich Indigenous history, which you can explore on a tour of the Jungle Prada site, home to three intact mounds created by the Tocobaga chiefdom between 1000 and 1600. Here, walk through Jungle Prada de Navarez Park and learn about the history of the mounds before and after the Spanish colonized the area.
What one reviewer said: "Wonderful tour! You’re supporting [...] a family who has been passionate about horticulture and the preservation of history for three generations. We learned a lot. The stories were interesting and engaging. The lands were beautiful, even post hurricane. 10/10 recommend. I think we will be back with friends to do this again." vanessajpeskishev, May 2025
10. Try a Taíno experience in Puerto Rico
Another excellent Indigenous cultural tour in the US—albeit on the colonized island of Puerto Rico—this day tour from San Juan introduces you to the history and culture of the Indigenous Taíno people. Prior to European colonization, the Taíno people lived throughout the Greater Antilles in the Caribbean, including Puerto Rico. Explore many aspects of this ancient culture are still thriving here today: Check out ceremonial grounds, admire petroglyphs beside a river (where you can swim), and then refuel with a farm-to-table meal at a permaculture farm.
What one reviewer said: “This tour is a lovely option to get out of San Juan for the day. It is a fun combination of activities learning about Taíno ancestral history, cooling off at a secluded waterfall, and eating a delicious lunch at a self-sustaining farm.” Britnee_N, August 2025
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