The best camping near Inupiat Heritage Center

If you find yourself passing through the northernmost city in the U.S., plan to spend an hour at this museum in Utqiaġvik (a.k.a. Barrow).

The center recognizes the contributions of the TYupik and Inupiat people to the history of whaling. Through exhibits, artifact collections, and demos the center highlights the role Alaska Natives played in commercial whaling in the United States. There are a library and a gift shop stocked with souvenirs and traditional Iñupiat art pieces. You might even catch a live dance in progress.

The best part of the visit for many is a walk through the artisan workshop behind the building. Here native craftspeople create, display and sell their carvings, paintings, and jewelry. It's a wonderful chance to learn how people have lived in this harsh region for a long time.

The Iñupiat Heritage Center hosts a number of festivals throughout the year. It's also an important educational resource for local children. There are community outreach workshops as well as an annual Iñupiat History, Language, & Culture Conference. Much of the work the center does is designed to promote awareness and appreciation of the Iñupiat way of life.

Explore camping on public campgrounds along the way or on private land through Hipcamp.