Iñupiat Heritage Center - National Park Directory

Museum exhibit case with fur parkas and boots

Traditional clothing of the Inupiaq on exhibit at the Center

Two people sit by a tent and a skin canoe in snow next to the ocean.

A whaling crew (Hopson 1) waits patiently at the open lead for a bowhead whale, May 2002.

Large building with words "Inupiat Heritage Center" on the side

The Inupiat Heritage Center promotes Inupiaq culture, history and language through exhibits, classes, performances and activities.

Five people in heavy clothing paddle a skin canoe in icy waters

Five masks with fur trim in a display case.

A collection of masks from the Inupiat Heritage Center

Photos: National Park Service

About Iñupiat Heritage Center

On the rooftop of the world, the Iñupiat Heritage Center in Barrow, Alaska, tells the story of the Iñupiat people. They have thrived for thousands of years in one of the most extreme climates on Earth, hunting the bowhead, or "Agviq." In the 19th century, the quiet northern seas swarmed with commercial whalemen from New England, who also sought the bowhead for its valuable baleen and blubber.

Quick Facts

State Alaska

State Code AK

Weather Owing to its location 320 miles (515 km) north of the Arctic Circle, Barrow's climate is cold and dry, classified as a polar climate (Köppen ET). Winter weather can be…

Location & Map

Iñupiat Heritage Center is located in Alaska.

Get Directions

Operating Hours

The physical site is not managed by the NPS. Please call 907 852-0422 for hours of operation.

Wednesday Closed

Monday Closed

Thursday Closed

Sunday Closed

Tuesday Closed

Friday Closed

Saturday Closed

Activities

Arts and Culture Hunting and Gathering

Getting There

The Inupiat Heritage Center is located in Barrow, Alaska, the largest city in the North Slope Borough and the northernmost city in the United States. Barrow can be reached via commercial and charter flights from Anchorage and Fairbanks.

View Official Directions

Contact & Address

Address 5421 North Star Street, Barrow, AK, 99723

Phone 907-434-0805

Email jacob_martin@nps.gov

Topics & Themes

Native American Heritage

🗺️ Guided Tours & Experiences

Discover Iñupiat Heritage Center with expert-led tours

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

🏨 Find Hotels Near Iñupiat Heritage Center

Compare accommodation options for your visit