Indiana has a rich Native American history that goes back thousands of years. From ancient earthworks and village sites to cultural centers and museums, there are many places across the state where you can learn about the first people who lived on this land.
If you’re interested in history, culture, and traditions, here are 8 of the best places to explore Indiana’s Native American heritage.
1. Angel Mounds State Historic Site – Evansville, IN
One of the best-preserved prehistoric Native American sites in the U.S., Angel Mounds was home to the Mississippian culture around 1,000 years ago. You can walk through the ancient village site, see mounds built for ceremonies, and visit the museum to learn about daily life in the settlement.
2. Mounds State Park – Anderson, IN
This park features a series of earthworks built by the Adena and Hopewell people over 2,000 years ago. These ceremonial mounds are still well-preserved, and visitors can hike trails, take guided tours, and visit a small nature center with displays on the ancient cultures.
3. Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art – Indianapolis, IN
Located in downtown Indianapolis, this museum offers a deep look into Native American art, traditions, and stories. It includes items from tribes across North America and often features exhibits highlighting Indiana’s native history. The museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in Native cultures and the American West.
4. Miami Nation of Indiana – Peru, IN
Though not federally recognized, the Miami Nation has a strong presence in Indiana. You can visit the tribe’s headquarters in Peru to learn about their modern efforts to keep traditions alive. They also host annual events like powwows where you can experience Native music, dance, and crafts.
5. Chief Richardville House – Fort Wayne, IN
This historic home belonged to Chief Jean-Baptiste de Richardville, a Miami leader in the 1800s. The house is now a National Historic Landmark and offers insights into the lives of Native Americans during the early 19th century, when many tribes faced pressure from settlers and government policies.
6. Glenn A. Black Laboratory of Archaeology – Bloomington, IN
Part of Indiana University, this research center holds thousands of artifacts and archives related to Indiana’s Native peoples. While it mainly serves researchers, public tours and displays offer fascinating insights into ancient cultures. It also helps manage and study important sites like Angel Mounds.
7. Prophetstown State Park – West Lafayette, IN
This park honors Tenskwatawa, the Prophet and brother of Shawnee leader Tecumseh. The park includes trails, a farm, and educational programs about the Prophetstown settlement, which was a Native-led resistance community during the early 1800s. It’s a peaceful place with powerful history.
8. Mississinewa 1812 Battlefield and Reenactment – Marion, IN
Every October, this historic site hosts Mississinewa 1812, the largest War of 1812 reenactment in the U.S. It includes Native reenactors, traditional dances, and camps that show how Native Americans lived and fought during this time. It’s both fun and educational, ideal for families
From ancient earthworks to living tribal cultures, Indiana offers many opportunities to learn about its deep Native American roots. Visiting these places helps us understand the people who lived here long before modern cities and roads existed. Whether you’re a student, a traveler, or a history lover, these heritage sites and museums will give you a deeper appreciation for Indiana’s first peoples and their lasting impact.
SOURCES
[1] https://www.in.gov/history/for-educators/all-resources-for-educators/resources/american-indians/museums-with-american-indian-focus/
[2] https://eiteljorg.org
[3] https://www.indianamuseum.org/experience/first-nations/
[4] https://www.indianamuseum.org
[5] https://whiteriverstatepark.org/venue/eiteljorg-museum/
