The Institute for American Indian Studies in Washington, Connecticut offers a unique window into the rich history of Indigenous peoples in the Northeast. Located in the scenic hills of western Connecticut, this museum and research center has been preserving and sharing Native American cultures since 1975. You’ll discover interactive exhibits spanning 10,000 years of Indigenous history, from ancient archaeological findings to present-day cultural expressions.
When you visit, you can explore a replica Algonkian village, walk nature trails featuring plants traditionally used by native peoples, and participate in fun workshops and festivals for all ages. The Institute began as a collaborative hub between Indigenous and non-Indigenous archaeologists and community members, and continues this important partnership today through various programs and exhibitions that honor the preservation and resurgence of Indigenous knowledge and lifeways.
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Connecticut! Look for deals here:
Connecticut Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs
The Institute For American Indian Studies
The Institute for American Indian Studies (IAIS) in Washington, Connecticut offers you a unique chance to explore 12,000 years of Native American history. Founded in 1975, this museum preserves and celebrates the diverse traditions of Indigenous cultures through engaging exhibits and programs.
When you visit, you’ll discover a remarkable collection of over 300,000 archaeological artifacts and 6,000 ethnographic items representing Native American societies across the Western Hemisphere. The museum’s archaeological significance includes the discovery of the Templeton Site, an 11,000-year-old camp that’s one of Connecticut’s earliest known archaeological sites.
IAIS provides Indigenous-led education that centers Native perspectives. Their popular programs include summer camps, workshops, and the award-winning Wigwam Escape room. You can participate in hands-on activities like AtlAtl making or traditional dance circles during their Green Corn Festival.
The museum serves as both an educational resource for non-Indigenous visitors and a site for cultural revitalization through Indigenous-led workshops. Their commitment to ethical practices includes efforts to return cultural artifacts to descendant communities whenever possible.
Rating: 4.8 (53 reviews)
Location: 38 Curtis Rd, Washington, CT 06793
Contact: (860) 868-0518
Website: Visit Website
History of the Institute
The Institute for American Indian Studies (IAIS) began its journey in 1975 in Washington, Connecticut. It was originally called the American Indian Archaeological Institute (AIAI). The founders created it as a collaborative research hub between Indigenous and non-Indigenous archaeologists and community members.
Since its founding, IAIS has focused on preserving and sharing the culture and history of Native American peoples. They’ve put special emphasis on the Indigenous peoples from the Northeastern Woodlands region.
Over the years, the Institute has grown beyond just research. Today, it serves as both a museum and educational center dedicated to promoting understanding of Native American cultures throughout the Americas.
When you visit, you’ll find that IAIS offers Indigenous-led education that centers Native perspectives. The museum welcomes thousands of visitors each year, including many K-12 students who come to learn about Connecticut’s original inhabitants.
The Institute maintains partnerships with Indigenous elders and community members. You can learn about these important relationships in their Hall of Elders exhibition.
IAIS continues its mission to provide resources for the preservation and resurgence of Indigenous knowledge and lifeways. Their work helps tell the 10,000-year story of Connecticut’s Native peoples, from ancient times right up to the present day.
Exhibits and Collections
The Institute for American Indian Studies houses impressive exhibits and collections that bring Native American history to life. The museum offers both permanent displays and special collections that showcase over 300,000 archaeological artifacts and thousands of ethnographic items.
Permanent Exhibits
The core exhibition at IAIS takes you through an amazing 10,000-year journey of Connecticut’s Native American peoples. You’ll discover how indigenous communities lived from ancient times to the present day. The exhibits are designed to be accurate, informative, and engaging, with a focus on indigenous perspectives.
When you visit, don’t miss the replicated 16th century Algonkian village on the museum grounds! This outdoor exhibit helps you understand daily life in a Native American community before European contact. The village is particularly popular with families and school groups.
Inside the museum, displays showcase traditional tools, pottery, clothing, and cultural items that tell the story of Native American ingenuity and adaptation over thousands of years.
Special Collections
The Research and Collections Department at IAIS manages an impressive array of Native American cultural materials. You’ll find over 6,000 ethnographic items (created after European contact) and more than 300,000 archaeological artifacts representing hundreds of Native American societies throughout the Western Hemisphere.
The collections include rare and unique items that highlight indigenous knowledge, craftsmanship, and artistic traditions. Many pieces date back centuries and provide important insights into traditional lifeways.
You can also explore the museum’s medicinal garden featuring plants used by Native Americans for healing purposes. The hiking trails on the museum grounds offer another dimension to your visit, allowing you to experience the natural environment that sustained indigenous communities.
Educational Programs and Events
The Institute for American Indian Studies offers a rich variety of educational experiences that span 12,000 years of indigenous history. Their programs bring Native American culture to life through interactive learning opportunities for all ages.
Workshops and Lectures
The Institute provides engaging workshops where you can learn traditional Native American crafts and skills. These hands-on sessions let you try activities like pottery making, beadwork, and weaving. Many workshops are family-friendly, making them perfect for a day of learning together.
Academic lectures feature indigenous voices and expert scholars who share knowledge about local Native American history and culture. These talks cover fascinating topics from archaeology to contemporary indigenous issues.
For homeschool families, the Institute offers specialized programs that align with educational standards while providing unique cultural perspectives. These sessions blend history, art, and environmental studies in ways textbooks simply can’t match.
Adult-focused programs delve deeper into specific aspects of Native American traditions, with opportunities to develop skills and understanding over multiple sessions.
Cultural Events
The upcoming Maple Sugar Festival 2025 represents one of the Institute’s most popular annual events. You’ll experience traditional maple sugaring methods used by indigenous peoples long before European contact.
The Institute hosts seasonal celebrations that follow the natural rhythms important to Native American cultures. These family-friendly events often include:
- Traditional dancing demonstrations
- Storytelling sessions
- Native food tastings
- Craft demonstrations
- Guided nature walks
Summer camp programs give children immersive experiences in indigenous culture, outdoor skills, and environmental education. These camps blend fun with meaningful cultural education.
Special exhibitions throughout the year showcase different aspects of Native American art, history, and contemporary culture. These rotating displays ensure there’s always something new to discover on your visits.
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Connecticut! Look for deals here:
Connecticut Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs
Fairfield County
Hartford County
Litchfield County
Middlesex County
New Haven County
New London County
Tolland County
