Blog Articles

• 04/06/2026 18:44

  Beyond the Mother Road: Leveraging the Route 66 Centennial to Showcase Tribal Tourism and Gaming

  As the United States approaches the 2026 Centennial of Route 66, the world is preparing to celebrate the Mother Road. For many, this evokes images of neon signs, vintage Corvettes, and mid-century diners. But for the Indigenous peoples who have called these lands home since time immemorial, Route 66 represents a much deeper narrative — one of ancient trade routes, forced displacement, cultural resilience, and, today, economic sovereignty.

  For tribal gaming and hospitality operators, the Centennial is not just a milestone; it is a monumental opportunity to reclaim the narrative of the road and drive significant tourism traffic to tribal destinations.

  The Indigenous Roots of the Mother Road

  Long before the first stretch of asphalt was laid in 1926, the corridor we now call Route 66 followed trails established by Indigenous nations for trade, seasonal migration, and communication. From the Osage Trace in Missouri to the ancestral paths of the Pueblo peoples in New Mexico and the Mojave in California, the road was built upon a foundation of Indigenous geography.

  When the highway was formalized, it brought a new wave of travelers through the doorsteps of more than 25 tribal nations. While early 20th-century tourism often utilized “Indian imagery” in ways that were stereotypical or exploitative, the 2026 Centennial allows tribes to flip the script. As outlined in the American Indigenous Tourism Association’s (formerly AIANTA) 2016 guide, American Indians and Route 66, the highway is a vein that connects travelers to the living cultures of the people who preceded the road and survived its expansion.

  The Economic Engine: Gaming and Hospitality Along the Route

  For the tribal gaming industry, Route 66 is a high-traffic artery. Travelers navigating the 2,448 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica are increasingly seeking “authentic” experiences — moving away from cookie-cutter pit stops in favor of destinations that offer cultural depth, world-class hospitality, and unique entertainment.

  Along the route, tribal gaming enterprises serve as modern-day “trading posts,” providing essential infrastructure for Route 66 travelers. The American Indians and Route 66 guide highlights numerous nations that have successfully integrated the highway’s legacy with modern economic development:

  Oklahoma: The road passes through the jurisdictions of the Quapaw, Wyandotte, Cherokee, Muscogee, and Choctaw Nations, among others. Destinations like the Downstream Casino Resort (Quapaw Nation) and the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa (Cherokee Nation) serve as anchors for travelers entering the state, offering luxury accommodations that fund vital tribal social programs.

  New Mexico: The highway bisects the heart of Pueblo country. The Sandia Resort & Casino (Pueblo of Sandia) and Isleta Resort & Casino (Pueblo of Isleta) offer breathtaking views of the Rio Grande Valley, serving as gateways to the ancient Acoma Sky City — the oldest continuously inhabited community in North America.

  Arizona: As the road winds through the high desert, the Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort provides a glimpse into the vastness of the Navajo Nation, blending contemporary gaming with Navajo art and architecture that tells the story of the Diné.

  Thought Leadership: Preparing for 2026

  The 2026 Centennial is expected to draw millions of domestic and international tourists. For tribal operators, “business as usual” will not be enough to capture this market. We must position our properties as more than just gaming floors; we must position them as cultural hubs.

  To lead in this space, here are some tips for tribal hospitality leaders along Route 66 to consider:

  Cultural interpretive programming: Use the 2016 American Indians and Route 66 guide as a blueprint to audit your property’s connection to the road. Can a guest at your hotel learn about the ancestral lands they are standing on? Partner with tribal cultural departments to integrate authentic storytelling into the guest experience.

  Collaborative marketing: Route 66 travelers are collectors of experiences. Work with neighboring tribes to create a “Tribal Route 66 Trail,” encouraging visitors to stamp a digital passport at different tribal properties across state lines.

  Infrastructure and signage: Visibility is key. Many travelers remain unaware when they are entering tribal lands. Investing in clear, culturally branded signage and EV charging stations will ensure that the Mother Road traveler stops at your property rather than bypasses it for a corporate chain.

  Cultural protocols to know before you visit guide for travelers: The American Indigenous Tourism Association is dedicated to educating travelers on best practices and protocols for respectfully visiting Indigenous communities in the U.S. Consider promoting or providing the 15 Cultural Protocols to Know Before You Visit Native Homelands in the U.S. guide to travelers as you plan your Route 66 promotions so that travelers are educated before arrival.

  A Centennial of Sovereignty

  At the American Indigenous Tourism Association, our mission has always been to define, introduce, grow, and sustain American Indigenous tourism that honors traditions and values. As a non-profit organization, we are the only organization of its kind dedicated to advancing cultural tourism in Indigenous communities across the United States. As we look toward 2026, we see the Route 66 Centennial as a celebration of survival.

  The road once brought many challenges to Indian Country, but today, through the success of tribal gaming and the vision of our hospitality leaders, we are the ones in the driver’s seat. By highlighting the Indigenous roots of Route 66, we aren’t just looking back at the last 100 years — we are inviting the world to witness the next century of tribal prosperity.

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• 03/01/2026 15:13

  Travel to Tribes Along the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail

  Image CaptionThe American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association (AIANTA) and the National Park Service Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail Program partnered to produce the Travel Guide to Tribes Along the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail. The guide identifies places along the Anza Trail where travelers can explore the history, heritage and cultures of the tribes in Arizona and California. 

  The members of the 1775 Anza expedition represented families of Indigenous, African and European heritage. They migrated, seeking opportunities in Arizona and California, bringing their language, customs, and traditions with them. The sometimes violent introduction of these new cultures and practices significantly impacted the indigenous peoples along the Trail.
  

  The Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail connects Native history, art, culture and outdoor recreation along a 1,200-mile corridor from Nogales, Arizona, to the San Francisco Bay Area. Visit tribal museums to learn about the history, struggles, and ongoing existence of the Tribes.

  Tohono O'odham Nation Cultural Center & Museum

  Him Dak Eco-Museum at the Ak-Chin Community

  The San Carlos Apache Cultural Museum

  The Yoemem Tekia Cultural Center and Museum at the Pascua Yaqui Tribe

  Nohwike’ Bágowa, the White Mountain Apache Cultural Center and Museum

  The Huhugam Ki Museum at the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community

  Cocopah Museum and Cultural Center

  Colorado River Indian Tribes Museum

  Santa Ynez Chumash MuseumSanta Ynez Chumash Museum and Cultural Center

  Sycuan Cultural Center and Museum

  Barona Cultural Center & Museum

  Kumeyaay-Ipai Interpretive Center

  Agua Caliente Cultural Museum

  The Cabazon Band of Mission Indians Cultural Museum

  San Javier Plaza, Tohono O'odhamEnjoy the culinary delights of restaurants serving Native foods at Wahpepah’s Kitchen and the Ohlone Café or locally grown products like famous date shakes from Hadley’s Fruit Orchards, owned by the Morongo Band of Mission Indians.

  Take a walking tour on the Salt River Art Trail in the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community. Purchase art from Native artists at the San Xavier Plaza on the Tohono O’odham Reservation. View awe-inspiring life-size sculptures like the Pascua Yaqui Deer Dancer, the basket dancer at the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians, the sculpture gallery at the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians casino resort, or spectacular murals like the Story of Toypurina in Los Angeles.

  Palm Canyon, Agua CalienteEnjoy recreation along the trail: hunt or fish on the San Carlos Reservation. Go horseback riding at Fort McDowell Adventures or the Koli Equestrian Center at the Gila River Indian Community. Ski in the winter or bike in the summer at the White Mountain Apache’s Sunrise Park Resort. Hike and camp at the Los Coyotes Campground. Tour the Indian and Tahquitz Canyons at the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. Go tubing along the San Luis Rey River or bike the trails at the La Jolla Band of Luiseño Indians Indian Adventure Park.

  View tribal interviews taken along the Trail on YouTube.

  
  

  
  

  
  
  
• 02/15/2026 22:28

  The Jackpot on the Plate: How Tribal Gaming Cuisine Drives Indigenous Tourism and Cultural Identity

  Credit: Chef Crystal Wahpepah (Kickapoo Nation)

  In the dynamic world of tribal gaming and hospitality, the spotlight is increasingly turning to the culinary landscape. Casino resorts are moving beyond standard American fare, embracing the rich, authentic flavors and farm-to-table traditions of Native American foodways. This culinary renaissance is not just a trend — it’s a powerful statement of cultural identity, sovereignty, and economic reinvestment.

  Indigenous chefs: Honoring tradition, driving innovation

  The role of the Indigenous chef is critical in this movement, fusing ancestral ingredients and techniques with modern culinary artistry. While legendary chefs like Freddie Bitsoie (Navajo) and Nephi Craig (White Mountain Apache/Diné) have championed Indigenous cuisine — Bitsoie with his cookbook, New Native Kitchen, and Craig through the Native American Culinary Association — their influence continues to resonate in tribal enterprises.

  While their current day-to-day casino kitchen roles may have evolved, their work laid a crucial foundation. For instance, Fire Rock Casino in New Mexico continues to celebrate its Navajo heritage at Cheii’s Restaurant. The menu invites guests to “Discover Navajo” with traditional dishes like Navajo tacos and, significantly, proudly serves source-verified Navajo-grown beef, potatoes, and beans. This commitment demonstrates how a former executive chef’s vision can be permanently woven into the operation.

  The search for talented Native chefs continues to yield exciting results:

  • Wahpepah’s Kitchen (Oakland, California): Awarded Best Indigenous Culinary Experience of 2025 by the American Indigenous Tourism Association, Wahpepah’s Kitchen of California offers a culinary revolution where Chef Crystal Wahpepah transforms Native American foodways into a modern, delicious dining experience. A member of the Kickapoo Nation, she is a trailblazing chef, a James Beard Award finalist, and the first Indigenous chef to compete on the Food Network’s “Chopped.” Located in Oakland, California, on Ohlone land, Wahpepah’s Kitchen is more than just a restaurant — it’s a movement rooted in food sovereignty and sustainability. Chef Wahpepah meticulously sources ingredients from Indigenous farmers and land stewards, ensuring each dish honors heritage and the planet. From Kickapoo bison chili to cedar-smoked salmon from the Lummi Nation, the menu is a vibrant celebration of diverse Indigenous cultures. A visit to Wahpepah’s Kitchen offers a taste of history and a glimpse into the future of food, celebrating community and a deeper connection to the land.
    
  • Blackfish Wild Salmon Grill & Bar (Tulalip Resort Casino, Tulalip, Washington): This restaurant pays direct homage to the Tulalip Tribes’ traditions. Chef David Buchanan (a long-time chef at the resort) prepares the signature heritage salmon in the traditional tribal way — slow-roasted over alder coals on hand-carved ironwood stakes. This method is a profound cultural practice, not just a cooking technique, confirming that the spirit of Native food is alive and well at this important Pacific Northwest property.
  • 39 Restaurant (First Americans Museum, Oklahoma City): A powerful cultural anchor for Indigenous cuisine in Oklahoma, this restaurant honors the 39 First American Nations in the state and celebrates their diverse and distinct culinary traditions. Emmy Award-winning Chef Consultant Loretta Barrett Oden (Citizen Potawatomi Nation) and Executive Chef Benjamin Hutton blend ancestral ingredients with contemporary aesthetics, creating plates that showcase foods that have sustained their people for generations. The restaurant’s mission highlights the ancestral trade routes and sustainable foodways that benefit cultures to this day.

  
  

  From the Earth to the casino plate: farm-to-table initiatives

  Tribal casinos are uniquely positioned to deliver a true farm-to-table experience, thanks to the vast agricultural resources of their nations. This sourcing is a direct economic stimulus and a powerful marketing tool for authenticity.

  • Wild Horse Pass (Gila River Indian Community, Arizona): The ultimate expression of tribal farm-to-table dining is found at Kai (meaning “seed” in the Akimel O’othan language) at the Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass. As Arizona's only AAA Five-Diamond and Forbes Five-Star restaurant, it is a global destination. Chef de Cuisine Drew Anderson crafts a menu that incorporates the essence of the Akimel O’otham and Pee-Posh tribes, featuring ingredients locally farmed from the Gila River Indian Community. They even feature items from the Native Seed/SEARCH Foundation, ensuring ancient lines of Native American seeds are preserved and celebrated on the plate.
  • Tohono O’odham Nation’s Desert Diamond Casinos (Arizona): The presence of the Tohono O’odham Nation’s own farm suggests a prime opportunity. Sourcing fresh, tribal-grown ingredients for farm-to-table specials would be a natural and high-impact move for their dining operations.
  • Yakama Nation’s Legends Casino Hotel: Similarly, the Yakama Nation Farms is a well-established operation providing sustainable, high-quality produce with over a century of experience. Leveraging this significant asset to supply restaurants at Legends Casino Hotel would create a compelling, authentic dining narrative and strengthen the nation’s internal economy.

  By featuring Indigenous chefs, implementing robust farm-to-table sourcing, and welcoming Indigenous-owned vendors, tribal casinos are defining a new standard of hospitality. They are turning the casino floor into a stage for cultural pride, offering guests a taste of the land and the legacy of the nation itself — a true “new buffalo” for the modern age.

  This article was written by AIT and published in the 2026 Winter issue of the Tribal Gaming and Hospitality magazine.
  
• 12/26/2025 18:32

  Cultural Tourism and Casinos: How Native Nations and Communities Can Utilize Traditions to Develop Tourism Plans

  Buffalo Thunder Resort CasinoBuffalo Thunder Resort Casino

  Now in its 27th year, the American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association’s (AIANTA) American Indigenous Tourism Conference (AITC) attracts more than 300 attendees who participate for second-to-none networking opportunities, high-level keynote sessions, and informative breakout sessions led by some of the hospitality industry’s leading experts. Attendees include Indigenous entrepreneurs, artists, tour operators, cultural and museum professionals, historic preservation officers, and representatives from the travel and tourism industry, as well as educational institutions and federal, state, and local agencies.

  The AITC is hosted annually on the Indigenous homelands of various Native Nations and communities in the United States. The signature event will be held this year on the tribal homelands of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians, from October 27 to 30, at Pearl River Resort in Choctaw, Mississippi, and organized by AIANTA.

  Since the first AITC in 1999 in Albuquerque, NM, AIANTA has ensured that the event is hosted on the homelands of Indigenous tribes, organizations, enterprises, hotels, or casinos. AIANTA, the only national organization dedicated to advancing Indigenous tourism in Native Nations and communities across the United States, believes that Indigenous communities can utilize arts and cultural tourism to develop tourism plans and grow economic development.

  Native Nations are not only preserving culture but also creatively integrating it with modern enterprises to support sustainable tourism. Native Nations and communities across the United States are redefining the role of casinos — not just as economic engines, but as powerful platforms for cultural expression and education. From the redwood-lined rivers of Northern California to the desert valleys of Arizona, Indigenous communities are weaving traditional arts, history, and storytelling into the visitor experience. Whether through curated art collections, immersive cultural programs, or landscape-inspired architecture, these resorts are becoming gateways into the rich and diverse cultures of Native Nations. As more tribes look to expand tourism opportunities, these examples highlight how integrating heritage with hospitality creates deeper connections — and lasting impressions — for travelers. The following are examples of properties successfully incorporating cultural tourism into their tourism planning.

  Akwesasne Mohawk Casino Resort — Akwesasne Nation, New York

  Sitting on the border of the United States and Canada in northern New York, the Akwesasne Mohawk Nation seeks to share its history and culture with visitors as part of the tribe’s cultural tourism plan. While visitors already know the Akwesasne Mohawk Casino Resort and the annual international powwow, the tribe believes cultural tourism can be further showcased through its citizens’ artwork and a new tribal heritage complex.

  Located along New York Highway 37, the St. Regis Mohawk Reservation is in a prime location for tourism. Thousands of people visit the casino annually, as well as another 6,000-7,000 people who attend the annual powwow. Believing they can leverage those visitors into longer stays or increased room nights, Akwesasne leaders started an initiative in 2008 called Sharing the Spirit, which eventually led to the Akwesasne Cultural Tourism Strategic Action Plan (ACTSAP).

  After years of polishing ideas, the tribe finalized the ACTSAP in 2014, which led to the formation of a community working group. Each person manages a piece of the cultural tourism action plan, which was funded through a grant by the Administration for Native Americans (ANA).

  Tulalip Resort Casino — Tulalip Tribe, Washington

  Tulalip Resort Casino in Washington is a shining example of how a tribe can seamlessly integrate tribal art into its resort. This luxury destination is also a living gallery, honoring and preserving the rich cultural heritage of the art from its members and neighboring tribes. From the moment guests arrive, they are welcomed by a striking waterfall and a series of landscaped ponds featuring monumental sculptures — an orca whale breaching from the water and a bronze Tulalip spear fisherman—showing their connections to land, sea and ancestral traditions.

  James Madison, a Tulalip master carver and sculptor of Snohomish, Tlingit, and Coast Salish heritage, created a striking 24-foot story pole that anchors the hotel lobby. Outside the resort’s entrance, Salish artist Joe Gobin crafted a welcoming totem. The resort also highlights the work of artists from neighboring tribes: Phil Gray, a Tsimshian and Mikisew Cree artist, is celebrated for his intricate wood carvings; Colville artist Joe Feddersen contributes bold mixed-media pieces; and Tlingit artist Preston Singletary reimagines traditional stories through the modern medium of glass, and more.

  Buffalo Thunder — Pojoaque Pueblo, New Mexico

  Buffalo Thunder at Pojoaque Pueblo in New Mexico is more than a destination, it’s an art museum showcasing its members art, as well as art from neighboring Pueblos. Home to the impressive $2 million Buffalo Thunder Collection of Art, the resort showcases hundreds of distinctive works—including sculptures, paintings, pottery, mosaics and architectural details.  From the moment you arrive, you’re welcomed by a towering bronze sculpture of a buffalo dancer, a powerful work by former Pojoaque Governor and artist George Rivera. Every room offers hand-designed furnishings and work by local artists. The collection is curated by the nearby Poeh Cultural Center, which serves as the Native American Art and Culture center for the tribe; a walking guide to the art is also available, inviting guests to connect with the art that reflects the vibrant, living cultures of the Pueblos in the Southwest.

  Redwood Hotel and Casino — Yurok Tribe, California

  In Yurok country, everything is so big, it’s not difficult to picture yourself in the center of the world. Ancient redwood giants point to the sky with great round trunks of unimaginable diameters. And in silent solidarity they remain, standing with their original caretakers, the Yurok people. The lushness of this landscape is fed by the massive waters of the Klamath River, just before it empties into the sea, the culmination of a journey that feeds 5.6 million acres of river basin on its way home to the Pacific Ocean, passing through Yurok country at the finish line. And the Yurok people, like the land they steward, are doing big things. With the completion of the Redwood Hotel and Casino in Klamath, the Yurok Tribe immediately set plans in motion to increase tourism opportunities for adventurers looking for an outdoor experience not found anywhere else on earth. With a laser focus on improving ecological tourism, they have built a unique cultural education piece into their strategy, one that centers the voices of the Yurok people and the land itself. In 2014, after the opening of the hotel and casino, they built the Yurok Country Visitor Center, an informational hub offering travelers an opportunity to discover the Yurok Scenic Byways—five tribally designated roads within Yurok ancestral territory. They then purchased the Klamath Jet Boat Tours and adjacent RV Park in 2015, touting a 50-mile guided trip up the river where guests are treated to local wildlife sightings and a bit of adventure right on the Klamath River.

  Talking Stick Resort — Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community, Arizona

  The four diamond Talking Stick Resort, owned and operated by the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, is an iconic Scottsdale, AZ getaway. The luxury high-rise casino is so popular with spring break and spring training travelers, it might be easy to miss the resort’s cultural elements at first glance. But Talking Stick Resort is one part of the 12-stop, self-guided Salt River Art Trail. Throughout the resort are priceless pieces of Native American art, with much of it concentrated in the on-site Cultural Center, located in the resort lobby. The resort collection is recognized as the largest Native American art collection outside of a museum. The Salt River Art Trail also includes art exploration at 11 other sites, including the Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, Roadhouse Cinemas and other area hotels.

  Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort — Coeur d’Alene Tribe, Idaho

  Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Cultural Tourism, Coeur d’Alene Tribe Rather than allowing partner organizations to speak on its behalf, the award-winning Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort controls its own messaging through its internal Cultural Tourism Department. Guests can sign up for scheduled programs that explore the cultural heritage of the Coeur d’Alene Tribe and neighboring Nez Perce Tribe. Previous programs have included painting classes with local artisans, moccasin making using Pendleton materials and an evening of tribal culture with traditional foods, storytelling, dance and drums. The Cultural Tourism Department also creates customized cultural programs for groups, which include additional resort and casino incentives such as complimentary airport transportation and a charter boat cruise on Coeur d’Alene Lake with a minimum four-night stay.

  Leveraging Existing Casino Infrastructure to Support Cultural Heritage and Tourism

  Advancing cultural heritage in tandem with your enterprise starts with community. As you begin to envision, implement or enhance your tourism program, consider establishing a committee. Bringing together representatives from various tribal departments and programs, including your hotel and/or casino, your tribal marketing and communications, Tribal Historic Preservation Office, the Economic Development team, and more. Tourism affects every tribal

  department, so it is beneficial to bring together a diverse group of people to input ideas on how to carefully and sustainably develop tourism. Meeting monthly as a committee to discuss ongoing and future tourism offerings will only enhance your tourism program and team.

  This article was written by AIT and published in the 2025 Summer issue of the Tribal Gaming and Hospitality magazine.

  
  
  
• 11/07/2025 16:17

  A Gateway to Adventure: Exploring Indigenous Lands Through Casino Resorts

  Across the United States, Indigenous hotels and resorts are not just places to stay — they are gateways to outdoor adventure, cultural heritage, and the natural beauty of Native Nations and communities. By pairing comfortable accommodations with recreation tourism activities like hiking, biking, horseback riding, kayaking, and canoeing, these destinations appeal to travelers seeking more than a room key — they offer experiences that immerse guests in the landscapes and traditions of each region.

  Adventure travelers are driven by a passion for exploration and a desire to immerse themselves in the natural world, and their numbers are steadily growing. Outdoor recreation tourism is one of the fastest-expanding travel trends, fueled by travelers seeking health, wellness, and authentic connections with nature. These visitors are drawn to destinations offering hiking rugged trails, biking scenic routes, paddling pristine waters, or horseback riding across open landscapes. For them, the thrill lies in exploring new terrain, challenging themselves physically, and engaging with local culture. Resorts and hotels with direct access to such activities are increasingly in high demand.

  In Warm Springs, Oregon, Kah-Nee-Ta Resort invites visitors to explore miles of scenic trails perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding through high desert terrain. The resort’s location on the Warm Springs Reservation offers striking views and a direct connection to the area’s history.

  To the north in Worley, Idaho, the Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel draws outdoor enthusiasts with its diverse recreational offerings. Guests can embark on bike and boat tours, enjoy guided hikes through lush forest, or paddle across tranquil waters by kayak or canoe — all while learning about the tribe’s deep relationship with the land and waterways.

  In Corning, California, Rolling Hills Casino and Resort stands out with its impressive equestrian center, where guests can ride in the foothills of the Sacramento Valley or take lessons from skilled trainers. For those seeking a desert escape, We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort in Fort McDowell, Arizona, offers scenic Tamaya Stables, Pueblo of Santa Ana, NMtrail rides and traditional wagon rides, showcasing the beauty of the Sonoran Desert.

  Nearby in Chandler, Arizona, Wild Horse Pass Casino partners with the Koli Equestrian Center to give guests the chance to ride horseback across open desert landscapes, while learning about the Gila River Indian Community’s ranching heritage. Further east, in Santa Ana Pueblo, New Mexico, the Tamaya Resort offers unforgettable horseback riding along the Rio Grande, with trails that wind through cottonwood forests and mesas steeped in Pueblo history.

  These destinations highlight the powerful combination of hospitality and adventure. By offering access to outdoor recreation alongside luxury stays, tribal hotels and resorts are creating memorable experiences that encourage longer visits, repeat travel, and a deeper appreciation for the cultures that call these lands home. For travelers who crave both comfort and connection, these properties prove that the journey outdoors can begin right at the resort’s doorstep.

  This article was written by AIT and published in the 2025 Fall issue of the Tribal Gaming and Hospitality magazine.
  
• 11/07/2023 14:40

  Alaska’s Wild Kitchen at Icy Strait Point

  

  Icy Strait Point, a remote Alaskan destination known for its rugged natural beauty, has a new culinary gem that promises to delight foodies and adventure enthusiasts - Alaska's Wild Kitchen Foodie Experience. Take the opportunity to savor the flavors of this wild corner of Alaska and enjoy a unique and memorable gastronomic journey.

  Sustainable and Locally Sourced Cuisine: The Wild Kitchen's commitment to using locally sourced and sustainable ingredients is commendable. Each dish tells a story of the region's natural abundance. From fresh-caught seafood to foraged wild herbs, the menu is a celebration of the Alaskan wilderness. The reinvention of traditional Alaskan dishes with a modern twist is a pleasant surprise, while the chefs highlight the purity and richness of the ingredients.

  Innovative Flavors: The culinary team at Alaska's Wild Kitchen has a talent for creating innovative and mouthwatering dishes. The wild-caught salmon is a standout, prepared with a delicate balance of seasonings that accentuate its natural flavors. The Alaskan king crab legs are equally delightful, with a garlic butter sauce that is simply divine.

  Scenic Dining: The Wild Kitchen restaurant's location is an experience. Set in a beautiful wilderness with panoramic views of the surrounding forests and mountains, diners can enjoy their meals in the heart of nature. The outdoor seating area is a wonderful addition, and during the right season, you can dine under the warmth of the Alaskan sun or witness the Northern Lights in the evening.

  Hands-On Experience: The Interactive Cooking Class at Wild Kitchen is an excellent choice for those who want to dive into cooking with a local twist. The chefs are knowledgeable, passionate, and patient, making the experience enjoyable and informative. You get to work with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, which adds to the authenticity of the dishes.

  Traditional and Modern Cuisine: The class covers a range of Alaskan cuisine, from traditional recipes passed down through generations to modern, innovative dishes showcasing the region's culinary evolution. You will learn how to prepare dishes like smoked salmon, halibut and reinvented classics like Alaskan crab mac 'n' cheese. The opportunity to experiment with such diverse recipes is a highlight.

  Educational Component: In addition to hands-on cooking, the class provides valuable insights into the importance of sustainable, locally sourced ingredients. You will learn about the rich history of Alaskan cuisine and the cultural significance of certain dishes, deepening your appreciation for the food being prepared.

  Small Group Size: The class size is intentionally kept small, ensuring that every participant receives individualized attention from the chef. This creates a comfortable and inclusive environment for learners of all skill levels, from novice cooks to seasoned chefs.

  Tasting Your Creations: The best part of the Interactive Cooking Class is enjoying the delicious dishes you've prepared. After cooking, you get to savor your creations, and the opportunity to taste your handiwork in such a scenic setting is immensely satisfying.

  Guided Exploration: Walking tours of herbs and plants at Icy Strait Point are typically led by knowledgeable guides who are well-versed in the local flora. These guides provide valuable insights into the ecosystem and the traditional uses of various plants. The tours take place in the stunning Alaskan wilderness, where lush, old-growth forests, meadows will surround you, and often have breathtaking views of the coastline and mountains.

  Plant Identification and Edibles: As you walk through the forest, your guide will point out various herbs, plants, and trees that are native to the region. They'll explain the different species, their characteristics, and their significance in the local ecosystem. Medicinal plants and herbs for health and healing are also part of the discovery. Depending on the season, you might have the chance to taste some edible plants, such as wild berries or other vegetation. Your guide will ensure that any sampling is done sustainably and responsibly.

  
  

  Alaska's Wild Kitchen Foodie Experience is a remarkable addition to the Icy Strait Point attractions. The dedication to local, sustainable, and innovative cuisine and the breathtaking natural surroundings make it a must-visit for food enthusiasts. The overall experience of savoring Alaskan flavors in the heart of the wilderness is an adventure for the taste buds and the soul.
  
• 09/11/2023 17:14

  INDIGI-LIT! Find Yourself in Indian Country - in an Indigenous-Owned Bookstore

  

  How will you decide where to go next?  What part of the country are you going to explore?  Independent, locally-owned bookstores are always best for finding just the right thing to read.  Not only great places to visit, but Native-owned bookstores are also the best resource to find authentic writing and delightful browsing for books by and about Native American people, places and experiences.  

  Make a bookstore your first stop in your next adventure so you can plan your best journey.  Find a good read that will inform you about Native places and historical events or pick a work of Native fiction to read while you travel through Native communities that will help you understand the culture and special experiences that insiders know about.

  There is something in the pages of books for every traveler, whether you are a history buff, art lover, food fanatic, or looking to explore the quiet forests. 

  Preserving and sustaining Native American stories and knowledge of culture and art is at the heart of the work going on in Native communities around the country. Native authors and illustrators are getting published more and more in a growing market, not only because there are new writers, but because publishers are recognizing that works telling diverse stories are being sought after. It should be no surprise that there is a new group of Native American booksellers whose mission is to share contemporary Native American literature on their shelves with a new generation of readers, both within and outside the Indigenous community. 

  HERE ARE SOME AMAZING NATIVE-OWNED BOOKSTORES YOU CAN’T MISS!

  

  Birchbark Books, Minneapolis, MN

  Bird Cage Books, Rapid City SD

  Books & Burrow, Pittsburg, KS

  Libelula Books, Waterloo, IA

  Nã Mea Hawai'i, Honolulu, HI

  Red Salmon Arts, Austin TX

  Talking Leaves, Cherokee NC

  AND ONLINE NATIVE BOOKSELLERS

  Check out Eleanor’s Books. 

  Don’t miss A Tribe Called Geek! Formerly Red Planet.

  And this selection of diverse literature at Paperbacks & Frybread.

  Native American literature today is an exciting and growing genre encompassing fiction and nonfiction.  No longer are books printed by and about Native people mostly historical, as in the past, but fine art collections, children’s books, scholarly works, young adult stories, poetry, novels, graphic novels and comic books are available. Books in Native languages are starting to proliferate.

  Native literary festivals and poetry gatherings are picking up steam around the country and well worth checking out if they are taking place while you are visiting Native communities. Contemporary writers are engaging and eloquent, telling compelling stories, often accompanied by impactful artwork. Reading some of these works is a great way to understand the past as well as serve as an entree to visiting Native communities. Visitors can get a more accurate and respectful depiction of the complexities of Native identities and narratives, even in a fictional story. A good book written by a Native voice informs thoughtful tourists and reminds them that Native storytelling is still a vibrant part of living culture.

  Project 562 Changing the Way We See Native America, which came out this year from Matika Wilbur (Swinomish and Tulalip), is a photographic celebration of contemporary Native life, featuring portraits and interviews of people from all 562 federally recognized tribes.  There are 574 recognized tribes today, and this book serves as a great way to meet Native people where they are, countering archaic stereotypes and opening the door to understanding the richness, creativity and diversity of Native communities.  We can’t crisscross the nation as Wilbur did on her astounding tour of Native America, but you can’t beat it for inspiration to go visit some of these varied people and places!

  LITERARY EVENTS

  Last year the James Welch Literary Festival got off to a roaring start in Montana, and we hope to see more of the same as it moves into a biannual schedule.

  At the University of Washington American Indian Studies program in Seattle, check out the annual Sacred Breath: Indigenous Writing and Storytelling Series. 

  IN NA PO Indigenous Nations Poets are all over the map!  Check out the latest events on their calendar 

  Check out the bookstores for in-store events including readings and book signings!

  RECOMMENDED READS

  This list could go on and on as new works are coming out every month, but we thought we’d give you a taste with a few links to some favorite reads from around the country. The staff members of the First Nations Development Institute have compiled a list of what they consider to be essential reading for anyone interested in the Native American experience.

  Our nation’s first Native Poet Laureate, Joy Harjo, made sharing Native writing part of her project during her residency, and you can still access “Living Nations Living Words” Harjo’s curated collection.

  Some more recent notes from the blog Book Riot.

  Check out what’s going on with the NDNgirls Book Club

  SPECIAL READINGS FOR KIDS THIS YEAR!

  

  We Are Still Here! Native American Truths Everyone Should Know by Traci Sorell (Cherokee Nation) published by Charlesbridge Press, 2021.   The title says it all for this award-winning book.

  REMEMBER by Joy Harjo (Mvskoke Nation), illustrated by Caldecott award winner Michaela Goade,(Tlingit) is a book for children of all ages to treasure, with lush illustrations accompanying one of Harjo’s most beloved poems.  Published by Penguin Random House, 2023

  Bowwow Powwow by Brenda Child (Ojibwe) Minnesota Historical Society Press, 2018 This joyous book has it all.

  Don’t forget to check out the amazing book selections inside the shop of your favorite Tribal Museum and Cultural Center.  Always shop from your favorite Native bookshop!  
  
• 07/19/2023 20:54

  Indian Country Food is "Taking to the Trucks"!

  Working together this blog post includes work from Guest Blogger, Molly Roe, Sweetgrass Trading Co.and the AIANTA Agritourism Specialist. We wanted to share work so that the list could be more complete. 

  You might be surprised to know how many Native-owned food trucks and buses there are across the United States. From Minnesota to New Mexico to California, these spots are scattered throughout the U.S., offering Indigenous-inspired dishes, fry bread, soups and drinks! We put together a comprehensive list so you can refer to it on your next family vacation or road trip. Did we miss any? Let us know.

  Tatanka Truck  

  The Tatanka Truck features mushroom, bison or turkey Indigenous tacos. The food truck opened summer of 2022 and is located just outside of the Sioux Chef Sean Sherman’s restaurant, Owamni. According to the Tatanka Truck website, the food truck features “regional Indigenous Foods from the MN and Dakota Territories. We prioritize buying our foods from local Native Producers. Our foods represent the flavors, histories, and cultures of the land we stand on.” 

  Off the Rez Café and Food Truck 

  This cafe features classic tacos, wild rice bowls and salads using fresh, local ingredients. Off the Rez Cafe is located in the Burke Museum at the University of Washington in Seattle. The cafe also features Seattle’s first Native food truck that can be found at various locations throughout the week (check the schedule here). The food truck offers tacos, burgers, fry bread and salads. Like them on Facebook.

  
  

  

  NAICCO Cuisine 

  This food truck in Columbus, Ohio, was founded by The Native American Indian Center of Central Ohio (NAICCO) in an effort to bring more public awareness to indigenous foods. The menu includes fare such as “NDN” tacos, fry bread, taco bowls and buffalo burgers. Visit the NAICCO Cuisine web page for schedules and locations. 

  DGP Gourmet Fry Bread

  DGP Gourmet Fry Bread in Glendale, AZ offers hungry customers a variety of sweet and savory selections of delicious Fry Bread. Try the Beans & Cheese, the Red Chile with Beef, or even the Chocolate Fudge Fry Bread! Follow them on Facebook.

  Strawberry Coffee 

  Strawberry Coffee in Phoenix, AZ is described as “an exploration of sweetness, ritual gathering spaces and everyday encounters.” Owned by Catherine Zingg (Ho-Chunk), the bus features specialty drinks that tie in Native heritage. For example, maple syrup from the Passamaquoddy Tribe and local coffee from Xanadu are among the many traditional ingredients featured here.  Find her on Instagram.

  

  Big Foot Fry Bread 

  This Northern California-based food truck features a spin on the classic fry bread dish. The Rez Dog is one of their most popular items – a massive, frybread battered hot dog. The truck also dishes up Indian tacos and Native shortbread. You can learn more and see a schedule on their Facebook page.  

  Yapopup: Indigenous Soul Food 

  Also located in New Mexico, Yapopup prides itself on offering indigenous soul food and comfort foods. One of the most popular items on the menu is pueblo birria tacos featuring Coahuila chiles and New Mexican-grown red chiles. Owner Ryan Rainbird Taylor hails from the Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo. 

  Ryan’s Rezipes

  Ryan’s Rezipes is a food truck and catering service based out of Tulalip, Washington. The menu includes classics like pulled pork nachos and street tacos, in addition to specialties such as lemon shrimp bowls, loco moco and sockeye salmon sandwiches. Visit the website for a weekly schedule/location.

  Trickster Tacos, LLC

  Trickster Tacos is located in Minneapolis and features a variety of Indian Tacos in flavors like traditional beef, key lime chicken and vegetarian soy chorizo. Visit their Facebook page linked above for their weekly schedule and locations.

  

  Manko: Native American Fusion 

  Under the leadership of Chef Ray Naranjo, Manko: Native American Fusion has three locations in New Mexico: Espanola, Albuquerque and Los Alamos. The truck features typical Native American comfort foods with a modern twist, such as buffalo green chile bacon burgers, cactus tempura turkey sandwiches and pueblo enchiladas.  

  Morris Navajo Grill

  Located in Albuquerque, NM, this food truck offers favorites such as mutton stew, Navajo burgers, frybread and steamed corn stew. The truck is open on Sundays only and hours can be found on their Facebook page!

  Val’s Frybread

  Valene Hatathlie, owner of Val’s Frybread, not only sells delicious frybread mix but also runs a food stand to share the deliciousness with the Phoenix community. You can get traditional fry bread, steamed corn stew and Navajo burgers at this food truck. A list of upcoming locations and events can be found on the business’s website.

  

  Over The Moon

  A member of the Pueblo Cochiti Tribe, Melinda Arquero launched her Indigenous Food Truck in 2021. It was a rough start, but she's in the game now. Find her on Instagram.

  Pow'Waw Food Truck

  Powwaw food truck is presenting Native American Cuisine to the North Idaho area. Food that was indigenous to North America, as a result, the Native American cuisine is naturally healthy and delicious. North Idaho and Eastern Washington are surrounded by many tribes but unfortunately, true Native American cuisine is underrepresented. With Pow'Waw, they bring delicious food and a great representation of the culture to you. Find them on Facebook.

  Three Sisters Frybread

  A mom-daughter-owned food truck in Trinidad, CO, Three Sisters Frybread serves delicious and authentic Native American cuisine learned from their heritage. Among their many dishes, they feature homemade frybread with Wojapi as well as Indian tacos. Make sure to stop by and give them a try!

  The Fry Bread Truck

  The newest Fry Bread Truck to roll through Arizona serving contemporary fried dough with a Phoenicia. This is the Ultra-Fry-Bread Food Truck. There are so many variations and flavors and new choices added too. Find them on Facebook too.

  Tocabe Catering and Food Truck

  Tocabe is currently the only American Indian-owned and operated restaurant in Metro Denver specializing in Native American cuisine. Our co-owners, Matt Chandra and Ben Jacobs, were inspired to open Tocabe by Grayhorse: An American Indian Eatery, which was established in 1989 by the Jacobs family. As part of the Osage Nation, Tocabe utilizes our American Indian roots to help educate people on indigenous culture.

  Emerson Fry Bread  

  This Phoenix-based food truck features classic Native foods with a modern twist. Choose from a Navajo burger, Mutton sandwich, or steamed corn stew and wash it down with a prickly pear lemonade! Visit their Facebook page for daily locations and specials. 

  Yellowman Fry Bread

  Yellowman Fry Bread serves Diné (Navajo) Tacos, Fry Bread, Navajo Burgers and much more. Find them in AZ and on Facebook.

  If we missed you and you want your food truck listed, contact Kelli at khepler@aianta.org
  
• 04/04/2023 20:23

  Native Art Skates Into Spring

  Three cheers for the United States Postal Service for again selecting Native American artwork to grace new stamps in 2023.

  Two years ago, the USPS issued the Raven Story stamp, created by Tlingit Athabaskan Alaska artist Rico Worl. When it was issued, Worl said, “I hope this stamp inspires people to learn more about Alaska Native and Native American cultures as both rich traditional people and modern innovative and creative people.“

  Indeed, his mixed modern and traditional formline designed Raven was inspiring and you might want to hop down to your local post office to see if you can still purchase some to adorn your next birthday card to your auntie or the payment on your electric bill.

  This year, the Art of the Skateboard stamp series showcases the vibrant artwork that adorns the skate decks of four United States artists, two of whom are Native American. Di’Orr Greenwood is a Navajo artist from northern Arizona whose design features the colors of the rising or setting sun, framed by eagle feathers on either end. Crystal Worl, Rico Worl’s sister, is a Tlingit Athabaskan artist whose vibrant skateboard designs sport a stunning blue salmon design. Congratulations to you both!         

  

                                                                                  

  We were able to visit with Crystal this week before launching the stamps and learned a lot more about her and her work. “Rico and I used to longboard and then started painting on them.  We wanted to make the art affordable, and it was also neat to see young people excited about their identity, in a sport that gets them moving, gets them outside”. She noted that it wasn’t always easy to find recreation for urban Natives, but “pavement is everywhere” and she really loved the agility, balance and mind-power required to be a great skateboarder. Painting on them turned out to be “a really cool art surface and now our designs are on basketballs, skis and snowboards.”

  

  
  

  Formline is the word used to identify a Pacific Northwest Coast visual art style popular among Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian Tribes. The roots of this work were passed down from one generation to another. Crystal said she learned from her grandparents and extended family “who made sure we know who we were, how to fillet a fish, hunt a seal and know the art. They also emphasized the importance of going to college.” After Crystal’s formal study at the Institute of American Indian Art, she studied with Canadian Haida carver Robert Davidson to learn the ABCs of formline, their visual language. 

  Today, you can appreciate this rich art tradition by putting these beautiful stamps on your mail, and if you are in Alaska, you can see Crystal Worl’s artwork on murals around Juneau and Anchorage. If she is in town, you can make an appointment to visit the studio and add some serious artwork to your collection. You can also find the work from Trickster Studio at museum shops and galleries throughout  Alaska, Washington and British Columbia, Canada  

  
  

  Please share our post and when you do, tag us @nativeamerica.travel (Instagram & Twitter), NativeAmerica.Travel (Facebook), and use #SupportNativeArtists #DiscoverNativeAmerica #AIANTA #WeAreStillHere #NativeAmericaTravel

  
  

  
  

  
  
  
• 02/04/2023 19:03

  A Sweet Legacy

  A Sweet Legacy

  By Samantha Phillips for Forest Fresh Alaska

  
  

  ---

  The kitchen was clearly one of Grandma’s favorite places. One day I asked her to teach me some Tlingit words.

  Holding up an apple from the kitchen counter, she smiled, “X’aax’.” She couldn’t remember many more.

  
  

  
  

  During the month known for love, one of the people I remember most is my grandmother. She was easily the world’s sweetest grandma, maybe because she was born on Valentines Day.

  Grandma Genevieve, who we called Grandma Jennie, had the best cheeks in town. Her high cheekbones gave way to the soft, smooth flesh of her cheeks. As she smiled (which was always), her cheeks would raise her glasses up, making her countenance all the happier. My little sister wrote a poem about her cheeks one time, referring to them as apples. Many of her grandchildren inherited those signature squishy cheeks. Thank you Grandma. That’s not the only thing she passed down though. She left us a legacy of love that can best be displayed by the sharing of meals and traditions that will live on as long as we, her children and grandchildren, continue to carry them.

  A Tlingit woman, coming from a matrilineal society, my Grandma was matriarch to her large family. With nine children and dozens of grandchildren and great grandchildren, she lovingly tended to anyone who made the time to visit her. In my eyes, Grandma possessed the art of turning nothing into something. She could multiply the little she had by sharing. On any given Saturday that meant dipping into her crock of sourdough starter to make her famous, plate-sized sourdough pancakes and hosting one grandkid at a time at her tiny table. News traveled fast at the mention of her coveted potato donuts and family appeared out of the woodworks to her door to enjoy them hot and fresh. The love she poured into feeding her family was just one extension of Grandma’s sweet and tender heart.

  One Christmas, when food was scarce for her family, Grandma secretly stashed away special ingredients to surprise her family. After eating modestly for quite some time, they couldn’t believe their eyes when they awoke on Christmas morning to two elegant fruitcakes, candied cherries gleaming on top. In true form, she had created something out of seemingly nothing. Nearly sixty years later, that Christmas is still my mom’s most memorable. Her eyes sparkle as she savors (understatement!) fruitcake during the holidays. To watch her relive those memories Grandma etched in her heart is a gift in itself. A testament of Grandma’s love.

  The kitchen was clearly one of Grandma’s favorite places. One day I asked her to teach me some Tlingit words. Holding up an apple from the kitchen counter, she smiled, “X’aax’.” She couldn’t remember many more.

  As I learned of her forced assimilation, the atrocities she suffered in her days spent at a residential boarding school, I quickly realized her Tlingit words were taken from her. Her customs, ceremonies, and rituals that she knew, all taken from her. She was left with nothing.

  With scars covering her back and her hearing loss from the abuse, somehow Grandma remembered her role. She would lead her family, serve her people, all with the sweetest spirit. That is a big something.

  We, her daughters and granddaughters seek ways to serve our families and communities with meals and other gift, as we artfully turn nothing into something, just as Grandma did.

  From distinctive cheeks, to thoughtfully prepared food, to never losing love, Grandma’s legacy lives on. May these recipes inspired by Grandma Jennie remind you to share love, no matter the hardship, and to always keep your sweetness.

  
  

  King Salmon Patties    Recipe

  
  

  Luscious Alaskan Truffles    Recipe

  
  

  Thank you to Mary Goddard and Samantha Phillips from Forest Fresh Alaska for sharing this Blog.
  
• 01/14/2023 04:35

  Shop Native

  Now that the holidays are behind us - - oh wait, they are only just starting for 2023! Now that we are waking up to the New Year and remembering the gifts that were a hit, let me introduce you to our Shop Native page with NativeAmerican.Travel. A place where you will find unique, one-of-a-kind items for your loved ones, besties, and yourself all year long!

  We encourage our artists, galleries, museums, and food artists to keep making what they make. They are working on great authentic Native-made gifts and products you can explore effortlessly. At AIANTA we love sharing talented artists and their work with you.

  We are adding new artists and products regularly, so check the page whenever you need something different. Find something distinctive or handmade. You want your gifts to remind people that you think they are special and deserve a gift that reflects your relationship with them.

  We make sure that the items are from recognized tribes and tribal members. We want to support the efforts of Native American crafters and their Tribes. This is a way that we all can support small businesses and provide diversity in shopping experiences.

  
  

  
  

  
  

  To start shopping today, go to Shop Native.

  If you are an artist, crafter, or museum gallery, contact Melanie LaBorwit, Native Arts and Culture Coordinator to learn about getting your listing on Shop Native. e | mlaborwit@aianta.org

  If you are a maker or artisan food producer, reach out to Kelli Hepler, Agritourism Specialist to learn about getting your listing on Shop Native.  e | khepler@aianta.org

  We look forward to seeing your beautiful artworks or noshing on your latest tidbits. "Travel virtually to remarkable places and shop with special merchants!"
  
• 01/18/2022 15:58

  Art of the City

  Art of the City is seeking Native Tribes across Turtle Island to participate in the next Art of the City docu-series “This is Indian Country!”

  Capturing on film art, dance, music, culinary arts, story telling and more! Thorn's experience as a gallery owner and host will allow the viewer to experience Native culture from coast to coast and tribe to tribe, bringing awareness to the first people of North America.

  Ruth-Ann Thorn, who is of the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians has taken her advocacy for artists, particularly Native American artists, to a multimedia platform. Thorn’s docu-series titled “Art of the City” began as a project on Facebook Live. It’s now viewable on FNX network, GlewedTV, on PBS affiliates and on Thorn’s YouTube channel

  Please contact Ecgalleries@gmail.com for filming schedule and submission to be featured in a episode.