While Florida is known for its pristine beaches and endless sunshine, it also boasts a rich history dating back to the Native American tribes that settled here so many years ago. These cultures have been preserved and presented throughout many historic sites scattered around the Sunshine State where visitors can learn more about their culture and ways of life. Experience Florida’s unique history and discover interesting artifacts at one of these Native American museums and parks.
Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum, Clewiston
The drive to Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki is worth the visit alone, as you’ll pass stunning landscapes and natural Florida beauty. Loosely translated to “a place to learn”, this modern museum in the heart of the Everglades on the Big Cypress Seminole Indian Reservation holds over 180,000 unique artifacts and archival items, and experiences that go in-depth with the Seminole people and their rich cultural and historical ties to Florida. Just across the mile-long boardwalk, you’ll find a cypress dome and Living Village where artisans from the Seminole tribe sell traditional beadwork, wood carvings, and basketry.
Florida Museum of Natural History, Gainesville
A top attraction in Gainesville, the Florida Museum of Natural History offers a chance for visitors to explore multiple exhibits and artifacts dedicated to the history and culture of Native Americans that have inhabited the Sunshine State. A highlight of the museum includes unique displays, such as a full-scale model of a historical meeting between influential leaders at the Lake Jackson Mound in Tallahassee and North Georgia’s Etowah Mounds and another full-scale model that details the interior of the Calusa chief’s house.
Miccosukee Indian Village & Museum, Miami
Located West of Miami in the heart of the Everglades you’ll feel like you entered a different world as you explore the Miccosukee Indian Village and Museum. There are a ton of activities in this area, like watching an alligator presentation by a tribal member, airboat tours of a typical hammock-style native camp, and a plethora of vibrant displays and demonstrations of traditional artistry ranging from woodcarving, patchwork, beadwork, basket weaving, and doll making. Of course, don’t miss the museum that is filled with artifacts and paintings that highlight the Miccosukee way of life.
Crystal River Archaeological State Park, Crystal River
This National Historic Landmark is a glimpse into what Florida was 2,500 years ago. A 61-acre, pre-Columbian, Native American site that was occupied for nearly 1500 years, this area is a six-mound complex that was used as a ceremonial center for Native Americans. Researchers believe that up to 7,500 Native Americans traveled great distances to bury their loved ones and conduct trade. Don’t miss the visitor center and museum, as you can learn about this area in more depth through interesting exhibits and artifacts such as traditional pottery, arrow points, and jewelry.
Safety Harbor Museum and Cultural Center, Safety Harbor
Situated near Tampa you’ll find a quaint history and archeology museum that packs a lot for its small size with over 12,000 years of history displayed. Here you’ll find informative workshops, cultural events, and fascinating displays and artifacts such as fossils, projectile points, shell tools, beads, and pottery found in the area. Discover why early settlers were attracted to “where the healing waters flow” and learn more about Florida’s first people.
Mound Key Archaeological State Park, Estero
An unabridged island only accessible by boat, Mound Key Archaeological State Park is a pristine piece of land framed by forests and mangrove trees in Estero Bay. While the landscape is stunning, the history behind it is even more impressive. Formerly the capital of Calusa civilization, the prehistoric Native Americans that settled here were a non-agricultural hunting and gathering chiefdom that dominated Florida waters for over 2,000 years. Explore the interpretive displays along the trail that circle the width of the island and learn about this former ceremonial center.
Weedon Island Preserve Cultural & Natural History Center, St. Petersburg
Part of the Weedon Island Preserve, the Weedon Island Cultural and Natural History Center is an archeological site that focuses on the cultural history of the preserve and the Weeden Island Culture that resided in Florida around 200 A.D to 900 A.D. In addition to traditional pottery and shell mounds, here they found a 40-foot canoe that researchers believed to be a Manasota artifact, dating back 1,1000 years ago. It is also worth exploring the stunning kayak trails, wildlife viewing, hiking trails, and 45-foot observation tower.
Hillsborough River State Park, Tampa
One of the first Florida state parks in history, Hillsborough River State Park and the Fort Foster State Historic Site are historical landmarks. Constructed from the Second Seminole War, you can join Ranger-led tours and get a glimpse into life at Fort Foster. Browse through the 100 displayed artifacts and you’ll find a comprehensive view of both sides of the Seminole nation and US military conflict. On special occasions, you can watch re-enactment performances and interact with the “soldiers”.
Billie Swamp Safari, Clewiston
Explore 2,200 acres of the pristine Big Cypress Seminole Indian Reservation on a once-in-a-lifetime airboat ride or swamp buggy tour with Billie Swamp Safari, where you can learn about the diverse Everglades and tribal culture and get an interesting and informative introduction into the Seminole Tribe of Florida. Perfect for entertaining the whole family, make sure not to miss the Swamp Critter show at Fort Critter and the Venomous Snake Show inside the Herpetarium Theater.
