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Painted Hills

Native American Heritage

photo: Tamástslikt Cultural Institute
Written by Oregon Media

Native American Heritage

Interior of the Tamástslikt Cultural Institute tamÁstslikt cultural institute

Tamástslikt Cultural Institute was built by the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Reservation to preserve the Native American heritage, culture and history of the Cayuse, Umatilla and Walla Walla Tribes and present their story to the world. The state of the art facility showcases regional tribal history, the tribes’ present day affairs and plans for the future through interactive exhibits, Coyote Theater, events and programs. In addition to quarterly exhibitions on timely topics, the permanent displays have recently been upgraded and other improvements made to further enhance the experience for visitors of all ages who come to enjoy an immersive education. Shopping at The Museum Store and dining at Kinship Café round out the visit.

a meaningful souvenir

indigenous arts for sale

Located on the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Reservation, Crow’s Shadow is a nonprofit contemporary printmaking studio that fosters indigenous art. Admire and purchase fine art prints at the onsite print gallery.

The Pendleton Center for the Arts displays regional works for sale, and provides space for the creation of arts. Desert Arts Council and Inland Northwest Musicians are two more organizations that bring art and culture to the greater county and its visitors.

Native American Heritage displayed in the Pow Wow Pow Wow

Wildhorse Resort & Casino is the largest resort in Eastern Oregon with a casino, 200+ hotel rooms, a cineplex, a nightclub, restaurants, a golf course, RV park and concert hall. The resort also hosts an annual Pow Wow in July, a celebration of Native American heritage through dance.