Discovering Alaska's Heritage: Exhibits at the University of Alaska Museum of the North

For those visiting Fairbanks for the first time, or even for locals seeking an enriching experience, the University of Alaska Museum of the North offers a captivating journey through the state's vastness, natural wonders, and diverse cultures. The museum provides perspective to the state, its vastness, and its natural and cultural diversity. Here, almost everything focuses on Alaska and the ‘North.’ A visit promises to deepen your understanding of Alaska and its history.

Architectural Marvel and Welcoming Atmosphere

The museum's architecture is noteworthy. The building's exterior features sculptures and totem poles, while the interior exudes a warm and inviting ambiance. The curves of the museum’s architecture entice ravens to come and play in the wind currents along its eaves.

Diverse Exhibits: A Journey Through Alaska

This museum has two floors and contains two main exhibit halls along with a few smaller ones. The museum houses a diverse array of exhibits, with the "Rose Berry Alaska Art Gallery" and the "Gallery of Alaska" as centerpieces. The Rose Berry Alaska Art Gallery displays traditional and modern Alaskan artwork, including photographs, such as an Ansel Adams photograph of Denali. The Gallery of Alaska is subdivided into regions of Alaska, containing historical artifacts.

Art and Culture

The Rose Berry Alaska Art Gallery showcases a vast and diverse collection of Alaskan art, spanning thousands of years. Visitors can explore intricate ivory carvings, traditional Alaska Native masks, and contemporary paintings and sculptures that reflect the unique spirit and landscapes of the state. This artistic journey provides insight into the cultural narratives, spiritual beliefs, and daily lives of Alaska's people. The juxtaposition of ancient craftsmanship with modern artistic expression highlights the enduring creativity and resilience of Alaskan artists. It's a vibrant testament to the region's rich cultural heritage. This seal gut rain parka was painstakingly made to be beautiful yet functional. Molly Lee talks about the incredible detail of Eskimo clothing. A description of the gallery, Our Own Perspectives. Welcome to the Living Room. A description of Southwest Alaska. A description of the decoration styles used by the earliest inhabitants of St. The crescent bladed knife called ulu is a traditional woman’s knife.

Natural History and Paleontology

The museum also features exhibits on the aurora borealis and a small Hubble Space Telescope exhibit. The scientific and local paleontology exhibits are captivating. Blue Babe is one of our most popular exhibits. This tour describes our Woolly Mammoth and Mastodon exhibit.

One of the most striking exhibits at the University of Alaska Museum of the North is 'Blue Babe,' a remarkably preserved steppe bison mummy. Dating back approximately 36,000 years, this ancient creature was discovered in permafrost, which acted as a natural freezer, preserving its remains with incredible detail. Seeing 'Blue Babe' offers a tangible connection to Alaska's Pleistocene era, a time when megafauna roamed the land. The exhibit provides context about the Ice Age environment and the scientific research involved in studying such ancient specimens. It's a powerful reminder of the deep history embedded within the Alaskan landscape. The world's only restored Ice Age steppe bison mummy is a highlight.

The Place Where You Go To Listen

A unique feature is the 'Place Where You Go to Listen,' designed by John Luther Adams, a Grammy and Pulitzer Prize-winning composer. It’s like a little meditation room with ambient light and sound that changes based on the Sun, the Moon, the aurora, and earthquakes, all from real-time monitoring. This exhibit is designed as a contemplative space where visitors can engage with sound and light in an ever-changing environment. It's an opportunity to step away from the visual stimulation of other exhibits and immerse oneself in a more abstract, auditory experience. Many visitors find it to be a profoundly calming and memorable part of their visit, offering a different way to connect with the museum's themes.

Dynamic Aurora and Winter Shows

There are some shows available for an additional small fee. I was able to see all the shows playing easily on the same day. I’m not sure if this is always the case. If you visit in the summer, definitely see the Dynamic Aurora show since you won’t get to see the lights in person. Don’t expect IMAX® quality sound and light; they’re just some fun short films. In summer, the museum offers two auditorium shows: Dynamic Aurora and Winter, both offered several times a day. Dynamic Aurora captures the beauty of the northern lights and explains this high-latitude phenomena from scientific and cultural perspectives. Winter gives visitors insight into our longest season.

Museum Information

The entrance fee is reasonable. The gift shop has a wide variety of Alaskan paraphernalia, including jewelry, masks, wall decorations, and a fantastic selection of books. However, the cafe doesn’t offer a whole lot, so I wouldn’t recommend going in hungry. At $9-$16 entrance fee per day, the museum won’t kill your wallet (although the gift shop could if you find the right things).

Tips for Families

Kids may not find this museum to be particularly exciting. There isn’t anything specifically geared toward children, although there are a lot of bones and stuffed bears. If you ask at the front desk, there is an activity sheet available (recommended grades 4-6). It looks like a neat little scavenger hunt; I’m going to try it next time I’m there. The University of Alaska Museum of the North is a fantastic destination for families. Children will be fascinated by the 'Blue Babe' bison mummy and the Arctic dinosaur fossils. The wildlife exhibits with taxidermied animals are also a big hit. Consider dedicating extra time to the natural history sections. While the museum has a cafe, reviews suggest it's a bit pricey and the food is just okay, so packing snacks or planning for a meal outside the museum might be a good idea for families.

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For Art and Culture Enthusiasts

For those passionate about art and culture, the museum offers an extensive collection of Alaska Native art, including intricate carvings and masks, as well as a broad spectrum of contemporary Alaskan art. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the historical context behind these pieces and understand their significance within Alaskan society. The museum's architecture itself is also a work of art, providing a stunning backdrop for the collections.

For Science and History Buffs

This museum is a treasure trove for anyone interested in Alaska's natural history and scientific research. From the 36,000-year-old bison mummy to exhibits on Arctic research and paleontology, there's a wealth of information to absorb. Learn about the geological formations, the unique ecosystems, and the scientific endeavors that have shaped our understanding of the Arctic. The museum effectively blends scientific data with engaging visual displays.

Planning Your Visit

Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds. The museum is a popular spot, and arriving early can help you explore exhibits like the 36,000-year-old bison mummy without feeling rushed. Allocate at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the diverse exhibits, from Alaska Native cultures to Arctic dinosaurs. Don't miss 'The Place Where You Go To Listen' for a unique sensory experience. Plan for at least 2-3 hours to explore all the fascinating exhibits.

Essential Information

Ample parking is usually available at the museum. Comfortable shoes are recommended, as you'll be doing a lot of walking to see everything. The museum is located on the University of Alaska Fairbanks campus. You can drive there, and parking is generally available. Public transportation options might be limited, so checking local bus routes in Fairbanks is advisable. Driving is the most straightforward method. Taxis or rideshare services are also options.

Ticket prices can vary, but general admission for adults is around $22 USD for foreigners, with potential discounts for seniors and military personnel. Booking tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons or for special events, is recommended to ensure entry and potentially save time. Museum hours can vary seasonally. The museum typically offers discounts for seniors, military personnel, and sometimes for students. It's advisable to present your valid student ID at the ticket counter or check the museum's admission policy online.

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Photography Tips

The museum's architecture itself is very photogenic. Inside, 'Blue Babe,' the Alaska Native art displays, and 'The Place Where You Go To Listen' offer unique photographic opportunities. Typically, flash photography is discouraged or prohibited in museums to protect artifacts and artworks. Always look for signage or ask museum staff if unsure. Drone usage is generally restricted in and around university campuses and public buildings. It's best to check with the university's policies and local regulations before flying a drone. A versatile camera with good low-light capabilities is recommended, especially for exhibits like 'The Place Where You Go To Listen.' A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the architecture and larger displays. Photography of art exhibits is usually allowed for personal use, but it's wise to confirm with museum staff, as some special exhibitions might have different rules.

The Bowhead Whale Display

The museum attracts more than 85,000 visitors annually. UAMN’s mission combines research and teaching, and it boasts one of the largest marine mammal collections in the world, even larger than the Smithsonian Institution National Museum of Natural History. The 42-foot skeleton, which is the length of a bowling lane and weighs close to one ton, also required structural modifications to the ceiling of the museum's lobby. Mounting the skeleton to the steel armature and suspending it from the lobby ceiling took months of work, culminating in the grand opening in June, 2021. When visitors first enter the museum, they are immediately greeted and awed by the size and beauty of this specimen." Thanks to its placement in the multi-story lobby, visitors to the museum can view the skeleton from above, below, and from the right side. The skeleton is accompanied by interpretive panels that emphasize the important role bowhead whales play in both Alaska Native culture and marine ecosystems. Druckenmiller delved into the significance of the bowhead whale, sharing that "bowhead whales are denizens of the Arctic Ocean and are a keystone species of marine ecosystems. They are equally important to the spiritual and cultural health of Inupiat people, who rely on bowheads as a critical food resource.

More Than Just a Museum

The University of Alaska Museum of the North is more than just a repository of artifacts; it's a dynamic center for research, education, and cultural engagement. Located on the campus of the University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF), it serves as the only research and teaching museum in Alaska accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. The museum opened a new wing in 2005, which itself has become an architectural icon for the state and a must-see for Alaska visitors.

A Brief History

The museum was mandated as part of the original legislation establishing the university in 1917. In 1924, Charles E. Bunnell, then-president of the university, directed Otto Geist to collect items for display in the museum. In the early 1960s to 1980 it was the home to the museum, before moving to the West Ridge of the campus.

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