If you’re searching for school tours of America that bring learning about Indigenous history and culture to real life, there are several destinations that provide the perfect platform for life changing learning experiences. These locations give students the chance to directly witness the sacred lands, practices, and history of Indigenous cultures, and better understand the struggles and resilience of native communities. Through physically walking through the land and its history, students get to gain a deeper appreciation for the cultures that have shaped these regions.
1. Washington, D.C.: American History and Indigenous Sovereignty
A visit to Washington, D.C. is the perfect opportunity for students studying Indigenous history and rights. The National Museum of the American Indian gives students a chance to explore the history and culture of Native American communities, while the National Mall provides a chance to visit monuments and memorials that tell the story of civil rights and Indigenous sovereignty. Through exhibits and interactive experiences, students can learn about the long history of Indigenous communities in the U.S. and their continued fight for justice. School tours in D.C. help students understand how the struggles of the past are still relevant today, especially for Indigenous communities.
2. The Black Hills of South Dakota: Cultural and Environmental Learning
South Dakota’s Black Hills are a perfect location for students studying Indigenous history and environmental challenges. The Black Hills are home to the Lakota Sioux, and the area is full of cultural significance. A visit to the Badlands National Park or Mount Rushmore allows students to explore the natural landscapes while learning about the profound connection between the Lakota people and the land. School tours in this region help students grasp the complex history of Native American land rights and the environmental impact of settler colonialism. These destinations also show the importance of land stewardship and the challenges faced by Indigenous communities in protecting their cultural heritage.
3. The American Southwest: Monument Valley and Sacred Indigenous Sites
The American Southwest, particularly in Arizona and New Mexico, is home to some of the most iconic Indigenous sites in the U.S. Monument Valley, Chaco Canyon, and the Petrified Forest National Park provide students with direct access to sacred spaces where Indigenous peoples have lived for centuries. These locations serve as perfect places for learning about the cultural, environmental, and historical context of Indigenous communities. Exploring this region provides students with the opportunity to understand the struggles and resilience of Native American tribes, while also discussing the importance of preserving cultural traditions and promoting sustainable practices in these communities.
4. Vancouver, Canada: Sustainable Development and Indigenous Land Rights
Although not located in the U.S., Vancouver is a must-visit destination for any seeking school tours of America that highlight indigenous rights. Situated on the traditional territories of the Coast Salish peoples, Vancouver has tons of opportunities to gain an understanding of Indigenous land rights, urban sustainability, and reconciliation efforts. Students will learn about how Vancouver respects both its natural resources and Indigenous heritage while implementing green building practices and environmental policies. This trip helps students grasp the connection between sustainability, cultural preservation, and community development.
5. The Everglades National Park, Florida: Conservation and Indigenous Culture
The Everglades National Park in Florida is an essential destination for students studying the intersection of conservation and Indigenous culture. The park is home to the Miccosukee and Seminole tribes, whose communities have been living in the Everglades for centuries. Visiting the Everglades gives students the opportunity to learn about biodiversity, environmental conservation, and the cultural practices of Indigenous tribes in protecting their ancestral land. Tours in this region are the perfect educational experience that combines environmental science with cultural awareness, emphasizing the importance of sustainable land management and ecological balance.
Customizing Your Indigenous Studies Tour
By working with Engaged Education, educators can customize school tours of America to focus specifically on Indigenous history and culture. We help design itineraries that align with your educational goals and curriculum, offering a unique opportunity for students to explore Indigenous communities, sustainability practices, and environmental preservation across North America.
If you are interested in creating a customized tour for your students, download our free brochure today and one of our expert travel staff members will reach out and help you start planning a school tour of America that will inspire and educate future generations.
