Great little museum about the Seminole tribe in Florida. Came here over the weekend on a weeklong trip in Florida. I had learned about the Seminole tribe in school, and have been long fascinated by the history of the tribe (past and present) in Florida. My friend and I got in around 4 pm (they close at 5pm), so we missed the boardwalk. However, the front staff were very helpful and got us in immediately so that that we could watch the intro 18-minute video and then proceed to the rest of the exhibit thereafter. The museum showcases the history of the Seminole tribe and highlights various aspects of culture (including things like food, trade, arts, clothing). Part of the museum has artwork from painter Jimmy Osceola (no photos allowed in this part of the museum), which were absolutely beautiful and vivid in color! Ticket prices are $10 for adults, $7.50 for students. IMO, well worth the money as it provided a good understanding of Seminole history and culture, all in one small space. The boardwalk would have been a nice place to visit (if I got there earlier) - hopefully next time! read more

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This is a very nice calm atmosphere very educational has a video of their history as well as they have life like figurines that display their history, their culture and their way of life in great detail as well as they have a gift shop and natural trail to where you can see different plants and items that grow in the area as well as as animals that could possibly be in the area I could not have asked for a better museum to visit while on vacation. It is the best we have visited in years and a lady by the name, Anita. Was very nice and helpful in the gift shop. Very understanding of children with special needs. She was very great with the kids. read more

Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum - A bear - Museums Near Me - Clewiston, Florida

NARM members !!! This is a must. It has a great boardwalk and Ronda of bathrooms, benches and water fountains. Very ADA friendly. And the museum itself or rich in history of the Seminole community. A must see. I will return again read more

November is Native American heritage month which makes it the perfect time to visit this museum nestled in Big Cypress Preserve halfway between Ft. Lauderdale and Naples. The Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki museum showcases the history and culture of the Seminole tribe of Florida. The Seminoles were the only Native American tribe never to sign a peace treaty with the US government. They come from a small band of around 200 people led by Sam Jones who helped them to hide out in the Everglades to avoid capture by the US government in the early 1800's to a Hard Rock empire with more than 500 million dollars a year in gambling profits from their casinos today. An idea for a museum was first discussed by the Seminole tribe in 1989. Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki means to learn or to remember and the opening of the museum on August 21,1997 commemorated the 40th anniversary of federal recognition of the Seminole Tribe of Florida. In 2005 the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki was the first tribal museum to receive accreditation from the American Association of Museums (AAM), and is a Smithsonian Institution Affiliate. Admission to the museum is $10 for adults. The museum uses a multi-screen media presentation as well as dioramas and exhibits to explain Seminole history and traditions. The museum has a 200,000 piece collection which includes bead work, dolls, clothing, jewelry, manuscripts, and baskets. In glass cases you will see rare artifacts and there is also galleries featuring life-sized depictions of traditional Seminole practices in 1890s Florida. The museum also has space for temporary exhibits. I really liked the display about how the Seminoles traded at the Stranhan House which I have been to many times in Ft. Lauderdale. Some of the things I learned at the museum is that there are eight Seminole clans - Panther, Bear, Deer, Wind, Bigtown, Bird, Snake, and Otter and children inherit the mother's clan, how patchwork came to fashion in the early part of the 20th century in the Seminoles clothing, that the Seminoles ate turtles, mudfish, alligator, deer, cabbage palm berries, gophers, swamp apple, wild potatoes, wild grapes and bananas, and that they kept hogs and cared for wild cattle descended from Spanish herds. When you finish inside the museum there is a one-and-a-half-mile boardwalk adjacent to the museum through a cypress swamp dome. It is part of the Great Florida Birding Trail. About half way through the walk, there is village and ceremonial grounds with chickees where you would normally see Seminole artists and craftsmen. On the day I visited it was the American Indian Arts Festivals so they were all on the festival grounds. On the way out I stopped in at the small but well stocked museum gift shop where they were selling Native American crafts. books, toys, jewelry, and Christmas ornaments. If you can't make it to the museum, portions of the collections are available to view online. Don't forget to stop at the sculpture garden on the museum grounds across the bridge. They were having a seasonal display of carved and painted pumpkins, I enjoyed my visit to the museum where I was able to learn so much more about the "Unconquered People" of Florida. read more

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This is a museum by the Seminole tribe of Florida. It is about an hour from Plantation. It's worth the drive. It is a beautiful museum with not just artifacts, but scene set up that really allow you to understand their history and culture. There's also a nature walk for a mile on a boardwalk out into the Everglades that is really nice. We absolutely loved the museum and look forward to going back. read more

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Beautiful museum full of rich Seminole history and art. I heard reviews about the place but I actually was in awe when I first laid eyes on it. It's worth the drive! read more

A great small museum. The video at the start gives an amazing introduction to the history of the Seminole people, how they came to Florida, and what is happening today. Great exhibits that you can wander around at your own pace with interactive displays. We didn't get to experience the boardwalk, because a Florida panther mother & child had been spotted in the area (both for our safety and theirs), and we were given a discount by the really friendly staff. They have a lovely statue garden outside which you can wander around too, and a gift shop that sells Seminole clothing, crafts, jewellery and much more. read more

Nice place, with a lot of history. I love how they give so much detail about the tribe. I learned about so many curious things that I didn't know, I like how they show the past history and the present. The nature walk is amazing is soooo relaxing is long tho so bring comfortable shoes and mosquitoes repellent lol. read more

5 stars for the information, facilities, and value This museum is definitely off the beaten path and there is good reason for its location - Seminole Indian history. For those that don't know about The Unconquered" then I'd suggest visiting this museum. There is plenty of parking and the building is new. Included in the $10 admission is a 15 min video in the theater as well as many dioramas, audio stations, and a 1 mile boardwalk. A small selection of gift are available in the gift shop which, is not pushed by the employees. Very casual, air conditioned, and relaxing atmosphere. Wasn't busy at all when we went and it was easy to go at our own pace. I'd suggest bug spray if your headed along the boardwalk. read more

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Took a group of 26 people here today, dads and daughters. A really nice museum with interesting stuff inside. The tour through the swamp on the boardwalk was really nice plenty of shade and cool things to see. read more

Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum - Museums Near Me - Clewiston, Florida

Professionally curated with artifcats, wall narratives, and film depicting the last 100 years of Seminole history. It's very well done, and is easily absorbed by children as well as adults. Each November, the Museum sponsors the Indian Arts festival on the grounds in front of the museum. The 3 day event has the feel of a community fair with the Seminole community in patchwork clothes, feasting on fry bread and smoked meats, and lining the bleachers for the wild animal shows, Native American dance, modern music by indigenous artists, and some alligator wrestling that moved the tribe into early commercial success with tourists. This is not Disney. It is a living culture which is open for sharing with visitors. You've not visited Florida until you've visited First Peoples. read more

Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum - Billy Walker (Nov2009) - Museums Near Me - Clewiston, Florida

My native american studies professor made us go on a field trip to learn about native american culture. The class erupted in disappointed grumbling because it was such a far drive. We were all so pleasantly surprised. I attended the Annual American Indian Arts Celebration which takes place in November. I believe the entrance fee was $6 per person. It is worth visiting the museum during the festival because you get so much more culture. I heard native american folk stories, ate a traditional corn soup (among the MANY foods for sale), purchased a native american handmade necklaces (again, MANY choices) and met a lot of interesting people. I think my favorite part was interacting with the real Seminole Indians and seeing them participate in the traditions, it felt like reliving tradition. read more

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I visited the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum through an FSU alumni event, and I am so glad I took them up on this opportunity. Daren N. (and other previous reviewers) does an excellent and comprehensize job of describing what the museum involves. My husband and I also watched the video before entering the exhibits and thought that enhanced our experience. The outside boardwalk is absolutely gorgeous! Definitely take a walk out there. We didn't get a chance to check out the village, where Seminoles apparently spend some time and you can observe them in some traditional tasks. Another part of our event involved a tour of the museum archives, which was awesome. If you are interested in research, make an appointment with the librarians, because they have so many awesome materials available. There are primary documents like newspapers from the 1800s and photos of Seminoles thoughout the years. Apparently some of their materials are available online through the museum website as well. Finally, Billie Swamp Safari is just down the road... I will review them separately! read more

I wasn't sure what to expect at Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki. My church group wanted to go so we felt a little obliged to contribute to the "fundraiser" so we didn't expect much. Now I can say I am extremely glad we went. The museum tour was very good and the tour guide knowledgeable. I wish we had a little more time to enjoy the small museum a little more than we did, but it was probably the right amount of time with the group that we were in. After we ate lunch in one of the Chickees (?), we took a guided tour through the preserve. The guide pointed out many types of trees, moss and other foliage along the way. She was very mindful of our group as we had some that were physically challenged and required walkers. At the halfway point (which was about one mile around), she asked if anyone wanted or needed to go back to the bus. Most of our group wanted to go back so she had the driver come to the midway point and pick them up. While waiting for the bus, we were able to observe an alligator swimming around the pond at the entrance of the Museum. At the end of the day, it was a great visit. So much so, that we decided we would come back with friends when they visit from out of town. read more

We visited this museum recently and were blown away by the experience. The guides were knowledgeable, friendly, and able to field all of our questions. The exhibits in the museum are fascinating and so authentic. Seminole history & culture is beautiful and worth preserving. Everyone Florida resident should experience this museum. read more

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Wonderful little place. More than worth the time to see a different genre from my own. I grew up in mid-Florida with school teacher parents. I recall going to the Seminole Reservation in the mid 1950's, dragged kicking and screaming to this 'educational opportunity.' Here, some 65+ years later, it was refreshing to see some of the same things I had enjoyed as a kid. Traditions? For sure. Presented in realistic yet intimate settings, the lives of People impressed me again with different eyes. I'm curious what my reaction will be when I revisit again in another 50 years! read more

What a great museum. The beginning video is informative and interesting without being too long and the exhibits are really well done. Sadly the weather wasn't conducive to doing the boardwalk but judging from the amount of wildlife in the pond in the front of the museum (alligators, birds, and turtles) I'm sure it would have been a great walk. The drive out here is nice too; take a detour and you can drive down some back roads to see a ton of alligators. This is a great day trip from Ft Lauderdale or Miami! read more

This place is dear to my heart. Four stars ONLY because it's epically far out on Alligator Alley. Like almost prohibitively far. Bring cold water, bug spray, and buy your Billie's Swamp Safari tickets in advance to make a day of the whole area. First stop, the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki, which is Seminole for "place of learning." Enjoy the board walk, and the amazing displays and exhibits made about Seminoles by Seminoles. Grab some swag from their replica "Indian Camp," which usually has a few Native vendors on the opposite side of the board walk. I recently took my friend Francis, and she was snapping picture after picture of the beautiful forest and birds. Stop at the nearby Sweet Tooth on your way out and snag that delicious pumpkin fry bread or an Indian taco. You've never had anything like it--and it's serious eats. read more

I've live in Miami all my life and never been. Was able to experience this with family over the thanksgiving holiday. The host/tour manager was helpful,transparent,and made sure we had a great time. Definitely an experience I won't forget. Thank you! Heck out Billie Swamp Safari too. Good food and amazing hospitality too. read more

I have always been in awe of the Seminole Tribe of Florida, having faced the Spaniards and American invasions with a bravery which only indigenous people with their back to the wall can muster. Come on! They are the only tribe who have never signed a peace treaty with the U.S., even after the brutal 2nd Seminole War which left many of their people killed or relocated. It was the most costliest Indian war in U.S. history. The Ah-tah-thi-ki museum has been opened for 12 years now and it IS like the Smithsonian of the Everglades. A beautiful collection of movies, artifacts and nature walks, you have to spend at least three hours here to grasp what this tribe is all about. The tour starts with a film on a five-screen projector and then one of the Seminole employees does a walking tour of the exhibitions, explaining the life of the Seminoles, their culture, traits, ceremonies and much more. The figures of the people are life-like and that's because they were molded and designed from real tribal people. The nature walk back into the swamp is a must as it shows the different plants and how the tribe might use it medicinally. There's a recreation of a Seminole camp and a center where they preserve artifacts. If you appreciate history and culture, you must visit here. read more

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Beautiful place. I took my daughter here today after she had recently learned about the Seminoles, and she was happy to be able to get this extra perspective. The exhibits were very well done and informative, and we left feeling like we had learned a lot. The 17-minute orientation film at the beginning should not be missed. Bring cold water if you're doing the boardwalk. There's a bathroom about halfway around, but it can be humid and sticky out there in the warmer months. The views were great. Unfortunately, there was no one working in the village when we were there in the afternoon, but we were prepared for this, and will be back again. read more

Really nice museum. They offer guided tours or you can walk through the facility at your own pace. Inside the museum there's also a research center for those that are looking to do genealogy or tribal research. After touring inside, you are able to walk the grounds outside where there are also artifacts and stations to visit. I'm looking forward to visit again when there's a Pow wow or a festival of some sort. For what's offer, the price is right. read more

I saw alot of potential in this museum. It needs to be lead by someone who is adamant about preserving the Seminole history and culture. The museum left alot to be desired in terms of historical facts and the movie was pitiful. I enjoyed the walk however it can be improved by bringing in the animals described on the informational signs. I'd like to see more of the true culture as alot of the pictures appeared to be from the 80s and early 90s. This is history and the Seminole need to put more effort Into explaining their whole true history. read more

Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum - Seminole pre 1980 - Museums Near Me - Clewiston, Florida

My wife and I have been going through a "get back in touch with the Everglades" phase lately and most recently decided to venture out to the Seminole Big Cypress Reserve this past weekend. Our destination was the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum on the reservation. It was a nice drive from Fort Lauderdale, only took around 45 minutes. It's very scenic as well. You get off on Snake Road from Alligator Alley and drive about 17 miles North. It felt like we truly got away from the city which was exactly what we were looking for. There are a few websites that list the museum incorrectly and the address is wrong. Just make sure when you look it up that you're looking at the one on Big Cypress Reservation between Naples and Fort Lauderdale. On to the museum... When we arrived we found the parking lot was across the street from the museum. Since it looked like a long walk in the heat I dropped the family off in front of the museum and parked in the lot. I joined up with them and we proceeded inside. When we entered we were greeting by a couple staff members who asked us to sign the guestbook. We were told to go to the gift shop to get tickets. Let's just say I was pretty excited to say that it is free for Florida residents with ID. I believe the discount is available up until September, but I'd call ahead to varify. Otherwise it's $9 for adults. Kids under 4 are free. The gift shop is small but has many interesting items and some very nice jewelry. The museum itself was impressive. I felt like I was at a Smithsonian exhibit. Very well kept inside and the displays were beautiful. In the back of the museum there is a 1.5mile boardwalk that takes you through woods with different stops to visit. There are native Seminoles located throughout the trail doing arts and crafts and cooking traditional foods. There is also a wrap-around movie theater that plays a 17 minute movie about the Seminole Tribe. I would recommend watching the movie first before walking throug the exhibits. The movie gives you a better understanding of the items on display. All in all it was totally worth the visit and I learned a lot about the unconquered tribe. If you are looking for a day getaway and have been itching to visit the Everglades this place is totally worth the stop. My daughter (who is almost 3) even enjoyed the visit... especially the drive looking for Alligators in the canals along the way. There is no food allowed inside the museum however there are covered picnic areas in the parking lot across the street. Even better, 3 miles down the road from the museum is a swamp safari that takes you into the Everglades. read more

I was able to visit this wonderful museum with my family during Thanksgiving. It was truly an enlightening experience that I am grateful I was able too. This place would be great for any age group to attend since there are many interesting rooms, photos and artwork to look at. A small family excursion on a Friday afternoon would definitely be in for a treat. The entry is extremely affordable, it's run by the community and there is a great sense of appreciation, and preservation of the land. I would highly recommend this place to anyone. read more

We were in this museum some years ago. We want to go again but I am looking for some new reviews. Years ago it was a nice place to visit and it reminded me of the Collier County museum but in a bigger scale. Thanks read more

This museum is modern, interesting and gives a fascinating insight into the history and culture of Seminole indians. It's highly recommended and if you are going to Billie Swamp then this is a better stop and on the way. read more

This was a great family outing event I really enjoyed it and would recommend for anyone learning the native history and just seeing the animals and how culture is. read more

A friend and I drove out here on a weekday. There were no special events planned, so maybe its better when they have a special event or if you combine this museum with some other tourist site. We watched the movie which was not too informative about Indian history in general. It raised more questions than it answered. The boardwalk was very nice (I mean the physical structure) - it goes around for about a mile in the woods. There are markers to name the trees but no wildlife and the "camp" that you come to was not exactly full of activity. A few huts, one man cooking and one lady doing hand work. If the items were for sale, no prices were visible. Overall unimpressive area in the middle of nowhere and not much too see there. read more

Excellent cultural museum and they have a boardwalk, too. Lots to see and explore about Seminole culture. I would have to say my favorite is the village where folks make and sell crafts and you can see how the traditional village was set up. I also love the boardwalk. And ask what is the artifact of the month. You can see archeologists in action. Definitely worth the trip! read more