The Institute for American Indian Studies located on 38 Curtis Road in Washington Connecticut has opened a redeveloped Outside Museum. This Outside Museum experience is included in admission. The staff and education directors have developed safe and educational opportunities for visitors to experience on their grounds on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
Guests are invited to visit the rebuilt 16th-century replica Algonkian Village and to learn about Native American community life prior to European contact. A highlight of the Village is the opportunity is to learn about food sustainability and natural healing methods in the traditional Three Sisters and Medicinal Plant Gardens. There will also be games to enjoy as well as educational scavenger hunts along the Institute’s woodland trails. And, for those interested in the science of archeology don’t miss the chance to explore the outdoor Archaeology Pavilion that demonstrates how museums like the Institute can learn from the past.
As the Institute welcomes visitors back to their Outside Museum and encourages guests to engage with the more than 10,000 years of Native American history, the safety of visitors, members and staff is a priority. Please visit the Institute for American Indian Studies website for the most up-to-date information on their safety policies.
About The Institute for American Indian Studies
Located on 15 acres of woodland acres the Institute For American Indian Studies preserves and educates through archeology, research, exhibitions, and programs. They have the 16th c. Algonquian Village, Award-Winning Wigwam Escape, and a museum with temporary and permanent displays of authentic artifacts from prehistory to the present that allows visitors to foster a new understanding of the world and the history and culture of Native Americans. The Institute for American Indian Studies is located on 38 Curtis Road, Washington, CT.
Safety Policy
In accordance with Reopening CT guidelines, we will have safety measures in place to promote social distancing and best practices:
• Our indoor exhibits will remain closed during Phase 1 of reopening. We anticipate being able to open the indoor exhibits with modifications and enhanced cleaning procedures during Phase 2. Please check back for details.
• Through an abundance of caution, we have limited the capacity on our grounds to 35. If we exceed capacity we will encourage visitors to wait near their cars, visit Washington Depot, or visit nearby Steep Rock Preserve.
• To ensure proper cleaning and allow for setup of educational activities, we will have reduced hours. The Outdoor Museum will be open on Fridays and Saturdays from 11:00am to 4:00pm, and on Sundays from noon to 4:00pm.
• All staff who interact with visitors will be wearing masks. We encourage visitors to bring masks, as well.
• Staff and signage will direct visitors as to the appropriate traffic flow, so that everyone can enjoy the educational experiences safely and at their own pace.
• Please be aware of your surroundings and respect other peoples’ social distance.
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