MUSEUM

VISIT THE WORLD’S LARGEST TRIBALLY-OWNED MUSEUM

Located right around the corner from Foxwoods Resort Casino, the Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center has brought the Mashantucket Pequots’ story to life for decades. After opening its doors in 1998, the museum has not only been designated a Smithsonian Affiliate and a National Archaeological District but also a “Best Museum” by Connecticut Magazine and a “Gem Destination” by AAA Travel Guides.

From art to nature to history, this museum truly has something for everyone. Admire dazzling works inspired by the moon cycle in the Kunâhneepamuhshâtunônak, or “Our Moons,” exhibit. Stroll through indigenous plants amidst the ethnobotanical garden’s verdant green roof terrace. And learn about the cultural significance of the cedar tree by wandering through the second-largest wetland in the Connecticut area. Over 800,000 visitors have immersed themselves in everything the museum has to offer—and this summer, the museum is excited to welcome even more visitors to join its 25thanniversary celebration.

The celebration kicks off with an unforgettable evening on August 11. As the exact date the museum opened in 1998, this is the perfect night to honor the museum with a momentous gala. However, this anniversary isn’t the only significant date coming up this year. 2023 also marks the 40th anniversary of the passage of the Mashantucket Pequot Indian Claims Settlement Act, in which the U.S. Congress formally approved the Tribe’s reclamation of reservation land as well as federal recognition of its tribal government. This was a major milestone in reclaiming the Pequots’ ancestral home following the State of Connecticut’s sale of more than 1,000 acres of Pequot territory during the mid-1800s. The museum invites you to learn more about the history of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation and other tribes throughout New England by attending one of their many events and exhibits this upcoming season.

The museum’s 25th anniversary is an incredible opportunity to honor the culture and history of one of Connecticut’s indigenous tribal nations. We look forward to seeing you this season!