I didn't know there was a museum when I went there. The spot was missing on TripAdvisor (what a shame) It's a fairly nice small museum. The ranger there was very nice and showed us a 20-min film about the Indian Reservation, and their beliefs (interesting). There are a few hiking trails you can walk around and a small historic town reserved just less than 0.2 mile from the museum. You can see the old church and merchandise (very interesting). The view by the river and in the valley is incredible as well. Highly recommended.
This National Park visitors center was an excellent way to learn about the Nez Perce tribe and the trials they encountered on their way to Canada to escape the US Army. The video explaining their situation was very good and the visitor centers staff was extremely knowledgeable. Well work the trip.
Great place, knowledgeable workers and lots to see. The museum offers much to look at and learn about, along with a short film. The walk/trail behind the museum is beautiful.
Did we see the same museum? We went in July 2014 and the film we saw was probably shot in the 1970s. Some of the greatest and bravest Indian fighters were part of the Nez Perce. I was so disappointed because it did not show the true bravado of Chief Joseph Sr. and Junior, Looking Glass, Yellow Wolf..there was a great opportunity to bring a magnificient people to life but they become lost in the dry almost embarassing tribute (?) to an amazing people who were fighting to keep what was rightfully theirs.
The Nez Perce National Historical Park is a wonderful stop to view the history of the Native Americans of Idaho. The center is located along the Clearwater river, on a hill overlooking Spaulding park which was the location of the Spaulding mission. The center has excellent displays of tribal bead work and tools. The staff are very knowledgeable and willing to share their knowledge of the Nez Perce people and their way of life. There is also a great film that explains the Nez Perce tribe and their ways. This is a stop that is well worthwhile. I was really impressed when we were asked to participate in the program regarding the use of Atlatl, a primitive weapon. For the younger visitors, there is program that gives the children a booklet of activities for them to use to while visiting the center. Spaulding park is wonderful for a picnic. Lots of huge trees that offer shade on hot days.
We happened to be driving through Idaho on 95 and decided to stop at this museum. We are very glad that we did. It is embarrassing to say but I did not know hardly anything about the Nez Perce or their history. The film and the exhibits were great and informative. Shocking to see how much smaller the current reservation is. The picnic area is absolutely beautiful so don't forget to bring your lunch!
It is a great memorial to the Indian Nation as well as the first settlers that sacrificed everything to find a new beginning.
A lot of History in the drive from Lewiston, Idaho to Grangeville, Idaho. Whether your interested in Lewis & Clark or the Nez Perce - you will not be disappointed!The scenery is Spectacular. The confluence of the Snake & Clearwater Rivers is in Lewiston.
Lovely museum, nice grounds for walking (boy was it hot, though), and my daughter got to help construct a tipi with 2 of the rangers. The staff was very enthusiastic about the park, visitors, and interpretation.
The center has an excellent film to orient people to the Nez Perce culture and history. There are many artifacts on display and the staff is very friendly, willing to assist and knowledgeable. A visit is time well spent.