Duwamish Longhouse & Cultural Center

What to know

The Duwamish Longhouse and Cultural Center is a modern version of a traditional cedar longhouse, functioning as a museum, art gallery, and community space. Built in 2009, the center serves as the home of the Duwamish people and promotes their cultural and economic survival. The facility features a large center inlaid dance floor with a distinct basketry design, capable of accommodating up to 190 people in its main Public Assembly Hall. Located near the mouth of the Duwamish River, the center overlooks the Duwamish River Valley. It is situated across the street from Duwamish Site No. 1, a major archaeological site listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This nearby site contains a village that archeologists have dated back to approximately 600 A.D., providing a profound connection to the ancestral land. Beyond its role as a museum, the longhouse is a living space for the Tribe. It hosts public events organized by the Tribe or allied groups, as well as private gatherings such as weddings and reunions. The project to establish this center began in the 1990s as part of a broader effort by the Duwamish Tribe to reclaim land within their ancestral territory in Seattle.

Visitor tips

• Admission is free for individuals and families.
• The center is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
• Free parking is available on-site for visitors.
• Children must be supervised by a parent or guardian while visiting.

Nearby context

The center is located at 4705 W Marginal Way SW, positioned near the mouth of the Duwamish River and an important landing site for early immigrants in Seattle's history.