Haines is home to one of the biggest bald eagle conservation organizations in the world. Just three blocks from downtown, this two-part organization is committed to both conservation and education surrounding the national bird. You’ll find a natural history museum featuring more than 200 Southeast Alaskan specimens. The raptor center is also part of the foundation where there are 11 avian ambassadors ready to welcome visitors.

In winter months, entrance to the natural history museum is just $6, or get a combo museum/raptor center pass for $9. Hours are 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Monday – Friday. Visitors can also call ahead and schedule special appointments during the weekend.

Bald is Beautiful

The museum opened in 1994 with simply a natural history diorama. Many of the state’s first taxidermy mounts were displayed here, and the museum grew to include a specimen room and lobby. Here, you’ll be able to compare feathers, shells, skulls, hooves, antlers and more. Discover how Alaska’s animals move and live in a changing environment.

The lobby features a mural of Chilkat River as experienced through the four distinct Alaska seasons. Look for bear, belugas, birds of prey, moose and harbor porpoises. Throughout 2017, interactive experiences will be added to the museum along with rotating geology exhibits. Stop by and see what the foundation has been up to—and meet an ambassador or two!