A Guide to Oregon’s Indigenous-Owned Businesses and Art
Nestled on the west coast, Oregon is more than just lush forests and striking coastline. It’s a hub of thriving Indigenous art, food, and culture, an intrinsic part of the state since time immemorial. This guide ups the ante, focusing on these fundamental veins of society, the Indigenous-owned businesses, and art that are Oregon’s beating heart.
1. Celilo Restaurant, Portland
Starting off in Portland, Celilo is a must-visit restaurant for visitors and locals alike. Serving up Indigenous cuisine, dishes like their wild-caught salmon evoke the flavor of the surrounding Pacific Northwest. Showings a deep reverence for local ingredients, the menu changes regularly, based on local harvest seasons.2. Raven Makes Gallery, Bend
Over in Central Oregon, in the city of Bend, the Raven Makes Gallery hosts spectacular exhibitions of Indigenous art from Oregon and beyond. Known for its diverse collection, including traditional masks, beadwork, and sculptures, you’ll experience the heart and journey of Indigenous stories through the work of contemporary Native artists.
3. Chocktoot Wild Horse Round-Up, Chiloquin
Every year, in the town of Chiloquin, Chocktoot organizes the Wild Horse Round-Up, paying homage to their time-honored Klamath tribal tradition. Settle in and witness the synergy between the horsemen and wild horses; it’s a sight to behold and truly a depiction of man and beast’s intricate bond.4. Nez Perce Express, Lapwai
Sure, you’ll find gas stations aplenty in Oregon. But the Nez Perce Express in Lapwai is more than your regular fill-up. Owned by the Nez Perce Tribe, it even has a casino attached, so refueling your car could turn into an adventurous night of gaming.5. Wildhorse Resort and Casino, Pendleton
Sticking to the gaming theme, the Wildhorse Resort and Casino in Pendleton is another Indigenous-owned business worth checking out. Operated by the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, this resort is an all-encompassing entertainment destination, with golf, dining, and even a cineplex.6. Thunderbird Supply Co., Pendleton
Next, the Thunderbird Supply Co. in Pendleton is a trove of Indigenous arts and crafts materials from beads to quilt patterns. Locals know it’s the right spot for those creative spirits looking for authentic supplies supporting Indigenous proprietors.7. Salmon King Fisheries, Coos Bay
Coos Bay is home to Salmon King Fisheries, a native-owned enterprise dedicated to providing fresh salmon harvested with sustainable practices. Their commitment echoes the deep Indigenous tradition of respecting and preserving Mother Nature.8. Northwest Indian Language Institute, Eugene
Head south to Eugene, home of the Northwest Indian Language Institute. Striving to revive and preserve Indigenous languages, their courses are open to anyone interested in learning about the rich tapestry of Indigenous languages that has shaped Oregon’s cultural landscape for centuries.9. Marty’s Clock Clinic, Woodburn
Stepping into Marty’s Clock Clinic in Woodburn is like traveling back in time. Owned by a Santiam Kalapuya, this repair shop is a humble tribute to the marriage of modern business with time-honored tradition. A good pick for antique lovers with a penchant for supporting local indigenous enterprises.10. Warm Springs Gallery, Warm Springs
Finally, on the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs Reservation, the Warm Springs Gallery holds an impressive collection of contemporary and traditional Indigenous artists, revealing the soul of Oregon’s Indigenous communities, their past, present, and future.Oregon is brimming with Indigenous businesses and art, each filled with stories waiting to be discovered. Visit, learn, and stand in awe of their deep connection with the land and tradition. It’s a chance to experience Oregon in a way that touches your heart, connects you to its rich culture and enticingly keeps you returning for more.