Visit Seneca Nation in Western New York
Traveling throughout Western New York you will witness the beauty of the Allegany Mountains as the hills roll endlessly. You can hear the peaceful water flowing down the Allegany River or the rapids of the mighty Cattaraugus Creek. Nestled in the serene landscape is the home of a Native Nation known as the Onöndowa'ga:', the people of the great hill or by their English name, the Seneca.
Historically, the Seneca occupied territory throughout the Finger Lakes area in Central New York and in the Genesee Valley in Western New York, living in longhouses on the riversides. The Seneca were the largest of six Native American nations which comprised the Haudenosaunee Confederacy or Six Nations, a democratic government that pre-dates the U.S. Constitution.
Today, the Seneca Nation has a population including over 8,500 members. The Seneca Nation supports its people and benefits surrounding communities with a variety of cultural, educational and economic efforts.
Throughout the year, the Seneca Nation hosts events that will surely bring a positive learning experience for the entire family to enjoy. In the springtime, make a trip to our Ohi:yo’ Art Market and gaze upon the handmade beauty that visually represents our proud culture from all around Indian Country. During the summer listen to the beat of the drums, the harmonious voices and see the elegant foot work of dancers at the Marvin “Joe” Curry Veterans Pow Wow.
Experience our take on food security and food sovereignty through community engagement and wellness by implementing a Haudenosaunee approach to agricultural practices at our Gakwi:yo:h Farms.
During your visit, be sure to stop by the Onöhsagwë:de’ Cultural Center- home of the Seneca Iroquois National Museum, housing Haudenosaunee history, while you are out exploring. We invite you to stay at our Highbanks Campground, overlooking the Allegany Reservoir. Open all year, this is camping at its best. Enjoy the comforts of our cabins, relax in your RV or pitch a tent to sleep under the stars.
Welcome to the Seneca Nation!
Tips for visiting Seneca Territory
- Your general guide should be to exercise common courtesy. Be respectful of all road and traffic signs and do not litter.
- Please stay out of private or restricted areas. We take pride in protecting Mother Earth, families and elders. Be courteous and obtain permission first when taking photos or video of people.
- When visiting historical sites or grounds we ask that you respect the old structures, do not remove any artifacts, and be cautious of the landscaping and vegetation in the area as Nation and Federal law prohibit the removal or desecration of such items.
- When attending powwows and socials please honor the traditions and only observe the event unless the host has welcomed active participation. Please approach dancers and singers respectfully and ask for permission to take photos and/or video.
For the most up-to-date information on programing and events in and around the Seneca Territories be sure to like and follow Visit Seneca on both Facebook and Instagram.
