Alert Bay - U'Mista Cultural Centre

As well as displays of the typical Indian masks and everyday artifacts the U'Mista Cultural Center, about 2 km (11/4 mi.) west of the ferry terminal, houses a collection of potlatch gifts confiscated in 1921 when potlatch ceremonies were banned. Guided tours of the center (Mon., Tues., Sat.) sometimes also feature dancing, films, or demonstrations of traditional food preparation (reservations required).

Not far from the Center stand a traditional long-house (used as a community center) and the "world's tallest totem pole" 73 m (240 ft) high. Made by Indian craftsmen in 1971 it is carved from top to bottom.