Native American Studies Center is in Lancaster, South Carolina, about an hour’s drive from the center of Charlotte. It’s about a 25 minute drive from Waxhaw.
It’s a big of a haul from the Queen City, but if you’re interested in learning about the Native tribes of South Carolina, it’s well worth the drive.
The Center is part of University of South Carolina at Lancaster. It’s located at 119 S Main Street, Lancaster, SC, about two miles from campus on Main Street, in a 15,500 square-foot facility, which includes 6,500 square feet of exhibit and gallery space. There are five main art galleries.
Its special collections hold the world’s largest single collection of Catawba pottery in existence.
In addition to the pottery, the Center holds regalia, jewelry, photography, reed baskets and many other contemporary and traditional artworks.
Visiting Native American Studies Center
Native American Studies Center is free to visit.
Current Hours:
- Monday: Closed (open by appointment only)
- Tuesday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Wednesday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Thursday: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
- Friday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Saturday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Sunday: Closed
Make sure to check nativeamericanstudies.org/about-us for any updates to visiting hours.
Upcoming Events at Native American Studies Center
Native American Studies Center hosts many events (usually free.) One of these events would be the perfect time to also explore the galleries and learn about the Center.
The Center hosts pop-up art markets, Lunch and Learn events, receptions for exhibits and more. You can find all of the upcoming events at nativeamericanstudies.org or the organization’s Facebook page.
Mini Pop-Up Art Market
3rd Saturday of the year from July to November, 2025
July 19, August 16, September 20, October 18, and November 15, 2025
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Free
Support local talent and discover something special! These mini monthly pop-up art sales offer original works by Native American artists, perfect for gifts or your personal art collection.
Meet the artists and shop their creations. Each mini pop-up art market features different artists. Learn about the artists at each market.
Special Reception: By Way of Water: Reviving & Reimagining Catawba Art Forms
Thursday, August 28, 2025
5:30 to 7 p.m.
Free
The Native American Studies Center invites you to a special reception for the new exhibit, “By Way of Water: Reviving & Reimagining Catawba Art Forms,” featuring the work of Catawba artists Aaron Baumgardner, Teresa Dunlap, DeLesslin George-Warren, and Alex Osborn.
Charlotte Art Museums, Galleries and Events — a calendar
Double-Check Before You Head Out!
We make every effort to make sure that everything on Charlotte on the Cheap is 100% accurate.
However, sometimes things change without notice, and we are not always notified. It’s also possible that we can make a mistake.
Please verify all deals and events with the venue or organizer before you go.
You might also be interested in:
- Subscribing to Charlotte on the Cheap’s email list
- Best skyline views in Charlotte for photos
- Best food and drink deals in Charlotte
- 50+ walks and hikes in and near Charlotte
- Free and cheap things to do this week
- Charlotte Hotel Deals
- Charlotte on the Cheap events calendar
- Charlotte area farmers markets
More art events
Check out our full calendar of Charlotte art museums, galleries and events or look at a few events here:
Native American Studies Center, Lancaster, SC
119 S Main Street
Lancaster, SC
Leave a Reply