Visiting the Payne Family Native American Center
Whether you’re attending class, visiting for a presentation, or planning an event, the Payne Family Native American Center welcomes you.
Designed with culture, connection, and respect in mind, PFNAC is a place for learning, gathering, and belonging on the University of Montana campus. It stands as both a cultural home and a welcoming space for all who come to learn, share, and grow together.
The Payne Family Native American Center
Hours
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Location
The Payne Family Native American Center is located on the southwest side of the Oval — the final prime space to complete the University of Montana’s historic circle.
Its placement carries meaning: a place where tradition meets innovation, surrounded by native plants and the Ethnobotany Garden. Facing east, PFNAC welcomes the morning sun — a direction significant to many Plains tribes — and stands as a symbol of learning and renewal.
Address:
32 Campus Drive
Missoula, MT 59812
The Payne Family Native American Center
Explore the Space
Take a moment to look around — every part of the Payne Family Native American Center tells a story. Whether you’re gathering in the rotunda, walking through the garden, or attending a planetarium show, each space carries purpose and reflection.
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The Rotunda
The Bonnie Heavy Runner Gathering Space Rotunda – The circular heart of the building, inspired by lodge architecture and tribal design. -
Ethnobotany Garden
The Ethnobotany Garden –Featuring native plants used for food, medicine, and ceremony – specifically from the Tribes here in Montana. -
Star Gazing Room
Planetarium – Home to star shows and storytelling under the night sky.
To book a showing click here: Star Gazing
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Story Telling Fire Pit
Outdoor Story Telling Fire Pit – A shared gathering space for community, events, and ceremony.
The Rotunda
Ethnobotany Garden
Star Gazing Room
Planetarium – Home to star shows and storytelling under the night sky.
To book a showing click here: Star Gazing
Story Telling Fire Pit
Accessibility and Visitor Info
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PFNAC is fully ADA accessible. Elevators, automatic doors, and ramps located at all three (3) entrances to the building.
Parking
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Visitor parking is available nearby in the lots west of the Oval.
For updated Map for parking: Parking
Building Tours
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To schedule a guided tour or educational visit, please contact the Building and Program Manager at 406-243-5831
Cultural Practices
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Smudging is welcomed, honor songs are heard, ceremonies can be practiced.
