The Ulu Factory - Image 1
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Ulu Factory

4.5
·209 reviews·Anchorage, United States

Witness traditional Ulu knife craftsmanship and shop for authentic Alaskan crafts and souvenirs.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better viewing

CrowdLow
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The Ulu Factory - Image 1

Ulu Factory

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Witness traditional Ulu knife craftsmanship and shop for authentic Alaskan crafts and souvenirs.

4.5
(209 reviews)

"A cool place to see knives being made and find unique Alaskan gifts."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Watch the Makers

Peek through the windows to see Ulu knives being crafted. A fascinating process!

🎁 Great Gift Shop

Find unique Alaskan souvenirs and gifts beyond just knives.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ulu Knife Making Demonstration

Ulu Knife Making Demonstration

Workshop viewing windows

See skilled artisans craft the traditional crescent-shaped Alaskan Ulu knife. A truly unique cultural insight.

Authentic Alaskan Crafts

Authentic Alaskan Crafts

Retail shop

Discover a wide array of locally made souvenirs, from intricate carvings to moose-themed treasures.

Variety of Ulu Knives

Variety of Ulu Knives

Retail shop

Explore different sizes and handle materials, from basic to hand-carved bone, for practical use or display.

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Planning Your Visit

Watch the Ulu Knife Craftsmanship

Witness the traditional Alaskan Ulu knife being made right before your eyes. While you can't always access the workshop directly, viewing windows offer a fascinating glimpse into the artisan process. It's a unique cultural experience you won't find everywhere.

Gifts & Souvenirs Galore

Beyond the iconic Ulu knives, the factory shop is brimming with authentic Alaskan crafts and souvenirs. From moose-themed items to locally made goods, it's a prime spot for finding unique gifts for friends and family back home.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Artisans are usually working
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Foreve keeping fingers crossed for that Chick Fil A 🤞🏻#alaskatok #anchorage #alaskalife #JBLGreekOut #fyp #target #CustomersMostLoved
@emilyinalaska_
30.6K likes • 363.5K views

🎯 Watch the Makers

Peek through the windows to see Ulu knives being crafted. A fascinating process! InstagramReddit

🎁 Great Gift Shop

Find unique Alaskan souvenirs and gifts beyond just knives. Instagram

Spend a full day in Anchorage, Alaska with me 🤍🫎 • • • #flightattendantlife #cabincrew #flightattendanttiktok #anchorage #anchoragealaska #flightattendant #flightattendantvlog
@ambonikole
16.9K likes • 191.6K views
The Ulu Factory is a great place to find gifts in Anchorage! I think you def need an Alaskan moosel-toe in your home this Christmas! 🎄 This will probably start off as a 5 part series so… Where should I go next?! ✍🏼👇🏼 #anchoragealaska #anchorageak #visitanchorage #travelalaska #alaskatravel #downtownanchorage #anchorageblogger #travelblogs #giftshopping #ulufactory
andreakuuipo
116 likes • 2.2K views

🅿️ Convenient Parking

Free 30-minute parking is available right next to the building. Reddit

🚶 Walkable from Downtown

Easily accessible on foot from downtown Anchorage via C Street. Reddit

สวยเนาะหน้าร้าน The ULU Factory 🏭 211 W. Ship creek Ave Anchorage Alaska 99501
chlthiraapribaal
0 likes • 27 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Watch the Makers

Peek through the windows to see Ulu knives being crafted. A fascinating process! InstagramReddit

🎁 Great Gift Shop

Find unique Alaskan souvenirs and gifts beyond just knives. Instagram

🅿️ Convenient Parking

Free 30-minute parking is available right next to the building. Reddit

🚶 Walkable from Downtown

Easily accessible on foot from downtown Anchorage via C Street. Reddit

🔪 Practical & Beautiful

Ulu knives are great for cutting cheese, sausage, and more! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(209 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Ulu Factory for its fascinating demonstrations of traditional knife-making and its wide selection of authentic Alaskan crafts and souvenirs. While some find the prices a bit high, the quality and uniqueness of the products, combined with the opportunity to witness the artisan process, make it a highly recommended stop for an authentic taste of Alaska.

"Ulu factory that show case how to make ulu knife. Unfortunately at the time of our visit we can only see thru windows. They did have a young staff showing how to use the knife. Free 30 mins parking is available on the side of the building."

Wind Napol

"A very cool place to look through the windows and see the knives being made. Beautiful product in several grades and sizes. 5 in, 6 in, and 8 in knives and small medium and large choping "bowls" . Basic knives to hand carved bone handle knives. Plenty of other "Alaska Only" items for sale too. Easy to walk to from downtown (take "C" street to 1st street and look for the building)."

John Thompson

"Stopped by the Ulu Factory next to our hotel and really enjoyed it. The staff were knowledgeable about the knives' history and craft, and you can watch them being made. The shop is a bit touristy beyond the knives, but it’s worth it for authentic Alaskan Ulus."

Christian Nadavallil

What People Like

Watching knife making
Authentic Alaskan crafts
Unique souvenirs

What People Dislike

High prices

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Ulu Factory is conveniently located at 211 W. Ship Creek Ave in Anchorage. It's easily walkable from downtown Anchorage, taking C Street to 1st Street. InstagramReddit If driving, there's free 30-minute parking available on the side of the building. Reddit

Yes, the Ulu Factory is located right next to Ship Creek, offering a pleasant view and proximity to the waterfront area. Reddit

While specific bus routes aren't detailed, its downtown proximity suggests it's likely accessible via Anchorage's public transit system. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information.

Yes, there is free 30-minute parking available on the side of the building, which is very convenient for visitors. Reddit

It's a short and easy walk from downtown Anchorage, making it a great stop for those exploring the city center on foot. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the Ulu Factory and its viewing areas is generally free. You can watch the knife-making process and browse the shop without an admission fee. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, but typically the factory and shop are open during regular business hours. It's always a good idea to check their official website or call ahead for the most current hours, especially during off-season or holidays.

Yes, you can often watch the artisans at work through viewing windows. While direct workshop access might be limited, the windows provide a great look at the crafting process. InstagramReddit

There is no admission fee to enter the Ulu Factory, browse the shop, or watch the knife-making demonstrations through the windows. Reddit

While formal guided tours might not be a standard offering, the staff are knowledgeable and can provide information about the Ulu knives and their history. Reddit

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Products

The Ulu Factory offers a wide selection of Ulu knives in various sizes (5, 6, and 8 inches) and with different handle materials, ranging from basic to intricately hand-carved bone. Reddit

Prices can be on the higher side, as they are often handcrafted and made with quality materials, but many find them to be a worthwhile investment for their durability and authenticity. Reddit

Besides Ulu knives, the shop features a variety of other 'Alaska Only' items, including local crafts, souvenirs, and gift items, making it a comprehensive stop for Alaskan mementos. InstagramReddit

Many such factories offer online stores. It's recommended to check the official Ulu Factory website to see if they have an e-commerce option for purchasing their products remotely.

Absolutely! Many visitors and locals use Ulu knives for various kitchen tasks like cutting cheese, sausage, and vegetables, praising their effectiveness and unique design. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Generally, photography is allowed in the retail areas for personal use. However, it's always polite to ask before taking close-up shots of artisans or specific displays, especially if it might interfere with their work. Instagram

Capture the unique crescent shape of the Ulu knives, the intricate details of hand-carved handles, and the process of the knives being made through the workshop windows. The surrounding Ship Creek area also offers scenic views. Reddit

Yes, you can typically photograph the knife-making process through the viewing windows. This offers a fantastic opportunity to document the craftsmanship. Reddit

While personal photography is usually fine, avoid using flash photography directly at artisans if it might disturb them. Also, be mindful of other shoppers and respect their privacy. Instagram

Weekday mornings often have better lighting and fewer people, making it easier to get clear shots. However, the artisans are usually present throughout the day. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Ulu Factory offers a unique and engaging experience for families. Kids are often fascinated by watching the Ulu knives being made through the viewing windows, providing a hands-on (or rather, eyes-on!) lesson in craftsmanship. It’s a great way to spark curiosity about traditional skills and local culture. Reddit

Beyond the knife-making, the shop has a variety of Alaskan-themed souvenirs that can appeal to younger visitors, from plush moose toys to colorful trinkets. The free parking and walkable location from downtown also make it an accessible outing. Consider it a quick, educational, and fun stop that adds a distinct Alaskan flavor to your family's itinerary. InstagramReddit

🎁 Gift Shoppers

For those on the hunt for unique and authentic Alaskan gifts, the Ulu Factory is a must-visit. The star attraction, of course, is the wide array of Ulu knives, available in various sizes and styles, perfect for the home chef or collector. InstagramReddit

But don't stop there! The factory also boasts a diverse selection of local crafts and souvenirs. You'll find items that truly represent Alaska, from intricate carvings to charming moose-themed decor. It’s an excellent place to find meaningful presents that stand out from generic tourist fare and support local artisans. InstagramReddit

🚶 Solo Travelers & Couples

Solo travelers and couples will appreciate the Ulu Factory for its cultural insight and unique shopping experience. Watching the artisans at work offers a quiet, contemplative activity, providing a glimpse into traditional Alaskan skills. InstagramReddit

The opportunity to purchase a high-quality, authentic Ulu knife makes for a memorable souvenir or a practical tool to take home. The surrounding area near Ship Creek also offers pleasant views, making it a nice addition to a leisurely stroll through Anchorage. It’s a focused, enriching stop that doesn’t require a huge time commitment. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of the Ulu Knife

The Ulu knife, a traditional Alaskan cutting tool, is the star attraction at the Ulu Factory. Its distinctive crescent shape is designed for efficient chopping and slicing, making it incredibly versatile. Historically used by Inuit and other Indigenous peoples of the Arctic for everything from preparing food to skinning animals, the Ulu is a symbol of Alaskan heritage and ingenuity. At the factory, you can witness the craftsmanship firsthand through viewing windows, observing artisans shape and finish these unique blades. InstagramReddit

The factory offers a wide range of Ulu knives, catering to different needs and budgets. You'll find basic models perfect for everyday kitchen tasks like dicing vegetables or slicing cheese, as well as more elaborate versions featuring hand-carved bone handles or decorative elements. Each knife is a testament to the skill and tradition passed down through generations. Visitors often remark on the quality and beauty of the knives, with many purchasing them as practical tools or cherished souvenirs. Reddit

Beyond the knives themselves, the Ulu Factory provides context on the history and cultural significance of this iconic Alaskan tool. Understanding its origins and traditional uses adds a deeper appreciation to the product. Whether you're a culinary enthusiast, a collector of unique tools, or simply looking for an authentic piece of Alaska to take home, the Ulu Factory offers an insightful and engaging experience. Reddit

Beyond the Blades: Alaskan Souvenirs

While the Ulu knives are undoubtedly the main draw, the Ulu Factory's retail space is a treasure trove of authentic Alaskan crafts and souvenirs. Visitors often express delight at the variety of items available, which go far beyond typical tourist trinkets. You can find everything from locally made art and jewelry to cozy Alaskan-themed apparel and home decor. InstagramReddit

Look out for items featuring iconic Alaskan wildlife like moose, bears, and eagles, often depicted in carvings, prints, or embroidered designs. Many products highlight the natural beauty of the state, with motifs inspired by mountains, glaciers, and the Northern Lights. The emphasis is on locally sourced and handcrafted goods, ensuring that what you purchase is a genuine piece of Alaska. Reddit

This makes the Ulu Factory an ideal stop for anyone seeking meaningful gifts or mementos from their trip. The selection provides a wonderful opportunity to support local artisans and bring a piece of Alaskan culture back with you. It’s a place where you can find something special for everyone on your list, or a personal reminder of your Alaskan adventure. InstagramReddit