Ulu Factory
Witness traditional Ulu knife craftsmanship and shop for authentic Alaskan crafts and souvenirs.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better viewing
Ulu Factory
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness traditional Ulu knife craftsmanship and shop for authentic Alaskan crafts and souvenirs.
"A cool place to see knives being made and find unique Alaskan gifts."
🎯 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
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
Retail shop
Discover a wide array of locally made souvenirs, from intricate carvings to moose-themed treasures.

Variety of Ulu Knives
Retail shop
Explore different sizes and handle materials, from basic to hand-carved bone, for practical use or display.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Watch the Ulu Knife Craftsmanship
Gifts & Souvenirs Galore
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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.
🅿️ Convenient Parking
Free 30-minute parking is available right next to the building.
🚶 Walkable from Downtown
Easily accessible on foot from downtown Anchorage via C Street.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 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.
🅿️ Convenient Parking
Free 30-minute parking is available right next to the building.
🚶 Walkable from Downtown
Easily accessible on foot from downtown Anchorage via C Street.
🔪 Practical & Beautiful
Ulu knives are great for cutting cheese, sausage, and more!
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
If driving, there's free 30-minute parking available on the side of the building.Yes, the Ulu Factory is located right next to Ship Creek, offering a pleasant view and proximity to the waterfront area.
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.
It's a short and easy walk from downtown Anchorage, making it a great stop for those exploring the city center on foot.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
There is no admission fee to enter the Ulu Factory, browse the shop, or watch the knife-making demonstrations through the windows.
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.
🎫 🛍️ 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.
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.
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.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
Yes, you can typically photograph the knife-making process through the viewing windows. This offers a fantastic opportunity to document the craftsmanship.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🎁 Gift Shoppers
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.
🚶 Solo Travelers & Couples
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of the Ulu Knife
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.
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.
Beyond the Blades: Alaskan Souvenirs
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.
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.
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