Loring Historic Cannery
Step back in time at the Loring Historic Cannery, a preserved relic of Ketchikan's vital salmon fishing past, accessible by scenic boat tours.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Loring Historic Cannery
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at the Loring Historic Cannery, a preserved relic of Ketchikan's vital salmon fishing past, accessible by scenic boat tours.
"Super cool to learn about this part of Ketchikan's history, and our tour guide Thomas was super knowledgeable and engaging!"
Book Tours in Advance
Secure your spot on popular boat tours to the cannery, especially during cruise season. :admission_tickets:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking through a historic site and a wooded area, so sturdy footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Cannery Machinery
Museum Area
Explore the preserved machinery that once processed salmon, offering a tangible link to Ketchikan's rich fishing heritage.
Knowledgeable Tour Guides
Throughout the Cannery
Engage with passionate guides who bring the cannery's past to life with fascinating stories and historical context.
Scenic Boat Ride
Waterway to the Cannery
Enjoy a picturesque journey to the cannery, often part of a zodiac tour, offering stunning views of the Alaskan coastline.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Getting There & Tours
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Tours in Advance
Secure your spot on popular boat tours to the cannery, especially during cruise season. :admission_tickets:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking through a historic site and a wooded area, so sturdy footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
Listen to Your Guide
Tour guides offer invaluable insights into the cannery's history and operations. :microphone:
Watch Your Step
The historic machinery and grounds can be uneven; supervise small children closely. :child:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Tours in Advance
Secure your spot on popular boat tours to the cannery, especially during cruise season. :admission_tickets:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking through a historic site and a wooded area, so sturdy footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
Listen to Your Guide
Tour guides offer invaluable insights into the cannery's history and operations. :microphone:
Watch Your Step
The historic machinery and grounds can be uneven; supervise small children closely. :child:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Loring Historic Cannery for its fascinating historical insights and the engaging nature of the guided tours. The scenic boat ride to the site is also a significant draw, offering beautiful Alaskan vistas. While generally well-received, some mention the need for careful supervision of children due to the historic nature of the site.
"Super cool to learn about this part of Ketchikan's history, and our tour guide Thomas was super knowledgeable and engaging!"
Brooke Lever
"Tour guides add a lot of helpful information. Museum area has machinery used in the cannery process. Small kids need to be careful where they walk. Short walk through wooded area to get to the cannery."
Michael B.
"Great boat ride and love the old cannery"
Harold Roussell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Loring Historic Cannery is primarily accessible by boat tours departing from Ketchikan. Many cruise ship excursions include this destination, offering a convenient way to visit. Independent travelers can also book boat or zodiac tours with local operators for a scenic journey to the cannery. +1
No, public transportation does not directly serve the Loring Historic Cannery. Access is exclusively via boat tours from Ketchikan.
The boat trip duration can vary depending on the tour operator and itinerary, but generally expect a scenic ride of 30-60 minutes each way from Ketchikan.
The Loring Historic Cannery is located in a remote area and is not accessible by road. Boat transportation is the only way to reach it.
Tours often utilize zodiacs or other small boats, providing an intimate and adventurous way to experience the Alaskan waters on your way to the cannery.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is highly recommended to book your boat tour and cannery visit in advance, especially during the peak tourist season to ensure availability.
The cost typically includes the boat tour and guided visit to the cannery. Prices vary by tour operator, but expect it to be part of a larger excursion package.
The cannery is generally open for tours during the summer months. Specific operating hours are tied to the tour schedules offered by local operators.
While you can explore the grounds, guided tours are highly recommended to fully appreciate the history and machinery. Access is usually managed by tour operators.
A typical tour includes the boat ride to the cannery, a guided walk-through of the historic site, and explanations of the machinery and its historical significance.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the preserved cannery buildings, see historic machinery, learn about Ketchikan's salmon fishing history from knowledgeable guides, and enjoy the scenic surroundings.
Yes, but with caution. While children can learn a lot, they need to be supervised closely due to uneven terrain and historic machinery.
A typical visit, including the boat ride and guided tour, can last anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on the tour operator's itinerary.
Restroom facilities are usually available at the cannery site for visitors.
The terrain includes a short walk through a wooded area and the historic cannery buildings, which may have uneven floors and surfaces. Comfortable footwear is essential.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the historic machinery, the rustic architecture of the cannery, and the beautiful Alaskan coastal scenery during your visit. The boat ride itself offers great photo ops.
Photography is generally allowed inside the cannery buildings, but always be mindful of your surroundings and any specific restrictions mentioned by your guide.
Morning visits often provide softer light and fewer crowds, making for better photography conditions.
Drone usage regulations can be strict in protected areas. It's best to check with your tour operator or local authorities before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the scale of the machinery and buildings, while a telephoto lens can be great for coastal views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When exploring the cannery, remind children to be mindful of their surroundings, as the historic site may have uneven surfaces and delicate equipment. The guided tours can be adapted to be more engaging for kids, with guides often happy to answer their questions. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as options at the cannery itself may be limited.
🚢 Cruise Ship Passengers
These tours often include a scenic boat ride, which is a fantastic way to see the Alaskan coastline and potentially spot wildlife. The guided tour of the cannery itself is informative and provides excellent photo opportunities. It's a great way to experience a different facet of Ketchikan's heritage beyond the typical cruise port offerings.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Salmon Canning in Ketchikan
During its operational years, the Loring Cannery was a hub of activity, employing many local residents. The process involved skilled workers who would meticulously prepare and can the salmon. The machinery on display at the Loring Historic Cannery showcases the ingenuity of the time, from filleting machines to the canning and sealing equipment. Learning about these processes provides a unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs of early Alaskan industry.
Understanding this history enriches the visitor experience, transforming a simple tour into an educational journey. It highlights Ketchikan's resilience and its enduring connection to the natural resources of Alaska. The cannery is not just a collection of old machines; it's a monument to the people who built this town and its economy.
Experiencing the Alaskan Wilderness
The short walk through the wooded area to reach the cannery provides an immersive taste of the Alaskan wilderness. The air is crisp, and the sounds of nature surround you. This natural setting complements the historical significance of the cannery, offering a peaceful contrast to the industrial past. It’s a chance to appreciate the environment that sustained both the wildlife and the industry.
Many visitors combine their cannery tour with other Ketchikan activities, such as exploring Creek Street, known for its colorful historic buildings on stilts, or enjoying local seafood. The overall experience in Ketchikan is a blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and the awe-inspiring power of the Alaskan outdoors.
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