"Ketchikan is ..." exhibit at the Tongass Historical Museum
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Tongass Historical Museum

4.6
·387 reviews·Ketchikan, United States

Discover Ketchikan's vibrant history, from Tlingit culture to its salmon fishing legacy, with stunning views of Creek Street.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings/late afternoons

Avoid cruise ship crowds

CrowdLow
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"Ketchikan is ..." exhibit at the Tongass Historical Museum

Tongass Historical Museum

Best Time

Weekday mornings/late afternoons

Avoid cruise ship crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Ketchikan's vibrant history, from Tlingit culture to its salmon fishing legacy, with stunning views of Creek Street.

4.6
(387 reviews)

"An informative museum offering a true sense of the history, culture, and enduring spirit of Ketchikan."

Vertical photo
TIP

Free Admission Perks

Locals, seasonals, and their guests enjoy free admission! Consider a donation to support the museum.

Embrace the Rain

Ketchikan is known for rain. The museum offers a great indoor escape and fantastic views of Creek Street. :umbrella:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Indigenous History and Totem Poles

Indigenous History and Totem Poles

Exhibits

Explore the rich history of the Tlingit people and admire intricate totem poles that tell ancient stories.

Salmon City's Past

Salmon City's Past

Exhibits

Discover Ketchikan's heritage through displays on mining, fishing, and cannery life in this vibrant salmon city.

Creek Street Views

Creek Street Views

Museum windows

Enjoy picturesque views of the historic Creek Street, a former red-light district, from the museum's vantage point.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience

Ketchikan's weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers and rain gear! Many visitors arrive via cruise ship, leading to peak crowds midday. Consider visiting early or late in the day to avoid the rush and enjoy a more intimate experience with the exhibits.

Getting to the Museum

The Tongass Historical Museum is conveniently located near Creek Street. While walkable from the cruise ship docks, a free shuttle service is available, which is a lifesaver on rainy days. Check shuttle schedules to maximize your time.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings/late afternoons
Why
Avoid cruise ship crowds
Crowd
Low
When
During Artober Art Walk
Why
Special events and crafts
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Ketchikan Alaska 8th grade survival trip! #foryoupage #ketchikan #alaska #survivalist #onlyinalaska
@coreybrowneye
172.1K likes • 984.6K views

Free Admission Perks

Locals, seasonals, and their guests enjoy free admission! Consider a donation to support the museum. Instagram

Embrace the Rain

Ketchikan is known for rain. The museum offers a great indoor escape and fantastic views of Creek Street. :umbrella: Reddit

Tips for Ketchikan Alaska if you are going on a cruise to Alaska, you don’t want to miss Creek streets #alaskacruise #alaska #ketchikan #tipsforalaska #weliveonacruiseship #cruiseship #salmonrun
@dutchworld_americangirl
33.1K likes • 614.2K views
Visit the Totem Heritage Center and Tongass Historical Museum! Where it is always free admission for locals, seasonals, and their guests!!
ketchikanmuseums
13 likes • 237 views

Walkable Location

It's a pleasant walk from the cruise docks, or use the convenient free shuttle. :bus: Reddit

Informative Exhibits

Learn about the town's unique history, including its less savory past. :books: Reddit

We are at the Tongass Historical Museum for Artober Art Walk with a Kids Craft! #ketchikanarts
ketchikanpubliclibrary
9 likes • 242 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Free Admission Perks

Locals, seasonals, and their guests enjoy free admission! Consider a donation to support the museum. Instagram

Embrace the Rain

Ketchikan is known for rain. The museum offers a great indoor escape and fantastic views of Creek Street. :umbrella: Reddit

Walkable Location

It's a pleasant walk from the cruise docks, or use the convenient free shuttle. :bus: Reddit

Informative Exhibits

Learn about the town's unique history, including its less savory past. :books: Reddit

Don't Miss Totem Poles

See impressive totem poles that showcase the rich Tlingit culture. :statueofliberty: Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(387 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Tongass Historical Museum to be an informative and affordable stop, offering a valuable look into Ketchikan's rich history, from its indigenous roots to its salmon-fishing heritage. Many appreciate the insights into the town's less glamorous past and the picturesque views of Creek Street. While some found it small for the price, most agree it's a well-maintained and worthwhile visit, especially on a rainy day.

"Excellent exhibits and beautiful view of the creek!

The museum is affordable (under $10) and free for military! Be sure to donate.

The displays are informative, well kept, and specifically mention some of the more unsavory parts of history which is often overlooked or intentionally ignored for the glorification of colonialism.

Highly recommend."

VDms_

"It was a pleasant visit. Senior 65 and over admission. Well cared for building. Friendly staff. Located near Creek Street.
So much to see."

Rita Loeding

"It was an informative museum, but not very big, and not really worth the price of admission. It did give me a chance to get out of the torrential downpour, and I was able to take a few cool pics from inside, overlooking the creek."

Valerie Lyn

What People Like

Informative exhibits
Affordable admission
Creek Street views

What People Dislike

Small size
Price for some

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is a short, scenic walk from the cruise ship docks, approximately 20 minutes. If the weather is poor, a free shuttle bus stops right outside the museum, making it easily accessible even on rainy days. Reddit

While specific parking details aren't widely advertised, the museum's proximity to Creek Street means street parking might be available in the general area, though it can be limited. The free shuttle is often the most convenient option. Reddit

Yes, the museum is located in the heart of Ketchikan and is easily accessible on foot from most accommodations in town. Reddit

Ketchikan offers a free shuttle service that can be very helpful, especially for reaching attractions like the Tongass Historical Museum and Creek Street. Taxis are also available. Reddit

The museum is generally well-cared for, and staff are patient and helpful. While specific accessibility details aren't detailed, its location near Creek Street suggests it's designed for visitor access. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission is very affordable, typically under $10. Military personnel and locals often receive free admission, and donations are greatly appreciated. Reddit

Yes, locals, seasonals, and their guests enjoy free admission. Seniors (65 and over) may also have discounted rates. InstagramReddit

The museum typically closes around 5 PM, so it's best to plan your visit accordingly, especially if arriving late in the day. Some visitors have reported kind staff allowing entry even close to closing time. Reddit

Advance booking is generally not required for the Tongass Historical Museum. You can typically purchase tickets upon arrival. Reddit

Yes, the museum offers informative exhibits and sometimes hosts kids' crafts during events like Artober Art Walk, making it engaging for families. Instagram

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

You can explore exhibits on Ketchikan's history, including mining, fishing, the Tlingit culture, totem poles, and local life. The museum also offers great views of Creek Street. Reddit

A visit typically takes 1-2 hours, allowing time to read through the information and appreciate the exhibits. Reddit

While not always explicitly advertised, friendly staff are available to explain exhibits and provide information. Some visitors wished for more lively guided tours. Reddit

Creek Street was historically Ketchikan's red-light district and is now a charming boardwalk lined with shops and galleries, offering a unique glimpse into the town's past. TikTok+1

The museum focuses on informative displays detailing Ketchikan's history. While not heavily interactive, the exhibits are well-presented and engaging. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The museum offers excellent vantage points for photographing the historic Creek Street, especially from its windows. The exhibits themselves, particularly totem poles, also make for great shots. Reddit

Photography is generally allowed inside the museum, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on flash photography or certain exhibits. Reddit

The lighting can vary throughout the day. Midday might offer brighter light, while late afternoon could provide softer, more atmospheric conditions for capturing Creek Street. TikTok

The entire Creek Street area is a photographer's dream, with its colorful houses on stilts and boardwalk. The museum's location puts you right in the heart of it. TikTok

Yes, the totem poles are a significant part of the exhibits and are excellent subjects for photography. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Tongass Historical Museum is a great stop for families looking for an educational and engaging experience. The exhibits on local history, including fishing and totem poles, can spark curiosity in children. InstagramReddit The museum sometimes hosts kids' crafts during special events like Artober Art Walk, making it even more interactive. Instagram

Given Ketchikan's often rainy weather, the museum provides a welcome indoor activity. The free shuttle service is also a bonus for families, making it easy to get to and from the museum without a long, potentially wet walk. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to ensure a more relaxed experience for younger children.

💰 Budget Travelers

The Tongass Historical Museum is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers. With affordable admission prices and free entry for locals and military, it offers significant value. Reddit Even if you're not eligible for free entry, the cost is minimal, and donations are encouraged to support the museum's preservation efforts. Reddit

Furthermore, the free shuttle service in Ketchikan means you can easily access the museum and other attractions without incurring transportation costs. Walking from the cruise port is also a viable and free option, allowing you to soak in the local atmosphere without spending a dime.

🚢 Cruise Ship Passengers

For cruise ship passengers, the Tongass Historical Museum is a highly recommended and easily accessible shore excursion. It's a short walk from the cruise docks, offering a chance to explore Ketchikan's history and culture without needing to book an expensive ship tour. Reddit

If the weather is inclement, the free shuttle service is a convenient way to reach the museum and the popular Creek Street. The museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the 'Salmon Capital of the World' and its unique past, offering a more in-depth understanding of the destination beyond the typical tourist shops. TikTokReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Ketchikan's Rich History: From Indigenous Roots to Salmon Capital

The Tongass Historical Museum serves as a gateway to understanding Ketchikan's multifaceted past. Its exhibits delve deep into the Tlingit culture, showcasing the enduring legacy of the indigenous people who have called this region home for millennia. You'll find detailed information and visual representations of their traditions, art, and connection to the land and sea. Reddit

Beyond its indigenous heritage, Ketchikan's identity is intrinsically linked to the salmon industry. The museum vividly portrays the town's evolution as the 'Salmon Capital of the World,' detailing the boom and bust cycles of fishing, the operation of canneries, and the lives of the people who depended on this vital resource. You'll also learn about the town's mining history and its more recent developments, offering a comprehensive narrative of Ketchikan's journey. Reddit

One of the most compelling aspects of the museum is its willingness to present an unvarnished look at history, including the less glamorous periods. This approach provides a more complete and nuanced understanding of the forces that shaped Ketchikan into the unique community it is today. The displays are well-maintained and informative, making it a valuable stop for anyone interested in Alaskan history. Reddit

Navigating Ketchikan: Transportation and Accessibility

For visitors arriving by cruise ship, Ketchikan offers a surprisingly accessible experience, even for those on a budget. The Tongass Historical Museum is conveniently located within walking distance of the cruise ship docks, making it an easy destination to reach without needing additional transportation. Reddit

However, Ketchikan's weather can be a significant factor, with frequent rainfall. To combat this, the town provides a free shuttle service that operates regularly and stops near key attractions, including the museum and the iconic Creek Street. This shuttle is a lifesaver on wet days and allows visitors to explore comfortably without getting soaked. Reddit

For those who prefer to explore on foot, the area around the museum and Creek Street is pedestrian-friendly. The historic boardwalk of Creek Street itself is a unique experience, offering a glimpse into the town's past while providing charming shops and galleries. The museum's staff are known for being patient and helpful, further enhancing the visitor experience regardless of how you choose to get around. Reddit

Capturing Ketchikan's Charm: Photography Tips

Ketchikan, with its colorful waterfront and historic architecture, is a photographer's delight. The Tongass Historical Museum itself offers some of the best opportunities to capture the essence of the town, particularly its famous Creek Street. The museum's windows provide elevated views of the picturesque boardwalk, allowing you to frame shots of the houses on stilts and the surrounding natural beauty. TikTokReddit

When visiting Creek Street, take advantage of the unique perspective it offers. The houses on stilts are a signature feature, and capturing them against the backdrop of the water and lush greenery can result in stunning images. Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light, ideal for photography, though Ketchikan's often overcast skies can also create a moody, atmospheric effect. TikTok

Beyond Creek Street, keep an eye out for the totem poles scattered throughout Ketchikan, including those displayed at the museum. These intricate carvings are not only culturally significant but also visually striking. While the museum itself is a great subject, don't forget to explore the surrounding streets for vibrant storefronts, fishing boats, and the dramatic Alaskan landscape that defines this charming seaside town. TikTokInstagram

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