
Totem Heritage Center
Discover the rich heritage of Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian cultures through a stunning collection of preserved totem poles and native artistry.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Totem Heritage Center
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the rich heritage of Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian cultures through a stunning collection of preserved totem poles and native artistry.
"Super informative museum that preserves the cultural heritage of Totem poles and other hand weaved and made items."

🚶♀️ Walk or Shuttle?
It's a bit uphill from the dock, but walkable. Free shuttles are also available! :bus:
💰 Affordable Entry
Admission is around $6 for adults, with free entry for kids under 17 and military. :ticket:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Preserved Totem Poles
Main Exhibition Hall
Marvel at a vast collection of preserved totem poles, showcasing intricate carvings and rich cultural stories.

Native Weaving Artistry
Exhibition Hall
Explore an expansive section dedicated to native weaving artistry, highlighting the skill and tradition of local tribes.

Clan House Replica
Exhibition Hall
Step inside a replica clan house to gain a deeper understanding of Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian cultural practices.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Getting There & Admission
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk or Shuttle?
It's a bit uphill from the dock, but walkable. Free shuttles are also available! :bus:
💰 Affordable Entry
Admission is around $6 for adults, with free entry for kids under 17 and military. :ticket:
🕰️ Quick Visit Possible
You can see the highlights in 20-30 mins, but allow more time for deeper exploration. :stopwatch:
📚 Learn the Stories
Each pole tells a story! Take time to read the descriptions to understand their cultural significance. :books:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk or Shuttle?
It's a bit uphill from the dock, but walkable. Free shuttles are also available! :bus:
💰 Affordable Entry
Admission is around $6 for adults, with free entry for kids under 17 and military. :ticket:
🕰️ Quick Visit Possible
You can see the highlights in 20-30 mins, but allow more time for deeper exploration. :stopwatch:
📚 Learn the Stories
Each pole tells a story! Take time to read the descriptions to understand their cultural significance. :books:
📸 Respectful Photography
Photos are generally allowed, but be mindful and respectful of the cultural artifacts. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Totem Heritage Center for its well-preserved collection of totem poles and insightful exhibits on Indigenous culture. Many find it to be a highly informative and worthwhile stop, appreciating the affordability and the opportunity to learn about Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian heritage. Some note that it can be a quick visit, while others suggest allowing ample time to absorb the rich history and artistry.
"It is a very nice museum with a lot of examples of native carvings and totem poles for your viewing pleasure. Right next to a fish hatchery, unfortunately closed to the public, and a public park which is well maintained across a bridge from the parking area. Would recommend as it is so we'll done and kept very well."
Sea Hawk
"Visited here in June 2025. Walked here from the dock and followed the creek. There are buses that will drop you off, but if you are out walking around town, you can make it by foot. Entry was six dollars. It was cool to see the history and old totems. Worth stopping in if you like history. Only spent 20 to 30 minutes to see the whole museum."
Josh H
"Totally worth going if you like history, culture, and art. There is a free shuttle you can take from town, it's part of a loop that includes the salmon run. You learn a lot about history of the local tribes. Highly recommend. Can easily spend a couple hours. We walked from town there, BUT it's a little long and uphill!"
RicK
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can walk from the cruise dock, though it's a bit of an uphill trek. Alternatively, free shuttles often run as part of a loop that includes the center, making it easily accessible.
Yes, parking is available near the center. It's also located across a bridge from a public park, making it convenient for those exploring the area on foot.
Taxis are readily available in Ketchikan and can take you directly to the Totem Heritage Center. It's a short ride from most areas in town.
While specific accessibility details can vary, many museums strive to be accessible. It's recommended to contact the center directly for the most up-to-date information on wheelchair access.
Ketchikan boasts the largest collection of standing traditional totem poles in the world. You can see many around town, but the Totem Heritage Center offers a concentrated and informative experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The admission fee is typically around $6 for adults. Children under 17 are usually admitted free of charge, and discounts may be available for seniors. Active military and their families often receive free admission.
Yes, children under 17 often get in free, and active military personnel and their families may also have free admission. Locals and seasonals might also have special arrangements.
Operating hours can vary by season. It's best to check the official Totem Heritage Center website or contact them directly for the most current information on opening and closing times.
Advance booking is generally not required for the Totem Heritage Center, especially during non-peak times. You can usually purchase tickets upon arrival.
Some tour packages or city passes might include admission to the Totem Heritage Center. It's advisable to check the details of any pass or tour you are considering.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
A quick visit to see the main exhibits can take around 20-30 minutes. However, if you want to delve deeper into the history and artistry, you could easily spend a couple of hours.
You'll find a significant collection of preserved totem poles, showcasing Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian cultures. There are also exhibits on native weaving artistry and a replica clan house.
Yes, children under 17 often get free admission and can be captivated by the large totem poles and the stories they represent. It's an educational and visually engaging experience.
Photography is generally permitted inside the Totem Heritage Center, but it's important to be respectful of the artifacts and other visitors. Avoid flash photography if it's prohibited.
While not always explicitly advertised, staff members are often available to provide insights. Inquire upon arrival about any informal tours or information sessions. Some local tours also visit the center.
📸 📸 Photography
The totem poles themselves are the main subjects, offering dramatic and colorful photo opportunities. The replica clan house also provides a unique backdrop.
It's best to assume flash photography is not allowed to protect the delicate artifacts. Always look for signage or ask staff if you're unsure.
A camera with good low-light capabilities is beneficial, especially if visiting during dimmer hours. A wide-angle lens can help capture the full scale of the larger poles.
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around cultural heritage sites and museums to ensure the safety and preservation of the exhibits. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
Beyond the Totem Heritage Center, many totem poles are scattered throughout Ketchikan, particularly along Creek Street and in Saxman Native Village. The 'Eagle Statue' is also a notable landmark.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making it part of a larger Ketchikan exploration that includes the nearby salmon hatchery or a walk through the park. The interactive nature of understanding the carvings can be engaging for kids, and it offers a great opportunity to discuss history and art in a tangible way. Remember to bring comfortable shoes if you plan to walk from the cruise port. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with exploring Ketchikan on foot or utilizing the free city shuttles. Many of the town's other attractions, like Creek Street and various totem pole viewing areas, are free to wander. This makes the Totem Heritage Center a cost-effective way to gain significant cultural insight without breaking the bank. :moneywithwings:
🚢 Cruise Ship Passengers
Many cruise excursions include visits to totem pole sites, but visiting the center independently allows for a more self-paced experience. It provides a concentrated dose of history and art that complements the broader Alaskan cultural experiences offered on your cruise. Allocate about an hour to fully appreciate the exhibits. :cruise_ship:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of Totem Poles
Historically, totem poles were erected outside homes or in village centers to commemorate important events, honor ancestors, or assert a clan's rights and privileges. The figures carved on the poles are not deities but rather representations of the natural world and the spiritual connections the people have with it. Understanding these narratives is key to appreciating the depth of cultural heritage preserved at the Totem Heritage Center.
By the early 20th century, many totem poles faced neglect or destruction due to assimilation policies. The preservation efforts highlighted at the Totem Heritage Center are crucial for safeguarding this vital cultural legacy. The center showcases poles that have been recovered or recreated, offering a tangible link to the past and a testament to the resilience of these Indigenous cultures.
Exploring Ketchikan's Cultural Landscape
Creek Street, a historic boardwalk built over the water, is a must-visit, offering a glimpse into Ketchikan's past as a bustling red-light district and a hub for fishermen. Nearby, Dolly's House Museum provides further insight into the town's colorful history. For those interested in contemporary Indigenous art, exploring local galleries can reveal stunning works by modern Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian artists.
Don't miss the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show for a dose of local entertainment and a look at a traditional industry. For a taste of local cuisine, especially salmon, the Alaska Fish House and Alaska King Crab Co. are highly recommended. The Totem Heritage Center often serves as a starting or ending point for exploring these diverse attractions, making it a central piece of the Ketchikan visitor experience.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit