Alaska State Museum
Explore Alaska's rich Indigenous heritage, fascinating history, and vibrant art scene in this well-curated Juneau museum.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the cruise ship crowds
Alaska State Museum
Best Time
Beat the cruise ship crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Alaska's rich Indigenous heritage, fascinating history, and vibrant art scene in this well-curated Juneau museum.
"A wonderful museum with loads of information about the native peoples and the overall history of Alaska, good and bad."
Allocate Enough Time
Give yourself 1.5-3 hours to truly absorb the exhibits. Rushing through misses key insights.
Respectful Engagement
Approach exhibits on Indigenous history with sensitivity and an open mind.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Alaska Native Culture
Indigenous Peoples Exhibits
Explore rich artifacts, gut jackets, and learn about the diverse heritage and deep connection to land.
Historical Journey
Main Galleries
Trace Alaska's timeline from native peoples to statehood, with well-presented exhibits.
Interactive Kids' Area
Children's Section
Engage young minds with drawing supplies, crafts, and a fun play ship.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Cultural Sensitivity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Allocate Enough Time
Give yourself 1.5-3 hours to truly absorb the exhibits. Rushing through misses key insights.
Respectful Engagement
Approach exhibits on Indigenous history with sensitivity and an open mind.
Check for Special Exhibits
The museum hosts rotating solo artist exhibits, adding unique artistic perspectives.
Kid-Friendly Fun
The dedicated children's area offers crafts and a play ship for younger visitors.
Tips
from all over the internet
Allocate Enough Time
Give yourself 1.5-3 hours to truly absorb the exhibits. Rushing through misses key insights.
Respectful Engagement
Approach exhibits on Indigenous history with sensitivity and an open mind.
Check for Special Exhibits
The museum hosts rotating solo artist exhibits, adding unique artistic perspectives.
Kid-Friendly Fun
The dedicated children's area offers crafts and a play ship for younger visitors.
Parking & Admission
Free parking is available. General admission is $14, with free entry for active military.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Alaska State Museum for its comprehensive and respectful portrayal of Alaska Native cultures and its well-organized historical exhibits. The interactive children's area is a hit with families. However, some guests expressed disappointment with the limited scope of the natural science and geology sections.
"We took a quick visit before a whale watching tour, since we wanted to learn about the history of the area.
I really enjoyed how it took you through time starting with the native people and their culture and artifacts, followed by the various modern colonizing groups and their effects on the area, and then into the eventual statehood of Alaska.
There are multiple clean bathrooms, the museum is clean, perfectly lit, has a great layout, words are easy to read, the items on display are in wonderful condition and displayed well. There is a kids area with supplies to draw and make crafts as well as play on a ship. Overall it's a good experience that will take about 1 hour to get through. I would reccomend going her if you are in Juneau."
Jared
"A wonderful museum with loads of information about the native peoples and the overall history of Alaska, good and bad. Allot enough time to take it all in; we were there ninety minutes; a few hours would not have been wasted. Nothing but praise for the good work done by this museum; the presentation and technology was terrific."
Dennis Corrick
"This museum takes you on a trip through Alaska's history and peoples, with well-organized exhibits. We were glad to see the emphasis on Alaska Native people. There was no evidence of editing history for political purposes.
Four of us visited from our cruise ship for about an hour and a half. It was time well spent."
Jenny Kotora-Lynch
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Alaska State Museum is located in Juneau, Alaska. Many visitors arrive via cruise ship. From the cruise port, it's a walkable distance or a short taxi/rideshare to the museum. +1
Yes, there is free parking available at the Alaska State Museum, which is a convenient option if you're driving.
Many cruise visitors explore Juneau on foot, visiting attractions like the museum, whale statue, and local shops. +1
Yes, the museum is within walking distance from the cruise ship terminal in Juneau, making it an accessible stop for many visitors.
Juneau has a public bus system, though many cruise ship excursions and independent explorations are done on foot or via taxi/rideshare.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission for adults is $14. Active military members and their families can receive free admission for up to 5 people.
Active military personnel and their families receive free admission for up to 5 people. Check with the museum for any other potential discounts.
Museum hours can vary, especially with cruise ship schedules. It's best to check the official Alaska State Museum website for the most up-to-date opening hours before your visit.
While advance ticket purchase might be an option, many visitors purchase tickets upon arrival. It's advisable to check the museum's official website for their ticketing policy.
The museum is generally accessible, with clean bathrooms and a well-laid-out design. It's recommended to contact the museum directly for specific accessibility needs.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Highlights include the extensive Alaska Native culture exhibits, featuring artifacts like gut jackets, and the historical journey through Alaska's past. +1
Most visitors spend about 1 to 1.5 hours at the museum, but a few hours would not be wasted if you want to delve deeper into the exhibits.
Yes, there's a dedicated kids' area with drawing supplies, craft materials, and a play ship, making it engaging for younger visitors.
The museum showcases Indigenous art, local art, and often features rotating solo artist exhibits, providing a diverse artistic experience. 
While the museum focuses heavily on culture and history, some visitors have noted a desire for more extensive exhibits on geology, volcanos, and glaciers.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself does not typically have a cafe or restaurant. However, Juneau offers numerous dining options nearby.
Juneau has various dining options, from seafood shacks like Tracy's King Crab Shack to other local eateries. Exploring the downtown area near the museum will provide many choices.
Generally, food and drinks are not permitted inside museum galleries to protect the exhibits. It's best to consume them outside or in designated areas if available.
For authentic Alaskan seafood, consider places like Tracy's King Crab Shack, which is a popular spot mentioned by visitors.
While Juneau can be pricey, exploring local cafes and casual eateries can offer more budget-friendly choices compared to high-end restaurants.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is often permitted, but it's best to check for specific signage or ask museum staff.
The intricate Alaska Native artifacts, the 'Transcend' gut parka installation, and the overall layout of the exhibits offer visually striking opportunities.
Some visitors have noted large ravens outside the museum as a unique photo subject, though this is not part of the museum's exhibits.
For general Juneau photography, consider the 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset for softer light, though museum interiors are typically well-lit.
Yes, the whale fountain is a popular photo spot in Juneau, and it's often mentioned as a landmark to see.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚢 Cruise Ship Passengers
📚 History Buffs & Culture Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Alaska Native Heritage
Visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the cultural practices, spiritual beliefs, and deep connection to the land that have been preserved for generations. The museum strives to present these narratives with respect and authenticity, offering a crucial perspective on Alaska's history.It's important for visitors to approach these exhibits with an open mind and a willingness to learn about the complex histories, including the challenges and injustices faced by Indigenous communities. The museum's presentation aims to foster awareness and appreciation for the resilience and enduring legacy of Alaska Native cultures. This section is often highlighted by visitors as a particularly impactful part of their museum experience.
Beyond the tangible artifacts, the museum often incorporates multimedia elements and storytelling to bring these histories to life. This immersive approach allows for a more profound connection to the people and traditions that are foundational to Alaska's identity. Engaging with these exhibits is a key part of understanding the true spirit of Alaska.
A Journey Through Alaskan History
Visitors often praise the museum for its well-organized displays and clear presentation of information. The text is easy to read, and the artifacts are displayed in a manner that enhances their significance. This thoughtful curation makes it easier for guests to follow the historical progression and understand the impact of various events and groups on Alaska's development.
While the museum covers a broad spectrum of history, some visitors have expressed a desire for more in-depth exploration of specific scientific aspects, such as geology and natural phenomena like glaciers and volcanos. However, the core historical narrative, particularly its focus on the Indigenous perspective and the journey to statehood, is widely appreciated and considered a valuable educational experience.
Engaging Young Explorers
One of the standout features for families is the play ship, offering a hands-on experience that sparks imagination and provides a break from traditional exhibit viewing. This thoughtful inclusion ensures that the museum is not only educational but also enjoyable for families traveling with children, making it a well-rounded destination for all ages.
The presence of this interactive zone is frequently mentioned by reviewers as a positive aspect, contributing to a more relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere. It allows parents to explore the main exhibits while knowing their children have a stimulating and safe space to play.
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