Wickersham State Historic Site Juneau Alaska
Explore the preserved home of Judge Wickersham, a key figure in Alaska's territorial past, offering a glimpse into history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
Wickersham State Historic Site Juneau Alaska
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the preserved home of Judge Wickersham, a key figure in Alaska's territorial past, offering a glimpse into history.
"A cool little historic site, impressive that his house has survived all this time."
🎯 Check Cruise Ship Schedule
Plan your visit around cruise ship arrivals to avoid peak crowds.
📚 Research Judge Wickersham
Understand his complex legacy for a richer visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wickersham's Historic Home
First Floor
Step back in time in the preserved residence of Judge James Wickersham, a key figure in Alaska's territorial era.
Engaging Docent Tours
Throughout the house
Gain insights from knowledgeable guides who bring Judge Wickersham's life and the home's history to life.
Neighborhood Charm
Surrounding streets
Explore the picturesque neighborhood with its beautiful homes, offering a pleasant stroll before or after your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Understand the History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Cruise Ship Schedule
Plan your visit around cruise ship arrivals to avoid peak crowds.
📚 Research Judge Wickersham
Understand his complex legacy for a richer visit.
🚶♀️ Explore the Neighborhood
Enjoy a pleasant walk through the historic streets surrounding the site.
📞 Call Ahead for Hours
Confirm operating hours, as they can change.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Cruise Ship Schedule
Plan your visit around cruise ship arrivals to avoid peak crowds.
📚 Research Judge Wickersham
Understand his complex legacy for a richer visit.
🚶♀️ Explore the Neighborhood
Enjoy a pleasant walk through the historic streets surrounding the site.
📞 Call Ahead for Hours
Confirm operating hours, as they can change.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Wickersham State Historic Site a cool, well-preserved piece of Alaska's territorial history, often praising the engaging docents. However, some note the importance of understanding Judge Wickersham's complex and sometimes controversial legacy, which adds a layer of critical reflection to the visit. Occasional issues with outdated opening hours information have been reported.
"Cool little historic site. Wickersham was an important figure in Alaska's territorial days, and it's impressive that his house has survived all this time. Only the first floor is available for exploring."
Norman Tweet
"NOTE: I did this tour in 2017.
Standard historical house tour with an excellent, warm, and inviting tour guide. That said, I would recommend reading up about Judge Wickersham - he had some noteworthy foibles, particularly involving a history of discriminative actions against Asian Americans and of being a seemingly pathological liar. Despite that, the home itself is well-kept and it's always worth taking the opportunity to revisit a piece of history, if only to increase our awareness of how things came to be."
Junnie Chup
"I was a dental student from Portland, Oregon and spent the summers of 1966 and 1967 driving taxi for Yellow Cab in Juneau. I took many tourists to the "House of Wickersham" to listen to Ruth Alman's {niece of the judge] historical narratives. She served sourdough pancakes and rose hip jam after the lecture. Before leaving my last summer in 1967, she gave me her sourdough starter. I have kept it viable to this day."
Fay Lee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Wickersham State Historic Site is located in Juneau, Alaska. While specific public transport details aren't widely shared, it's generally accessible by car or taxi from downtown Juneau. Many visitors arrive via cruise ship, and the site is a short distance from the cruise port.
It is a walkable distance from the cruise port, though the exact time will depend on your pace and the specific dock you arrive at. Consider the weather and your mobility when deciding whether to walk or take a short taxi ride.
Parking information for the immediate vicinity of the historic site is not extensively detailed. If driving, inquire locally or look for public parking areas in downtown Juneau and plan for a walk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, and it's crucial to check the official website or call ahead. The site has experienced closures, including extended periods due to COVID-19, so verifying current operating status is essential.
Advance ticket purchase information is not readily available. It's best to assume tickets can be purchased upon arrival, but checking the official site or calling ahead is recommended, especially during peak season.
Admission fees are not consistently published online. It's advisable to check the official website or contact the site directly for the most up-to-date pricing information.
Information regarding accessibility for visitors with disabilities is limited. Given it's a historic house, access may be restricted to certain areas. It's recommended to contact the site directly to inquire about specific accessibility features.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attraction is touring the first floor of Judge Wickersham's historic home, guided by knowledgeable docents. You can also explore the surrounding neighborhood with its charming houses.
A visit typically takes about an hour, allowing time for the guided tour and a brief exploration of the immediate surroundings.
Information on multilingual tours is not readily available. Tours are generally conducted in English.
Photography policies inside historic homes can vary. It's best to ask your docent upon arrival about any restrictions on interior photography.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the historic house offers charming architectural details for photos. The surrounding neighborhood also provides picturesque street scenes with historic homes.
Photography rules inside historic buildings can be strict to protect artifacts. Always confirm with your guide before taking pictures indoors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families looking for more interactive experiences in Juneau, other attractions like the Mendenhall Glacier and Nugget Falls, or the Goldbelt Tram, might be more suitable.
🚢 Cruise Ship Passengers
To maximize your time and budget, consider booking tours independently once you disembark rather than through the cruise line.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Judge Wickersham: A Complex Legacy
However, it's important to approach Wickersham's legacy with a critical eye. As noted by some visitors, he had a history of discriminatory actions against Asian Americans and was known for embellishing stories. Understanding these complexities adds depth to the historical experience, encouraging reflection on how history is recorded and remembered.
Despite the controversies, the house itself is a well-maintained piece of history. Visiting the site offers an opportunity to engage with Alaska's past, acknowledging both its achievements and its less savory aspects. The guided tours, often led by enthusiastic docents, provide valuable context and personal anecdotes, making the visit both educational and engaging.
Navigating Juneau's Cruise Ship Scene
To make the most of your time in Juneau, especially if you're on a cruise, it's wise to research the number of ships in port on your visit day. Days with fewer ships generally mean fewer crowds at popular spots. Some visitors have found that by late afternoon, after many cruise passengers have returned to their ships, attractions become less crowded.
When planning your Juneau itinerary, consider that some cruise lines are reducing Juneau from their itineraries, making it even more important to book or plan accordingly if it's a priority for you.
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