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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Avoid cruise ship crowds

Tongass Historical Museum
Best Time
Avoid cruise ship crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Ketchikan's vibrant history, from Tlingit culture to its salmon fishing legacy, with stunning views of Creek Street.
"An informative museum offering a true sense of the history, culture, and enduring spirit of Ketchikan."

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:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

Creek Street Views
Museum windows
Enjoy picturesque views of the historic Creek Street, a former red-light district, from the museum's vantage point.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Getting to the Museum
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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:
Walkable Location
It's a pleasant walk from the cruise docks, or use the convenient free shuttle. :bus:
Informative Exhibits
Learn about the town's unique history, including its less savory past. :books:
Tips
from all over the internet
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:
Walkable Location
It's a pleasant walk from the cruise docks, or use the convenient free shuttle. :bus:
Informative Exhibits
Learn about the town's unique history, including its less savory past. :books:
Don't Miss Totem Poles
See impressive totem poles that showcase the rich Tlingit culture. :statueofliberty:
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
Yes, the museum is located in the heart of Ketchikan and is easily accessible on foot from most accommodations in town.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is very affordable, typically under $10. Military personnel and locals often receive free admission, and donations are greatly appreciated.
Yes, locals, seasonals, and their guests enjoy free admission. Seniors (65 and over) may also have discounted rates.
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.
Advance booking is generally not required for the Tongass Historical Museum. You can typically purchase tickets upon arrival.
Yes, the museum offers informative exhibits and sometimes hosts kids' crafts during events like Artober Art Walk, making it engaging for families.
🎫 🏛️ 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.
A visit typically takes 1-2 hours, allowing time to read through the information and appreciate the exhibits.
While not always explicitly advertised, friendly staff are available to explain exhibits and provide information. Some visitors wished for more lively guided tours.
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.
The museum focuses on informative displays detailing Ketchikan's history. While not heavily interactive, the exhibits are well-presented and engaging.
📸 📸 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.
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.
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.
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.
Yes, the totem poles are a significant part of the exhibits and are excellent subjects for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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
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
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Ketchikan's Rich History: From Indigenous Roots to Salmon Capital
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.
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.
Navigating Ketchikan: Transportation and Accessibility
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.
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.
Capturing Ketchikan's Charm: Photography Tips
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.
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.
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