Saxman Native Village & Totem Park - Image 1
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Saxman Native Village and Totem Park

4.5
·2k reviews·Saxman, United States

Explore a living history site showcasing Tlingit and Haida culture with stunning totem poles and master carvers.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Afternoon

Carvers often active

CrowdMedium
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Saxman Native Village & Totem Park - Image 1

Saxman Native Village and Totem Park

Best Time

Afternoon

Carvers often active

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore a living history site showcasing Tlingit and Haida culture with stunning totem poles and master carvers.

4.5
(2k reviews)

"A spiritual experience with incredible art and history, highly recommended for any Alaska visitor!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Exact Bus Fare

:bus: Silver Line bus requires exact $2 fare. Note the return stop is up the road!

Return Bus Stop

:bus: The return bus stop is NOT where you get off, but up the road by the gift shop!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Totem Pole Park

Totem Pole Park

Main park area

Marvel at a stunning collection of intricately carved totem poles, each telling a unique story.

Carving Center

Carving Center

Workshop area

See master carvers at work, preserving ancient traditions and creating new masterpieces.

Clan House & Dance Performances

Clan House & Dance Performances

Clan house and performance stage

Experience the vibrant culture through traditional dances and learn about Tlingit and Haida customs.

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Planning Your Visit

Getting There: Bus vs. Tour

The Silver Line bus is a budget-friendly option at $2 exact change, but be mindful of the return stop location. Cruise ship tours offer convenience but can be pricier. Plan your transport to avoid missing out on this cultural gem.Reddit

Embrace the Culture

Immerse yourself in Tlingit and Haida heritage. Witness master carvers at work, enjoy traditional dance performances, and learn about the stories etched into the totem poles. This is more than just a park; it's a living history experience.Instagram

Best Times

When
Afternoon
Why
Carvers often active
Crowd
Medium
When
During dance performances
Why
Vibrant cultural immersion
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Replying to @annie! this was my first year dorm at ubc :) i was in totem park in hemlesem (hmsm) 134-2 and it was lovely and i miss it very much </3
@supakoolkitty
23.5K likes • 261.5K views

Exact Bus Fare

:bus: Silver Line bus requires exact $2 fare. Note the return stop is up the road! Reddit

Return Bus Stop

:bus: The return bus stop is NOT where you get off, but up the road by the gift shop! Reddit

Saxman Native Village is an Alaskan living history site focused on Tlingit and Haida culture, featuring a large totem pole park, traditional dance performances by the Cape Fox Dancers, a carving center where master carvers work, and a clan house where visitors can learn about the history and customs of the local people. It provides an immersive cultural experience that includes traditional songs a...
banksohanatravels
4 likes • 271 views
We just visited Ketchikan, Alaska on our own NOT on a cruise ship and it was a blast. From the moment you arrive you’re immersed in Tlingit art and culture. Downtown at the museums, out at the Saxman Native Village, up at Totem Bight State Park, there’s so much to see and experience. And just as much a part of Ketchikan as the totem poles is the nature. Bald eagles, black bears, spawning salmon, ...
2traveldads
176 likes • 3.1K views

Learn the Stories

:scroll: Guides share fascinating stories behind the totem pole artwork. Listen closely! Reddit

Support the Artisans

:shopping_bags: Consider purchasing art from the carving center to support local artists. Reddit

reddit.com

Ketchikan Cruise and Tourist Questions

Tips

from all over the internet

Exact Bus Fare

:bus: Silver Line bus requires exact $2 fare. Note the return stop is up the road! Reddit

Return Bus Stop

:bus: The return bus stop is NOT where you get off, but up the road by the gift shop! Reddit

Learn the Stories

:scroll: Guides share fascinating stories behind the totem pole artwork. Listen closely! Reddit

Support the Artisans

:shopping_bags: Consider purchasing art from the carving center to support local artists. Reddit

Wear Comfortable Shoes

:athletic_shoe: You'll be walking around the park and potentially on forest trails. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the rich history and vibrant cultural experiences at Saxman Native Village, particularly the impressive totem poles and the skill of the carvers. While some note the park could benefit from maintenance and clearer signage, the overall sentiment is that it's a worthwhile and spiritual experience for those interested in indigenous Alaskan art and culture.Reddit+1

"We took the silver line bus to get to the park. The bus requires exact change, $2. It was a small park but very easy to get to and it is nice. BTW, the stop for the return bus back to town is not where you get off but up the road next to the park's gift shop!"

Ri Wu

"I’ve been to many native and First Nations longhouses, dance performance’s, and carving studios. The collection of standing polls, carving studio, and the second largest longhouse I’ve been in is definitely worth the trip and seeing. Our guide was friendly and knowledgeable. I’ve known about Nathan Jackson’s work and it was great to meet him and see him passing on his craft to the next generation of carvers. Highly recommend if you’re in Alaska. Fly out or catch a boat."

Alexander Prettyman

"Love the history and dances of this totem pole Park! The forest hikes were phenomenal. If you like the above type of excursions, I can highly recommend this one!"

Larry Futrell

What People Like

Intricate totem poles
Master carvers at work
Cultural dance performances

What People Dislike

Needs maintenance
Missing signage

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most economical way is the Silver Line bus, which costs $2 exact change. Be aware that the return bus stop is located up the road from where you disembark, near the gift shop.Reddit Alternatively, many cruise ship tours include transportation to the village.Reddit

Yes, it's a popular destination for cruise ship excursions. Tours often provide convenient transport and guided experiences.Reddit

Yes, driving is an option, and there is likely parking available. The village is located a short distance south of Ketchikan.

For independent travelers, the Silver Line bus is a great budget option. Taxis or ride-sharing services might also be available.

It's a short drive, approximately 15-20 minutes south of downtown Ketchikan, making it easily accessible for day trips.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While advance booking might be available through tour operators, it's often possible to purchase tickets upon arrival or as part of a guided tour.Reddit

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information, especially if visiting outside peak tourist season.

Admission fees can vary. If you're taking the Silver Line bus, you'll pay for transport, and then there's an entrance fee for the village itself. Cruise ship tours will have a bundled price.

Information on discounts for seniors, children, or groups is not widely publicized, but it's worth inquiring directly with the village administration.

Admission typically includes access to the totem pole park, the carving center, and often opportunities to see dance performances or learn from guides.Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore a significant collection of totem poles, witness master carvers at work in the carving center, and experience traditional Tlingit and Haida dance performances.InstagramReddit The village also offers insights into the history and customs of the local people.

Yes, guided tours are highly recommended. Knowledgeable guides share the history and stories behind the totem poles and the Tlingit and Haida culture.Reddit

Absolutely! The carving center is a key attraction where you can observe master carvers at work, often passing their skills to apprentices.Reddit

While the main focus is the village and totem poles, there are mentions of forest hikes in the vicinity, offering a chance to connect with the natural surroundings.Reddit

Yes, there is a gift shop where you can purchase authentic Native Alaskan art and souvenirs. The return bus stop is conveniently located near the gift shop.Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally permitted in the park and public areas. However, always be respectful and ask permission before photographing individuals, especially during performances or in private workshops.

The totem pole park itself offers numerous stunning photo opportunities. The intricate details of the poles against the natural Alaskan backdrop are particularly photogenic.

As with most cultural sites, drone usage is likely restricted or prohibited to ensure the safety and respect of the area and its visitors. Check for signage or inquire with staff.

Late afternoon light can be beautiful for photographing the totem poles, providing a warm glow. However, overcast days can also offer soft, even lighting that highlights the carvings.

While observing the carvers is encouraged, it's polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of them or their work in progress.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Saxman Native Village is a fantastic educational outing for families. Kids can be captivated by the large, colorful totem poles and the stories they tell. The dance performances are often energetic and engaging, holding children's attention. It's a great opportunity to introduce them to indigenous cultures in a visually stimulating environment. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, and consider the bus fare if opting for public transport.Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Silver Line bus is your best friend. It's an affordable way to reach the village, costing only $2 exact change.Reddit While tours offer convenience, they come at a higher price. By taking the bus and purchasing your admission directly, you can significantly reduce your expenses while still enjoying the core cultural experience.

🚢 Cruise Ship Passengers

Saxman Native Village is a popular excursion for cruise ship passengers, offering a direct and informative cultural experience. Tours often include transportation and guided insights, making it a hassle-free option. If you prefer a more independent exploration, you can opt for the local bus or a taxi, but be sure to factor in travel time and return bus stop locations.Reddit+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of Totem Poles

The totem poles at Saxman Native Village are more than just art; they are a vital form of communication and historical record for the Tlingit and Haida people. Each pole tells a story, often depicting clan crests, ancestral legends, or significant life events. The intricate carvings represent a deep connection to the natural world and the spiritual beliefs of the indigenous cultures.Reddit Master carvers meticulously shape cedar logs, using traditional tools and techniques passed down through generations. Observing this process is a unique opportunity to witness living history and understand the cultural significance of these monumental artworks.

Nathan Jackson, a renowned Tlingit artist, has been instrumental in preserving and revitalizing totem pole carving traditions. His presence and mentorship at Saxman have been crucial in passing on his craft to younger generations.Reddit The village serves as a hub for this cultural transmission, ensuring that these ancient art forms continue to thrive. Visitors can learn about the symbolism behind the figures – such as ravens, eagles, bears, and wolves – and how they relate to the social structure and cosmology of the clans.

Experiencing Tlingit and Haida Culture

Saxman Native Village offers an immersive experience into the rich cultural heritage of the Tlingit and Haida peoples. Beyond the visual spectacle of the totem poles, visitors can engage with the living culture through traditional dance performances. The Cape Fox Dancers Instagram bring ancestral stories to life with vibrant costumes, rhythmic drumming, and powerful movements. These performances are not just entertainment; they are a way of preserving and sharing cultural identity and history.

Learning about the customs and traditions within the clan house provides deeper context to the art and performances. Guides share insights into social structures, ceremonies, and the daily lives of the indigenous communities. This holistic approach allows visitors to gain a more profound appreciation for the resilience and enduring legacy of the Tlingit and Haida cultures. It’s a chance to connect with a history that is both ancient and vibrantly present.InstagramReddit

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