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    Totem Heritage Center

    4.5 (44 reviews)
    Closed 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
    Updated 2 months ago

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    Peter P.

    This is a must-see stop in Ketchikan. It's a bit of a hike (up a fairly steep hill), but it's worth it. There's also a free bus that runs from downtown. I'm unsure as to the admission fee (we got in free due to a member of our party being a retired member of the military), but whatever it is, pay it.

    Nancy F.

    If you want to see how totem poles are made, this is a great museum. You can see poles that were in the making also bead work. It's a smaller museum and it can get a little crowded. This is a free shuttle stop back to the main area of town.

    Danielle P.

    On our cruise to Alaska Ketchikan was one of our stops. We decided to explore on our own for various reasons. This town is totally walkable if you decide to do so. They also offer a free bus, keep in mind the cruise isnt gonna give you all these tips. The bus drops you off a few feet from Totem Heritage Center. The guide on the bus was really helpful with our during our stay. Once you arrive there are a few poles outside and things to read. The fee is really reasonable and free for the military with a ID card. Pick up the free maps and guides upon entering. We spent a few hrs reading and taking our time admiring the beauty inside. This is one of the reasons I like exploring on my own versus tours. Once we where done inside we walk back into town to watch the salmon jumping upstream. Ive lived in Alaska so we had seen this before. The Totem Poles are absolutely beautiful and a sight to see! There is another stop where I viewed a guy carving the poles, that's in another review.

    Chelsea V.

    Due to the history of the town, it seemed appropriate to stop off and visit some of the totem heritage. The center is small, but has some interesting information. Would I visit again? Probably not, but it was nice to see. A few things to note: 1.) The admission cost in April is $6.00. 2.) There is a free shuttle that takes you to downtown. The shuttle stops right in front of the center and it comes and goes every 15-20 minutes.

    Front of museum
    Paul E.

    Nice museum that provides an in depth history on the origins and meanings of the the Alaskan Totem Poles that basically are the ancestral record of the generations of the same family captured in symbols. There are many authentic totem poles of varying ages to see at this museum where it goes into great detail on the history of these poles and the ongoing effort to save and preserve as may of these old poles as possible as a way of preserving Alaska's historical past and share it with future generations. Most of the focus you see when traveling to Alaska is on the beautiful terrain and eco-system, deservedly so, and not so much on the indigenous people and their history. Even though it has a narrow focus, this museum provided the people/culture side of the Alaskan story and the best example I saw of this during my 11 day trip to the state. Aside from the totem poles there are also nice displays and storylines on the clothing, hand tools, boats and basket weaving used by the original Alaskans. If you are into the history of an area and its people then you should definately check out this museum. It is a relatively short/easy walk from downtown and the cruise terminals and one of if not the cheapest excursion you will find at this port.

    The beautiful park adjacent
    Lesley B.

    Our Holland America cruise ship stopped in Ketchikan and my hubby and I wanted to explore the town on our own so we took an easy walk over to the Totem Heritage Center to learn a little more about local culture. What a wonderful choice! We absolutely loved it! Gorgeous walk, no crowds, and a beautiful little museum. It was such a perfect afternoon. And the cherry on top was the stunningly beautiful park right next door. Don't miss this gem!

    Christie B.

    Learning about totem poles was fun and interesting. A beautiful little park that everyone should see. Learn about the history and stories of why the totem pole is important.

    Outside
    Lindsay S.

    Such a wonderful experience! The woman at the ticket area was wonderful. She provided us detailed information about the exhibits and the local tribes. The Totem Heritage Center was well organized. The placards were descriptive and informative. It was cool to read the stories behind the totem poles. Such a great experience! The walk from the cruise port area was nice.

    Michelle F.

    Located just 1/2 mile from the cruise port, we had not planned on stopping in but since the free shuttle broke down at this 1st stop we decided to check it out. The small museum was rustic and pretty. It sits along side a rapid salmon run and from the bridge, you could see the salmon trying to make their way upstream.

    Totem house
    Miranda W.

    Such a lovely piece of history to explore with a gorgeous landscape surrounding it. Tour guides are very knowledgeable! Kinda lame we couldn't go inside if we weren't a part of a cruise ship tour (we went on our own). The Village Store has amazing indigenous art and souvenirs with very nice staff.

    Honoring those who give
    Gabe B.

    History? Yes, I'll take it all in. It's sad that much of this history was lost due to the ignorance and intolerance from those who migrated to and settled on this land. I was happy to see the culture making a comeback through teaching and sharing. This lands indigenous people have so much history to offer, this Totem center is definite stop for those who are willing to learn about the culture.

    Main exhibit
    Jack G.

    Modest but exceptionally well maintained cultural exhibit. Makes for a pleasant short visit. Modest entrance fee.

    Ruby C.

    If you're spending a port day in Ketchikan & didn't pre-book an excursion, stop by the visitors center and pickup the self-guided walking map. From the visitors center, it's about a 20 minute walk to the Totem Heritage Center. Although there's a free shuttle, I recommend walking if the weather is good since on the walk you can see Ketchikan Creek & depending on the time of year, you might even see salmon swimming upstream. Totem Heritage Center (admission: $6 adults; $5 seniors) was informative but rather small.. perhaps 2.5 rooms total. We spend probably 10-15 mins browsing around. On the return trip, we hopped on the free shuttle located right outside the heritage center entrance (when you purchase totem heritage center tickets, ask the staff for the shuttle pickup times) & it took us all the way back to the cruise port.

    Entrance

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    2 years ago

    Beautiful totem poles and scenery. Everything is explained very well. Plenty of space. Easy to get too

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    3 years ago

    We were with a friend who is a local so we got a lot of information about the totem poles. I'm not sure if they have guides or not

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    8 years ago

    Small museum but a good selection of native Alaskan artifacts to view. Friendly staff.

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    Creek Street

    Creek Street

    4.5(51 reviews)
    0.4 mi

    We absolutely loved Creek Street! It was an easy, convenient walk from the cruise ship port, and…read moreeven though it rained all day, we still had a blast exploring the shops and taking in the beautiful creekside views. The whole area has such a fun, vintage feel, with so many unique little stores and photo spots. We highly recommend checking out Dolly's House, which also gives some great history about the area and how it helped preserve its character. There is also a free town trolley that can take you around, with pickup near the museum. We found some of the most unique gifts and souvenirs here. Definitely worth visiting for an afternoon walk, shopping, and great photos!

    Creek street is where all the action is. While standing at the bridge, I saw a seal but could not…read moreget my husband's attention get a picture of it cruising up the creek. It was so graceful and beautiful to watch. The street is one of Ketchikan's most famous attractions. It has a wooden boardwalk that sits on stilts above the water that winds its way past colorful shops and homes. Today, the street is full of shops selling souvenirs, handmade goods, and other one-of-a-kind, Alaskan-made wares. It was once the red-light district. Don't miss Dolly's House - a former "house of ill repute," which is now a museum dedicated to what Creek Street used to be. Be sure to check out the salmon run and ladder near the end of Married Man's Trail, where you can watch salmon swimming upstream. Unfortunately, we were too early in the season to see any salmon. It's a great place for photos.

    Photos
    Creek Street
    Creek Street
    Creek Street

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    Southeast Alaska Discovery Center

    Southeast Alaska Discovery Center

    4.1(14 reviews)
    0.4 mi

    June, 2025. My husband and I loved our visit to Southeast Alaska Discovery Center, a collaboration…read morebetween the US Forest Service and Alaska parks on the Tongass National Forest. We spent about two hours in the center, but easily could have spent more. There are interesting cultural and ecological displays spread over two floors -- in well laid out and open display areas. There is also extensive programming, both with Ranger Programs and regular films in the comfortable theater. We particularly enjoyed watching two Native artists -- one putting finishing touches on an oil painting and the other painting a symbolic paddle. Youngsters can participate in the Junior Rangers Program. I was able to get a stamp in my National Parks Passport though technically this isn't a national park, and to buy a refrigerator magnet souvenir. Summer admission is $5 for those aged 16 and above; free for those 15 and younger. Tip: if you have a National Parks pass, it's accepted at the Discovery Center so don't leave it at home in Virginia! The Discovery Center is an easy walk from the cruise terminal, as well as the Creek Street area, but doesn't have the crowds of either.

    The website for Southeast Alaska Discovery Center states that "...this USDA Forest Service managed…read morecenter serves as a gateway to the Tongass National Forest, the largest National Forest in the United States." The museum is located just a street away from where the Ruby Princess was docked. Inside were informative exhibits and artifacts. And, with our America The Beautiful Annual Park Pass, we bypassed the entrance fee. Plus, we got a stamp for our National Parks Passport even though it's not a National Park. Pretty neat visit, especially getting to see totem poles not worn out by the weather.

    Photos
    Southeast Alaska Discovery Center
    Southeast Alaska Discovery Center
    Southeast Alaska Discovery Center

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    Dolly's House Museum & Gift Shop - Silk condoms on the shower curtain

    Dolly's House Museum & Gift Shop

    3.7(39 reviews)
    0.3 mi

    We absolutely loved visiting Dolly's House! Not only was it fascinating to learn about Dolly…read moreherself, but meeting the incredible women who now run the house was one of the highlights of our visit. Their passion, knowledge, and energy are absolutely amazing and really bring the history to life. Walking through the house feels like stepping into a different era. It's truly a pause in time, preserving a glimpse of when things were built, crafted, and cared for with remarkable attention to detail. Every room tells a story. What surprised us most was learning about Dolly Arthur's impact on Ketchikan. Despite being judged by many during her lifetime because of her profession, she played a significant role in preserving Creek Street. When the city considered demolishing much of the historic district, Dolly's House remained, helping spark interest in preserving the area's unique history and character. Today, Creek Street is one of Ketchikan's most beloved attractions, and it's amazing to think that one woman had such an important role in protecting a piece of the town's heritage. We were genuinely amazed by the lasting impact Dolly had on the preservation of Creek Street and the history of Ketchikan. It's a powerful reminder that people are often far more than the labels society places on them. We highly recommend visiting! The tour is fairly quick, but we absolutely loved every minute of it. Just keep in mind that the house discusses adult themes and the history of a former brothel, so this may be one to skip with younger kiddos. If you stop by, tell them Kissa & Colby from Doody Destination sent you!

    Not sure about all the hype. It is historical. Interesting to see. Not worth $10 to walk through a…read moredining room, kitchen, hallway, stairs, bedroom, peek in at the washrooms, then out the second floor onto patio with stairs to the boardwalk.

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    Dolly's House Museum & Gift Shop
    Dolly's House Museum & Gift Shop - Clothes closet

    Clothes closet

    Dolly's House Museum & Gift Shop - Dolly's House Toir

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    Dolly's House Toir

    Potlatch Totem Park

    Potlatch Totem Park

    4.0(9 reviews)
    7.6 mi

    This park was covered as part of the tour we purchased onshore, I assume it's included as part of…read morethe cruise ship offered tours as well but it's always cheaper to buy a tour directly off the ship. Park is decent sized with several totem poles, a totem pole carving workshop, native clan houses, some vintage cars and a gift shop. Due to the abundant rain Ketchikan is blessed with, this park is covered in lush greenery. You definitely need a guide to help explain the history behind the totem poles, the clan houses and all the other stories. On the whole it will take less than an hour to cover the entire park. The gift store is great as well and surprisingly very reasonably priced compared to the other touristy places. They had several totem poles in various sizes on sale in addition to the regular tourist store items.

    With a knowledgeable guide, we came here as part of a cruise tour. Our guide was very knowledgeable…read moreexplaining the meanings of the totem symbols, such as the Eagle versus the Raven. A potlatch is a ceremonial gathering, like a big party, and the clan's totem pole shows how many potlatches they have been involved with. Enjoyed seeing the small circular doors to the living quarters that would force any unwelcome visitors to stoop down to get through the opening - allowing them to be easily attacked. There is a large gift shop, and a clan house. We did not see any old cars but possibly our guide simply omitted that part of the tour. Those coming without a guide are at a bit of a disadvantage, as I could see no interpretive displays near the totem poles explaining what you were seeing. This is also a cruise ship destination and there were numerous cruise ship groups tramping through the park along with us, affecting the experience. Lots of delays as we had to wait for several groups to clear out before we could go onto the next part of the tour. The crowds also made taking photographs difficult.

    Photos
    Potlatch Totem Park
    Potlatch Totem Park
    Potlatch Totem Park  - Gift shop

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    Gift shop

    Totem Heritage Center - museums - Updated June 2026

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