Totem Heritage Center

Totem poles are the wood carvings created by local native people to represent ancestry, history, important people and events. Totem pole are created from red cedar wood, which is available here abundantly.

Totem Heritage Center houses the collection of these totem poles which were created in 19th century. They were collected from Tlingit and Haida villages in 1970. Most of the old totem poles are severely weathered and damaged. However, the skills and the artistic ability is seen in the details of these poles.

The staff of the Totem Heritage Center was friendly and helpful. We reached the Heritage Center just before 20 minutes of closing. They gave us the free complimentary pass to see the museum, as we didn’t have much time left to explore it.

The totem poles have no religious significance, but has great cultural importance. These poles were never worshipped. They were created to honor the important and prestigious people, mark the significant events and proclaim the lineage of the owners or clans.

Each totem pole has different story, meaning and purpose which was passed down from generation to generation orally. Unfortunately, the original history and stories behind these totem poles are lost due to no proper records, but some were retrieved from the elderly living people.

Excellent museum dedicated to Totem poles. The poles were gathered from the surrounding areas, represent various groups, and were brought here to protect them from vandalism and the environment. Very informative displays and beautiful artifacts.

I had the privilege of visiting the Totem Heritage Centre, and it was a profound experience. The totem poles and artifacts on display are not only beautifully crafted but also serve as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the indigenous communities. The Centre's commitment to preserving and sharing this history is evident throughout the exhibits, and the knowledgeable staff adds to the overall experience. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in indigenous culture." -

What an amazing experience- the museum has so much information I could have stayed all day! We were there for just over an hour and I would advise taking 2. The totem poles were incredible to see, and the embroidery, baskets and textiles were gorgeous! $6 admission or buy a museum day pass (good at all Ketchikan museums) for $9.

Great small museum dedicated to the totem poles heritage. There is a pleasant park near by. There is a free shuttle from the museum to the downtown area. Ticket costs 6$ for adult.

My namesake and I came here on the ocean victory cruise ship August 2022. She always loved them and I now know why.

Excellent display of artefacts and information about the history of the local indigenous people and their arts and crafts. Served by a hop on hop off bus service which loops around Ketchikan makes it easily accessible . Better than simply shopping in the town.

Small museum that is a good value on a rainy late September day. Paid $6 to enter.

Most exhibits are of items produced within the last 40 years, so definitely more heritage than historical.

Interesting, informative signage. Totem are amazing works of story telling.

Adjacent creek was full of salmon on a late September day.

A variety exhibits with beautiful Native Alaskan artwork. There are plaques that accompanied the pieces of art that were well written with historical information.

If you like Native American art and culture, this place is amazing. The totems and interpretive information make this place well worth your time. Plus its site makes it peaceful and enjoyable. It clearly targets an older audience, but can be appreciated by young adults and anyone who appreciates Native culture.

It's compact, but very informative exposition. Well organized. There is a free shuttle from the downtown. It's located on the Salman Way. Definitely recommend visit.

One of the most valuable museums I have ever had the privilege of visiting. The knowledge and heritage housed here is so important and I feel so very fortunate to have stumbled into here. In addition to the totem poles inside, there are stories about the symbolism behind them, stories about the people who made them, and the history of how they came to be. This museum really changed the way that I view artwork, the culture, and the history that was stolen from the world.

Additionally the staff were extremely friendly and knowledgeable. The building was very accessible and clean. The tickets were $6 for adults (September 2023) and worth every penny. Go into the museum with an open mind and a willingness to learn.

Coming in on a cruise? After you Dock take the short 15 minute walk from Coffee Creek along the Married Man’s Trail up along the Ketchikan Creek to Herring Way next to City Park and arrive after 8am to tour the Totem Heritage Center. A trip well worth the walk. If you are too tired to walk back to town you can catch the free bus just out front to downtown that runs every fifteen minutes. It is easy to spend an hour inside and well worth it. Minimal entry fee and donations welcomed.

Great Center showing the heritage and history through totem poles. Some of the displays are over 200 years old. It was $6 per person to enter. Children under 17 are free.

Easy to walk to from the port

Great little museum with amazing totem poles! We had a wonderful local guide there too. Simply a must see if you're in Ketchikan. To top it off, it's part of the walking tour of the town, so don't miss that either, including the salmon and the other museum.

Very good place and takes from past to future and will get an understanding of nature and can learn more about red cedar and Native American culture

Loved visiting this museum! I learned a lot here about totems. Will definitely come back.

Very interesting, wonderful place. I learned a lot. Obviously my knowledge on this topic wasn't complete to say the least. Great artwork. A must see if you have a chance.

First Nation People have done an amazing job of preserving totem poles and the history of their People through one of a kind artifacts photographs, and totem poles.

It costs $6.00 USD to get in the place and it is worth every penny. The have several unrestored totem poles to examine and take pictures of. You also learn about the history of the totem pole and how they were designed NOT to last forever. Well worth the visit.