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October 2023 by Ricardo Pérez Torres
Not enough signals to arrive.
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October 2023 by Penny Speich
My namesake and I came here on the ocean victory cruise ship August 2022. She always loved them and I now know why.
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October 2023 by Ashok Patel
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.
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September 2023 by Kyle C
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.
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August 2023 by Kevin Michalski
The Totem Heritage Center is a small museum showing off native Alaskan totem poles and art. One can reach the center by taking a free bus from the cruise ship docks or by walking.The price of admission if relatively cheap, only $6 for adults. US veterans and their group get free admission.I felt like the insides of the museum were interesting and it was worthwhile to visit. The museum was not very large, and my party was feeling finished after ~45 minutes of being there.Notably, there are bathrooms inside the museum, but there is no food to purchase.
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August 2023 by Rahul Sawant
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." -
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August 2023 by eva chan
The center while small provide intimate and touching display and explanation for local Native tribal culture. Very well done. I see people crying inside moved by the display. I am glad I came.
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June 2023 by 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.
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June 2023 by 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.
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June 2023 by Frank Aguilar
This museum does a beautiful job displaying indigenous totem poles. They have a continuous running (very interesting) video telling the history. There are also beautiful display indigenous artifacts. Only negative is it is a self guided tour.Price for entry: $10.00Ticket type: Senior citizen price. The cost goes for a good cause to keep the Totem Heritage Center open.
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June 2023 by Heather M.
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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May 2023 by SR W
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
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May 2023 by 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.
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May 2023 by Jack G.
Modest but exceptionally well maintained cultural exhibit. Makes for a pleasant short visit. Modest entrance fee.
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May 2023 by 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.
