Ketchikan Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Ketchikan
Ketchikan marks the start of what many still consider the last true frontier. Tucked into the southern tip of the state, it welcomes travelers sailing the Inside Passage—a winding corridor of forested islands, rugged coastline, and dramatic wilderness. It’s a place known for three things: fierce salmon runs, dramatic coastal scenery, and a deep-rooted Alaska Native heritage that continues to shape its identity.
Often called “Alaska’s First City,” Ketchikan gained early prominence as the first major port encountered by travelers heading north. Long before cruise ships and floatplanes arrived, this was Tlingit territory, home to fishing camps and permanent settlements that made the most of the rich coastal resources. Salmon was at the heart of it all—and still is, both culturally and economically.
European-American settlers arrived in the late 1800s, and by 1885, the town was officially on the map. It grew quickly, thanks to salmon canneries and the immense timber reserves of the Tongass National Forest. By the early 20th century, the waterfront buzzed with docks, sawmills, floating buildings, and boardwalks—many of which still shape its silhouette today.
One of the most evocative places to step back in time is Creek Street, a wooden boardwalk straddling Ketchikan Creek. During Prohibition, this spot buzzed with hidden saloons and brothels; today, it’s one of Ketchikan’s most visited historic sites, where weathered wooden storefronts house galleries and museums. At the entrance to Creek Street stands the Chief Johnson Totem Pole, a striking reminder of the region’s Indigenous legacy, positioned just steps from the fish ladder where you can watch salmon battling upstream.
Dolly’s House offers a preserved glimpse into the wilder days of early Ketchikan, and just up the hill, the Tongass Historical Museum brings the town’s timeline to life with rotating exhibits on gold rush settlers, early mining industry, and community traditions. For something with a little more spectacle, there’s the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show—part sport, part theater, and pure Alaskan entertainment.
Now’s your chance to follow a self-guided tour that takes you through all these landmarks and more. Step off the dock, walk the creeks, and explore the town that built itself between the trees and the tide.
Often called “Alaska’s First City,” Ketchikan gained early prominence as the first major port encountered by travelers heading north. Long before cruise ships and floatplanes arrived, this was Tlingit territory, home to fishing camps and permanent settlements that made the most of the rich coastal resources. Salmon was at the heart of it all—and still is, both culturally and economically.
European-American settlers arrived in the late 1800s, and by 1885, the town was officially on the map. It grew quickly, thanks to salmon canneries and the immense timber reserves of the Tongass National Forest. By the early 20th century, the waterfront buzzed with docks, sawmills, floating buildings, and boardwalks—many of which still shape its silhouette today.
One of the most evocative places to step back in time is Creek Street, a wooden boardwalk straddling Ketchikan Creek. During Prohibition, this spot buzzed with hidden saloons and brothels; today, it’s one of Ketchikan’s most visited historic sites, where weathered wooden storefronts house galleries and museums. At the entrance to Creek Street stands the Chief Johnson Totem Pole, a striking reminder of the region’s Indigenous legacy, positioned just steps from the fish ladder where you can watch salmon battling upstream.
Dolly’s House offers a preserved glimpse into the wilder days of early Ketchikan, and just up the hill, the Tongass Historical Museum brings the town’s timeline to life with rotating exhibits on gold rush settlers, early mining industry, and community traditions. For something with a little more spectacle, there’s the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show—part sport, part theater, and pure Alaskan entertainment.
Now’s your chance to follow a self-guided tour that takes you through all these landmarks and more. Step off the dock, walk the creeks, and explore the town that built itself between the trees and the tide.
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Ketchikan Introduction Walking Tour Map
Guide Name: Ketchikan Introduction Walking Tour
Guide Location: USA » Ketchikan (See other walking tours in Ketchikan)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 14
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.2 Km or 1.4 Miles
Author: DanaOffice
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
Guide Location: USA » Ketchikan (See other walking tours in Ketchikan)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 14
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.2 Km or 1.4 Miles
Author: DanaOffice
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
- Ketchikan Cruise Port
- The Rock
- Mission Street
- Southeast Alaska Discovery Center
- Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show
- Saint John's Episcopal Church
- Chief Johnson Totem Pole
- Dolly's House Museum
- Creek Street
- The Star
- Tongass Historical Museum
- Walker-Broderick House
- Burkhart-Dibrell House
- Front Street
1) Ketchikan Cruise Port
The Ketchikan Cruise Port, nestled on Revillagigedo Island near the southern tip of Alaska, serves as one of the most essential entry points for cruise travelers exploring the Last Frontier. Strategically positioned along the Tongass Narrows, the port greets thousands of visitors annually with stunning natural scenery and immediate access to the charming city of Ketchikan. Often the first Alaskan port of call for ships departing from Seattle, Vancouver, or Los Angeles, this bustling hub introduces travelers not only to the state’s wild beauty but also to its rich heritage and vibrant downtown life.
The port is impressively equipped for a city of Ketchikan’s size, featuring five terminals: Berths 1 through 4 are conveniently located downtown, while Ward Cove, the fifth terminal, serves primarily Norwegian Cruise Line ships and is situated about 30 minutes from the city center. Following a significant expansion in 2020, Ketchikan now boasts four berths capable of handling Panamax-sized vessels, with well-marked shuttle pickup points and free shuttle service available for those looking to explore the heart of town. For ships docked at Ward Cove, shuttles run regularly into downtown, though it’s wise to allow 45–60 minutes for round-trip travel.
While terminal amenities vary—with Berth III and IV offering indoor waiting areas, and the smaller Daly and Ryus Floats offering more basic facilities—restrooms are clean and distributed throughout the port. Despite its remote location, Ketchikan Cruise Port stands out for its smooth operations, scenic setting, and accessibility. Whether you're seeking excursions, photo ops, or fresh seafood, it all starts the moment you step ashore at this dynamic and welcoming Alaskan port.
The port is impressively equipped for a city of Ketchikan’s size, featuring five terminals: Berths 1 through 4 are conveniently located downtown, while Ward Cove, the fifth terminal, serves primarily Norwegian Cruise Line ships and is situated about 30 minutes from the city center. Following a significant expansion in 2020, Ketchikan now boasts four berths capable of handling Panamax-sized vessels, with well-marked shuttle pickup points and free shuttle service available for those looking to explore the heart of town. For ships docked at Ward Cove, shuttles run regularly into downtown, though it’s wise to allow 45–60 minutes for round-trip travel.
While terminal amenities vary—with Berth III and IV offering indoor waiting areas, and the smaller Daly and Ryus Floats offering more basic facilities—restrooms are clean and distributed throughout the port. Despite its remote location, Ketchikan Cruise Port stands out for its smooth operations, scenic setting, and accessibility. Whether you're seeking excursions, photo ops, or fresh seafood, it all starts the moment you step ashore at this dynamic and welcoming Alaskan port.
2) The Rock
"The Rock" is a striking bronze sculpture that tells the story of the city’s origins through seven life-sized figures. Located on Berth Two, near the cruise ship docks, this public artwork captures the spirit and resilience of the people who helped shape Alaska's First City. Each of the six symbolic figures represents a different pioneer archetype: a fisherman, miner, logger, bush pilot, frontierswoman, and Native drummer. These personas reflect the primary industries and natural draws—salmon, gold, timber, and wildlife—that lured settlers to the rugged shores of southeast Alaska.
The seventh figure is a historical person: Chief Johnson, a Tlingit leader who symbolizes the Indigenous presence in the region long before it became a destination for fortune-seekers and adventurers. His placement in the sculpture grounds Ketchikan’s story in its Native roots, acknowledging the Tlingit people's role as the original stewards of this land. The sculpture, created with great attention to detail and expression, invites reflection on the diverse cultural forces that built the community.
As Ketchikan’s first bronze sculpture, "The Rock" is not just an artistic landmark but a civic monument. It stands outdoors year-round and serves as a popular photo stop and storytelling point for visitors disembarking at the port.
The seventh figure is a historical person: Chief Johnson, a Tlingit leader who symbolizes the Indigenous presence in the region long before it became a destination for fortune-seekers and adventurers. His placement in the sculpture grounds Ketchikan’s story in its Native roots, acknowledging the Tlingit people's role as the original stewards of this land. The sculpture, created with great attention to detail and expression, invites reflection on the diverse cultural forces that built the community.
As Ketchikan’s first bronze sculpture, "The Rock" is not just an artistic landmark but a civic monument. It stands outdoors year-round and serves as a popular photo stop and storytelling point for visitors disembarking at the port.
3) Mission Street
Mission Street in Ketchikan is home to the iconic Welcome to Ketchikan sign, a beloved local landmark that stretches over the road with pride. Declaring Ketchikan as "Alaska’s First City," the sign celebrates the town’s distinction as the first port of call for most northbound cruises, making it the unofficial front door to the Last Frontier. Though Skagway holds the title of Alaska’s first incorporated city, Ketchikan owns its spot in visitors’ memories as the city that first says hello.
As you walk along Mission Street, the welcome sign sets the tone for a vibrant downtown filled with charm and opportunity. The street is lined with colorful buildings and local shops, offering everything from handcrafted Alaskan art to the famously irresistible Wild Alaska Smoked Salmon.
A must-visit is Mission Street Market, Ketchikan's go-to spot for both souvenirs and refreshments. Whether you're sipping on a hot coffee or browsing for Wild Alaskan venison jerky, this market is the perfect place to stock up on gifts and locally made treasures. Apparel adorned with Alaskan artwork and other unique keepsakes make this a memorable shopping destination.
As you walk along Mission Street, the welcome sign sets the tone for a vibrant downtown filled with charm and opportunity. The street is lined with colorful buildings and local shops, offering everything from handcrafted Alaskan art to the famously irresistible Wild Alaska Smoked Salmon.
A must-visit is Mission Street Market, Ketchikan's go-to spot for both souvenirs and refreshments. Whether you're sipping on a hot coffee or browsing for Wild Alaskan venison jerky, this market is the perfect place to stock up on gifts and locally made treasures. Apparel adorned with Alaskan artwork and other unique keepsakes make this a memorable shopping destination.
4) Southeast Alaska Discovery Center
The Southeast Alaska Discovery Center is the perfect starting point for visitors looking to dive into the region’s rich natural and cultural history—all under one roof and on a budget. Conveniently located at the corner of Mill and Main Streets, just a short walk from the cruise ship docks, this immersive center offers a big-picture view of Ketchikan and the surrounding Tongass National Forest. Three towering totem poles greet guests at the entrance, symbolizing the area's foundational Indigenous cultures: Haida, Tlingit, and Tsimshian.
Inside, interactive exhibits unfold the story of Southeast Alaska through themed galleries focused on Native traditions, rainforest ecosystems, and natural resource industries like fishing, logging, mining, and tourism. Children can enjoy hands-on learning with scavenger hunts, while adults will appreciate the in-depth educational displays and artifacts. The Discovery Center also features a 150-seat theater where visitors can watch short films exploring local history, arts, and environmental topics—making it easy to connect with Ketchikan’s layered identity.
Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center provides context, maps, and inspiration for exploring the region more deeply. Its Alaska Geographic bookstore offers a thoughtfully curated selection of books and souvenirs for nature lovers and history buffs alike. For cruise passengers or independent explorers, the center is an excellent low-cost, high-value introduction to Alaska's cultural and ecological treasures.
Inside, interactive exhibits unfold the story of Southeast Alaska through themed galleries focused on Native traditions, rainforest ecosystems, and natural resource industries like fishing, logging, mining, and tourism. Children can enjoy hands-on learning with scavenger hunts, while adults will appreciate the in-depth educational displays and artifacts. The Discovery Center also features a 150-seat theater where visitors can watch short films exploring local history, arts, and environmental topics—making it easy to connect with Ketchikan’s layered identity.
Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center provides context, maps, and inspiration for exploring the region more deeply. Its Alaska Geographic bookstore offers a thoughtfully curated selection of books and souvenirs for nature lovers and history buffs alike. For cruise passengers or independent explorers, the center is an excellent low-cost, high-value introduction to Alaska's cultural and ecological treasures.
5) Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show
The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show is a high-energy celebration of the region’s rich logging history, filled with thrilling competition, humor, and plenty of “axe-tion.” Located near the waterfront and just steps from the cruise ship docks, this all-weather, 475-seat amphitheater is built on the historic site of the Ketchikan Spruce Mill—once the largest of its kind in the world. The show, launched in May 2000 by Rob Scheer and operated by Lumberjack Sports International, showcases professional athletes who bring lumberjack lore to life through a series of fast-paced, skill-based events.
Over the course of a one-hour performance, two teams—the Spruce Mill team of Ketchikan and the Dawson Creek team from the Yukon—battle it out in 13 jaw-dropping events. These include logrolling, speed climbing, axe throwing, chainsaw carving, and the crowd-favorite underhand chopping. With an entertaining blend of athleticism and theatrics, the show offers something for all ages, whether you're marveling at the feats of strength or laughing at the playful antics between competitors. After the show, guests can even snap a photo with the lumberjacks themselves, making for a memorable keepsake.
Beyond the action-packed competition, the show is a tribute to Ketchikan’s deep roots in the timber industry. The venue features historical photos and artifacts that pay homage to the loggers who helped build Alaska’s early economy. With cushioned seating, a heated grandstand, and a rustic-themed gift shop filled with lumberjack memorabilia, the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show delivers not only excitement but a deeper appreciation for the hard work and heritage of Alaska’s frontier past.
Over the course of a one-hour performance, two teams—the Spruce Mill team of Ketchikan and the Dawson Creek team from the Yukon—battle it out in 13 jaw-dropping events. These include logrolling, speed climbing, axe throwing, chainsaw carving, and the crowd-favorite underhand chopping. With an entertaining blend of athleticism and theatrics, the show offers something for all ages, whether you're marveling at the feats of strength or laughing at the playful antics between competitors. After the show, guests can even snap a photo with the lumberjacks themselves, making for a memorable keepsake.
Beyond the action-packed competition, the show is a tribute to Ketchikan’s deep roots in the timber industry. The venue features historical photos and artifacts that pay homage to the loggers who helped build Alaska’s early economy. With cushioned seating, a heated grandstand, and a rustic-themed gift shop filled with lumberjack memorabilia, the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show delivers not only excitement but a deeper appreciation for the hard work and heritage of Alaska’s frontier past.
6) Saint John's Episcopal Church
Saint John’s Episcopal Church, built in 1902, holds the distinction of being the oldest church building still standing in Ketchikan. Originally constructed on pilings along the water’s edge, land reclamation has since moved the shoreline hundreds of feet away. The church’s sanctuary was completed using red cedar sourced from a local Saxman mill, showcasing the craftsmanship of both Native and settler builders. St. John’s continues to serve the community from its original site and even hosts a small gift shop, offering visitors a chance to connect with its enduring legacy.
The origins of the church date back to 1897, when a local trader approached Bishop Rowe with an offer: two acres of land from his squatter’s claim in exchange for a pledge to establish a school for Native children. That proposal laid the foundation for the Episcopal Church’s mission in Ketchikan. Dr. Campbell, a physician and priest from Douglas, Alaska, made periodic visits to support the growing congregation. By the time construction began in 1903, Tlingit and Nisga’a craftsmen joined white settlers in shaping what would become a spiritual and cultural landmark.
On the day of its opening, nearly 100 residents filled the church, eager to be part of the fledgling mission. More than a century later, St. John’s Episcopal Church remains remarkably well-preserved and beloved. With its tongue-and-groove cedar interior, historical significance, and welcoming atmosphere, the church continues to serve as a symbol of faith, community, and cooperation between cultures in Alaska’s First City.
The origins of the church date back to 1897, when a local trader approached Bishop Rowe with an offer: two acres of land from his squatter’s claim in exchange for a pledge to establish a school for Native children. That proposal laid the foundation for the Episcopal Church’s mission in Ketchikan. Dr. Campbell, a physician and priest from Douglas, Alaska, made periodic visits to support the growing congregation. By the time construction began in 1903, Tlingit and Nisga’a craftsmen joined white settlers in shaping what would become a spiritual and cultural landmark.
On the day of its opening, nearly 100 residents filled the church, eager to be part of the fledgling mission. More than a century later, St. John’s Episcopal Church remains remarkably well-preserved and beloved. With its tongue-and-groove cedar interior, historical significance, and welcoming atmosphere, the church continues to serve as a symbol of faith, community, and cooperation between cultures in Alaska’s First City.
7) Chief Johnson Totem Pole
The Chief Johnson Totem Pole is one of Ketchikan's most iconic landmarks, standing an impressive 55 feet tall near the entrance to Creek Street, just across from Whale Park. Carved from a single western red cedar log, this striking pole is a vibrant expression of Tlingit storytelling and artistry. The current pole is a replica of the original that stood from 1901 to 1982, and it honors the Kadjuk House of the Raven Clan. At the very top, the legendary Kadjuk bird perches—a powerful symbol for the Raven Clan and the family it represents.
This totem pole vividly depicts the legend of Fog Woman, an important story in Tlingit tradition that explains the origin of salmon, a vital resource for the people of Southeast Alaska. Each carved figure along the pole illustrates part of the tale, turning the totem into a vertical scroll of cultural memory and spiritual meaning. Visitors can follow the pole from bottom to top to trace the story’s sequence, learning about the relationship between the natural world and Tlingit belief systems.
While the original pole is preserved in the Totem Heritage Center, the replica standing outside serves as both a cultural monument and an invitation to deeper understanding. Its restoration and relocation over time have stirred conversation about preservation and the importance of keeping Indigenous heritage visible in public spaces. For those exploring downtown Ketchikan, the Chief Johnson Totem Pole offers not just a photo opportunity, but a chance to connect with the enduring legacy of the Tlingit people.
This totem pole vividly depicts the legend of Fog Woman, an important story in Tlingit tradition that explains the origin of salmon, a vital resource for the people of Southeast Alaska. Each carved figure along the pole illustrates part of the tale, turning the totem into a vertical scroll of cultural memory and spiritual meaning. Visitors can follow the pole from bottom to top to trace the story’s sequence, learning about the relationship between the natural world and Tlingit belief systems.
While the original pole is preserved in the Totem Heritage Center, the replica standing outside serves as both a cultural monument and an invitation to deeper understanding. Its restoration and relocation over time have stirred conversation about preservation and the importance of keeping Indigenous heritage visible in public spaces. For those exploring downtown Ketchikan, the Chief Johnson Totem Pole offers not just a photo opportunity, but a chance to connect with the enduring legacy of the Tlingit people.
8) Dolly's House Museum
Dolly’s House Museum, located on the storied Creek Street, offers visitors a rare glimpse into the town’s more colorful past. Once the home and place of business for Dolly Arthur—arguably the most famous madam in Alaska—this green dollhouse-style building is the only remaining brothel from the days when Creek Street thrived as a red-light district (1903–1954). Stepping inside feels like entering a time capsule of early 20th-century frontier life, complete with cabbage rose wallpaper, vintage furnishings, and the unmistakable charm of a house that saw both grit and glamour.
Dolly Arthur wasn’t just a purveyor of vice; she was a savvy businesswoman who navigated a male-dominated world with independence and flair. Her house is now a museum filled with personal artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia that paint a vivid picture of her life and the era she lived in. For a small admission fee, guests can take a self-guided tour through her living quarters, including the infamous "secret closet" where she hid bootleg liquor during Prohibition. The experience is both entertaining and educational, offering candid insights into the social dynamics of Ketchikan’s past.
More than just a brothel turned museum, Dolly’s House is a piece of living history that celebrates resilience, resourcefulness, and a bit of rebellion. Visitors leave with a richer understanding of Alaska’s gold rush days, the hard-living men who worked the mines and seas, and the women like Dolly who catered to their downtime needs. A well-stocked gift shop ensures you won’t leave empty-handed, and the museum’s cheeky yet respectful tone makes it one of Ketchikan’s most engaging and unforgettable attractions.
Dolly Arthur wasn’t just a purveyor of vice; she was a savvy businesswoman who navigated a male-dominated world with independence and flair. Her house is now a museum filled with personal artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia that paint a vivid picture of her life and the era she lived in. For a small admission fee, guests can take a self-guided tour through her living quarters, including the infamous "secret closet" where she hid bootleg liquor during Prohibition. The experience is both entertaining and educational, offering candid insights into the social dynamics of Ketchikan’s past.
More than just a brothel turned museum, Dolly’s House is a piece of living history that celebrates resilience, resourcefulness, and a bit of rebellion. Visitors leave with a richer understanding of Alaska’s gold rush days, the hard-living men who worked the mines and seas, and the women like Dolly who catered to their downtime needs. A well-stocked gift shop ensures you won’t leave empty-handed, and the museum’s cheeky yet respectful tone makes it one of Ketchikan’s most engaging and unforgettable attractions.
9) Creek Street (must see)
Creek Street is a wooden boardwalk like no other—perched on stilts above the rushing waters of Ketchikan Creek and steeped in frontier-era intrigue. Originally established in 1903 following a city ordinance that exiled brothels from the city center, Creek Street quickly gained notoriety as the town’s red-light district. From 1903 to 1954, this narrow stretch of stilted buildings served as a discreet yet thriving hub of activity for miners, fishermen, and loggers looking for entertainment. Iconic establishments like The Star and Dolly’s House sprang up, with the latter now operating as a museum that lovingly preserves the story of legendary madam Dolly Arthur.
Today, Creek Street is one of Ketchikan’s most beloved destinations, seamlessly blending its colorful past with a vibrant present. Visitors can stroll past charming shops, galleries, and eateries that now occupy the historic structures once home to “working girls.” Salmon can often be seen swimming upstream in late summer, especially near the Salmon Ladder viewing area. For the curious and adventurous, Married Man’s Trail still winds its way into the forest—a path once used by clients attempting to elude the law during surprise raids. Though packed with tourists during the day, the boardwalk retains an early-morning tranquility that feels like stepping into a forgotten chapter of Alaskan history.
More than a tourist stop, Creek Street is a living timeline, offering a glimpse into Ketchikan’s transformation from boomtown to cultural gem. Recognized on the National Register of Historic Places since 2014, it’s not just scenic—it’s significant.
Today, Creek Street is one of Ketchikan’s most beloved destinations, seamlessly blending its colorful past with a vibrant present. Visitors can stroll past charming shops, galleries, and eateries that now occupy the historic structures once home to “working girls.” Salmon can often be seen swimming upstream in late summer, especially near the Salmon Ladder viewing area. For the curious and adventurous, Married Man’s Trail still winds its way into the forest—a path once used by clients attempting to elude the law during surprise raids. Though packed with tourists during the day, the boardwalk retains an early-morning tranquility that feels like stepping into a forgotten chapter of Alaskan history.
More than a tourist stop, Creek Street is a living timeline, offering a glimpse into Ketchikan’s transformation from boomtown to cultural gem. Recognized on the National Register of Historic Places since 2014, it’s not just scenic—it’s significant.
10) The Star
The Star is one of the most iconic and historically rich buildings on Creek Street. It stands as the only brothel of the once-bustling red-light district to retain its full historical integrity. Originally constructed in 1903 in response to a city ordinance banning brothels from the downtown core, The Star was built on stilts over Ketchikan Creek in what was then known as Indian Town. As business boomed, it expanded in 1910 and again in 1917, becoming one of the largest brothels in the area. The dance floor, inlaid with a wooden star at its center, gave the house its name.
The Star passed through the hands of some notable madams, including "Black Mary", a well-known brothel owner from Petersburg who purchased the property in 1917. Mary brought with her a team of workers, including the soon-to-be-famous Dolly Arthur, who would later open her own house down the street.
After Mary's death, Thelma Baker (born Linda Ruth McCowan) took over the establishment. A savvy businesswoman, Baker continued to operate The Star through Prohibition, selling alcohol illegally and catering to fishermen and visitors who poured money into the local economy. Despite periodic police raids, the brothel remained active until World War II, when prostitution was briefly outlawed. Although activity resumed in 1946, the city permanently shut down brothels in 1953.
Even after its closure, The Star remained a part of the town's living memory. Thelma Baker continued to reside in the building until her tragic death in a fire in 1972, which also claimed the life of her dog. The fire marked the end of an era, but the legend of The Star—and the stories of the women who lived and worked there—continues to echo through the preserved boardwalks of Creek Street.
The Star passed through the hands of some notable madams, including "Black Mary", a well-known brothel owner from Petersburg who purchased the property in 1917. Mary brought with her a team of workers, including the soon-to-be-famous Dolly Arthur, who would later open her own house down the street.
After Mary's death, Thelma Baker (born Linda Ruth McCowan) took over the establishment. A savvy businesswoman, Baker continued to operate The Star through Prohibition, selling alcohol illegally and catering to fishermen and visitors who poured money into the local economy. Despite periodic police raids, the brothel remained active until World War II, when prostitution was briefly outlawed. Although activity resumed in 1946, the city permanently shut down brothels in 1953.
Even after its closure, The Star remained a part of the town's living memory. Thelma Baker continued to reside in the building until her tragic death in a fire in 1972, which also claimed the life of her dog. The fire marked the end of an era, but the legend of The Star—and the stories of the women who lived and worked there—continues to echo through the preserved boardwalks of Creek Street.
11) Tongass Historical Museum
The Tongass Historical Museum offers a compact yet rich journey through the vibrant history of Alaska's First City. Located in the heart of town, this small but engaging museum showcases thousands of artifacts, photographs, and art pieces that bring to life the region’s past—from prehistoric fossils and Tlingit culture to the gold rush, timber industry, and cannery boom.
The museum's exhibits are thoughtfully curated to cover all the defining aspects of life in southeast Alaska. Displays include detailed insights into local logging practices, the rise of pulp mills, the importance of salmon fishing, and the influence of Native traditions such as totem carving. The museum even features a dedicated “Dinosaur Room,” adding a prehistoric twist to your walk through time. Each placard and display offers digestible nuggets of information, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.
Though modest in size, the Tongass Historical Museum feels immersive—especially when you happen to catch a local sharing their personal memories while pointing to familiar faces and places in the vintage photos. Housed in what was once an old library building, the museum provides not just a peek into Ketchikan's storied past, but also a connection to the community that continues to shape it.
The museum's exhibits are thoughtfully curated to cover all the defining aspects of life in southeast Alaska. Displays include detailed insights into local logging practices, the rise of pulp mills, the importance of salmon fishing, and the influence of Native traditions such as totem carving. The museum even features a dedicated “Dinosaur Room,” adding a prehistoric twist to your walk through time. Each placard and display offers digestible nuggets of information, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.
Though modest in size, the Tongass Historical Museum feels immersive—especially when you happen to catch a local sharing their personal memories while pointing to familiar faces and places in the vintage photos. Housed in what was once an old library building, the museum provides not just a peek into Ketchikan's storied past, but also a connection to the community that continues to shape it.
12) Walker-Broderick House
The Walker-Broderick House, also known locally as the "Doc" Walker House, is a beautifully preserved example of early 20th-century Craftsman architecture. This single-story wood-frame residence was constructed between 1916 and 1920 by Carl Foss, a prominent local builder known for his craftsmanship. The house features signature Craftsman elements such as broad eaves with substantial knee arches, a prominent brick chimney, and a welcoming front porch supported by solid brick piers, all contributing to its timeless charm.
The house was built for Norman "Doc" Walker, a respected early resident of Ketchikan. Walker was not only a pharmacist but also an influential political figure who served as both mayor of Ketchikan and a member of the Alaska Territorial Senate. His home reflects both his stature in the community and the architectural trends of the time. The well-preserved interior woodwork remains a highlight of the house, offering a rare glimpse into the refined yet practical residential style popular during Alaska’s territorial days.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982, the Walker-Broderick House stands as a tangible piece of Ketchikan’s civic and architectural heritage. It serves as a reminder of the town’s development in the early 1900s and the key figures who helped shape its direction.
The house was built for Norman "Doc" Walker, a respected early resident of Ketchikan. Walker was not only a pharmacist but also an influential political figure who served as both mayor of Ketchikan and a member of the Alaska Territorial Senate. His home reflects both his stature in the community and the architectural trends of the time. The well-preserved interior woodwork remains a highlight of the house, offering a rare glimpse into the refined yet practical residential style popular during Alaska’s territorial days.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982, the Walker-Broderick House stands as a tangible piece of Ketchikan’s civic and architectural heritage. It serves as a reminder of the town’s development in the early 1900s and the key figures who helped shape its direction.
13) Burkhart-Dibrell House
The Burkhart-Dibrell House, also known as the Monrean House, is a historic gem perched at the head of Main Street in Ketchikan. Built in 1904 by H.Z. Burkhart, the founder of Ketchikan Spruce Mills, this elegant three-story wood-frame residence is the only significant Queen Anne style home still standing in the city. With its architectural charm and prominent position overlooking town, the house has remained a local landmark for over a century.
One of the house's most distinctive features is its turret with a conical roof, topped by a striking gold spire, giving it a whimsical, almost fairytale-like quality. In 1916, the home was purchased by Captain Walter Dibrell, who at the time served as the Superintendent of Lighthouses for all of Alaska. Under his ownership, the house became associated not only with local industry but also with the maritime legacy of the region.
Recognized for its historical and architectural significance, the Burkhart-Dibrell House was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. It remains a symbol of Ketchikan's early 20th-century prosperity and civic pride.
One of the house's most distinctive features is its turret with a conical roof, topped by a striking gold spire, giving it a whimsical, almost fairytale-like quality. In 1916, the home was purchased by Captain Walter Dibrell, who at the time served as the Superintendent of Lighthouses for all of Alaska. Under his ownership, the house became associated not only with local industry but also with the maritime legacy of the region.
Recognized for its historical and architectural significance, the Burkhart-Dibrell House was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. It remains a symbol of Ketchikan's early 20th-century prosperity and civic pride.
14) Front Street
Front Street is a historic and bustling waterfront corridor that serves as the city’s welcoming front porch. Running parallel to the Tongass Narrows, it’s often the first street visitors encounter when stepping off cruise ships at the nearby berths. With its vibrant mix of colorful buildings, wooden boardwalks, and Alaskan-themed shops, Front Street offers a charming first impression of the town’s maritime spirit and frontier roots. The area has long served as Ketchikan’s commercial and social heart, with roots dating back to the early 1900s during the gold rush and salmon canning boom.
Today, Front Street is a pedestrian-friendly promenade lined with gift shops, jewelry stores, galleries, seafood eateries, and coffeehouses—perfect for exploring on foot. Visitors can shop for authentic Alaska Native crafts, local smoked salmon, or a classic souvenir T-shirt, all while enjoying views of seaplanes taking off and landing on the water. Street performers, towering cruise ships, and the occasional bald eagle add to the street’s dynamic and distinctly Alaskan atmosphere.
Beyond its tourist appeal, Front Street is also a great place to connect with Ketchikan’s culture and history. It leads to some of the city's iconic attractions like Creek Street, the Tongass Historical Museum, and the Totem Heritage Center.
Today, Front Street is a pedestrian-friendly promenade lined with gift shops, jewelry stores, galleries, seafood eateries, and coffeehouses—perfect for exploring on foot. Visitors can shop for authentic Alaska Native crafts, local smoked salmon, or a classic souvenir T-shirt, all while enjoying views of seaplanes taking off and landing on the water. Street performers, towering cruise ships, and the occasional bald eagle add to the street’s dynamic and distinctly Alaskan atmosphere.
Beyond its tourist appeal, Front Street is also a great place to connect with Ketchikan’s culture and history. It leads to some of the city's iconic attractions like Creek Street, the Tongass Historical Museum, and the Totem Heritage Center.
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