Cannery Museum – Icy Strait Point, Alaska

The Cannery Museum at Icy Strait Point is one of the most authentic and educational stops in the port. Located inside a fully restored 1912 salmon cannery, the museum showcases the history of Alaska’s fishing industry through original equipment, historic photos, and hands‑on displays. Visitors can walk through the old processing lines, explore the canning floor, and learn how the Huna Tlingit community built and operated this historic site.

For cruise travelers, the Cannery Museum is an easy, self‑guided experience that blends history, culture, and waterfront scenery — all just steps from the dock.

Fun Facts

• The cannery was built in 1912 and operated for decades as a major salmon‑processing facility.
• Icy Strait Point is the only privately owned cruise destination in Alaska, run by the Huna Tlingit.
• Many of the original machines, belts, and canning lines are still in place.
• The museum sits inside a National Historic Landmark building.
• Interpretive signs explain how salmon were caught, cleaned, canned, and shipped.
• The cannery once produced thousands of cans of salmon per day.
• The restored boardwalks and buildings preserve the look of a working cannery town.
• Entry to the museum is free for all cruise visitors.

What to Expect During Your Visit

The Cannery Museum is a self‑guided walk through the historic canning buildings. You’ll see original equipment, canning lines, and displays that explain how the salmon industry shaped life in Hoonah. The museum is spacious, easy to navigate, and filled with interpretive signs that bring the history to life.

The surrounding boardwalk area includes shops, restaurants, and waterfront views, making it a great place to explore before or after an excursion.

Most visitors spend 20–30 minutes here.

Why It’s Worth Visiting

The Cannery Museum is perfect for travelers who enjoy history, culture, and authentic local experiences. It’s free, easy to access, and gives you a deeper understanding of the fishing heritage that still defines the region today.

Where It’s Located

The museum is located inside the historic cannery complex at Icy Strait Point, right along the waterfront.

How to Get There From the Cruise Port

• Walk: Just steps from the dock — no transportation needed.
• Shuttle: Some cruise lines drop passengers directly at the cannery area.
• Gondola: Not required, but easy to pair with other attractions.

Best Time to Visit

• Morning offers quieter walkways.
• Midday is great for photos with bright light inside the cannery.
• Summer (June–August) provides the fullest schedule of nearby activities.
• Rainy days are ideal — the museum is mostly indoors.

Tips for Visiting

• Take time to read the interpretive signs — they’re well done and easy to follow.
• Look for the original canning equipment still in place.
• Combine with the Native Heritage Center for a cultural + historical pairing.
• Browse the nearby shops for local art and souvenirs.
• Bring a camera — the old machinery makes great photos.

Common Complaints

• The museum is small, so visits are brief.
• Some areas can feel crowded when multiple ships are in port.
• Displays are mostly static — no live demonstrations.
• The boardwalk can be slippery after rain.

Final Thoughts

The Cannery Museum is one of the most authentic and accessible attractions at Icy Strait Point. With original equipment, historic displays, and a beautifully restored setting, it’s a must‑visit stop for cruise travelers who want to understand Alaska’s fishing heritage.

For more ideas to plan your day, explore my full guide to the top things to do at Icy Strait Point.