Ultimate Saxman Village Tour: Native Ornament Painting, Culinary Tasting, & Cultural Showcase
3.75-Hour Experience
Balanced Culture and Comfort
Hands-On Art
Create Your Own Ornament
Accessible Transport
Wheelchair Friendly
Local Food Tasting
Seasonal Alaskan Flavors
Description
In just under four hours, you get a relaxed, meaningful look at Alaska Native culture right outside downtown Ketchikan. This 3.75-hour experience is designed to be easy, comfortable, and hands-on, with a good mix of learning, tasting, and simply taking it all in.
Upon arrival at Saxman Native Village, the day begins with a brief art session led by a local Native artist. You will learn the basics of Tlingit formline design, which is the style used in totems and traditional artwork. The artist guides you through the process step by step, and you create your own small ornament to take home. No art skills needed. Most guests are surprised by how approachable and fun this part feels.
After that, it is time to eat. You will sit down for a three-course tasting made with local ingredients. Expect foods such as reindeer sausage, smoked salmon dip, kelp pickles, and other rotating dishes, depending on availability. Alongside the food is a four-flight sampler of craft beer, wine, or non-alcoholic craft soda. It is meant to be enjoyed slowly, not rushed.
The guided walk through the village adds context to everything you have seen so far. You visit the totem park, carving center, and artifact displays while your host explains clan life, traditions, and everyday tools and clothing. The stories are personal and easy to follow, even if this is your first cultural tour.
The visit wraps up inside the Beaver Clan House with live songs and dances performed by local dancers. The drumming, movement, and setting make a strong impression and give you a deeper sense of why this culture is still very much alive today.
What's Included
Round-Trip Ground Transportation
Knowledgeable Guide
Hands-on Native Art Workshop
Three-Course Alaskan Tasting
Four-Flight Beverage Sampler
Native Dance Performance
Gift Shop Time
Guide Gratuity
Additional Beverages
Personal Purchases
Frequently Asked Questions
How physically demanding is this experience?
This is a low-impact, relaxed tour. There is light walking on mostly flat paths with plenty of time to sit during the art workshop, tasting, and dance performance.
Is this tour suitable if I do not drink alcohol?
Yes. Non-alcoholic craft soda is available, and the food, art, and cultural experiences are equally enjoyable without alcohol.
What kind of food will be served?
You will enjoy a three-course tasting featuring local Alaskan ingredients, including reindeer sausage, smoked salmon dip, kelp pickles, and other seasonal items. The menu may change based on availability.
Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs or mobility devices?
Yes. Transportation and venues are wheelchair accessible. Guests using wheelchairs, scooters, or walkers should be able to transfer 2–3 steps into the vehicle.
Will I have time to ask questions and interact with the hosts?
Absolutely. The experience is guided and interactive, with plenty of time to ask questions during the art session, village tour, and cultural discussions.
Know Before You Book
Minimum Age: There is no minimum age to join this tour
The culinary tasting includes beer, wine, or craft soda; guests must present valid ID for alcoholic options.
The tour is fully accessible, but guests using wheelchairs or scooters must be able to transfer 2–3 steps into the vehicle.
Menu items and tastings vary daily based on availability of fresh, locally sourced products.
This is a cultural experience led by local hosts, designed for respectful learning and engagement rather than a quick photo stop.
Cancel up to 24 hours the tour for a refund. No refund is available if canceled within 24 hours of the tour. If for any reason your tour is canceled, or if your cruise ship's schedule changes, you will receive a refund. Refunds do not include any non-refundable fees. Contact us by phone or email to request a cancellation.
Quick Facts
City
Ketchikan
Duration
3h 45min
Adult Rate
$159
Child Rate
$149
Infant Rate
$0