The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show: 2026 Review
The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show is one of Ketchikan's most popular shore excursions. But with limited time in port, is it worth the roughly $45 ticket price (as of mid-2026)?
2026 Update: The Show Now Plays at TWO Venues
Most guides haven't caught up with this yet: as of mid-2026 the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show performs at two locations — the original downtown arena (one block from the cruise berths) AND a newly opened second venue at the Port of Ward Cove. If your ship docks at Ward Cove (primarily Norwegian Cruise Line), you no longer need to shuttle into town to see the show — it's right at your port. Check our Ward Cove port guide to confirm where your ship docks.
The Quick Verdict
Yes, it's worth it for families and those seeking a high-energy, easy-logistics experience. It's a raucous, 90-minute celebration of Alaska's logging history that doesn't take itself too seriously.
What to Expect
The show mimics a world-class lumberjack competition. You'll see professional athletes (many are collegiate competitors) square off in events like:
- Log Rolling: Two lumberjacks trying to stay atop a spinning log in a pool.
- Speed Climbing: A heart-pounding race up a 50-foot spar pole.
- Axe Throwing & Chopping: Precision and power on full display.
- Chainsaw Carving: Artistic speed.
The "Rain Proof" Advantage
Ketchikan is rainy. The grandstands for the Lumberjack Show are **fully covered and heated**. This makes it the #1 rainy-day contingency in Ketchikan.
Perfect for Kids
The show is loud, interactive, and fast-paced. If you are traveling with children or teens who might find a 3-hour history walk boring, this is the solution.
2026 Pricing & Logistics
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Ticket Cost | Approx. $45 Adults (as of mid-2026) |
| Show Times | Multiple showtimes daily in season — check the current schedule when you book |
| Duration | ~90 Minutes |
| Seating | Covered, heated grandstand — rain never stops the show |
| Venues | Downtown arena (1 block from the cruise berths) + NEW Ward Cove venue at the port |
Which Venue Should You Pick?
Simple rule: match the venue to your dock. If your ship is at the downtown berths (Princess, Holland America, Royal Caribbean, and most other lines), the original arena is one block away — you can walk there in five minutes and be back aboard with zero transit risk. If you dock at Ward Cove (primarily NCL), the new Ward Cove venue puts a marquee attraction right at your port, so you can see the show without burning 40-plus minutes of shuttle time each way. Either way, pick a showtime with comfortable margin before all-aboard.
Combos & How to Book
Beyond the standalone ticket, the show sells combo packages — options as of mid-2026 include axe throwing add-ons and a Dungeness crab feast pairing. On the major booking platforms the show is currently offered as the show-plus-crab-feast combo (there's no show-only listing there), and it's the highest-rated way to do it — dinner and a show in the Thomas Basin historic district:
Is it "Touristy"?
Honestly? Yes. It's a staged show designed for travelers. But the skill on display is genuine, and the energy is infectious. If you are looking for deep, solemn Tlingit history, you won't find it here (head to the Totem Heritage Center instead). But if you want a reliable, fun hour and a half, the Lumberjack Show delivers.
Lumberjack Show FAQ
Is the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show worth it?
Yes — for families, rainy days, and anyone who wants easy logistics. The roughly $45 ticket (as of mid-2026) buys about 90 minutes of genuine athletic competition under a covered, heated grandstand. It is touristy by design, but the skill is real. See our full things-to-do guide for how it compares to other options.
Which venue should I choose — downtown or Ward Cove?
Match the venue to your dock. Ships at the downtown berths are one block from the original arena. If your ship docks at Ward Cove (primarily Norwegian Cruise Line), the show's new Ward Cove venue is right at the port — no shuttle needed. Our Ward Cove port guide explains who docks where.
Can I book just the show online?
On the major booking platforms, the show is currently sold as a combo with a Dungeness crab feast (from $158, 4.9-star rated). Show-only tickets (roughly $45 adult as of mid-2026) are sold through the show's own channels and cruise lines. Either way, book a showtime that fits your port itinerary.