Whale Park - Ketchikan, Alaska

Whale Park: A Unique Ketchikan Experience

For visitors seeking a tranquil and distinctive addition to their Ketchikan itinerary, Whale Park presents a charming, albeit understated, attraction. Located at 829 Mill St, Ketchikan, AK 99901, United States, this small park offers a surprising blend of natural beauty and local culture. While it may not be a sprawling recreational area, Whale Park holds a special appeal for those looking for a brief respite and a glimpse into the region’s character. The park's name, derived from the prominent whale-shaped benches, immediately sparks curiosity and sets the stage for a memorable experience.

About Whale Park

Whale Park is primarily designated as a Tourist attraction and a Park, though its design reflects a more intimate and unconventional approach to public space. It’s not designed to be a traditional park with expansive lawns or playgrounds. Instead, it’s characterized by a curated selection of plants, including vibrant flowers, and a collection of totem poles that contribute to its cultural significance. The focal point, and the park’s namesake, are the whale benches – unique seating arrangements sculpted in the shape of whales, providing a distinctive place to rest and observe the surroundings.

Location and Accessibility

The park’s central location at 829 Mill St makes it easily accessible within Ketchikan. It’s situated within the heart of the town, offering convenience for those exploring the downtown area. Wheelchair-accessible car park and wheelchair-accessible entrance are available, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can enjoy the space comfortably. The park’s compact size also makes it suitable for families with young children, offering a safe and pleasant environment for them to explore. Furthermore, dogs are allowed, enhancing its appeal for pet owners.

Points of Interest

• Whale Benches: These iconic whale-shaped benches are undoubtedly the park's most recognizable feature, providing unique seating and photo opportunities.
• Totem Poles: The presence of totem poles adds a touch of local heritage and artistry to the park’s ambiance.
• Floral Displays: The carefully selected flowers contribute to the park’s visual appeal and create a pleasant sensory experience.
• Shaded Areas: The plant life offers natural shade, providing a cool respite from the Alaskan sun.

While small, Whale Park offers a serene atmosphere for visitors to appreciate the beauty of Ketchikan. It's a place to slow down, observe the surroundings, and connect with the local culture. It’s particularly rewarding for those who appreciate small, thoughtful details and unique experiences.

Visitor Feedback and Reputation

Whale Park receives consistently positive feedback from visitors. Currently, the company has 95 reviews on Google My Business, reflecting a broad range of perspectives. The average opinion is 4.6/5, indicating a generally favorable impression. Visitors frequently describe it as a ‘nice little park’ and a ‘pleasant spot’ when passing by, suggesting it’s more of a welcome break than a major destination. Several comments highlight the charm of the whale benches and the beauty of the flowers and totem poles. Some visitors noted that it’s a ‘tiny little park’ but worth a ‘look-see’ if you’re nearby. Others described it as ‘the smallest park I have ever stopped at’ but enjoyed the elements it offered. It seems to be perceived as a gem that provides a memorable experience despite its modest size.

Recommended Information for Visitors

• Time Commitment: Allow approximately 15-30 minutes to fully appreciate the park’s features.
• Best Time to Visit: Whale Park is enjoyable year-round, but the flower displays are particularly vibrant during the warmer months.
• Nearby Attractions: Whale Park is conveniently located near other downtown attractions, making it a convenient addition to a broader sightseeing itinerary.
• Parking: The wheelchair-accessible car park provides ample parking space.

In conclusion, Whale Park is a charming and unique attraction in Ketchikan, Alaska. It’s a delightful spot for a short break, offering a blend of natural beauty, local culture, and accessibility. Its location, combined with its modest size and distinctive features, makes it a worthwhile addition to any visitor’s exploration of the area. It’s a testament to how even a small space can offer a memorable and enjoyable experience.

👍 Reviews of Whale Park

Samantha M.

5/5

Whale Park might have been the smallest park I have ever stopped it but I enjoyed the flowers, totem poles and the cool whale benches!!

Miriam Y. (.

5/5

A nice little park in the center of town. Come see all the animals walking past!

Jeremy V.

5/5

The only whale in this park is the whale of a tale to label this a park.

Not a park in the classic sense, more like a few parking spots and some plant life which equals shade. Not a destination, but a pleasant spot when you are walking by.

If you are nearby, it's definitely worth a look-see.

ari P.

5/5

Tiny little park in town.
Just sitting around and enjoy the weather.

Paula D. B.

5/5

Smack dab in the middle of town! Walking in Ketchikan - stop by and see the Totem Pole and read the history. So much activity here - hustle and bustle. Bling Blinky of TEXAS Shout Out: Alaska's history is beautiful!

Jim G.

5/5

A pretty little park, great for visiting, relaxing, and enjoying the salt air.

Steve C.

5/5

I loved this park! Such a beautiful, well-kept park. One of the gardeners spoke with us for a few minutes. He talked to us about what it was like to grow up here. Super funny guy.

You might walk by and not even know you passed it, but it is worth walking through.

SR T.

5/5

Whale park was one of my favorite places. There is so much history and culture just spread around the area. It’s hard not to feel one with the earth in Alaska and this park makes you feel almost like you belong there. It’s well kept and colorful and has a lot of nice things to set your eyes on.