Copper Center Museum

Get a taste of early 19th-century Alaska in Copper Center. This small community located at the confluence of the Klutina and Copper Rivers, was established in 1898 as a camp for prospecting gold miners. After the Richardson Highway route opened in 1900, roadhouses sprung up every 15 to 20 miles, providing services for travelers between Valdez and Fairbanks. You could get meals, lodging, mail service, medical help, hay for your horse, gasoline for your car, and a drink to warm the innards.

The two-story log cabin that is now Copper Center Lodge was one such roadhouse, and is still open for meals and lodging. And next to the lodge is a small museum operated by the National Historical Society. Inside, you’ll find all sorts of relics and mementos from pioneer days, including photographs, clothing, letters, and an assortment of other junk/treasures (you make the call).

Hours

Typically, May 15–September 15, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

Fee

Free

Directions

From the Richardson Highway, turn onto the Old Richardson Highway, go down the hill, and take a right on Bus Loop Road. The museum is ½ mile down the road on the right.

Getting There

Coordinates
Latitude: 61.95351252
Longitude: -145.2934813
Driving Directions