7 Old-Timey General Stores In Alaska
Alaska is filled with vast landscapes, towering mountains, and crystal-clear lakes. But one of its most lucrative draws? A good old general store. Not only are these niche stores unique, but they also offer a variety of items. In some areas of the state, these general stores are essential for survival out in the great alone territory and beyond. If you make it to The Last Frontier, don’t skip a visit to one of their old-timey general stores.
McCarthy General Store
Once a bustling general store during the mining boom, McCarthy General Store also served as a boarding house. Erected in 1914, it is the town’s largest and one of its oldest buildings. Standing two stories tall, the store was located on the bottom floor, and there were 11 rooms upstairs for boarders. After the mining boom ended in the 1930s, the building was abandoned. Located in Wrangell - St. Elias National Park, the building was placed on the National Registry of Historic Places in 1976. Although currently not an active general store, the building still serves a significant purpose. It is the official visitor center for Wrangell - St. Elias National Park.
Tongass Trading Company
Besides memories, what else do travelers love to come home from trips with? Souvenirs! Featuring Ketchikan’s largest selection of souvenirs, the Tongass Trading Company is also Alaska’s longest-running business. Founded in 1898 by two local pioneers, the business was originally called Strong & Johnstone Co. until it was renamed in 1900 to Tongass Trading Company. Through the early to mid-1900s, this store provided the essentials to the commercial fishing fleet, miners, and loggers. The business is still thriving today and sells outdoor equipment, unique local knick-knacks, gifts, and souvenirs. Tongass Trading Company can be your one-stop shop for Alaska memorabilia and gear!
Nagley’s General Store
Nagley’s was opened in 1921 by Horace Nagley, who was looking to supply trappers and miners with the essentials they would need for work and endurance. The log cabin that houses the general store almost closed its doors for good in 1997 when a fire caused substantial damage. It was, however, rebuilt with the assistance of its loyal patrons. The general store, located in Talkeetna, offers groceries, sandwiches, and coffee to its customers. But that isn’t the only thing that keeps people coming back. Since the 1970s, Nagley’s has been known for their roaming cats that wander the store as if they, too, were paying customers. So, whether you’re looking to stock up on groceries or just visit the furry friends, be sure to make Nagley’s General Store a stop on your list.
Estes Brothers Grocery
Comprised of several buildings, including an old roadhouse, Estes Brothers Grocery is known for more than just its food selection. There are rumors that a ghost resides in the old store. But don’t let that stop you from visiting; legend has it he’s a friendly ghost! Located in Moose Pass, the general store also has a deli that serves breakfast, hot sandwiches, and specialty lattes, including seasonal and holiday-themed drinks. Estes Brothers Grocery is closed Monday through Wednesday and has an early closing time for the rest of the week, so if you intend to visit, plan accordingly. The exception is Thursdays, they reopen in the evening for Soup Night, featuring different soup each week.
Mallotts General Store
This general store started in a spare bedroom in the Mallott family home and has since grown into a 3,000+ square foot store. Mallotts General Store opened in 1946 and is still family-owned and operated. The store has been thriving since the Alaska Steamship Line was the only transportation company to deliver goods. Today, the store provides groceries, jewelry, an espresso bar, and a produce section larger than anywhere else in Yakutat. Photos of the items available for sale can be found on the store’s website, so if you’re planning a visit, make sure to check out all they have to offer.
Kennecott General Store
Once named the Kennecott Corporation, this building housed almost everything a local resident would need. Located in the building was a general store, a post office, and a warehouse. The establishment was crucial for the town. Being in the middle of Wrangell - St. Elias National Park, the store provided the tools and parts needed to repair mines and the mill structures. Found in the mining town of Chitina, the building now serves as a local history museum.
Grizzlys General
If you take a cruise ship to Skagway, be sure to make a stop at Grizzlys General, which is only a light walk from the terminal. Deep in the heart of the town’s Historic District, Grizzlys classifies their store as a “Klondike Gold Rush-era general store with a 21st century twist”. Opened in 1979 by a young couple who arrived by boat with nothing more than $10 between the two of them, the store is still family owned and operated. Not only does the store sell the essentials of groceries and souvenirs, but they also have a grab-and-go food section, medicine shop, and Radio Shack. If you only have time for one stop in Skagway, make it Grizzlys. They’re guaranteed to be your one-stop shop for everything you need.
Some Alaska towns are scarcer than others. But one amenity almost any town provides is the ever-popular general store. These are just seven of the general stores you can visit, with the opportunity for so many more. Loaded not only with necessities but also charm, if you’re looking for a unique way to visit some of Alaska’s past, a general store visit will do just that.
