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Russian & Tlingit History

Russian Bishop's House

One of the few Russian colonial buildings left in North America, built for the first Orthodox bishop of Alaska and restored by the Park Service.

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By Greg Peters, editor · Updated October 2026

Illustrative photo
Where501 Lincoln St
SeasonUpstairs guided tours May-September (NPS)
AccessAbout a 4-minute walk east along Lincoln Street from the shuttle stop (estimate from OSM distance).
From the docksAbout 4 min walk · Directions · 3D walking map

One of the few Russian colonial buildings left in North America, built for the first Orthodox bishop of Alaska and restored by the Park Service.

Read more about its history

Highlights

  • Built 1841-43 by Finnish carpenters working for the Russian-American Company
  • Built for Ivan Veniaminov, first Bishop of Alaska, later canonized as St. Innocent
  • National Historic Landmark since 1962
  • Acquired by the National Park Service in 1973, followed by a major interior restoration
  • Ranger-led tour of the upstairs living quarters and chapel takes about 30 minutes

Facts checked October 19, 2026 with en.wikipedia.org, nps.gov, nps.gov. Hours and prices change, so confirm before you go.

Tour details →

Map: Russian Bishop's House

The 3D map shows the walk here from the shuttle stop. Expand it to switch to the tender landing and explore.

3D walking map with times →

Map: USGS elevation; streets and buildings © OpenStreetMap contributors.

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