Kate Kennedy House – A Historic Alaskan Retreat in McCarthy
Welcome to the Kate Kennedy House
Nestled in the heart of McCarthy, Alaska, surrounded by the breathtaking Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, the Kate Kennedy House is a beautifully restored 1920s Sears Catalogue home that invites you to step into Alaska’s frontier legacy. Once listed among Alaska’s “10 Most Endangered Historic Properties,” this two-bedroom retreat celebrates Kate Kennedy, McCarthy’s iconic madam whose bold spirit shaped the town’s vibrant history. Perfect for 2 Couples, we can add Roll-a-ways kids; this intimate haven offers families, couples, and adventurers a unique blend of historic charm and modern comfort, brought to life by the Michelin Guide-recommended McCarthy Lodge Resort.
The Property:
A 1920's home right out of the Sear's Catalogue! Complete with the technology of the day, like a collection of 78 rpm records and working Victrola; 3D Slides of Alaska circa 1920; Rotary Phone, electric lights, wood stove, and many of the special touches that make staying here, in the center of McCarthy, extra special. A layer of Authentic that is unmatched in comfort and relevance to our neighborhood. An intimate space perfect for a family gathering; Think Cabin in a wilderness town, with an historical presence unmatched in Alaska. A Clean Restoration that Kate herself would have been proud of.
The King Size Brass Bed, created for the Kate Kennedy House, in the master bedroom. The Full size bed, upstairs in the second bedroom, is from McCarthy, a Solid Oak bed frame. 1920's Lighting and furnishings are all part of the highly detailed, accurate restoration. Luxurious linens, bathrobes and comforters. Screened in back Porch and fenced in back yard.
Restored in 2022, this 800+-square-foot gem immerses you in the 1920s with its period details. The cozy living area, warmed by a wood stove, is perfect for sharing stories or diving into books about McCarthy’s mining past. A private full bathroom with a shower—a rarity in historic McCarthy—ensures modern comfort. With no kitchen, guests can enjoy exceptional dining nearby at the Golden Saloon or Salmon & Bear Restaurant. Breakfast is included for all our guests! The screened-in back porch and fenced-in backyard offer a tranquil space for morning coffee or evening stargazing, connecting you to McCarthy’s serene wilderness.
As a “living museum,” the house maintains its historic integrity This building was Electrified before most of North America. The Electric Light fixtures are historic and beautiful too - Complimentary Wi-Fi is a nod to the needs of current day travel.
The Experience
The Kate Kennedy House is your portal to McCarthy’s lively community and Alaska’s untamed beauty. McCarthy Lodge Resort, a local institution since 2001, curates an unforgettable stay with its vibrant event calendar (visit the McCarthy Lodge website's event calendar). Join locals for Thursday open mic nights at the Golden Saloon, where musicians and storytellers bring the town to life. Saturday nights pulse with live music, from folk to bluegrass, creating a festive atmosphere. Savor culinary events featuring winemakers and craft brewers, showcasing Alaskan flavors alongside curated wines and brews. If your timing aligns, don’t miss the McCarthy Rose Play, a beloved community performance—check the event calendar for details. On the 4th of July, McCarthy celebrates with small-town charm, including live music, communal feasts, and fireworks over the Kennicott River, a highlight of the summer season. The Copper Town Shuttle, running hourly (8:30 AM–6:30 PM), makes exploring Kennicott’s historic mines effortless.
What’s Included
Complimentary shuttle from the Kennicott River footbridge to McCarthy.
Concierge services for booking guided tours, from glacier hikes to flightseeing.
On-site staff, many McCarthy locals, sharing insider tips and warm hospitality.
Fabulous Breakfast at the McCarthy Lodge's Salmon & Bear Restaurant
Dining Highlights
McCarthy’s dining scene is a cornerstone of your stay. The Golden Saloon, a one-block stroll away, is the town’s heartbeat, offering hearty buffalo burgers, Alaskan craft brews, and live music in a lively, historic setting. For fine dining, the Salmon & Bear Restaurant serves exquisite dishes like wild-caught Copper River Red salmon, paired with an award-winning wine list (Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, since 2020). Enjoy multi-course tasting menus featuring local ingredients like foraged morels.
Things to Do
McCarthy and Kennicott, 4 miles apart, are your gateway to Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, a 13.2-million-acre wilderness of glaciers and peaks. From the Kate Kennedy House, explore:
History: Tour the Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark or the McCarthy-Kennicott Historical Museum for artifacts from Kate’s era.
Adventure: Hike the Root Glacier Trail, raft the Kennicott River, or soar above the park on a flightseeing tour with Wrangell Mountain Air. St. Elias Alpine Guides offers family-friendly outings.
Family Fun: Bike the Wagon Road Trail or join a guided history walk to uncover McCarthy’s “Sin City” past.
Community Events: Dive into Thursday open mic nights, Saturday live music, or the 4th of July festivities, detailed on McCarthyLodge.com.
Getting Here
Reach McCarthy via a scenic 60-mile drive on the McCarthy Road from Chitina (partially paved, drive 35 mph to avoid flats) or a 30-minute flight from Chitina for stunning views. The road ends at a footbridge, where our complimentary shuttle takes you to the Kate Kennedy House, a half-mile away. Rental car companies like Budget and Alaska 4x4 Rentals allow McCarthy Road travel when booked through McCarthy Lodge. Note about Rental cars: Avoid the big name brands if you want to drive Alaska's state maintained gravel roads like the McCarthy Road.
The following list of companies allow their vehicles on the McCarthy Road. So you won't be breaking a car rental contract, and you can still drive the State Maintained gravel roads with coverage for rental cars as you would normally expect (Most folks credit card or car insurance can cover your rental when traveling - as long as you don't break a contract. Check with your credit card and car insurance when setting up car rentals on vacation.
Budget (Anchorage location only)
Rent-A-Subaru
Alaska 4x4 Rentals
Go North
Levi Car Rental
A-1 Car Rental / Anchorage Vans
Good to Know
Check-In/Out: 3:00 PM check-in, 11:00 AM check-out. Early/late options may be available.
Minimum Stay: 2 nights.
Pet Policy: No pets due to historic preservation.
Accessibility: Stairs; not wheelchair-accessible. Contact us for alternatives.
Sustainability: Pack out trash or opt for a $25 fee per 13-gallon bag.
Weather: Summer (May-September) offers mild days and long daylight. Pack layers.
Why Choose Kate Kennedy House?
The Kate Kennedy House is a rare blend of history and heart, offering an intimate retreat in Alaska’s wild frontier. Families will cherish the cozy, artifact-filled rooms and kid-friendly adventures. Couples will find romance in the nostalgic charm and deep wilderness location. Adventurers will love the access to epic trails and rivers. With only two bedrooms, this exclusive haven, backed by McCarthy Lodge Resort’s exceptional care, delivers a McCarthy experience unlike any other.
Guest Reviews
“The Kate Kennedy House is pure magic! The Victrola and wood stove set the mood, and Saturday’s live music at the Golden Saloon was unforgettable.” – Laura Leigh Clarke
“The restoration is stunning, and Salmon & Bear’s salmon dinner was world-class. The 4th of July fireworks were a highlight!” – Chris B.
Book Your Alaskan Adventure
Ready to immerse in McCarthy’s history and vibrant community? The Kate Kennedy House is your base for exploring Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. With limited availability, book now to secure this historic retreat. Visit McCarthyLodge.com to check the event calendar for the McCarthy Rose Play and other events, or contact McCarthy Lodge Resort for tailored 2, 3, or 4-day adventure packages blending history, wilderness, and McCarthy’s unique spirit
