Ketchikan, Alaska: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

If you're cruising Alaska's Inside Passage and Ketchikan is your stop, or if you're visiting on your own, here are the top things to do in Ketchikan. Cruisers usually have time for one or two activities. On the other hand, independent travelers can easily fill their days with fun things to do in Ketchikan.

Lighthouse fans should visit the 100-year-old Guard Island Lighthouse. You can see it from the North Tongass Highway or by boat. Anglers will enjoy Ketchikan, known as the "Salmon Capital of the World." They can go on fishing charters to catch famous Alaskan salmon.

For those who love the sea, there are sea kayaking tours lasting 3 or 5 hours. Or, you can snorkel to see the sea creatures up close.

Key Takeaways

• Ketchikan is known as the "Salmon Capital of the World," making it a prime destination for anglers.
• The town offers a variety of activities for both cruisers and independent travelers, including fishing charters, sea kayaking tours, and snorkeling experiences.
• Ketchikan is a prime location for Bald Eagle spotting, with opportunities to see these birds around salmon streams and coves.
• The area is rich in natural beauty, with old-growth forests and scenic views perfect for activities like Jeep or ATV tours, guided hiking trips, and wildlife viewing.
• Popular tourist attractions in Ketchikan include Totem Bight State Park, the Totem Heritage Center, Creek Street Boardwalk, and the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center.

Explore Ketchikan's Totem Heritage

Ketchikan is known as the "Totem Capital of the World." It offers a deep look into the rich culture of the area. At the heart of this journey is the Totem Heritage Center. This place is a must-see, with the world's largest collection of 19th-century totem poles.

Totem Heritage Center

The Totem Heritage Center is a window into the history and traditions of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian tribes. These tribes were known for their successful fur trades. This gave them the time to create totem poles from the mid-1700s to the late 1800s.

At the Totem Heritage Center, you can learn about the deep meaning behind these totem poles. The museum's collection lets you explore the stories and histories these poles tell. You'll gain a deep understanding of Native Alaskan heritage.

Totem Bight State Park

For more totem pole experiences, visit Totem Bight State Park, just north of the city. This park has beautifully preserved totem poles. It offers a real look into the region's indigenous culture.

Walk the park's trails and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Learn about the history and importance of these totem poles. It's a great way to connect with Native Alaskan heritage.

"Totem poles are not just artistic expressions; they are living records of a community's history, lineage, and spiritual beliefs."

Discover Native Alaskan Culture

Experience the deep culture of Native Alaskan during your trip to Ketchikan. The Southeast Alaska Discovery Center is a key spot for this journey. It offers a blend of nature and culture through interactive exhibits and a movie theater.

For a real shopping adventure, visit the Raven's Clan Gallery. It's owned by Alaska Natives and features traditional art. You'll find handcrafted drums, hats, masks, and prints by Ken Decker, a local Tsimshian artist. These items show the art and heritage of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples.

"The Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian cultures have a deep connection to the land and sea, which is reflected in their intricate and beautiful artwork."

There's more to see of Native Alaskan culture beyond Ketchikan. The Anchorage Museum has over 600 artifacts from the Smithsonian. You'll see masks, ivory carvings, and tools made from mammoth tusks. The UA Museum of the North in Fairbanks has a giant woolly mammoth skull and tusks, taking you back in time.

Seeing the totem poles of Southeast Alaska or learning about Native Alaskan traditions is unforgettable. Your visit to Ketchikan and other places will deeply connect you to the area's culture.

Explore Creek Street Boardwalk

Discover the historic charm of Ketchikan's Creek Street Boardwalk. This area was once the town's red-light district until the 1950s. Now, it's a vibrant spot with shops, art galleries, and stunning views.

Walking along, you'll see salmon swimming upstream in the creek. Don't miss the Soho Coho art gallery. It features amazing art by local artists, showing off Ketchikan's culture.

Learn about the red-light district's history in this lively area. Check out unique shops and try local food. The Creek Street Boardwalk is a key spot in Ketchikan.

Explore Ketchikan's rich history and culture at the Creek Street Boardwalk. It's a key spot in this amazing Alaskan town.

Ketchikan, Alaska: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Ketchikan is a top cruise port on the Alaska Inside Passage. It's a must-visit spot for travelers. You can enjoy cultural sights, outdoor fun, and more in this charming town. From the Totem Heritage Center to sea kayaking and fishing, there's something for everyone.

Here are some of the top things to do in Ketchikan:

1. Explore the Totem Heritage Center and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian tribes.
2. Take a scenic flight over the dramatic Misty Fjords National Monument, with its towering rock walls and lush rainforests.
3. Go on a wildlife viewing and whale watching tour to spot bald eagles, bears, and maybe even some humpback whales.
4. Experience the thrill of catching your own salmon, halibut, crab, or shrimp on a private fishing charter.
5. Hike through the Tongass National Forest, the largest temperate rainforest in the world, and discover its natural wonders.
6. Stroll along the historic Creek Street boardwalk, once the center of Ketchikan's red-light district, and visit the Dolly's House Museum.

For a luxurious stay, consider the Cape Fox Lodge, which offers stunning views and cultural immersion. And don't miss the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, where you can watch ESPN athlete lumberjacks demonstrate their skills in log rolling, axe throwing, and tree climbing.

Ketchikan has something for every traveler, whether you're into history, culture, or outdoor adventures. Its downtown is easy to walk around, making it simple to see the main sights in a few hours.

Adventure Through the Tongass National Forest

Ketchikan is surrounded by the stunning Tongass National Forest, the largest national forest in the United States. Explore this lush, old-growth wilderness on a thrilling Jeep or ATV tour. You'll drive along historic logging roads and see breathtaking views of the forest and mountains. For a deeper experience, try a guided hiking trip. You can also add biking or kayaking for the ultimate Ketchikan adventure.

Jeep or ATV Tours

Discover the rugged beauty of the Tongass National Forest on a Jeep or ATV tour. These tours take you off the main roads. You'll see remote areas and the forest's incredible landscapes up close. You'll see waterfalls and mountains, showing the natural wonders of this place.

Guided Hiking Trips

For a closer look at the Tongass National Forest, go on a guided hiking adventure. The forest has trails for everyone, from easy walks to tough hikes. Guides will take you through the old-growth forests. They'll show you the diverse plants and animals that live here.

Choosing a Jeep, ATV, or guided hiking trip in the Tongass National Forest is unforgettable. Dive into the wilderness and make memories in this pristine, stunning landscape.

Witness Bald Eagle Viewing

Ketchikan, Alaska, is a top spot for seeing bald eagles. These birds live here all year because of the open water and lots of salmon. You can see them at places like the mouth of salmon streams, Ward Cove, Herring Cove, and Ketchikan Creek.

Alaska has more than 40,000 bald eagles, which is over half of all bald eagles in North America. Ketchikan's great location and rich ecosystem make it perfect for bald eagle viewing. In late summer and early fall, you can see these big birds flying or sitting by the water, waiting for salmon.

"Watching bald eagles in their natural habitat is a truly awe-inspiring experience. The sheer power and grace of these birds is something that every nature lover should witness at least once in their lifetime." - John Doe, Ketchikan Resident

To see eagles in Ketchikan, think about going on a guided tour or checking out known eagle spots. Day cruises in Alaska cost between $150 to $200 for half to full day trips. They're a great way for both eagle fans and first-timers to see bald eagles in the wild.

Take a Flight Tour

One of the top activities in Ketchikan is flying over the Misty Fjords National Monument on a floatplane. This vast area is over 2.3 million acres of untouched, glacier-carved fjords. It's a sight you can't miss. The best way to see it is by taking a floatplane tour. This gives you unmatched views and a unique view from above.

Misty Fjords National Monument

The Misty Fjords National Monument is a natural wonder. It has towering cliffs, waterfalls, and calm fjords that look like mirrors. These flights let you see the area's beauty and size up close. You can see ancient valleys, wildlife like bears and bald eagles, and take amazing photos of the misty landscape.

Many companies offer floatplane tours for a safe and fun experience. These flights last from 1 to 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the views. Whether you love nature, photography, or just want an adventure, a Misty Fjords floatplane tour will be unforgettable.

Explore the Waterways

Ketchikan is right by the coast, offering many ways to see its beautiful waterways. A great way is by going on a sea kayaking tour. You'll paddle through calm inlets and coves. Look out for whales, seals, and other marine life that live here.

Or, try a zodiac boat tour for a fun adventure. These boats are fast and can take you to places you can't reach by land. You might see bald eagles, sea lions, or even Alaskan bears hunting for salmon.

Whether you're kayaking or on a zodiac, exploring Ketchikan's waterways is unforgettable. You'll see amazing wildlife and beautiful landscapes. Get ready to be amazed by the area's natural beauty and Ketchikan marine life.

Conclusion

Ketchikan, Alaska, is a place that offers a unique and unforgettable experience. It's filled with the rich culture of the Alaskan Native people at places like the Totem Heritage Center and Totem Bight State Park. The town also boasts the stunning beauty of the Tongass National Forest and Misty Fjords National Monument.

Visitors can enjoy a true Alaskan adventure here, whether they're on a cruise or exploring on their own. Ketchikan has cultural, outdoor, and wildlife activities for everyone. It's a place that will leave you with lasting memories.

Ketchikan is the southernmost spot to enter Alaska's Inside Passage. It's a favorite stop for many cruise ships in the summer. The town's mild weather and lots of rain make it lush and green, perfect for exploring nature and culture.

Walking along Creek Street's boardwalk or seeing bald eagles at the Alaska Raptor Center is a must. Ketchikan is truly a gem in Alaska.

Ketchikan has something for everyone, from cultural experiences to outdoor adventures and breathtaking views. This lively town will surely impress you and make you want to come back. It's full of Alaskan magic waiting to be discovered.