Famous for its Inside Passage- an incredibly beautiful cruise route snaking through some of the stunning wilderness of Alaska, Ketchikan is the state’s fifth-largest city. And if you happen to be an avid-traveler then this southernmost city won’t leave you disappointed. From its adventurous Salmon fishing expedition to its thrilling zip lining experience, you can’t get enough of Ketchikan. The city is touted for its pristine forest sanctuaries-home to a buttload of flora and fauna. But what makes it so special is the huge presence of Native American totem poles which carry significant meaning to the different native clan. Simply stroll along the picturesque downtown area and you’ll see the influence of the indigenous culture through paintings, and artisanal masterpieces displayed at several art galleries. Ketchikan has much more to offer, and if you don’t know where to start, then check out our comprehensive list of things to do in Ketchikan, Alaska, when you visit this destination.
1. Learn about Tlingit culture and history at Potlatch Totem Park
Just next to the Totem Bight State Park lies the privately owned Potlatch Totem Park, where you can still witness the ancient carving method of the totem poles made by the resident carvers. These native carvers are working hard to preserve their indigenous cultural heritage by creating some incredible totems which have symbolic meanings to their respective clans. Here, you will have access to the small clan houses, which were once used by indigenous people in the 19th century. These native people were originally from Alaska, Yukon, and British Columbia, and they were descendants of the Tlingit culture. Learn about the fascinating stories behind these totems and take some memorable pictures.
Potlatch Totem Park
Address: 9809 Totem Bight Rd, Ketchikan, Alaska
Opening hours: 7am - 4pm (daily)
2. Visit the 20th-century brothel-Dolly's House Museum
To perk up your trip to Ketchikan head to the famous Creek Street, which hosts an eclectic range of quaint and vibrant houses on the boardwalk. This area of Ketchikan depicts the early 20th-century history, whereby young miners, loggers, and fishermen used to hang out in bars and brothels of the once red-light district. One of the famous brothels was the Dolly House owned by Dolly Arthur, who operated the brothel till 1954 when prostitution became illegal in Ketchikan. By visiting this museum you will learn about the gold rush era, and discover a secret bar and liquor storage in the house. Enter the bedroom of the much-touted madam, and don’t be surprised if you find some pleasurable tools.
Dolly's House Museum
Address: 24 Creek St, Ketchikan, AK 99901
3. Enjoy breathtaking views from Misty Fjords National Monument
The Misty Fjords National Monument is a nature lover’s paradise. This surreal nature reserve lies about 40 miles (64 km) east of Ketchikan and it is part of the Tongass National Forest. The National Monument comprises about 2.3 million acres (928,488 ha) of a rugged landscape made up of pristine forest, waterfalls, and fjords. The spectacular fjords which are formed due to glacial erosion form a long narrow inlet of the sea, flanked by high cliffs. The area is home to rich wildlife including grizzly bears, whales, eagles, deer and mountain goats. To get the most out of its breathtaking view, it is recommended to travel on a floatplane.
Misty Fjords National Monument
Address: 716 S Tongass Hwy, Ketchikan, AK 99901
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4. Hike the challenging Deer Mountain Trail
If you happen to be an avid hiker, just take the leap of faith and begin your next adventure by hiking the 3-mile (4.8 km) trail of the Dear Mountain located in the Tongass National Forest (northeastern part of the Rocky Mountain National Park). This challenging hiking trail is reserved for adventurers who wouldn’t mind taking the strenuous route to reach out to the summit of the mountain. Along the path, hikers will pass through the temperate forests and alpine meadows. Arriving at the peak, don’t miss out on touching the summit marker, and contemplate the jaw-dropping 360-degree view. The mountain has an elevation of 3,001 feet (915 m).
Deer Mountain Trail
Address: Tongass National Forest, USGS Ketchikan B-5, USFS leaflet Deer Mountain Trail, Ketchikan, AK 99901
5. Witness the cultural show at Saxman Native Village
The Saxman Native Village, situated about 2 miles (3.2 km) south of Ketchikan, is a mecca of the mind-boggling totems which are intricately carved by the native people. Here, visitors will learn about the culture of the Beaver Clan House, where traditional songs and dances are showcased. There are 25 totems which symbolize the flourishing cultural heritage of the clans, and a representation of their wealth acquired in the 18th and 19th century. Visitors will have the chance to purchase the handcrafted works at the village store. The most anticipated programs are the lumberjack show and wood-chopping competitions.
Saxman Native Village
Address: Saxman Alaska 99901
Price: 5 USD
6. Learn local history at Tongass Historical Museum
If you wish to learn about the historical and cultural side of Ketchikan and try the local dishes at the same time, then head to Tongass Historical Museum. This attraction is ideal for those who have a limited time to spend in Ketchikan. As a first time visitor, you will be amazed to learn about the region’s fishing, mining, and timber industry, which made the place rich. There are some rare artifacts and historic photographs that you won’t find elsewhere. After your visit, tuck into the typical salmon dishes with crispy chips at the nearby restaurants.
Tongass Historical Museum
Address: 629 Dock St, Ketchikan, AK 99901
Website: Tongass Historical Museum
Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 6 USD
7. Buy Alaskan food products at the Salmon Market
Posted by Salmon Market on Sunday, 18 November 2018
The Salmon Market is a lively market, where you will be able to sample some delicious local food products. Of course, the real showstopper is the fresh salmon. If you’re heading to the market, don’t miss the chance to try the salmon crackers with cream cheese or the chowder salmon-they are excellent! Choosing the right salmon can be daunting since it usually comes in different variations: silver, king, and pink salmon, you name it. But the helpful staff at the market will certainly help you to make your decision. They are even multilingual.
Salmon Market
Address: 200 Main St, Ketchikan, AK 99901
Website: Salmon Market
8. See rare animals at Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary
One of the most popular stops of the cruise-ship is undeniably the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary, nestled in the beautiful part of the Herring Cove, just some 8 miles (12.8 km) away from the south of Ketchikan. These 40 acres (16.1 hectares) of unspoiled wildlife reserve are composed of diverse biodiversity, including marine estuaries, forest canopy made of mosses, wild plants and fruits like berries. There is interesting wildlife where lucky visitors can spot bald eagles, owls, hawks, kingfishers, black bears, and other animal species. There is a naturalist who is always going to give you an insight into the place. Some of the highlights are the raptor center, an old sawmill, and a totem-carving house.
Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary
Address: 116 Wood Rd, Ketchikan, AK 99901
Opening hours: 7am - 11pm (daily)
9. Enjoy a relaxing time at Rotary Beach
This place is by far an ideal relaxing getaway for families that want to soak up the refreshing sea breezes. The Rotary Beach (or the Bugge Beach as the locals called it) is located in the South Tongass Hwy, and it is known as the closest beach to Ketchikan. Families can spend a wonderful time at one of the several picnic spots, especially those facing the splendid view of Nichol’s Passage. Children will get to see the gorgeous starfish while playing in the tide pools. The place is filled with abundant marine wildlife consisting of salmon, seabirds, and seals.
Rotary Beach
Address: 3507 S Tongass Hwy, Ketchikan, AK 99901
10. Go boating at Knudson Cove Marina
There is a good reason why Ketchikan is called the Salmon capital, and you’ll likely get the answer by booking a fishing expedition at the Knudson Cove Marina. Located 15 miles (24 km) from the north of the Ketchikan downtown, this upscale marina offers a range of fishing activities from ‘Do It Yourself’ fishing trip to a guided charter fishing expedition. And you can expect to catch from 30 to 50 pounds (13-22 kg) of King Salmon, which can be preserved in fish transport boxes. The marina is conveniently equipped with condos which include full kitchens, deck spaces, a full line tackle shop, a liquor store, and well-equipped boats.
Knudson Cove Marina
Address: 407 Knudson Cove Rd, Ketchikan, AK 99901
Website: Knudson Cove Marina
Opening hours: 6am - 8pm (daily)
11. Check out the eateries along Creek Street
Besides being popular for its Dolly’s House Museum and Married Man’s Trail, this over-water attraction is equally lauded for its eclectic range of restaurants and cafes among hordes of tourists. Stroll along Creek Street and try some local specialties such as its seafood-king salmon, coho salmon pink salmon, pacific halibut, wild-caught shrimp, scallops, and it’s a never-ending list! Plus you can’t leave Ketchikan without tasting its crafted beers or wild berries.
Creek Street
Address: Creek St, Ketchikan, AK 99901
12. Enjoy bird watching at Tongass National Forest
Tongass National Forest is among one of the world’s last remaining temperate rainforests that’s sprawled across a 6.7 million-acre (68,000 km2) of land consisting of pristine offshore archipelagos, impressive fjords, forests, and wetlands. It is home to a buttload of endangered flora and fauna, making it a biodiversity hotspot. Thanks to the conservation initiatives, bird species like the Marbled Murrelet, Bald Eagles, and Northern Goshawks were able to flourish. This verdant sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers and photographers, where they can observe migratory birds such as the Arctic Tern.
Tongass National Forest
Address: Mission Street, Federal Building, Ketchikan, AK 99901-6591
Website: Tongass National Forest
13. Explore the interactive exhibitions at Southeast Alaska Discovery Center
There are many perks when it comes to visiting the Alaska Discovery Center. First, you will get to learn about the Ketchikan region in one place at an affordable cost. And secondly, there are three gigantic totems representing the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsim Shian cultures. Plus, the on-site theater welcomes curious visitors to learn about the history and culture of the region through a film documentary. Of course, there’s the Alaska Rainforest exhibit section, where you can learn about the rich flora and fauna of the Ketchikan’s temperate rainforest.
Alaska Discovery Center
Address: 50 Main St, Ketchikan, AK 99901
Website: Alaska Discovery Center
Opening hours: 8am - 4pm (daily)
14. Hike the Ketchikan Rainbird Trail
It is of no doubt that Ketchikan is an adventurer’s paradise consisting of many hiking trails, and one of them is the Ketchikan Rainbird Trail. This moderate hiking trail is conveniently located near the downtown cruise ship terminal. The hiking track can take up to an hour to cover the distance from the gravel to the mountain top. One of the accessible ways to start the hike is from the trailhead situated close to the University of Alaska Southeast campus. Do check for the signpost, which has some practical information about the trail. As you hike the rugged terrain, you will have the chance to contemplate some breathtaking views of the city, which surely makes the experience worth it.
Rainbird Trail
Address: 2600 7th Ave, Ketchikan, AK 99901
15. Visit the historic Chief Johnson Totem Pole
Another gorgeous totem site you must consider visiting is Chief Johnson Totem pole situated at the entrance of Creek Street. The totem was erected in 1901 to pay tribute to the native chief who used to welcome every ship stopping at Ketchikan. The sublime totem was painstakingly carved by Israel Shortridge, who created it out of a gigantic red cedar tree. The 55-foot (16-meter) totem pole is a heritage of the Tongass tribe.
Chief Johnson Totem Pole
Address: Totem Way, Ketchikan, AK 99901
16. Explore the fascinating Totem Heritage Center
The Totem Heritage Center is a three-room museum dedicated to showcasing a huge collection of the 19th-century totems which were recovered from decay. Most of these gorgeous totems underwent the process of restoration. The museum provides visitors with an insight into the symbolic meanings behind the totems through their well-kept stories. Don’t forget to visit the display room where handcrafted baskets, masks, and dug-out canoes are exhibited.
Totem Heritage Center
Address: 601 Deermount St, Ketchikan, AK 99901
Website: Totem Heritage Center
Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 6 USD
17. Check out the art pieces at Scanlon Gallery
Scanlon Gallery is one of the most popular attractions among cruise passengers and travelers alike. The gallery is a one-stop-shop for fine handcrafted arts made by local artists. It is located next to the Arctic Spirit which specializes in Alaskan native-made art, while Scanlon Gallery is known for displaying masterpieces made by local Alaskans. Visitors can purchase prints, jewelry, ceramics, carvings, art books, and photographs as a souvenir gift to bring home.
Scanlon Gallery
Address: 318 Mission St, Ketchikan, AK 99901
Website: Scanlon Gallery
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 5pm
18. Enjoy a three-hour adventure with Bering Sea Crab Fishermen's Tour
Posted by Bering Sea Crab Fishermen's Tour on Sunday, 7 April 2019
The three-hour Bering Sea Crab Fishermen’s tour is an adventure like no other. And if you’re an adventure junkie, you might have seen the deadliest catch of the Aleutian Ballad in season two of the Discovery Channel. This thrilling fishing tour takes you to the calm protected waters of Ketchikan on the Aleutian Ballad- the only licensed fishing vessel, where you’ll get to see experts in action. King crab, octopus, prawns, and even sharks are caught and put in a live tank before being released back into the ocean.
Bering Sea Crab Fishermen's Tour
Address: 316 Icehouse Ln, Ketchikan, AK 99901
Website: Bering Sea Crab Fishermen’s Tour
Opening hours: 6am - 6pm (daily)
19. Discover wonderful art at Soho Coho
Merry Christmas from the Soho Coho! We're closed today and tomorrow. We'll be open again on Thursday the 27th. Happy Holidays everybody!
Posted by Soho Coho Art Gallery on Tuesday, 25 December 2018
Soho Coho is an exceptional art gallery located on Creek Street, home to the salmon run. Visitors will get the chance to discover the wonderful artwork of local artists such as Grace Freeman. There are several displays including printed pictures, photographs, and fossils. Visitors can purchase t-shirts, jewelry, books, and interesting souvenirs. The gallery was first opened in 1992 by Michelle and Ray Troll who based their philosophy on ‘better living through difficult art.’
Soho Coho
Address: 5 Creek St, Ketchikan, Alaska 99901
Website: Soho Coho
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 5:30pm; Sun: 9am - 4pm
20. Try ziplining with Alaska Canopy Adventures
One of the best ways to discover the stunning view of Tongass National Rainforest and its incredible flora and fauna is by taking the three-hour ziplining adventure with Alaska Canopy Adventures. The company has years of experience in providing outdoor activities in Ketchikan. And when it comes to security, they are the expert. The adventure begins with a 10-minute jet boat ride across the Gastineau Channel to reach the meet-up point where you’ll find the guides. You’ll then head to the outfitting shelter, where you’ll be fully equipped. After a small briefing, the guides will take you to the top of a mountain for ziplining. The adventure consists of 10 ziplines, where you’ll get the chance to see bears in their natural setting.
Alaska Canopy Adventures
Address: 116 Wood Rd, Ketchikan, AK 99901
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm
21. Relish Seafood at Alaska Fish House
The Alaska Fish House is a definite food destination in Ketchikan located in the downtown area. This cannery-style fish and chips restaurant has not only attracted hordes of tourists and locals for its food but also for its charming location, which overlooks the harbor. You might have to wait for 15 minutes in the line to order your food, but it’s totally worth the wait. Whether you’re into trying the local specialty or a gourmet dinner, the restaurant executes your request with perfection. One of the most recommended menus is the salmon burger, which can be paired with the chilled local beer.
Alaska Fish House
Address: 3 Salmon Landing, Ketchikan, AK 99901
Website: Alaska Fish House
Opening hours: Mon - Wed: 10am - 6pm; Thurs - Sun: 10am - 9pm
22. Visit the historic Guard Island Lighthouse
The towering Guard Island Lighthouse stands majestically near the entrance of the Tongass Narrows. It was built in 1903 to help to ship freights navigate safely from Alaska to mainland America since the passageways had shallow inlets and dense fog. During the gold rush period, the lighthouse had a crucial role in guiding cargos. In 1922, the 30-foot (9-meter) tall tower was renovated and in 2004, it was listed among the national historic places. Its sublime parallelepiped architectural design complements the beautiful backdrop.
Guard Island Lighthouse
Address: Ketchikan, AK 99901, USA
23. Spot humpback whales at Whale Park
If you head 6 miles (9.6 km) south of downtown, you will likely find yourself at the Whale Park in Sitka. It’s easy to find the park as it has some fascinating life-size humpback whale sculptures. This family-friendly attraction serves as a perfect viewing spot for marine wildlife. It is equipped with gazebos, tables, and free viewing spots with fixed binoculars. To complete your viewing experience, try the hydrophone at the main shelter, where you can listen to the ‘songs’ of the whales. It is recommended to visit from September to December, and if you’re lucky, you might end up seeing gorgeous sea lions and seals.
Whale Park
Address: 829 Mill St, Ketchikan, AK 99901, USA
Website: Whale Park
24. Hang out at Fat Stan’s Sports Bar and Pizzeria
Fat Stan’s is certainly a place where you can enjoy a wonderful time with your friends over some Italian pizzas and refreshing cocktails. No wonder it has become the favorite hanging-out spot among locals and tourists alike. It’s just the right place to mingle with the locals and learn about the culture. The bar is touted for its extensive list of crafted local beers, and innovative cocktail drinks. There’s also the gluten-free options for those suffering from celiac.
Fat Stan’s Sports Bar and Pizzeria
Address: 330 Spruce Mill Way, Ketchikan, AK 99901
Opening hours: 9am - 12pm (daily)
25. Try local beers at Asylum
Asylum is an ideal spot to hang out with family and friends in the downtown area of Water Street. Here, you can try from a selection of 22 locally crafted beers to pair with the much-lauded queen burger and halibut. The cozy interior of Asylum is practically spacious and consists of bars and decks. To add some fun, check out the game room which is equipped with foosball, a pool table, pinball, and darts. And there’s free wi-fi available for those who want to stay updated with the internet.
Asylum
Address: 522 Water St, Ketchikan, AK 99901
Website: Asylum
Opening hours: 8am - 2pm (daily)
26. Eat Alaskan specialties at Bar Harbor Restaurant
There’s a good reason why hordes of ship cruise passengers make a stop at Bar Harbor Restaurant. First, its prime location makes it pretty accessible to do the shopping and second, it serves the best local specialties of the area. Located at the waterfront, this seafood restaurant excels in creating innovative local comfort dishes such as the famous clam chowder topped with chopped green onions. Whether you order the halibut tacos or the local beer, you can expect to be served promptly
Bar Harbor Restaurant
Address: 55 Schoenbar Rd #102, Ketchikan, AK 99901
Website: Bar Harbor Restaurant
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 3pm, 5pm - 8pm; Sun: 10am - 3pm
27. Go kayaking with Ketchikan Kayak Co.
Unleash your adventurous spirit on the four-hour kayaking experience with Ketchikan Kayak Co, located in the downtown area. This eco-friendly company has been operating since 2003 and is a pioneer in providing eco-friendly activities, including e-biking and a hiking tour. And if kayaking is your kind of adventure then get ready to explore the local waterways encompassing small islets. The company also offers a complimentary Wi-Fi service and locally roasted coffee or hot tea for early birds. Waterproof pants, hooded jackets, and dry bags for cameras are also provided.
Ketchikan Kayak Co
Address: 540 Water St #303, Ketchikan, AK 99901
Website: Ketchikan Kayak Co
Opening hours: 7:45am - 7pm (daily)
28. Admire scenic views along Carlanna Lake Trail
If you’re up for a moderate hike then Carlanna Lake Trail is your best bet. This ‘in-town’ hiking trail makes it a wonderful option to explore the scenic landscape of Ketchikan, where you’ll get the chance to marvel at the mountain-lake scene with herds of mountain goats grazing the lush green terrain. The 5.1-mile (8.2 km) trail leads to a rugged and muddy path. Along the way, you’ll find spots to soak up the sun or rustic decks to fish. The best time to access this trail is from March until October.
Carlanna Lake Trail
Address: Canyon Rd Ketchikan, AK 99901
29. Check out the art at Main Street Gallery
To make the most out of your time in Ketchikan head to the Main Street Gallery operated by the Art Council in view to promote incredible works of local artists. This community art space offers visitors interesting art exhibitions where they can contemplate paintings, photographs, and intricate sculpted works of creative artists. This is a good way to socialize with the locals and to participate in yoga or dance classes.
Main Street Gallery
Address: 330 Main St, Ketchikan, AK 99901, USA
Website: Main Street Gallery
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm; Sat: 11am - 3pm
30. Discover the rich heritage of Totem Bight State Historical Park
Fascinating and intriguing are words that rightly described the Totem Bight State Historical Park located in the Southeastern part of Alaska, just some 10 miles (16 km) away from the north of Ketchikan. This 33 acres (13 hectares) of lush green park carries a tremendous cultural heritage of the Native Americans who once lived here. Head to the Clan House and you’ll be amazed to find a collection of 14 dramatic totem poles which have a huge significance to the Native culture. But what is more interesting is the story behind these structures that have been passed from generation to generation through oral traditions. Another highlight of this attraction is its lush green rainforest, teamed by flourishing wildlife, including the black bears, bald eagles, and harlequin ducks.
Totem Bight State Historical Park
Address: 9883 N Tongass Hwy, Ketchikan, AK 99901
Opening hours: 7am - 6pm (daily)
Discover the totem city of Ketchikan
It’s of no wonder that Ketchikan is one of the most popular cities of Alaska, from its quaint Creek Street to its rich wildlife, there is so much to explore and learn about this charming city. And if you’re visiting this city for the first time, then consider our list of top things to do in Ketchikan.
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