Quick Summary:

  • Where is Haines located?
    • Haines is located along the northern part of Alaska's Panhandle and serves as a popular destination for tourists.
  • Why do tourists visit Haines?
  • What is Haines best known for?
    • The region is best known as the site of the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, which provides a sanctuary for one of the largest gatherings of bald eagles in the world.
  • Are there any annual events in Haines?
    • Haines is home to the annual Southeast Alaska State Fair in July, featuring local arts, music, and cultural celebrations.
  • What attractions can visitors explore in Haines?
    • Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of natural attractions, explore cultural galleries and museums, and take advantage of excursion tour companies for guided adventures.


  • Updated with new information since originally published.
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  • Our editors recommend these diverse local experiences.

1. See Alaska’s wildlife up close at Kroschel Films Wildlife Center ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Category: Activities
See Alaska’s wildlife up close at Kroschel Films Wildlife Center | Things to Do in Haines, Alaska
© Courtesy of richardseeley - Fotolia.com

2. See the scenic Chilkoot River ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Category: Activities
See the scenic Chilkoot River | Things to Do in Haines, Alaska
© Courtesy of mscornelius - Fotolia.com

3. Hop aboard Haines-Skagway Fast Ferry

Hop aboard Haines-Skagway Fast Ferry | Things to Do in Haines, Alaska
© Haines-Skagway Fast Ferry

4. See eagles at Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve

Category: Activities
See eagles at Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve | Things to Do in Haines, Alaska
© Courtesy of Uryadnikov Sergey - Fotolia.com

5. Visit the unique Hammer Museum

Category: Museums & Culture
Visit the unique Hammer Museum | Things to Do in Haines, Alaska
© The Hammer Museum

6. Sample artisanal spirits at Port Chilkoot Distillery

Category: Food & Drink
Sample artisanal spirits at Port Chilkoot Distillery | Things to Do in Haines, Alaska
© Port Chilkoot Distillery

7. The American Bald Eagle Foundation Museum

Category: Museums & Culture
The American Bald Eagle Foundation Museum | Things to Do in Haines, Alaska
© Courtesy of Aleksandr Kondratov - Fotolia.com

8. Spend a rainy day at Haines Borough Public Library

Category: Kids & Family
Spend a rainy day at Haines Borough Public Library | Things to Do in Haines, Alaska
© Haines Borough Public Library

9. Learn about the culture of the Haines region at Sheldon Museum and Cultural Center

Category: Attractions
Learn about the culture of the Haines region at Sheldon Museum and Cultural Center | Things to Do in Haines, Alaska
© Sheldon Museum and Cultural Center

10. Observe wildlife at Chilkat River

Category: Activities
Observe wildlife at Chilkat River | Things to Do in Haines, Alaska
© Courtesy of mscornelius - Fotolia.com

11. Go canoeing in Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Area

Category: Activities
Go canoeing in Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Area | Things to Do in Haines, Alaska
© Courtesy of fmcginn - Fotolia.com

12. Taste unique flavors at Haines Brewing Company

Category: Food & Drink
Taste unique flavors at Haines Brewing Company | Things to Do in Haines, Alaska
© Haines Brewing Company

13. Visit the interpretive center at Chilkat State Park

Category: Activities
Visit the interpretive center at Chilkat State Park | Things to Do in Haines, Alaska
© Courtesy of mscornelius - Fotolia.com

14. See the artifacts at Jilkaat Kwaan Heritage Center

Category: Attractions
See the artifacts at Jilkaat Kwaan Heritage Center | Things to Do in Haines, Alaska
© Jilkaat Kwaan Heritage Center

15. Hike on Battery Point Trail

Category: Activities
Hike on Battery Point Trail | Things to Do in Haines, Alaska
© Courtesy of wildnerdpix - Fotolia.com

16. Attend a lecture at Alaska Indian Arts in Haines

Category: Museums & Culture
Attend a lecture at Alaska Indian Arts in Haines | Things to Do in Haines, Alaska
© Courtesy of bagira_87 - Fotolia.com

17. Go fishing in Sullivan Island State Marine Park

Category: Activities
Go fishing in Sullivan Island State Marine Park | Things to Do in Haines, Alaska
© Courtesy of igzotic - Fotolia.com

18. Enjoy wildlife watching in Saint James Bay State Marine Park

Category: Activities
Enjoy wildlife watching in Saint James Bay State Marine Park | Things to Do in Haines, Alaska
© Courtesy of mscornelius - Fotolia.com

19. Go on a tour with Rainbow Glacier Adventures LLC

Tours
Go on a tour with Rainbow Glacier Adventures LLC | Things to Do in Haines, Alaska
© Courtesy of mscornelius - Fotolia.com

20. Go on a tour with Chilkat Guides, Ltd.

Tours
Go on a tour with Chilkat Guides, Ltd. | Things to Do in Haines, Alaska
© Courtesy of Alysta - Fotolia.com

21. Grab lunch at Mountain Market and Spirits

Category: Shopping
Grab lunch at Mountain Market and Spirits | Things to Do in Haines, Alaska
© Mountain Market and Spirits

22. Have breakfast at The Bamboo Room and Pioneer Bar

Category: Food & Drink
Have breakfast at The Bamboo Room and Pioneer Bar | Things to Do in Haines, Alaska
© The Bamboo Room and Pioneer Bar

23. Step back in time at Fort William H. Seward National Historic Landmark

Category: Activities
Step back in time at Fort William H. Seward National Historic Landmark | Things to Do in Haines, Alaska
© Moelyn Photos/stock.adobe.com

24. Play a round of golf at Valley of the Eagles Golf Links

Play a round of golf at Valley of the Eagles Golf Links | Things to Do in Haines, Alaska
© edojob/stock.adobe.com


Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Crisp air and emerging wildlife. Halsingland Hotel – A historic hotel with stunning views. Visit the American Bald Eagle Foundation – Learn about the local wildlife and conservation efforts.
Summer (June-August) – Ideal for outdoor activities and long daylight hours. Captain's Choice Motel – A comfortable stay with easy access to local attractions. Explore Chilkoot Lake – Great for kayaking, fishing, and bear watching.
Fall (September-November) – Beautiful foliage and prime time for eagle spotting. Hotel Halsingland – A charming, historic stay with a great location. Attend the Alaska Bald Eagle Festival – A unique event celebrating the annual gathering of bald eagles.

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