Looking for an unforgettable Alaska experience filled with culture, nature, and coastal charm? Head to Ketchikan! Known as the "Salmon Capital of the World" and gateway to the Inside Passage, Ketchikan is famous for its Native Alaskan heritage, colorful waterfront, and lush rainforest. Whether you’re exploring totem poles, kayaking in Misty Fjords, or strolling Creek Street, Ketchikan offers a rich mix of history and natural beauty.
Ketchikan, AK Highlights:
- For Culture Lovers: Explore Totem Bight State Historical Park – Admire towering totem poles and learn about the Tlingit and Haida cultures.
- For History Fans: Walk along Creek Street – A historic boardwalk lined with shops, galleries, and former "red light" establishments built on stilts.
- For Nature Seekers: Take a floatplane tour of Misty Fjords National Monument – View towering cliffs, waterfalls, and glacial landscapes from the sky.
- For Anglers: Go fishing for salmon or halibut – Join a charter for some of the best sportfishing in Alaska.
- For Wildlife Watchers: Spot bears, eagles, and seals – Especially active during salmon runs near Herring Cove and along the rainforest trails.
When I like to visit Ketchikan, AK
The best time to visit Ketchikan is from May to September during Alaska’s cruise season. This period offers the warmest weather, wildlife activity, and fully operational tours. Be prepared for rain—Ketchikan is in a rainforest and sees frequent showers even in summer.
Tips for getting to Ketchikan, AK
- By Plane: Fly into Ketchikan International Airport (KTN), just across the Tongass Narrows with ferry access to downtown.
- By Ferry: The Alaska Marine Highway System connects Ketchikan with other Southeast Alaska communities and Bellingham, Washington.
- By Cruise: Ketchikan is a major stop on Inside Passage cruises, with a lively waterfront port area for cruise passengers.
Where I like to stay in Ketchikan, AK
- Inn at Creek Street – Cozy waterfront inn with historic charm right along the boardwalk.
- Cape Fox Lodge – Scenic hilltop lodge accessible via funicular with great views and local dining.
- Black Bear Inn – Upscale B&B with views of Tongass Narrows and peaceful surroundings.
Best Things to Do in Ketchikan, AK
1. Kayak, Cruise, and Marvel at Towering Cliffs in Misty Fjords National Monument
Misty Fjords National Monument is a breathtaking Alaskan destination composed of snowcapped peaks, steep fjords, blue glacial lakes, sea cliffs, rock walls, and towering waterfalls. It is the largest wilderness in Alaska’s national forests and the second largest in the United States. The natural mosaic is absolutely breathtaking, and the view is worth going through the dense rainforests and misty slopes that surround it. The granite monument extends over 2.3 million acres across the Tongass National Forest and there are extraordinary canals and other waterways you’ll come across during your exploration. Be sure to visit some of the preserve’s most picturesque areas such as Rudyerd Bay, Punchbowl Cove, and Walker Cove.
3031 Tongass Ave, Ketchikan, AK 99901, Phone: 907-225-2148
2. Walk Through Lush Forests and Spot Wildlife at Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary
For an educational and fun outdoor adventure for the entire family, head to the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary. The unique experience lets you see a more in-depth side to the 40-acre rainforest reserve while coming across the diverse flora and fauna that reside within it. The walking tour will put you up close and personal with the lush grassy wetlands, creeks overflowing with salmon, and animals such as eagles, seals, and bears. There are many activities along the way too; you can try your hand at crossing suspension bridges, axe throwing, or ziplining. Other things you’re able to see and do at the sanctuary include visiting a historical Alaskan sawmill, exploring the Alaska Raptor Center’s aviary exhibits, and observing a native master totem pole carver at work.
116 Wood Rd, Ketchikan, AK 99901, Phone: 907-225-5503
3. Learn About Alaska’s Wild Lands and Cultures at the Discovery Center
Located in downtown Ketchikan, the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center is a great place to visit at the start of your trip as it’s filled with so much information about the unique natural and cultural history of the area. You’ll get a better understanding of the land and its people with exhibits that will enable you to visit a recreated native fishing village or take a walk through a lush rainforest. The friendly Forest Service rangers are professional and are more than happy to answer your questions as you go on your guided walk. Other aspects include enjoying a film in their theater or letting the little ones have a go at being Junior Rangers.
50 Main St, Ketchikan, AK 99901, Phone: 907-228-6220
4. Explore Stunning Totem Poles and Native Art at Totem Bight State Park
The origin of Totem Bight State Historical Park came long before the park was actually established; in the early 1900s, many Natives Alaskans were forced to move out of their settlements in search of work because of the non-native settlements that had come in and refused to barter. Over 30 years later, these abandoned villages and totem poles had become eroded by the weather and overgrown by their forest surrounding. The US Forest Service initiated a program that enabled skilled older carvers to not only help repair or duplicate the totem poles, but also teach their skills to young artisans so that the tradition could continue. Many of those you’ll see at the park today will either be restored originals or exact replicas made with the same handmade tools and natural paints that were originally used.
9883 N Tongass Hwy, Ketchikan, AK 99901
5. Hike, Fish, and Roam the Largest Temperate Rainforest at Tongass National Forest
At 16.7 million acres and covering most of Southeast Alaska, Tongass National Forest is the largest national forest in the US. Hundreds of nature lovers, adventure seekers, birdwatchers, wildlife enthusiasts, and photographers flock to the forest every year to view the stunning flora and fauna that fills it. You can stroll along the boardwalk trails, go hiking, relax in the remote cabins scattered throughout the forest, take a dog sled ride on a glacier, or go fishing in one of the most thriving salmon streams. Immerse yourself in Native Alaskan culture at Southeast Alaska Discovery Center, view the bears in their natural habitat in the Pack Creek Brown Bear Viewing Area, or get a rare glimpse of eagles at the Anan Wildlife Observatory.
Southeast Alaska Discovery Center: 50 Main Street, Ketchikan, AK 99901, Phone: 907-228-6220
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
6. Challenge Yourself with Sweeping Summit Views on the Deer Mountain Trail
Deer Mountain Trail is an extremely difficult trail in Ketchikan that is great for seasoned adventurers who have experience with hiking in similar conditions. The trail is over 2.75 miles one way, and can take anywhere from 3.5 to 4 hours. You will reach elevations of over 2,600 feet and it should be noted that the weather on Deer Mountain is unpredictable and snow persists well into the summer. While some small sections of the trail are gravel, wooden stairs, or boardwalk, most of it is a narrow, natural tread. The trail ends at Deer Mountain Shelter, where you can decide on whether you want to relax and head back, spend the night (on a first-come, first-served basis), or continue on to Silvis Lakes traverse.
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
7. Step Into Alaska Native Heritage at Potlatch Totem Park
Potlatch Totem Park is an extensive educational center where visitors of all ages can familiarize themselves with Tlingit culture and history. The privately owned park is built on an old fishing ground and preserves and celebrates this ancient Native Alaskan craft. Visitors will go through five different clan houses, each of which showcases dioramas filled with information on the area’s tribes, hand-carved and colored to portray the way families lived in the communal setting. The park also has the Carving Center, where you can watch resident carvers practice this ancient art, learn about their unique tools and techniques, and even give it a try yourself.
9809 Totem Bight Road, Ketchikan, AK 99901, Phone: 907-225-4445
8. Stroll Historic Boardwalks and Shop Along Creek Street
No visit to Ketchikan is complete without a visit to Creek Street, which is actually a boardwalk mounted on a slope beside Ketchikan Creek. The boardwalk is filled with unique shops, cafés, restaurants, and some of the best salmon-viewing spots in the area. It’s listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places and is famed for having been Ketchikan’s red light district up till the 1950s. Many of the attractions you’ll come across commemorate that part of their past, including the Dolly’s House brothel, which has since been converted into a museum. Take your time when strolling the lovely stretch and enjoy all the local art and culture while you’re there.
9. If You Want to Witness Living Traditions, Visit Saxman Native Village
Saxman Native Village is one of the must-visit totem pole parks in Ketchikan as it has the largest collection of standing totem poles in the world. There are 25 totem poles to see, all of which are authentic replicas of original poles found in villages abandoned by Native Alaskans. You can tour the open-air park on your own or join a guided tour to learn more about each pole’s history. In addition to the totem poles, the village is also home to an on-site clan house and a carving shed where you may be able to see native carvers work on projects using traditional techniques and tools. Another fun thing to do while there is witness the native dancing exhibition, which is performed at specific times throughout the day.
2706 South Tongass Hwy, Ketchikan, AK 99901
Where I Like to Eat in Ketchikan, AK
- Alaska Fish House – Fresh-caught seafood with harbor views, known for halibut and chowder.
- Annabelle’s Famous Keg & Chowder House – Rustic pub-style spot with hearty Alaskan comfort food.
- Sweet Mermaids Café – Cozy café and boutique with coffee, light bites, and gifts in one place.
My favorite local events:
- Blueberry Arts Festival (August) – Local arts, crafts, food, and entertainment celebrating the summer blueberry harvest.
- Winter Arts Faire (November) – Holiday market featuring handmade gifts, music, and festive atmosphere.
- Fourth of July Celebration – Parades, street games, and fireworks over the harbor.
My favorite day trips within 30 Minutes of Ketchikan, Alaska:
- Herring Cove – Great place to view bears during salmon runs (July–September).
- Saxman Native Village – See one of the largest collections of totem poles and watch master carvers at work.
- Ward Lake Recreation Area – Easy trails around a peaceful lake with picnic spots and fishing.
- Clover Pass – Launch point for kayaking, boating, and wildlife tours on the northern edge of town.
- Deer Mountain Trail – Challenging hike offering spectacular panoramic views over the city and beyond.
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