What to Do in Ketchikan, Alaska: The Ultimate Cruise Port Guide

AvatarByDale Richard Cruise/Cruising

Ketchikan, Alaska: A Cruise Port with Endless Possibilities

Ketchikan, Alaska is a small town with a big personality. Located on the southern end of Alaska’s Inside Passage, Ketchikan is known for its stunning scenery, rich history, and abundance of outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day of fishing or a thrilling adventure in the wilderness, Ketchikan has something to offer everyone.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Ketchikan, exploring the many things to see and do in this charming Alaskan town. We’ll also provide tips on planning your trip, including when to go, where to stay, and how to get around.

So if you’re planning a cruise to Alaska, be sure to put Ketchikan on your list! You won’t be disappointed.

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Activity Description Cost
Scenic Flight Take a bird’s-eye view of Ketchikan and the surrounding area from a seaplane or helicopter. $100-$200
Fishing Fish for salmon, halibut, or other local fish in the waters around Ketchikan. $50-$100
Hiking Explore the rainforest on one of the many hiking trails in Ketchikan. $0-$20
Jogging Enjoy a scenic jog along the waterfront or through the city. $0
Shopping Browse the shops and boutiques in Ketchikan’s downtown area. $0-$100
Museums Visit one of Ketchikan’s many museums, including the Totem Heritage Center and the Alaska Native Heritage Museum. $5-$10

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Ketchikan is a charming city in Alaska that is home to a variety of attractions, activities, and restaurants. It is a popular cruise ship destination, and visitors often enjoy spending their days exploring the city’s many offerings. Whether you are looking for a relaxing day of shopping or an exciting adventure in the great outdoors, Ketchikan has something to offer everyone.

Ketchikan Attractions

  • Ketchikan Waterfront

The Ketchikan Waterfront is a popular spot for visitors to enjoy the scenery, take a walk, or grab a bite to eat. The waterfront is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and hotels, and it offers stunning views of the mountains and the sea. There are also several totem poles on display along the waterfront, which are a reminder of the city’s rich Native American heritage.

  • Creek Street

Creek Street is a historic district that is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars. The street is built on stilts over Ketchikan Creek, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Creek Street is also home to the Dolly’s House Museum, which is a former brothel that has been restored and turned into a museum.

  • Totem Bight State Park

Totem Bight State Park is a must-see for anyone interested in learning about Native American culture. The park is home to a collection of totem poles that were carved by the Tlingit people. The totems are beautifully carved and they tell stories about the history and culture of the Tlingit people.

  • Saxman Native Village

Saxman Native Village is a living history museum that allows visitors to learn about the traditional way of life of the Tlingit people. The village is home to a variety of totem poles, traditional houses, and a replica of a Tlingit canoe. Visitors can also take part in traditional activities such as dancing, drumming, and storytelling.

  • Misty Fiords National Park

Misty Fiords National Park is a beautiful wilderness area that is located just outside of Ketchikan. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, whales, and eagles. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, kayaking, and camping in the park.

Ketchikan Activities

In addition to the attractions listed above, there are a variety of other activities that visitors can enjoy in Ketchikan. Some of the most popular activities include:

  • Whale watching
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Shopping
  • Dining

Whale watching is one of the most popular activities in Ketchikan. The city is located in the heart of the Inside Passage, which is a major migration route for whales. Visitors can take a whale watching tour and see humpback whales, orcas, and other marine wildlife.

Fishing is another popular activity in Ketchikan. The city is located on the ocean, and there are a variety of fish that can be caught. Visitors can go fishing for salmon, halibut, and other fish.

Hiking is a great way to explore the natural beauty of Ketchikan. There are a variety of hiking trails in the area, ranging from easy to difficult. Visitors can hike through forests, past waterfalls, and to the top of mountains.

Shopping is a great way to find souvenirs and gifts to take home from your trip to Ketchikan. The city has a variety of shops, including boutiques, art galleries, and gift shops.

Dining is a great way to experience the local culture of Ketchikan. The city has a variety of restaurants, ranging from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, Alaskan cuisine, and other local specialties.

Ketchikan is a beautiful city that offers a variety of attractions, activities, and restaurants. Whether you are looking for a relaxing day of shopping or an exciting adventure in the great outdoors, Ketchikan has something to offer everyone.

3. Ketchikan Transportation

Ketchikan is a small city with a population of just over 8,000 people. It is located on the southern end of Alaska’s Inside Passage, and is a popular destination for cruise ships. There are a few different ways to get to Ketchikan, depending on your starting point.

  • By air: The Ketchikan International Airport (KTN) is located about 5 miles from downtown Ketchikan. There are direct flights to Ketchikan from Seattle, Anchorage, and Vancouver. The flight time from Seattle is about 2 hours, and the flight time from Anchorage is about 1 hour.
  • By boat: Ketchikan is a popular stop for cruise ships. There are many different cruise lines that offer cruises to Ketchikan, and the majority of them stop in Ketchikan for at least one day.
  • By car: Ketchikan is located about 300 miles from Anchorage. The drive from Anchorage to Ketchikan takes about 5 hours. The drive is mostly on paved roads, but there is a section of unpaved road that is about 20 miles long.
  • By bus: There is no direct bus service to Ketchikan. The closest bus service is in Wrangell, which is about 100 miles from Ketchikan. There are daily buses from Wrangell to Ketchikan, and the bus ride takes about 3 hours.

4. Ketchikan Accommodations

There are a variety of accommodations available in Ketchikan, ranging from hotels to bed and breakfasts to hostels. Here is a list of some of the most popular accommodations in Ketchikan:

  • Hotels:
  • The Westmark Cape Fox Lodge: This hotel is located right on the waterfront, and offers stunning views of the Ketchikan Narrows.
  • The Alaska Inn: This hotel is located in the heart of downtown Ketchikan, and is close to all of the shops and restaurants.
  • The Creekside Inn: This hotel is located on the banks of Ketchikan Creek, and offers beautiful views of the mountains.
  • Motels:
  • The Silverbow Motel: This motel is located just a short walk from the cruise ship terminal.
  • The Frontier Motel: This motel is located near the airport.
  • The Aspen Motel: This motel is located in the heart of downtown Ketchikan.
  • B&Bs:
  • The Copper River B&B: This B&B is located in a historic home in downtown Ketchikan.
  • The Alaska Rainforest B&B: This B&B is located in a wooded area just outside of downtown Ketchikan.
  • The Ketchikan Waterfront B&B: This B&B is located right on the waterfront, and offers stunning views of the mountains.
  • Hostels:
  • The Ketchikan Hostel: This hostel is located in a historic building in downtown Ketchikan.
  • The Rainforest Hostel: This hostel is located in a wooded area just outside of downtown Ketchikan.
  • The Alaska Seaside Hostel: This hostel is located right on the waterfront, and offers stunning views of the mountains.

Ketchikan is a beautiful city with a lot to offer visitors. There are plenty of things to see and do, and there are a variety of accommodations available to suit every budget. Whether you are visiting Ketchikan on a cruise ship or as a stopover on a road trip, you are sure to have a memorable experience.

What are the best things to do in Ketchikan, Alaska?

  • Visit the Totem Heritage Center to learn about the history and culture of the Tlingit people.
  • Take a cruise on the Misty Fjords National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Hike the Rainforest Trail to see old-growth rainforest and waterfalls.
  • Visit the Alaska Raptor Center to see eagles, hawks, owls, and other birds of prey.
  • Go kayaking or fishing in the Ketchikan Creek.
  • Visit the Saxman Native Village to see traditional Tlingit dance and drumming performances.
  • Take a walk or bike ride on the Ketchikan Waterfront.
  • Enjoy the nightlife in Creek Street, a historic district with bars, restaurants, and shops.

What is the best time to visit Ketchikan?

The best time to visit Ketchikan is during the summer months, from June to September. The weather is warm and sunny, and there are plenty of activities to enjoy. However, the summer months are also the most crowded, so if you’re looking for a more peaceful experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons, from May to June or September to October.

How do I get to Ketchikan?

The easiest way to get to Ketchikan is by plane. Ketchikan International Airport (KTN) is located just a few miles from downtown. There are also direct flights from Seattle, Vancouver, and Anchorage. If you’re coming from a different city, you can fly into one of these cities and then take a connecting flight to Ketchikan.

You can also get to Ketchikan by boat. The Alaska Marine Highway System offers ferry service to Ketchikan from ports all over Alaska. The ferry ride can take anywhere from 10 hours to 2 days, depending on your starting point.

Where should I stay in Ketchikan?

There are a variety of hotels, bed and breakfasts, and hostels in Ketchikan. The best place to stay depends on your budget and interests. If you’re looking for a central location, consider staying in Creek Street or the downtown area. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, there are several hotels and bed and breakfasts outside of the city center.

What is the currency in Ketchikan?

The currency in Ketchikan is the United States dollar.

Do I need a passport to visit Ketchikan?

Yes, you need a passport to visit Ketchikan.

What is the time zone in Ketchikan?

Ketchikan is in the Alaska Time Zone.

How far is Ketchikan from Anchorage?

Ketchikan is about 320 miles from Anchorage.

What is the weather like in Ketchikan?

The weather in Ketchikan is typically mild and rainy. The average temperature in July is 64 degrees Fahrenheit, and the average temperature in January is 34 degrees Fahrenheit.

What are the most popular tours in Ketchikan?

The most popular tours in Ketchikan include:

  • Misty Fjords National Park Tour
  • Totem Heritage Center Tour
  • Alaska Raptor Center Tour
  • Saxman Native Village Tour
  • Creek Street Walking Tour
  • Ketchikan Creek Kayaking Tour
  • Fishing Tour
  • Whale Watching Tour

    Ketchikan is a beautiful and vibrant city in Alaska that offers visitors a variety of things to see and do. From exploring the natural beauty of the rainforest to learning about the local culture, there is something for everyone in Ketchikan. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, you are sure to have a memorable time in Ketchikan.

Here are a few key takeaways from this article:

  • Ketchikan is located on the southern coast of Alaska and is home to a diverse population of people.
  • The city is surrounded by lush rainforests and offers visitors a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, and kayaking.
  • Ketchikan is also home to a number of historical and cultural attractions, such as the Totem Heritage Center and the Alaska Native Brotherhood Hall.
  • Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway or an exciting adventure, Ketchikan is the perfect destination for your next trip to Alaska.

I hope you enjoyed this article and found it helpful in planning your trip to Ketchikan. If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact me.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.