What to Do in Ketchikan Cruise Port: A 2-Day Itinerary

AvatarByDale Richard Cruise/Cruising

Ketchikan: The Gateway to Alaska

Ketchikan is a charming city on the southern coast of Alaska, and it’s a popular port of call for cruise ships. With its stunning scenery, rich history, and abundance of outdoor activities, Ketchikan has something to offer everyone.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Ketchikan, and we’ll explore some of the best things to do in the city. We’ll also provide tips on planning your trip, and we’ll give you some advice on where to stay and eat.

So if you’re planning a cruise to Alaska, be sure to put Ketchikan on your list!

Activity Description Cost
Scenic Floatplane Tour Take a scenic flight over Ketchikan’s rainforest and waterways. $100-$200
Cruise the Inside Passage Take a cruise through the beautiful Inside Passage, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. $100-$200
Visit the Totem Poles See the world’s largest collection of totem poles at Saxman Native Village. $10-$20
Go Fishing Fish for salmon, halibut, or other seafood in the pristine waters of Ketchikan. $50-$100
Take a Hike Explore the rainforest on one of Ketchikan’s many hiking trails. $0-$20
Visit the Museum Learn about the history and culture of Ketchikan at the Totem Heritage Center. $10-$20

Ketchikan is a city in Alaska that is located on the Tongass Narrows, an arm of the Inside Passage. The city is known for its totem poles, fishing, and outdoor activities. There are many things to do in Ketchikan, including sightseeing, hiking and camping, fishing, and whale watching.

Sightseeing

Ketchikan Waterfront

The Ketchikan Waterfront is a popular spot for tourists. The waterfront is lined with shops, restaurants, and bars. There are also several totem poles on the waterfront, including the Totem Heritage Center. The Totem Heritage Center is a museum that houses a collection of totem poles from the Tlingit and Haida peoples.

Creek Street

Creek Street is a historic district that is located on a hillside overlooking the Ketchikan waterfront. Creek Street is known for its bars, restaurants, and shops. It is also home to the Dolly’s House Museum, which is a former brothel that has been turned into a museum.

Totem Bight State Park

Totem Bight State Park is a state park that is located on the Ketchikan waterfront. The park is home to a collection of totem poles that were carved by the Tlingit and Haida peoples. The totem poles are displayed in a natural setting, and they provide a glimpse into the culture of the Tlingit and Haida peoples.

Saxman Native Village

Saxman Native Village is a Tlingit village that is located on the Ketchikan waterfront. The village is home to a number of totem poles, as well as a traditional longhouse. Visitors can learn about the culture and history of the Tlingit people at the Saxman Native Village Visitor Center.

Misty Fjords National Monument

Misty Fjords National Monument is a national monument that is located about 40 miles from Ketchikan. The monument is home to a number of fjords, glaciers, and waterfalls. Visitors can take a boat tour of the fjords, or they can hike or camp in the monument.

Hiking and Camping

Deer Mountain Trail

The Deer Mountain Trail is a challenging hiking trail that leads to the summit of Deer Mountain. The trail is about 5 miles long, and it offers stunning views of Ketchikan and the surrounding area.

Tongass National Forest

The Tongass National Forest is the largest national forest in the United States. The forest is located in southeast Alaska, and it is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, moose, and wolves. There are a number of hiking trails in the Tongass National Forest, and there are also several campgrounds.

Rainbow Falls

Rainbow Falls is a waterfall that is located about 10 miles from Ketchikan. The waterfall is about 200 feet high, and it is a popular spot for hikers and photographers.

Petersburg Creek Trail

The Petersburg Creek Trail is a moderate hiking trail that leads to a waterfall. The trail is about 3 miles long, and it offers stunning views of Petersburg Creek and the surrounding mountains.

Signal Creek Trail

The Signal Creek Trail is an easy hiking trail that leads to a viewpoint. The trail is about 1 mile long, and it offers views of Ketchikan and the surrounding area.

Ketchikan is a beautiful city that has a lot to offer visitors. There are many things to do in Ketchikan, including sightseeing, hiking and camping, fishing, and whale watching. Whether you are looking for a relaxing vacation or an adventurous getaway, Ketchikan is the perfect destination for you.

Fishing

Ketchikan is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts, with a variety of fish species to be found in the waters surrounding the city. Salmon fishing is the most popular activity, with king salmon, silver salmon, sockeye salmon, and chum salmon all being caught in the area. Halibut fishing is also a popular option, with halibut weighing up to 500 pounds being caught in the waters around Ketchikan. Other fish species that can be found in the area include steelhead, trout, and rockfish.

There are a number of different fishing charters available in Ketchikan, catering to all levels of experience. For those who are new to fishing, there are charters that will provide all of the necessary equipment and instruction. For more experienced anglers, there are charters that will take you to the best fishing spots and provide you with the opportunity to catch some of the largest fish in the area.

No matter what your skill level, you’re sure to have a great time fishing in Ketchikan. The fishing is excellent, the scenery is beautiful, and the people are friendly. So if you’re looking for a great fishing destination, be sure to add Ketchikan to your list.

Salmon fishing

Salmon fishing is the most popular activity in Ketchikan, and for good reason. The waters around the city are home to a variety of salmon species, including king salmon, silver salmon, sockeye salmon, and chum salmon. King salmon are the largest of the salmon species, and they can weigh up to 50 pounds. Silver salmon are a bit smaller, but they are more plentiful. Sockeye salmon are also a popular target, and they are known for their bright red flesh. Chum salmon are the smallest of the salmon species, but they are still a delicious fish to catch.

The best time to go salmon fishing in Ketchikan is during the summer months, from June to September. This is when the salmon are migrating from the ocean to their spawning grounds in the streams and rivers. The best fishing spots are located in the channels and fjords around Ketchikan. These areas are home to a variety of salmon-rich marine life, including herring, krill, and squid.

If you’re new to salmon fishing, there are a number of charters available in Ketchikan that will provide you with all of the necessary equipment and instruction. For more experienced anglers, there are a number of public fishing spots that you can access on your own.

Halibut fishing

Halibut fishing is another popular activity in Ketchikan. Halibut are a flatfish that can weigh up to 500 pounds. They are found in the waters around Ketchikan from April to October. The best time to go halibut fishing is during the summer months, when the water is warmer. The best fishing spots are located in the channels and fjords around Ketchikan. These areas are home to a variety of halibut-rich marine life, including herring, krill, and squid.

Halibut fishing is a challenging but rewarding activity. Halibut are strong fighters, and they can take you on a long, exciting fight. If you’re successful, you’ll be rewarded with a delicious meal of fresh halibut.

Steelhead fishing

Steelhead are a type of rainbow trout that live in the ocean and migrate to freshwater streams to spawn. They are found in the waters around Ketchikan from April to October. The best time to go steelhead fishing is during the summer months, when the water is warmer. The best fishing spots are located in the streams and rivers around Ketchikan. These areas are home to a variety of steelhead-rich marine life, including salmon, herring, and krill.

Steelhead fishing is a challenging but rewarding activity. Steelhead are strong fighters, and they can take you on a long, exciting fight. If you’re successful, you’ll be rewarded with a delicious meal of fresh steelhead.

Trout fishing

Trout are a type of freshwater fish that are found in the streams and rivers around Ketchikan. They are found in the waters around Ketchikan from April to October. The best time to go trout fishing is during the summer months, when the water is warmer. The best fishing spots are located in the streams and rivers around Ketchikan. These areas are home to a variety of trout-rich marine life, including insects, worms, and minnows.

Trout fishing is a relaxing and enjoyable activity. Trout are not as strong fighters as salmon or halibut, but they can still put up a good fight. If you’re

What are the best things to do in Ketchikan cruise port?

  • Visit the Totem Heritage Center. This museum is home to a collection of totem poles and other Native American artifacts. You can learn about the history and culture of the Tlingit people, who have lived in the area for centuries.
  • Take a boat tour of the Misty Fjords National Monument. This stunning natural area is home to towering mountains, waterfalls, and glaciers. You can see wildlife such as whales, seals, and bears.
  • Go kayaking or hiking in the Tongass National Forest. This vast forest is home to a variety of hiking trails and kayaking routes. You can explore the rainforest, mountains, and coastline.
  • Visit the Alaska Raptor Center. This center is home to a variety of birds of prey, including eagles, hawks, and owls. You can learn about these fascinating creatures and see them up close.
  • Take a walk or bike ride along the Ketchikan waterfront. This scenic area is home to shops, restaurants, and art galleries. You can also catch a glimpse of the salmon swimming in the Ketchikan Creek.

What is the best time to visit Ketchikan?

The best time to visit Ketchikan is during the summer months, from June to September. This is when the weather is warm and sunny, and there are plenty of activities to enjoy. However, the summer months are also the busiest time of year, so prices for hotels and flights can be higher.

If you’re looking for a more affordable and less crowded experience, consider visiting Ketchikan during the shoulder seasons, from May to June and September to October. The weather is still mild during these months, but there are fewer tourists.

How do I get to Ketchikan?

The easiest way to get to Ketchikan is by cruise ship. Ketchikan is a popular port of call for cruises to Alaska. If you’re not taking a cruise, you can fly into Ketchikan International Airport. The airport is located about 10 miles from downtown Ketchikan. You can also take a ferry to Ketchikan from Prince Rupert, British Columbia.

Where should I stay in Ketchikan?

There are a variety of hotels, motels, and bed and breakfasts in Ketchikan. The best place to stay depends on your budget and interests. If you’re looking for a central location, consider staying downtown. This is where you’ll find most of the shops, restaurants, and attractions. If you’re looking for a more scenic view, consider staying in one of the hotels on the waterfront.

What is the best way to get around Ketchikan?

The best way to get around Ketchikan is by walking or biking. The downtown area is compact and easy to walk around. If you want to explore the surrounding area, you can take a taxi or a bus. There is also a ferry that runs between Ketchikan and the nearby towns of Metlakatla and Saxman.

What is the cost of food and lodging in Ketchikan?

The cost of food and lodging in Ketchikan varies depending on the season and the type of accommodation you choose. During the summer months, prices for hotels and restaurants are higher. If you’re looking for an affordable option, consider staying in a hostel or camping.

Here are some average prices for food and lodging in Ketchikan:

  • Hotel: $100-$200 per night
  • Hostel: $20-$40 per night
  • Campground: $10-$20 per night
  • Meal at a restaurant: $15-$25
  • Coffee or tea: $5-$7
  • Beer or wine: $5-$10

What are the best restaurants in Ketchikan?

There are a variety of restaurants in Ketchikan, serving everything from seafood to Italian food. Here are a few of the best restaurants in town:

  • The Saltery Restaurant: This restaurant is known for its fresh seafood dishes, including salmon, halibut, and crab.
  • The Creekside Restaurant: This restaurant is located on the Ketchikan Creek and offers stunning views of the mountains. The menu features Pacific Northwest cuisine, including salmon, halibut, and game meats.
  • The Blue Water Cafe: This restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and creative cocktails.
  • The Red Fish Grill: This restaurant is located on the waterfront and offers a variety of seafood dishes, including salmon, halibut, and oysters.

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Ketchikan is a beautiful and charming city that offers visitors a variety of things to do. Whether you’re interested in exploring the natural beauty of the area, learning about the local culture, or simply relaxing and enjoying the scenery, Ketchikan has something to offer everyone.

Here are a few of the highlights of Ketchikan:

  • The Misty Fjords National Monument is a must-see for anyone visiting Ketchikan. This stunning natural area is home to towering mountains, lush rainforests, and numerous waterfalls.
  • The Totem Heritage Center is a fascinating museum that tells the story of the Tlingit people and their culture. The center is home to a large collection of totem poles, as well as other artifacts and exhibits.
  • The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is a great place to see some of Alaska’s native wildlife up close. The center is home to bears, wolves, moose, and other animals.
  • Ketchikan is also a great place to enjoy the outdoors. There are plenty of hiking trails, fishing spots, and kayaking opportunities in the area.

If you’re looking for a charming and unforgettable Alaskan destination, Ketchikan is the perfect place for you. With its stunning scenery, rich culture, and endless activities, Ketchikan has something to offer everyone.

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.