Top things to do in Ketchikan during an Alaska Cruise
Quick Links for Your Ketchikan Adventure:
🏨Find Hotels and Vacation Rentals
đź“ŤBook Exciting Tours & Activities
The Ultimate Guide to Ketchikan: Top Things to Do on Your Alaska Cruise
Welcome to Ketchikan, Alaska – often heralded as the “Salmon Capital of the World” and a jewel among Alaska cruise ports. This charming city offers an abundance of attractions and activities, making it an essential stop for any Alaska cruise itinerary. What makes Ketchikan particularly appealing for cruisers is its remarkable walkability and the close proximity of its main attractions to the cruise ship dock. From the moment you step off your ship, you’ll find yourself immersed in the heart of the city, ready to explore its unique history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty.
Many visitors might worry about having enough time to experience Ketchikan’s highlights during a brief port stop. However, Ketchikan is designed for efficient exploration. Its compact downtown area means most popular tourist destinations are just a few blocks away, making it incredibly easy to navigate on foot and maximize your limited time. Our own experience proved that even with just a few hours, you can create unforgettable memories and get a true taste of what this Alaskan city has to offer.
Explore Historic Creek Street: Ketchikan’s Iconic Waterfront
No visit to Ketchikan is complete without a stroll along historic Creek Street, often referred to as “The Place Where Salmon Spawn and Prostitution Once Spawned.” This iconic boardwalk, built entirely on stilts over Ketchikan Creek, is a vivid testament to the city’s colorful past as a former red-light district. Today, the beautifully preserved buildings house charming art galleries, unique souvenir shops, and local eateries, offering a delightful blend of history and modern charm.
The architectural marvel of these houses, perched precariously over the flowing creek, provides a picturesque backdrop for photography. We discovered that arriving early in the morning was a fantastic advantage; with fewer crowds, we had the entire street to ourselves, allowing for unobstructed photos and a peaceful exploration of this historic landmark. One notable stop is Dolly’s House Museum, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of a madam from Ketchikan’s early days. Walking its length, you’ll feel transported back in time, imagining the bustling activity that once defined this unique street.
At the far end of Creek Street, you’ll find a charming funicular (often referred to as a vernacular in the local dialect) that ascends to the Westmark Cape Fox Lodge. An early morning ride up is often free, offering panoramic views of the creek, downtown, and the cruise ships in port. Even if you pay a small fee later in the day, the experience is worthwhile. Just outside the hotel’s entrance, you’ll be greeted by an impressive display of beautifully carved totem poles, offering another layer of cultural insight into the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian indigenous communities that have long called this region home. It’s a perfect spot for photos and a moment of quiet reflection before heading back down into the bustling streets.
Experience the Thrill of the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show
For an exhilarating and highly entertaining experience, we wholeheartedly recommend the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show. This live, outdoor theatrical event is a definite highlight for many visitors to Ketchikan, including us. It’s a blend of athleticism, skill, and humor, featuring world-champion lumberjacks competing in various logging events such as axe throwing, log rolling, speed climbing, and high-powered chainsaw competitions. While it might be a bit “cheesy” at times, its infectious energy and audience interaction make it incredibly fun for all ages.
From the moment the show begins, the friendly rivalry between two teams of lumberjacks captivates the audience. We found ourselves laughing, cheering, and getting completely caught up in the excitement as we rooted for our chosen team. The sheer precision of the axe throws and the incredible speed of the chainsaw artists are genuinely mesmerizing. John was particularly enthralled by the roar of the chainsaws and the incredible feats of strength demonstrated, while I was amazed by their agility on floating logs.
Conveniently located within easy walking distance from the cruise ship terminal, the Lumberjack Show is an ideal shore excursion, lasting about an hour and a half. It provides a perfect balance of entertainment and cultural insight into Alaska’s rich logging heritage. After the show, you even have the opportunity to take a free photo with the lumberjacks, creating a memorable keepsake from your visit. This show is a must-do for families, couples, and solo travelers alike, promising an hour of pure, unadulterated Alaskan fun.
Immerse Yourself in Culture at Totem Bight State Historical Park
While we decided to save Totem Bight State Historical Park for a future visit, it remains one of Ketchikan’s most significant cultural attractions and comes highly recommended. Located about 10 miles north of downtown Ketchikan, this park is a remarkable outdoor museum showcasing a stunning collection of restored and re-carved totem poles and a recreated traditional Native Alaskan clan house. These magnificent carvings tell stories, commemorate historical events, and symbolize the rich artistic and cultural heritage of the Tlingit and Haida people.
To reach Totem Bight, you’ll likely need to take a taxi or shuttle from the cruise port, as it’s a bit too far for a comfortable walk. However, the journey is well worth it. Exploring the park allows you to wander through a serene coastal rainforest, with the majestic totem poles rising impressively amidst the trees and overlooking the Tongass Narrows. Each pole has a unique story, and interpretive signs provide valuable context, deepening your understanding of indigenous art and traditions. It’s a peaceful and profoundly educational experience, offering a powerful connection to Alaska’s native roots.
Discover the Wilderness: Misty Fjords National Monument by Floatplane
For those seeking an unparalleled wilderness experience, a floatplane excursion to Misty Fjords National Monument is an absolute must. While not a “true” National Monument in the sense of being administered by the National Park Service (as you won’t find it on their official website), Misty Fjords is a federally protected wilderness area of immense natural beauty, managed by the U.S. Forest Service. This majestic landscape of towering fjords, granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and dense temperate rainforests is simply breathtaking.
Floatplane tours depart directly from Ketchikan, offering an incredible aerial perspective of this geological wonderland. As you soar above, you’ll witness a dramatic tapestry of nature, with narrow waterways carving through ancient rock, often shrouded in mist that gives the monument its evocative name. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife such as bald eagles, seals, and even bears on the shorelines. Some tours include a landing on one of the serene lakes or inlets, allowing you to step out and truly immerse yourself in the profound silence and grandeur of this untouched wilderness. It’s an investment, but the unforgettable views and sense of remote adventure make it a bucket-list experience.
Wildlife Encounters: Beyond Eagles
Ketchikan and its surrounding areas are a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Beyond the ubiquitous bald eagles, which are frequently spotted soaring overhead or perched on trees along the waterfront, the region boasts an incredible diversity of animal life. More than 250 species of birds have been identified around Ketchikan, making it a prime destination for birdwatchers. Look out for various seabirds, ducks, and migratory species throughout the year.
During the salmon spawning season (typically late summer), Ketchikan Creek itself becomes a vibrant natural spectacle. You can witness thousands of salmon fighting their way upstream, a truly incredible display of nature’s cycle. This event also attracts other wildlife, including black bears, which may be seen fishing along the creek banks, and various marine mammals such as seals and porpoises in the surrounding waters. Many local tours offer guided wildlife viewing opportunities, ensuring you have the best chance to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitats.
Essential Ketchikan Travel Tips for Cruise Visitors
To help you make the most of your port day in Ketchikan, here are some practical tips gleaned from our own experiences and local insights:
Getting Around Ketchikan: A Walker’s Paradise
Ketchikan is incredibly easy to navigate on foot. Your cruise ship will typically dock right in the heart of downtown, meaning you can disembark and immediately begin exploring the main attractions without needing taxis or shuttles. Creek Street, the Lumberjack Show, and numerous shops and restaurants are all within a short, comfortable walk from the port. Embrace the opportunity to wander and discover the city’s charm at your own pace.
Weather Wise: What to Pack for Ketchikan
Ketchikan is known for its abundant rainfall, earning it the nickname “Rainy City.” Therefore, preparing for wet weather is crucial, regardless of the season. Layers are your best friend, as the weather can shift rapidly from sunny to cool and rainy in a matter of moments. A waterproof jacket or parka, along with comfortable, waterproof footwear, is highly recommended to ensure you stay dry and comfortable while exploring. Don’t let a little rain deter you; it often adds to the mystical ambiance of the Alaskan rainforest.
Making the Most of Your Port Time
To avoid crowds and capture stunning photos, especially on Creek Street, consider disembarking your ship as early as possible. We found that the town was delightfully quiet in the early morning, offering a serene experience before the stores opened and the streets filled with fellow cruisers. Even with limited time, prioritizing your top two or three attractions will ensure a fulfilling visit. You can always plan for a return trip to explore more!
Connectivity: Cell Service in Ketchikan
For most major carriers (like T-Mobile, as in our experience), you should have reliable cell phone service within the main downtown area of Ketchikan. This allows you to stay connected, check maps, or share your experiences in real-time. However, if you venture further outside of town, particularly into more remote areas or wilderness excursions, cell service can become spotty or unavailable, so plan accordingly if you rely on connectivity.
Visitor Information and Resources
The Ketchikan Visitor Information Center is conveniently located right near the port terminal, next to Berth 2. This is an excellent first stop for any visitor. Here, you can pick up free walking tour maps, browse a wide array of brochures for local attractions, and even book tours directly. The friendly staff are a great resource for local recommendations and up-to-date information.
Ketchikan Time Zone and Daylight Hours
Ketchikan operates on the Alaska Time Zone (AKDT), which is one hour earlier than the Pacific Time Zone. Alaska does observe Daylight Saving Time. During the summer months, daylight hours are exceptionally long, offering ample time for exploration. For instance, around the summer solstice (June 21st), Ketchikan experiences over 17 hours of daylight, making it possible to enjoy activities well into the evening. Conversely, winter days are very short.
Fishing Licenses in Alaska
If you plan on fishing in Alaskan waters, including those around Ketchikan, a fishing license is required for anyone over 16 years old. You can obtain detailed information on licenses, permits, and regulations from the Alaska Department of Fish and Game website. Licenses can often be purchased online or by mail in advance of your trip, ensuring you’re ready to cast a line upon arrival.
Our Ketchikan Cruise Experience: A Personal Perspective
Our morning in Ketchikan aboard the Golden Princess was truly memorable. With only a half-day in port, John and I were among the first off the ship, eager to make the most of every moment. We were pleasantly surprised to find that the ship docked directly in the heart of the city; it was literally a few steps from the gangway to the bustling streets of downtown Ketchikan. This immediate immersion into the local environment allowed us to wander through town before the shops fully opened and the crowds descended.
Ketchikan is incredibly well-equipped for visitors, with fantastic street signs and maps strategically placed throughout the city to help you navigate. We confidently explored on foot, never feeling the need for a car or taxi during our time. The only exception we considered was a trip to Totem Bight State Historical Park, located outside of town, which we ultimately decided to save for our next Alaska cruise adventure – a testament to how much we enjoyed Ketchikan and plan to return!
Our early start meant we were able to walk along Creek Street in blissful solitude. It was a truly special experience, capturing photos of the historic houses on stilts without a single person in sight. The vibrant colors and unique architecture truly came alive in the quiet morning light.
Creek Street, while iconic, was not as sprawling as I had initially imagined. We spent less than an hour leisurely walking its length, admiring the views and capturing its essence through our lenses. With the shops still closed, we fully embraced the historical ambiance and natural beauty of the area.
At the very end of Creek Street, we found the unique funicular that ascends to a hotel atop the hill. Being there so early, we enjoyed a free ride up, taking in the elevated perspective of the town. Outside the hotel, a beautiful collection of totem poles offered another cultural highlight. We spent some time admiring their intricate carvings before finding a cozy coffee shop inside the hotel for a brief respite and to soak in the scenery.
Our next stop was the highly anticipated Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, which exceeded all expectations and became the absolute highlight of our port day. After soaking in the entertainment and picking up a few free trinkets from our Alaska shopping book, we comfortably made our way back to the Golden Princess, well before our departure time, feeling completely satisfied with our Ketchikan adventure.
We hope this comprehensive guide inspires your visit to Ketchikan and helps you plan an incredible day in this captivating Alaskan port. Whether you’re drawn to its rich history, unique culture, thrilling entertainment, or stunning wilderness, Ketchikan truly offers something for every cruise traveler.
Plan Your Next Alaska Cruise Adventure with These Resources:
- Explore All Alaska Cruise Ports
- Driving to the Yukon Territory from Skagway
- Essential Packing Guide for an Alaska Cruise
- Top 9 Tips for an Alaska Cruise
- Check out all of our Alaska Cruise Guides