How to Experience the Best of Sitka: Scenic Tour Premium Alaska Raptor Center Fortress of the Bears Totems

If you’re looking for a personalized, small-group excursion to Siberian Sitka’s landmark attractions, this informative guide will help you plan your visit. The Sitka Scenic Tour Premium offers a guided tour that takes you through different places in Sitka, including Fortress of the Bear, Alaska Raptor Center, and the Sitka National Historic Park, giving you a chance to experience a diverse array of natural beauty and cultural richness. Here’s what you can expect from this incredible Sitka tour.

Overview of the Tour

The Sitka Scenic Tour Premium is a day-long excursion that allows you to visit Silver Bay, Fortress of the Bear, the Raptor Center, Sitka National Historic Park, and much more while staying in a small group of up to 10 people. Unlike the impersonal bus tour, this tour offers a personalized experience, which includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, food and drinks, and all admission tickets.

What to Expect on the Tour

Silver Bay

Silver Bay offers a stunning panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean, providing you with an opportunity to capture the scenic beauty of Sitka in your memory. The tour will take 15 minutes at Silver Bay.

Fortress of the Bear

Fortress of the Bear is an animal rescue center for brown bears. The facility offers a natural environment for bears, providing them with care and rehabilitation. You’ll get to see the bears in their different activity areas, observing them as they play, explore, or rest. The tour will take around 30 minutes at Fortress of the Bear.

Alaska Raptor Center

Alaska Raptor Center is a non-profit organization that rescues and rehabilitates birds of prey. You’ll get to see eagles, owls, falcons, and other captivating birds of prey climbing, flying, and interacting with handlers. You’ll also learn about their different species, their habitat, food habits, and how they’re treated at the center. The tour will take around 30 minutes at the Alaska Raptor Center.

Sitka National Historic Park

Also known as Totem Park, Sitka National Historic Park is a treasure of history in Sitka. The park offers a glimpse into the Tlingit and Haida cultures through the many totem poles, the visitor center’s theater, the forest trails, and the Raven’s nest. You’ll learn about the Tlingit and Haida clans’ history, culture, art, and craftsmanship in the park. The tour will take around one hour at Sitka National Historic Park.

What’s Included in the Tour

The tour features many inclusions that make it worth the price. Here’s what you’ll get when you book the Sitka Scenic Tour Premium:

• Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
• All admission fees are included.
• Food and drinks
• A comprehensive guided tour of four different attractions with free time to explore each site.
• A personalized small-group experience with up to ten visitors only.
• A detailed knowledge of Sitka and its attractions with insiders information provided by your guide

Meeting and Pickup Point

The tour starts and ends at the same point:

Meeting Point: 330 Harbor Dr, Sitka AK 99835 USA

End Point: 330 Harbor Dr, Sitka AK 99835 USA

Pricing and Booking

The Sitka Scenic Tour Premium is quite affordable compared to the fantastic experiences it offers. You can book the tour on the Viator website for $165 per person. Once you complete your booking, you’ll receive a confirmation email with all the essential details and a reminder on what to bring. Book the tour here and get ready to experience the best of Sitka with your personal guide.

Book Your Tour Now

The Sitka Scenic Tour Premium offers a fantastic opportunity to explore Sitka’s natural and cultural beauty in a personalized, small-group tour. With experienced guides, a comfortable ride, delicious food and drinks, and all admission fees are included, you won’t have to worry about anything except capturing the stunning views, taking the best pictures and get ready to have an unforgettable experience. Book your tour now and enjoy every bit of its entertaining moments.

Sitka: A Detailed FAQ

Sitka is a beautiful city in Alaska, located on the west coast of Baranof Island. It is a popular destination for tourists looking for outdoor activities, wildlife spotting, and a taste of the local culture. In this FAQ, we have gathered some common questions about Sitka and provided informative answers to them.

1. How do I get to Sitka?

Sitka is accessible by air or sea. Most visitors fly to Sitka Rocky Gutierrez Airport, which has direct flights from several major cities in Alaska, including Anchorage and Juneau. Alternatively, Sitka can also be reached by ferry from several cities in Southeast Alaska, including Juneau, Ketchikan, and Petersburg.

2. What are the best things to do in Sitka?

Sitka has a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Some of the best things to do in Sitka include: – Wildlife spotting: Sitka is home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, sea otters, and humpback whales. Visitors can take wildlife watching tours by boat or plane to see these animals up close. – Cultural tours: Sitka has a rich history and culture, with a strong Native Tlingit influence. Visitors can take cultural tours to learn about the history and traditions of the Tlingit people. – Outdoor activities: Sitka has a beautiful natural setting, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and fishing. – Sitka National Historical Park: This park is home to several totem poles, as well as a visitor center with exhibits about the Tlingit people and the history of the area.

3. When is the best time to visit Sitka?

The best time to visit Sitka depends on what activities you are interested in. Summer (June-August) is the busiest time of year and has the best weather for outdoor activities. However, it is also the most expensive time to visit and can be crowded. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) are less crowded and have more affordable prices, but the weather can be unpredictable. Winter (November-March) is the least crowded time to visit and is a good time for indoor activities like museums, but the weather is often cold and wet.

4. What is the weather like in Sitka?

Sitka has a mild, wet climate, with cool temperatures year-round. The average temperature in the summer is around 55-60 degrees Fahrenheit, while the average temperature in the winter is around 35-40 degrees Fahrenheit. Rain is common in Sitka, with the wettest months being October through March.

5. What are some good restaurants in Sitka?

Sitka has several great restaurants serving fresh seafood and local cuisine. Some popular options include: – Ludvig’s Bistro: This restaurant serves a variety of seafood dishes, as well as steak and pasta. – Alaska Pure Seafood Company: This restaurant serves a variety of seafood dishes made with locally caught fish. – Harry Race Pharmacy & Photo: This restaurant is a Sitka institution and has been serving locals and visitors for over 100 years. It serves classic American diner fare, as well as seafood dishes.

6. What are some good accommodations in Sitka?

Sitka has several options for accommodations, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals. Some popular options include: – Westmark Sitka: This hotel is located in the heart of downtown Sitka and offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant. – Sitka Hotel: This hotel is located across from Crescent Harbor and offers basic rooms at an affordable price. – Vacation rentals: Sitka has several vacation rentals available, ranging from apartments to cabins. These can be a good option for families or groups.

7. What are some popular souvenirs to buy in Sitka?

Sitka has several options for souvenirs, including: – Tlingit artwork: Sitka is home to many talented Native Tlingit artists, who create beautiful works of art, including totem poles, masks, and carvings. – Salmon: Sitka is known for its fresh, wild-caught salmon. Visitors can buy fresh or smoked salmon to take home with them. – Russian crafts: Sitka has a strong Russian influence, and visitors can buy traditional Russian crafts like Matryoshka dolls and lacquer boxes.

8. Is Sitka a good destination for families?

Yes, Sitka can be a great destination for families. There are plenty of outdoor activities for kids to enjoy, as well as cultural and educational opportunities. Families can also enjoy wildlife watching tours and visit the Sitka Sound Science Center, which has exhibits about the local marine life.

9. What is the best way to get around Sitka?

Sitka is a small town and can be easily explored on foot. However, visitors who want to explore the surrounding area can rent a car, take a taxi, or book a tour.

10. What are some important things to know before visiting Sitka?

Before visiting Sitka, it is important to: – Pack for the weather: Sitka can be rainy and cool, so visitors should bring rain gear and warm layers. – Respect the local culture: Sitka has a strong Native Tlingit influence, and visitors should be respectful of the local culture and traditions. – Plan ahead: Sitka can be a popular destination, especially in the summer, so visitors should book accommodations and tours in advance.

Book Your Tour Now

Sitka is a beautiful and unique destination, offering visitors the chance to explore a rich history and culture, enjoy amazing wildlife sightings and outdoor activities, and sample delicious fresh seafood. With this FAQ, we hope we have provided helpful information for anyone planning a trip to Sitka.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Sitka

Sitka is a picturesque coastal town located in southeast Alaska. The town is surrounded by the Tongass National Forest and the Gulf of Alaska, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. Apart from its natural beauty, Sitka also has a rich cultural history and is home to several landmarks and museums. If you are planning a trip to Sitka, here is a guide on how to make the most of your time as a tourist.

1. Visit Sitka National Historical Park

Sitka National Historical Park is home to the Tlingit Indian Tribe, and it’s their ancestral land. The park is open year-round, and it features several totems, walking trails, and a visitor center. The visitor center contains exhibits on the Tlingit way of life, their traditional art, and how they made a living off the sea. The park is an ideal destination for visitors who are looking to learn about the history and culture of the Tlingit.

2. Explore the Alaska Raptor Center

The Alaska Raptor Center is a rehabilitation center for birds of prey. Visitors to the center can see bald eagles up close and learn about their habitats, diet, and behavior. The center also features several other bird species, including the peregrine falcon, the great horned owl, and the red-tailed hawk. Visitors looking to get a deeper understanding of the bird world will find the Alaska Raptor Center to be a must-visit.

3. Take a hike in Sitka’s Forests

Sitka is surrounded by lush forests that are home to a wide array of flora and fauna. Visitors to the town can take hikes through the Tongass National Forest, where they can see Sitka spruce, Western hemlocks, and other trees unique to the area. The forest is also home to several animal species, including Sitka black-tailed deer, minks, and red squirrels. Hiking trails are well marked, and visitors are advised to carry enough water and snacks.

4. Explore Sitka’s History at the Russian Bishop’s House and St. Michael’s Cathedral

Sitka was once a Russian colony, and its history is evident in the town’s architecture and monuments. Visitors to the town can visit the Russian Bishop’s House, which was built in the 19th century and is a National Historic Landmark. The house features exhibits on the town’s history during the Russian occupation. Visitors can also visit St. Michael’s Cathedral, which was also built during the Russian era and is still in use today. The cathedral features onion domes and Russian Orthodox iconography.

5. Go Fishing in Sitka’s Waters

Sitka is a prime destination for fishing enthusiasts. The town is surrounded by the Gulf of Alaska and several lakes that are home to a wide array of fish species, including salmon, halibut, and trout. Visitors can charter boats and experienced fishing guides to help them explore the town’s waters. Fishing in Sitka is easy and often successful, making it a great activity for visitors looking to relax and enjoy nature.

6. Enjoy Local Cuisines

Sitka is home to several restaurants that specialize in local cuisine. Visitors can sample fresh seafood, including salmon, halibut, and king crab. The town also features several bakeries and cafes that offer local pastries and coffee. Some of the popular local dishes include smoked salmon, salmon chowder, and crab cakes. Visitors can explore the town’s culinary scene by visiting local markets and restaurants.

7. Attend a Cultural Event

Sitka is home to several cultural events throughout the year. The town hosts the Sitka Summer Music Festival, an annual event that runs from June to August and features live music performances by local and international artists. The town also hosts the Sitka WhaleFest, an annual festival that celebrates the town’s connection to the sea and the marine ecosystem. Visitors to the town are advised to check the event calendar to find out about upcoming cultural events.

Summary

Sitka is a town that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Visitors to the town will find several landmarks, museums, and outdoor activities to enjoy. Some of the must-visit places in Sitka include the Sitka National Historical Park, the Alaska Raptor Center, and the Russian Bishop’s House. The town is also an ideal destination for fishing enthusiasts and food lovers. Visitors to the town are advised to plan their itinerary in advance and to check the event calendar for any upcoming cultural events.