Ketchikan, Alaska – An ideal vacation destination

Ketchikan, Alaska has long been one of the most popular vacation spots in the US. This remote port town, located on the southern tip of the Alaskan mainland, is known for its breathtaking scenery, abundant wildlife, and vibrant arts and culture. But what other attractions does Ketchikan have to offer?

Ketchikan is renowned for its array of outdoor activities. Visitors can go sightseeing by boat to see whales, seals, and other marine life, go fishing for wild salmon, hike or bird watch in Tongass National Forest, or windsurf or kayak in lakes and rivers. Adventurous travelers can also sea kayak or raft the wild rushing waters of the Unuk River.

The small coastal town of Ketchikan is profoundly steeped in Native American culture. Visitors come to Ketchikan to experience its rich cultural heritage, take part in Tlingit Indian totem pole carving and basket weaving workshops, and visit historic totem poles and house posts. The Totem Heritage Centre displays more than one hundred original and reconstructed house posts, carved poles, and other artifacts documenting the Tlingit culture.

Ketchikan has earned the title of “The Salmon Capital of the World’ due to its abundance of wild salmon runs and commercial salmon fisheries. Sport-fishing is popular in Ketchikan and visitors can charter a fishing trip with a tour guide or rent a fishing boat for a day or even week-long excursion.

Those looking for variety in the nightlife can visit Creek Street, a strip of restaurants, bars and souvenir shops that were once part of Ketchikan’s red-light district. Visitors can explore this quaint area along the creek by taking one of the local guided walking tours.

No trip to Ketchikan would be complete without sampling some of the delicious seafood offerings. Savory dishes include King salmon harry (poached salmon served with onion sauce), Alaskan oyster shooters (oysters mixed with vodka or tequila), and Razor clam chowder. While you’re there, do not forget to savor the excellent Kachemak Bay shrimp – briny, succulent shrimp harvested straight from the bay!

Overall, Ketchikan has it all – magnificent scenery, rich cultural heritage and fantastic outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for fun-filled family vacations, memorable fishing trips or romantic getaways, you’ll find it all in Ketchikan. To learn more about this lovely Alaskan town, explore visit-ketchikan.com which offers an extensive collection of information on everything Ketchikan has to offer.

An Insider’s Guide to Ketchikan, Alaska – The Ideal Vacation Destination

Nestled in the southeastern part of Alaska, Ketchikan is a small city surrounded by forests and mountains that boast of stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The city is well-known for its abundant outdoor activities, friendly locals, and mouth-watering seafood. In this insider’s guide, we will explore some of the must-see attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that will make your visit to Ketchikan unforgettable.

Attractions

When it comes to attractions, Ketchikan offers plenty of options for every type of traveler. Here are some of the top attractions that you must explore while visiting Ketchikan:

– Misty Fjords National Monument: Known as “The Yosemite of the North,” Misty Fjords National Monument is one of the most incredible natural wonders in Alaska. You can either take a tour by boat or plane to witness this majestic beauty.

– Totem Heritage Center: Ketchikan is well-known for its impressive Native American totem poles, and the Totem Heritage Center is the best place to see them. You will find a vast collection of totem poles, masks, and other artifacts that showcase the rich culture and history of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian tribes.

– Creek Street: Famous for its colorful wooden buildings and salmon fishing, Creek Street is a must-visit attraction in Ketchikan. Stroll along the boardwalk while enjoying the scenic view of the creek and the historic buildings that once housed bordellos and illegal drinking establishments.

Dining

Ketchikan’s dining scene is lengthy, offering a mix of seafood, pub fare, coffee shops, and more. Here are a few dining spots that will cater to your taste buds:

– The Alaska Fish House: A beloved restaurant among locals and visitors alike, The Alaska Fish House serves fresh, locally caught seafood. Try their Dungeness crab, fish tacos, or fish and chips.

– Bar Harbor Restaurant: If you are in the mood for steak, Bar Harbor Restaurant should be on the top of your list. The restaurant offers a delectable array of American cuisine with a local twist that you won’t find anywhere else.

– Annabelle’s Famous Keg & Chowder House: Annabelle’s is an upscale seafood restaurant that offers some of the best clam chowder in town. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and offers a wide variety of seafood.

Cultural Experiences

Ketchikan offers an opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian tribes. Here are a few experiences that you should not miss:

– Totem Bight State Historical Park: Located just a few miles north of Ketchikan, Totem Bight State Historical Park is one of the most beautiful parks in Alaska. The park is home to a collection of totem poles, preserved wooden structures, and hiking trails.

– Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show: The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show is a live performance that showcases logging sports such as axe throwing, log rolling, and speed climbing. The show is entertaining, educational, and definitely worth watching.

– The Southeast Alaska Discovery Center: The Southeast Alaska Discovery Center is a museum that educates visitors about the natural and cultural history of Alaska’s rainforest region. You will find interactive exhibits, films, and educational programs that offer an immersive experience to visitors.

Local History

Ketchikan has a long and interesting history, and there are plenty of places where you can learn more about it. Here are a few historical places to visit:

– Ketchikan Museums: Ketchikan has several small museums that offer a glimpse into its history, including the Tongass Historical Museum, Dolly’s House Museum, and the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center.

– Saxman Native Village and Totem Pole Park: The Saxman Native Village and Totem Pole Park is a fascinating place that showcases the Tlingit native culture. Visitors can watch skilled carvers at work and learn about the process of making totem poles.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’ve explored all the primary attractions in Ketchikan, here are a few off-the-beaten-path suggestions that you may want to consider:

– Kayaking at the Ward Lake: Located just a few miles north of Ketchikan, the Ward Lake is a serene place to kayak, hike, or picnic. The lake is surrounded by majestic mountains, wildlife, and pristine forests.

– El Capitan Cave Expedition: If you are looking for adventure, sign up for the El Capitan Cave Expedition, an unforgettable experience that involves hiking, climbing, and crawling your way through the largest accessible cave system in Alaska.

– Double Falls Trail Hike: If you are a hiking enthusiast, consider taking the Double Falls Trail Hike, which offers stunning views of the lush rainforest, wildlife, and breathtaking waterfalls.

In conclusion, Ketchikan, Alaska is the ideal vacation destination for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and culture lovers. With its magnificent natural beauty, delicious seafood, rich cultural heritage, and abundant outdoor activities, Ketchikan will offer you an unforgettable experience that you will cherish for life.