What to Do in Ketchikan Alaska in One Day: A Comprehensive Guide

Planning a trip to Ketchikan, Alaska, but only have one day to spare? Don’t worry, as there are plenty of things to do and see in this picturesque city, known as the “Salmon Capital of the World.” Located in southeastern Alaska’s Inside Passage, Ketchikan offers breathtaking natural scenery, diverse wildlife, and a rich cultural heritage. In this guide, we will provide you with the best ways to spend a day in this charming Alaskan city.

1. Explore the Tongass Historical Museum

The Tongass Historical Museum is home to various exhibits showcasing the indigenous cultures and logging history of Ketchikan. It features various attractions like antique wooden boats that were donated by local residents, Native American art and artifacts, photographs, and a replica of a totem pole. The admission fee for the museum is $5 for adults, $2 for children between 6-17 years of age, and free for children under six.

2. Visit the Totem Heritage Center

Ketchikan is well known for its rich totem pole culture, which dates back thousands of years. The Totem Heritage Center is home to a vast array of totem poles and other artifacts that were rescued from old sites that were set to be demolished. At the center, visitors can learn about the history of the totem pole carvings and the legends they depict. The admission fee for adults is $5, and children under the age of 17 are free.

3. Take a Wildlife Tour

Ketchikan is home to diverse wildlife, including bald eagles, bears, whales, and deer. Wildlife tours are an excellent way to enjoy the natural beauty of the city and spot some of its wild residents. Visitors can choose between boat tours, kayak tours or walking tours, depending on their preference of adventure. The tours typically last 2-4 hours and are conducted by experienced local guides. Prices vary depending on the tour operator and duration.

4. Visit Creek Street

Creek Street is a historic site, lined with quaint shops and galleries. Located along the Ketchikan Creek, the street lies on stilts perched over the water. Visitors can stroll along the boardwalk and stop by the shops to buy souvenirs or have a meal. Creek Street is especially famous for Salmon fishing that takes place in late July to September.

5. Taste the Local Delicacies

Ketchikan is famous for salmon, so it is not surprising to find salmon in almost any variation on the city’s menus. Visitors should try the famous salmon burgers, salmon chowder, and salmon platters from local restaurants. Also, do not forget to try seafood staples like halibut, clams, cod, and shrimp that are caught fresh in the nearby waters. Bigger restaurants like Bar Harbor and Annabelle’s Keg can accommodate large crowds, and there are smaller spots like Ketchican’s Crabby Shakk that folks on a budget will appreciate.

Conclusion

A day in Ketchikan Alaska can be memorable, with the chance to explore the city’s cultural history, natural beauty, and unique wildlife. Visitors should research and plan to visit the Tongass Historical Museum and the Totem Heritage Center for a better understanding of the rich history and culture of Ketchikan. Looking for adventure, the scenic wildlife tours are perfect for exploring the city’s diverse wildlife. Visitors should remember to taste the local cuisine, among which salmon stands out as the highlight of the city’s culinary scene. With proper planning, one day in Ketchikan is an adventure that cannot be missed.

An Insider’s Guide to Ketchikan, Alaska

Ketchikan, Alaska, is one of the most picturesque towns you’ll ever visit. It is a unique place with an exciting and captivating Native American and modern culture mix. What’s better than making the most of your one-day stay in this beautiful town? Here’s a comprehensive guide wherein you can experience Ketchikan, Alaska, like a local and discover the hidden gems all around this town.

Local Attractions

The obvious tourist spots in Ketchikan are well-known, such as the Totem Heritage Center or Misty Fjords National Monument. However, as a local, I have a few lesser-known gems in mind that offer a more fulfilling experience. Start your day with a walk around Dolly’s House Museum and learn about the city’s history and WW II community. After that, visit the Potlatch Totem Park, which is about ten minutes away. It’s a low-traffic, tranquil and intimate environment that showcases totems, carvings, and other significant Native American objects. If you want to end your trip on a green and scenic note, The Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary trails offer a 3-hour hiking tour through Ketchikan’s enchanting scenery to see the resident bald eagles and some of the oldest trees in town, all taken care of by a local conservation company.

Dining Spots

Ketchikan has a vibrant food culture that is a fusion of native American, Asian, and seafood cuisine. Every good day in Ketchikan begins with breakfast at The Point, where you can find delectable waffles and an unmatched view of the harbor. Lunchtime calls for some mouth-watering fish tacos at Bar Harbor Restaurant. Do not miss out on the Dungeness Crab when in season. In the evening, pay a visit to The Alaska Fish House, which has a reputation for fresh, locally caught seafood.

Cultural Experiences

If you’re in Ketchikan during February and March, you would like to attend the Ketchikan Wearable Art Show and see traditional Haida art blended with contemporary influences. The local art scene and museums must be explored too – Hatchery Creek Pottery and Scanlon Gallery offer all kinds of artwork. Ketchikan is well known for its Native Alaskan culture, and the best way to experience it is by visiting the Saxman Totem Park and its exhibits just five-five-minute drive from downtown.

Local History

Ketchikan has a rich aquatic heritage, and it was an essential Sulphur producing spot in the 1900s. Pacific Alaska Lumber Mill and Ketchikan Pulp Mill, in its prime, used to be one of Southeast Alaska’s significant employers. Check out the Tongass Historical Museum during your visit, and take a look at exhibits that showcase the stories of the city’s dangerous history and the pioneers who made Ketchikan what it is today.

Off-The-Beaten-Path

Take a small boat to the Auk Nu village, where a local clan resides and is open to visitors only in summer. Konemniak Hunting Camp is an hour-long boat ride to the northwest of the island. It was used primarily for seal and halibut hunting and captures the area’s essence that is unknown to many.

Visiting Ketchikan, Alaska, in one day seems impossible, but it is truly worth it. Hop on a flight and experience the place for yourself. From its beautiful hidden gems to its rich, diverse culture, Ketchikan is a place that will remain close to your heart long after you’ve left.