Ketchikan is known as Alaska’s “First City” (as it is the first major city you come to on entering the state) and “Salmon Capital of the World.” With Native heritage, colorful waterfronts, and plentiful wildlife, it’s a favourite port for cruise passengers.
The main port area has four docks, a Welcome Center with tour information, restrooms, and local advice, plus transportation in the form of buses, taxis and shuttles, although the main town area is walkable from the port.
There are a number of Shopping & Dining opportunities:
Shops - selling locally made art, jewellery, souvenirs, smoked salmon and other local delicacies!
Dining Highlights - Annabelle’s Famous Keg & Chowder House – serving local seafood, Alaska Fish House – serving halibut, salmon, and chowder, and Sweet Mermaids – boutique café with coffee and gifts
TOP TIP - Ketchikan is one of the rainiest cities so bring your wet weather gear!
Our Top Things to Do
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Creek Street Boardwalk
Creek Street is a historic red-light district built over the water, which is now home to lots of unique shops, museums, eateries and Dolly’s House tour. You can’t go to Ketchikan without taking a walk through this gorgeous street on stilts!
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Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show
Just a stones throw from the cruise port. this family-friendly, high-energy show is a must when in Ketchikan. All of our children said this was a highlight of the trip, they loved it!
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Salmon Run
Every summer, millions of wild Pacific salmon return from the ocean to the streams and rivers surrounding Ketchikan to spawn. The runs typically begin in late June and continue through until September. You can witness huge schools of salmon pushing upriver, an unforgettable sight that also draws an abundance of eagles, seals, bears, and other wildlife.
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Salmon Fishing
Ketchikan is one of Alaska’s top destinations for first-time anglers and seasoned fishers. Charter boats leave daily throughout the summer, guiding guests to sheltered coastal waters where salmon feed heavily before entering their spawning streams.
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Totem Pole Parks
Ketchikan is one of the best places in the world to see authentic totem poles, and its parks offer an accessible, engaging window into the art, heritage, and stories of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples. Visit Totem Bight State Historical Park, Saxman Native Village & Totem Heritage Center or Potlatch Park.
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Misty Fjords Flightseeing
Take a seaplane or helicopter tour over scenic fjords, cliffs, and lakes. From the air, you may see mountain goats, bears near the shoreline, whales and eagles. Some tours experience a water landing and a walking tour.