Ketchikan is more than just a gateway; it's a destination rich in Haida, Tlingit, and Tsimshian history, combined with a rugged industrial heritage. Whether you have 4 hours or a full day, here is how to spend your time.
The historical epicenter of Ketchikan. Walk the pilings, visit the boutique shops, and look for salmon in the creek below (July-September). Don't miss the "Married Man's Trail" for a quiet forest path exit.
Walking Guide →A 2-mile trip from downtown. Features one of the largest collections of standing totem poles and an active carving center where you can see artists at work.
Located within walking distance of downtown. Houses original 19th-century totem poles retrieved from abandoned village sites. Pure, un-restored history.
Located right next to the cruise docks. It's a fun, raucous celebration of logging heritage. Perfect for families and excellent for rainy days.
Is it Worth It? →Accessed by boat or floatplane. Dramatic granite cliffs, 1,000-foot waterfalls, and absolute silence. This is the "Grand Canyon of the North."
View Misty Fjords Guide →A private reserve at Herring Cove. One of the best places to see wild black bears (August) and walk through towering Sitka Spruce forests.
You don't need a $200 excursion to enjoy Ketchikan. Visiting the Salmon Ladder, walking Creek Street, and hiking the Rainbird Trail are all 100% free.
| Attraction | Time Needed | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Creek Street | 1 Hour | Free | Quick Walk, Shopping |
| Lumberjack Show | 1.5 Hours | $$ | Families, Rainy Days |
| Totem Bight | 2-3 Hours | $ | Culture, Nature |
| Misty Fjords | 3-4 Hours | $$$$ | Scenery, Photography |