Ketchikan, Alaska
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Details
Ketchikan is famous for its colorful totem poles, rainy skies, steep—almost San Francisco-like—streets, and lush island setting. Around 13,500 people call this town home, and in the summer, cruise ships line the shoreline while floatplanes take off for Misty Fiords National Monument. Salmon-filled fishing boats move steadily through Tongass Narrows, giving you a real sense of Alaska’s working waterfront.
Over the years, Ketchikan has shifted from its rough-and-tumble logging and fishing roots to a community shaped more by tourism. Even so, you can still catch glimpses of its rugged frontier spirit. The arts scene here is especially strong, making it a great place to find authentic Alaska-made pieces—from traditional Native art to locally crafted souvenirs.
The town sits at the base of 3,000-foot Deer Mountain on Revillagigedo Island (locals just call it “Revilla”). Long before settlers arrived in 1885, the Tlingit people used the area as a summer fish camp. Gold discoveries around the turn of the 20th century brought new settlers, and the growth of timber and fishing industries helped the town thrive. By the 1930s, Ketchikan proudly called itself the “salmon-canning capital of the world”—and it’s still known for some of the best salmon fishing in Southeast Alaska.
For many travelers, Ketchikan is their first taste of Alaska. Despite its steep hills and staircases, it’s a very walkable town. Popular spots downtown include the shops at Spruce Mill Development and historic Creek Street. A little farther out, you’ll find the Totem Heritage Center. If you venture beyond town—often included in guided tours—two favorites are Totem Bight State Historical Park to the north and Saxman Totem Park to the south.
Port Info
Schedule
Start Time
Jun 3 6:00AM AKDT
to
End Time
Jun 3 1:15PM AKDT