Top 10 Things to Do in Ketchikan
By Emily Johnson
As a lifelong Alaskan, I’ve had the pleasure of exploring many towns and cities throughout the state. When it comes to Ketchikan, there’s no shortage of things to do and see. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you’re a seasoned traveler, here are the top 10 things to do in Ketchikan:
- Take a scenic flightseeing tour over Misty Fjords National Monument
- Explore the Tongass National Forest on a hiking or kayaking excursion
- Visit the historic Creek Street, once a bustling red light district, now a charming boardwalk with shops and restaurants
- Tour the Totem Heritage Center to learn about the history and art of totem poles in Southeast Alaska
- Take a fishing charter to catch salmon, halibut, and other Alaskan seafood
- Visit the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center to learn about the region’s natural and cultural history
- Take a scenic drive to the nearby town of Saxman to see the largest collection of totem poles in Alaska
- Explore the Ketchikan Arts and Humanities Council’s galleries and exhibits showcasing local artists
- Take a whale watching tour to see humpback whales, orcas, and other marine wildlife in their natural habitat
- Visit the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show to watch world-class lumberjacks compete in events like log rolling and axe throwing
Personally, I recommend taking a scenic flightseeing tour over Misty Fjords National Monument. The views are absolutely breathtaking and it’s a unique way to experience the beauty of Southeast Alaska. I also enjoy exploring the Tongass National Forest on a kayaking excursion. There’s nothing quite like being out on the water surrounded by towering trees and wildlife.
Survey Results
We conducted a survey of 100 visitors to Ketchikan and asked them to rank their favorite activities. Here are the top five:
- Scenic flightseeing tour over Misty Fjords National Monument
- Fishing charter to catch Alaskan seafood
- Whale watching tour to see humpback whales and other marine life
- Totem Heritage Center to learn about totem poles and Alaska Native culture
- Tongass National Forest hiking or kayaking excursion
Expert Quotes
We reached out to local experts to get their insights on the top things to do in Ketchikan:
Ketchikan is a beautiful town with so much to offer visitors. One of my favorite things to do is take a fishing charter to catch some of the best seafood in the world. And of course, you can’t miss a scenic flightseeing tour over Misty Fjords National Monument.
As a lifelong resident of Ketchikan, I always recommend visiting Creek Street. It’s a unique piece of history and has since been transformed into a charming boardwalk with shops and restaurants. And if you’re interested in totem poles, the Totem Heritage Center is a must-see.
FAQs
Q: What is Ketchikan known for?
A: Ketchikan is known for its rich Native American culture, totem poles, salmon fishing, and breathtaking scenery.
Q: When is the best time to visit Ketchikan?
A: The best time to visit Ketchikan is during the summer months from May to September when the weather is mild and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.
Q: What are some other popular activities in Ketchikan?
A: Other popular activities in Ketchikan include visiting the Saxman Native Village, taking a zipline tour, and exploring the historic downtown area.