Things to Do in Ketchikan

Ketchikan, Alaska is the sourthernmost entrance and gateway to Alaska’s Inside Passage, which is a route of waterways known for its history, abundant wildlife, and awe-inspiring scenery. But Ketchikan is also a vibrant destination in its own right; the port is rich in culture and things to do. Whether you want to stay in town and explore on your own or embark on a once-in-a-lifetime excursion, our list has you covered.

When you arrive, you can stop by the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau at Berth 2 to get maps and tourist info. The whole town of Ketchikan is only 3 miles long, and the downtown is about 4 square blocks, so you can easily walk and explore the town before or after you head out on larger excursions and adventures.

We are a team of local Alaskans. Here are our picks for the 12 best things to do in Ketchikan:

1. Creek Street

Ketchikan is known as “Alaska’s First City” and its iconic Creek Street is a must-visit. The stilted buildings look over Ketchikan Creek and are the perfect place for shopping, dining, and sightseeing.

You can explore the shops and restaurants on your own, watch for salmon, visit the Dolly's House Museum, and more. If guided tours and local brews are more your style, though, you can check out the Ketchikan Pub Crawl.

2. Misty Fjords National Monument

Misty Fjords National Monument showcases some of Alaska's most picturesque landscapes: snow-capped mountains, crystal clear lakes, rocky ledges, waterfalls, wildlife, and more. Located just 22 miles East of Ketchikan within Tongass National Forest, it is a must-see experience.

3. The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show

The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show is a family favorite. You can learn about Alaska's logging history and take in a fun and exciting piece of history: once a year, all of Ketchikan would celebrate their logging heritage at the annual Timber Carnival. At this show, you'll get stories of lumberjack history & lore along with thrilling displays of agility and strength.

Afterward, you head to the rustic and elegant George Inlet Lodge for a steaming hot and delicious Dungeness Crab Feast. The menu includes salad and yummy cheesecake with Alaskan blueberry topping for dessert.

4. Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary

The Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary is a private reserve in the forested mountains at rustic Herring Cove. Its home to bald eagles, black bears, seals, and a variety of other species that are attracted by the salmon runs.

On this tour, you also have the opportunity to watch a master totem pole carver at work. You can also see and photograph bald eagles up close.

5. Totem Heritage Center

The Totem Heritage Center is a museum in Ketchikan focused on Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian history and peoples. You can learn the historical context, artistic approach, and cultural traditions of totem poles.

6. Dolly’s House Museum

During the Gold Rush era, loggers, miners, and fisherman would spend their evenings visiting Ketchikan's red light district. Dolly's House Museum is the only "den of iniquity" that still stands today. You can find it at 24 Creek Street - the green doll house looks a lot like it did back then.

Head inside to learn about its history and the women who worked there. You can also take a peak inside the "secret closet," where liquor was stashed during the Prohbition. Admission is $5.

7. Bear Watching

Ketchikan has the highest Black Bear population per square mile in North America. From July through October, you can watch for bears, whales, sea otters, sea lions, seals, bald eagles, and more.

Depending on your interests, you can make bear watching the focus of your excursion, or watch for bears as you travel by boat or plane.

8. Deer Mountain Trail

The Deer Mountain trail is a 2.5 mile hike from trailhead to its summit, with a 1 mile overlook with spectacular views. To best enjoy the hike, check out these guides from Experience Ketchikan and AllTrails.

9. Tongass National Forest

Tongass National Forest, covering 16.7 million acres, is the nation's largest national forest. From Ketchikan, you can explore it by boat, by air, or on foot. Its home to many types of wildlife, including endangered species, and stunning lakes, glaciers, and mountains.

10. City Park and Ketchikan Creek

Take a quiet stroll through City Park in Ketchikan, which runs adjacent to Ketchikan Creek, which is a great place to watch the salmon run in the summertime. City Park is a great place for a picnic, too.

This is a nice stroll to take before or after an excursion.

11. Main Street Gallery

The Main Street Gallery is an art gallery in downtown Ketchikan dedicated to showcasing local Ketchikan artists. In addition to visual arts, there is space for dance groups, poetry readings, plays, and more.

12. Rainbird Trail

The Rainbird Trail is a fun 1.3 mile hike that offers great views of the city and of Tongass Narrows. You can get to the trailhead (at the University of Alaska Southeast campus) by taxi or by bus. Check out this guide for more info.

How to Get to Ketchikan

Ketchikan is located on Revillagigedo Island and, like Juneau, is only accessible by air or sea.

• By Cruise Ship: Ketchikan is one of the most popular ports on Alaska cruise itineraries, bringing thousands of visitors each summer.
  


• By Air: Fly into Ketchikan International Airport (KTN), with direct flights from Seattle and other Alaskan cities. A short ferry ride will take you from the airport to town.
  


• By Ferry: The Alaska Marine Highway System provides scenic ferry routes from other coastal towns.
  

The Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Ketchikan is May through September, when the weather is mild, wildlife is abundant, and local attractions are in full swing.

• May & June: Less crowded, great for bear watching and wildflower blooms.
  


• July & August: Peak tourist season, best time for fishing, whale watching, and long daylight hours.
  


• September: Fewer tourists, fall colors, and good chances of spotting the Northern Lights.
  

Where to Eat When You're Here

Ketchikan is a foodie’s paradise, especially if you love seafood. Here are some top picks:

• Alaska Fish House: Known for its fresh-caught halibut, king crab, and smoked salmon chowder.
  


• Alaska Crepe Co.: If you’re craving something unique, stop by the Alaska Crepe Co. near Creek Street. Their salmon and spinach crepe is a favorite among our staff.
  


• Ketchikan Crab & Go: Perfect for a quick, delicious meal on the go, Ketchikan Crab & Go offers fresh crab legs and seafood options that you can take with you to enjoy while exploring.
  


• The Landing Restaurant: A local favorite for hearty seafood and American classics.
  


• Annabelle’s Famous Keg & Chowder House: A historic spot serving up creamy clam chowder and king crab legs.
  


• Bar Harbor Ale House: A modern eatery with craft beer, seafood, and steak.
  


• Sweet Mermaids: A cozy café offering great coffee, breakfast, and homemade pastries.
  

Ketchikan Reviews

“Hands down the best excursion, maybe the best experience period, that I have ever done. The experience flying over and through the fjord was absolutely stunning. Once in a lifetime experience to land in a remote fjord. Don't think twice, book this trip.”
-Jon A on our Deluxe Misty Fjords National Monument Tour

“This excursion delivered on every promise made. We liked the combination of historical and cultural knowledge about the Tlingit as well as the crazy fun of the Lumberjack show. Our tour guide Adrianna was wonderful. She had excellent commentary to and from the sites. We were also usually the first people back on the bus so we got to talk with her and learn even more about the area. We would highly recommend this excursion!”
-Rebecca W on our The Ketchikan Highlights Tour


“What a fantastic experience this was. The drive up to the lodge was really beautiful. We stopped and saw the most amazing waterfall on the way. When we got to the Lodge, the restaurant with set up and ready to go. The staff and service was excellent. There is no description for the Dungeness crab that was served. It was the best we have ever had, The most delicious, sweetest and tender meat imaginable. And you are offered all you can eat! I would highly recommend this excursion, if you are lucky enough to go to Ketchikan!”
-Marilyn B on our World Famous George Inlet Lodge Crab Feast

View all of our Ketchikan tours here.