5 Things to do in Ketchikan, Alaska

Ketchikan is the salmon capital of the world and offers a lot of sightseeing opportunities from flight-seeing to crab feasting – and everything in between.

Here are five things to consider for a port stop in Ketchikan:

1. Mystic Fjords flightseeing. Take a 90-minute flight into Mystic Fjords that dates back thousands of years when the whole land was covered in ice. These fjords tower over 3,000’ in the air and provide insight into glacial activity, wildlife, and cascading waterfalls; some flights even offer an opportunity to drink fresh mountainside water. You can check out the offerings through Viator.

2. Potlatch Totem Park. Walk the grounds of the Tlingit natives of Southeast Alaska. The park is located 10 miles north of Ketchikan. This recreated village brings you back to the 19th century with five tribal homes, totem poles, and vintage. 

3. Walking Tour. Start at the visitor’s center, just by the big “Welcome to Ketchikan” sign and take this two-mile walking tour to experience the waterfront of Ketchikan, historic Creek Street, stores, quaint neighborhoods and an area to overlook the port. You can grab a walking tour map at numerous locations around the pier.

4. George Inlet Lodge Crab Feast. Test your skills as a commercial crabber, where you gear up and head to the wide-open waters of southeast Alaska looking for the Dungeness crab. Be hands-on, pulling the crab pots before returning to the lodge to feast on your catch. Read up on this delicious excursion here.

5. Zipline in the rain forest. If you’re feeling some excitement in your life, you may want to zip line in Ketchikan’s rain forest. Swing between trees and experience stunning views. Eight ropes and seven zip lines will ensure an experience for any age. Find out more about the zip line excursion here.

As you can see, the things to do in Ketchikan are plentiful. Even if you don’t want to soar in a plane or fill up on crab, there’s something to do for everyone.