Ketchikan is a beautiful, inviting and exciting destination to visit in the Last Frontier State. Over the course of the summer months (April – September), a vast majority of Ketchikan’s visitors are from cruise ships – and from mainland individuals working their summer months in Ketchikan (and I used to be one of them!). Although I did spend a summer in Ketchikan, I may not be an expert or a local, but I can definitely help guide you to some must see unique things to do in Ketchikan, Alaska.

Best Things to Do in Ketchikan from a Former Local!

1. Grab a Photo in Front of the Ketchikan Sign

If you arrive in Ketchikan via cruise ship or plane, you’ll notice the infamous welcome sign of Ketchikan. This is the perfect spot to grab a photo! It’s located on Mission street connecting to Front street. This is the start to begin your journey through the small town of Ketchikan.

2. Stroll Creek Street

If you’re looking for something free to do while in Ketchikan, check out creek street, the heart of historical Ketchikan, and one of the top tourist attractions. At Creek Street, you can tour Dolly’s House museum, shop at local stores and art galleries, view totem poles and more. However, best of all, you can see THOUSANDS of salmon swim upstream during the summer months – you can even see seals, otters and bald eagles! A tourist location to check all your must-see items off your checklist.

3. Catch a Show at the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show

Grab your Timberland’s and a striped flannel to watch some Lumberjacks chop logs, climb trees and balance on spinning floating water logs. The Lumberjack show is an exciting, engaging and unique experience as the show reflects upon Southeast Alaska’s rich logging history coming to life with thrilling displays of strength and agility. It is a one hour show filled with excitement and laughter that is unique throughout all of Alaska.

4. Go Fishing with the Deadliest Catch Crab Fishermen’s Tour

Deadliest Catch? You heard that right. This Fisherman Tour uses the boat featured on the American reality television series that premiered on the Discovery Channel, but it is now used for tourist interested to see how the crab fishing is done. Get up close and touch sea life from the beautiful waters of Alaska’s Inside Passage.

5. Hike Deer Mountain

If you’re coming to Alaska for the scenery or hikes – Deer Mountain is a must-do. This mountain is a strenuous 6.7-mile-out-and-back hike looming over 3,000 feet. This hike will take roughly 5 hours to complete, but the view at the top is breathtaking – it makes it worth it. Before you go on this strenuous hike, make sure you wear comfortable shoes, pack extra water, and carry bear spray or a bear horn.

6. Grab a Drink at the Arctic Bar

The Arctic Bar is located right on the water of Ketchikan. This is a great spot to meet some locals, grab some local beer and enjoy the views of the Alaska waters and mountains. If you’re in Ketchikan for a sunset, this is the best place to see one!

7. Try Fresh Fish at the Salmon Market

If you want to try the freshest fish – the Salmon Market is the place to be! The Salmon Market consists of the 5 types of Salmon: Chum, Sockeye, King, Silver and Pink. All these types of salmon are locally caught, prepared, and freshly packed in a can. The Salmon Market has some of the best salmon!

8. Try Fish Tacos at Alaska’s Fish House

Salmon, Halibut & Cod – prepared taco-style, fish-and-chips-style or on a burger! The Alaska Fish House has some amazing freshly prepared choices of fish to choose from with a unique dining experience. The restaurant includes some of the local Alaska beers and handpicked wine. All fish is locally caught and prepared, but you’re in Alaska, what fish isn’t local?

The Alaska Fish House is located right next door to the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show – snag some tickets to the show and enjoy some fresh fish afterwards.

9. Visit the Misty Fjords

Ketchikan provides tours of the Misty Fjords National Monument via air or sea. The Misty Fjords is the largest wilderness area in Alaska’s national forest and the second largest in the nation. The monument is known for its steep cliffs jutting 3,000 feet from the ocean, deep fjords, coastal rainforest, glacier-carved valleys, and unique geological features. This views in the Misty Fjords are the most picturesque in all of Ketchikan.

10. View Totem Poles at Totem Bight State Park

The Totem Bight State Park is a family-friendly park located slightly outside of Ketchikan. The park is a historical park showcasing the totem poles left behind from non-Native settlements in the 1900s. The Totem poles left behind were overgrown by forest and eroded by weather – which were soon recovered by young artists learning to carve the totem poles left behind or recreate. The Totem Bight State Park has 14 gorgeous totem poles and it is a highly visited attraction!

11. Walk the infamous Ketchikan Staircase

If you want to find a 180° view of the town, this is the attraction for you! Ketchikan is known to have staircases located all throughout the town – some small and large – and tours are offered to view all the staircases! However, the stairs located on Edmond Street are by far the largest and easily accessible staircase. With over 100 stairs, you can guarantee a breathtaking view of the city at the top of the stairs! Another picturesque location to document your trip!

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