Ketchican, Alaska - Things to See and Do

What to see and do in Ketchican, Alaska

Visited May 2019

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Ketchikan, Alaska is home to the largest collection of totem poles in the world.

Ketchikan is a city in the state of Alaska, located in the southeastern part of the state on the coast of the Tongass Narrows. It served as a summer fish camp for Tlingit natives before the town was established in 1885. Many of the totem poles are on display throughout the city and at four major locations: Saxman Totem Park, Totem Bight State Park, Potlatch Park, and the Totem Heritage Center. Downtown Ketchikan is a National Historic District.

When we visited Ketchikan on 5/16/2019, we took a tour of Totem Bight State Park and then visited Creek Street and the downtown area including the Bawden Street brewery.

Ketchikan is known for its scenic beauty, with its location in the midst of the Tongass National Forest, which is the largest national forest in the United States. The city is also famous for its fishing, particularly salmon fishing, and is a popular destination for sport fishermen.

Tourism is a major industry in Ketchikan, with many visitors coming to experience the town's unique cultural heritage and to view the historic totem poles that are scattered throughout the area. In addition to its natural and cultural attractions, Ketchikan is also an important transportation hub for southeastern Alaska, with a large deep-water port that serves as a major port of call for cruise ships traveling the Inside Passage.

Overall, Ketchikan is a charming and unique destination that offers visitors a mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventure.

Looking for things to do? Viator offers numerous tours around the area in Ketchikan. Click here for details.