What to See & Do in Ketchikan, Alaska

From towering totem poles to rainforest hikes and breathtaking fjord flights, Ketchikan offers a rich blend of culture, history, and adventure. Whether you’re exploring on foot or by floatplane, there’s no shortage of memorable ways to experience this coastal Alaskan gem.

Cultural & Historic Attractions

  • Creek Street Historic District
    Stroll along the colorful boardwalk of this once-notorious red-light district, now home to shops, galleries, and Dolly’s House Museum. Explore Married Man’s Trail and watch salmon swim upstream in summer.
  • Totem Heritage Center
    View one of the world’s largest collections of unrestored 19th-century totem poles along with cultural exhibits honoring Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian traditions.
    601 Deermount St, Ketchikan, AK 99901
    📞 (907) 225-5900
  • Southeast Alaska Discovery Center
    This downtown Forest Service museum features engaging exhibits on temperate rainforests, Native heritage, and Southeast Alaska’s ecology.
    50 Main St, Ketchikan, AK 99901
    📞 (907) 228-6220
  • Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show
    Cheer on athletes as they compete in axe-throwing, log rolling, and other timber sports in this high-energy, family-friendly show.
    420 Spruce Mill Way, Ketchikan, AK 99901
    📞 (907) 225-9050

Outdoor Adventures & Wildlife

  • Ward Lake Recreation Area
    A peaceful destination just outside town for walking, birding, or picnicking near the water. The 1.3-mile loop trail is great for all ages.
  • Deer Mountain Trail
    Popular local hike offering panoramic views of the town and surrounding Tongass National Forest. Trailhead is walkable from downtown.
  • The Alaska Catch
    Book a half- or full-day charter for salmon or halibut fishing with expert local guides.
    📞 (907) 617-4717
  • Baranof Fishing Excursions
    Custom guided fishing trips with fish processing and shipping services.
    📞 (907) 225-4055
  • Southeast Sea Kayaks
    Paddle through protected coves and rainforest shorelines for a quiet and immersive wilderness experience.
    📞 (907) 225-1258

Flightseeing & Scenic Tours

Family-Friendly Fun

  • Ketchikan Duck Tour
    Ride an amphibious vehicle for a narrated tour that travels both city streets and the Tongass Narrows.
    2979 Tongass Ave, Ketchikan, AK 99901
    📞 (907) 225-9899
  • Alaska Canopy Adventures
    Zipline through the rainforest canopy on a guided aerial adventure.
    📞 (907) 225-5503
  • Bering Sea Crab Fisherman’s Tour
    Join the crew of the Aleutian Ballad for a behind-the-scenes look at life aboard a working crab boat.
    Berth 3, Ketchikan, AK 99901
    📞 (907) 225-9443