Arrive in Ketchikan via Alaska Airlines or the Alaska Marine Highway and begin your visit on historic Creek Street. Browse shops filled with Alaskan-made goods and local art, then visit one or more museums to better understand the area’s rich history — from Indigenous culture and towering totem poles to forestry, fishing, and the town’s former red-light district.
End your first evening with classic fish and chips paired with a local craft beer.
Day 2: Forest Trails & Local Flavor
Start your day with a hearty breakfast or a made-to-order coffee before heading out to hike one of the many trails in the Tongass National Forest. Pack a lunch to enjoy with a scenic view surrounded by old-growth rainforest.
In the evening, chat with fishermen and seasonal workers at a local bar, or check the community events calendar for live music, a monthly story slam, or other local happenings.
Day 3: Take to the Sea or Sky
Today is all about awe-inspiring views. A cruise or flightseeing tour to Misty Fjords National Monument is simply non-negotiable. The beauty is unfathomable and truly cannot be overstated. Whether you explore by boat or air, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, seabirds, and marine animals. Tip: Bear viewing is best once the salmon start running in mid-July.
Day 4: Culture, Coastlines & Easy Exploring
Spend the morning visiting Totem Bight State Historical Park or Saxman Totem Park to see intricately carved totem poles set against a forested backdrop. Wander downtown afterward to explore galleries, bookstores, and coffee shops at a relaxed pace.
In the afternoon, consider a shoreline walk or a low-key wildlife tour, then enjoy dinner overlooking the water as the light lingers late into the evening.
Day 5: Paddle & Farewell
On your final day, grab a coffee as the town wakes up and spend the morning kayaking along the shoreline, taking in the quiet coves and forested scenery from the water. Keep an eye out for seals, eagles, and whales as you paddle.
Depart Ketchikan by ferry or flight, already planning your return.
