One Day in Ketchikan: An Adventurer's Itinerary!

  • Misty Fjords National Monument (8am) - Start the day with a scenic flightseeing tour to the breathtaking Misty Fjords. Marvel at the grandeur of the snow-capped mountains, dotted with waterfalls, lush rainforest, and glacially carved fjords. Take a boat tour to smooth out water landing.
  • Creek Street (11am) - Known for its colorful wooden houses built on stilts along the creek, Creek Street offers a historic and cultural perspective to the city of Ketchikan. Check out the fish ladders and hatcheries and learn about the city's fishing history at the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center.
  • Totem Bight State Historical Park (2pm) - Surrounded by Sitka spruce and hemlock trees, this park showcases intricately carved totem poles that depict the fascinating stories of the indigenous Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian people. Take a stroll along the coastal path and experience the pristine natural beauty of the rainforest.
  • Saxman Native Village (4pm) - Visit the traditional Tlingit village of Saxman for a unique cultural experience. Watch the master carvers at work and admire the totem poles and tribal structures. Marvel the "Biggest Collection of Totem Poles" of the world.
  • Tongass Historical Museum (6pm) - End the day at the Tongass Historical Museum, where you can learn more about the colorful history and culture of Ketchikan. Delve into its rich economic past and delve deeper into its present live cultures.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Misty Fjords National Monument (3 hours, $250)
  • Creek Street (2 hours, Free)
  • Totem Bight State Historical Park (2 hours, $15)
  • Saxman Native Village (2 hours, $20)
  • Tongass Historical Museum (1 hour, $5)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $290

Transportation

Transportation options in Ketchikan include bus, taxi, and rental car. Walking is also a great way to explore the downtown area. For the day's itinerary, we recommend taking a scenic flightseeing tour for the Misty Fjords National Monument and hiring a taxi for the rest of the locations as taxis are readily available nearby and can offer instant conveyance.

Useful Tips

If you have more than a day in Ketchikan, consider visiting the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary or the Tongass National Forest for more wilderness and wildlife experiences. Or take a trip on the infamous Deadliest Catch boats to learn more about the fishing industry. If you have less than a day in town, consider dropping Saxman Native Village from this itinerary as this place requires a little more time to explore all beautiful things. also choose walking as your primary mode of transportation to save time and money.

Airports

The Ketchikan International Airport (KTN) is the main airport that serves the city of Ketchikan. Located just 4 miles northwest of the city center, it makes it an easy and quick ride to any place of interest. It is conveniently operated by major airline carriers such as Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines.

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