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City in Alaska, United States
Photo: Scott McMurren, CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Ketchikan is a scenic town of approximately 14,000 people (2014) along the Tongass Narrows, at the foot of Deer Mountain, on Revillagigedo Island in Southeast Alaska. It is the southernmost and fourth largest city in Alaska.
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Visit the historical exhibits.
See the rainforest interpretive exhibits.
Watch an exhibition of lumberjack skills.
Ketchikan is situated at the meeting place of three Alaska Native cultures, Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian. Evidence of the rich artistic and dance traditions of the native cultures is apparent throughout the town, most visibly in the totem poles scattered through the historic district and found in larger groupings in totem parks near town:
While Alaska is probably one of the last places people would associate with the term "rainforest", the large amount of rainfall over this sanctuary qualifies it a temperate rainforest, as opposed to the tropical rainforest that are most commonly associated with the word. In fact, the wider Tongass National Forest is one of the largest contiguous temperate rainforests in the world. There are hiking trails. Hemlock, cedar, and spruce trees populate the area, and the salmon spawning streams are also popular among visitors.
Fly through the trees on the original Alaska Zipline Course. Locally owned, operated and staffed. Call for courtesy van.
Fresh Alaskan seafood three minutes from the cruise ship docks.
Serves from a wide menu of mostly Mexican and Italian dishes, is probably the most popular restaurant in town. The food is flavorful and the atmosphere is welcoming and family-friendly. Vegetarian options abound, something that cannot often be said in Ketchikan.
Serve a good meal in a nice atmosphere. There is a respectable beer and wine list, and the views of the waterfront are very nice. Prices are a little on the high side for the quality of food and service received but are not out of line with Ketchikan norms.
Small family run Mexican restaurant. Free chips and pretty good salsa. Food is pretty authentic, especially for up here. Very friendly service and good food.
A popular local take-out opposite the water just past the downtown tunnel. Fast food with a local flavor. It doesn't look like much from the road, but any trip to Ketchikan without a BQ halibut sandwich is a wasted trip.
Formerly named "Pioneer Pantry", and still called that by many locals, the Pioneer Cafe has moved from its former location on Front Street and reinvented itself in a new Mission Street location as a 1950s-style diner. Deliver to local addresses.
This is a sweet little restaurant, lavishly furnished, that takes you back to the days when the nearby Red Light District was in full swing. Linen napkins and goblets for your water, along with servers in white shirts and black vests give this moderately-priced eatery an heir of sophistication. They are known for their chowder and the reputation is deserved. They also make a great Southwestern Halibut Wrap.
Cozy dive bar with karaoke on Friday and Saturday.
the hostel that uniquely finds itself within the confines of a Methodist church. Can accommodate men/women in separate quarters, but no pets.
Variety of room types available. On-site restaurant and marina. Offers shuttle service to/from the airport and downtown. Book on website or by telephone.
This shop has a fine collection of hand carved masks and other art by Haida, Tlingit, and Tsimshian carvers.
Less focused on Southeast Alaska - sells artifacts from throughout the state
Native design prints and sculptures by Marvin Oliver featuring bold colors and unusual materials.
Locally owned and well stocked with the works of Alaska authors and books on the history, flora, and fauna of Ketchikan and Southeast Alaska.
By boat
Ketchikan is served by the ferries of the Alaska Marine Highway System.2 km) north of downtown.
By plane
5 miles (800 m) from the nearest food and lodging. The Ketchikan side of the airport ferry service is connected by local bus service.
By taxi
Taxi services can provide visitors with access to outlying areas and to tourist destinations outside of town.
By bus
The town's bus service operates three bus lines (Green, Silver and Gold) for locals and visitors.5 mi south of town. Green and Silver line buses run 60 minutes apart.
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Ketchikan · Regional · KTN
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