Ketchikan clings to the banks of the Tongass Narrows at the southeastern edge of Alaska, often the first landfall for those entering the Inside Passage. Framed by the misty, old-growth expanse of the Tongass National Forest, the town has long thrived on salmon fishing and packing, and its waterfront district of wooden boardwalks and false-front buildings reflects that working heritage. Rain nurtures the deep-green forests that rise steeply behind town, sheltering black bears and abundant wildlife not far from the harbor.
The town holds one of the world's largest collections of standing totem poles, displayed at sites including Saxman Totem Park, Totem Bight State Park, and the Totem Heritage Center, each illustrating Tlingit and other Native carving traditions. Creek Street, a former boardwalk district built on pilings above Ketchikan Creek, sits within easy walking distance of the pier and makes for an easy first stop ashore. Beyond town, floatplane and boat excursions open onto glacier-carved fjords and misty wilderness.
Pavlus Recommendations
How our planners would spend a day in Ketchikan.
Explore Saxman Totem Park
Wander among dozens of intricately carved totem poles and watch Tlingit carvers at work in the on-site workshop; located about two miles south of the pier, reachable by shuttle or short taxi ride.
Stroll Creek Street's Boardwalks
Walk the pilings-built boardwalk above Ketchikan Creek, lined with historic buildings turned into shops and galleries, a short walk straight from the dock and worth 30-45 minutes.
Take a Floatplane over the Fjords
Soar above glacier-carved valleys, waterfalls, and misty wilderness for sweeping views no shoreline walk can match; flights depart from the harbor and typically run one to two hours, so book ahead.
Cruise Lines That Call Here
Click a cruise line to see its Ketchikan sailings and Pavlus pricing.
