Ketchikan: Alaska’s Colorful Gateway to the Inside Passage
By: Lindsey Brown, Travel Advisor
April 16, 2026
Welcome to Ketchikan: Alaska’s First City and Salmon Capital of the World!
One of the first stops on many Alaska cruises that sail the Inside Passage is Ketchikan, a charming coastal town filled with history, culture, and natural beauty. This port offers the perfect mix of outdoor adventure—think waterfalls, forests, and hiking trails—alongside a rich cultural heritage that makes it a memorable stop on any Alaska itinerary.
Let’s dive in!
Discover Ketchikan’s Totem Pole Heritage
Ketchikan is home to one of the largest collections of standing totem poles in the world. These beautifully carved poles reflect the heritage and traditions of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian people, the Native cultures that have long called this region home.
You’ll see totem poles displayed throughout town, but one of the best places to explore them is Saxman Totem Park. You can reach the park by free city shuttle, local bus, or by enjoying a scenic walk along the boardwalk.
For about $5, visitors can take a self-guided tour through the park to learn about the history behind the poles and the stories they represent. Even if Saxman Totem Park isn’t on your itinerary, I highly recommend taking time to talk with a local guide or resident to learn more about these meaningful works of art and the cultures they represent.
Experience the Great Alaska Lumberjack Show
One of the most popular attractions with cruise visitors is the Great Alaska Lumberjack Show, conveniently located within walking distance of the cruise ship docks.
This high-energy show features traditional logging competitions including:
Log rolling
Axe throwing
Chainsaw carving
Speed climbing
The crowd often gets involved, which makes the whole experience even more fun and interactive. Concession-style snacks are available during the show, or you can upgrade your experience by pairing the show with a meal afterward.
And by meal, I mean an all-you-can-eat crab feast!
Yes, You Should Eat Seafood in Port
I know what you’re thinking: “Why buy food in port when everything is included on the cruise ship?”
Fair question. But many food lovers would argue that trying fresh Alaskan seafood while you’re here is absolutely worth it.
Ketchikan has several restaurants serving incredible seafood, and during our visit we chose Alaska King Crab Company. My husband and I started with the Dungeness Crab and Corn Bisque, then split the Crab Palooza, which included:
King crab leg
King crab claw
Dungeness crab
Each variety had its own distinct flavor, and everything was incredibly fresh and delicious.
Step Back in Time on Historic Creek Street
After lunch, we took a walk through historic Creek Street, which once served as Ketchikan’s red-light district during the Gold Rush era.
One of the most fascinating stops here is Dolly’s House Museum, where you can learn about Dolly Arthur and how she operated her famous brothel—often sneaking visitors in through a secret back entrance.
Most buildings along Creek Street have since been repurposed, but Dolly’s house now stands as a museum that offers visitors a glimpse into this colorful chapter of Ketchikan’s history.
Admission is about $10, and while the stories are entertaining and historically interesting, I would recommend using discretion when visiting with younger children. It may be best suited for guests 16 and older.
Shopping, Wildlife, and Hidden Trails
As you continue walking along the boardwalk, you’ll find charming local shops featuring handmade goods and artwork from local artisans—perfect for picking up a unique Alaska souvenir.
Creek Street also connects to several nearby hiking trails. One of the most popular is Married Man’s Trail, a cool and shady path tucked into the forest just behind the boardwalk.
If you visit during the right time of year, you may even witness salmon spawning in the nearby streams. During our visit, we saw a seal chasing a salmon through the water—and that salmon definitely made the seal work for it!
The Alaska cruise season typically runs May through September, with July and August offering the best chances to see salmon spawning.
No matter when you visit, Ketchikan is a port stop that delivers history, culture, wildlife, and incredible food—all in one unforgettable stop.
Planning Your Alaska Cruise
If you’ve been considering an Alaska vacation, you might already know that planning a cruise can feel overwhelming. As a travel advisor, I can help answer your questions, match you with the right cruise line, and guide you through every step of planning your trip.
I’d love to help you plan your Alaskan adventure!
Be sure to follow along on Facebook for more travel tips and check out the rest of my Alaska Blog Series, where I share:
Embarkation tips
Port guides
Things to do in Seattle before or after your cruise
All food and excursions discussed in this post were purchased at retail rate (pricing available to the general public).