Ketchikan, Alaska

Experience authentic native culture surrounded by unparalleled natural beauty

A drizzly little city bordered by the Tongass National Forest, Ketchikan was once a native fishing village that has evolved and grown through its years in the logging and salmon canning industries.

Surrounded by lakes, rivers, and streams, the “Salmon Capital of the World” is an angler’s paradise. Cast a line on your own, or hop on a charter to reel in salmon, halibut, red snapper, even trout. Keep an eye out for Ketchikan’s other marine residents, which include orca and humpback whales, sea lions, seals, otters, and porpoises. Zipline between cedars over a lush forest of Sitka spruce, hike Married Man’s Trail to surrounding waterfalls, kayak the twist of waterways along the Misty Fjords, or board a seaplane for a bird’s eye view of it all.

The city’s downtown is built around a network of waterways and includes the infamous Creek Street. Once a red-light district during the area’s logging days, this waterfront promenade built high on pilings is now a bustling commercial area filled with quaint restaurants, bars, gift shops, and incredible scenic views. Home to 350 registered artists—including many native Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian artists—Ketchikan also boasts a number of galleries. Visit the world’s largest collection of standing totem poles at the Totem Heritage Center, or immerse yourself in native culture and art at the Saxman Native Village Totem Park. After an exciting day of taking in Ketchikan’s beauty, head back to the boardwalk, grab a beverage and catch some live music.