Things to do in Ketchikan
Discover amazing Ketchikan activities and premium in-home experiences.
Perched between lush rainforest and the winding waters of the Tongass Narrows, Ketchikan invites you to explore a world of towering totem poles, vibrant salmon runs, and mist-shrouded islands. Wander through colorful creek-side boardwalks, hop aboard a fishing charter, or drift beneath the ancient canopy on a kayak adventure. In Ketchikan, every sunrise brings the promise of fresh sea air, local flavors, and Alaskan wilderness at your doorstep.
Popular Activities in Ketchikan
E-Bike & Guided Rainforest Walk at Clover Pass
Combine effortless e-biking with a guided rainforest walk and scenic snacks at Clover Pass Resort.
Ketchikan Rainforest Shoreline Kayak Eco Tour
Paddle calm coastal waters and soak in lush rainforest scenery on a relaxed 4-hour guided eco-tour.
Ketchikan Zodiac Speedboat Tour on the Pacific
Pilot your own fast Zodiac along Alaska’s Pacific coastline with a guide leading the way.
Ketchikan Kayak Tour with Fast Boat to Orca Cove
Experience a small-group kayak adventure to remote Orca Cove, with wildlife spotting and smoked-salmon snacks
Ketchikan Zipline Tour Through Tongass Rainforest
Fly through the Tongass Rainforest on nine ziplines and spot wildlife from lofty platforms
Naturalist-Led Wildlife Boardwalk & Totems
Discover Alaska's wildlife on a guided rainforest boardwalk with a naturalist
Tongass Rainforest Zipline: 7 Lines & Sky Bridge
Glide over Tongass Rainforest on seven ziplines and a suspension bridge for a thrilling aerial eco-tour.
Pull Crab Pots & Feast in Tongass Rainforest
Pull authentic Alaskan crab pots and savor a fresh Dungeness crab feast amid Tongass National Forest scenery.
Fly to Secluded Beaches & Spot Alaska Wildlife
Fly over water and land in a state-of-the-art hovercraft to reach secluded Ketchikan beaches and spot wildlife
Wild Bears at Neets Bay: Boat & Land Safari
Observe wild bears near Neets Bay on a guided land-and-sea adventure
Alaskan Lodge Wildlife Cruise & Seafeast
Experience wildlife cruising and savor a hearty seafood boil at a secluded Alaskan lodge.
Explore the Wonders of Ketchikan
Ketchikan is a vibrant coastal city where the lush Tongass National Forest meets the shimmering waters of Alaska's Inside Passage. Known as the "Salmon Capital of the World," this charming town offers visitors an authentic taste of Alaskan culture and natural beauty. Whether you're strolling along historic Creek Street, once home to lively bordellos, or admiring intricate Native totem poles at Saxman Village, there's no shortage of unique experiences here.
Adventure seekers will find plenty to do in Ketchikan. Embark on a guided kayaking tour through Misty Fjords National Monument for breathtaking views and wildlife sightings that include bald eagles and harbor seals. For those who prefer staying on land, hiking trails like Deer Mountain offer panoramic vistas that are worth every step. In summer months, you can join local fishermen for an unforgettable day catching salmon or halibut right from these rich waters.
The magic continues with cultural encounters that bring Ketchikan’s heritage to life. Visit Totem Bight State Historical Park to see stunning hand-carved poles set against a backdrop of towering trees and ocean waves. Local art galleries showcase works inspired by indigenous traditions and modern interpretations alike—perfect mementos from your journey northward into one-of-a-kind adventures only found in this part of Alaska.