Ketchikan, AK

Ketchikan has a mild, maritime climate, and the best time to visit depends on your interests:

• May–September (Summer): Best for cruise travel, salmon fishing, and outdoor adventures.
• June–August: Peak season for wildlife viewing, mild temperatures (55–70°F), and long daylight hours.
• September–October (Fall): Great for fewer crowds and prime salmon runs.
• November–April (Winter): Ideal for quiet getaways and storm-watching, but expect frequent rain.

• Misty Fjords National Monument – A breathtaking wilderness with glacier-carved fjords, waterfalls, and wildlife.
• Creek Street – A historic boardwalk lined with colorful buildings, once home to Ketchikan’s Red-Light District.
• Totem Bight State Historical Park – A beautiful collection of Native Alaskan totem poles and tribal heritage sites.
• Saxman Native Village – Experience Alaska Native culture, traditional dance performances, and totem carving.
• Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show – A fun and energetic show featuring log-rolling, axe-throwing, and lumberjack skills.
• Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary – A wildlife-rich area with black bears, bald eagles, and a salmon hatchery.
• Deer Mountain Trail – A challenging hike offering stunning panoramic views of Ketchikan and the surrounding islands.
• Tongass National Forest – The largest temperate rainforest in the U.S., ideal for hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography.
• Dolly’s House Museum – A quirky museum showcasing Ketchikan’s colorful past.
• Salmon Fishing Excursions – Ketchikan is one of the best places in the world to fish for wild salmon.

• Wild Alaskan Salmon – Fresh grilled, smoked, or blackened salmon straight from the local waters.
• Halibut Fish & Chips – A local favorite made with crispy battered halibut and hand-cut fries.
• Reindeer Sausage – A savory and smoky Alaskan delicacy.
• Smoked Salmon Chowder – A creamy soup featuring wild-caught salmon and local ingredients.
• Crab Legs & Dungeness Crab – Enjoy fresh, steamed crab served with melted butter.
• Fireweed Honey – A sweet and floral honey made from Alaskan wildflowers.
• Huckleberry Jam – A delicious preserve made from wild huckleberries.
• Alaskan Amber Beer – A locally brewed favorite from the Alaskan Brewing Company.

• Flights: Arrive at Ketchikan International Airport (KTN), with connections from Seattle and Anchorage.
• Cruises: Ketchikan is a major stop on Alaska Inside Passage cruise itineraries.
• Ferries: The Alaska Marine Highway System connects Ketchikan to other coastal towns.
• Car Rentals: Available but not necessary for exploring downtown and main attractions.
• Taxis & Rideshares: Limited Uber and Lyft availability, but local taxis are an option.
• Water Taxis & Floatplanes: The best way to reach remote areas like Misty Fjords.
• Walking & Biking: The downtown area is very walkable, with many attractions nearby.

• For U.S. travelers: No passport or visa required.
• For international travelers: A valid passport is required, and a visa may be necessary depending on your country.
• For cruise passengers: U.S. citizens can use a passport or a government-issued ID with a birth certificate for most itineraries, but a passport is recommended.

• Currency: U.S. Dollar (USD).
• Credit cards are widely accepted, but some small shops prefer cash.
• ATMs are available throughout Ketchikan, including near the cruise port.
• Currency exchange services are limited—exchange money before arrival if needed.

• English is the primary language spoken.
• Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian languages are spoken in some Native Alaskan communities.
• Most tourist attractions and restaurants have English-speaking staff.

• Respect Native Alaskan culture and traditions when visiting tribal sites and totem parks.
• Tipping is customary (15-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and for taxi/rideshare drivers).
• Expect rain—Ketchikan is one of the rainiest places in the U.S., so dress accordingly.
• Do not approach wildlife—bears, eagles, and other animals should be observed from a safe distance.
• Pack layers—even in summer, temperatures can be cool, especially on the water.

• Restaurants: 18–20% tip is standard for good service.
• Bars: $1–2 per drink or 15–20% of the total bill.
• Hotels: $2–5 per bag for bellhops, $2–5 per night for housekeeping.
• Taxis & Rideshares: 10–15% tip is appreciated.
• Tour Guides & Excursions: $10–20 per person for great service.

• For peak cruise season (May–September): Book 6–12 months in advance for excursions and hotels.
• For fishing charters and bear-watching tours: Book at least 3–6 months ahead.
• For last-minute trips: Ketchikan can be busy in summer, so booking at least a few weeks ahead is recommended.

• COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, but check for any updates before traveling.
• Some Native lands require permits or guided tours—check before visiting.
• Weather can affect travel plans—floatplane tours and ferry services may be delayed due to conditions.

Contact us at 281-229-0862 or admin@pointmetoparadise.com