Ketchikan
The Salmon Capital of the World — totems, rainforest trails, and floatplanes over misty fjords.
Overview
Ketchikan is the first Alaska port on most Inside Passage itineraries and the introduction to what makes Alaska cruising so special. The town clings to a steep hillside above the Tongass Narrows, surrounded by the world's largest temperate rainforest. Creek Street — a former red-light district of stilted wooden buildings over a salmon stream — is the most charming boardwalk in Alaska. The totem pole collections here are the world's finest. And it rains a lot — Ketchikan averages 160 inches per year.
Quick Facts
- Currency
- US Dollar (USD)
- Language
- English
- Climate
- Temperate rainforest. Cool, very wet. Bring a good rain jacket regardless of season.
- Best Months
- June–August (warmest, best for salmon runs and wildlife)
- Pier to Town
- Ships dock within walking distance of downtown Ketchikan.
Must Eat
Fresh Salmon
Ketchikan is the Salmon Capital of the World — try grilled wild king salmon at Annabelle's or any seafood restaurant downtown.
Crab Bisque
Rich, creamy Dungeness crab bisque from Cape Fox Lodge overlooking the Narrows.
King Crab Legs
Buy them direct from the fishing boats at the dock — cheaper and fresher than any restaurant.
💡 DIY Tip
Walk Creek Street (the historic red-light district boardwalk over the salmon stream) for free — it's Ketchikan's most photogenic area. Then walk 10 minutes to Totem Heritage Center ($10) for the world's best collection of original totem poles. Skip the overpriced flightseeing unless it's your dream.
🚢 Ship Excursion Verdict
The town itself is very walkable. Book a ship excursion for floatplane or helicopter tours (the aerial views of the rainforest and fjords are spectacular and hard to arrange independently), or for sportfishing charters.