Where is it?
It is the first city in Alaska when you start from Seattle. See city facts posted at the port.
How do you get there?
It is a stop on the inland Alaska cruise, you can also go by Air. but you have to take short ferry to the town from the airport. There is no road to drive to Ketchikan.
Places to stay:
We stayed at the Best Western at the Landing which is a decent hotel. It also has a complimentary shuttle to go to downtown all day. Down town is about 2 miles from the hotel. There is also a bus stop right next to the hotel.
Another lodge we liked was Cape Fox, good service, good menu and the best view in town. Plus it is in down town where all the action is.
Best time to go:
Summer of course. Winters are harsh but 2014-15 had a very mild winter and early summer. It rains a lot so make sure you take rain jacket and a light jacket.
Places to visit:
Zodiac tour - A ride in a rubber raft where you get to drive the boat, a good 2 hr sea excursion , You might see whales playing in the sea or a bald eagle catching a fish.
Downtown tour of Creek street is entertaining and right next to the fish ladders.
We also took a bike ride. There is only 1 place where you can rent a bike on honor system for $20/day. The bikes are good. We rode from downtown to Herring Cove where the river meets the bay and when tide comes in, salmon come in too. You have to go at the time when the tide is just starting to come in.
There is one hike that starts behind Best Western. The hike goes up in the mountain, has fantastic views and is pretty easy and well maintained. It goes to the Carlanna lake and beyond.
The original tribes of Tsimshian live on an island called Metlakatla. Other tribes, Tlingit and Haida are known for their Totem poles. you can see the totem pole museum in the downtown or go to the Totem State park. We took the city bus. It is very easy to commute in the bus.
Local Art scene -
The small town of 10000 people, has a fabulous 4th of July parade. Everybody is super excited about the parade. It is fun to watch how the whole town participates.
The town folks are also very enthusiastic about art and drama. They put up a play every month. Unique art by the pier has a wonderful collection.
All in all, it is a beautiful town with friendly people, There are more bald eagles than humans on the islands, The town is surrounded by sea and mountains and that makes you relax and enjoy your time in Ketchikan, Alaska.
3000+ mile road trip in winter: Portland OR to Tucson, AZ and small towns in between.
