Travel-savvy Pacific Northwesterners have known for years that Alaska is a destination easily within reach. Closest of all is Ketchikan, just north of the Canadian border along the magnificent Inside Passage. At an easy 90-minute flight time from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, convenient connections throughout the Northwest make it a destination accessible from all major airports within the region.
Alaska Airlines flies daily year-round to Ketchikan. Delta provides seasonal service during the summer. The state-run Alaska Marine Highway System ferries call in Bellingham, Washington, and take 36 hours to travel to Ketchikan; all major cruise lines have scheduled departures from Seattle and Vancouver, B.C., with stops in Ketchikan and beyond this summer.
Whether you cruise or choose to stay for a while you’ll find hotels, quaint inns and dozens of unique vacation rentals. Stop at the visitor information center early in your stay for guides to Ketchikan attractions, historic walking tour, hiking trails, restaurants and shopping. Staff can provide recommendations for events and other activities taking place during your visit.
Armed with information, you will be ready to explore. Ketchikan’s downtown area stretches from the waterfront docks to the wooden boardwalk of world-famous Creek Street, following Ketchikan Creek, truly the heart of town. Vast runs of salmon have been returning to the creek for centuries, so much so that the Tlingit people chose the creek for a summer fish camp, catching and preserving salmon for winter foods. Public art, most notably in the form of tall totem poles can be found throughout the community. Ketchikan has more totem poles than anywhere else in the world and has been recognized as one of the top small arts communities in the U.S. due to the number of practicing artists who live here and are inspired by the natural beauty, and cultural traditions.
Situated within the Tongass National Forest, the nation’s largest, outdoor adventure is minutes away—hiking trails, kayaking, fishing, boating, camping, biking and many more options await. Misty Fjords National Monument, within the forest is a scenic wonder accessible by boat or plane from town.
Ketchikan is known as the Salmon Capital of the world and is proud of its fishing heritage. Salmon, halibut, shellfish and other wild seafood are abundant and provide delicious, healthy options. American fare and ethnic-inspired food, locally brewed beers and coffees are all available to provide the fuel you’ll need to explore Ketchikan.
Plan your Ketchikan visit at http://www.alaskaawaits.com.
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