What it's like
Downtown Ketchikan is a National Historic Landmark district, a small grid of old buildings, galleries and shops set on the edge of the Tongass Narrows. Ketchikan Creek runs through the town and empties into the Narrows a short distance southeast of downtown.
Time here is mostly spent walking. The historic downtown is small, so most people explore on foot, stopping at the galleries and shops that sell locally made goods. Creek Street, with its wooden buildings on stilts above the creek, is worth including on a walk through town.
Good to know
- Ketchikan averages over 160 inches of rain a year, so bring a rain jacket and waterproof shoes.
- Pick up the free walking tour map and travel guide from a Visitors Center to explore at your own pace.
- The Discovery Center is at 50 Main Street.
Downtown Ketchikan
Downtown Ketchikan is a compact historic district of wooden storefronts, galleries and shops, easy to cover on foot. It is the town's main place to browse on foot.
Tours that go here
Prices are per person, booked with our partner, Shore Excursions Group.
Creek Street
Creek Street is a wooden boardwalk built on stilts above Ketchikan Creek, the most scenic stretch of downtown. Shops, galleries and old brothel buildings line the walk.
Totem Heritage Center
Totem Heritage Center is a museum at 601 Deermount Street that holds one of the world's largest collections of unrestored 19th-century totem poles. Visitors also see Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian art and watch carvers at work.
Southeast Alaska Discovery Center
A Forest Service visitor center in downtown Ketchikan, with exhibits on the Tongass rainforest, native cultures and wildlife. A good first stop in town.
Totem Bight State Historical Park
Totem Bight State Historical Park is a 33-acre state park on the ocean about 10 miles north of Ketchikan. It holds a collection of totem poles and a replica of a traditional chieftain's house.
The same kind of day, elsewhere
Old town and historic sights
