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155 Available Tour Excursions in Ketchikan
On this tour you'll enjoy a rich history briefing of the historic fire station, the process of distilling our local spirits, tastings of our house spirits, followed by a hands-on class of how to blend your own custom infusion. All botanicals, herbs, and spices are included in this experience. Once your signature creation is complete, create a custom label and enjoy your bottle back home with friends and family!
Price: $149.00
Duration: 2 hours
Explore Ketchikan in our '67 Volkswagen van. You can enjoy learning about Ketchikan's colorful past, rich Native history, and the flora and fauna that make Southeast Alaska such a wonderful place. Our stops include but are not limited to a local Alaskan beach for intertidal exploration (tidal dependent), photo stops along Nichols Passage, a dazzling waterfall, and a stop at scenic Herring Cove for the possibility to spot wildlife (not guaranteed). Substituting the Saxman Totem Park or a short hike for any of the options above is also available. This tour can be completely customized to fit your itinerary. Just let our guide know; he will use his local knowledge to create an adventure you won't soon forget! This tour is an excellent option for all ages and guests who enjoy exploring with local guides! *Please keep in mind that each tour is different and tour stops may be changed by our guides due to tides, traffic, road construction, and weather.
Price: $600.00
Duration: 2 hours
With the help of your local host with extensive experience in the nutrition and fishing industries, you'll learn how to prepare one of the world's most nutritious foods so you can easily replicate the dishes back home. You will have the opportunity to learn about local fisheries and how to find Wild Alaska salmon wherever you live. This is not an allergen-free kitchen. We are pescatarian-friendly.
Price: $215.00
Duration: 2 hours
Come join us on a lovely 3.6-mile roundtrip hike through an Alaska State Park into the Tongass National Forest. Enjoy a small group of up to 7 guests! First relax on the 40-minute scenic drive to the end of the road. Then hike an improved gravel trail alongside a river with glimpses of waterfalls. Walk through a magical old-growth rainforest displaying impressive specimens of Sitka spruce and western red cedar fencing in the trail. Besides some stairs at the beginning of the hike, the trail flattens out and winds along the river valley below a ridge. 1 mile down the trail, our destination is a stone bench beside a serene bow in the river, where we can pause and enjoy one another and the peace and quiet. This tour is led by owner and operator, Tongass Teague. Enjoy connecting with him, each other, and the wilderness of Southeast Alaska. Ask about practicing mindfulness! Ask about our endangered old-growth forests and how to protect them!
Price: $258.18
Duration: 3 hours
Howdy! My name is Tim. I love to take new people exploring on the ocean to share what I love about where I live. My tour is designed to see the wilds of Alaska from the water and not from the window of a van. Think salt spray, not gift shops. With 3 full hours on the water you will see a range of marine and inter-tidal life. Unlike a dock launched kayak tour I don’t have a firmly set route. The Huckleberry (the cabined vessel in the photos) allows us the mobility to find the best water, wind, and wildlife of the day. After leaving Ketchikan, I will get you geared and lower the tandem kayaks off the boat and into the water. Then we will paddle some beautiful uninhabited, Alaskan coastline together! I strive to make sure that the tour stays accessible regardless of your experience level. After the paddle we will return to the Huckleberry for a snack. The cruise back into town is fast, comfortable, and guaranteed to get you there in plenty of time to catch your cruise ship!
Price: $190.80
Duration: 3 hours
Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Ketchikan's Creek Street with a captivating burlesque show that intertwines history and modern artistry. This hour and a half performance features an array of thrilling acts, including hula hoops, fan dancing, and juggling, all set to the live music of the Slow Burn Band. Each performance pays homage to the pioneering women of Creek Street during the prohibition era, creating a unique storytelling experience. With limited seating for 35 guests, opt for VIP tickets for priority access and a complimentary drink. Enjoy a delightful evening filled with entertainment and history in a venue steeped in Ketchikan's rich past. - Experience a historical burlesque show celebrating Ketchikan's Creek Street - Enjoy live performances set to music by the Slow Burn Band - Choose VIP tickets for priority seating and a complimentary drink - Limited seating for 35, creating an intimate atmosphere
Price: $130.00
Duration: 1 hours
Come join us on a stunning 4-mile roundtrip hike in a small group of up to no more than 7 guests! This tour is led by owner and operator, Tongass Teague. Enjoy connecting with him, each other, and the wilderness of Southeast Alaska. Hike an improved gravel trail alongside a forested lake below a mountain. Plenty of spots for picture taking. From there, the second mile’s more natural tread is mixed with gravel, large rocks, and roots as you ascend through an old-growth rainforest displaying large specimens of Sitka spruce. Learn about some of our flora and fauna and hear about our complicated logging history and what it means for our future. Learn how to protect our endangered old-growth forests! At 1100 feet of elevation, arrive at the bottom of an avalanche chute (devoid of snow in the summer), our destination. Be one of only two tours a day allowed on this cherished trail.
Price: $258.18
Duration: 3 hours
Experience a 1.5-hour Misty Fjords flightseeing tour with Seawind Aviation aboard our classic DeHavilland Otter or Beaver seaplanes. Just a short flight from Ketchikan, you’ll soar above towering 3,000-foot granite walls, deep fjords carved by ancient glaciers, misty peaks, waterfalls, and lush forested slopes. We’ll touch down on a remote mountain lake or calm saltwater inlet for a 20-minute stop, giving you the chance to step out onto the floats and take in the stillness of this pristine wilderness up close. After returning to Ketchikan, we’ll bring you back to the downtown cruise ship docks in plenty of time to board. Norwegian Cruise Line guests who are docked at Ward Cove (20 min outside Ketchikan) will be dropped at the free shuttle stop for easy transport back to their ship.
Price: $470.00
Duration: 2 hours
*Private Charters for group sizes from 2-6 *Transparent Pricing, Rates are same for child to adult, pricing per angler decreases with each angler added *Captains with a minimum of a decade of experience fishing Ketchikan *Communicate directly with your captain after booking, stay up to date on weather, fishing reports, and port times.
Price: $878.38
Duration: 5 hours
This tour is off the beaten path and leaves the pavement and tourists behind for the more rugged mountain dirt roads in the backcountry of the Tongass National Forest, a local favorite drive. The tour is very rural and gains some scenic elevated views depending on weather conditions. We drive through some former logging sites as we explore the need for further conservation of our old-growth forests if we want to continue to breath clean air and if we want to fight climate change and protect one of the United States largest carbon sinks--the Tongass.
Price: $229.43
Duration: 2 hours
Lighthouse Excursions is a locally owned & operated Ketchikan tour company based out of Ward Cove. We pride yourselves on providing guests with an experience of Southeast Alaska through local eyes. Your Lighthouse, Totems & Eagles Excursion is a grab-bag of some of Ketchikan's top attractions, with a little something for everyone. Whether you're a lighthouse enthusiast, a history and culture buff, or love seeing wildlife in their natural environment, this tour is for you! We're passionate about where we live, and we love showing it off to guests from all over the world.
Price: $124.00
Duration: 2 hours
Book the whole boat for one flat rate: $1400 for up to 4 guests; $1700 for 5; $1900 for 6. That makes this private charter a steal! And while all guests are welcome, no other charter fishing operation in Ketchikan is more accessible. Our custom-built boat is wheelchair accessible; we have adaptive fishing gear on board; and Captain Jack has over ten years experience working in various disabled communities. We believe that ocean excursions are for everyone–that's why we built this boat with accessibility in mind. Captain Jack is also a consummate host and year-round resident of Ketchikan, whose primary goal is to give you the best experience possible, whatever the nature of the weather or the bite. Novice anglers will find a friendly and patient teacher. Experienced anglers will have opportunity to try more advanced techniques. And all anglers will meet an enthusiastic captain who is happy to guide you through a taste of what life is like here in Southeast Alaska!
Price: $700.00
Duration: 5 hours
Of all the trips we run, Private Charters run the farthest, spend the most time on the grounds, and provide the greatest flexibility to guests and guides. We send our most experienced captains on these trips because they demand high levels of creativity in targeting a combination of different species. Booking this trip gives you the freedom to define the experience. You may choose from a variety of vessels, target halibut, salmon, lingcod, rockfish, pacific cod, Dungeness crab, or chase sightseeing opportunities and wildlife. We also love to combine this fishing excursion with dining experiences featuring your fresh catch; either at our rustic fish camp deep in the National Forest; or a chef-prepared meal at our restaurant at the harbor after your return. This trip is about crafting an experience that will fit your unique needs and interests. When you book the boat, we look forward to working with you to build an unforgettable Alaskan adventure. You may have up to 6 anglers onboard.
Price: $2,400.00
Duration: 5 hours
*Private Charters for group sizes from 2-6 *Transparent Pricing *Captains with a minimum of a decade of experience fishing Ketchikan *Communicate directly with your captain after booking, stay up to date on weather, fishing reports, and port times.
Price: $749.00
Duration: 4 hours
This small group hike offers a genuine Alaskan rainforest experience far from the crowded sightseeing stops. With a maximum of only 6 guests, you'll enjoy a personal and unhurried pace as you explore one of Ketchikan's most scenic hikes. Unlike large tour groups, this experience focuses on real hiking and meaningful connection. Your local guide will share insights about Tongass National Forest's plants, wildlife and history while leading you through old-growth forest and along the rushing waters of Lunch Creek. Perfect for travelers who want a deeper and more authentic experience in Ketchikan. >>This tour is best suited for travelers who: • Enjoy real hiking on forest trails • Are able to hike 3-6 miles • Want a small group experience • Prefer nature over crowded attractions • Are looking for an authentic outdoor adventure
Price: $199.00
Duration: 4 hours
Embark on the ultimate Alaskan combo shore excursion in Ketchikan, a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and local flavors! Begin your journey with a visit to Herring Cove, where you can witness incredible bear sightings in their natural habitat as they fish for salmon. Dive into the rich history of the Tlingit people at Saxman Native Village, home to stunning, intricately carved totem poles that tell the stories of Alaska’s Native heritage. Then, unwind with a refreshing Alaskan beer at one of the state’s oldest and most charming bars. This unforgettable Alaska shore excursion combines Ketchikan’s wildlife, culture, and cuisine into one amazing excursion. Book your spot today! (Must be 21 years of age with valid photo ID to consume beer.)
Price: $169.00
Duration: 2 hours
This private tour is fully customizable, with a flat rate of $900 for 1-4 people; $1100 for 5; and $1300 for 6. Captain Jack is eager to give you the best day that he can on the water, and there's no fixed route for this tour: just tell him what interests you most, and he'll do what he can to deliver, whether you're hoping to see humpbacks or bears; totem poles or a lighthouse; harbor seals or hidden coastal treasures. Our custom boat was built right here in Ketchikan, and it's fully wheelchair-accessible. There is a large forward deck for viewing scenery and wildlife; another deck to the rear; and a spacious, enclosed cabin with huge windows, for comfortable viewing from indoors. Captain Jack is a year-round Ketchikan resident with 13 years of ocean guiding experience. He also has a deep knowledge of this place and its people that he his excited to share with you. . We are also certified through IBCCES and Autism Double-Checked.
Price: $450.00
Duration: 3 hours
Discover Nature in Style – Award-Winning Luxury Wildlife & Whale Watching Tour Embark on the ultimate ocean adventure aboard our award-winning luxury boat tour, where comfort meets the wild. Cruise the calm pristine waters in the heart of marine wonderlands guided by seasoned expert captains with decades of local knowledge. Feel the thrill as majestic whales feed in coastal waters, harbor seals cruise the shores, and eagles swoop from the sky! Panoramic viewing decks, plush indoor seating, and gourmet Alaskan snacks. Every moment is designed for indulgence. Seasoned wildlife enthusiast or simply seeking an unforgettable escape, our five-star experience delivers unforgettable encounters with nature. Highlights Include: - Close encounters with whales, seals, and eagles. - Insightful narration from expert naturalist captains. -Luxurious seating, climate-controlled cabins, and top-tier amenities -Award-winning service and safety standards -Complimentary beverages and snacks on board
Price: $599.00
Duration: 2 hours
Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: USD
- Languages: English, Tlingit, Haida, and other indigenous languages; English is the primary language spoken by tourists
- Climate: Oceanic
- Timezone: America/Anchorage
- Population: Approximately 8,200 residents
- Best Time to Visit: best time to visit is late spring through early fall for pleasant weather and outdoor activities.
- Visa Requirements Visitors from the United States do not require a visa to enter Ketchikan. Citizens of Canada and most European Union countries can enter the United States visa-free for tourism under the Visa Waiver Program, but must have an approved ESTA. UK citizens also generally enter visa-free under ESTA for short stays. Other international visitors may require a visa or e-visa depending on their nationality. It is recommended to check the latest U.S. visa policies before travel.
About Ketchikan
Ketchikan, located in southeastern Alaska, is a vibrant gateway to the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of the Pacific Northwest. Known as the "Salmon Capital of the World," it offers visitors a unique blend of wilderness adventure and indigenous culture. The town is nestled among lush rainforests and surrounded by waterways, making it a prime destination for fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. Ketchikan’s historic downtown is famous for its colorful wooden buildings, totem poles, and vibrant arts scene. Visitors are drawn to its authentic Alaskan charm, with opportunities to explore native heritage through museums and cultural centers. The combination of scenic beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences makes Ketchikan a compelling destination for travelers seeking both adventure and insight into Alaska’s native traditions.
Ketchikan Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of Alaska
- Duration Range: Half-day or Full-day
- Group Size: Small groups (up to 15 people)
- Difficulty Level: Beginner to Advanced
- Recommended For: The best time to visit is late spring through early fall for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. Pack rain gear and layers due to frequent rain and variable temperatures. Respect local customs and indigenous culture when visiting native sites. Ketchikan is generally safe, but standard precautions apply. Cash and credit cards are widely accepted; tipping is customary in restaurants and for services.
Average Tour Price: $75
Lowest Price Tour: $50
Highest Price Tour: $250
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4. Enjoy Your Experience
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Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Top Attractions
1. Totem Heritage Center – Showcases original totem poles and educates visitors about the indigenous cultures of the region. 2. Creek Street – A historic boardwalk district with shops, galleries, and restaurants built over the water. 3. Misty Fjords National Monument – A stunning wilderness area accessible by boat or plane, known for dramatic cliffs and waterfalls. 4. Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary – Offers guided tours through old-growth rainforest with wildlife viewing opportunities. 5. Saxman Native Village – A living Native American village with totem poles and cultural demonstrations.
Popular Activities
Visitors to Ketchikan can enjoy fishing for salmon and halibut, kayaking through serene waterways, hiking rainforest trails, and wildlife watching including bears and eagles. Cultural experiences include visiting native villages, attending traditional dance performances, and exploring local art galleries. Scenic flightseeing tours provide breathtaking views of glaciers and fjords. For the adventurous, ziplining and bear viewing excursions are popular.
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
Ketchikan’s cuisine highlights fresh seafood, especially salmon, halibut, and crab. Signature dishes include smoked salmon, salmon chowder, and king crab legs. Local eateries often feature wild game and native-inspired dishes. Popular dining spots include The Landing Restaurant for waterfront views and seafood, and Annabelle’s Famous Keg & Chowder House for hearty Alaskan fare. Visitors should try fresh-caught fish prepared simply to appreciate the local flavors.
Getting Around
Ketchikan is accessible by air via Ketchikan International Airport and by ferry or cruise ship. Within town, transportation options include taxis, local buses, and shuttles. The downtown area is compact and walkable. For exploring surrounding areas, boat tours and guided excursions are common. Transportation costs are moderate, with taxis and shuttles readily available for visitors.
Travel Tips
The best time to visit is late spring through early fall for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. Pack rain gear and layers due to frequent rain and variable temperatures. Respect local customs and indigenous culture when visiting native sites. Ketchikan is generally safe, but standard precautions apply. Cash and credit cards are widely accepted; tipping is customary in restaurants and for services.
Culture & Customs
Ketchikan’s culture is deeply influenced by Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian indigenous peoples. Visitors should show respect when visiting native villages and cultural sites. Traditional festivals such as the Celebration event highlight native dance and art. Social customs emphasize friendliness and respect for nature. Photography of totem poles and cultural artifacts is usually allowed but ask permission when photographing people.
About The Author
Calvin has loved travel and adventure since first visiting Los Angeles with a suitcase in 1992 at the age of 20. He ditched the suitcase and got a backpack pretty fast.
He hates leaving after any trip and has to console himself by writing and sharing articles on it. You can find and connect with him on linked in here.
Likes
Travel, Gaming, Scuba Diving, Skiing and anything to do with water.
Dislikes
Exact luggage sizing police and being tired in an airport and many more..