Ketchikan Alaska Travel Magnet

Ketchikan, Alaska, known as the "Salmon Capital of the World," is a vibrant coastal town nestled along the shores of Alaska’s Inside Passage. Surrounded by lush forests and steep mountains, Ketchikan offers a unique mix of natural beauty, Indigenous heritage, and frontier charm. The town's waterfront is lined with colorful wooden buildings perched on stilts above the water, most notably along historic Creek Street, a former red-light district that’s now a lively boardwalk of shops, galleries, and museums. Cruise ships frequently stop here, bringing visitors eager to explore the town's artistic soul and rich traditions. One of Ketchikan’s cultural highlights is its deep connection to the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples. The area is home to the Totem Heritage Center and Saxman Totem Park, where visitors can see some of the world’s largest collections of authentic totem poles and learn about their stories and meanings. Outdoor adventures abound, from fishing for salmon and halibut to kayaking, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Misty Fjords National Monument, just a short floatplane ride away, offers a spectacular landscape of granite cliffs, waterfalls, and glacier-carved fjords. Ketchikan’s blend of natural wonder and cultural depth makes it a fascinating gateway to Southeast Alaska.