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Sitka is definitely the place. During this time here, he collected more than 5,000 items and many of these can be seen in the museum today. 20 Best Things to Do in Sitka, Alaska on a Cruise Packed with displays, photographs, and artifacts from Sitka's Tlingit, Russian, and American history, the museum is a worthwhile stop. Taxis are limited, but available. Park A light raincoat - even in summer, Sitka is often rainy. Bordering British Columbia, with its countless things to do, Alaska boasts islands waiting to be discovered by tourists. Sitka is located on Alaska's Inside Passage on Baranof Island. The official mobile guide to the best of Alaska. Twin Islands Retreat - We had the pleasure of visiting Twin Islands on our first night in Sitka and not only is the property is truly stunning, but the owners Merri and Larry are some of the nicest and most welcoming people we had met anywhere. Refresh your spirit. Its not always easy to uncover reminders of Alaska's 135-year-long dalliance with the Russian Empire until you dock in Sitka. Not only does a visit give you plenty of interesting things to see, but it gives you an insight into the towns Russian past. Get out into the wilderness and hike one of the two hiking trails found here, Ben Grussendorf Trail and Mosquito Cove Trail. Alaska Airlines offers daily flights from Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, Ketchikan, and Seattle. Visitors to Sitka by cruise will enjoy leisurely stepping off the boat in the morning, strolling into town to explore the shops, and scheduling a private tour or excursion to one or several of the local sites. If youre looking for anice day along the waterfront with the family, this is the spot. The spirited New Archangel Dancers perform Russian folk dances using authentic music, choreography, and costumes. Watch whales, hike, fish, visit local communities, and moreall at your ownpace. Enter our photo contest with your scenic, outdoor, wildlife or other awesome snapshots. Visit September to April to see the Northern Lights. Dancers perform when the cruise ships are in town, between May and September. : Instagram user @derekmazur_ If you are a keen wildlife photographer, you will be very happy with the sights you get to see here. Sitka is located in Southeast Alaska, on Baranof Island. : pconnorsherrill_ 1 2 3 4 Home Destinations Sitka Alaska A century before the Klondike gold rush made Alaska world famous, Russian fur traders quietly settled the Sitka area as a colonial outpost of Russian America. Blundstone Waterproof Boots - perfect for walking and hiking in any weather. Things to Do in Sitka | Frommer's Visiting Fortress of The Bear was one of my absolute highlights while in Sitka. Share the trail with abundant wildlife year round, including coastal brown bears and bald eagles. Sitka, AK | Things to Do, Recreation, & Travel Information Watch my Instagram Highlights from our trip in August here! Luckily, getting to Sitka is relatively easy. Sitka sits on the outer coast of Alaskas Inside Passage and central to the sprawling Tongass National Forest. All elements of Sitka's history converge in one place at the Sitka History Museum. Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, The 9 Best Northern Lights Viewing Spots Near Anchorage, How to Travel to Alaska in January and February, The Best Large Family & Group Vacations in Alaska, How to Get from Anchorage to Your Cruise Port in Whittier or Seward (or the reverse! It's in a gorgeous setting on the outer coast of Southeast Alaska at the edge of the Pacific Ocean yet protected by a beautiful harbor with tiny islands everywhere. From Moccasins to Russian Nesting dolls, shoppers can bring home unique souvenirs from their visit. Insider's Guide to Sitka, Alaska: Free and Fun Things to Do in Sitka Begin in downtown Sitka, where youll take amotorized, rigid-hull inflatable on a15- to 20-minute ride across beautiful Sitka Sound, with the massive volcano Mt. Focus on Denali & Kenai Fjords. If you miss seeing abrown bear outdoors in Southeast Alaska, you can see several here, anon-profit park and learning center. Sitka is a vibrant community with a passionate population that brings noteworthy events to town year-round. Another off-shoot trail leads to Sitka High School. Whilst on your hike you will have the opportunity to spot bears, wild salmon and eagles soaring overhead. more. Sitka may be a more populous town than many others in Alaska, however, for those who plan to travel in the wilderness without a tour, be sure to review ways to stay safe in Alaska's wilderness. Military in Alaska struggles with 'constant strain' of child care shortage Refresh your spirit. The beauty of Alaska awaits. Alaska Visitors Guide 2023 (Opens in new window) Celebrating Nurses (Opens in new window) . You will find the art gallery and store on Lincoln Street in Sitka. This historical site is managed by Alaska State Parks and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. With a tour guide or group, you are safer and less likely to get lost but however you decide to explore, you are sure to see some amazing sights. And intrepid hikers can walk all the way to the top. Address:118 Lincoln Street, Sitka, AK 99835. #HALCruises #hollandamerica #nieuwamsterdam #hollandamericaline #alaskancruise #alaska #alaskalife #thealaskalife #alaskanadventure #alaskaphotography #alaskaliving #alaskan #alaskaawaits #onlyinalaska #sharingalaska #thelastfrontier #youneedalaska #heralaskalife #travelalaska #visitseak #sitka #sitkaalaska #sitkatravel #visitsitka #excursion #excursions #kayakingfun #kayaking #kayakingadventures #seakayaking, They definitely didnt listen to my fall family photoshoot pose requests.still cute though its the ears that do me in Once the administrative headquarters for an empire stretching from Asia to California and Hawaii, Castle Hill today is little more than agrassy hill with afew interpretive signs, amodest stonewall, several old cannons, and afew flagpoles. A water taxi will take tourists and locals alike to areas around Sitka Sound, while other sightseeing boats can also be chartered in town. Watch my Instagram Story highlights here for a real time look at an adventurous long weekend in Sitka, Alaska. There are a range of different items on display, including scenic photographs, handmade jewelry, light catchers and wooden and clay sculpted masks. Its had recent upgrades, so its easy to follow and there are rock benchesand Each year, Alaska Day is still celebrated on October 18. . Customize your private expedition with experienced captain John Joeright and enjoy all-inclusive meals, comfortable accommodations, and endless adventures on the 46-foot S/V Shamrock. Very important for kelp and eelgrass to keep those sea urchins at bay. Free personal GPS-driven travel guide to Alaska. Drive your own boat (no experience necessary) as the owner Andy - and often is amazing co-pilot of young son - guide the way and share local insight and history. Our Strategic Partners. Lots of elevation, lots of rocks to shimmy over, and lots and lots of gratitude for this breathtaking world we live in. Browse schedules, cruise deals, transportation options, and request a no obligation cruise quote. Every year the center gives medical treatment to up to two hundred injured bald eagles and other local birds. Whale Park provides an opportunity to view marine wildlife from land, including humpback whales. We've got you covered. Discover the optimal month due to daylight, temperature, and rain. Purchased by the State of Alaska in 1985, the Sheldon Jackson Museum was founded in 1888 to house an exceptional collection of Alaska Native Join us for a 6-day spring cruise April 20th - 27th, 2024 on the Inside Passage from Sitka to Petersburg, Alaska. Explore Alaskas hot springs and glaciers aboard aunique ship that puts you behind the helm and lets you man the sails. Sitka, AK 99835. Owner/operators Cameo and Brooks take groups of up to 6 My goal, after 40 years of offering nature and wildlife tours, is always to exceed your wildest expectations! Posted On May 23, 2022 Last Updated on May 30, 2022 Sitka is one of the most delightful communities in Alaska. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Sitka - 2023 (with Photos) - Tripadvisor . Getting there takes around 45 minutes to an hour on a boat, and the ride is calm and beautiful - we went with Captain Gary's Sitka Adventures. The local network of roads encourages campers to explore outdoor options, while the downtown area offers the usual array of bed and breakfasts, lodges, and motels. Spanning across 500 miles of Alaska'sInside Passageand, Epic history, majestic landscapes, and pristine beaches await visitors to the state parks in this quaint coastal town. Not for lack of activities to do, but for the convenience of having built-in lodging and dining options at the end of the day. Edgecumbe, a dormant volcano, provides an impressive view for much of the town. Sitka, AK 2023: Best Places to Visit - Tripadvisor It leads through stunted forests to aboardwalked section of the trail near Beaver Lake. Subscribe to Away LandsAnd Receive 10% Off Our Presets. You may even catch a glimpse of the salmon leaping up steam in the rivers, which is an amazing sight. Things to Do - Visit Sitka RELATED: Take An Ultimate Charter Fishing Trip In Alaska. "We are excited to be rolling out this fully re-envisioned guide," said Rachel Roy, Executive Director at Visit Sitka. Ludvig's Bistro is located at 256 Katlian St, Sitka, AK 99835. The trail is about 10miles west of Sitka and is only accessible by boat, so youll have to charter aboat and be comfortable with wilderness hiking. This is definitely a great place to visit if you want to safely observe bears in a learning environment. Find your way to Beaver Lake through the woods from Sitka on a well-marked trail. Surrounded by rainforest, we share our home with brown bears, bald eagles & all five species of Pacific salmon. Its quite popular, and youll find the Herring Cove parking area crowded on the weekends. Anice one-mile loop trail winds through the parkits agood place to stretch your legs. Dr. Sheldon Jackson who was a Presbyterian missionary who made annual trips to Alaska in the 1890s. 2-5 day small ship explorations. ), Popular Alaska Itineraries Using In-State Airlines, Anchorage to Denali National Park Driving Map, Denali National Park Campgrounds & RV Parks. The Alaska Raptor Center rehabilitates injured birds and releases them back into the wild. Sitka is also home to a wide selection of oceanfront lodges that offer fishing charters. more, Starting from the Baranof Street trailhead, its about 2miles up to 2,400feet! Theres a wide variety of wildlife viewingcruises to choose from including large and small catamaran tours, private yachts, private charters, sailboats, and zodiacs. Sleeps 10 4 bedrooms 2 bathrooms. We'll match you with a local itinerary expert to help you plan your trip. St. Michael's Cathedral in Downtown Sitka. Twenty-two of Sitkas buildings are listed in the National Register of Historic Places. This tour is not suitable for children under the age of 10. The U.S. Forest Service manages the area, andthe SFAC offers summer camps, year-round programs and Join us! This unique working artist studio provides a one-on-one experience for visitors to understand master Alaska Native artists and their traditions. As one of the larger ports in southeast Alaska, Sitka offers everything from campgrounds to first-class, full-service hotels. Southeast Conference. This world is alive, dont forget it. . Native Americans tell the stories of their culture through dance and gesture as well as talking candidly to guests about their traditions. Its an interpretive trail with aself-guided brochure, and youll travel through prime examples of the dominant forest ecosystems in the area: forest and muskeg. Youll look eagles in the eye at this raptor rehab and education center on the edge of Tongass National Forest. Set sail on a private yacht under the supervision of an experienced licensed captain. Its popular with locals and state ferry travelers, since it can be linked via trail to the ferry terminal, the Forest and Muskeg Trail, and the Estuary LifeTrail. Among them is a truly unique paddle out to a series of pre-WWII bunkers where the intrepid can explore secret passages, munitions and artillery depots, and a multi-story underground complex. The three-quarter acre habitat next to Tongass National Forest, gives visitors the chance to observe the bears living here from only 25 feet away. Many people choose to rent an apartment or camp while staying in Sitka, however, there are several options for hotel accommodation as well. Our travel recommendations are based on our personal experiences and research, written by locals and travel experts with deep familiarity with the destination. Sitka is an island community boldly living between the mountains and sea, where the arts flourish and an ancient native culture still thrives. Last time I visited the tour lasted about 30 minutes. Edgecumbe Photo. $. award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert Cruise Ship: Sitka is a very popular Alaskan cruise destination, and in the high season ships stop at the port daily. 1. A Russian Orthodox Church found at Lincoln and Matsoutoff Streets in Sitka city is renowned for being the earliest Orthodox cathedral in the New World. Digital Visitors' Guide Library - Visit Sitka From unparalleled wilderness . Alaska Tour & Travel uses cookies to track your trip selections and favorites. The lighthouse books up far in advance so make sure to plan your trip early if you want to stay in this incredible spot. 46. Enter our Snapshot Sitka photo contest with your scenic, outdoor, wildlife or other awesome snapshots. It is one mile end to end on the main drag of Lincoln Street, Hiking trailheads can be reached from downtown without issue, Free shuttle from the cruise terminal (leaving every 10-15 minutes). Look for marine wildlife on your way to aunique float house in asmall, protected bay where youll kayak across shimmeringwater. Other attractions explore the natural wonders of the area. Edgecumbe. 52. Hours are Wednesday to Saturday, 10am-2pm. We share stories and experiences that are lively, adventurous, and uniquely Sitkan. If you make it to these peaks, youll be rewarded with big views and abeautiful alpine environment. This is a favorite for cruisers stopping in port for the day. This is abeautiful hike in June and July, when the alpine wildflowers are at their peak. Summer is the best time for whale watching but the mammals can be seen any time of year. Sitka Visitor Information Centers | ALASKA.ORG Engulfed by morning fog, we eerily approached our destination, unseen before us. Sign-up for any of the following email series to help plan your Alaska trip. Learn More >, With a mild maritime climate and abundant "liquid sunshine," this coastal region's many fjords, glaciers, and charming ports of call draw a million summertime cruise passengers. It . If you want to get out of town for a couple of days, a camping trip in Starrigavan Recreation Area is a good choice to explore the great outdoors in Sitka. This road was originally built during World War II to provide access for military installations. This trail is close to town and starts on afloodplain. Cruises and land tours are great ways to see Alaska. Alaska State Troopers have identified the five people on a fishing charter boat that capsized in rough weather in the sea off Sitka as four visitors from Hawaii and California, and a local. Trip Planning Help . Renting a Car: While the center of town is very walkable, if you're staying a few days, renting a car is ideal! See the totems up close, standing right next to them to admire the intricate artwork. In . On an island amid towering spruce and hemlock, this park preserves the site of a battle between invading Russian traders and indigenous Kicks.di Tlingit. Hike, fish, kayak and explore the pristine landscape of Sitka Sound, teeming with life. Insider tips to pick the best Alaska cruise. Highlights plus less visited destinations. Alaska Visitors Guide 2023 (Opens in new window) Celebrating Nurses . We saw salmon jumping out of the water, starfish and sea urchin during our kayak trip, and we ended with warm cider and chowder. To see all types of salmon and other fish, head to the Arched Bridge; at the glacially carved inlet of Redoubt Bay you can also spot fish, as well as whales, seals, and sea otters. The Sitka, Alaska Travel Guide - Everything You Need To Know . She is a karaoke wunderkind, natural born storyteller and creative writer. Ocean fishing charters offer world-class salmon and halibut fishing. 1. The beauty of Alaska awaits. All-inclusive meals and activities. Well, there ya go. Our picks for the best tours and experiences during your Alaska Cruise. Sitka's 13,000-visitor day was 'far too many,' mayor says Visit a glacier in Juneau, ride a narrow-gauge train in Skagway, go fishing in Ketchikan, and find plenty more fun among Alaska's Inside Passage ports of call. The house has been restored to the 1850s historic period when it functioned as a school, bishop's residence, and a chapel. A comfy bed, plenty of room to spread out, a full kitchen, and located right in Sitka's downtown, we were able to walk to everywhere in town that we wanted to go to. Looking for more? Privately owned small airplane charters can be taken to fly over and around Baranof Island. Car, train, or group tour. If you are interested in the native sea life and want to learn more about research I think this may be the place for you. Fourteen. Find how many days you need based on what you want to see and do in Alaska. Paddle out to see it all on a sea kayaking tour you won't soon forget. This is Sitka Discover this unique Alaskan town, where the fish is fresh, culture is celebrated and wilderness beckons steps from your door. The blend of Russian and Tlingit past gives the city a unique feel, steeped in history it is also the place where the transfer ceremony took place after the US purchased Alaska from the Russians. Some trips even include time for fishing! Meeting spaces Book with the locals!ALASKA & YUKON TOURS is Juneau's only 100% local, 100% year round travel agency. Looking for a unique adventure? In Sitka, we are deeply connected to the natural world around us. There are 22 buildings in Sitka on the National Register of Historic Places including the Russian Blockhouse, Russian Bishop's House, Princess Maksoutoffs Grave, and Baranof Castle State Historic Site to name a few, so theres plenty of history to explore on a walk through town. Behind the center you will find a small nature trail which gives you a chance to enjoy the area following your visit. The Sitka Fine Arts Camp (SFAC) is a nationally acclaimed summer long program that serves approximately 1,000 students each year from Alaska and throughout the world. Harbor Mountain Trailhead can take you to the summit of Harbor Mountain, but you have to drive up to 1,800feet. The Aspen Suites Hotel is Sitka's newest hotel which opened in 2017 located in the heart of downtown. This epic 2-3 week event marks the beginning of spring and Equinox offers private adventure cruises based out of historic Sitka, Alaska. There are 14 miles of road in Sitka, Alaska. With wildlife, islands, and WWII history, the waters around Sitka make for a fascinating exploration by kayak. JEDC Southeast Cluster Initiative. A zoom camera lens - You'll need it for the wildlife! In the mid-1800s there were 3 cottages at Goddard that were used to house invalids from Sitka. PIN IT FOR LATER AND SHARE IT WITH OTHERS! You can see native totem poles from all over Alaska and historic influences from both the native Tlingit people and the Russian fur hunters. #brownbear #sitka #sitkaalaska #visitsitka #alaska #alaskalife #alaskaadventure #alaskaphotography #alaskaliving #alaskaadventures #alaskasummer #explore #nature #wildlife #wildlifephotography #bear #alaskabears #naturephotography #optoutside #peoplewhoexplore #peoplewhoadventure #getoutside #outdoortones #adventure #adventureawaits #boatlife #visitalaska #mountains #exploremore #adventurer, Boats and mountains Prices start at $240 for four people and an additional $60 per person (up to 20 people) after that. It is one of southeast Alaska's only communities on the outer shores of the Inside Passage. Experience one of the worlds most incredible assemblies of marine wildlife: humpback whales, sea lions, harbor seals, sea otters and busy seabird rookeries. 7. The Politkofsky was, therefore, underpowered, slow, clumsy and unfit for open water. more. The best time to visit Alaska, whether by land or via a cruise, is summer because it tends to have the fairest weather. A glimpse of the Tongass National Forest captured on 35mm film It also travels past totem poles and memorial sites, including that of the 1804 Battle of Sitka. Free personal GPSdriven travel guide to Alaska. Perched over downtown is Baranof Castle State Historic Site, originally a stronghold of the Kiks.di Tlingit clan. This trek is a 4.5 mile round trip and in that time you gain 2550 feet of elevation - which translates to quite a vertical climb. The most intimate multi-day cruise option. The Museum Shop also offers authentic Alaska Native handcrafted artwork along with publications related to the Museums collections. The Fortress of the Bear is a nonprofit education and rescue center with a three-quarter acre habitat for orphaned black and brown bear cubs. Inspire your imagination. I found there is plenty to do in this Alaskan sea side town, here are my top 15 things to do in Sitka. . Refresh your spirit. 3900 Arctic Blvd, Ste 304 #alaska #tongassnationalforest #sitka #visitsitka #summer #naturephotography #canonphotography #southeastalaska #forest #mountains #ocean, Docks at Blue Hour, taken last evening Visit Sitka HIking Harbor Mountain, overviewing Sitka and Mt. Address:404 Sawmill Creek Road, Sitka, AK 99835-7446. Visit Sitka HIking Harbor Mountain, overviewing Sitka and Mt. 2-5 day small ship explorations. Inside the cathedral however, you will still find artifacts, paintings and icons that were saved from the fire. Sign-up for any of the following email series to help plan your Alaska trip. [{"slug":"sitka","title":"Sitka"},{"slug":"juneau","title":"Juneau"}], [{"slug":"sitka","title":"Sitka"},{"slug":"juneau","title":"Juneau"},{"slug":"tongass-national-forest","title":"Tongass National Forest"}], Campgrounds, RV Parks & Public Use Cabins. . 15 Things To Do In Sitka: Complete Guide Beyond The Fishing - TheTravel Folks looking for a longer stay will enjoy the solitude and tranquility of nature, and will likely want to take it slow on hiking trails and outdoor pursuits. more. That's it! Southeast Alaska Tourism Council. #sitka #kayaking #visitsitka #alaska, Behold the majestic This is agreat place to take the kids and keep an eye open for grayling in the lake. Arts and Culture in Alaska's Inside Passage, Ive decided its much more relaxing to see a brown bear from the boat than it is to see them blocking your hiking trail home No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission. Watch fishing boats come and go, have apicnic at one of the covered shelters, or go tidepooling with the kids. Monthly travel tips, highlights, and savings! One of the many beautiful totems you'll find in Sitka National Historical Park. The 113-acre park was established in 1890 and is the oldest. From Alaska Natives to Russians, Sitka boasts a rich history and a fascinating blend of cultures. The museum has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1972. Sitka, Alaska was truly one of the most beautiful places I've visited. The Reverend Dr. Sheldon Jackson recognized the importance of saving cultural objects for the benefit of future generations, from Alaska Native watercraft to tools, equipment, clothing, and ceremonial objects such as masks.