Thursday, April 11, 2024

Sitka, AK Things to Do, Recreation, & Travel Information

things to do in sitka alaska from cruise ship

Whether you’re searching for local crafts, gourmet treats, or something in between, every gift shop in Sitka offers a variety of unique souvenirs to remind you of your Alaskan adventure. Sitka Bay serves as an incredible backdrop for a variety of outdoor pursuits. Anglers will discover a variety of species in the bay, ranging from Salmon to Halibut. Kayaking routes weave through scenic waterways, making it a picture-perfect experience for both novice and experienced paddlers.

Sitka Sound Cruise & Sitka National Historical Park

The current block house was built by the National Park Service in 1962, in a location closer to downtown. This wooden tower is a faithful replica of one of the original Russian guard towers. The Russians, fearful of the native people, had already enclosed themselves inside a fortress with a massive stockade fence and guard towers, only open to outsiders during the day. Once the Tlingit returned to once again make their homes, this fortress effectively segregated the settlement into Russian and Tlingit sections. Located just off Kaagwaantaan Street (behind the Sheet’ka Kwaan Naa Kahidi Community House), the Russian Block House is an odd-looking squat wooden structure perched on a rock.

Viking Travel Inc

If you’re interested in Sitka’s time under the Russians, visit this old house, built in 1842 and refurbished by the National Park Service over a 16-year period. The Molly O. Ahlgren Aquarium showcases species that have been collected from the waters around Sitka, from eels to sea urchins and anemones. Kids can explore closer in the touch tanks, or sign up for a behind-the-scenes tour that teaches you about the work involved in running an aquarium. On a clear day, you’ll have views of Mt. Edgecumbe looming on the horizon.

Local Craftsmanship and Authentic Alaskan Goods

Sitka, like Skagway has a rich history, and both towns are great additions to an Alaska cruise. If you want to captain your own vessel, take to the waters in a zodiac from Sitka Zodiac Adventures. Steer your boat along the rugged Alaska coastline and beside commercial fishing trawlers as they pull in their daily catch. In the small aquarium, you can touch the critters in the tide tanks and learn about the area’s marine life. The Sitka Sound Science Center sits on the waterfront, and is dedicated to research and educating the public on marine ecosystems.

Things to Do in Sitka, Alaska in One Day

Navigating the town is easy and there is a lot to be seen lurking around every corner. As an added bonus, the landscape surrounding the town is breathtaking. One of the most heartwarming and enlightening experiences Sitka has to offer is a visit to the Fortress of the Bear. This is not just another wildlife sanctuary; it’s a refuge that rescues orphaned bear cubs and provides them with a safe, naturalistic habitat.

things to do in sitka alaska from cruise ship

Take a peaceful stroll along Totem Trail in Sitka National Historical Park

Top ways to avoid crowds on an Alaska cruise - Royal Caribbean Blog

Top ways to avoid crowds on an Alaska cruise.

Posted: Sat, 21 May 2022 07:00:00 GMT [source]

St. Michael’s Cathedral is a striking sight in the center of downtown Sitka, with its green domes and golden crosses perched atop a blue-gray wooden structure. St. Michael’s stands on the site of the original Russian Orthodox cathedral of the same name, which was destroyed by an accidental fire in 1966. Now a museum, the structure is notable for its architecture as well as its history.

Take a Checkered Cab Tour

Royal Caribbean Post Round-Up: June 5, 2022 - Royal Caribbean Blog

Royal Caribbean Post Round-Up: June 5, 2022.

Posted: Sun, 05 Jun 2022 07:00:00 GMT [source]

This is also the first place the US flag with 49 stars was raised after Statehood in 1959. Sitka Rose Gallery (419 Lincoln Street) occupies the charming Hanlon-Osbakken house, an 1890s Queen Anne located next to the Russian Bishop’s House. Included are bronze sculptures, whalebone and walrus tusk carvings, local bark and grass baskets, paintings, wood engravings, glass jewelry, and carved Tlingit and Haida totems. Mountain Miss (322 Lincoln Street) despite the name is an outdoor apparel shop for both men and women. They have a huge selection of items to help you stay warm and dry on the ship and during your shore excursions.

Search Underway for Missing Cruise Passenger in Mexico

Animal lovers will enjoy the rare opportunity to see bears, whales, and other wildlife in their native habitat. Your cruise ship will dock at the island’s Old Dock at Halibut Point, about five miles north of Sitka town. A free shuttle bus service runs between the dock and downtown Sitka every minutes.

I’ve tried quite a few (and paid for most on my own dime) and there aren’t any that were a disappointment. That said, everyone has different expectations but it’s hard to find anything to complain about on an Alaska shore excursion. Here are a few of my favorite “what to do in Sitka” shore excursions. If you’ve arranged a pre-paid shore excursion, you ticket will have the exact meeting place.

Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the many observation decks along the trail. To return to town, take the flat wooden staircase of the Gavan Hill Trail back to the marketplace on Baranof Street. A $5 entry fee allows you to explore the historic icons inside the church. A stroll down Lincoln Street will take you past some of Sitka’s most important landmarks.

This place tends to get very crowded when the big ships are in town, so plan on either an early or late lunch. The original Mean Queen is located on Harbor Drive, just before the bridge across Sitka Sound. The second and newer location is at Totem Square, across from Pioneer House, on Katlian. Bayview Pub – Upstairs in the building across from Centennial Hall on Lincoln Street. Also, one of the few places in town to get a Baranof Brew…beer made in Sitka. For a city with such a small, year-round population, where to eat in Sitka includes over a dozen restaurants and eateries.

Whether you’re in the mood for a picnic or just some tranquil moments by the water, this trail offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle. Harry’s Soda Shop is located in the middle of downtown on Lincoln Street, in the same building as Harry Race Pharmacy. Plus, there’s a camera and equipment shop the back of the Harry’s and the pharmacy store. Join a ranger-led interpretive walk and hear about the history of the Tlingit and the beautiful totem poles.

No comments:

Post a Comment

Top 90+ Mehndi Designs For Hands

Table Of Content Lines and dots Mehndi Design Chain Henna Design Simple Moon Mehndi Design For The Palm Easy Mehndi Design For Fingers Amazi...