What to Do in Ketchikan Alaska in One Day: Perfect Cruise Itinerary
Visiting Ketchikan for the First Time? Here’s the Perfect 8-Hour Plan for Summer 2025
Wondering what to do in Ketchikan Alaska in one day? Whether you’re stepping off a cruise ship or on a short visit, you can still enjoy the best of Ketchikan in just 8 hours — no stress, no guesswork.
This local-approved itinerary blends Alaska’s legendary fishing with downtown’s history, food, and scenic photo stops. It’s designed for first-time visitors who want to make the most of every hour.
Hours 1–4: Start With a Fishing Charter
Start your adventure with what Ketchikan is famous for — world-class salmon and halibut fishing. Our private, cruise-friendly charters get you on the water quickly with guides who know exactly where to fish.
What to Expect:
4-hour private fishing charter with a licensed USCG captain
Target King or Coho salmon, plus bottom-fish for halibut
All gear included
No experience needed — perfect for all ages
Covered cabin boats and kid-friendly equipment
Learn more about our cruise ship Ketchikan fishing charters.
After your trip, we’ll walk you to our trusted fish processor to have your catch filleted, vacuum-sealed, and flash-frozen for shipping or flying home.
Learn more about shipping your fish home from Ketchikan Alaska here.
Hour 5: Eat at the Best Restaurants in Ketchikan for Lunch
Fishing works up an appetite, so your next stop is a hearty local lunch.
Local Favorites:
The Alaska Fish House: Located right by the harbor, this spot is famous for its halibut tacos, clam chowder, and wild salmon dishes—all sourced from local waters. Snag a seat by the windows or on the deck for waterfront views of fishing boats and floatplanes landing on Tongass Narrows.
108 Tap House & Burger Bar: A local favorite for gourmet burgers and its rotating selection of Alaska craft beers. Try the “Kodiak Burger” with house-made pickles, or pair your meal with a pint from Denali Brewing.
Both restaurants are just steps from the cruise dock.
Hour 6: Explore Creek Street + Local Shops in Ketchikan
Next on your list of what to do in Ketchikan Alaska in one day is exploring historic Creek Street. Once Ketchikan’s “red-light district,” its colorful wooden boardwalks and stilted buildings now house artisan shops, galleries, and museums.
What to Check Out:
The salmon ladder: In mid-July through early September, you can watch thousands of salmon fighting their way upstream. The sight of fish leaping from pool to pool is unforgettable.
Dolly House Museum: A preserved home of the town’s most famous madam, this quirky museum gives a fascinating (and slightly scandalous) glimpse into Ketchikan’s past.
Caribou Creek & The Rain Barrel: The most authentic gift shops in Ketchikan if you’re looking for Alaska & Indigenous made art & jewelry.
Hour 7: Totems, Whale Park, and Iconic Photo Spots
Continue your walking tour with some of Ketchikan’s cultural highlights:
Chief Johnson Totem Pole: Carved by renowned artist Israel Shotridge in 1989, is a faithful replica of the original 1901 totem that eventually succumbed to time and weather.
This striking pole depicts the Raven Clan’s legend of Fog Woman, a powerful story tied to the creation of salmon, with the mythical Kadjuk bird perched proudly at its top.
Whale Park: A great place to enjoy some flowers and Chief Kyan Totem Pole. It’s a beautifully carved sculpture by Tlingit carvers that features traditional figures such as Raven, Thunderbird, and a mythical Killer Whale—elements that represent clan stories and regional heritage
“Welcome to Ketchikan” Sign: Stretched across Mission Street, this sign is one of Ketchikan’s most iconic landmarks. Stand on the crosswalk and snap your photo with the sign, the harbor, and the mountains in the background. It’s a great selfie spot!
Hour 8: Rain Gauge, The Rock & Thundering Wings at Eagle Park
Before returning to your cruise ship, explore the cultural and historical landmarks near the dock:
The Famous Ketchikan Rain Gauge: This quirky landmark shows off the town’s annual rainfall—often over 150 inches. It’s a must-snap photo spot and a reminder of Ketchikan’s lush, rain-soaked landscape in front of the visitor’s center.
The Rock Statue: Created by local artist Dave Rubin and unveiled on July 4, 2010, this bronze monument depicts the people who built Ketchikan’s legacy—fishermen, loggers, miners, and Indigenous leaders.
Thundering Wings at Eagle Park: At the entrance to the tunnel, alongside Cruise Ship Dock 3, you’ll find this striking eagle totem pole carved by Ketchikan’s own Nathan Jackson. Its name, “Thundering Wings,” comes from the Tlingit word Kitschk-Hin, believed to be the origin of “Ketchikan,” meaning “thundering wings of an eagle.”
These stops give you one last chance to connect with Ketchikan’s rich history and culture—perfect for photos and reflection before you board.
Quick Recap: What to Do in Ketchikan Alaska in One Day
Hours 1–4: Private salmon & halibut fishing charter — catch, clean, and prep your fish for shipping.
Hour 5: Lunch at The Alaska Fish House (famous for halibut tacos) or 108 Tap House & Burger Bar (gourmet burgers and local brews).
Hour 6: Explore historic Creek Street, watch the salmon ladder, and tour Dolly’s House Museum.
Hour 7: Visit the Chief Johnson Totem Pole, stroll Whale Park with the Chief Kyan Totem, and grab a photo under the Welcome to Ketchikan sign.
Hour 8: Stop by the Ketchikan Rain Gauge, see The Rock statue, and admire the Thundering Wings totem at Eagle Park before returning to the cruise dock.
FAQs for Ketchikan Fishing Charters for First-Time Visitors
Yes, especially during peak season (July–September).
- Expert USCG licensed captain/ Alaska Sportfishing guide
- All fishing gear, tackle, and bait (included in combination Wildlife + Fishing Tour)
- Water, soda and snacks
- Coast Guard approved safety equipment
- Enclosed cabin with porta-potty and privacy curtain
- Delivery of catch to fish processor to ship your fish home
Absolutely. The itinerary is designed for cruise ship schedules.
Yes, we work with a licensed processor who handles everything. You can learn more about shipping your fish home from Alaska here.
Layered clothing, non-slip shoes, and a rain jacket! Remember, you can always shed your layers depending on the weather.
Book Your Ketchikan Fishing Charter Today!
The ultimate answer to what to do in Ketchikan Alaska in one day? Start with a fishing charter, enjoy local eats, and explore the best sights within walking distance.
Book your Ketchikan fishing charter today!
Contact Ketchikan Fishing Company
Check out our Ketchikan Salmon Fishing Charters
