Sitka, Alaska is one of those special places that few cruise ships visit. If you carefully choose your Alaska cruise to include Sitka and wonder what to do there, here are the 21 best things to do in one day in Sitka. This guide is especially helpful for first-time visitors.
Take it from someone who recently lived there. Sitka is small, really small, and you don’t need to purchase a shore excursion from your ship to see what’s there.
You’ll find that there are plenty of excursions that you can arrange to do on your own. Even if you wait til the last minute, shore excursion operators are lined up at Centennial Hall, where the port-to-town bus ends. Or you can simply walk through Sitka using a map you’ll receive at the dock.
21 Things to Do in Sitka, Alaska in One Day
The hardest decision to make when you only have a short time to spend, is to decide what to do with only one day in Sitka. Do you want an expensive shore excursion or a day on your own to wander this sleepy, artsy, fish-forward city loaded with history and nature?
There are so many things to do in Sitka that you’ll probably want to return again as soon as possible.
Did you watch the movie, “The Proposal”? Spoiler alert: The movie was almost entirely filmed in Massachusetts, not Sitka. Even the downtown scene wasn’t shot in Sitka. But there are clips here and there so watch the movie before and after your cruise.
DON’T MISS: Sitka Cruise Port Guide: Getting Around Map
A Little Sitka History
Sitka has a 10,000 year-old history that began when Tlingit Indians settled in Southeast Alaska. Once the capital of Russian America in 1808, Sitka was the site of the Alaska Purchase on March 30, 1867. That’s when the United States bought Alaska from the Russians for $7.2 million.
Located on the western side of Baranof Island, Sitka sits at open water on the Pacific Ocean. There’s a rich and diverse heritage that’s clear as soon as you disembark your cruise ship.
Where Your Ship Will Dock – How to Get into Town
Most likely your large ship will dock about 6 miles north from town at what the locals call the Old Sitka Dock. It was recently renamed Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal. There’s a complimentary shuttle bus that runs back and forth about every 10 minutes to the center of town.
If your smaller ship tenders in Sitka Sound, it’s only a five-minute boat ride into town at a great location.
It’s a small downtown, but not lacking in places to shop, eat, and see. You won’t find Sitka streets crammed with 12,000 cruise ship tourists and you won’t see those familiar Caribbean jewelry stores or over-crowded tourist bars.
Instead, locally-owned shops line the main street. Look for beautiful Alaskan artwork and stop for a banana split at the old-fashioned Harry Race Pharmacy and Soda Shop. Bring home hand-made knitted woolen apparel or a box of artisan chocolates or sea salt.
Not all Alaska Inside Passage cruises make a port call at Sitka. The location is somewhat outside of cruise ship traffic patterns. In 2018, fewer than 160 ships visited Sitka from mid-May to very early October. Most days there was only one ship in town. On days when there were two or three ships docked and anchored, they were smaller ships.
In 2022, the town of less than 8,000 year-round residents expects close to 480,000 cruise ship passengers to arrive.
Ready to hit the ground running?
Best Things to Do in Sitka, Alaska
1. Tour Sitka in an “Old-Fashioned” Checkered Cab!
Jeff Budd has lived in S.E. Alaska for over three decades and has been involved in Alaska tourism for over two decades. You can arrange a private tour with Jeff with his Sitka Checkered Tours and he’ll meet you at the cruise terminal. Then you’re off to see as many Sitka highlights as possible, with Jeff behind the wheel.
2. Fortress of the Bear
It’s a scenic five mile drive from downtown Sitka to this three-quarter acre bear rescue center. Run by bear-loving volunteers, visitors get a view from above of the bears in a natural habitat. There are half-hour guided tours that offer insight into the history of the rescue center.
The guide will point out and name each of the bears and their individual personalities. Before you leave, stop by the gift shop – proceeds go to the rescue center.
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What to Do in Downtown Sitka
3. Walk up Baranof Castle Hill
Castle Hill is significant in Alaska history. Here once stood an important and strategic fortification built by the Tlingit Natives. Following the Russian massacre of the Tlingits, they occupied this site from 1804-1867.
It was at the top of Castle Hill in 1867 that the transfer of Alaska from Russia to the United States took place. Today, there is a wide, accessible walkway that leads to the top or take the more challenging stairway. The view from the top, especially at sunset, provides a beautiful overlook of Sitka Sound. It’s worth the climb to also see the 450-foot long cable-stayed bridge over the channel.
READ NEXT: Sitka, Alaska Port Profile and City Guide
4. St. Michael’s Cathedral
This Russian Orthodox cathedral is a replica of the original church building built in 1848 and destroyed by a fire in 1966. St. Michael’s Cathedral requests a donation if you want to enter the church. It’s used to repair and maintain the structure.
READ NEXT: My Holland America Eurodam Review on Alaska Inside Passage Cruise
5. Sitka Historical Museum
Run by the Sitka Historical Society, the Sitka History Museum is a treasure trove of over 8,000 artifacts, hundreds of works of art and thousands of historic photos that showcase the early days of Sitka. You could spend hours in this small museum learning about Tlingit, Russian and American history through the incredible collections of everything early Sitka.
6. Russian Bishop’s House
One of the few remaining buildings of Russian colonial architecture in North America, the log house was completed in 1842. It was home to the Russian Orthodox Church that presided over an area from California to Kamchatka in Siberia for over 125 years.
After the Bishop’s House closed in 1969, it was purchased by the National Park Service and restored to how it would have looked in 1853. It’s interesting to step inside and see how people lived during the time of Russian-America.
RELATED: My 12 Favorite Things to Do in Ketchikan, Alaska
A Short Walk from Downtown Sitka
7. Sheldon Jackson State Museum
When the Rev. Dr. Sheldon Jackson decided to build a museum to display his collection of Alaskan artifacts, little could he have imagined it would end up on the National Register of Historical Places in 1972. Not only is the Sheldon Jackson Museum the oldest museum in Alaska, it’s also the first concrete building in the state.
Inside, visitors can view contains the museum’s collection of objects from each of Alaska’s Native groups including Tlingit, Haida, Tsimshian, Aleut, Alutiiq, Yup’ik, Inupiat and Athabascan.
8. Sitka Sound Science Center
As their mission statement says, they’re “dedicated to increasing understanding and awareness of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems of Alaska through education and research”. Visitors can explore the Molly O. Ahlgren aquarium and reach into the touch tanks and feel some of the sea creatures that inhabit tidal pools.
Listen to whale songs and view enormous whale bones from a killer whale. The Sheldon Jackson Hatchery is salmon hatchery under the auspices of the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. There’s a gift shop, too.
9. Sitka National Historical Park
Still walking distance from downtown, Totem Park is the main attraction at the 107-acre Sitka National Historical Park. It’s also Alaska’s oldest national park. It is the site of the final battle of 1804 between the Tlingit and Russians.
There’s something for everyone here. Join a ranger-led interpretive walk and hear about the history of the Tlingit and the beautiful totem poles. Stop in the Visitor’s Center and get up to speed on the park’s history, Tlingit and Haida cultures and watch a short film about the park’s history.
10. Alaska Raptor Center
Definitely a must-see. The Raptor Center rehabilitates injured birds of prey from across Alaska including eagles, hawks, falcons and owls. The goal of the Raptor Center is to reintroduce injured birds back into the wild. Sadly, many cannot be released and will live out their lives at this facility.
There’s a 20,000 square-foot flight training center where you can watch eagles fly right past, behind a glass barrier. View birds that are brought here from all over Alaska. Stop in the gift shop where you’re sure to find something unique to bring home.
11. Pioneer Home
Located at the corner of Lincoln and Katlian streets, this stately building was once a log barracks built by the Russians in the 1800s. Now the Sitka Pioneer Home is an assisted living facility. Walk through the beautifully manicured gardens in front of the Home and be sure to visit the gift shop. Take a look in the shop for Alaska arts and crafts souvenirs made by the residents.
Have a Drink with the Locals
12. Pioneer Bar (do NOT ring the bell!)
Pioneer Bar is a real local hangout. Tourists beware. If you ring the bell, you’ll end up buying drinks for every customer in the bar.
13. Harry’s Soda Shop
This is probably my favorite place in Sitka. Harry’s Soda Shop is located in the middle of downtown on Lincoln Street, in the same building as Harry Race Pharmacy. You really should allow a little time for an afternoon ice cream. Then, after your treat, shop for Alaska-made souvenirs. Plus, there’s a camera and equipment shop the back of the Harry’s and the pharmacy store.
14. Highliner Coffee
Finally, for a late afternoon pick-me-up including fresh-baked pastries, head over to Highliner Coffee. In kind of an odd location, you’ll find Highliner in a small strip mall, next to the fire station on Seward Street.
Where to Go Shopping in Sitka
15. Alaska Pure Sea Salt
What started as an accidental salt creation when a pan of sea water was left out all night on a stove, has become a fast-growing entrepreneurial business in Sitka. Have a taste of the different salt flavors, but bring home a packet of their Alder Smoked Sea Salt. Located on Lincoln Street.
16. Old Harbor Books and Back Door Café
Also with their main entrance on Lincoln Street, Old Harbor Books has that certain book store smell that you just don’t find much very often. Through a walkway at the back of the store is the aptly-named Back Door Café. Seems like a throwback to the 1960s. It’s a very inviting, totally laid-back coffee house. Buy a book and go to the café and relax for a hour before you head back to the ship.
17. Chocolate Moose
You may not need any more caffeine, but you can always use a bite of homemade chocolate. But just in case, Chocolate Moose also has espresso.
Where to Eat in Sitka
There really is a Sitka culinary scene and it’s not to be missed. Don’t leave without indulging in a meal. With fresh seafood at their doorstep year-round, it practically jumps out of the water and onto your plate. I think the people of Sitka have created at least four million ways to prepare salmon!
18. Beak Restaurant
Located on your left as you walk towards the harbor, enjoy a meal at Beak on their covered patio. For something really different, order the fried salmon skin.
19. Little Tokyo Sushi
Seriously good sushi at this downtown shop. All types of working locals were heading in on their lunch break so I decided to try it. It’s not Jiro Dreams of Sushi, but for a local, friendly sushi place, it’s fine.
20. Mean Queen in the Totem Square Hotel and Marina
The restaurant is in the peach-colored building with the red roof, all the way on the right in the photo. Freshly cooked you-know-what plus a really good seafood chowder. It’s the view from your table on the patio that completes the picture.
Last but not least…
21. Sitka Airport Diner – Nugget Restaurant
On my first visit, I had no clue what to do in Sitka. From its beautiful national parks and cultural and science museums to locally-made arts and crafts galleries and wildlife encounters, you’ll want to revisit again.
Maybe it’s the arts scene and the un-touristy vibe. For whatever reason, Sitka somehow gets under your skin and calls you to return.
I hope my list of the best things to do in Sitka, Alaska help you to appreciate this wonderful little town at the edge of the Pacific.
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I’m the editor and creator of CruiseMaven.com, a solo traveler cruising the world on waves and wheels, collecting recipes along the way. I hope my articles and photos entertain, advise and inspire you to travel the world without flying. Take a breath…stop for a local meal and a glass of wine along the way.
Sherry Laskin says
Hi Robin,
Thank you for reading my Sitka article – I’m excited your ship will visit Sitka. The bridge that connects Sitka on Baranof Island to Japonski Island is definitely walkable with a sidewalk on one side. No, the bridge is not in the National Park. The bridge begins at the end of downtown Sitka and if you walk across, you’ll have fabulous views of the city and its mountains, from the half-way point.
Once you’ve crossed the John O’Connell bridge, there’s nothing to do except walk along the waterfront next to the high school. It’s a nice picnic spot, actually, and I’ve done that several times. The Sitka Airport, Coast Guard Station and Searhc hospital (yes, that’s how it’s spelled yet pronounced “Search”) are also on Japonski. But the bridge is a really nice walk. Be careful when crossing the bridge at the mid-point…sometimes cars go a little too fast
Tours in Sitka also include kayaking, fishing, and other water activities. Most other activities require some walking, as in the National Historical Park. Unless you take a trail hike, everything is level.
I hope this info is helpful. Enjoy your cruise and your visit to this very unique and quirky town that I called “home” for a year and a half. Thank you again for your comment.
Robin says
Our ship offers excursions in Sitka but it looks as if I can see it all just by walking? Is the Arched Bridge in the National Park and can you walk to Japonski Island?
Sherry Laskin says
Hi Mark, Thank you for reading my article and taking the time to ask your question. To the best of my knowledge, totem poles aren’t exactly for sale. They are usually done on a commissioned basis and can cost thousands of dollars. You are on the right track, though, with museums and parks. I also suggest that you contact the Sitka National Historical Park and also the one in Ketchikan. During tourist season, there might be a resident totem pole carver with whom you could arrange a commissioned piece. Otherwise, there are locally owned shops throughout Alaska that sell locally made Tlingit and Haida art. They might have a totem pole for sale. I wish you luck in finding a carver or an already-carved totem and getting it home. Thank you again for taking the time to ask your question – I apologize for not being able to supply a concrete answer.
Mark Neuman says
Could you suggest a few places where I could see a selection and buy a totem pole, say approx 1.5-2.5 M in length, with traditional design, not animation/Disney style.
Time is so limited on a holiday tour that we need to target likely vendors and ask them for photos in advance after checking the parks & museums.
Thank you
Mark Neuman
Sherry Laskin says
Hi D,
Thank you so much for taking the time to read through my Sitka article. It was a labor of love to write it and sort through all of my photos. Here’s what I recommend…For starters, I highly recommend Jeff Budd and his Sitka Checkered Tours. He’s been a Sitka and Alaska resident for decades and knows everyone and everything about the town and attractions. He’ll work with you to plan exactly the day that you’d like. Usually he’ll head out to Fortress of the Bear, stop by Whale Park, then over to the Raptor Center. Then you could be dropped off at the Sitka Sound Science Center and walk back to town with stops at the Historical Park, Ernie’s and maybe a grilled halibut lunch one of the two downtown food trucks. Just a few businesses past Earnie’s is the Chocolate Moose and across the street from Ernie’s is Alaska Pure Salt.
Occasionally, the trail through the Historical Park is closed due to bear activity but you can still go to the Museum there.
Sitka has notoriously horrible taxi service (maybe it’ll improve next year) but the bus service is really good. You really don’t need to take the bus though, unless walking is not the best for either of you. Sitka is super small and once you’ve driven with Jeff, you’ll have seen the outlying attractions. And no, I don’t get a “cut” from sending people to Jeff! He’s just excellent at what he does and who doesn’t want to be chauffeured around town in a vintage Checkered cab!
Thank you for writing and reading my Sitka post. Have a wonderful day in port and enjoy your cruise!
D says
We are planning a cruise for 2022 with a full day in Sitka. Do you have any suggestions about getting around in Sitka? Would it be better to take a cab or the city bus out to the Bears? We want to visit the Bears, Whale Park, Eagles, Science Center, National Park and Ernies Old Time Saloon for the best Duck Fart in Alaska! With stops to get some Sitka chocolate and salt. Thank you for your suggestions.
Sherry Laskin says
Hi again! I just saw this note and thanks again for writing. A lot of what is at the Old Sitka Dock is some of the same souvenir stuff that you’ll find in town. That said, there are some wonderful stores for jewelry and native items. If you want a really gorgeous souvenir locally carved, go to Galanin and Klein downtown. One of the owners carves incredible silver bracelets/cuffs. They are pricey but amazing. Also, go across the street to The Cellar (the only “nice” clothing store in town, IMO). Be sure to stop for an ice cream at Harry Race Pharmacy. I’m starting to get homesick! Again, have a wonderful cruise!
Becky Hobson says
Thanks for the history & recommendations. My husband is not big on taking any time to shop on vacations. I like to bring home gifts & souvenirs. Therefore I appreciate the shopping advice! I have to do my research in advance, try to get an idea of what shops are there & what I might want & be prepared!
Sherry Laskin says
Thank you for your comment. Yes, the Alaskan Sea Salt shop is unique and Fortress of the Bears is an excellent rescue facility.
Sherry
Waller says
Sitka a beautiful place. the amazing thing about Sitka is Bears rescue center,They all are natural habitat.Another thing about the Sitka is the entrepreneurial business of salt.