The history of Ketchikan, Alaska dates back to 1883 when the first salmon saltery was built. Today, Ketchikan is known as the “Salmon Capital of the World” with a population of 14,500 residents. Ketchikan is located on Revillagigedo Island on the Tongass Narrows, surrounded by the Tongass National Forest. This Alaskan city is a historic community, built along the waterfront. Many of the colorful buildings are set on wooden pilings, adding greatly to the charm of this quaint coastal town.
Ketchikan sightseeing highlights include Creek Street (once a red light district), the bustling boat harbor and salmon canneries. Totem Bight State Historical Park is located 10 miles north of the city, where replicas of original totem poles have been carved and painted to reflect the rich culture of Southeast Alaska Natives. Ketchikan’s Heritage Center displays Alaska’s only collection of original totem poles plus a remarkable collection of contemporary Northwest Indian art, emphasizing the vibrant cultures of Native American Indians including the Tlingit, Haida and Tshimshian.
Day trips from Ketchikan include fishing charters, flightseeing trips to Misty Fjords National Monument, eagle and bear viewing and outdoor canoeing and jeep tours.