Sitka, Alaska

About Sitka, Alaska

Sitka is a small yet lively town in Southeast Alaska that is full of surprises. Just when you think that you have seen all there is to see in this remote city, you stumble upon something that will instantly catch your attention. This is the case for the best restaurants and a few of the premier shopping outlets. They simply spring up out of nowhere, making for an interesting and exciting stay.

There are a couple of great museums, and the scuba diving and sea kayaking in Sitka is marvelous. The calm, protected waters make these two sports very popular among both tourists and locals.

Much of the land in Sitka is protected, further adding to the glorious experience of touring the city. The Sitka National Historical Park is a wonderful place to spend an afternoon or even longer, and the scenery is wonderfully picturesque. The hiking trails are great. In Sitka, your eyes will be opened to one of the top wonders of the world.

From an historical point of view, Sitka is perhaps the richest city in all of Alaska. The struggles and battles between the native Alaskans and the invading Russians proved to be an incredible story that will never be forgotten by either side.

In the 18th century, Russian soldiers enslaved the Aleut people, but it was the Tlingits who came to their aid and battled the Russians. Eventually, many of the Aleuts went free, and the citizens of Sitka were able to maintain their freedom and way of life. Soon after, cultures blended and created a more subtle conflict in the region. In 1867, the United States purchased Alaska and the Russians left the state, but many of their customs remained.

Today Sitka is a warm and friendly place, full of aesthetic beauty and fun-filled sites. The inhabitants are typically a happy bunch, and are accustomed to treating tourists with the utmost respect and kindness. The old churches and cathedrals provide a glimpse into the past, and the rich heritage and fascinating sites add to the lure of this culturally diverse town.

Things To Do in Sitka, Alaska

St. Michael's Cathedral - Important collection of Russian Orthodox art and church treasures. Built in 1844-48, it was totally destroyed by fire in January 1966. Many of the icons and religious objects were salvaged and are in the rebuilt structure. Summer hours, open 9am-4pm on large cruise ship days, or check posted hours on the door. National Register of Historical Places.
Anb Hall - The Alaska Native Brotherhood building is a registered National Historic Landmark built in 1914. Located on Katlian Street in the heart of the traditional Tlingit village, it serves as an Alaska Native community center. National Register of Historical Places.
Sitka Pioneers Home - Built in 1934 on the old Russian Parade Ground, this is a state home for elderly Alaskans. Handicrafts made by the residents are sold in the gift shop located on the first floor. The pioneers welcome visitors. The 13-1/2 foot bronze statue standing in front of the Pioneers Home was made by Alonzo Victor Lewis and was dedicated on Alaska Day 1949. The model was a real pioneer--William "Skagway Bill" Fonda. National Register of Historical Places.
Castle Hill - (Baranof Castle Site) An Early stronghold of the Kiksadi clan. Later a succession of Russian buildings were erected on this site. The last one, known as "Baranof's Castle", was erected in 1837, and perished in a fire 1898. On October 18, 1867, it was the site of the transfer of Alaska to the United States. Each year, Alaska Day is still celebrated Oct. 18. This historical Site is managed by Alaska State Parks. National Register of Historical Places.
Isabel Miller Museum - Fall elements of Sitka's history converge in one place: The Isabel Miller Museum. Packed with displays, photographs and artifacts from Sitka's Tlingit, Russian and American history, the museum is a worth-while first stop. It provides a perspective for almost everything else the traveler will see during his/her stay. A gift shop which supports the museum includes many exclusives made only for the museum.
Archangel Dancers - Authentic Russian and Ukranian dances performed by local women in authentic costumes. They perform when cruise ships are in town (approx. May to September).
Sitka National Historic Park - The 107 acre park preserves and interprets the site of a Tlingit Indian Fort and the battle fought between the Russians and the Tlingits in 1804. A fine collection of Haida & Tlingit totem poles were moved there from the Louisiana Exposition in St. Louis in 1904, and in April, 1996, a totem carved by a local carver was raised. The museum contains an exhibit of Tlingit and Russian artifacts and also offers a historical movie. There is an active Tlingit arts program where the public can watch and talk to Native Indian artists.
Alaska Raptor Center - A pioneering wildlife project, the Raptor Center has for years proven that dedicated volunteer effort and innovative veterinary medicine can make a life-or-death difference on Alaska's raptors (birds of prey). The Center's goal is to release into the wild all rehabilitated birds, however, a few never recover flight and remain housed at the Center's outdoor display.
Whale Park - Dedicated in July 1995, Whale Park provides an opportunity to view wildlife (from the boardwalk), including humpback whales in the late fall and early spring months. The park is located about 6 miles south of downtown and has a small sheltered picnic area and free viewing scopes. A hydro phone is located in the main shelter area to listen to the "songs" of the humpback whales.
Japonski Island - WW II headquarters for military forces who served in Sitka. During WW II, Japonski Island was connected by a man-made causeway in the 1940's to the surrounding chain of islands which served as a location for bunkers and gunning sites. Though the bunkers and sites are not well preserved, they are accessible by boat. The island was connected to Sitka by the O'Connell Bridge in 1972. Presently, it is the site of a USCG Air Station and Boat Station, University of Alaska Southeast, Mt. Edgecumbe High School, Southeast Alaska Regional Health Center, and the Rocky Gutierrez Airport.

Optional Shore Excursions in Sitka, Alaska

Sea Otter & Wildlife Quest
You will have the opportunity to observe sea otters, whales, sea lions, porpoises, harbor seals, brown bears, black-tailed deer, bald eagles, and a variety of marine birds. You will be provided an onboard naturalist who will explain the workings of this remarkable ecosystem. While cruising, you will also learn about the sea otter population recovery, following their near-extinction at the hands of Russian fur hunters in the early 1800's. Upon return to Sitka, you will be dropped off downtown, minutes from the main shopping district and St. Michael's Cathedral. A ticket to the Cathedral is included in the price.
Semi-Submersible Sea Life Discovery
The waters of the north Pacific, including Sitka Sound, are some of the most productive in the world. See giant kelp forests and lush eelgrass beds that are home to numerous plant and animal species. Watch the sea floor teaming with life including fish, crabs, urchins, jellyfish, anemones, starfish, and plants. Have the M/V Sea Life Discovery provide the only tour opportunity available in the western U.S. for non-divers to experience the cold-water marine environment. Every M/V Sea Life Discovery tour includes a naturalist and a scuba diver. Be provided a trained, local naturalist who presents background information on the marine environment of Sitka Sound, providing commentary on sea life and answering questions.
Sitka Bike & Hike
This excursion will show you a magnificent section of Sitka that is rarely seen by visitors. You will be educated along the way as your excursion focuses on local history, lore, flora, and fauna with many photo opportunities. Be treated to an excellent view of an estuary in Starrigavin Meadow with a clear salmon stream running through it in season. Hike to Mosquito Cove on a 1- mile maintained loop trail through the largest temperate rainforest in the world, the Tongass.
Sitka Sportfishing
Join Coast Guard-licensed captains for a great day of sport fishing. Climb aboard a comfortable vessels, equipped with everything you need to go after "the big one". Your experienced captain will teach you how to fish for salmon. You can even have your catch cleaned on board; processed and shipped.
Wilderness Sea Kayaking Adventure
Get ready for a kayak adventure you will never forget. You will be transfered to a floating kayak base camp by motorized inflatables. Enjoy excellent views of Sitka and the surrounding mountains. After a short orientation you will board oceangoing, 2-person kayaks. Enjoy the beauty of the protected bays and inlets near Sitka from a serene, natural perspective. You will be lead by an experienced guide in groups of 4 to 6 kayaks. See colorful marine life, eagles swooping from the treetops and the lush rain forest. Watch out for brown bears, harbor seals, or Sitka black-tailed deer.

Additional Shore Excursions are available. Please call us toll free at 1-800-201-6937 for more information and reservations.

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Sitka, Alaska

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