Things to do in  Sitka

Yes, Sitka is absolutely worth visiting. Apart from its fascinating Tlingit-Russian-American history (commemorated at spots such as Sitka National Historical Park), there are fantastic hiking trails, world-class halibut fishing, great local shops, and wildlife encounters with bears and whales in the mountains or out at sea.

Sitka is famous for being Alaska’s historic hub—it was the capital of Alaska until 1906 and a prominent outpost for Russia. You can still see Russian architecture throughout town mingling with Tlingit totem poles and more modern American influences. It’s also famous for being one of Alaska’s busiest cruise ports.

Yes, Sitka is a highly walkable town—most people are cruise-ship visitors and don’t bother with a rental car. You’ll find many landmarks in and around downtown (near the port), plus restaurants, shops, and even a few hiking trails. Lincoln Street is the main thoroughfare, and you can walk to Sitka National Historical Park from downtown.

Yes, Sitka is walkable from the cruise port, which is basically right downtown. Many visitors not interested in tours decide to head out on foot and take in the town’s fascinating 10,000-year, multicultural history. Spots such as Sitka National Historical Park, St. Michael’s Cathedral, and the Alaska Raptor Center are all within walking distance.

Yes, you can get around Sitka without a car–most cruise-ship visitors do so every day. Base yourself downtown for easy access to Sitka National Historical Park, St. Michael’s Cathedral, Baranof Castle Hill, and the Alaska Raptor Center. When you want to get on the water or into the mountains, simply book a tour.

You need about three days in Sitka. This gives you a chance to explore the city’s history at Sitka National Historical Park and try to spot humpback whales from July through December. You can also hike up into the mountains and in Tongass National Forest, the largest national forest in the US.