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CRUISE TRAVELER REPORT
Compliments of Raye & Marty Trencher
Suggested Retail Price:
$9.95
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What's Inside
Anchorage, Alaska
Seward, Alaska
Sitka, Alaska
Skagway, Alaska
Haines, Alaska
Juneau, Alaska
Ketchikan, Alaska
Denali National Park, Alaska
Glacier Bay Natl Pk, Alaska
Katmai National Park, Alaska
Kodiak, Alaska
Gates Of The Arctic National Park And Preserve, Alaska
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, Alaska
Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, Alaska
Fairbanks, Alaska
Homer, Alaska
Inside Passage, Alaska
Kenai Peninsula, Alaska
Misty Fiords National Monument, Alaska
Prudhoe Bay, Alaska
Alaska At Sea, Alaska
Whittier, Alaska
Anchorage, Alaska
Overview
Introduction
Anchorage, Alaska, is big-city living. It is home to more
than a quarter-million people—nearly half the state's
population. The city has shopping malls, national discount
stores, movie theaters, fast-food restaurants, fine dining,
high-rise hotels and a busy international airport. That
makes Anchorage an anomaly in a state where the featured
attraction is wilderness—specifically Denali National Park,
the Kenai Peninsula and Katmai National Park, to name only a
few sights. Alaska's residents joke that visitors can't
really claim to have seen the state until they leave
Anchorage.
But, as with most places in Alaska, the wilderness is never
far away. The snowcapped Chugach Mountains rise just behind
the city, and some of the state's premier natural
attractions are within a day's travel. If you visit in
summer, you'll have extra time to see the sights—there are
17-21 hours of daylight per day then.
Must See or Do
Sights—Browsing at the Anchorage Market and Festival; views
from the tram to the top of Mount Alyeska in Girdwood and
from the Glen Alps Trailhead within Chugach State Park;
beluga whales and Dall sheep along Turnagain Arm; watching
floatplanes land and take off at Lake Hood; fishing for
salmon in Ship Creek in the heart of downtown.
Museums—The Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center, which
houses art galleries, the Smithsonian Arctic Study Center,
the Imaginarium Discovery Center and the Thomas Planetarium;
the vast collection of Alaska Native exhibits and arts
demonstrations at the Alaska Native Heritage Center;
Alaska's aviation legacy at the Alaska Aviation Heritage
Museum; moose and whale skeletons at the Alaska Museum of
Natural History.
Memorable Meals—The steak sandwich or tomato-Gorgonzola soup
at Sacks Cafe; the Glacier BrewHouse for Alaskan king crab
legs; freshly caught Alaska wild salmon or halibut at Simon
and Seafort's; pizza at Moose's Tooth Pub and Pizzeria; the
pepper steak at Club Paris; the wild-mushroom ravioli or
lamb osso buco at Orso; macadamia-nut halibut at Marx
Brothers' Cafe; blueberry-patch truffle at Modern Dwellers
Chocolate Lounge.
Late Night—A concert at the Alaska Center for the Performing
Arts; a nightcap at the Crow's Nest; blues music at Blues
Central; dancing and food at Platinum Jaxx; live music at
McGinley's Irish Pub; martinis at Bernie's Bungalow Lounge;
partying in the maze of bars at Chilkoot Charlie's.
Walks—Strolling the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail in the
almost-midnight sun of midsummer; hiking Flattop Mountain or
nature trails in Chugach State Park; the free 45-minute
Alaska Public Lands Information Center walking tour in
downtown Anchorage; searching for moose, beavers and birds
at Kincaid Park or Potter Marsh; biking through the forests
of the Chester Creek Trail.
Especially for Kids—Hands-on exhibits at the Imaginarium;
watching Oreo and Ahpun at the Alaska Zoo; splashing through
the H2Oasis Waterpark; indoor ice skating at the Dimond
Center Mall; the theater and park at Alaska Wild Berry
Products; visiting wild things at Alaska Wildlife
Conservation Center.
Geography
The city occupies a wide and relatively flat point of land
where Ship Creek flows into Cook Inlet in south-central
Alaska. The southern edge of Anchorage borders on the waters
of Turnagain Arm (a branch of Cook Inlet). The Chugach
(pronounced CHEW-gatch) Mountains rise to the east, and the
Anchorage Bowl—as the whole area is called—stretches
approximately 15 mi/25 km north to south and 10 mi/15 km
east to west at its widest point.
Within the Bowl are a number of distinct neighborhoods
connected by large arterial roads. There are two major
highways: the New Seward Highway, which heads south from
downtown toward Seward on the Kenai (pronounced KEE-nye)
Peninsula, and Glenn Highway, which heads northeast,
eventually connecting with the Alaska Highway at Tok. The
Parks Highway is the main road to Denali National Park and
Fairbanks. It branches off the Glenn Highway 35 mi/56 km
north of Anchorage.
Travelers are likely to visit downtown and midtown. The
latter is a nondescript area marked by shopping malls,
businesses and homes approximately 1 mi/2 km south of
downtown.
History
Anchorage sits along upper Cook Inlet, named for English
explorer James Cook, who sailed into those waters in 1778 in
search of the fabled Northwest Passage across the North
American continent. For centuries, the Tanaina natives
inhabited the area. The first European settlers didn't
arrive until the early 1900s.
In 1915, Anchorage became a primary staging area for workers
building the federally financed Alaska Railroad, which
connected coastal Seward with inland Fairbanks. A tent city
quickly sprang up along Ship Creek (located on the north
edge of downtown), and within a year the semblance of a
permanent town appeared complete with electricity, phones,
water lines and schools.
By the 1930s, more than 3,000 people lived in Anchorage, and
its importance grew during World War II when both Elmendorf
Air Force Base and Fort Richardson Army Post were built to
help defend Alaska from possible Japanese attack.
After Alaska gained statehood in 1959, Anchorage prospered
until the massive Good Friday earthquake of 1964. The
second-most-powerful earthquake in the world during the 20th
century, it had a magnitude of 9.2, killed 115 Alaskans and
caused US$18 billion in damage (2007 U.S. dollars). Most of
the structures in the city today were built after the quake.
Another significant event that has shaped Anchorage was the
discovery of oil in Prudhoe Bay in 1968, and the
construction of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline in the 1970s. The
city quickly became a base for oil companies and other
businesses, and its population more than tripled during the
next decade. Its central location, relatively mild weather
and excellent transportation facilities have made Anchorage
the most important city in Alaska—by far. Today, it's a
fairly cosmopolitan place and the commercial fulcrum of the
state.
Visitors to Anchorage will also discover a surprisingly
attractive downtown, especially in summer, with flowers
overflowing their hanging baskets and a lovely small park in
the center of town. In addition, the city has fine
restaurants, a vibrant nightlife and ample recreational
opportunities at any time of the year. Anchorage is a very
livable city.
Port Information
Location
Although it's a port city, few cruise ships actually dock in
Anchorage because of the constantly changing shallow
conditions of the inlet and tremendously powerful tides.
Instead, most cruise ships stop at one of two deepwater
ports: Seward, 127 mi/204 km south on the Kenai Peninsula;
or Whittier, 57 mi/92 km southeast, on the west side of
Prince William Sound. Passengers are transported overland by
bus or train to and from Anchorage.
Shore Excursions
Cruise tours include trips to Columbia Glacier, Prince
William Sound, Katmai National Park and Preserve, Denali
National Park and Preserve with towering Mt. McKinley,
Portage Glacier and Seward. Most provide opportunities for
fishing, camping, hiking, boating, sightseeing, historic
railroad trips, flightseeing or landing on a glacier by
helicopter.
Some ship-sponsored tours may include bus or train
transportation, overnight accommodations and food, but
others may not. For a complete list of excursions and
prices, contact the cruise line or your travel agent.
Potpourri
Alaska has 128 times more land covered by glaciers than all
the remaining states, with a combined 100,000 glaciers.
Glacial ice often appears blue because glaciers absorb all
other colors and reflect blue. There are 60 glaciers within
50 mi/80 km of Anchorage.
The majority of Anchorage city drinking water is runoff from
the Eklutna Glacier that is piped into the city.
When Pope John Paul II spoke at downtown's Delaney Park
Strip in 1981, 50,000 people came to see him, which is
amazing given that his visit was in February and the event
was outdoors.
Moose frequent yards and streets throughout Anchorage, and
there are about 1,900 of the animals in residence within
city limits as well as about 250 black bears and 65 brown
bears.
Anchorage is home to Lake Hood, the busiest seaplane base in
the world, with more than 600 takeoffs and landings daily in
summer. These small planes use skis and wheels on the frozen
runway in the winter.
The Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race has a ceremonial start in
Anchorage and travels 1,049 mi/1,689 km from Willow or
Wasilla to Nome every year, although the exact route differs
each year.
A life-sized statue of Capt. James Cook overlooks the
Turnagain Arm at Resolution Park in downtown Anchorage.
Reportedly, the statue frowns because of Cook's failure to
find the fabled Northwest Passage. Cook's ship, The
Resolution, was forced to turn back in Anchorage's shallow
port waters.
Anchorage is Alaska's largest Alaska Native village, home to
members of all eleven Alaska cultural groups.
On a clear day in Anchorage you can see 20,300-ft/6,187-m
Mount McKinley, North America's tallest mountain, which is
130 mi/208 km north of downtown. You can also see six
mountain ranges: the Alaska Range; the Chugach, Talkeetna,
Tordrillo and Kenai mountains; and the Aleutian Range as
well as two volcanoes.
Anchorage, which stretches 1,961 mi/3,157 km from Portage
Glacier to Eklutna, is about the size of the state of
Delaware.
See & Do
Sightseeing
Before dashing off to outlying sights such as Denali
(pronounced deh-NAH-lee) National Park or the Kenai
Peninsula, you should spend some time in Anchorage itself.
With its museums, art galleries, restaurants, parks and
trails, flower-filled city center and scenic shoreline, the
city is worth at least a day of sightseeing and possibly
more.
You might want to start with a visit to the impressive
Anchorage Museum, Resolution Park and the Alaska Public
Lands Information Center. Farther away are the must-see
Alaska Heritage Museum at Wells Fargo and the Alaska
Aviation Heritage Museum.
A trolley car leaves from in front of the log-cabin visitor
center at Fourth Avenue and F Street hourly 9 am-5 pm for a
45-minute tour of downtown (about US$10 adults). We also
recommend a drive south along Turnagain Arm to Girdwood,
stopping at the Potter Marsh Bird Sanctuary and the numerous
scenic overlooks to watch for beluga whales or Dall sheep.
For the best views, take along a pair of binoculars.
Historic Sites
Two places of historic interest are the Alaska Railroad
Depot at 411 W. First Ave. and Pioneer School House at Third
Avenue and Eagle Street in Anchorage.
Outside Anchorage are the Crow Creek Consolidated Mining Co.
in Girdwood and the Old St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church
in Eklutna, among others. Oscar Anderson House
One of Anchorage's oldest residences and listed on the
National Register of Historic Places, this small two-story
house was constructed in 1915 by Swedish butcher Oscar
Anderson. It has been furnished and meticulously maintained
to represent the city's early days. Guided tours last 30-45
minutes. Open mid-June to mid-September Monday-Friday noon-5
pm. US$3 adults, US$1 children. 420 M St. (next to
Elderberry Park and the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, at the
west end of Fifth Avenue), Anchorage. Phone 907-274-2336.
Museums
Alaska Aviation Heritage Museum
Located on Lake Hood near Ted Stevens Anchorage
International Airport, this museum contains 30 vintage
aircraft, items from battles in the Aleutian Islands during
World War II, and three theaters that show videos depicting
Alaska's aviation history. Try your hand at handling an
aircraft in a flight simulator. It's also fun to watch the
floatplanes taking off from Lake Hood and Spenard Lake
outside the museum or watch the restoration of historic
planes. The gift shop sells aviation-related items. Free
shuttle from the Ted Stevens Airport (phone 907-529-2577).
Open mid-May to mid-September daily 9 am-5 pm; mid-September
to mid-May Wednesday-Sunday 9 am-5 pm. US$10 adults, US$8
seniors, US$6 children. 4721 Aircraft Drive, Anchorage.
Phone 907-248-5325. http://www.alaskaairmuseum.org.
Alaska Heritage Museum at Wells Fargo
Rather surprisingly, one of the finest collections of
Alaskana on public display is housed in a midtown Wells
Fargo bank building. The museum includes paintings by
renowned Alaskan artists, rare books, Alaska Native
carvings, baskets and artifacts, ivory ship models and much
more. Memorial Day-Labor Day Monday-Friday noon-5 pm; the
rest of the year noon-4 pm. Free. 301 W. Northern Lights
Blvd., Anchorage. Phone 907-265-2834. http://www.wellsfargohistory.com/museums/museum_anchorage.html.
Alaska Law Enforcement Museum
The very small but unique museum and gift shop of the Alaska
State Troopers showcases memorabilia, photographs and
historic police equipment, including a restored 1952 Hudson
Hornet patrol car. Open Monday-Friday 10 am-4 pm, Saturday
noon-4 pm. Free. 245 W. Fifth Ave., Suite 113, Anchorage.
Phone 907-279-5050. http://www.alaskatroopermuseum.com.
Alaska Museum of Natural History
Create an earthquake with the earthquake simulator or dig
and discover broken mammoth artifacts at this hands-on
museum. On display are saber-tooth cat, velociraptor, whale
and mammoth skeletons along with a huge collection of Alaska
rocks, minerals and fossils. Open Tuesday-Saturday 10 am-5
pm. US$5 adults, US$3 children, US$15 family. 201 N. Bragaw
St., Anchorage. Phone 907-274-2400. http://www.alaskamuseum.org.
Alaska Native Heritage Center
Staffed entirely by Alaska Natives from across the state,
this 26-acre/11-hectare site on the eastern edge of
Anchorage provides a fine introduction to Alaska's different
cultures. The Welcome House describes the various cultural
groups through exhibits, videos, photographs, artifacts and
demonstrations. Outside is a small lake surrounded by six
re-created villages. A trail links the sites, and guides
give details. It's a must-see. The Raven's Call Cafe is
on-site, and the gift shop is one of the better places in
the state to buy arts and crafts made by Alaska Natives.
Mid-May to mid-September daily 9 am-5 pm. US$24.95
non-Alaskan adults, US$21.15 seniors and military, US$16.95
children. Family packages (two adults, two children) are
available for US$71.50. US$9.95 Alaskan residents. 8800
Heritage Center Drive, Anchorage. Phone 907-330-8000.
Toll-free 800-315-6608. http://www.alaskanative.net.
Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center
One of the finest museums in Alaska, this sleek facility
covers indigenous lifestyles, European explorations, Russian
colonization and the statehood years, including such topics
as the 1964 earthquake and the Trans-Alaska Pipeline. Four
floors filled with fascinating interactive exhibits offer
history and art, life-sized dioramas of Alaska Native
villages and traveling exhibits. Free documentary videos are
shown daily in summer. Five times daily, 45-minute guided
tours are provided. The Imaginarium Discovery Center
features more than 70 hands-on interactive science exhibits,
including simulated earthquakes and auroras as well as
animal touch tanks. The museum also houses the Thomas
Planetarium and the Smithsonian Arctic Studies Center, with
more than 600 Smithsonian indigenous artifacts.
The museum's Muse Cafe is operated by the Marx Brothers, who
have a popular restaurant in town, and there's a gift shop
with quality authentic Alaska Native arts and crafts. Open
mid-May to mid-September daily 9 am-6 pm (Thursday till 9
pm); mid-September to mid-May Tuesday-Saturday 10 am-6 pm,
Sunday noon-6 pm. US$10 adults, US$8 seniors, US$7 donation
suggested for child admission. 625 C St., Anchorage. Phone
907-929-9201. http://www.anchoragemuseum.org.
Knik Museum/Mushers Hall of Fame
This is not a re-creation: The small museum is housed in a
building (one of only two remaining) from the Knik
(pronounced k-NICK) Gold Rush era. It contains regional
memorabilia, portraits and dog-mushing artifacts. There's a
Canine Hall of Fame, too. In winter, the Iditarod Trail Sled
Dog Race passes its front door. In summer, you can picnic on
the grounds and look out at Knik Lake. June-August
Friday-Sunday noon-6 pm; September-May by appointment. Hours
are subject to change pending staffing and public interest,
so call ahead. US$2 adults. Off Mile 13.9, Knik Road
(approximately 60 mi/97 km northeast of Anchorage), Wasilla.
Phone 907-376-2005 to leave a message for call-back.
Parks & Gardens
Alaska Botanical Garden
This 110-acre/44-hectare park demonstrates the amazing
growth possible in Alaska's daylight-filled summers. The
1-mi/1.6-km interpretive trail through a spruce and birch
forest overflows with color and variety in summer and
provides an easy stroll. Wildlife sightings are not
uncommon; be alert for moose. A gift shop is on-site. Garden
is open mid-May to mid-September daily 9 am-9 pm;
mid-September to mid-May daily during daylight hours; winter
gardens are often covered with snow. Admission by donation.
Call ahead for guided tours (US$5 adults, US$3 children,
US$10 families), offered daily at 1 pm June-August.
Self-guided tour maps are also available. 4601 Campbell
Airstrip Road, Anchorage. Phone 907-770-3692. http://www.alaskabg.org.
Delaney Park Strip
When the land was cleared for this park in 1923, the whole
town pitched in. From the beginning, it has been a
multipurpose area, serving initially as both a runway for
air traffic and a nine-hole golf course. After 1929, when
another airfield was built, the strip became a natural
barrier against forest fires that might threaten the
downtown area. More recently it has hosted picnics with the
mayor and special concerts and events that need large
venues. The park includes baseball fields and ice rinks,
monuments and rose gardens in an area one block wide and 14
blocks long. Daily users include joggers and dog walkers,
kite flyers and picnickers. The summer gardens are well
worth a photograph, as is the retired Alaska Railroad engine
car at Ninth Avenue and L Street. Keep your eyes open for a
small fenced yard housing a pet reindeer named Star VI; its
owner walks her most evenings along the Park Strip. It's the
sixth in a series of reindeer with the same name that have
been kept there since 1962. Between Ninth and 10th avenues
and A and P streets, Anchorage. http://www.anchorageparkfoundation.org/directory/delaney.htm.
Earthquake Park
This small park marks the spot where 75 homes were destroyed
when huge chunks of land slid into Cook Inlet during the
1964 earthquake. A short trail is well-marked with
educational signs and interpretive displays. It gives
information about the earthquake (which registered a
magnitude of 9.2), local geology and native wildlife. Even
locals visit now and again to remind themselves of Mother
Nature's wrath, as well as to enjoy the view the area
affords of the Anchorage skyline and the Chugach Mountains.
The 11-mi/18-km Tony Knowles Coastal Trail runs through this
park en route to Kincaid Park. Open year-round. Free.
Northern Lights Boulevard (east of the intersection with
International Airport Road), Anchorage.
Kincaid Park
This is a wonderful spot for summer and winter activities:
It comprises 37 mi/60 km of walking and cross-country ski
trails with different skill levels. In summer, take a picnic
lunch and enjoy how the ski trails transform into dirt
trails for easy hiking and bicycle rides. Be sure to pick up
a trail map at trailheads so you don't get turned around in
this hilly, tree-filled park, which offers views of Denali
(weather permitting), the Alaska Range and Cook Inlet and
frequent opportunities to see moose. Park open daily 10
am-10 pm. Raspberry Road parking lot outside the park open
daily 6 am-11 pm. Public facilities are available daily
noon-8:45 pm in the Kincaid Outdoor Center, which is also
available to rent. Motorcross is available April-November
Wednesday-Sunday 10 am-7:30 pm. Park admission is free.
Located at the west end of Raspberry Road, Anchorage. Phone
907-343-6397.
Resolution Park
This tiny downtown park surrounds a life-sized statue of
James Cook, who sailed into Cook Inlet in 1778 in search of
the Northwest Passage. A wooden viewing platform and
telescopes allow good views of Mount McKinley and the Alaska
Range when the skies are clear, along with several
semiactive volcanoes and the low summit of Mount Susitna,
also known as the Sleeping Lady (see if you can spot how she
got her name). Open year-round. Free. At Third Avenue and L
Street, Anchorage.
Amusement Parks
H2Oasis Waterpark
An oasis of fun for kids (and adults), this water park has
faux palm trees and a pirate ship riddled with seven
waterslides. It offers water cannons, two large waterslides
(including a 150-ft/45-m tube), the rollicking Master
Blaster water coaster, a lazy river for tubing, a wave pool,
wading pool, whirlpool and more. This is the only warm-water
fun park in Alaska. A food court is also available.
September-May Monday and Wednesday 3-8 pm, Friday 3-9 pm;
Saturday and Sunday 10 am-9 pm. Closed Tuesday and Thursday.
June-August daily 10 am-9 pm. Day passes US$23.99 adults,
US$18.99 children ages 3-12. 1520 O'Malley Road, Anchorage.
Phone 907-522-4420. Toll-free 888-426-2747.
http://www.h2oasiswaterpark.com.
Zoos & Wildlife
Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
This facility adopts injured or orphaned animals. It has
spacious enclosures that create a safari atmosphere for
buffalo, wood bison, elk, moose, black and grizzly bears,
musk oxen and other species. A gift shop is on-site. Mid-May
to mid-September daily 8 am-8 pm; mid-September to March
daily 10 am-5 pm; April to mid-May daily 10 am-6 pm. US$10
adults, US$7.50 seniors and children. Mile 79 on the Seward
Highway (just north of the Portage Glacier Road turnoff, 45
minutes south of Anchorage in Portage), Anchorage. Phone
907-783-2025. http://www.alaskawildlife.org.
Alaska Zoo
The state's only zoo, this small facility houses bears,
moose, musk oxen, seals and other Alaskan wildlife, along
with subarctic (cold weather) species, including Amur tigers
and Bactrian camels. The star attractions are Ahpun the
polar bear and Oreo the grizzly bear, who grew up together
and lived in the same enclosure until they began to have
roommate issues. Oreo has now been placed with Jake, a male
Kodiak bear, and Ahpun lives with Lyutyik, a female polar
bear. Mid-May to mid-September daily 9 am-6 pm (till 9 pm
Tuesday and Friday June-August); mid-September to mid-May
daily 10 am-4 pm. US$12 adults, US$9 seniors, US$6 youths
ages 3-17, free for children age 2 and younger. 4731
O'Malley Road (2 mi/3 km east of New Seward Highway),
Anchorage. Phone 907-346-2133. http://www.alaskazoo.org.
Musk Ox Farm
An hour's drive from Anchorage, this is the world's only
domestic musk-ox farm, home to 50 of these distinctive
arctic creatures. Half-hour tours include an introduction to
these bisonlike animals and the soft and warm wool they
produce. The wool (called qiviut) is used in a variety of
products, many of which are sold in the gift shop, including
scarves, stoles and tunics. Open daily June-August 10 am-6
pm. Winter by appointment only. US$8 adults, US$7 seniors,
US$6 children ages 5-12, free for children younger than 5.
Mile 50 on Glenn Highway, Palmer. Phone 907-745-4151.
http://www.muskoxfarm.org.
Recreation
The abundant opportunities for recreation make Anchorage a
very livable city at all times of the year. Its proximity to
Chugach State Park provides the chance to get away from the
city itself, and parks and trails within Anchorage create a
series of attractive greenbelts.
For in-town adventure, it's hard to beat the paved and
nearly level Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, which starts
downtown and continues 11 mi/18 km along the coast. In the
summer, you can catch king salmon within a few blocks of
downtown office buildings at Ship Creek, and in the winter,
Anchorage turns to skiing, dog mushing, ice skating and
other chilly outdoor pursuits.
Bicycling
Anchorage has a number of paved paths that are particularly
popular with cyclists. The easiest and most accessible is
the 11-mi/18-km Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, which begins
downtown, passes the scenic Westchester Lagoon and Point
Woronzof, and then leads to Kincaid Park. Before the trail
reaches Kincaid, however, you can branch off at the paved
Chester Creek Trail; it follows a salmon-spawning creek and
bisects the city east and west. In all, Anchorage maintains
more than 128 mi/206 km of paved trails.
At Kincaid Park, there are many dirt paths that offer
challenging rides.
Downtown Bicycle Rental
Choose from 100 mountain bikes and tandems rented by the
hour, day or week. Open Memorial Day-Labor Day 8 am-8 pm
with evening lockup until 10 pm; September 9 am-7 pm;
October 10 am-6 pm, or call 907-279-3334 at all other times.
US$16-27.50 for three hours, depending on the type of bike
(lock, helmet, repair kit and bike-trail maps are included).
333 W. Fourth Ave., Suite 206, Anchorage. Phone
907-279-5293. http://alaska-bike-rentals.com.
Bird Watching
The tidal flats around Anchorage offer some of the best
local bird-watching, particularly along the Tony Knowles
Coastal Trail at Westchester Lagoon. (Note: Stay on the
trail. It is extremely dangerous to walk on the tidal flats,
which are a type of quicksand composed of glacial silt.)
Also popular for bird-watching is Potter Marsh on the south
side of town with a boardwalk that extends over the marsh so
you can get closer views of waterfowl. Loons, ducks, Canada
geese and songbirds of the boreal forest frequent Goose
Lake, near the University of Alaska Anchorage, in the center
of town.
The Anchorage Audubon Society leads bird-watching field
trips and has a bird hotline with the latest unusual
sightings. Phone 907-338-2473. http://www.anchorageaudubon.org.
The Alaska Department of Fish and Game offers the Wings Over
Alaska program to track birds at http://www.birding.alaska.gov.
A free online program allows birders to record sightings at
http://www.ebird.org.
Fishing
Ship Creek flows through the heart of Anchorage, just a
short walk from downtown hotels. During summer, the creek
sees a good run of king and silver salmon, and it's often
crowded with anglers. There are additional opportunities in
Campbell and Chester creeks in town and in the surrounding
areas, particularly south of town along Turnagain Arm and
the Kenai Peninsula, and north of town on the Susitna River.
Licenses are sold in local sporting-goods stores and grocery
stores. Take along your own gear, as no outfitter in
Anchorage rents equipment. If you hire a fishing guide, most
guides provide gear as part of their fee.
Golf
Anchorage Golf Course
This public 18-hole, par-72 course sits at the base of the
Chugach Mountains. There are great views from the fairways,
and you may also spot some wildlife. Open daily mid-May to
September during daylight hours. Greens fees run US$35 for
nine holes or US$54 for 18 holes (not including cart). Club
rentals are US$14-$39. 3651 O'Malley Road, Anchorage. Phone
907-522-3363. http://www.alyeskaresort.com.
Russian Jack Springs Golf Course
Municipal nine-hole course within Russian Jack Springs Park.
Look out for No. 3, with its tree-lined, narrow fairway.
Open daily mid-May to mid-October 8 am-9 pm. Greens fees run
US$11-$13. Limited club rentals available for US$7. 1600
Lidia Selkregg Lane, Anchorage. Phone 907-343-6992.
Tanglewood Lakes Golf Club
Wooded nine-hole course that also offers an opportunity to
view wildlife. There's also a winter driving range inside a
golf dome. Golf course open daily mid-May to September 8
am-11:30 pm. Driving range open 10 am-10 pm year-round.
Greens fees run US$18 for nine holes and an additional US$10
to repeat the course. Driving range US$12 for the first 36
minutes. Club rentals are available. 11801 Brayton Drive,
Anchorage. Phone 907-345-4600. http://www.tanglewoodlakesgolf.com.
Hiking & Walking
Chester Creek Trail
An offshoot of the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, this trail
begins at Westchester Lagoon (T Street and 15th Avenue) and
travels east along the creek to Goose Lake in the University
District. Paved its entire length, it is level and very
scenic. It borders the south end of Anchorage's downtown
district.
Chugach State Park
The most popular local hiking trails are within this
495,000-acre/200,319-hectare park, in the mountains just
east of Anchorage. Several trailheads provide access to 27
trails ranging from the 0.25 mi/0.4 km wheelchair-accessible
Anchorage Overlook Trail to the 26 mi/50 km increasingly
challenging Iditarod (Crow Pass) Trail. Some trails, such as
the Bird to Gird (the old highway from Bird Creek to
Girdwood), are shared by hikers, bikers, cross-country
skiers and snow machines when snow conditions permit. Phone
907-269-8400. http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/chugach.
Flattop Mountain
This 3-mi/5-km round-trip hike in Chugach State Park is
considered quite strenuous by some and a simple hike by
others. The most-climbed mountain in Alaska covers a
vertical rise of 1,250 ft/375 m and ends in some scrambling
over rocks. The views are awe-inspiring on a clear day when
you can see the entirety of the Anchorage Bowl as well as
the Alaska Range from across Cook Inlet. To get to the
trailhead, go east on O'Malley Boulevard for 4 mi/6 km, then
left on Upper Huffman Drive for a short jaunt, then right on
Toilsome Hill Road for 2 mi/4 km to the Glen Alps parking
lot. There's an overlook near the parking lot where you can
take in the view of the Anchorage Bowl—the trail there is
0.25 mi/0.4 km long and paved for those not up to the
mountain climb.
Tony Knowles Coastal Trail
This paved trail begins near downtown Anchorage and follows
Cook Inlet to Kincaid Park. It's fairly level and is popular
with walkers, joggers, bicyclists and in-line skaters. Some
of the best access points are at the west end of Second
Avenue and the west end of Fifth Avenue. During the course
of its 11-mi/18-km stretch, this trail leads past
Westchester Lagoon (filled with waterfowl in summer and
boasting a picturesque mountain backdrop), Earthquake Park
and Point Woronzof (a scenic viewpoint) before reaching
Kincaid Park.
Ice Skating
Dimond Center Ice Chalet
If you visit Alaska in the summer, you still don't have to
miss the state's favorite pastime. A large indoor
ice-skating rink on the bottom floor of the Dimond Center
Mall makes it easy to practice your pirouettes year-round.
Open daily; hours vary by day and time of year. US$5 adults,
US$3.50 seniors and children age 12 and younger. Skate
rentals and classes also available. 800 E. Diamond Blvd.,
Anchorage. Phone 907-344-1212. http://www.dimondicechalet.com.
Skiing
Alyeska Resort
This favorite of skiers and snowboarders—and former domicile
of Olympic skier Tommy Moe—is 40 mi/64 km south of
Anchorage. Deep snow (650 in/1,651 cm annually), 73 runs, a
60 passenger aerial tram, seven chairlifts and two magic
carpets contribute to its appeal. Lessons and rentals are
available. For heli-skiing and snowcat skiing, contact
Chugach Powder Guides (phone 907-754-2108; http://www.chugachpowderguides.com).
In summer, the resort is equally popular and has a tram to
mountaintop restaurants. The hotel there (The Hotel Alyeska)
is one of the finest in the state. Skiing is open daily
10:30 am-5:30 pm mid-November to April, night skiing
4:30-9:30 pm. Day ski pass US$60 adults, night ski pass
US$40 adults. To ride the tram to the top and back is US$18
adult, or free with advance dining reservations. 1000
Arlberg Road, Girdwood. Phone 907-754-2111. Toll-free
800-880-3880. http://www.alyeskaresort.com.
Arctic Valley Ski Area
This family-oriented, affordable ski area has a T-bar and
two chair lifts to access 500 acres/202 hectares of Nordic
and alpine ski areas. Open for skiing in season weekends
only. Saturday 10:30 am-7 pm, Sunday 11 am-7 pm. US$32
adults full-day, US$24 half-day (2-7 pm). At the end of
Arctic Valley Road (off Glenn Highway, 10 minutes from
downtown), Anchorage. Phone 907-428-1208. http://www.skiarctic.net.
Hilltop Ski Area
Hilltop Ski Area provides a more convenient, albeit less
challenging, alternative to Mount Alyeska. Located at the
base of the Chugach Mountains, it has one triple chair lift,
a rope tow, platter lift, lodge, snack bar and 30 acres/12
hectares of groomed slopes with ranging levels of
difficulty. Bordering facilities include the lighted Karl
Eid Ski Jump Complex (phone 907-346-2322) and nearly 28
mi/45 km of cross-country trails for Nordic skiers. Open
in-season Monday-Thursday 3-8 pm, Friday 3-9 pm, Saturday
and holidays 9 am-9 pm, Sunday 9 am-5 pm. Lift tickets are
US$24-$30 adults. 7015 Abbott Road (near Lake Otis Parkway),
Anchorage. Phone 907-346-2167 (ski hotline) or 907 346-1446
(administration). http://www.hilltopskiarea.org.
Nightlife
Anchorage has a wide variety of nightlife offerings, from
romantic jazz-music spots to meat-market clubs. Bars and
nightclubs are scattered around the city, although several
of the best known are located along Spenard Road.
Most clubs close between midnight and 2:30 am.
Bars, Taverns & Pubs
Humpy's Great Alaskan Alehouse
Immensely popular with the young-and-single crowd, as well
as with patrons of the performing arts building across the
street, Humpy's overflows with people on Friday and Saturday
nights. It offers live music nightly, and the food is pub
grub at its best: burgers, grilled halibut, king crab,
nachos and pasta with scallops. It's loud and not a good
choice for families after about 8 pm, with almost nightly
events, including a pub quiz every Tuesday, and the best
beer selection in town. Daily for lunch and dinner (kitchen
closes at 1 am). Breakfast Saturday and Sunday. $$. Most
major credit cards. 610 W. Sixth Ave., Anchorage. Phone
907-276-2337. http://www.humpys.com.
Peanut Farm Sports Bar and Grill
This little old sports bar with peanut shells in part of the
original flooring connects to a massive 20,000-ft/6,096-m
two-story sports bar with giant plasma-screen TVs tuned to
sports, a stone pizza oven, pool tables and live music most
nights. The huge menu includes breakfast, burgers, pizzas,
seafood, grilled burritos, steaks, great salads, oysters
after 3 pm, and lots of appetizers. Out back is a spacious
covered deck where you can watch the salmon in Campbell
Creek in late summer. Open Sunday-Thursday 6 am-2:30 am,
Friday and Saturday 6 am-3 am. 5227 Old Seward Highway,
Anchorage. Phone 907-563-3283. http://www.wemustbenuts.com.
Snow Goose Restaurant & Pub
This downtown eatery has deck seating overlooking Cook Inlet
and Mount Susitna (the Sleeping Lady). If the evening is
warm and clear, grab a spot with a view of Mount McKinley.
This is the brewing location for the Sleeping Lady Brewing
Co., so plenty of fresh ales, lagers and root beer are
brewed on-site. The menu is well-rounded, too, with smoked
salmon pasta, flat-iron steak, tundra caribou cheeseburgers,
salads and Apple Ale salmon entrees. A favorite is the Taste
of Alaska, with reindeer-stuffed halibut, salmon cakes and a
king crab leg. Occasional live music. Open daily. $-$$. Most
major credit cards. 717 W. Third Ave., Anchorage. Phone
907-277-7727. http://www.alaskabeers.com.
Dance & Nightclubs
Bernie's Bungalow Lounge
A retro-style place with many theme rooms, plus a lawn and
patio in the rear. This is a lively spot where the beautiful
people play, dance, drink and eat. It offers up infamous
cosmopolitan martinis and has a very busy dance floor, with
DJ tunes several evenings a week. Daily noon-2:30 am. 626 D
St., Anchorage. Phone 907-276-8808. http://www.berniesbungalowlounge.com.
Chilkoot Charlie's
With 10 bars and three dance floors, live rock bands,
DJ-spun Top-40 tunes and swing music, this place has music
and dance areas to suit a wide variety of tastes. You will
definitely find a cross section of Alaskans at this
sawdust-and-peanut-shell-floored, fun-loving spot. Daily
10:30 am-2:30 am. US$7 cover on weekends. 2435 Spenard Road,
Anchorage. Phone 907-272-1010. http://www.koots.com.
Mad Myrna's
Alaska's best-known gay bar, with Friday-night drag shows,
country music and special theme nights. Locals ranked this
place among the city's top dance clubs. In the karaoke room,
the crowd can get pretty judgmental. Daily 3 pm-2:30 am.
US$4 cover on weekends. 530 E. Fifth Ave., Anchorage. Phone
907-276-9762. http://www.alaska.net/~madmyrna.
Platinum Jaxx
This sleek cocktail and grill establishment is a favorite
with the working crowd. Several DJs play upbeat music,
events include Saturday Night Live and Salsa Sunday, and
there are 40 flat-screen TVs. The menu features appetizers,
burgers, pizza, wraps and healthy salads with grilled or
blackened protein additions. Open daily. 901 E. Sixth Ave.,
Anchorage. Phone 907-278-5299. http://www.platinumjaxx.com.
Live Music
Blues Central
This smoker-friendly club is the place to go for nightly
live blues. Try to catch a show by the Rebel Blues or
Veronica Page bands, which make regular appearances. Music
starts at 9:30 pm. Blues jam on Sunday nights. Great bites
for lunch and dinner, too, from French dips and
beer-battered halibut sandwiches to a blackened-salmon
Caesar salad. Tuesday is Deadliest Catch night with fresh
seafood, and Saturday serves prime rib for US$12.95. Daily
11 am-11 pm. US$5 cover Friday and Saturday. 825 W. Northern
Lights Blvd., Anchorage. Phone 907-272-1341.
McGinley's Irish Pub
This toe-tapping downtown pub, close to the Dena'ina Civic
and Convention Center, offers live music with no cover
charge Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, and Irish music on
Thursday nights. It serves Irish and American pub grub, such
as beef and Guinness stew, black-beer chili, or corned beef
and cabbage. Open daily. 645 G St., Anchorage. Phone
907-279-1782.
Performing Arts
Most performing arts in Anchorage are home-grown, from jug
bands to its respected symphony orchestra. The University of
Alaska at Anchorage is also a hub for student and
professional performances in both music and theater.
Since Anchorage is the biggest city in Alaska, it also draws
many major national touring acts. http://www.anchorageconcerts.org.
Music
Anchorage Symphony Orchestra
Performances take place at Atwood Concert Hall in the Alaska
Center for the Performing Arts. The season runs late
September to mid-April. 400 D St. Suite 230 (administrative
office), Anchorage. Phone 907-274-8668. http://www.anchoragesymphony.org.
Theater
Anchorage Community Theatre
Since 1953, ACT has incorporated local talent in theater
performances, education and outreach to students, including
annual summer magic workshops. 1133 E. 70th Ave., Anchorage.
Phone 907-344-4713 or 907-868-4913 (tickets). http://www.actalaska.org.
University of Alaska Anchorage Department of Theatre and
Dance
Student- and community-performed dance and theater
productions are offered during the academic year on the
university campus. 3211 Providence Drive, Anchorage. Phone
907-786-1792. Phone 907-263-2787 for tickets (CenterTix).
http://theatre.uaa.alaska.edu.
Ticket Brokers
For links to ticket sales and a listing of events in the
area while you are there, go to the events calendar portion
of the Anchorage Convention and Visitors Bureau at http://www.anchorage.net.
CenterTix
An online vendor, CenterTix lists upcoming attractions in
the performing arts. To check out the upcoming events,
choose seat assignments and purchase online or will-call
tickets, see the Web site or go to the Performing Arts
Center at 621 W. Sixth Ave. Phone 907-263-2787. Toll-free
877-278-7849. http://www.centertix.net.
Fred Meyer Ticketmaster Outlets
Ticketmaster, the be-all for sporting and some concert
events, can be accessed either through its Web site or at
Fred Meyer Grocery Store locations. You can buy tickets at
the stores, online or at the Sullivan Arena box office at
1600 Gambell St. Phone 907-279-0618. http://www.ticketmaster.com.
Venues
Alaska Center for the Performing Arts
The arts are well-represented at the modern Alaska Center
for the Performing Arts, which occupies a central space in
the heart of town. Modern-dance and ballet companies,
Broadway musicals, theater and nationally renowned musicians
perform there year-round. It's home to the city's symphony
orchestra, opera, ballet and concert chorus. This US$70
million modern brick-and-glass building, which houses four
performance areas and two spacious lobbies, occupies an
entire block in a prime location in downtown Anchorage. One
of the lobbies is decorated with Alaska Native masks and
vibrant floral carpeting.
From mid-May to September, the Sydney Laurence Theatre
offers AurorA, a 40-minute slide show on the northern
lights, set to original music, shown hourly 9 am-9 pm.
US$8.75 adults; students and children US$6.75 (plus a US$2
ACPA surcharge per ticket). Group rates are available. Phone
907 263-2993. http://www.thealaskacollection.com.
The park beside the building overflows with brightly colored
flowers in the summer months and is home to a popular
skating rink and ice sculptures in the winter. A skybridge
links the theaters with the Egan Center, a reception and
convention area across the street. CenterTix provides event
tickets (phone 907-263-2787). 621 W. Sixth Ave., Anchorage.
Phone 907-263-2900. http://myalaskacenter.com.
Cyrano's Off-Center Playhouse
A favorite local choice for performing arts, this small
stage is host to mesmerizing theater productions. Cyrano's
Theatre Company entertains audiences in this 86-seat venue.
Call to see what's playing while you're in town. 413 D St.,
Anchorage. Phone 907-274-2599. http://www.cyranos.org.
Out North Theatre and Gallery
In existence for more than 20 years, Out North presents an
array of alternative plays, video productions and workshops.
3800 DeBarr Road, Anchorage. Phone 907-279-3800. http://www.outnorth.org.
Spectator Sports
The Chester Creek Sports Complex houses the George M.
Sullivan Arena, Anchorage Football Stadium, Mulcahy Baseball
Stadium, Ben Boeke Indoor Ice Arena and Kosinski Baseball
Fields. It is also home to the Anchorage Aces hockey,
University of Alaska at Anchorage hockey and basketball,
Pilots and Bucs baseball, as well as high school football,
soccer and hockey games. In addition, the Dena'ina and Egan
Convention Centers host a myriad of sporting events
throughout the year. http://www.anchorageconventioncenters.com.
Alaska is a hotbed of hockey talent, and the University of
Alaska at Anchorage plays its games in the WCHL, one of the
strongest divisions in college hockey.
Basketball fans are in for a treat on Thanksgiving weekend
as the Sullivan Arena hosts the Great Alaska Shootout. A
tradition for more than 25 years, it brings together college
basketball teams from around the nation.
During the Fur Rendezvous each February, spectators can
watch men's, women's and children's sled dog races, which
start at Tozier Track or downtown Anchorage on Fourth
Avenue. The Rendezvous includes a multitude of other
sporting events around the city, too. The first weekend in
March is the start of the famous Iditarod Sled Dog Race,
which begins downtown on Fourth Avenue.
Each April, join fans for the Alaska Native Youth Olympics,
when several hundred students from across Alaska compete in
traditional Alaska Native sports, hosted by the University
of Alaska at Anchorage in its sports complex. The Mayor's
Midnight Sun Marathon attracts several thousand runners to
Anchorage on the weekend nearest the summer solstice (21
June).
Baseball
Alaska Baseball League
The Glacier Pilots and the Anchorage Bucs are
semiprofessional teams that frequently feature up-and-coming
college stars. Players such as Tom Seaver, Mark McGwire,
Barry Bonds and Randy Johnson once played in the Alaska
League. Both teams play home games June-August at Mulcahy
Stadium. 16th Avenue and Cordova Street (behind Sullivan
Arena), Anchorage. Phone 907-561-2827 (Bucs) and
907-274-3627 (Pilots). http://www.anchoragebucs.com or
http://www.glacierpilots.com.
Hockey
Alaska Aces
The Alaska Aces are members of the West Coast Hockey League
and past winners of the Kelly Cup. The team plays home games
October-April at Sullivan Arena. 1600 Gambell St.,
Anchorage. Phone 907-258-2237. http://www.alaskaaces.com.
Other Options
Thursday Night at the Fights
The Egan Center hosts boxing October-April every Thursday
night. 555 W. Fifth Ave., Anchorage. Phone 907-230-4469.
http://www.egancenter.com.
Shopping
Downtown Anchorage is heavily geared to tourist traffic in
the summer, and many gift shops sell the usual T-shirts,
mugs and trinkets with Alaska emblazoned on them. The
Anchorage Markets and Festival on Saturday and Sunday
May-September is an outstanding place to find all kinds of
locally made items.
Of particular interest to many travelers are the Alaska
Native arts and crafts sold at gift shops throughout the
city, including ulu knives, carved ivory, dolls, grass and
baleen baskets, totems, masks and jewelry. Even more
distinctive are items made from qiviut, or musk oxen wool.
Note: Because of their rare nature, some of these items
(ivory, whale baleen, qiviut) can be quite expensive.
Shopping Hours: During the summer season, most shops are
open Monday-Saturday 9 am-8 pm. Many stores are also open on
Sunday but with limited hours.
Bookstores
Most Alaskans are avid readers, so bookstores are a popular
local hangout, especially in winter. In the Anchorage area,
most chain book stores are represented as well as the
locally owned and operated stores. Metro Music and Book
Store
This book and music store carries CDs by local artists and
has a stage for various events. It also houses Cafe Felix,
famous for fresh, house-made espresso, yogurt, crepes and
sandwiches. Wi-Fi access. Open daily Monday-Saturday 9 am-7
pm, Sunday 10:30 am-5 pm. 530 E. Benson Blvd., Anchorage.
Phone 907-279-8622.
Title Wave Books
The largest independent bookstore in Alaska, this is a very
well-organized store specializing in used, new and bargain
books, with a half-million titles in stock every day. There
is a second location at 415 W. Fifth Ave. (open
May-September 10 am-8 pm). Monday-Thursday 9 am-9 pm, Friday
and Saturday 9 am-10 pm, Sunday 11 am-7 pm. 1360 W. Northern
Lights Blvd. (in the Northern Lights Center Mall),
Anchorage. Phone 907-278-9283. Toll-free 888-598-9283.
http://www.wavebooks.com.
Galleries
Artic Rose Gallery
Housed in the same building as Simon and Seafort's
restaurant, this fine-art gallery has a wide variety of
works by Alaskan artists and is open late most nights. 420 L
St., Anchorage. Phone 907-279-3911. http://www.articrosegallery.com.
Artique Ltd.
Widely regarded as Anchorage's best gallery, Artique
exhibits a variety of paintings, prints, ceramics and
jewelry. Hours are extended in summer. 314 G St., Anchorage.
Phone 907-277-1663. Toll-free 800-848-1312. http://www.artiqueltd.com.
Aurora Fine Arts Gallery
This attractive gallery on a busy downtown corner is jammed
with works by Alaskan and regional artists. 737 W. Fifth
Ave., Anchorage. Phone 907-274-0234.
Stephan Fine Arts
Alaskan art has graced this gallery's walls since 1977.
Choose from among Fred Machetanz's paintings of Alaska's
landscape and Alaska Natives, Rie Munoz's representations of
quirky village life, the amazing photography of Johnny
Johnson and the work of many other artists. (There is a
second location in the Hotel Captain Cook at 939 W. Fifth
Ave.) 434 K St., Anchorage. Phone 907-274-5009. http://www.stephanfinearts.com.
Markets
Anchorage Market and Festival
More than 300 vendors operate booths every Saturday and
Sunday in summer at this popular outdoor market. You'll find
photographs, crafts, jewelry, home-crafted soaps,
hand-painted ceramics, fresh produce, and a wide range of
sweet and greasy foods to nibble on while you shop. One
booth even offers Alaskan birch syrup and candies. Frequent
live entertainment. Highly recommended; this is a must-see
stop for both tourists and locals. Mid-May to mid-September
Saturday and Sunday 10 am-6 pm. Free. West Third Avenue
between E and C streets (across from the Hilton Hotel),
Anchorage. Phone 907-272-5634. http://www.anchoragemarkets.com.
New Sagaya City Market
A gourmet, Asian-focused grocery with a deli, Kaladi coffee
bar and La Roma bakery, this eclectic place is within
walking distance of downtown hotels. It's particularly
popular at lunch. The deli serves Chinese entrees, pizzas
from a wood-fired oven, gourmet espresso, and such
all-American favorites as roasted chicken and meat loaf. The
bakery is one of the finest in town. Several additional
locations. Daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. $. Most
major credit cards. 900 W. 13th Ave., Anchorage. Phone
907-274-6173. http://www.newsagaya.com.
Northway Mall Wednesday Market
Enjoy fresh Alaska produce on Wednesday 9 am-4 pm late
June-early October in the parking lot of the Northway Mall.
The mall, with 50 shops, is open year-round. 3101 Penland
Parkway, Anchorage.
Shopping Areas
Anchorage Fifth Avenue Mall
Houses several major chain stores, including Nordstrom,
Abercrombie & Fitch, Banana Republic, Eddie Bauer and The
Body Shop, plus a lot of smaller shops, some of which sell
local arts and crafts. Additionally, the shopping area south
of Nordstrom, outside of the mall, has blossomed with
specialty shopping boutiques, earning the area the nickname
SONO (South of Nordstrom). Open Monday-Friday 10 am-9 pm,
Saturday 10 am-8 pm, Sunday 11 am-6 pm. 320 W. 5th Ave.,
Suite 219, Anchorage. Phone 907-258-4003. http://www.simon.com/Mall/?id=231.
Dimond Center Mall
Alaska's largest mall houses 200 stores and offices, as well
as an ice-skating rink, bowling alley, health club, library,
post office and cinemas. Open Monday-Saturday 10 am-9 pm,
Sunday 11 am-6 pm. 800 E. Dimond Blvd., Anchorage. Phone
907-344-2581. http://www.dimondcenter.com.
Specialty Stores
Alaska Native Medical Center Craft Shop
One of the best spots for locally made Alaska Native arts
and crafts. Take some time to enjoy the Alaska Native art on
each floor, too. Monday-Friday 10 am-2 pm. Also open the
first and third Saturday of the month 11 am-2 pm. Cash or
traveler's checks only. 4315 Diplomacy Drive (off East Tudor
Road, inside the Alaska Native Medical Center), Anchorage.
Phone 907-729-1122.
Alaska Sausage and Seafood Company
Whether you prefer smoked salmon, halibut or gourmet
reindeer sausage, this specialty shop is an Anchorage
must-see. The staff will even smoke your catch for you. Gift
packages start around US$45 before tax, so you can take home
a sampling to share (or not—we won't tell) with your friends
back home. Open Monday-Friday 9:30 am-6 pm, Saturday 9:30
am-3 pm. 2914 Arctic Blvd., Anchorage. Phone 907-562-3636.
Toll-free 800-798-3636. http://www.alaskasausage.com.
Alaska Wild Berry Products
This chocolate- and berry-product factory offers 15-minute
tours during summer, complete with singing and dancing. Best
known for delicious chocolate-covered berries, fudge and
truffles, it also produces jams (including one made from
rose hips) and other Alaska products. It has a big gift shop
and a 20-ft/6-m chocolate waterfall, as well as a 153-person
theater, grill, beer and wine garden, and an ice-cream shop.
The Alaska Wild Berry Park and Village, a favorite with
kids, includes a reindeer petting zoo. Daily. Free. 5225
Juneau St. (at Old Seward Highway), Anchorage. Phone
907-562-8858. Toll-free 800-280-2927. http://www.alaskawildberryproducts.com.
Cabin Fever
This charming boutique offers quality, unique gifts made by
Alaskan artists. You can find local teas, ceramics with
salmon designs, etched wine glasses, birch bowls, and many
other treats and trinkets. Have a seat on the cedar chests
and rustic birch furniture. Open daily. 650 W. Fourth Ave.,
Anchorage. Phone 907-278-3522.
David Green Master Furrier
Whether you are seeking a new fur item or are simply
interested in seeing some of the best-quality Alaskan furs
available, this gallery will amaze you. It offers fur
slippers, tanned pelts, traditional-style mukluks, parkas,
long and short coats, small souvenirs and more.
Monday-Saturday 9 am-6 pm, Sunday by appointnent only. 130
W. Fourth Ave., Anchorage. Phone 907-277-9595. http://www.davidgreenfurs.com.
Downtown Co-op
On the first floor of the Fifth Avenue Mall is a small store
filled with Alaska-made items as well as some imported
goods. The craftspeople belonging to the co-op display their
stained glass, purses, jewelry, pottery, folk art, candles,
soaps, and a wide array of imported T-shirts and other
mementos. Daily. Corner of Fifth Avenue and C Street (in the
Fifth Avenue Mall), Anchorage. Phone 907-277-5620.
Oomingmak Musk Ox Producers' Co-operative
This cooperative sells woven qiviut (pronounced kiv-ee-ute),
the soft undercoat from musk oxen, in the form of scarves,
tunics, hats and other hand-knit items. It is considered
eight times warmer than sheep's wool, and the material is
accessed only by collecting wool that is shed from the
undercoats of wild musk oxen or by combing these
less-than-docile creatures. The items are all knitted by
Alaska Native women. Each village that belongs to the co-op
has its own weave pattern. Daily 10 am-6 pm (October-April
closed Sunday). 604 H St., Anchorage. Phone 907-272-9225.
Toll-free 888-360-9665. http://www.qiviut.com.
The Kobuk
This old-fashioned gift emporium specializes in flavored and
unflavored coffees, teas and china accessories, along with
candies, Alaska-made soaps and hundreds of other items. Sip
a free sample of the Kobuk house blend coffee or some spicy
Russian-influenced Samovar tea. Originally Kimball's Dry
Goods, the store is in a historic building from 1915. Open
Monday-Friday 10 am-6 pm, Saturday 11 am-6 pm. Closed
Sunday. 504 W. Fifth Ave., Anchorage. Phone 907-272-3626.
http://www.kobukcoffee.com.
The Ulu Factory
A piece of history and culture, Eskimo-style ulu knives are
still used by Alaska Natives around the state. You can
choose from an assortment with artistically carved handles.
Unfortunately, many of the ulus sold in Alaska gift shops
are made in China, but these knives are manufactured using
only products from the U.S. If you buy one, you'll receive a
lesson on how to properly hold and cut with the curved
blades. These items must be packed in checked baggage on
airlines. Mid-May to September daily; mid-September to
mid-May Monday-Friday. 211 W. Ship Creek Ave., Anchorage.
Phone 907-276-3119. http://theulufactory.com.
Itinerary
Day Trips
To the Arctic Circle. The Land of the Midnight Sun is
becoming an increasingly popular destination among
adventurous travelers, although there isn't much to see or
do once you get there. One tour option is a daylong guided
trip by plane from Anchorage to Barrow on the Arctic Ocean;
a better and less-rushed choice is to overnight in Barrow
before returning to Anchorage or Fairbanks. Another option
is a flight to Nome to see the terminus of the Iditarod Sled
Dog Race and learn about the town's gold history. Contact
Alaska Airlines Vacations (http://www.alaskaair.com) or Gray
Line of Alaska (http://www.graylinealaska.com) for details.
To Denali National Park and Mount McKinley. If you have time
for only one land tour, make it this one. You'll see
Alaska's premier wildlife preserve and the continent's
highest peak. Travel to and from Anchorage by rail. The
scenery and possible wildlife viewing en route is a big part
of the experience, so get a window seat, if possible. Once
you arrive at the park, you can go river rafting or
flightseeing or attend the Cabin Nite dinner theater (each
are options that you may add to your package). You can take
a hike on your own or take a safari wildlife tour and look
for moose, caribou, bears and Dall sheep. Trips range from
one to seven days, but we recommend spending at least two
days at the park.
To Girdwood. This town lies approximately 40 mi/64 km south
of Anchorage via the Seward Highway, a National Scenic Byway
(turn left to Girdwood at the Alyeska Highway). The drive
itself is a good reason to visit, as the road clings to the
edge of scenic Turnagain Arm much of the way, with periodic
pullouts to look for beluga whales and Dall sheep or simply
to take in the mountains-and-water vista. Two local bus
companies provide service to Girdwood from Anchorage if you
don't have a vehicle.
Tucked away in a narrow mountain valley, the town is
dominated by Mount Alyeska, the state's largest ski area.
You can ride the Alyeska Tramway on a five-minute narrated
trip up 2,300-ft-/700-m-tall Mount Alyeska. On a clear day,
the view includes more than seven glaciers. These views lead
to the name of the restaurant atop this mountain: The Seven
Glaciers. If you are there in the evening, be sure to make
reservations for this unforgettably romantic dining
experience. For casual dining with a local flair, stop by
Chair Five for casual Alaskan fare.
If you've ever had gold fever—or just want to find out what
all the fuss is about—visit historic Crow Creek Mine (the
exit for this is Crow Creek Mine Road, 3.5 mi/5.6 km
directly off the Alyeska Highway). There you can tour the
charming, century-old mining buildings and try your luck
panning for gold. While you're there, stop by the Double
Musky Inn for classic New Orleans dishes prepared with
Alaskan seafood.
To the Portage Valley and Portage Glacier. Located about 55
mi/90 km south of Anchorage on the Seward Highway (turn left
at Mile 50 onto Portage Valley Road), the Portage Valley has
more to offer than just the famous Portage Glacier. Several
turnouts along the road offer great views of hanging
glaciers on the mountainside, and a viewing platform just
before Williwaw Campground overlooks a salmon-spawning
stream. Interpretive signs help you distinguish among the
species of salmon. Keep an eye out for a day-use area
labeled Moose Flats. It offers picnic tables and a lovely
0.25-mi/0.4-km boardwalk to enjoy viewing moose and wild
fowl. Farther into Portage Valley, a marked trail to Byron
Glacier offers the chance to walk on a glacier with minimal
risk.
One of the most-visited sights in Alaska, Portage Glacier
(about 55 mi/90 km south) is offered as a seven-hour day
trip from Anchorage. Despite the crowds, it is definitely
worth seeing. This tour, with transportation included, makes
time for a stop at the Begich-Boggs Visitors Center, located
6 mi/10 km down the Whittier Access Road off Seward Highway,
which is filled with informative exhibits including a short
film about the geological dynamics of glaciers and how
they've shaped Alaska. The highlight of the tour is the
cruise up to the glacier aboard the MV Ptarmigan. On the
return trip to Anchorage, you will stop in Girdwood, have
time for lunch and, if you choose, ride the tram to the top
of Mount Alyeska for a glacier-filled view.
To Hatcher Pass. Northeast of Anchorage near the town of
Palmer, Hatcher Pass is not accessible by public
transportation, so you'll need to have your own vehicle. To
get there, drive 50 mi/80 km north on the Glenn Highway and
turn left onto Palmer-Fishhook Road. The first 8-mi/13-km
stretch passes through rolling agricultural land, but then
the road turns to gravel and enters the mountains, climbing
sharply for 9 mi/14 km to Independence Mine State Historical
Park. In summer, you can tour the mine buildings, which
nestle in a gorgeous alpine setting. You can also hike a
number of trails or ski cross-country (cross-country-ski
rentals are available in midtown Anchorage). http://www.dnr.state.ak.us/parks/units/indmine.htm.
Nearby Palmer is home to the fascinating Musk Ox Farm, where
these unusual creatures are raised for their undercoat,
called qiviut, which is like wool. It's processed and
knitted by Alaska Natives into beautiful, ultrasoft and
extremely warm garments. Because these fibers are easily
crushed and broken, you will find hats and scarves but not
mittens or high-impact items. Guided tours include
historical facts and humorous trivia about the animals at
the farm. This herd, and all Alaskan musk oxen, are
descended from Greenland musk oxen, as those in Alaska were
hunted to extinction in 1865.
Visit the Reindeer Farm as you head back toward Anchorage
from Palmer. It is 7 mi/11 km south of Palmer and a bit
difficult to find, but we're sure you will think the drive
is worthwhile. Step into Rudolph's world and into its
backyard, literally, as you enter a field filled with
reindeer. Your entrance fee includes some of the reindeer
kibble that these docile creatures enjoy. You'll also see
moose, Sitka black-tailed deer and a small herd of elk.
Horseback trail rides are available.
To Prince William Sound. Although cruise ships traveling the
Gulf Coast Route usually sail past the Columbia Glacier,
it's also possible to get a closer look on tours out of
Anchorage. This one-day tour package includes round-trip bus
transportation along scenic Turnagain Arm to Whittier, where
you'll board a ship that will take you out to some of the
world's largest glaciers. A natural-history guide provides
detailed information along the way. Take binoculars: The
marine wildlife is abundant. Lunch is included.
To Seward. This small coastal town is located approximately
125 mi/200 km south of Anchorage on the Seward Highway, but
the scenery makes the road trip worthwhile. Also known as
the gateway to the Kenai Fjords National Park, Seward is
also accessible via the Alaska Railroad, bus or air.
Depending on what time of year you visit, you may partake in
fly-fishing, boat charters, glacier and wildlife cruises,
sailing expeditions, hiking, kayaking, flightseeing, dogsled
rides, cross-country skiing and snow machining. If you
happen to be in town during the Fourth of July holiday (U.S.
Independence Day), don't miss the annual footrace to the
summit and descent of nearby Mount Marathon.
To the Glenn Highway. A drive along this National Scenic
Byway lets you explore the Matanuska Susitna (Mat-Su)
Valley, then climb along the edge of the Chugach Range with
views of glaciers and the Alaska Interior taiga or small
tree forests. The highway connects with the Parks Highway in
Wasilla, the Richardson Highway in Glenallen and the
Alaska-Canada Highway (Al-Can) in Tok.
Local Tours
Trolley and carriage tours of downtown, historical walking
tours and flightseeing tours of Denali National Park are
just a few of the ways to see Anchorage and the surrounding
region. Stop at the Log Cabin Visitors Center on Fourth
Avenue for information on the tours available.
Walking-tour maps at the visitors center can help you enjoy
the historical sights of downtown Anchorage at your own
pace. Plan a stop at the Oscar Anderson home, which is
representative of the decoration and accommodations of the
early homes of Anchorage. Chugach Outdoor Center
Go river rafting on Sixmile Creek at Mile 6 with the Chugach
Outdoor Center rafting company. With shuttle service from
Anchorage, this company offers several kinds of trips to
enjoy the white-water excitement on this Class IV and Class
V waterway. It also has kayak and float trips on the
Talkeetna, Tana and Resurrection rivers, on Kenai Lake and
in Denali. All equipment is provided. US$65 per person for a
shuttle round-trip from Anchorage (a cheaper option might be
to rent a car). US$99 for a two- to three-hour Sixmile trip,
US$149 for a four- to five-hour trip. Phone 907-277-7238.
Toll-free 866-277-7238. http://www.chugachoutdoorcenter.com.
K2Aviation
Offers flightseeing tours of Mount McKinley. 14052 E. Second
St., Talkeetna. Phone 907-733-2291. Toll-free 800-764-2291.
http://www.flyk2.com.
Motorcoach Tours
Gray Line of Alaska offers numerous tours, both long and
short. It has packages for the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race,
glacier cruising and gold-rush-history tours. Package tours
include Seward, Denali National Park, Fairbanks and/or the
Arctic Circle. From one-hour city tours to multiday tours,
this is a well-recognized, proven tour operator. Its many
options can help you maximize your time in Alaska. Open
mid-May to mid-September at the Westmark Anchorage Hotel,
705 W. Fifth Ave., or the Anchorage Hilton, 500 W. Third
Ave. Phone 907-277-5581. Toll-free 800-478-6388. http://www.graylinealaska.com.
Phillips Cruises and Tours
Phillips Cruises and Tours offers a wonderful day trip that
takes visitors to more than two dozen glaciers within Prince
William Sound. Tours are given onboard a high-speed
catamaran with space for 310 passengers. Two of the decks
are enclosed and heated, and the top level provides a
panoramic vista of the passing scenery and wildlife. These
four-and-a-half-hour trips depart by road or rail from the
port of Whittier, 60 mi/96 km south of Anchorage. The cost
is US$139 adults, US$79 children (including taxes and fees).
Transport by motorcoach is an additional US$50-$80 via the
Alaska Railroad. Phone 907-276-8023. Toll-free 800-544-0529.
http://www.26glaciers.com.
Rust's Flying Service
Rust's Flying Service offers floatplane flights to view
Alaskan brown bears in Katmai National Park or Lake Clark
National Park. The six-hour trips (US$595 per person) head
to Redoubt Bay within Lake Clark. Longer 10-hour trips
(US$795 per person) may include time at famous Brooks Camp
within Katmai National Park. The destination and routing
depend upon bear activity and weather conditions. Flights
depart from Lake Hood, Anchorage. Phone 907-243-1595.
Toll-free 800-544-2299. http://www.flyrusts.com.
Salmon Berry Tours
This operation offers a variety of tours year-round,
including the winter Northern Lights Late Night Special.
Participants leave Anchorage at 7 pm and drive north to the
Talkeetna Roadhouse, where they are treated to homemade
soups, breads and desserts, along with a stargazing seminar
on the Alaskan night sky. Participants then don snowshoes
and trek through the wilderness in search of the northern
lights, returning to the lodge about 2 am. 527 W. Third
Ave., Anchorage. Toll-free 888-878-3572. http://www.salmonberrytours.com.
Talkeetna Air Taxi
Take a flightseeing tour of Mount McKinley and walk on one
of the glaciers. Check out the Web site for photos of
scenery too spectacular for words. Prices begin at US$520
for a tour of Ruth Glacier or Ruth Gorge and Moose's Tooth.
14212 E. Second St., Talkeetna. Phone 907-733-2218.
Toll-free 800-533-2219. http://www.talkeetnaair.com.
Trolley Tours
Starting from the historic log cabin at Fourth Avenue and F
Street, Trolley Tours offers one-hour narrated tours by an
onboard guide who gives a brief history of downtown
Anchorage's streets and buildings. All-day passes allow
passengers to hop on and off as they choose: This trolley
stops at many tourist destinations around downtown and
midtown areas. The museum tour stops at three of the
best-loved museums, and you have the option to rejoin the
trolley at 15-minute intervals. Daily 9 am-5 pm mid-May
through September. The one-hour tour is US$15 adults,
US$7.50 children ages 6-12. Phone 907-276-5603. Toll-free
888-917-8687. http://www.alaskatrolley.com.
Day By Day
Day 1—Start the day with a walk around downtown, beginning
at the Log Cabin Visitors Center and, for information on
state and federal parks as well as exhibits on wildlife
found in Alaska, try the Alaska Public Lands Information
Center across the street. Visit the Anchorage Museum and
other sights in the downtown area. Spend the evening getting
your fill of fresh Alaskan seafood at one of the restaurants
overlooking Cook Inlet.
Day 2—Continue to explore the Anchorage area, spending the
day at the Alaska Native Heritage Center, the Tony Knowles
Coastal Trail, Hatcher Pass or Chugach State Park. In the
evening, attend a show at the Alaska Center for the
Performing Arts.
Day 3—Make a day trip from Anchorage to Turnagain Arm,
Portage Glacier, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and
Girdwood. As an alternative, book a boat tour of the Prince
William Sound glaciers through Phillips Cruises and Tours.
Return to Anchorage for the night.
Day Plans
To help you make the most of your time in the city, we've
designed three itineraries.
PLAN A
Anchorage Amble
This car-free plan will give you a good overview of the
city. First (if you plan to be in Anchorage at dinnertime),
make reservations at Simon and Seafort's or the Crow's Nest
in the Hotel Captain Cook. Then stop by the visitors center
at Fourth Avenue and F Street for an Anchorage Visitors
Guide and a walking-tour map.
Start your tour across the street at the Alaska Public Lands
Information Center, where you can view videos of Alaska
scenery and wildlife, buy books and maps, and get
information about Denali and other state and federal parks.
Take a moment to look at the several interesting and
historic buildings in the area: the old City Hall directly
across the street (the yard there offers free "music in the
park" at noon each Wednesday and Friday in summer) and
Stewart's Photo Shop within the block, to the east. Both are
buildings from Anchorage's earliest settlement.
If the weather is nice, roam the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail
on foot or on a bicycle (you get onto the trail at the west
end of Fifth Avenue). Spend as much time as you can looking
for beluga whales, waterfowl and shorebirds in Cook Inlet.
Return to the trailhead and, if it's lunchtime, grab a bite
to eat from one of the street vendors along Fourth Avenue
between E and G streets, or pop into the Downtown Deli and
Cafe or Snow City Cafe on Fourth Avenue. Spend your
afternoon doing some shopping in the downtown area, then
walk to the Anchorage Museum at 625 C St. Later, enjoy the
view while dining at Simon and Seafort's or the Crow's Nest.
PLAN B
Tundra, Glacier and Musk Oxen
Pack a picnic lunch—including insect repellent—and pick up a
copy of The Milepost. Available at most bookstores and
grocery stores, it indicates the gas stops and the photo
ops. Point your rental car east on the Glenn Highway and
spend an hour or two at the Alaska Native Heritage Center.
Then cruise past Elmendorf Air Force Base and Fort
Richardson (the high chain-link fence along the road is
there to keep moose off the highway). Turn off at the
Thunderbird Falls exit and make the easy 1-mi/1.6-km hike to
the falls.
Continue on to Eklutna Historical Park and Eklutna Lake. As
you approach the lake, look for Dall sheep on the slopes to
your left. Plan ahead and take advantage of the picnic area.
The glacier-fed lake is too cold for swimming, but a nearly
level path follows the east side of the lake.
Return to Glenn Highway and head east through Palmer, home
of the Alaska State Fair. At Milepost 50, you can turn left
and tour the Musk Ox Farm to see the big, shaggy animals up
close. If you have time, continue northeast 50 mi/80 km to a
turnout with a great view of Matanuska Glacier. Or you can
drive to Hatcher Pass. This 50-mi/80-km drive takes you
through high tundra in the Talkeetna Mountains, crosses a
pass at just under 4,000 ft/1,200 m and deposits you onto
Parks Highway, 70 mi/115 km from Anchorage. Visit the
Independence Mine State Historical Park and then head south
on Parks Highway through the town of Wasilla, where you'll
get back on Glenn Highway to return to the big city.
PLAN C
Moose, Marsh and More
Start with a big Alaskan breakfast at Gwennie's Old Alaska
Restaurant on Spenard Road. Pick up some picnic supplies,
and then drive to Kincaid Park at the west end of Raspberry
Road (off southbound Minnesota Drive). If you want to get
some exercise, rent a bike. You can reach the park by
bicycle via the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail from downtown; it
is 11 mi/18 km one way. Look for moose (but don't get too
close) and stop at Little Campbell Lake. If you can block
out the sound of aircraft landing beyond the screen of trees
at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, you'll think
you're at a remote spot in the backcountry. One of the best
views from this park is from the yard of the Kincaid Outdoor
Center (which has public-use facilities). If it is a clear
day, you will see the Alaska Range, culminating to the north
with Mount McKinley.
Take Seward Highway south out of town to Potter Marsh. You
can park, walk along a boardwalk and see shorebirds and
waterfowl that nest in the area. If you're lucky enough to
be there in early summer, you'll see families of ducks,
Canada geese and perhaps even migrating trumpeter swans.
Bald eagles may be hunting in the area. Salmon spawn
underneath the boardwalk in July. Just south of the marsh on
the opposite side of the highway is the historic Potter
Section House, headquarters for Chugach State Park, where
you can get maps and other park information from within a
retired Alaska Railroad car, now used as an information
center.
Go from sea level into the mountains by heading east on
O'Malley Road to the Glen Alps parking lot. This is the
take-off point for a hike to Flattop Mountain. If you're not
up to the 3-mi/5-km round-trip hike, there's an overlook
near the parking lot where you can take in the view of the
Anchorage Bowl.
Dining
Dining Overview
Anchorage is large enough to offer dining choices well
beyond what travelers might expect so far north. You can
start the day with sourdough pancakes in a bustling family
restaurant, stop by New Sagaya City Market for a filling
Chinese deli lunch, and then relax at a gourmet restaurant
when evening arrives. You'll find restaurants from many
Asian cultures (including Thai, Vietnamese, Korean, Japanese
and Chinese), along with Mexican, Italian, Indian and Greek
establishments.
Commercial fishing is an important part of Alaska's economy,
and fresh seafood is a mainstay at many Anchorage
restaurants. The state is famous for its salmon (especially
king and red salmon), which is nearly always wild—not
farm-raised. Fresh halibut, with its beautiful white meat
and delicious flavor, is another favorite from the local
waters, as are crabs (notably king crab), oysters and clams.
Every chef has a unique way of preparing seafood, and some
from the Anchorage area have gained national recognition.
A number of Anchorage's most enjoyable restaurants are in
the heart of downtown, but others are scattered around this
rather spread-out city. Reaching those in small, midtown
strip malls or on the south end of town will require either
a car or good knowledge of the bus schedule.
General dining times are 7-11 am for breakfast and noon-4 pm
for lunch. Driven to extremes by the midnight sun, many
residents and visitors alike find themselves eating dinner
as late as 10 pm in the summer months.
Expect to pay within these general guidelines for a dinner
for one, not including drinks, tax or tip: $ = less than
US$10; $$ = US$10-$25; $$$ = US$26-$40; and $$$$ = more than
US$40.
Local & Regional
Crow's Nest
Located on the 20th floor of the Hotel Captain Cook, this
restaurant wins the dining-with-a-view prize. Most of the
seats are along large windows, and some face Mount McKinley.
The award-winning menu changes frequently, although the
specialty is Alaskan seafood, especially Copper River king
salmon and halibut. It includes five courses, with matched
wines from the 10,000-bottle wine cellar (one of Alaska's
largest). Monday-Saturday for dinner only. Reservations
required. $$$-$$$$. Most major credit cards. 939 W. Fifth
Ave., Anchorage. Phone 907-343-2217. http://www.captaincook.com/restaurants.php.
Glacier BrewHouse
Owned by the same folks who run the adjacent Ristorante Orso,
the Glacier BrewHouse is a lively, noisy place with a large
central fireplace and an open kitchen that is always a blur
of activity. The menu changes daily, but specialties include
fresh, local seafood, thin-crust pizzas, pastas and luscious
desserts. You simply can't go wrong there. The gleaming brew
kettles are visible through windows in the back—several
varieties are always on tap. Daily for lunch and dinner.
Reservations recommended, especially on weekends. $$. Most
major credit cards. 737 W. Fifth Ave., Anchorage. Phone
907-274-2739. http://www.glacierbrewhouse.com.
Marx Brothers' Cafe
Alaska's most acclaimed restaurant for more than two
decades, it's a tiny place with an ever-changing menu. A few
items are standbys: Van's Caesar salads made at your table,
rack of lamb, elk bourguignon and freshly made birch-syrup
butter-pecan ice cream—as well as specialties from the sea.
Open May-September Tuesday-Saturday and October-April
Tuesday-Thursday for dinner. Reservations required well in
advance. $$$-$$$$. Most major credit cards. 627 W. Third
Ave., Anchorage. Phone 907-278-2133. http://www.marxcafe.com.
Moose's Tooth Pub and Pizzeria
This immensely popular Anchorage brewpub has a winning
combination of good beer and unusual pizzas, including
blackened halibut and Chicken Rockefeller. It's located in
Midtown, and the inside has a tie-dye and Rasta theme. Its
steady flow of customers means the noise level is always
high. The same folks operate another Anchorage institution,
Bear Tooth Theatre Pub (1230 W. 27th Ave., phone
907-276-4200; http://beartooththeatre.net), with low-priced
movies and tasty meals served inside the theater or in two
adjacent restaurants. Daily for lunch and dinner. $-$$. Most
major credit cards. 3300 Old Seward Highway, Anchorage.
Phone 907-258-2537. http://www.moosestooth.net.
Seven Glaciers Restaurant
Dine at 2,300 ft/713 m with panoramic views of the Chugach
Mountains, including seven hanging glaciers and the
Turnagain Arm of Cook Inlet. The food is as good as the
view. Try the Alaska king crab legs, mesquite-grilled Angus
beef tenderloin or the seafood bisque—and for dessert, a
baked Alyeska. Daily for dinner. 1000 Arlberg Ave. (at
Alyeska Resort), Girdwood. Phone 907-754-2237. http://www.alyeskaresort.com/dining/seven-glaciers-restaurant.aspx.
Simon & Seafort's
This popular restaurant has big windows facing Cook Inlet,
making it a great place to watch the sun circle across the
summer horizon. Fresh Alaskan seafood and buttery aged prime
rib are the top choices, but anything on the menu is bound
to please. The bar serves lighter fare, along with the
restaurant menu, and usually has space if you didn't make a
reservation for the dining room. For lunch, get the
open-faced, oven-roasted, red king crab and artichoke
sandwich. Monday-Friday for lunch, daily for dinner.
Reservations recommended. $$$-$$$$. Most major credit cards.
420 L St., Anchorage. Phone 907-274-3502. http://www.simonandseaforts.com.
Sourdough Mining Company
Charming and rustic, this touristy eatery in the Alaska Wild
Berry Park has home-style all-you-can-eat meals of corn
fritters, baby back ribs and other barbecue. It also offers
halibut and salmon, sourdough bread, steaks and more. A
create-your-own-ice-cream-sundae bar is included. A
half-hour humorous and historical show, The Adventures of
Dusty Sourdough, takes place under a tent outside the
restaurant after dinner, making this especially popular with
tour groups. The show is free, and so is the shuttle ride to
any Anchorage hotel. Daily for lunch and dinner, Sunday
brunch 10 am-2 pm. Reservations recommended. $$-$$$. Most
major credit cards. 5200 Juneau St., Anchorage. Phone
907-563-2272. http://www.sourdoughmining.com.
Cuisines
American
Arctic Roadrunner
A favorite among Alaskans and visitors for generations, this
burger place is packed with character. Almost museumlike,
its walls are covered with photos from decades of Alaskan
history, along with trapping and mining memorabilia,
wildlife mounts and more. Yet it is the food that has
everyone all worked up: salmon burgers, halibut burgers and
hamburgers with special-recipe fries. Every year, locals
vote for their favorite burger joint, and every year the
Arctic Roadrunner places at the top. This place is casual,
busy and neat as a pin, and it offers a warm welcome for
all. There's a second location at 2477 Arctic Blvd. (phone
907-279-7311), but the original Old Seward Highway spot has
more historical mementos, plus creekside patio dining so you
can watch salmon swimming upstream. Daily for lunch and
dinner. $. No credit cards. 5300 Old Seward Highway,
Anchorage. Phone 907-561-1245.
Double Musky
This restaurant is popular with locals and skiers from
nearby Alyeska Ski Resort. Savor the New Orleans-style food,
from Cajun cuisine to seafood pasta, and the lively (and
noisy) atmosphere. Try the coconut-salmon appetizer, shrimp
etouffee, crab-stuffed halibut and the double musky pie for
dessert. If you arrive as the place it opens, you should get
a table. Tuesday-Thursday 5-10 pm, Saturday and Sunday
4:30-10 pm. Reservations not accepted. $$$-$$$$. Most major
credit cards. Crow Creek Road (at mile marker 0.3, about 40
mi/64 km south of Anchorage), Girdwood. Phone 907-783-2822.
http://www.doublemuskyinn.com.
Sacks Cafe
This is one of the trendiest spots in town, with artsy decor
and creative cooking, including tomato-Gorgonzola soup, a
sirloin cheeseburger, duck, New Zealand rack of lamb and
superb desserts. Vegetarian specials are always available,
and the cafe features a wine bar and Sunday brunch, too.
Listen to live jazz Thursday evening (no cover); piano jazz
is featured on Sunday. Daily for lunch and dinner.
Reservations required for dinner, recommended for lunch.
$$-$$$. Most major credit cards. 328 G St., Anchorage. Phone
907-276-3546. http://www.sackscafe.com.
Southside Bistro
This fine-dining restaurant offers a diverse menu,
innovative presentation and delightful ambience. It has an
interesting clientele among the who's who in Alaska.
Favorites include lamb, venison, grouse, salmon and other
meats, complemented by good wines. Tuesday-Saturday for
lunch and dinner. Reservations recommended in spring and
fall, required in summer. $$$-$$$$. Most major credit cards.
1320 Huffman Park Drive, Anchorage. Phone 907-348-0088.
http://www.southsidebistro.com.
Asian
Bombay Deluxe Indian Restaurant
Despite a strip-mall location and simple decor, this Indian
restaurant serves up consistently good meals, including such
specials as palak chicken and lamb korma. The weekday lunch
buffet is especially popular and includes a number of
vegetarian dishes. Additional locations in Wasilla and Eagle
River. Monday-Saturday for lunch and dinner, Sunday for
dinner. Takeout and delivery also available. $$. Most major
credit cards. 555 W. Northern Lights Blvd., Anchorage. Phone
907-277-1200. http://www.bombaydeluxe.com.
Chiang Mai Thai Restaurant
This very popular midtown restaurant is one of a handful of
Thai eateries in Anchorage. It's a friendly, family-run
place with fast service and enough room for the kids to play
without disturbing other guests. Fresh spring rolls are
always a hit as a starter, and the menu includes all the
Thai standards. Portions are big. Monday-Friday for lunch
and dinner, Saturday for dinner only. Closed Sunday. $$.
Most major credit cards. 3637 Old Seward Highway, Anchorage.
Phone 907-563-8900.
Kumagoro Japanese Restaurant
When you step into this Japanese restaurant, the jungle of
hanging plants immediately grabs your attention. The house
specialty is the shabu-shabu dinner cooked at your table,
but you'll also find more modest fare, including freshly
made udon noodle soups and an evening sushi bar. Daily for
lunch and dinner. $$-$$$. Most major credit cards. 533 W.
Fourth Ave., Anchorage. Phone 907-272-9905. http://www.kumagoroalaska.com.
Greek
The Greek Corner
A small restaurant in midtown with charming staff and
atmosphere. Try the souvlaki, stuffed eggplant or pasticcio,
or the combination Greek platter if you can't decide. It
offers a number of traditional Italian dishes, too.
Monday-Saturday for lunch and dinner, Sunday for dinner
only. $$-$$$. Most major credit cards. 201 E. Northern
Lights Blvd. (across from Barnes & Noble), Anchorage. Phone
907-276-2820.
Italian
Little Italy Restaurante
Both authentic and romantic, this is a true find for Italian
cuisine. Favorites include calamari rings and cannelloni
alla rosini. This restaurant also offers a variety of Greek
entrees, including roast leg of lamb and moussaka, along
with a good selection of Greek wines. Daily for dinner.
Reservations recommended. $$-$$$. Most major credit cards.
2300 E. 88th St., Anchorage. Phone 907-344-1515.
Orso
This classy downtown eatery offers inspired Italian dishes
with an Alaskan touch. Try the wild-mushroom ravioli with
smoked salmon. The desserts are wonderful, too, most notably
the molten chocolate cake. Monday-Friday for lunch and
dinner, Saturday and Sunday for brunch and dinner.
Reservations recommended for dinner. $$$-$$$$. Most major
credit cards. 737 W. Fifth Ave., Anchorage. Phone
907-222-3232. http://www.orsoalaska.com.
Sorrento's
A friendly and helpful staff, nice mood lighting and relaxed
atmosphere make this a good choice for visiting or reviewing
the day's adventures. It offers consistently excellent
dishes such as chicken parmigiana, spaghetti alforno, many
seafood dishes and a wide selection of pizzas. Daily for
dinner. $$. Most major credit cards. 610 E. Fireweed Lane,
Anchorage. Phone 907-278-3439.
Mexican
La Mex
Locals go for the good Mexican food and the grande
margaritas. Try the generous combination platters or dinner
plates such as the halibut-stuffed tacos with lime sauce and
fresh fruit salsa. Affordable, delicious food in an
atmosphere that caters to families and couples. There's a
second location at 8330 King St. (phone 907-344-6399), but
the one on Spenard Road is more convenient to downtown.
Daily for lunch and dinner. $$. Most major credit cards.
2550 Spenard Road, Anchorage. Phone 907-274-7511. http://www.homeofthegrande.com.
Mexico in Alaska
One of the oldest and best Mexican restaurants in the state,
it is almost certainly the most authentic. The menu includes
all the standards, plus a vegetarian menu and such
specialties as tacos al pastor and chicken in mole sauce.
Monday-Saturday for lunch and dinner. Closed Sunday. $$-$$$.
Most major credit cards. Discover Card not accepted. 7305
Old Seward Highway, Anchorage. Phone 907-349-1528. http://www.mexicoinalaska.com.
Vegetarian
Middle Way Cafe
This very popular, cozy and inviting little cafe specializes
in sandwiches (most of which are vegetarian), wraps,
smoothies, espresso and salads. It offers a fresh-juice bar.
Tuesday evening is Irish dance night with the coffee bar
available. Open daily for breakfast and lunch. $. Most major
credit cards. 1200 W. Northern Lights Blvd., Anchorage.
Phone 907-272-6433.
Organic Oasis Restaurant & Juice Bar
The menu at this friendly place includes soups, salads, tofu
burgers, sandwiches, smoothies and even organic Alaskan beer
and wine. Almost everything is vegetarian, but organic meats
are also on the menu. Live music or other events most
nights. Wi-Fi is available. Daily for lunch and dinner.
$-$$. Most major credit cards. 2610 Spenard Road, Anchorage.
Phone 907-277-7882. http://www.organicoasis.com.
Breakfast & Brunch
Gwennie's Old Alaska Restaurant
This classic Anchorage breakfast stop (it's busiest in the
morning) serves sourdough pancakes, reindeer sausage,
omelettes and other local favorites. Lunches and dinners
feature smoked salmon, steaks and Alaskan king crab.
Historical photos (including a picture attesting to a visit
by former U.S. President Jimmy Carter) and Alaska
memorabilia line the walls. Daily for breakfast, lunch and
dinner. Breakfast served all day. $-$$. Most major credit
cards. 4333 Spenard Road, Anchorage. Phone 907-243-2090.
http://www.gwenniesrestaurant.com.
Snow City Cafe
This friendly little downtown cafe serves filling,
award-winning breakfasts all day, plus fresh Alaskan
seafood, inspired salads, pastas, reindeer reubens and a
justly popular meat loaf. Try the crabby omelette or Kodiak
Benedict. Rotating exhibits of local artwork line the walls,
and hors d'oeuvres are served on the first Friday of each
month. Call to reserve a table at least an hour in advance
on weekend mornings. Daily for breakfast and lunch. $-$$.
Most major credit cards. 1034 W. Fourth Ave., Anchorage.
Phone 907-272-2489. http://www.snowcitycafe.com.
The Flying Machine
Located alongside Lake Hood, this hotel restaurant is best
known for its enormous Sunday champagne brunch. The spread
includes made-to-order omelettes, baked goods, reindeer
sausages, king crab (in season), roast beef, grilled salmon,
fruit crepes, pancakes, Belgian waffles and much more. It's
a fun way to splurge. On warm days, sit on the deck and
watch the floatplanes taking off. Daily for breakfast, lunch
and dinner. $$$. Most major credit cards. 4800 Spenard Road
(in the Millennium Hotel), Anchorage. Phone 907-243-2300.
Cafes & Tearooms
Downtown Deli and Cafe
Located across the street from the Log Cabin Visitors
Center, this little deli and cafe combination has been
serving visitors since the 1980s. It's a great place to
enjoy a sandwich and soup, people-watch from sidewalk
seating, and take a break when you're tired of tramping up
and down Fourth Avenue. You can also get a good breakfast of
blintzes or lox and bagels. Free Wi-Fi. Daily for breakfast,
lunch and dinner. Most major credit cards. 525 W. Fourth
Ave., Anchorage. Phone 907-276-7116.
Coffeehouses
Cake Studio Bakery and Boutique
Delightfully decadent mousse, cakes, cupcakes, fudge,
cookies, croissants and specialty desserts make this a
popular place to relax with a cup of Raven's Brew coffee.
Try the Peanut Butter Blast. Open Monday-Friday 7 am-10 pm,
Saturday 9 am-10 pm, Sunday 9 am-8 pm. 608 W. Fourth Ave.,
No. 102, Anchorage. Phone 907-272-3995. http://www.alaskacakestudio.com.
Europa Bakery
One of the finest bakeries in Alaska. The artisan breads are
in the thick-crusted European style. Stop by at lunchtime
for a fresh sandwich, steaming cup of soup and a tasty
dessert from the display case. The staff also makes a mean
latte. Daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. $. No credit
cards. 601 W. 36th Ave., Anchorage. Phone 907-563-5704.
Kaladi Brothers Coffee Company and Brayton Cafe
This coffee company roasts its own beans and has coffee for
sale at 12 locations around Anchorage. Kaladi Brothers
offers a nice range of sweets along with wonderful coffee
blends, espressos, chai and other specialty drinks. Open
daily. 6921 Brayton Drive, Anchorage. Phone 907-344-4480.
http://www.kaladi.com.
Modern Dwellers Chocolate Lounge
Indulgent house-made chocolate truffles and espresso make
this the perfect place to re-energize. Also available are
chocolate bars from around the world. There is a second
location at 751 E. 36th Ave. (phone 907-677-9985). Open
Monday 11 am-6 pm, Tuesday-Thursday 8 am-8 pm, Friday 8
am-10 pm, Saturday 10 am-10 pm, Sunday 11 am-6 pm. 423 G.
St., Anchorage. Phone 907-868-1818. http://www.moderndwellers.com.
The Bagel Factory
This is a local favorite for fresh bagels in numerous
flavors, as well as omelettes, soups, sandwiches, fresh
blintzes and espresso. Pick up a few bagels to take with you
or order a sandwich for a picnic. Monday-Saturday for
breakfast and lunch. $. Most major credit cards. 142 W. 34th
Ave., Anchorage. Phone 907-561-8871.
Steak Houses
Club Paris
This downtown institution, housed in a former mortuary,
specializes in mouthwatering dinners of 4-in-/10-cm-thick
filet mignon, and the Alaskan seafood is good, too. At
lunchtime you can get a burger or sandwich, pastas and
salads. Save room for the chocolate-sweet potato pie.
Monday-Saturday for lunch and dinner, Sunday for dinner
only. Reservations recommended. $$$-$$$$. Most major credit
cards. 417 W. Fifth Ave., Anchorage. Phone 907-277-6332.
http://www.clubparisrestaurant.com.
Security
Personal Safety
Alaska's largest city has a well-deserved reputation as a
particularly friendly community. Most visitors feel right at
home there, striking up conversations with strangers and
quickly establishing friendships. There are several cautions
worth noting, however.
Under no circumstances should you walk out on the mudflats
that extend out from the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail to the
water's edge of Cook Inlet. Take binoculars if you want to
bird-watch or look for belugas, but do not step out onto
this benign-looking surface. The Cook Inlet (and down into
Turnagain Arm) is composed almost entirely of quicksandlike
glacial silt, and lives have been lost to it.
Anchorage has healthy bear and moose populations. If you
encounter wildlife while you're on one of the trails or even
in the city, make noise to let the animal know you're there.
Don't run, and do not attempt to feed any wild animals. For
more rules about wildlife safety, see http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/safety/bears.htm.
Anchorage is not a dangerous city. There isn't any area of
the city where criminals target tourists, nor are there
particular crimes that target tourists, such as organized
pickpocketing or purse-snatching, but crimes of all types do
occasionally occur. Using common sense will keep you in
possession of your valuables and out of trouble. It isn't a
good idea to go by yourself on a city trail late at night,
even if there is daylight. Take a friend or friends along.
Late-night trail assaults are uncommon but worth taking
precautions against nonetheless.
As always, you should lock car doors and avoid leaving
valuable items clearly visible inside vehicles, especially
on Earthquake Park trails. Downtown is very safe to walk
around, particularly in summer when it gets dark for only a
few hours each day. Visitors frequently encounter
individuals with alcohol-abuse problems downtown, especially
near bars along Fourth Avenue. There are a few neighborhoods
that are devoid of tourist attractions and not particularly
attractive to travelers. These include Mountain View
(northeast of downtown) and Fairview (southeast of
downtown). Travelers would be wise to avoid these areas.
Dial 911 in an emergency to call the police, the fire
department or an ambulance.
Health
In Anchorage, you won't need to take special precautions
about water. Be warned that mosquitoes and other biting bugs
are a nuisance both in and outside of Anchorage during
summer months. Use a good insect repellent, preferably one
containing deet, to defend yourself from Alaska's unofficial
"state bird."
If you go for a hike outside the city, don't drink untreated
water from lakes or streams. No matter how pristine the area
seems, you should always assume that people and animals have
been upstream. Also, take an extra layer of clothing with
you in case the temperature drops. Carry a cell phone for
emergencies, but be aware that it may not work in more
remote areas. Finally, let someone in the city know where
you are going and when you expect to return.
For emergencies in Anchorage or south of the city, contact
the Providence Medical Center (phone 907-562-2211). North of
Anchorage, you may consider the Valley Medical Center at the
south side of Wasilla. Phone 907-861-6000.
Disabled Advisory
In general, Alaska is not very accessible for people with
disabilities, although the city of Anchorage is better than
most places. Buses (the Anchorage People Mover), trains,
cruise ships and ferries all accommodate travelers in
wheelchairs or with limited mobility. Many lodging places,
particularly the newer hotels, offer accessible rooms.
Alaska Yellow Cab has lift-equipped van service. Phone
907-222-2222.
Access Alaska is a nonprofit organization that distributes a
free listing of travel resources for people with
disabilities. Phone 907-248-4777. Toll-free in Alaska
800-770-4488. http://www.accessalaska.org.
Dos & Don'ts
Do be prepared to remove your shoes or boots upon entering a
house. Many Alaskan homes (and most bed-and-breakfasts) have
a no-shoes policy, particularly in the winter, when snowy
boots can make a mess.
Do use caution when driving on the highway, especially after
dark, as moose and other wildlife may dart across without
warning.
Don't feed the wildlife, and do dispose of garbage properly.
The city has had a problem with bears wandering into the
city after food.
Do turn on your headlights when driving on the highway.
Do take insect repellent during summer months.
Do take an eye mask if light bothers you. Anchorage
experiences 17-21 hours of daylight during summer months.
Because of the daylight, don't expect to see the aurora
borealis (northern lights) during the summer months.
Do make reservations at restaurants and rental car companies
during summer months.
Hotels
Hotel Overview
Anchorage has an abundance of hotel and motel rooms, as well
as bed-and-breakfasts. Many properties are located downtown,
making it convenient for visitors to see the city on foot.
Motels near the airport will not be convenient for
sightseers without a vehicle. During peak summer season
(July and August), you should make reservations well in
advance, preferably several months ahead. Not surprisingly,
prices are at their peak then. If you brave the city in
winter, you'll find the rates substantially lower and the
pace much more relaxed.
Hotel Listings
Phone: (1) 907-276-6000
Fax: (1) 907-343-2298
Toll Free: (1) 800-843-1950
Hotel Captain Cook
939 W 5th Ave 99501
info@captaincook.com http://www.captaincook.com
547 Guest Rooms • 14 Meeting Rooms • Restaurant[s]
Location: Heart of downtown
Nearby Points of Interest: Anchorage Museum (Alaskan art) -
7 blk • Performing Arts Center (Broadway plays/music) - 2
blk • Coastal Trail (hiking/walking/bikin) - 2 blk
Phone: (1) 907-245-0322
Fax: (1) 907-248-1886
Toll Free: (1) 800-321-2211
Courtyard by Marriott
4901 Spenard Rd 99517
http://www.courtyard.com
154 Guest Rooms • 2 Meeting Rooms • Restaurant[s]
Location: Hotel is located one mile from the International
Airport
Nearby Points of Interest: Alaska Zoo (Zoo) - 9 mi • Alaska
Performing Arts Center (Point of interest) - 5
mi • Anchorage Museum of History and Arts (Museum) - 6 mi
Phone: (1) 907-770-5000
Fax: (1) 907-770-5001
Toll Free: (1) 866-770-5002
Dimond Center Hotel
700 E Dimond Blvd 99515
inf@dimondcenterhotel.com http://www.dimondcenterhotel.com
109 Guest Rooms • 3 Meeting Rooms • Restaurant[s]
Location: Heart of Anchorage's busiest shopping district
Nearby Points of Interest: Alaska Zoo (Zoo) - 4 mi • H2O
Oasis (Water Park) - 3 mi • Portage Glacier (Glacier Park) -
45 mi
Phone: (1) 907-868-1605
Fax: (1) 907-868-3520
Toll Free: (1) 888-506-7848
Extended Stay Deluxe Anchorage-Downtown
108 E Eighth Ave 99501
AND@extendedstay.com http://www.extendedstayhotels.com
89 Guest Rooms • 2 Meeting Rooms
Location: Located in the heart of downtown Anchorage
Nearby Points of Interest: Anchorage Museum (Museum) - 2 blk • 5th
Ave Mall (Shopping Mall) - 2 blk • Performng Arts Center
(Cultural Venue) - 4 blk
Phone: (1) 907-272-7411
Fax: (1) 907-265-7044
Toll Free: (1) 800-HILTONS
Hilton Anchorage
500 W Third Ave 99501
http://www.hilton.com
606 Guest Rooms • 12 Meeting Rooms • Restaurant[s] • Pets
Allowed
Location: 1 block from Egan Conv Ctr and Anchorage Ctr for
Performing Arts
Nearby Points of Interest: Tony Knowles Coastal Trail
(Community Trail) - 2 blk • Anchorage Museum of History &
Art (Museum) - 4 blk • 5th Ave Shopping mall (Shopping mall)
- 2 blk
Phone: (1) 907-272-4553
Fax: (1) 907-277-4483
Toll Free: (1) 800-544-0988
Historic Anchorage Hotel
330 E St 99501
anchoragehotel@alaska.com http://www.historicanchoragehotel.com
26 Guest Rooms • 2 Meeting Rooms • Restaurant[s]
Location: Downtown, 1 Block to Convention Center
Nearby Points of Interest: Anchorage Museum of History & Art
(mueseum) - 5 blk • Convention Center (convention center) -
1 blk • Performing Arts Center (theater) - 2 blk
Phone: (1) 907-276-0110
Fax: (1) 907-258-4914
Toll Free: (1) 800-544-0786
Inlet Tower Hotel & Suites
1200 L St 99501
info@inlettower.com http://www.inlettower.com
164 Guest Rooms • 2 Meeting Rooms • Restaurant[s] • Pets
Allowed
Location: Minutes away from downtown
Nearby Points of Interest: Shopping (Downtown Shopping) - .8
mi • William A Egan Civic & Convention Center (Convention
Center) - .7 mi • Alaska Center for the Performing Arts
(Arts-performances) - .7 mi
Phone: (1) 907-279-8000
Fax: (1) 907-279-8005
Toll Free: (1) 800-228-9290
Marriott Downtown Anchorage
820 W 7th Ave 99501
ancdt@columbiasussex.com http://www.marriott.com/ancdt
395 Guest Rooms • 11 Meeting Rooms • Restaurant[s]
Nearby Points of Interest: Anchorage Museum of History and
Art (Museum) - 6 blk • Alaska Native Heritage Center
(Museum) - 6 mi • Anchorage Zoo (Zoo) - 8 mi
Phone: (1) 907-243-2300
Fax: (1) 907-243-8815
Toll Free: (1) 800-544-0553
Millennium Alaskan Hotel Anchorage
4800 Spenard Rd 99517
http://www.millenniumhotels.com
248 Guest Rooms • 7 Meeting Rooms • Restaurant[s] • Pets
Allowed
Location: Central location, 4 miles to downtown and 1.5
miles to airport
Nearby Points of Interest:
Phone: (1) 907-277-9501
Fax: (1) 907-274-0333
Toll Free: (1) 800-247-9070
Rodeway Inn
501 K St 99501
rsvp@alaska.com http://www.voyagerhotel.com
40 Guest Rooms • Restaurant[s]
Location: 4 blks from conv center
Nearby Points of Interest: Anchorage Museum (Museum) - 8 blk • Alaska
Experience (Theater) - 2 blk • Performance Arts Center
(Performance Center) - 3 blk
Phone: (1) 907-276-8700
Fax: (1) 907-267-7561
Toll Free: (1) 800-325-3535
Sheraton Anchorage Hotel & Spa
401 E Sixth Ave 99501
info@sheratonanchoragehotel.com http://www.sheratonanchoragehotel.com
375 Guest Rooms • 10 Meeting Rooms • Restaurant[s]
Location: Downtown
Nearby Points of Interest: Anchorage Museum of History and
Art • Alaska Experience Theater • Alaska Public Lands
Information Center
Phone: (1) 907-562-3247
Fax: (1) 907-562-3250
Toll Free: (1) 800-314-0783
SpringHill Suites by Marriott
3401 A St 99503
http://www.springhillsuites.com
101 Guest Rooms • 1 Meeting Room
Nearby Points of Interest:
Phone: (1) 907-276-7676
Fax: (1) 907-276-3615
Toll Free: (1) 800-544-0970
Westmark Anchorage
720 W 5th Ave 99501
wmanc-dc@hollandamerica.com http://www.westmarkhotels.com
198 Guest Rooms • 5 Meeting Rooms • Restaurant[s]
Location: Central downtown, next door to convention centre
Nearby Points of Interest: Egan Convention Center
(Convention Center) - 1 blk • Performing Arts Center
(Performance Center) - 1 blk • 5th Ave Mall (Shopping
Center) - 2 blk
Facts
Geostats
Passport/Visa Requirements: All U.S. citizens must have a
passport when traveling by air to or from Bermuda, Canada,
the Caribbean, Central and South America and Mexico.
Citizens of Canada, Mexico and the British Overseas
Territory of Bermuda must have a passport or other
designated secure document to enter the U.S. Citizens of
Australia and the U.K. need a passport but usually do not
require a visa for stays of 90 days or less.
Because the terms of the visa-waiver program are subject to
change, it's wise to check with a U.S. Embassy prior to
travel. Reconfirm travel document requirements with your
carrier before departure.
Population: 279,671.
Languages: Primarily English. About 20 Alaska Native
languages and dialects are spoken in Alaskan villages.
Predominant Religions: Christian (Protestant and Roman
Catholic), although every major religion is represented.
Time Zone: 9 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (-9 GMT).
Daylight Saving Time is observed from the second Sunday in
March to the first Sunday in November.
Voltage Requirements: 110 volts.
Telephone Codes: 907, area code;
Money
Currency Exchange
Credit cards and traveler's checks in U.S. dollars are
widely accepted around the city. If you need cash, you can
use a major credit card or bank card to get U.S. dollars
from an ATM. Most banks have ATMs, and you'll also find them
at grocery stores and in shopping malls. Foreign currency
can be exchanged at banks and at the airport.
Taxes
There is no sales tax in Anchorage or the Anchorage Borough.
A sales tax that varies from town to town is applied in the
Kenai Peninsula Borough south of Anchorage and in the
Matanuska Susitna Borough north of Anchorage.
Tipping
The waitstaff at a restaurant is typically given 15%-20% of
the total bill (more for exemplary service). Other
individuals who provide personal services (such as tour-bus
drivers, fishing guides, flightseeing pilots, housekeeping,
coffee baristas and taxi drivers) are also commonly tipped,
but there is no set amount. You might want to ask around
discreetly to get an idea of the appropriate amount, or just
use your judgment.
Weather
Anchorage has a temperate maritime climate, with cool
summers and cold winters. The average annual temperature is
a chilly 36 F/2 C. The area gets only around 15 in/40 cm of
rain annually, but expect cloudy weather—more than 50% of
the time—in summer. The city receives an average of 69
in/175 cm of snow annually.
June-August high temperatures are commonly in the 60s F/high
teens C and can reach into the upper 70s F/mid-20s C on warm
days. Winter temperatures are cold (but much milder than in
Fairbanks and other parts of interior Alaska), with typical
January nights around 6 F/-14 C. Periods of extreme cold are
not uncommon in the winter.
Anchorage never gets completely dark in the middle of
summer, and the summer solstice (20 or 21 June) is a time
for celebration, with more than 19 hours of sunshine. The
reverse occurs in winter, and by the winter solstice in late
December, the city sees only about five hours of light.
Because of the long days and mild conditions, summer is when
the vast majority of travelers go to Alaska. But winter also
attracts its share of visitors, including hardy souls who go
to take in the spectacular northern lights or to enjoy a
dogsledding adventure.
What to Wear
Alaskans are quite informal, and dress-up occasions are
rare. Business casual is about as spiffed up as you would
ever need or want to be. Jeans or khakis and comfortable
shirts and sweaters are the norm around town. Business
travelers will be hard-pressed to find an Alaskan in a suit
or tie for meetings, so don't bother packing those items
unless you like to stand out in a crowd. You may see a
couple in formal wear for an evening out on the town, but it
is never required by dining or entertainment venues.
Even in summer, pack a light jacket or sweater for chilly
evenings, plus a raincoat or umbrella for rainy days. Don't
pack many pairs of shorts, as the temperature rarely gets
high enough to warrant them. Winter travelers should take
several heavy layers of outerwear, long underwear, gloves, a
warm hat and winter boots. Regardless of the season, it's
best to dress in layers so that you can adjust to changing
conditions.
Communication
Telephone
Pay phones are becoming endangered because of ubiquitous
cell phone use. Most government buildings and other
community facilities still have them, but they are rare
elsewhere in Anchorage.
Cell phone service is generally good, but visitors should
check in advance to make sure their company has good
coverage in the Anchorage area. Cell phone coverage varies
in outlying areas.
Internet Access
Anchorage is a very "wired" city, with high-speed Internet
access in most businesses, and an increasing number of cafes
offering wireless services. All of the better hotels have
Internet-ready rooms and/or business suites with Internet
access, and many now also offer Wi-Fi throughout.
Internet access is also available at Barnes & Noble, many
restaurants and on the University of Alaska Anchorage
campus.
Cafe del Mundo
Part of a small chain, this midtown latte shop is a favorite
of businesspeople. It offers free Wi-Fi for customers. There
is a second location at Dimond Center Mall by Best Buy. 341
E. Benson Blvd., Anchorage. Phone 907-274-0026. http://www.cafedelmundo.com.
FedEx Office
These stores offer high-speed Internet access in their
computer workrooms. PC systems are available. US$0.20 per
minute. 300 E. Dimond Blvd., Suite A, and 2210 E. Northern
Lights Blvd., Anchorage. Phone 907-344-0056 (East Dimond
Boulevard) and 907-276-4228.
Kaladi Brothers
These coffee shops offer three Internet cafes in Anchorage.
Wireless and cable network is available at each location.
Open daily. Free Wi-Fi. 6921 Brayton Drive, Anchorage. Phone
907-344-6510. http://www.kaladi.com.
Sub Zero
This hip, smoke-free downtown martini bar has free Wi-Fi for
customers but is only open in the evening. 614 F St.,
Anchorage. Phone 907-276-2337. http://subzeromicrolounge.com.
Mail & Package Services
Post Office
The downtown branch is centrally located. You may want to
call to locate the branch closest to your hotel.
Monday-Friday 10 am-5:30 pm. 344 W. Third Ave., Anchorage.
Phone 907-279-9188. Toll-free 800-275-8777.
Newspapers & Magazines
Anchorage's daily newspaper is the Anchorage Daily News
(http://www.adn.com). It provides complete coverage of
regional, national and international news and has a thick
Friday entertainment section that details coming events.
The Anchorage Press (http://www.anchoragepress.com) is a
free alternative paper available in racks around town. It's
published weekly and offers good nightlife and dining
coverage. Regional weekly newspapers are available
throughout the city. An online Alaska news service is
available at http://www.alaskadispatch.com.
For visitor guides and travel information, refer to http://www.anchorage.net.
Transportation
Downtown Anchorage is readily accessible on foot, and the
city is laid out on a relatively level floodplain. Once you
get away from downtown, the city sprawls to the east and
south in a hodgepodge of neighborhoods and shopping malls.
There is well-posted, if infrequent, bus service to the
suburbs.
The downtown trolley, based out of a gift shop in front of
the Log Cabin Visitors Center on Fourth Avenue, offers
downtown- and midtown-area transportation with scheduled
stops and services.
If you want to explore outside of Anchorage, or to reach
such places as Chugach (pronounced CHEW-gatch) State Park
and sights south of town along Turnagain Arm, you'll
probably want to rent a car. Traffic is generally not heavy,
although the city does experience a rush hour (of sorts) on
weekdays. Taxis are expensive, so they aren't practical for
sightseeing.
Air
Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) is located
5 mi/8 km southwest of downtown. Most travelers use the
domestic terminal, but the airport also has a separate
international terminal connected by shuttle bus. This
ultramodern facility features more dining options, spacious
bookshops and gift shops, expanded seating areas and
dramatic windows facing the mountains. Both the domestic and
international terminals offer interesting exhibits of Alaska
Native artwork and displays of Alaskan wildlife from
life-size polar and brown bears to snow geese. Runway
upgrades should not impact airport visitors. Free Wi-Fi.
Phone 907-266-2526. http://www.anchorageairport.com.
Connecting Transportation
Many of the city's hotels offer shuttle service, which is
the best way to travel to and from the airport. If yours
doesn't, you can board a taxi just outside the baggage-claim
area. Expect to pay around US$30 for a ride to downtown.
City People Mover buses offer inexpensive (US$1.75) service
every half hour 6 am-11 pm alternating between downtown and
the Dimond Center. Consult a schedule prior to your arrival
by calling the People Mover Rideline at 907-343-6543.
Alaska Eagle River Shuttle is a door-to-door shuttle bus
that serves the airport. Rates depend on the distance, but
it's US$30 for one to three people to downtown or US$75 per
hour for door-to-door service. Phone 907-338-8888. http://www.alaskashuttle.net.
One noteworthy but odd development at the airport is the
addition of a US$28 million railway terminal. Unfortunately,
the railroad link will operate only when commissioned by
cruise ships. If you are not given a transfer from a cruise
ship to travel via the railroad to your hotel, do not bother
going to the airport's railroad terminal. The train won't
even be at the airport if the cruise companies don't charter
it in advance.
Bus
Alaska Direct Bus Line
Provides bus connections between Anchorage and other cities
in northern Alaska (including Fairbanks and Delta Junction)
and to Whitehorse in the Canadian Yukon. Phone 907-277-6652.
Toll-free 800-770-6652. http://www.alaskadirectbusline.com.
Alaska/Yukon Trails
Offers year-round service connecting Anchorage with Denali
National Park and Fairbanks, along with summer-only runs
between Fairbanks and Whitehorse and Dawson City in the
Yukon. Toll-free 800-770-7275. http://www.alaskashuttle.com.
Homer Stage Line
Provides van service south from Anchorage to Homer
year-round and to Seward in the summer. Phone 907-868-3914.
http://www.thestageline.net.
Car
Anchorage is a very long drive from anywhere in the
continental U.S. (it's 2,400 mi/3,860 km from Seattle,
Washington). The Glenn Highway enters Anchorage from the
northeast and connects with the Alaska Highway, which leads
through Canada to the Lower 48 states. South of Anchorage,
the Seward Highway provides connections to the Kenai
Peninsula, a popular recreation destination. During summer,
it gets heavy use by both locals and visitors. Be aware that
Alaska law requires slow-moving vehicles, such as
recreational vehicles, to pull over if there are more than
five vehicles behind them. Fortunately, there are periodic
passing lanes and plenty of pullout areas.
Traffic within Anchorage is bad by Alaskan standards but
wholly uncongested compared with cities this size around the
world. During weekday rush hours or following heavy
snowstorms, there are minor backups on the main arteries,
particularly the New Seward Highway and Glenn Highway.
On-street downtown parking can be a challenge at times, but
a space is usually available within a few blocks of where
you want to go. You can also park in lots, the JCPenney
parking garage at Fifth Avenue and E Street, or the city
parking garage at Fifth Avenue and A Street. Parking is not
a problem in other parts of Anchorage.
Public Transportation
The People Mover
This bus system serves the sprawling Anchorage area. It
offers free service downtown but charges a fee for all other
areas. Buses run Monday-Friday 6 am-10 pm, Saturday 8 am-8
pm and Sunday 9:30 am-6:30 pm. US$1.75 adults, US$4 for an
all-day pass (can be purchased on the bus for exact change).
3600 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., Anchorage. Phone
907-343-6543 for the Rideline. http://www.peoplemover.org.
Ship
Although Anchorage has a commercial port facility, it is
used almost entirely for shallow-draft freighter traffic.
Most cruise ships that travel to south-central Alaska dock
at Seward, 127 mi/204 km south of Anchorage on the Kenai
Peninsula, or Whittier, 57 mi/92 km southeast on the west
side of Prince William Sound. Once in Seward or Whittier,
cruise-ship passengers travel to Anchorage by bus or train.
Taxi
Taxi service is available to all parts of Anchorage and can
be summoned by calling the various cab companies. Don't
expect to see taxis cruising the streets except at the
airport and downtown. Some options include Anchorage Checker
Cab (phone 907-274-3333) and Anchorage Yellow Cab (phone
907-272-2422).
Train
Alaska Railroad
The only state-owned railway in the U.S., it offers daily
summer service from Anchorage south to Seward and north to
Denali National Park and Fairbanks. All trains stop at the
depot downtown. 411 W. First Ave., Anchorage. Phone
907-265-2494. Toll-free 800-544-0552. http://www.alaskarailroad.com.
For More Information
Convention & Visitors Bureau
Anchorage Convention and Visitors Bureau
Located in a sod-roofed log cabin near the center of
downtown, the ACVB has hundreds of brochures from local
businesses, plus a helpful staff. It also maintains booths
in the third terminal of the Ted Stevens Anchorage
International Airport near baggage claim. Daily. 524 W.
Fourth Ave. (on the corner of Fourth Avenue and F Street),
Anchorage. Phone 907-276-4118. Toll-free 800-478-1255.
http://www.anchorage.net.
Tourist Offices
Alaska Public Lands Information Center
This popular visitors center focuses on the millions of
acres/hectares of federally owned lands in Alaska, including
national parks, forests and wildlife refuges. The center
includes natural-history displays, a trip-planning computer
and interactive videos. The gift shop sells maps and books
on nature and Alaskan special interests (fiction and
nonfiction). A variety of Alaska-themed movies are screened
in the auditorium, and travelers can book passage on the
Alaska Marine Highway ferry system. Join the Captain Cook
45-minute guided walking tour at 11 am or 2:30 pm
June-August. Take a photo ID for entrance to the historic
Federal Building that houses this facility. Memorial
Day-Labor Day daily, Monday-Friday the rest of the year.
Free. 605 W. Fourth Ave., Suite 105, Anchorage. Phone
907-644-3661. http://www.alaskacenters.gov/anchorage.cfm.
Events
Calendar
Anchorage had a symphony orchestra before it had paved
roads—so it's not surprising that concerts and dance events
are scheduled thick and fast through autumn, winter and
spring at the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts. In
summer, fairs, baseball games and rodeos round out outdoor
entertainment events to take advantage of the midnight sun.
Anchorage's signature event, the Fur Rondy Festival, is held
each winter, in February. It includes numerous winter
dogsled races that attract mushers from all over, who
compete in a weekend racing season that is capped by the
Iditarod in early March.
For more information about upcoming events in Anchorage,
contact the Anchorage Convention and Visitors Bureau. Phone
907-276-4118. http://www.anchorage.net.
To call any of the numbers listed in this calendar from
outside the U.S. or Canada, you must first dial your
country's international access code, followed by the U.S.
country code, 1.
Information in this calendar is subject to change and should
be confirmed.
April 2011
Early-Mid April—ECHL Hockey The Division IAA Alaska Aces
compete at Sullivan Arena, 1600 Gambell St. For information
and tickets, call 907-258-2237. http://www.alaskaaces.com.
Concludes mid April
Early-Mid April—Concert The Anchorage Symphony Orchestra
performs regularly at Evangeline Atwood Concert Hall, Alaska
Center for the Performing Arts, 621 W. Sixth Ave. For
information and tickets, call 907-274-8668. http://www.anchoragesymphony.org.
Concludes mid April
Late April—Native Youth Olympics More than 300 young Native
Americans compete in traditional sporting events. Wells
Fargo Sports Complex, University of Alaska at Anchorage
campus. For information, call 907-793-3600. http://www.citci.com.
Throughout April—Performance With three theaters and eight
resident performing-arts companies, the Alaska Center for
the Performing Arts regularly hosts concerts, Broadway
musicals, dance, choral music and other performances. 621 W.
Sixth Ave. For information, call 907-263-2900. For tickets,
call 907-263-2787. http://www.alaskapac.org. Continues
through late May
May 2011
30 May—Memorial Day Public holiday.
7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29 May—Anchorage Market and
Festival More than 300 vendors congregate downtown to sell
souvenirs, produce, exotic goods and just about everything
else. The event also includes a continuous lineup of live
entertainment. 10 am-6 pm. Third Avenue and E Street parking
lot, downtown. For information, call 907-272-5634. http://www.anchoragemarkets.com/main.html.
Throughout May—Performance With three theaters and eight
resident performing-arts companies, the Alaska Center for
the Performing Arts regularly hosts concerts, Broadway
musicals, dance, choral music and other performances. 621 W.
Sixth Ave. For information, call 907-263-2900. For tickets,
call 907-263-2787. http://www.alaskapac.org. Concludes late
May
June 2011
Early-Late June—Minor-League Baseball Anchorage is home to
two semiprofessional baseball teams, the Anchorage Bucs and
Anchorage Glacier Pilots. Both play under the midnight sun
at Mulcahy Stadium, 16th Avenue and Cordova Street. For
information about Bucs games, call 907-561-2827. http://www.anchoragebucs.com.
For information about Pilots games, call 907-274-3627.
http://www.glacierpilots.com. Continues through early August
Mid June—AWAIC Summer Solstice Festival Celebrity
entertainment, arts-and-crafts booths and plenty of food
highlight this benefit at Town Square near Anchorage's
Performing Arts Center. Admission is free. For information,
call Abused Women's Aid in Crisis at 907-279-9581. http://www.awaic.org.
18 Jun—Mayor's Midnight Sun Marathon More than 4,000 runners
participate in Alaska's largest marathon that is also a
Boston Marathon qualifier. The courses for the Youth Cup,
Five Miler, and full, relay and half-marathons go from the
foothills of the Chugach Mountains past the waters of Cook
Inlet. The simultaneous Summer Solstice Festival in Town
Square attracts celebrity entertainment. For information,
call 907-786-1325. http://www.mayorsmarathon.com.
4, 5, 11, 12 Jun—Three Barons Renaissance Fair Plays, arts
and crafts, living-history demonstrations, performances by
local musicians and food are all part of the festivities.
Tozier Track, 3400 E. Tudor Road. For information, call
907-868-8012. http://www.3barons.org.
4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, 26 Jun—Anchorage Market and
Festival More than 300 vendors congregate downtown to sell
souvenirs, produce, exotic goods and just about everything
else. The event also includes a continuous lineup of live
entertainment. 10 am-6 pm. Third Avenue and E Street parking
lot, downtown. For information, call 907-272-5634. http://www.anchoragemarkets.com/main.html.
July 2011
4 Jul—Freedom Days Festival This Fourth of July celebration
at Mulcahy Stadium features baseball, fireworks and food.
16th Avenue and Cordova Street. For information, call
907-276-4118, or toll-free 800-478-1255.
4 Jul—Independence Day Public holiday. The city sponsors a
daylong series of patriotic, cultural and family-oriented
activities. A charity pancake breakfast begins the day,
followed by a parade that salutes the area's local military
and diverse cultures with marching bands and equestrian
groups. For information, call 907-276-4118, or toll-free
800-478-1255. http://www.anchorage.net.
6-10 Jul—Bear Paw Festival Highlights of this
family-oriented festival include a parade, classic-car show
and carnival. Downtown Eagle River (15 mi/24 km northeast of
Anchorage). For information, call 907-694-4702. http://www.bearpawfestival.org.
2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 23, 24, 30, 31 Jul—Anchorage Market and
Festival More than 300 vendors congregate downtown to sell
souvenirs, produce, exotic goods and just about everything
else. The event also includes a continuous lineup of live
entertainment. 10 am-6 pm. Third Avenue and E Street parking
lot, downtown. For information, call 907-272-5634. http://www.anchoragemarkets.com/main.html.
Late July—Arctic Thunder The U.S. Navy Blue Angels aerial
acrobatic team performs along with U.S. Army Golden Knights
parachuting team. Elmendorf Air Force Base. http://www.alaskaairshow.org.
Continues through early August
Throughout July—Minor-League Baseball Anchorage is home to
two semiprofessional baseball teams, the Anchorage Bucs and
Anchorage Glacier Pilots. Both play under the midnight sun
at Mulcahy Stadium, 16th Avenue and Cordova Street. For
information about Bucs games, call 907-561-2827. http://www.anchoragebucs.com.
For information about Pilots games, call 907-274-3627.
http://www.glacierpilots.com. Continues through early August
August 2011
Early August—Minor-League Baseball Anchorage is home to two
semiprofessional baseball teams, the Anchorage Bucs and
Anchorage Glacier Pilots. Both play under the midnight sun
at Mulcahy Stadium, 16th Avenue and Cordova Street. For
information about Bucs games, call 907-561-2827. http://www.anchoragebucs.com.
For information about Pilots games, call 907-274-3627.
http://www.glacierpilots.com. Concludes early August
Early August—Arctic Thunder The U.S. Navy Blue Angels aerial
acrobatic team performs along with U.S. Army Golden Knights
parachuting team. Elmendorf Air Force Base. http://www.alaskaairshow.org.
Concludes early August
25-31 Aug—Alaska State Fair This is the big end-of-summer
blowout, and the fairgrounds are jammed with midway rides,
agricultural exhibits (including Alaska's famous giant
vegetables), arts and crafts, live entertainment and, of
course, lots of food. State Fairgrounds, 2075 Glenn Highway,
Palmer (50 mi/80 km north of Anchorage). For information,
call 907-745-4827. http://www.alaskastatefair.org. Continues
through 5 Sep
6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28 Aug—Anchorage Market and
Festival More than 300 vendors congregate downtown to sell
souvenirs, produce, exotic goods and just about everything
else. The event also includes a continuous lineup of live
entertainment. 10 am-6 pm. Third Avenue and E Street parking
lot, downtown. For information, call 907-272-5634. http://www.anchoragemarkets.com/main.html.
September 2011
Early-Late September—Performance With three theaters and
eight resident performing-arts companies, the Alaska Center
for the Performing Arts regularly hosts concerts, Broadway
musicals, dance, choral music and other performances. 621 W.
Sixth Ave. For information, call 907-263-2900. For tickets,
call 907-263-2787. http://www.alaskapac.org. Continues
through late May 2012
1-5 Sep—Alaska State Fair This is the big end-of-summer
blowout, and the fairgrounds are jammed with midway rides,
agricultural exhibits (including Alaska's famous giant
vegetables), arts and crafts, live entertainment and, of
course, lots of food. State Fairgrounds, 2075 Glenn Highway,
Palmer (50 mi/80 km north of Anchorage). For information,
call 907-745-4827. http://www.alaskastatefair.org. Concludes
5 Sep
3, 4 Sep—Anchorage Market and Festival More than 300 vendors
congregate downtown to sell souvenirs, produce, exotic goods
and just about everything else. The event also includes a
continuous lineup of live entertainment. 10 am-6 pm. Third
Avenue and E Street parking lot, downtown. For information,
call 907-272-5634. http://www.anchoragemarkets.com/main.html.
5 Sep—Labor Day Public holiday.
Late September—Concert The Anchorage Symphony Orchestra
performs regularly at Evangeline Atwood Concert Hall, Alaska
Center for the Performing Arts, 621 W. Sixth Ave. For
information and tickets, call 907-274-8668. http://www.anchoragesymphony.org.
Continues through mid April 2012
October 2011
Early October—Make it Alaskan Festival The oldest festival
devoted solely to Alaskan arts and crafts, this event
features more than 240 booths, live music by Alaskan
artists, exhibits and food. Sullivan Arena, 1600 Gambell St.
For information, call 907-279-0618. http://www.miafestival.com.
Early-Late October—College Hockey The University of Alaska
at Anchorage Seawolves play their Western Collegiate Hockey
Association home games at Sullivan Arena, 1600 Gambell St.
http://www.goseawolves.com. Continues through mid March 2012
Mid-Late October—ECHL Hockey The Division IAA Alaska Aces
compete at Sullivan Arena, 1600 Gambell St. For information
and tickets, call 907-258-2237. http://www.alaskaaces.com.
Continues through mid April 2012
18 Oct—Alaska Day Public holiday marking the anniversary of
the formal transfer of the Alaskan territory from Russia to
the U.S.
20-22 Oct—Alaska Federation of Natives Convention Public
events include the Native Arts Fair and Quyana Alaska, a
program of Native American dances. Dena'ina Center. For
information, call 907-274-3611. http://www.nativefederation.org.
Throughout October—Performance With three theaters and eight
resident performing-arts companies, the Alaska Center for
the Performing Arts regularly hosts concerts, Broadway
musicals, dance, choral music and other performances. 621 W.
Sixth Ave. For information, call 907-263-2900. For tickets,
call 907-263-2787. http://www.alaskapac.org. Continues
through late May 2012
Throughout October—Concert The Anchorage Symphony Orchestra
performs regularly at Evangeline Atwood Concert Hall, Alaska
Center for the Performing Arts, 621 W. Sixth Ave. For
information and tickets, call 907-274-8668. http://www.anchoragesymphony.org.
Continues through mid April 2012
November 2011
Mid-Late November—Men's and Women's College Basketball The
University of Alaska at Anchorage Seawolves play their
Pacific West Conference home games at the Wells Fargo Sports
Complex (3211 Providence Drive) and at Sullivan Arena (1600
Gambell St.). http://www.goseawolves.com. Continues through
early March 2012
11 Nov—Veterans Day Public holiday.
19, 20 Nov—Annual Crafts Emporium at the Egan Center The
largest gathering of fine artisans in Alaska features
holiday crafts, pottery, furs, photographs and prints by
around 300 artists and crafters. Free admission. Egan
Center, 555 W. Fifth Ave. For information, call
907-263-2850. http://www.anchorageconventiondistrict.com.
24 Nov—Thanksgiving Day Public holiday.
Late November—Great Alaska Shootout On Thanksgiving weekend,
top college men's basketball teams from around the nation
head north for a preseason tournament—one of only four in
the nation—and a chance to beat the Division II University
of Alaska Seawolves. Sullivan Arena, 1600 Gambell St.
http://www.goseawolves.com.
Throughout November—College Hockey The University of Alaska
at Anchorage Seawolves play their Western Collegiate Hockey
Association home games at Sullivan Arena, 1600 Gambell St.
http://www.goseawolves.com. Continues through mid March 2012
Throughout November—Performance With three theaters and
eight resident performing-arts companies, the Alaska Center
for the Performing Arts regularly hosts concerts, Broadway
musicals, dance, choral music and other performances. 621 W.
Sixth Ave. For information, call 907-263-2900. For tickets,
call 907-263-2787. http://www.alaskapac.org. Continues
through late May 2012
Throughout November—ECHL Hockey The Division IAA Alaska Aces
compete at Sullivan Arena, 1600 Gambell St. For information
and tickets, call 907-258-2237. http://www.alaskaaces.com.
Continues through mid April 2012
Throughout November—Concert The Anchorage Symphony Orchestra
performs regularly at Evangeline Atwood Concert Hall, Alaska
Center for the Performing Arts, 621 W. Sixth Ave. For
information and tickets, call 907-274-8668. http://www.anchoragesymphony.org.
Continues through mid April 2012
December 2011
25 Dec—Christmas Public holiday.
31 Dec—Fireworks Alyeska Ski Resort hosts Anchorage's
traditional New Year's Eve Torchlight Parade and Fireworks.
For information, call 907-754-1111 or 907-784-2248. http://www.alyeskaresort.com.
Throughout December—Concert The Anchorage Symphony Orchestra
performs regularly at Evangeline Atwood Concert Hall, Alaska
Center for the Performing Arts, 621 W. Sixth Ave. For
information and tickets, call 907-274-8668. http://www.anchoragesymphony.org.
Continues through mid April 2012
Throughout December—ECHL Hockey The Division IAA Alaska Aces
compete at Sullivan Arena, 1600 Gambell St. For information
and tickets, call 907-258-2237. http://www.alaskaaces.com.
Continues through mid April 2012
Throughout December—College Hockey The University of Alaska
at Anchorage Seawolves play their Western Collegiate Hockey
Association home games at Sullivan Arena, 1600 Gambell St.
http://www.goseawolves.com. Continues through mid March 2012
Throughout December—Performance With three theaters and
eight resident performing-arts companies, the Alaska Center
for the Performing Arts regularly hosts concerts, Broadway
musicals, dance, choral music and other performances. 621 W.
Sixth Ave. For information, call 907-263-2900. For tickets,
call 907-263-2787. http://www.alaskapac.org. Continues
through late May 2012
Throughout December—Men's and Women's College Basketball The
University of Alaska at Anchorage Seawolves play their
Pacific West Conference home games at the Wells Fargo Sports
Complex (3211 Providence Drive) and at Sullivan Arena (1600
Gambell St.). http://www.goseawolves.com. Continues through
early March 2012
January 2012
Mid January—Great Alaska Beer and Barleywine Festival One of
the world's largest celebrations of this type of beer, this
festival features around 100 brands by 40 area breweries.
Egan Center, 555 W. Fifth Ave. http://auroraproductions.net/beer-barley.html.
1 Jan—New Year's Day Public holiday.
16 Jan—Martin Luther King Jr. Day Public holiday.
19-29 Jan—Anchorage Folk Festival This popular event
attracts folk-music artists from Alaska and the lower 48
states. It includes more than 120 free performances,
workshops, dances and special events over two weekends.
Wendy Williamson Auditorium, University of Alaska campus.
http://www.anchoragefolkfestival.org.
Late January—Sled Dog Races The Alaskan Sled-Dog and Racing
Association hosts races at Tozier Memorial Track, which has
20 mi/32 km of trails. 3400 Tudor Road. For information,
call 907-562-2235. http://www.asdra.org. Continues through
late February
Throughout January—College Hockey The University of Alaska
at Anchorage Seawolves play their Western Collegiate Hockey
Association home games at Sullivan Arena, 1600 Gambell St.
http://www.goseawolves.com. Continues through mid March
Throughout January—Men's and Women's College Basketball The
University of Alaska at Anchorage Seawolves play their
Pacific West Conference home games at the Wells Fargo Sports
Complex (3211 Providence Drive) and at Sullivan Arena (1600
Gambell St.). http://www.goseawolves.com. Continues through
early March
Throughout January—Performance With three theaters and eight
resident performing-arts companies, the Alaska Center for
the Performing Arts regularly hosts concerts, Broadway
musicals, dance, choral music and other performances. 621 W.
Sixth Ave. For information, call 907-263-2900. For tickets,
call 907-263-2787. http://www.alaskapac.org. Continues
through late May
Throughout January—ECHL Hockey The Division IAA Alaska Aces
compete at Sullivan Arena, 1600 Gambell St. For information
and tickets, call 907-258-2237. http://www.alaskaaces.com.
Continues through mid April
Throughout January—Concert The Anchorage Symphony Orchestra
performs regularly at Evangeline Atwood Concert Hall, Alaska
Center for the Performing Arts, 621 W. Sixth Ave. For
information and tickets, call 907-274-8668. http://www.anchoragesymphony.org.
Continues through mid April
February 2012
20 Feb—Presidents Day Public holiday.
Late February—Fur Rondy Festival For more than 70 years,
this celebration has reveled in winter with one eye on
approaching spring. Midway rides, ice-carving events,
dogsled races, a fur auction and outdoor games get the
locals out to shake off cabin fever. Various venues. For
more information, call 907-274-1177. http://www.furrondy.net.
Continues through early March
Throughout February—Concert The Anchorage Symphony Orchestra
performs regularly at Evangeline Atwood Concert Hall, Alaska
Center for the Performing Arts, 621 W. Sixth Ave. For
information and tickets, call 907-274-8668. http://www.anchoragesymphony.org.
Continues through mid April
Throughout February—Sled Dog Races The Alaskan Sled-Dog and
Racing Association hosts races at Tozier Memorial Track,
which has 20 mi/32 km of trails. 3400 Tudor Road. For
information, call 907-562-2235. http://www.asdra.org.
Concludes late February
Throughout February—ECHL Hockey The Division IAA Alaska Aces
compete at Sullivan Arena, 1600 Gambell St. For information
and tickets, call 907-258-2237. http://www.alaskaaces.com.
Continues through mid April
Throughout February—College Hockey The University of Alaska
at Anchorage Seawolves play their Western Collegiate Hockey
Association home games at Sullivan Arena, 1600 Gambell St.
http://www.goseawolves.com. Continues through mid March
Throughout February—Men's and Women's College Basketball The
University of Alaska at Anchorage Seawolves play their
Pacific West Conference home games at the Wells Fargo Sports
Complex (3211 Providence Drive) and at Sullivan Arena (1600
Gambell St.). http://www.goseawolves.com. Continues through
early March
Throughout February—Performance With three theaters and
eight resident performing-arts companies, the Alaska Center
for the Performing Arts regularly hosts concerts, Broadway
musicals, dance, choral music and other performances. 621 W.
Sixth Ave. For information, call 907-263-2900. For tickets,
call 907-263-2787. http://www.alaskapac.org. Continues
through late May
March 2012
Early March—Fur Rondy Festival For more than 70 years, this
celebration has reveled in winter with one eye on
approaching spring. Midway rides, ice-carving events,
dogsled races, a fur auction and outdoor games get the
locals out to shake off cabin fever. Various venues. For
more information, call 907-274-1177. http://www.furrondy.net.
Concludes early March
Early March—Iditarod Sled Dog Race This annual race to Nome
(1,100 mi/1,770 km away) begins at Fourth Avenue and D
Street in downtown Anchorage. There's also an international
ice-carving competition in which beautiful, if temporary,
works of art are created from blocks of ice. For
information, call 907-376-5155. http://www.iditarod.com.
Early March—Men's and Women's College Basketball The
University of Alaska at Anchorage Seawolves play their
Pacific West Conference home games at the Wells Fargo Sports
Complex (3211 Providence Drive) and at Sullivan Arena (1600
Gambell St.). http://www.goseawolves.com. Concludes early
March
Early-Mid March—College Hockey The University of Alaska at
Anchorage Seawolves play their Western Collegiate Hockey
Association home games at Sullivan Arena, 1600 Gambell St.
http://www.goseawolves.com. Concludes mid March
Mid March—Duct Tape Ball Annual charity benefit
featuring—what else?—duct tape. Attendees are invited to
dress from head to toe in the sticky gray fix-all, and the
tables and decor also feature duct tape. http://www.anchorage.net/2422.cfm.
4 Mar—Tour of Anchorage Four races make up one of the
largest cross-country ski marathons in North America. The
25K classic, and 25K, 40K and 50K freestyles wind through
Anchorage and end in Kincaid Park, Raspberry Road. For
information, call 907-276-7609. http://www.tourofanchorage.com.
30 Mar—Seward's Day Public holiday commemorating the
country's 1867 purchase of Alaska from Russia.
Throughout March—Concert The Anchorage Symphony Orchestra
performs regularly at Evangeline Atwood Concert Hall, Alaska
Center for the Performing Arts, 621 W. Sixth Ave. For
information and tickets, call 907-274-8668. http://www.anchoragesymphony.org.
Continues through mid April
Throughout March—ECHL Hockey The Division IAA Alaska Aces
compete at Sullivan Arena, 1600 Gambell St. For information
and tickets, call 907-258-2237. http://www.alaskaaces.com.
Continues through mid April
Throughout March—Performance With three theaters and eight
resident performing-arts companies, the Alaska Center for
the Performing Arts regularly hosts concerts, Broadway
musicals, dance, choral music and other performances. 621 W.
Sixth Ave. For information, call 907-263-2900. For tickets,
call 907-263-2787. http://www.alaskapac.org. Continues
through late May
Seward, Alaska
Overview
Introduction
Set along the protected waters of Resurrection Bay on the
eastern tip of the Kenai Peninsula, Seward, Alaska, is a
terminus for many Gulf of Alaska cruises and is a base for
exploring nearby Kenai Fjords National Park. It's surrounded
by forest and park preserves, snowcapped peaks, calving
glaciers, waterfalls and cliffs. Visitors can easily reach
Seward by air, cruise ship, ferry, motorcoach or car.
Must See or Do
Sights—Calving glaciers at Kenai Fjords National Park;
Lowell Point or Waterfront Park for unencumbered views of
Resurrection Bay.
Museums—See the history of the city at the Seward Museum;
take in historic movies and displays of the area at Kenai
Fjords Information Center.
Memorable Meals—Seafood at Ray's Waterfront; fish-and-chips,
steaks and pastas at Christo's Palace; salmon and prime rib
at Salmon Bake Restaurant; white-mushroom pizza at
Resurrection Roadhouse.
Late Night—The microbrews and rustic, log-cabin feel at
Salmon Bake Restaurant; pool tables, live music and karaoke
at the Yukon Bar; live music and poker at The Pit Bar.
Walks—Two Lakes Trail; the trails at Exit Glacier or Harding
Icefield; the biking and walking trail at Waterfront Park.
Especially for Kids—Hands-on exhibits and a touch tank at
Alaska SeaLife Center; the kid's outdoor park near the start
of the Historic Iditarod Trail on the beachfront.
Geography
A mecca for fishermen, biologists and naturalists, Seward
continues to be a desired destination with awesome beauty
nestled on the northwestern bank of Resurrection Bay at the
foot of Mount Marathon on the Kenai Peninsula. Glaciers
suspended from the highest peaks of the Kenai Fjords
National Park, otters playing in the bay and many other
natural wonders make this one of the most scenic port cities
in Alaska.
On the east side of the Kenai Peninsula, there is just room
enough for the town of Seward to cling to the foot of the
Kenai Mountains. The city is oriented north and south, and
travelers go by road, boat or plane into the north end, with
the SeaLife Center, Lowell Point and Caines Head at the
south end. Not more than six blocks wide, it is easy to
navigate with the water to the east and Mount Marathon to
the west. Seward is also the southern terminus of the Alaska
Railroad.
History
Utilized by Alaska Natives since prehistoric times and
"discovered" by Russian explorers in the late 1700s, this
exquisitely beautiful location was not truly settled until
the late 1890s. An ice-free port, Seward offered a viable
transportation route to gold mines, to Anchorage and to the
far north for mining enterprises.
By the late 1890s, it became obvious that a railway was
needed to transport quantities of mineral resources much
greater than dog teams could haul, and in 1903, the Alaska
Railroad was started north to Anchorage. Shortly after the
arrival of the railroad, the city was named in honor of
William Seward, the secretary of state during U.S. President
Abraham Lincoln's administration, who spearheaded the
purchase of what is currently Alaska from the Russian
government.
The town's original focus as an import and export location
was briefly supplemented in the 1920s by fur production from
a fox farm. A larger impact, though, came with World War II
and the influx of military supplies and nearly 4,000
personnel. Seward became the largest U.S. military port
north of Seattle. (Caines Head State Recreation Area is the
site of the abandoned Fort McGilvray.) Following the war,
Seward quickly reverted back to a fishing village as the
natural resources located in Resurrection Bay drew
commercial attention.
In 1964, an earthquake and a following tsunami wiped out the
town's waterfront. Both the Seward Community Library and the
Seward Museum have exhibits that document the damage.
The famous Iditarod dogsled race runs from Anchorage to Nome
each year, but the original beginning of the trail was in
Seward—on the waterfront at Fourth Avenue and Railway, to be
exact (look for the Mile 0 marker with a dogsled monument
and interpretive displays). The Iditarod Trail was being
used as early as the 1880s for gold prospectors to haul
supplies in dogsleds north to the mines in nearby Hope and
Sunrise, as well as Nome. The lucky miners mushed their dogs
back to Seward's port with sleds full of the precious metal,
sometimes millions of dollars worth at one time. (Tales are
still told of armed guards escorting one miner and his loot
along the trail into town.)
Today, Seward is a busy shipping, fishing, marine research
and tourism hub.
Port Information
Location
Seward is the beginning or end of the line for cruise
passengers sailing the Gulf of Alaska route. The town may
blur by if you are in a hurry to get on your ship or to get
on the road to Anchorage for the plane ride home. If there's
any flexibility in your schedule, we recommend taking at
least a few hours to explore this interesting port in
south-central Alaska.
The cruise-ship dock is about 0.5 mi/0.8 km northeast of the
town's Small Boat Harbor on Port Avenue. A Seward Visitors
Bureau information office just across the Seward highway
from the cruise dock is open Monday-Saturday 9 am-6 pm,
Sunday 10 am-4 pm Memorial Day-Labor Day. In winter the
visitor center is open 9 am-5 pm Monday-Friday. This is
where you can find information and reserve shore-side
excursions (2001 Seward Highway, phone 907-224-8051; http://www.seward.com).
You can walk into town from the dock or take a taxi from the
visitors center. Some cruise lines provide a van shuttle
service to the harbor and downtown.
Information booths are also located at the Kenai Fjords
National Park Visitor Center at the small boat harbor on
Fourth Avenue, and at the Seward Museum at the corner of
Third Avenue and Jefferson Street, adjacent to Millionaire
Row and its historic homes. Learn about local trails, cabins
and wildlife at the U.S. Forest Service on the corner of
Fourth Avenue and Jefferson Street. The Seward Library, at
Fifth and Adams streets, shows a movie about the 1964
earthquake and tsunami daily at 2 pm during the summer.
Shore Excursions
Shore excursions available from Seward often include
small-boat cruises to see glaciers and wildlife in
Resurrection Bay, chartered salmon-fishing trips, tours of
the Ididaride sled-dog kennels (including a ride on a
wheeled sled pulled by dogs), a helicopter flight and dog
sled ride on a glacier, flightseeing, kayaking and bus trips
to Exit Glacier in nearby Kenai Fjords National Park.
Additional options are available; ask your cruise director
or inquire at the visitors center.
Most cruise lines offer trips to Kenai Fjords National Park
(with a stop at Exit Glacier) and the Alaska SeaLife Center
in downtown Seward, as well as flightseeing and fishing
excursions in the Seward area. Some lines heading north on
the scenic Seward Highway to Denali (Mount McKinley) north
of Anchorage stop at the glacier-ringed Alyeska Resort in
Girdwood. Phone 907-754-2111. Toll-free 800-880-3880.
http://www.alyeskaresort.com.
For longer post- or pre-cruise stays, depart from Seward and
head to the private Alaska Native-owned Kenai Fjords
Wilderness Lodge, 12 mi/19 km from Seward, a one-hour boat
ride away on Fox Island. Spend several relaxing days in a
heated seaside wilderness cabin. Or, consider a nature
excursion that includes three days and nights of fishing,
whale-watching, glacier-watching and other outdoor scenery.
Several tours take visitors to the Gulf of Alaska glaciers
and to see marine wildlife. Toll-free 877-777-4053. http://www.kenaifjordslodge.com.
Potpourri
The Harding Icefield in Kenai Fjords National Park is the
largest ice field contained within the U.S. The ice field
accumulates 400-800 in/1,016-2,032 cm of snow each year. It
takes 30-50 years for that snow to compress into glacial
ice.
The Dall's porpoise often flirts with cruise ships touring
Kenai Fjords National Park. They are the fastest small
cetacean, logging speeds of up to 30 knots.
Glaciers are typically blue in color because the ice absorbs
long-wavelength frequencies of light while reflecting
short-wavelength frequencies, such as blue.
An incredible 4,500 gallons/17,030 liters of water is pumped
into the Alaska SeaLife Center daily to keep the Steller sea
lions happy.
The Seward Community Library holds the original flag that
seventh-grader Benny Benson entered in a contest to design a
state flag for Alaska—he won.
See & Do
Sightseeing
Gateway to the Kenai Fjords National Park, Seward offers
diverse sightseeing opportunities. In addition to
Millionaire's Row, the Iditarod National Historic Trail,
Founders Monument, Benny Benson Memorial, Seward Museum and
Kenai Fjords National Park Visitor Center downtown, Seward
has been dubbed the Mural Capital of Alaska. Mural and
historic locations are noted on the downtown walking tour
available at http://www.seward.com/visit.htm.
Don't miss the Alaska SeaLife Center where you can get nose
to nose with seals and sea lions.
Recognized for scenic, natural, historical and recreational
values, the 127 mi/204 km Seward Highway is an All-American
Road, USDA Forest Service Scenic Byway and Alaska Scenic
Byway. The road begins in Seward, paralleling the Iditarod
National Historic Trail and the Alaska Railroad as far as
Moose Pass and reconnects at the eastern tip of Turnagain
Arm, ending in Anchorage. http://www.dot.state.ak.us/stwdplng/scenic/byways-seward.shtml.
Resurrection Bay kayak and boat trips provide the most
dramatic views of the Kenai Fjords and glimpses of wildlife,
or you can flightsee over the Harding Icefield, the largest
icefield in the U.S.
Historic Sites
Millionaire's Row
Along Third Avenue North is Millionaire's Row, a string of
historic private homes built in the early 1900s by officials
of the Alaska Central Railroad. The former home of Frank
Ballaine is at 437 Third Ave.—his brother was John Ballaine,
founder of both Seward and the railroad. Over at 209 Fourth
Ave. is Brown & Hawkins, a general store that dates back to
1904 and is listed on the National Register of Historic
Places. (Check out the old cash register.)
Museums
Seward Museum
Don't be fooled by the Seward Museum's bland exterior; it
has some fascinating displays including an excellent
collection of Alaska Native woven baskets from around the
state. The museum also includes gold-rush memorabilia and
artifacts from the 1780s, when the Russians had a shipyard
at Resurrection Bay. What stands out most is the collection
of photographs from the 1964 Good Friday Earthquake: The
strongest earthquake ever recorded in North America, it
rocked Alaska's coast and destroyed Seward's waterfront. If
you have time, try to attend the Iditarod Trail History or
Seward History slide shows June-September Monday, Wednesday
and Friday at 7 pm. May-October daily 10 am-5 pm. US$3
adults, US$0.50 children. 336 Third Ave., Seward. Phone
907-224-3902.
Nature
Be sure to pay a visit to Exit Glacier in Kenai Fjords
National Park. If you've got wheels, take the Seward Highway
north out of town and turn left at the marked road at Mile
3.7. Follow the road for about 9 mi/14 km to the ranger
station. There are several short, scenic trails branching
off from there, or you can work up an appetite by hiking up
alongside the glacier to the Harding Icefield, from which
Exit Glacier flows.
Rangers lead nature walks from the station at 10 am and 2 pm
daily midsummer. Mountain goats inhabit the nearby cliffs,
and black bears are relatively common. Don't get too close
to the glacier, and don't venture onto the ice field unless
you're properly equipped and have had experience hiking on
glaciers. The Exit Glacier Nature Center is open 9 am-8 pm
daily Memorial Day-Labor Day. The center has interpretive
programs, exhibits, visitor information and a bookstore.
The Kenai Fjords National Park Visitor Center also has
useful information, videos and interpretive displays. Open
daily 8:30 am-7 pm Memorial Day-Labor Day. 1212 Fourth Ave.
next to the Small Boat Harbor.
If you don't have a car, there are other ways to see the
park. Tour boats offer half- or full-day trips from Seward
into the Kenai Fjords waterways. Also, flightseeing trips
explore the Harding Icefield and buses go to Exit Glacier.
Sea kayakers can arrange for boats to drop them off along
the park's coastline. http://www.nps.gov/akr/kefj.
Parks & Gardens
Caines Head State Recreation Area
The site of abandoned World War II Fort MacGilvray, South
Beach Garrison, remains of ammunition magazines and a U.S
Army dock are located 4.5 mi/7.2 km from downtown Seward,
accessible by boat or by the Lowell Point coastal trail. The
park has picnic areas, campsites and many natural
attractions, as well. Phone 907-224-3434 (Seward State Parks
Lowell Point Office). http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/caineshd.htm.
Zoos & Wildlife
Alaska SeaLife Center
At the entertaining and very educational Alaska SeaLife
Center, you can watch through large glass windows as otters,
seals, Steller sea lions and other animals frolic in
multistoried tanks. One of the most fascinating exhibits
features seabirds that can be viewed from above or below the
water. Another favorite exhibit focuses on the different
species and life cycles of salmon. Touch tanks that house
sea stars and other tide-pool creatures allow hands-on
enjoyment for the young and old alike. Wounded birds and
marine mammals are also cared for at the center. Make
reservations for a special behind-the-scenes tour. An
extensive gift shop carries treasures for kids and adults.
Open May-October Monday-Thursday 9 am-6:30 pm, Friday-Sunday
8 am-6:30 pm. Winter hours are Monday-Friday 10 am-5 pm.
US$20 adults, US$15 students ages 12-17, US$10 children ages
4-11, free for children younger than 4. 301 Railway Ave.,
Seward. Phone 907-224-6300. Toll-free 888-378-2525. http://www.alaskasealife.org.
Recreation
Seward offers a plethora of activities for all ages. If you
like the outdoors, try bird-watching, dog-sledding, fishing,
hiking, horseback riding, kayaking, mountain biking and
sailing. A popular activity is cruising on a ship to view
Kenai Fjords National Park and seeing blue tidewater
glaciers calving into the ocean.
Bicycling
Lowell Point Road is a great place to bicycle. It runs south
of town along the shore of Resurrection Bay toward Caines
Head State Recreation Area. Traffic can be heavy, depending
on how the fish are biting, but it's a quick way to get
clear of downtown Seward.
A more peaceful and especially scenic route is the paved
biking and walking trail through Waterfront Park, directly
adjacent to the bay. The trail starts at Mile 0, at the edge
of the SeaLife Center's parking lot, and serves as a
monument to the Iditarod trailhead. Gently winding and
level, it is less than 1 mi/1.6 km in length.
More ambitious cyclists can take the Glacier Highway to Mile
3 and follow the paved Leirer/Exit Glacier Road 9 mi/14 km
to Exit Glacier. Seward Bike Shop
Rentals include a helmet. Prices start at US$14 half-day,
US$23 full-day. 411 Port Ave., Seward. Phone 907-224-2448.
http://www.sewardbikeshop.com.
Boating & Sailing
Several companies offer kayaking opportunities in
Resurrection Bay and the Kenai Fjords. Sunny Cove Sea
Kayaking Company
This local company offers a variety of kayaking experiences
at Kenai Fjords, Fox Island or Lowell Point. It also offers
guided hiking trips. Open May-September 7:30 am-7 pm. US$65
for three hours, including equipment and instruction. Expect
to pay US$179-$399 for all-day glacier-viewing trips. Small
Boat Harbor Adventure Center, Seward. Phone 907-224-4426.
Toll-free 800-770-9119. http://www.sunnycove.com.
Fishing
Charter-boat services abound in Seward. There's excellent
salmon fishing in Resurrection Bay, and the halibut fishing
is good, too. Even if you don't go fishing yourself,
consider hanging around the Small Boat Harbor in the late
afternoon as the boats return to unload the catch of the
day. This is a great opportunity to see what lurks beneath
the surface of the bountiful bay.
There are numerous charter companies in Seward—just ask at
the visitors center. Your lodging may also offer some
package deals. Half- and full-day trips are available,
usually April-September. Most outfits supply all of the gear
and bait you need. Fees range from US$195-$235 per person
for a full day (approximately 11 hours) of halibut fishing,
US$230 per person for salmon. A half-day outing (five or six
hours) costs around US$160 per person. Be sure to ask if
there's an extra charge for cleaning your catch—policies and
prices vary significantly.
If you go out on a chartered boat during a fishing derby,
don't forget to purchase derby tickets before you go. Most
Alaska derbies charge a nominal entrance fee of around US$10
per day or US$50 for the entire derby. We've heard plenty of
sad stories about visitors who embark on day trips, neglect
to spend a few bucks for a ticket, and then haul in a fish
that would have won a substantial cash prize.
Hiking & Walking
There are several accessible hikes from town. The Two Lakes
Trail starts behind the AVTEC building at Second Avenue and
B Street, continues for 1 mi/1.6 km around the base of Mount
Marathon and circles two lakes. The trail ends at the Benny
Benson memorial site, which boasts a monument to the
designer of Alaska's state flag. Much of the trail consists
of a boardwalk with picnic benches along the way. We like
this trail for the beautiful view of a waterfall suspended
above the city.
If you're ambitious and in good shape, you can try the
three-hour, progressively steep climb to the top of
3,022-ft/937-m Mount Marathon. The trailhead is marked at
the western end of Jefferson Street, and from the top you'll
be rewarded with amazing views. This is the location of the
annual Mount Marathon race that takes place each Fourth of
July.
Caines Head State Recreation Area to the south of town
starts out of the Lowell Point parking lot and has a
5-mi/7-km hike to an aging World War II fort that overlooks
the bay. Begin your hike two hours before low tide—the
Tonsina Point to North Beach section of the trail is under
water at high tide. http://www.alaskastateparks.org.
North of town at Mile 3 of Seward Highway is the paved
Leirer/Exit Glacier Road to Exit Glacier. The trailhead is
at Mile 9, Exit Glacier Road. The first 0.3 mi/0.5 km of the
0.8 mi/1.3 km Lower Loop trail at Exit Glacier is wheelchair
accessible. The Upper Loop is 1 mi/1.6 km. For the
adventurous, the Harding Icefield Trail is a strenuous
3.5-mi/5.6-km hike with amazing views. http://www.nps.gov/kefj/planyourvisit/exit-glacier.htm.
If you don't have a car, Exit Glacier Guides offers an
hourly shuttle between Seward's small boat harbor and Exit
Glacier late May-early September 8:30 am-5 pm. The
ecofriendly shuttle van is powered by WVO (waste vegetable
oil). Phone 907-224-5569. http://www.exitglacierguides.com.
Nightlife
There isn't much nightlife in Seward, but Fourth Avenue is
your best bet for bar-hopping.
Options usually include a handful of colorful bars that
occasionally offer live music. Be aware that bars in Seward
can be very smoky.
Bars, Taverns & Pubs
American Legion Hall
This private club offers Steak Night on Friday, Taco
Tuesdays and karaoke, you must be a member or guest of a
member to attend. 402 Fifth Ave., Seward. Phone
907-224-5440.
Seward Alehouse
Serves a good selection of beers. 215 Fourth Ave., Seward.
Phone 907-224-2337.
The Pit Bar
Live music and poker nights are offered some nights. Open 8
am-5 am. Seward Highway, Mile 3.5, Seward. Phone
907-224-3006.
Thorn's Showcase Lounge
This upscale bar serves good food, too.
Tony's Bar
Popular sports bar. 135 Fourth Ave., Seward. Phone
907-224-3045.
Yukon Bar
This bar has billiards tables, karaoke twice a week, open
jam once a week, a DJ one night a week and live music on
weekends. Fourth Avenue and Washington Street, Seward. Phone
907-224-3063.
Performing Arts
Big-name shows aren't the norm in small-town Seward, but the
community is full of talented performers who can be seen at
the Seward Playhouse and Resurrect Art Coffee House Gallery.
Venues
Resurrect Art Coffee House Gallery
This coffeehouse offers regular performing-arts events, many
of which are sponsored by the Seward Arts Council. It also
displays artwork created mainly by Seward artists. 320 Third
Ave., Seward. Phone 907-224-7161. http://www.resurrectart.com.
Seward Playhouse
Offers a wide variety of live performances in a smoke-free
environment. 215B Fourth Ave. (downtown), Seward. Phone
907-224-2787.
Shopping
You'll find art galleries and shops concentrated downtown
and around the Small Boat Harbor.
Galleries
The Seward Arts Council sponsors First Friday Gallery walks.
http://www.sewardartscouncil.org. Irvin Pottery
Retired school teachers Tom and Sharon Irwin create great
pottery pieces inspired by the natural colors around Seward:
Resurrection Bay blue, rain-forest green, Mount Marathon
autumn gold. 14527 Rainforest Circle, Seward. Phone
907-224-3534. http://www.irvinpottery.com.
Rainy Day Creations
Blown, stained and fused glass and lampwork beads are this
small shop's specialty. 10564 Bear Paw Drive, Seward. Phone
907-224-5429.
Starbird Studio
This is a pleasant spot to browse through wildlife-focused
art and sculptures. Much of the artwork is provided by
Dennis Treadwell, who uses bronze as his medium. Open
May-September. 221 Fourth Ave., Seward. Phone 907-224-8770.
Toll-free 888-868-8770. http://www.starbirdstudio.com.
Markets
The Grazing Moose Summer Market
This summertime market sells fresh produce, art, nachos,
flower baskets and baked goods. Sometimes shoppers are
serenaded by local musicians. Open June-September
Thursday-Sunday 10 am-4 pm. 312 Fifth Ave., Seward. Phone
907-491-1076. http://www.thegrazingmoose.com.
Specialty Stores
A Flyin' Skein
The "Yarn Lady" offers unique yarns, classes and information
about crafters' cruises. Open daily 11 am-7 pm in summer;
Tuesday-Friday 2-6 pm, Saturday 11 am-6 pm in winter. 223
Fourth Ave., Seward. Phone 907-224-5648. http://www.aflyinskein.com.
Brown & Hawkins Store
This is the oldest continuously operated business in Seward,
with the original bank vault, cash register and other
memorabilia. It's on the National Register of Historic
Places. It's also a good place to go if you need apparel or
shoes for the Seward climate. 209 Fourth Ave., Seward. Phone
907-224-3011. http://www.cityofseward.net/hpc/historic_properties/brown_hawkins_store.shtml.htm.
Once In A Blue Moose
This Anchorage-based store carries all the clever T-shirts
and trinkets you could ever need. There's a second location
in the boat harbor (phone 907-632-4447). Open daily
mid-April through September. Closed in winter. 230 Fourth
Ave. (uphill from the SeaLife Center), Seward. Phone
907-224-5335. Toll-free 888-490-1898. http://www.onceinabluemoose.com.
Sew 'n Bee Cozy
A carved orca sits outside the front door of this quilting
and sewing supply store. Open Monday-Saturday 10 am-7 pm,
Sunday noon-5 pm in summer; Monday-Saturday 11 am-6 pm in
winter. 211 Fourth Ave., Seward. Phone 907-224-7647. http://www.sewnbeecozy.com.
Sweet Darlings Candy Shop
Attached to the Brown & Hawkins Store, this famous shop
sells authentic Italian gelato, homemade fudge, saltwater
taffy and peppermint bark. 209 Fourth Ave., Seward. Phone
907-224-3011. Toll-free 888-467-3011. http://www.sweetdarlings.com.
Urbach's Clothier
This is where Seward locals shop for clothes. 218 Fourth
Ave., Seward. Phone 907-224-3088.
Itinerary
Local Tours
There are many reputable tour operators in town. The
visitors center has lists of companies and individuals who
offer guided fishing, helicopter rides, kayaking, sailing,
scuba diving, wildlife viewing and other tours. Booking
offices for several outfits are located near the
harbormaster office building at the Small Boat Harbor.
Reservations are recommended, but spur-of-the-moment
adventures can often be accommodated.
You can pick up a walking-tour map of the town at the dock
or at the Seward Chamber of Commerce's visitors center,
which is located in an old railcar downtown at at 2001
Seward Highway. Phone 907-224-3094. http://www.seward.com.
Bardy's Trail Rides
Experience the part of Seward destroyed by the 1964
earthquake and ride on horseback to Resurrection Bay.
Overnight trips are also available. Two-hour rides are
US$85. Mile 3 Seward Highway to Old Nash Road, Seward. Phone
907-224-7863. http://www.sewardhorses.com.
Exit Glacier Guides
Trips include hiking, ice-climbing, ice-hiking, helicopter
ice-hiking, kayaking in Resurrection Bay or Aialik Bay to
Aialik Glacier, or a combination. Prices range US$125 for
five hours of ice-hiking (equipment included) to US$350-$415
for fly-in glacier exploration. Located at the Train Wreck
shopping area in the Small Boat Harbor, Seward. Phone
907-224-5569. http://www.exitglacierguides.com.
Godwin Glacier Dog Sled Tours
This outfit offers a unique combination of dog-sledding,
glacier-landing and spending a night on a glacier for
US$520. US$300 glacier-landing only. For a glacier-landing
plus dog-sledding, prices are US$450 adults, US$420 children
age 12 and younger. Open June-September. Phone 907-224-8239.
Toll-free 888-989-8239. http://www.alaskadogsled.com.
Kenai Fjords Tours
Owned and operated by Cook Inlet Region Inc. Alaska Natives,
this company offers outings mid-May to mid-September on
95-ft-long/30-m-long boats to Kenai Fjords National Park.
Prices range US$89-$189 per adult, depending on the length
of the trip and whether or not a meal is provided. 1304
Fourth Ave. (in the Small Boat Harbor), Seward. Phone
907-224-8068. Toll-free 877-777-4051. http://www.kenaifjords.com.
Major Marine Tours
An Anchorage-based company, Major Marine cruises are hosted
by a uniformed and licensed national park ranger, including
a Junior Ranger program for children. It offers outings to
Kenai Fjords National Park on boats that range 85-115
ft/26-35 m, holding approximately 160-200 passengers. Alaska
salmon and prime-rib meals are offered onboard for an
additional US$19. Tours available April-September. Prices
range US$69-$149 per adult, depending on length of trip.
Located at the Small Boat Harbor, Seward. Phone
907-224-8030. Toll-free 800-764-7300. http://www.majormarine.com.
Sailing Inc.
Sail aboard the 32-ft/10-m Beneteau 323 Yebo! to enjoy
porpoises, whales, otters and the Kenai Fjords. US$75 adults
for two hours, US$175 for six hours. Located in the Small
Boat Harbor, Seward. Phone 907-224-3160. http://www.sailinginc.com.
Seavey's Ididaride Sled Dog Tours
What would a trip to Alaska be without a dogsled tour? Mitch
Seavey (the 2004 Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race winner and
2008 All-Alaska Sweepstakes Champion) and his family offer
90-minute tours of the area with a dog team, including a
2-mi-/4-km-long dogsled ride May-September. In winter
(November-April), weather permitting, mush a dog team on the
snowy trail to Exit Glacier. Reservations recommended.
Summer tour: US$59 adults, US$29 children. Winter tour:
US$249, or ride in the dogsled for US$99 adults, US$59
children. Mile 1.1, Old Exit Glacier Road, Seward. Phone
907-224-8607. Toll-free 800-478-3139. http://www.ididaride.com.
Day By Day
To Denali National Park/Mount McKinley via the Seward
Highway. If you have time for only one land tour, make it
this one: You'll cover the most territory, see Alaska's
premier wildlife preserve and (weather permitting) the
continent's highest peak. Travel from Seward is by
motorcoach or train—or both—along the Seward Highway, a
National Scenic Byway. The scenery en route is a big part of
the experience, so get a window seat if possible so you can
catch the waterfalls, rivers and glacier views.
Once you arrive at the park, you can go river rafting,
flightseeing or horseback riding. You can take a hike on
your own or take a bus tour into the park (leaving daily
every half-hour) from the park entrance and look for moose,
caribou, bears, Dall's sheep, wolves and much more. Plan to
spend at least two days at the park and don't miss the
hilarious dinner theater offered nearby.
If you go on to Fairbanks, the state's second-largest city,
you should ride the authentic stern-wheeler Riverboat
Discovery on the Chena and Tanana rivers. This experience
alone is worth a visit to Fairbanks: The Discovery stops at
Iditarod veteran Susan Butcher's riverside home, shows sled
dogs in action and takes you to a restored Alaska Native
village.
Dining
Dining Overview
If you like seafood, you'll love Seward's restaurants—it's
hard to find a menu that doesn't prominently feature
halibut, as well as other fresh fish.
Local & Regional
Christo's Palace
A downtown restaurant that serves Greek, Italian and Mexican
cuisine, as well as seafood. It has an extensive wine list.
Open daily year-round for lunch and dinner. $-$$$. 133
Fourth Ave., Seward. Phone 907-224-5255. http://www.christospalace.com.
Le Barn Appetit
Enjoy savory crepes and Belgian waffles made by Yvon, who is
originally from Belgium, and his wife, Janet. You can take
your freshly caught fish to this restaurant to have it
prepared. Open daily in summer for breakfast, lunch and
early dinner; in winter by reservation only. $$. 11786 Old
Exit Glacier Road, Seward. Phone 907-224-8706. http://www.lebarnappetit.net.
Ray's Waterfront
A favorite among locals, Ray's has an eclectic range of
artistically prepared options. Dine on fresh local seafood
and pasta while watching the activity in the Small Boat
Harbor. (You can often spot sea otters and sea lions
swimming between the boats.) Open mid-May to September.
$$-$$$. Located in the Small Boat Harbor, Seward. Phone
907-224-5606. http://rayswaterfrontak.com.
Cuisines
American
Resurrection Roadhouse
Choose between two menus: Alaska seafood and steaks or
burgers and specialty pizzas. The restaurant, inside the
Seward Windsong Lodge, offers spectacular views of the
Resurrection River. Pizzas and burgers are also offered at
the Goliath Bar and Grill, also part of the Alaska
Native-owned Windsong Lodge. Open daily mid-May to
mid-September for breakfast, lunch and dinner. $$$. 31772
Herman Leirer Road, Seward. Phone 907-224-7116. Toll-free
877-777-4079. http://www.sewardwindsong.com.
Salmon Bake Restaurant
This restaurant is a favorite because of its stock of great
Alaskan beers served in mason jars and in bottles. It serves
seafood, steaks and burgers. Although a bit loud with a
rustic, woodsy interior, it's a well-lit, busy and jovial
place to meet tourists and locals alike. Open daily for
dinner mid-May to mid-September. $$. Exit Glacier Road, Mile
0.5, Seward. Phone 907-224-2204. http://www.sewardalaskacabins.com.
The Smoke Shack
This place serves the best ribs in town. Try the pulled pork
sandwich or the Big Kahuna hamburger cooked outside on the
deck. The small restaurant is inside a railcar at the Train
Wreck near the harbor. Open daily year-round. $$. 411 Port
Ave., Railcar No. 4, Seward. Phone 907-224-7427.
Mediterranean
Apollo Restaurant
This restaurant puts an Italian and Greek twist on savory
seafood pastas and fettucini di mare. It also serves lamb
chops, gyros, calzones, burgers and homemade soups. Best of
all, the owners smoke their own salmon. Open daily
year-round for lunch and dinner. $$. 229 Fourth Ave.,
Seward. Phone 907-224-3092. http://www.apollorestaurantak.com.
Continental
Gene's Place at Hotel Seward
Dine on tequila-marinated prawns and scallops, halibut
cheeks Rosario with gorgonzola cream, or reindeer sausage in
the historic Victorian-style Hotel Seward. Open daily
year-round for breakfast, lunch and dinner. $$-$$$. 221
Fifth Ave., Seward. Phone 907-224-8001. Toll-free
800-440-2444. http://www.hotelsewardalaska.com.
Seafood
Chinook's Waterfront Restaurant
This waterfront restaurant serves stunning views of the
harbor along with a great seafood saute, snow crab
portobella, shrimp and risotto and halibut cheeks, along
with steaks and pastas. The copper-trimmed first-floor
dining room is casual with a sports-bar atmosphere. The
second floor is more upscale. Open daily April-October for
lunch and dinner. $$-$$$. 1404 Fourth Ave., Seward. Phone
907-224-2207. http://www.chinookswaterfront.com.
Security
Personal Safety
Crime isn't a significant problem in Seward, but take the
usual precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
Health
Mosquitoes and other nibblers can be a nuisance. Don't
venture out of town without a good insect repellent,
preferably one containing deet as an active ingredient. If
you go for a hike, don't drink untreated water from lakes or
streams. No matter how pristine the area seems, people and
animals may have fouled the waters.
Always be aware of the possibility of encountering a moose
or bear. If you do, don't approach them and try to avoid
quick actions that may incite them to charge. Inquire
locally for details on recent bear activity and more advice
on how to behave around both of these species.
Providence Seward Medical Center offers 24-hour medical
services. 417 First Ave. Phone 907-224-5205. http://www.providence.org/alaska/seward.
Disabled Advisory
Curbed sidewalks have ramps, and most business locations and
restaurants comply with the guidelines of the Americans with
Disabilities Act.
Seward does not have public transportation or a ride service
for the disabled. The best approach for disabled travelers
would be to call ahead to specific venues they are
interested in before touring Seward.
Dos & Don'ts
Do wear sunglasses, sunscreen or a brimmed hat when
approaching a glacier. Be sure to wear a light jacket since
the temperature around the glacier usually drops at least 10
degrees F/6 degrees C.
Do take seasickness preventative measures (such as Dramamine
or Bonine) if needed prior to departing on a cruise to Kenai
Fjords National Park, since you will enter the Gulf of
Alaska and may hit rough seas.
Don't touch or let your kids play with devil's club, a shrub
with large leaves of five to seven lobes, and cow parsnip, a
wild celery that has a long stem connected to large,
compound leaves up to 10 ft/3 m long. Both cause skin
irritation and are common plants found on the side of the
road or on trail systems.
Do witness the birth of a sea-lion pup in the spring through
a live video at the Alaska SeaLife Center.
Don't take a banana on any boat trip. It's bad luck.
Don't rely on the weather forecast for Seward if you're
heading to a glacier—they make their own weather.
Don't speed in Seward, especially if you have out-of-town
plates. You might end up in the Seward Phoenix Log. Every
police charge, including traffic tickets, is reported in its
"Matter of Record" section.
Hotels
Hotel Overview
Seward has a few larger hotels and lodges and a scattering
of small ones. The downtown area has the most rooms and
offers deluxe accommodations. Several smaller hotels line
the main street as you travel north of downtown. Rooms are
often booked full in summer months, so early reservations
are recommended. Winter months offer reasonable rates along
with good availability.
The plentiful bed-and-breakfasts and cabins are excellent
opportunities to experience some local flavor. Campgrounds
and RV parks are also available.
Facts
Geostats
Passport/Visa Requirements: All U.S. citizens must have a
passport when traveling by air to or from Bermuda, Canada,
the Caribbean, Central and South America and Mexico.
Citizens of Canada, Mexico and the British Overseas
Territory of Bermuda also must have a passport or other
designated secure document to enter the U.S.
Passports are required for land crossings at the Canadian
and Mexican borders with the U.S. and for cruise passengers
returning to the U.S. from Mexico, the Caribbean, Canada or
Bermuda. Reconfirm travel-document requirements with your
carrier prior to departure.
Population: 2,609.
Time Zone: 9 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (-9 GMT).
Daylight Saving Time is observed from the second Sunday in
March to the first Sunday in November.
Voltage Requirements: 110 volts.
Telephone Codes: 907, area code for all of Alaska;
Money
Currency Exchange
Among the banks in town are Wells Fargo on Third Avenue and
First National Bank on Fourth Avenue. Both have ATMs.
Banking Hours
Generally Monday-Friday 10 am-5 pm.
Taxes
The local sales tax is 3% out-of-town, 7% in town. Seward
has an 11% hotel-occupancy tax.
Tipping
In restaurants, leave 15% unless good service warrants more.
Weather
The beautiful snows and clear days of winter make Seward a
stunning destination, but the typical below-freezing winter
temperatures (20s F/-7 to 0 C on average) and snow create
fewer opportunities for dining, shopping and exploring. The
city appears to sleep beneath the blanket of the winter
season. Summer is its busiest season, with cool temperatures
typically in the 50s F/10-15 C, and there is often a light
rain. Annual rainfall averages 66 in/168 cm.
What to Wear
None of the restaurants in town demand a jacket or tie, and
the general rule is "come as you are." Lightweight jackets
and long sleeves are necessary to be comfortable in summer,
and khaki pants are acceptable dress attire for any event,
with casual jeans appropriate pretty much anytime and
anywhere.
Fishing charters and fjord tours are commonly accompanied by
a slow drizzle and a cool breeze, so be prepared with warm
layers when you plan to be out on the water. (Often the
charter boats offer rain slickers.) Dress in layers for
warmth, not fashion, and you will fit right in. A fleece
jacket or vest with lightweight rain-resistant outerwear and
water-resistant shoes should keep you warm and snuggly.
Communication
Telephone
Pay phones are available around town at Safeway, the
harbormaster's office and the cruise ship terminal, among
other places.
Cell phone coverage is good in town, but spotty on the
Seward Highway.
Internet Access
The Seward Community Library on Adams Street and the Sit 'n
Spin espresso shop and laundromat on Third Avenue offer
public computers with Internet access, but no Wi-Fi for
personal computers.
Most hotels and bed-and-breakfasts, and some cabins offer
Wi-Fi. Even some campgrounds provide Wi-Fi for guests. Sea
Bean Cafe
Enjoy free wireless service, breakfast, lunch, coffee and
ice cream. 225 Fourth Ave., Seward. Phone 907-224-6623.
Mail & Package Services
The post office is open Monday-Friday 9:30 am-4:30 pm,
Saturday 10 am-2 pm. 507 Madison Ave. Phone 907-224-3001.
Newspapers & Magazines
Every Thursday, pick up a copy of The Seward Phoenix Log,
where you can find out just about every bit of local gossip.
http://www.thesewardphoenixlog.com.
Alaska Newspapers Inc. publishes the Seward Alaska Visitors
Guide (http://www.alaskanewspapers.com). Seward Alaska is a
free visitor's guide offered by the Seward Visitor Center,
which you can order for free at http://www.seward.com.
Transportation
Seward Airport (PAWD/SWD), 2 mi/3.2 km northeast of town, is
home to several air taxi operations but has no control tower
(http://www.airnav.com/airport/PAWD). Scheduled commercial
flights are available at Kenai Municipal Airport and Ted
Stevens Anchorage International Airport.
You can see most sights on foot, but if you plan a long stay
in Seward, you'll be well-served by renting a car.
Taxi service is available in town. A ride from the
cruise-ship dock to downtown costs about US$10. You can also
rent a car for around US$75 per day (cars are limited, so
reserve in advance).
If you need to travel between Seward and Anchorage, you can
catch Alaska Railroad's daily 6 pm train to Anchorage from
the gazebo at the corner of Seward Highway and Port Avenue
(phone 907-265-2494, toll-free 800-544-0552. http://www.akrr.com).
The fare is US$75 one-way, US$119 round-trip.
Seward Bus Line (phone 907-224-3608, toll-free 888-420-7788;
http://www.sewardbuslines.net), Gray Line (toll-free
888-452-1737; http://www.graylineofalaska.com), the Magic
Bus (phone 907-230-6773), Alaska Tour and Travel (phone
907-245-0200, toll-free 800-208-0200; http://www.alaskatravel.com)
and others offer daily bus service from Seward to Anchorage
and points in between. One-way tickets cost US$50-$145 or
US$95-$290 round-trip.
For More Information
Convention & Visitors Bureau
Kenai Fjords National Park Information Center
For more information on Kenai Fjords National Park, stop by
the Kenai Fjords Information Center in the Small Boat Harbor
area. The center also sells books, audiotapes and videotapes
on the park and other Alaska subjects, and it has a regular
schedule of short movies offered at no charge. A topographic
map in the center will assist you in understanding the
layout of this mountainous region. Open 8:30 am-7 pm
Memorial Day-Labor Day. 1212 Fourth Ave., Seward. Phone
907-224-3175. http://www.nps.gov/kefj.
Seward Chamber of Commerce Conference and Visitors Bureau
June-September Monday-Saturday 9 am-6 pm, Sunday 10 am-4 pm;
October-May Monday-Friday 9 am-5 pm. 2001 Seward Highway,
Seward. Phone 907-224-8051. http://www.seward.com.
Events
Calendar
The biggest events in Seward are the annual fishing derbies:
the Halibut Derby, which runs virtually all summer (early
May-late July), and the Silver Salmon Derby, which draws
anglers from around the world during the month of August.
Prizes are worth more than US$100,000.
The Polar Bear Jump-Off Festival, held in late January, is a
winter-weekend festival filled with fun events and games,
but the main attraction is the Jump-Off, an icy plunge into
Resurrection Bay by costumed jumpers who collect pledges to
benefit the American Cancer Society.
The Whale Migration Celebration in April heralds the arrival
of spring with workshops and cruises to see the more than
22,000 gray whales migrating from Baja California to the
Bering Sea.
In May there's Military Appreciation Week and the Seward
Harbor Opening Weekend, complete with a parade of boats,
sidewalk sales, marine safety demonstrations by the U.S.
Coast Guard and food.
July explodes with activities, including the Fourth of July
celebration featuring music, food, fireworks, a parade and a
grueling footrace up 3,022-ft/937-m Mount Marathon. The
tradition began in 1915 as a wager whether a person could,
in less than an hour, run from midtown to the top of the
mountain. Although the original race took more than an hour,
the current record is 43 minutes. http://www.sewardak.org/news-events/marathon/marathon.htm.
Performers from all over Alaska gather every September for
the Seward Music and Arts Festival. http://www.sewardfestival.com.
In December, Seward hosts visitors from the Anchorage area
aboard the Alaska Railroad for the Holiday Train Getaway.
There are holiday shopping specials, caroling, children's
activities and visits with Santa. Toll-free 800-544-0552.
http://alaskarailroad.com.
A good source for events and activities in town is the
Seward Conference and Visitors Bureau. Phone 907-224-8051.
http://www.seward.com.
Sitka, Alaska
Overview
Introduction
The setting of Sitka, Alaska, in a tranquil bay on Baranof
Island, is nothing short of spectacular. Tiny islands dense
with evergreen trees dot the blue-green water, which is
crisscrossed by dozens of fishing boats. Looming over the
town and waterfront is Mount Edgecumbe, a Mount Fuji
look-alike located on a nearby island.
Sitka also has a rich legacy of artifacts and traditions
from the Alaska Native, Russian and early-U.S. eras. It is
the ancestral home of the Kiksadi Tlingit people. In the
1800s, before Alaska was sold to the U.S., the town was a
major Russian port, headquarters of the Russian American
Co., established to promote the fur trade, and capital of
Russian North America.
Sitka has 24 listings on the National Register of Historic
Places, seven of which are National Historical Landmarks,
and Sitka was named one of America's Dozen Distinctive
Destinations by the National Trust for Historic
Preservation.
But don't spend all your time touring historic
buildings—Sitka also has an abundance of wildlife. Humpback
whales frolic in the bay; massive brown bears and Sitka
black-tailed deer roam through nearby forests of Sitka
spruce and hemlock; and thousands of seabirds, including the
rare rhinoceros auklet and tufted puffin, flock to St.
Lazaria National Wildlife Refuge at the mouth of Sitka
Sound.
Must See or Do
Sights—Get a sense for Sitka's history by touring St.
Michael's Cathedral, Castle Hill, Sitka National Historical
Park and Russian Bishop's House.
Museums—The Sheldon Jackson Museum; the Sitka Historical
Society and Museum.
Memorable Meals—Try Alaskan tapas or the Katlian special
salmon at Ludvig's Bistro; enjoy beautiful views at The
Raven Room; savor fresh seafood and ocean-view dining at the
Channel Club.
Late Night—Sample calamari and drinks at the Kadataan Lounge
in the Westmark Sitka Hotel; fraternize with locals, sip a
beer and sample a sandwich at the Pioneer Bar.
Walks—Get a copy of Sitka Trails and try some easy hikes in
the area; climb to the top of Mount Edgecumbe.
Especially for Kids—Search for sea stars and hermit crabs at
a beach; see bald eagles at the Alaska Raptor Center; attend
a kid's talk at the Sitka National Historical Park; pet
orphaned cubs at Fortress of the Bear.
Geography
Sitka is one of southeast Alaska's most picturesque
communities. Accessible only by air or sea (like most
southeast Alaska communities), Sitka sits on the outer coast
of Baranof Island in serene Sitka Sound, a body of water
that protects the community from the pounding Pacific Ocean
but not from the rain. The average annual precipitation
measures 96 in/244 cm, including 39 in/99 cm of snow.
Hundreds of spruce- and hemlock-studded islands dot the
sound, and snowcapped volcano Mount Edgecumbe rises
majestically 3,200 ft/992 m in the background. (It last
erupted 8,000 years ago.) Sitka has only 14 mi/23 km of
paved roads.
History
The Russian American Co.'s insatiable search for sea-otter
fur lured the Russians to the Sitka region in 1799. The
Kiksadi Clan of the Tlingit people living in the area
refused to become slaves to the fur traders and attacked the
Russian outpost in 1802, killing most of the Russians and
their Aleut slaves. Two years later, company manager
Alexander Baranof retaliated and drove out the Tlingits,
founding New Archangel—which became Sitka—and built a
stockade on what became known as Castle Hill.
In the 19th century, Sitka was the fur-trading capital of
the world. It was the busiest port on the eastern side of
the Pacific and the only shipyard north of Hawaii. By 1867,
however, overhunting had diminished the sea-otter and
fur-seal trade, so the Russians sold Alaska to the U.S. for
US$7.2 million on 18 October.
After 60 years as the capital of Russian North America,
Sitka continued to function as the capital of the territory
of Alaska until 1906, when the capital was moved to the
gold-rich town of Juneau. Sitka's legacy is its blending of
Tlingit, Russian and American culture and history, evident
in the landmarks, tours and museums around town.
Port Information
Location
Plan to be on deck when your ship sails into Sitka Sound,
particularly if it's a sunny day: The views of the town from
the ship are beautiful.
Large cruise ships anchor in the sound, which is protected
from the rough seas of the Pacific. Passengers are tendered
to the visitors pier near Crescent Harbor or to O'Connell
Bridge. Smaller cruise ships are at the visitors docks. It's
an easy walk to town and to most of the sites, including the
Sitka National Historic Park.
Visitor information can be obtained from the visitors desk
at Harrigan Centennial Hall, near Crescent Harbor, one block
from O'Connell Bridge, or at the Sitka Convention and
Visitors Bureau, 303 Lincoln St. A visitor kiosk at
O'Connell Bridge also is available when cruise ships are in
town. Open Monday-Friday 8 am-5 pm in summer. Phone
907-747-5940. http://www.sitka.org.
Shore Excursions
Consider signing up for the excursions offered by your ship.
They may not be the least expensive way to see the area, but
you won't have to waste your limited time making
arrangements yourself—and you won't have to worry about
missing the ship. Shore excursions and their prices vary
from cruise line to cruise line. Check with your ship's
shore-excursion staff or your travel agent for additional
information.
Explore Sitka's Russian history via bus tour followed by a
Russian dance performance, learn about eagles at the Alaska
Raptor Center, or bike and hike through the area. Boat tours
allow you to watch sea otters and other wildlife, experience
a working salmon hatchery, enjoy sportfishing and watch
whales. Tranquil Sitka Sound is the perfect place to learn
to maneuver a two-person sea kayak or experience the
underwater environment from the comfort of a semisubmersible
vessel.
Potpourri
Archaeologists excavated 300,000 artifacts weighing a total
of 4,100 lbs/1,845 kg from four buried Russian American Co.
buildings in the Castle Hill area of Sitka.
Known as the "Paris of the Pacific" in 1867, Sitka was the
busiest port on the west coast of North America in the
mid-19th century.
Sitka is the largest city in terms of area in the U.S. at
4,811 sq mi/12,461 sq km, of which 1,937 sq mi/5,017 sq km
(or 40%) is water.
The name Sitka is from the Tlingit phrase Shee At'ika, which
means people on the outside of Shee, the Tlingit name for
Baranof Island or for the volcano at Mount Edgecumbe.
During World War II, 30,000 military personnel and 7,000
civilians were entrenched on Japonski Island, currently the
location of the airport and Mount Edgecumbe High School.
In July, Sitka averages 18.5 hours of daylight per day.
In a ceremony that took place in Sitka, the Russians sold
Alaska to the U.S. for US$7.2 million.
The Sitka National Historical Park is the oldest federally
designated park. It was established in 1910 to commemorate
the Battle of Sitka.
Sitka was featured in the movie The Proposal. Although the
actors never got farther north than Rockport, Massachusetts,
the film crew did insert some great shots of Sitka into the
film.
Since 2009, a Spirit of Alaska Statehood design adorns one
Alaska Airlines Boeing 737-400 aircraft. Winner of the Paint
the Plane competition, Sitka 16-year-old Hannah Hamburg
envisioned a musher and sled dog, Alaska Native canoe,
whale, state ferry and a bear, with the theme: "We're all
pulling together."
See & Do
Sightseeing
Sightseeing in Sitka provides visitors with a glimpse of
Russian, American and Tlingit cultures and conflicts in the
area. A must-see is the Sitka National Historical Park.
The major wildlife attractions in the area focus on bears,
humpback whales, sea otters, seabirds and birds of prey.
Historic Sites
Start your tour with a stroll around downtown Sitka. A
walking-tour map is available at the Harrigan Centennial
Hall visitors center or online at http://www.sitka.org/maps.html.
Nearby are two other sites connected to Russian history: the
Russian Blockhouse (206 Lincoln St., phone 907-747-0110), a
replica of the one that separated the Russian and Tlingit
sections of town in the early 1800s; and the Russian
Cemetery, which contains the grave of Princess Maksoutoff,
the wife of Alaska's last Russian governor. Both sites are
behind the Pioneers Home (a big red-roofed building that has
a lovely garden and a gift shop, at 120 Katlian St.). It was
built in 1934 on the Russian parade grounds.
Across from the home is Totem Square, which contains an old
Russian cannon, three anchors, petroglyphs and a totem pole
with a double-headed eagle that was carved by a local
artist. It symbolizes Sitka's Russian heritage. Walk to the
top of Castle Hill, a state park near Totem Square that was
an early stronghold of the Kiksadi Tlingit people and the
site of Baranof Castle (1837-98), former home of the first
Russian governor. It's also the site where Alaska was
officially transferred from Russia to the U.S. in 1867. The
sweeping views of the sound make climbing all those steps
(100, we think) more than worth it. (There's also a
wheelchair ramp that begins at the bridge.)
The remnants of a more recent war are south of town.
Japonski Island—now home to the University of Alaska
Southeast at Sitka, Mount Edgecumbe High School, the
Southeast Alaska Regional Health Center, U.S. Coast Guard
air and boat station, and Rocky Gutierrez airport—was the
headquarters for U.S. military forces based in Sitka during
World War II. The ruins of bunkers and gunning sites can be
visited. Russian Bishop's House
East of town is the Russian Bishop's House, the town's
oldest intact Russian building. Painted mustard yellow, the
two-story house is one of the few log buildings still
standing and the largest Russian log building in North
America—it was built in 1842 as a residence for the bishop
of the Russian Orthodox Church. Now a museum, it houses
artifacts from the Russian colonial period, including a
priest's robe and an antique samovar. Nearby Building 29,
the Log Cache (at 206 Lincoln St), is one of the few
spruce-log structures from the Russian era. Built in 1835,
it's insulated with sawdust. Open daily in summer 9 am-5 pm;
call for a reservation in winter. Free admission or US$4
tour (given every half-hour). Lincoln and Monastery streets,
Sitka. Phone 907-747-6281. http://www.nps.gov/sitk/historyculture/russian-bishops-house.htm.
Sitka Lutheran Church
This church contains artifacts from the Finnish Lutheran
Church (built in 1843), the first Lutheran church on the
west coast of North America. It is listed on the National
Register of Historic Places. Free, volunteer-led tours are
available mid-May to mid-September. 224 Lincoln St., Sitka.
Phone 907-747-3338. http://www.sitkalutheranchurch.org.
Sitka National Historical Park
This park reveals another side of the area's heritage. It is
also known by locals as Totem Park. Stop first at the park's
visitors center, where there are displays of Russian and
Alaska Native artifacts, and ranger programs. See
demonstrations of native crafts, such as a silversmith or
wood carvers working on totem poles at the Southeast Alaska
Indian Cultural Center inside the visitor center. You can
also watch the short, informative video Voices of Sitka.
A 1-mi/1.6-km trail winds through the 100-acre/40-hectare
park's dense second-growth spruce forest along the sound.
The free, self-guided oceanside trail is dotted with totem
poles, many of which are replicas of poles collected for the
1904 celebration of the Louisiana Purchase. (Ask park
rangers to lend you a copy of the booklet "Carved History."
It explains the various carvings.) Don't rush through the
park—you'll want to spend time contemplating the intricately
carved poles.
The trail takes you past the site of the 1804 Battle of
Sitka between the Russians and Tlingits. (The Russians won.)
You'll also cross a bridge over the Indian River, which
teems with spawning salmon at times. A connecting trail
takes you to a memorial to the Russians who died in the
battle. The park is on the National Register of Historic
Places.
Trails open 6 am-10 pm mid-May to September and 7 am-8 pm in
winter. Visitors center open 8 am-5 pm daily
mid-May-September, Monday-Saturday October to mid-May. The
Sitka National Historical Park Visitor Center is located
east of town at 106 Metlakatla St. (at the end of Lincoln
Street), Sitka. Phone 907-747-6281 (historical park) or
907-747-8061 (cultural center). http://www.nps.gov/sitk.
St. Michael's Cathedral
Located in the heart of downtown, St. Michael's Cathedral is
a National Historic Landmark. Its onion dome and
cross-topped steeple symbolize Sitka's Russian history.
Built 1844-48, the original building burned in 1966;
however, it was rebuilt according to the original design.
The interior is dark and sparsely furnished (churchgoers
stand during the service), but it contains several
treasures, including a tabernacle made by Faberge and icons
painted by Russian artists. Open 9 am-4 pm Monday-Saturday,
Sunday by appointment unless a service is being held. US$2
donation requested. 240 Lincoln St., Sitka. Phone
907-747-8120.
St. Peter's by the Sea Episcopal Church
This church was built in 1899. It is listed on the National
Register of Historic Places. 611 Lincoln St., Sitka. Phone
907-747-3977.
Museums
Sheldon Jackson Museum
The oldest museum in Alaska and its first concrete building
(built in 1895), this has one of the state's best
collections of Alaska Native artifacts. The items, many of
which belonged to Sheldon Jackson, a missionary in the late
1800s, include dogsleds and umiaks (Inuit boats) as well as
Alaska Native carvings and clothing. May-September daily 9
am-5 pm, October-April Tuesday-Saturday 10 am-4 pm. US$4 in
summer, US$3 in winter. 104 College Drive, Sitka. Phone
907-747-8981. http://www.museums.state.ak.us/sheldon_jackson/sjhome.html.
Sitka Historical Society and Museum
This museum in Harrigan Centennial Hall contains a scale
model of Sitka as it looked in 1867, when the U.S. bought
Alaska from Russia, Tlingit and Russian cultural artifacts,
a gift shop and a map of the National Register of Historic
Landmarks sites in Sitka. The New Archangel Dancers (Russian
folk dancers) perform when cruise ships are in town in the
main auditorium of the building (check with the visitors
center for times). Outside, you can admire a hand-carved
50-ft/15-m canoe—a replica of the ones used by the Tlingits
for special ceremonies. May-September Sunday-Friday 9 am-5
pm, Saturday 11 am-3 pm; October-April Tuesday-Saturday 10
am-4 pm. Museum admission US$2. 330 Harbor Drive, Sitka.
Phone 907-747-6455 (museum) or 907-747-5516 (New Archangel
Dancers). http://www.sitkahistory.org.
Nature
Ambitious hikers with some time to spare may want to try one
of Sitka's challenging mountain trails. The U.S. Forest
Service Ranger District office north of town sells a guide
called Sitka Trails for US$1. Phone 907-747-6671.
The visitors centers also have recreational guides, maps and
information on bear safety and wildlife viewing.
The waters around Sitka are wonderful for viewing wildlife.
If you don't take an organized wildlife tour, you may still
be able to find someone to take you on a boat ride around
the area. Sea otters are abundant, and you can sometimes see
humpback whales. Humpback whales pass Sitka during their
annual spring and late fall migrations; however, some whales
remain in southeast Alaska year-round. Whale Park on Sawmill
Creek Road, 6 mi/10 km south of town, is a good place to
look for them.
St. Lazaria National Wildlife Refuge, one of the 2,500
islands in the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge, is
a 65-acre/26-hectare island that hosts some 500,000
seabirds, including the comic-looking tufted puffins and the
rhinoceros auklet. Several tour operators offer trips to the
island, 20 mi/32 km west of Sitka at the mouth of Sitka
Sound, and a remote camera captures the activity, shown in
Harrigan Centennial Hall.
Parks & Gardens
There is a variety of state parks in the Sitka area,
including Baranof Castle, Halibut Point, Old Sitka, Sealion
Cove and others. More information is available at http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/sitka.htm.
Whale Park
In early spring and late fall in particular, head to this
park, about 6 mi/10 km south of downtown. It's one of the
best places to view the giants of the sea through telescopes
or listen to whale sounds using hydrophones from shore.
There's also a sheltered picnic area. Free. Sawmill Creek
Road, Sitka.
Zoos & Wildlife
Alaska Raptor Center
For a look at some of the great winged creatures that live
in Alaska, head to this nature center just a short walk from
Sitka National Historical Park (a trail joins the two). At
the center, dedicated volunteers and veterinarians nurse
injured or sick birds of prey back to health so they can be
returned to the wild. Birds that don't fully recover are
kept at the center and can be seen on your own or as part of
a tour. The center also has a flight barn where visitors can
watch eagle recuperative flight training, which helps the
birds strengthen their wings. Guided tours available, and
there is a gift shop on-site. Mid-May to mid-September
Sunday-Friday 8 am-4 pm. US$12 adults, US$6 children age 12
and younger. 1000 Raptor Way, Sitka. Phone 907-747-8662.
Toll-free 800-643-9425. http://www.alaskaraptor.org.
Fortress of the Bear
This is a 3-acre/1-hectare habitat for orphaned brown bear
cubs. The natural setting replicates southeast Alaska brown
bear habitat. There's also a petting farm. May-September
daily 9 am-6 pm, October-April Wednesday-Sunday 10 am-4 pm.
US$11 adults, US$5 children age 6 and older. 4639 Sawmill
Creek Road, Sitka. Phone 907-747-3032. http://www.fortressofthebear.org.
Sitka Sound Science Center
Part of the Sheldon Jackson Hatchery, the Ahlgren Aquarium
features a self-guided tour of an 800-gal/3,028-l
observation tank, touch tanks, five in-wall aquariums, whale
bones, exhibits and an artist's mural. Open 8 am-5 pm.
Donation US$2. 834 Lincoln St., Sitka. Phone 907-747-8878.
http://www.sitkasoundsciencecenter.org.
Recreation
Perhaps Sitka's greatest attraction is the outdoors.
Fishing, hiking, bird and wildlife-watching and even golf
are all available in the surrounding area.
Bicycling
Yellow Jersey Bike Shop
This bike shop rents bikes and offers a list of 10 biking
trails, including Starrigavan Bay and Valley Harbor Mountain
Road, Thimbleberry Lake, Blue Lake, Green Lake and Kruzof
Island. Open Monday-Friday 9 am-6 pm, Saturday 9 am-5:30 pm.
US$25 per day, US$100 per week. 329 Harbor Drive, Sitka.
Phone 907-747-6317. http://www.yellowjerseycycles.com.
Bird Watching
St. Lazaria Island is a seabird haven in the summer. This is
the place to see tufted puffins and rhinoceros auklets, but
you must do your viewing from the water. You can rent a
kayak or boat, or join a tour.
Boating & Sailing
Sitka Sound is one of the best places to learn to kayak, and
there are thousands of miles/kilometers of sheltered
waterways to explore. Sitka Sound Ocean Adventures (phone
907-752-0660) and several other companies provide kayak and
gear rentals, training and guides.
Fishing
With so many boats in town, the fishing has to be good—and
it is, especially June-August. A variety of fishing trips
can be arranged, depending on how much time you have. The
Sitka Convention and Visitors Bureau keeps a list of charter
operations and prices (phone 907-747-5940). Expect to pay
around US$165-$199 for a half-day excursion.
Golf
Sea Mountain Golf
This nine-hole course includes a covered driving range,
restaurant and lounge. Open daily 8 am-6 pm in summer.
US$47.50 for nine holes, US$55 for 18 holes; cart included.
301 Granite Creek Road, Sitka. Phone 907-747-5663. http://www.seamountaingolf.com.
Hiking & Walking
Sitka has more than 40 mi/64 km of trails, including an easy
2.5-mi/4-km (one way) Sitka Cross Trail and the 4-mi/6-km
Indian River Trail that follows a salmon stream through a
rain forest and ends at an 80-ft/25-m waterfall (allow six
hours round-trip).
The moderately difficult Gaven Hill Trail is 3 mi/5 km one
way to the top of 2,500-ft/775-m Gaven Hill, then up a steep
200-ft/62-m climb to Harbor Loop Trail, with impressive
vistas (allow six hours).
These and other trails are described in the "Sitka Trails"
booklet, available from Alaska Geographic (http://www.alaskageographic.org).
Another guide, also called "Sitka Trails," is available from
the Tongass National Forest Sitka Ranger District at 204
Siginaka Way. Phone 907-747-6671.
Scuba & Snorkeling
Island Fever Diving and Adventures
This outfit offers diving instruction and tours as well as
bicycle rentals. 805 Halibut Point Road, No. 5, Sitka. Phone
907-738-1535. http://www.islandfeverdiving.com.
Nightlife
Typical of a small town, Sitka isn't brimming with nightlife
activities. What you will find, however, is a handful of
classy and salty bars filled with colorful locals.
Bars, Taverns & Pubs
Ernie's Old Time Saloon
Ernie's has chips, peanuts, billiards and darts to offer its
patrons, along with live music Friday and Saturday nights.
130 Lincoln St., Sitka. Phone 907-747-3334.
Kadataan Lounge
Offers seafood, steaks and deep-fried calamari along with
drinks. Open mid-May to mid-September Monday-Friday 10 am-11
pm, Saturday and Sunday 10 am-midnight. 330 Seward St. (in
the Westmark Sitka Hotel), Sitka. Phone 907-747-0980.
http://www.westmarkhotels.com/sitka-food.php.
Pioneer Bar
Also known as P-Bar, it features an Alaska maritime theme
with hundreds of photos on the walls. There's also a
billiards table, and hot dogs, chips and nuts are available.
212 Katlian St., Sitka. Phone 907-747-3456.
Victoria's Pour House
This pub offers drinks and a good menu. Smoke-free. 118
Lincoln St. (next to Victoria's in the Sitka Hotel), Sitka.
Phone 907-747-9301. http://www.sitkahotel.com/pour_house.html.
Performing Arts
There aren't many regular performing-arts activities in
Sitka, though special events are scheduled throughout the
year. Your best bet is to visit the events section of the
Sitka Convention and Visitors Bureau Web site. http://www.sitka.org.
Dance
New Archangel Dancers
The New Archangel Dancers offer 30-minute shows of Russian
and Ukrainian folk dances by local women in authentic
costumes. They perform when cruise ships are in town.
Tickets are sold 30 minutes before the performance. Harrigan
Centennial Hall, 330 Harbor Drive, Sitka. Phone
907-747-5516. http://www.newarchangeldancers.com.
Sheet'ka Kwaan Naa Kahidi Native Dancers
The Naa Kahidi Dancers offer a 30-minute Tlingit dance
performed in full regalia at the Sitka Tribal Community
House, a traditional Tlingit Clan house. Look for
performance times posted around town. 200 Katlian St. (next
to the Pioneers' Home), Sitka. Phone 907-747-7290. Toll-free
888-270-8687. http://sitkatours.com/sheetka.html.
Venues
Southeast Alaska Indian Cultural Center
Check out performances at the Southeast Alaska Indian
Cultural Center in Sitka National Historical Park Visitor
Center. Tlingit artists are often working on their art at
the center. Classes are also offered in Tlingit crafts, such
as beadwork, weaving, bentwood-box and box-drum making. 106
Metlakatla St., Sitka. Phone 907-747-8061. http://www.nps.gov/sitk/parkmgmt/southeast-alaska-indian-cultural-center.htm.
Spectator Sports
Sporting events in Sitka are often centered around festivals
and holidays, such as the Mud Ball and softball tournaments
on Labor Day weekend, or the many running events during
festivals, such as the 10K run during WhaleFest in November.
Shopping
For such a small town, Sitka has plenty of interesting
shops. Its Russian items—lacquer boxes, paintings, icons and
nesting dolls—are what set this town apart from the rest in
southeast Alaska.
Contemporary Alaskan art and sculpture by local artists are
available, too, as are quality traditional goods made by the
Tlingits (including silver jewelry, totem poles, carvings
and woven baskets).
For campy Alaska souvenirs to take home, there are plenty of
shops near the pier that sell gold nuggets, totem-pole key
chains and T-shirts. You can also buy smoked salmon (by the
can and the slab).
Bookstores
Old Harbor Books
This independent bookstore sells most everything and is also
a great place to find books relating to the environment and
Alaska Native works. 201 Lincoln St., Sitka. Phone
907-747-8808.
Galleries
Artist Cove Gallery
This gallery has a large selection of local sculpture,
paintings and other works of art. Open daily in summer 10
am-6 pm. Call for winter hours. 241 Lincoln St., Sitka.
Phone 907-747-6990. http://www.artistcovegallery.com.
Baranof Arts and Crafts Association
This local artist gallery is open in summer at Harrigan
Centennial Hall. 330 Harbor Drive, Sitka. Phone 907-747-6536
(summer) or 907-747-3033 (off season). http://www.bacasitka.org.
Sitka Rose Gallery
This shop carries Alaskan art—sculptures, paintings,
baskets, pottery and jewelry—by more than 100 Alaska
artists. It is located in a historic Victorian house with
bright pink Sitka roses cascading from a fence. The gallery
makes a colorful backdrop for a picture. Open May-September
9 am-5:30 pm, October-April 11 am-5:15 pm. 419 Lincoln St.,
Sitka. Toll-free 888-236-1536. http://www.sitkarosegallery.com.
The Fishermen's Eye
This gallery of Alaska art prominently features works by
Sitka residents. Open daily 10 am-5 pm in summer,
Monday-Friday 10 am-5 pm in winter. 239 Lincoln St., Sitka.
Phone 907-747-5502. http://www.fishermenseye.com.
Specialty Stores
Abby's Reflection Apparel and Quiltworks
This is a quilter's store, with Alaska-themed fabrics,
needlework and apparel. 231 Lincoln St., Sitka. Phone
907-747-3510. http://www.abbysreflection.com.
Absolute Fresh Seafoods
This family-owned business sells fresh, canned and smoked
salmon, halibut, rockfish and prawns, and it ships
year-round. It also has great recipes. Open daily 8 am-8 pm
in summer, 10 am-5 pm in winter. 475 Katlian St., Sitka.
Phone 907-747-7577. Toll-free 877-747-7566. http://www.absolutefreshseafoods.com.
Alaska Raptor Center Gift Shop
Unique eagle, raven and other raptor-oriented gifts. The
proceeds fund bird education and hospitalization. Open
mid-May to mid-September Sunday-Friday 8 am-4 pm. 1000
Raptor Way, Sitka. Phone 907-747-8662. Toll-free
800-643-9425. http://www.alaskaraptor.org.
Big Blue Fisheries
An excellent source of fish to ship home. Open in summer
Monday-Friday 9 am-5 pm. 216 Smith St., Unit B, Sitka. Phone
907-966-9999. http://www.alaskasmokedfish.com.
Chocolate Moose and Sitka Flowers
Satisfy your sweet tooth with a sampling of chocolates and
truffles from this shop. Open daily year-round. Closed
Sunday in winter. 104 Lincoln St., Sitka. Phone
907-747-5577. http://www.sitka-flowers.com.
Fairweather Gallery and Gifts
This place has wearable art: hand-painted clothing,
including T-shirts and sweatshirts, as well as scarves,
dresses and jewelry. 209 Lincoln St., Sitka. Phone
907-747-8677. http://www.fairweatherprints.com.
Goldsmith Gallery
From opals to gold nuggets to cloisonne, this locally owned
jewelry shop has it all. Phone 907-747-5744.
Made in Sitka Gift Shop
This small gift shop in the Sitka Tribal Community House
sells locally made artwork, lovebird apparel and Alaska
Native dance T-shirts. Open daily mid-May to mid-September
10 am-3 pm. 200 Katlian St., Sitka. Phone 907-747-7137.
http://sitkatours.com/shop.html.
Russian American Co.
As the name implies, this company sells Russian-made items:
antique samovars, amber and Faberge jewelry, lacquer boxes,
porcelain and Matryoshka nesting dolls (ranging in price
US$10-$3,000). This store has been the place to shop for
anything Russian since 1980. Open in summer Monday-Saturday
10 am-5:30 pm, Sunday 10 am-4 pm; in winter Monday-Saturday
10 am-5 pm, closed Sunday. 407 Lincoln St. (second floor of
the Bayview Trading Co.), Sitka. Phone 907-747-6228.
Toll-free 800-742-6228. http://www.russianamericancompany.com.
Sheldon Jackson Museum Gift Store
The Friends of the Sheldon Jackson Museum sells Alaska
Native woodcarvings, masks, baskets, dolls, ivory and other
items made by Alaska Natives statewide in the museum gift
store. Its book selection is also focused on Alaska Natives.
Native artists demonstrate their crafts on-site. Open daily
mid-May to mid-September 9 am-5 pm; Tuesday-Saturday 10 am-4
pm the rest of the year. Phone 907-747-8981.
Sitka Historical Society and Museum Gift Store
The museum store sells quality Alaska Native arts and gifts,
including shawls, potlatch bowls, drums, silver jewelry and
spirit boxes, plus historical books. Open daily early May to
mid-September 8 am-5 pm; Tuesday-Saturday 10 am-4 pm the
rest of the year. 330 Harbor Drive, Sitka. Phone
907-747-6455. http://www.sitkahistory.org/art-gifts.shtml.
WinterSong Soap Co.
This store sells locally made herbal soaps, lotions and
salves. 419 Lincoln St., Sitka. Toll-free 888-819-8949.
http://www.wintersongsoap.com.
Itinerary
Local Tours
The Sitka visitors centers have a list of companies and
individuals that offer fishing, wildlife and other tours. Be
aware that because Sitka is so small, the cruise lines
prebook many tours when a ship is in port. (The sea-otter
tour is often booked solid, for example.) Most of the tours
offered by local operators are similar to those arranged by
cruise ships. Prices may vary. Allen Marine Tours
This outfit offers sea otter and other wildlife tours,
including a nesting-bird tour to St. Lazaria Island in a
fully enclosed catamaran with wrap-around windows. Mid-May
to mid-September. Call for weekday departures. Phone
907-747-8100. Toll-free 888-747-8101. http://www.allenmarinetours.com.
Dove Island Lodge
This lodge offers fishing and fly-out fly-fishing trips to
its guests. Phone 907-747-5660. Toll-free 888-318-3474.
http://www.doveislandlodge.com.
Harris Aircraft
This company offers floatplane tours of the area. US$199 for
a one-hour tour with a water landing; US$105 for 20 minutes.
404 Airport Road, Sitka. Phone 907-966-3050. http://www.harrisair.com.
Island Fever Diving and Adventures
This outfit offers diving instruction as well as snorkeling,
birding, photography and biking tours. 213 Harbor Drive,
Sitka. Phone 907-747-7871. http://www.islandfeverdiving.com.
Sea Life Discovery Tours
Passengers are taken on a warm, dry underwater experience in
Sitka Sound in a semisubmersible boat. Toll-free
877-966-2301. http://www.sealifediscoverytours.com.
Sitka Sound Ocean Adventures
This company offers guided kayaking tours. 112 Toivo Circle,
Sitka. Phone 907-752-0660. http://www.ssoceanadventures.com.
Sitka Tours
This outfit offers tours of Sitka from a Russian
perspective. Tours last about three hours and are primarily
for cruise ship passengers. Phone 907-747-8443.
Sitka Tribal Enterprises
Walking and bus cultural tours that focus on Alaska Native
history. US$53 for a tour of the town, Sitka National
Historic Park and a performance by the Naa Kahidi dancers.
US$66 includes the Raptor Center as well. 204 Katlian St.,
Sitka. Phone 907-747-7290. Toll-free 888-270-8687. http://sitkatours.com.
Sitka Wildlife Tours
Offers a two-hour van tour of Japonski Island, Totem Park,
Silver Bay and Fortress of the Bear. US$55. Phone
907-747-4712. Toll-free 800-750-4712. http://www.sitkawildlifetours.com.
Dining
Dining Overview
Sitka's restaurant options are limited, and most prominently
feature seafood.
On occasion, a colorful tent, labeled "Crab Feast," is set
up to sell freshly steamed Dungeness crabs. Find it behind
Brenner's Fine Clothing and Gifts at 124 Lincoln St.
Expect to pay within these general guidelines for a dinner
for one, not including drinks, tax or tip: $ = less than
US$10; $$ = US$10-$25; $$$ = US$26-$40; and $$$$ = more than
US$40.
Local & Regional
The Channel Club
A local favorite for grilled steaks, seafood and a large
salad bar, plus a lounge. Try the king crab and prime rib
specials in season. The nautical decor complements views of
Sitka Sound. A courtesy van is available. Open nightly for
dinner. Closed late December-January. $$-$$$. 2906 Halibut
Point Road (about 4 mi/6 km outside of Sitka), Sitka. Phone
907-747-7440. http://www.sitkachannelclub.com.
Victoria's
Stop at Victoria's for tasty soups, sandwiches, salads and
the best breakfast in town. Open mid-May to mid-September
for breakfast, lunch and dinner; mid-September to mid-May
for breakfast and lunch only. $$. 118 Lincoln St. (in the
Sitka Hotel), Sitka. Phone 907-747-3288. Toll-free
888-757-3288. http://www.sitkahotel.net.
Cuisines
American
Sea Mountain Restaurant and Lounge
Overlooking Sitka Sound and Mount Edgecumbe volcano, this
restaurant is north of downtown Sitka overlooking a
nine-hole golf course. It serves American fare—prime rib,
steaks, seafood (including king crab in season) and pasta.
Open May-October Monday-Saturday for lunch and dinner. $$.
301 Granite Creek Road, Sitka. Phone 907-747-5663. http://www.seamountaingolf.com.
Mediterranean
Ludvig's Bistro
This tiny, 30-seat Mediterranean restaurant features a great
menu and Sitka's most elegant dining. Named for Beethoven,
Ludvig's is cozy, with Moroccan tapestries and wooden wine
racks decorating the mustard-colored walls. Try the chef's
Spanish-influenced fare, Alaska-style tapas, Caesar salad
with bacon-wrapped scallops, the chef's Katlian Special
salmon, Sitka rose-covered chocolate cake and the freshly
baked breads. Open May-September for dinner. Reservations
recommended. $$$-$$$$. 256 Katlian St., Sitka. Phone
907-966-3663. http://www.ludvigsbistro.com.
Cafes & Tearooms
Harry's Soda Shop
A 1950s-style soda fountain located inside Harry Race
Pharmacy and Photo, Harry's is the place for ice cream. Try
the Blue Lake shake, a Tsunami or Mount Edgecumbe Eruption.
Open year-round Monday-Friday 8:30 am-6 pm, Saturday 9 am-5
pm, Sunday 11 am-4 pm. 106 Lincoln St., Sitka. Phone
907-747-8006. http://www.whitesalaska.com.
Coffeehouses
Highliner Coffee Co.
This coffeehouse and Internet cafe has excellent pastries.
Try the breakfast-stuffed croissants and Scandinavian
cookies. Old fishing photos provide the decor. Open daily
year-round. $. 327 Seward St., Sitka. Phone 907-747-4924.
http://www.highlinercoffee.com.
The Backdoor Cafe
Free-trade organic coffee, homemade soups, yummy baked
goods, freshly squeezed juices and a delightful environment
with local art on display. Open daily year-round. $. 104
Barracks St., Sitka. Phone 907-747-8856.
Seafood
The Raven Dining Room
Wonderful views of the harbor accompany excellent seafood
and salads. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
$$-$$$. 330 Seward St. (inside the Westmark Sitka Hotel),
Sitka. Phone 907-747-6241. http://www.westmarkhotels.com/sitka-food.php.
The Wild Spot
This seasonal seafood cart is laden with fresh halibut,
salmon, prawns and other seafood from the Absolute Fresh
Seafood Co. commercial processing plant. Open daily 11 am-5
pm in summer. $-$$. 236 Lincoln St., Sitka. Phone
907-738-0134. http://www.absolutefreshseafoods.com.
Two Chicks and a Kabob Stick
Honey-glazed or spice-rubbed halibut, salmon, steak or prawn
kabobs are the specialty at this restaurant run by two Sitka
sisters. It also serves sandwiches and tacos. Open
May-September. $-$$. 124 Lincoln St., Sitka. Phone
907-738-2919. http://www.chickskabob.com.
Security
Personal Safety
Crime is minimal in Sitka. But use common sense: Be aware of
your surroundings at all times.
Sitka is in brown bear country, so the city of Sitka offers
"Living with Bears," a pamphlet about bear safety. http://www.cityofsitka.com/documents/livingwithbears.pdf.
Health
Mosquitoes and other nippers can be bothersome, so carry a
good insect repellent on hikes, preferably one containing
deet as an active ingredient. And always be aware of the
possibility of encountering a bear. If you do, don't
approach it, and try to avoid quick actions that may alarm
it. Inquire locally for details on recent bear activity and
more advice on how to behave around the animals.
The Sitka Community Hospital is north of town at 209 Moller
Avenue, off Halibut Point Road (phone 907-747-3241). Moore
Clinic is at 814 Halibut Point Road. Phone 907-747-3446.
There are also two pharmacies: Harry Race Pharmacy and Photo
at 106 Lincoln St. (phone 907-747-8006) and White's
Pharmacy, at 705 Halibut Point Road. Phone 907-747-5755.
http://www.whitesalaska.com.
Disabled Advisory
Sitka Tours and Sitka Tribal Tours both have vans that
accommodate wheelchairs. All major attractions are
wheelchair accessible, as is the Sitka Tribal Enterprises
Community Ride bus. For assisted rides, phone 907-747-8617
(Monday-Friday 8 am-4 pm).
Dos & Don'ts
Don't forget your rain jacket, because Sitka is in a rain
forest.
Do look for the differences between Haida poles, which leave
blank spaces between figures, and Tlingit poles.
Do walk to the top of Castle Hill, which offers views of
Sitka Sound.
Don't leave Sitka without visiting Princess Maksutov's grave
at the Russian Cemetery.
Do pick up a tide table from Sitka National Historical Park
or any store that sells fishing supplies and head to Totem
Beach, John Brown's Beach or Halibut Point State Recreation
Area to look for sea stars, sand dollars, hermit crabs,
mussels, anemones and barnacles.
Do tune into Whale Radio at 88.1 FM to listen to live whale
songs 24 hours daily.
Don't forget to remove your hat if you are male and cover
your head with a scarf if you are female when visiting St.
Michael's Cathedral. Most parishioners will lend you a
scarf.
Do be considerate of locals and ask permission before taking
photographs.
Don't stand in the middle of the street when taking
photographs.
Hotels
Hotel Overview
Sitka has hotel rooms in addition to bed-and-breakfasts,
lodges, campgrounds, RV parks, a youth hostel and even a
lighthouse on a private island for large groups. Lodge stays
often include various tours and gourmet meals.
Reservations are a must May-August. Accommodations tend to
fill up six to 12 months ahead of time for summer.
Hotel Listings
Phone: (1) 907-747-6241
Fax: (1) 907-747-5486
Toll Free: (1) 800-544-0970
Westmark Sitka
330 Seward St 99835
wmsit-fd@hollandamerica.com http://www.westmarkhotels.com
101 Guest Rooms • 2 Meeting Rooms • Restaurant[s] • Pets
Allowed
Location: Near the harbor in heart of downtown
Nearby Points of Interest: Totem Park (Historic Site) - .7
mi • Alaska Raptor Rehabilitation Center (Visitor Center) -
.7 mi
Facts
Geostats
Passport/Visa Requirements: All U.S. citizens must have a
passport when traveling by air to or from Bermuda, Canada,
the Caribbean, Central and South America and Mexico.
Citizens of Canada, Mexico and the British Overseas
Territory of Bermuda also must have a passport or other
designated secure document to enter the U.S.
Passports are required for land crossings at the Canadian
and Mexican borders with the U.S. and for cruise passengers
returning to the U.S. from Mexico, the Caribbean, Canada or
Bermuda. Reconfirm travel-document requirements with your
carrier prior to departure.
Population: 8,627.
Time Zone: 9 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (-9 GMT).
Daylight Saving Time is observed from the second Sunday in
March to the first Sunday in November.
Voltage Requirements: 110 volts.
Telephone Codes: 907, area code for all of Alaska;
Money
Currency Exchange
Currency can be obtained at any of the banks in town. First
National Bank (318 Lincoln St., phone 907-747-7000) and
Wells Fargo Bank (300 Lincoln St., phone 907-747-3226) are
near the pier, and both have ATMs. Other options include
Alaska Pacific Bank (315 Lincoln St., phone 907-747-8688),
ALPS Federal Credit Union (401 Halibut Point Road., phone
907-747-6261) and First Bank (203 Lake St., phone
907-747-6636).
Taxes
Sitka has a 5% sales tax, a 6% bed tax and an 11%
hotel-occupancy tax. May-September, the sales tax increases
to 6% and the hotel-occupancy tax to 12%.
Tipping
Tip 15% in restaurants unless good service warrants more.
Weather
Sitka has an average summer temperature of 60 F/15 C. The
coldest month is January, which has an average high of 29
F/-2 C. August is the warmest month, averaging 62 F/16 C.
June-August tends to be drier than the rest of the year. The
weather in Sitka is generally unpredictable because Sitka
resides in a temperate rain forest.
What to Wear
Layering is the key to comfort in southeast Alaska. Start
with a short- or long-sleeve shirt and long pants; add a
fleece vest or jacket, sweater or hooded sweatshirt. The
next layer should be a light waterproof jacket with a hood
or hat for drizzly days, accompanied by comfortable
weather-resistant walking shoes. Take shorts just in case
the sun shines. Attire is casual and practical.
Communication
Telephone
There are public telephones in Harrigan Centennial Hall. 330
Harbor Drive, Sitka.
Cell phone coverage is generally good in town, but check
with your service providor to make sure your phone will work
once you arrive.
Internet Access
Sitka's Kettleson Memorial Library at 320 Harbor Drive has
computers and Internet access. Open Monday-Friday 10 am-9
pm, Saturday and Sunday 1-9 pm. Phone 907-747-8708.
Highliner Cafe
This cafe offers Internet access with phones and phone
cards. Phone 907-747-4924. http://www.highlinercoffee.com.
Mail & Package Services
The post office, located east of the town center, is open
Monday-Friday 8:30 am-5:30 pm. 1207 Sawmill Creek Road.
Phone 907-747-3381.
There is also a Pioneer Station Postal Unit at 338 Lincoln
St. Phone 907-747-8491.
Newspapers & Magazines
Sitka's weekday newspaper is The Daily Sitka Sentinel
(http://www.sitkasentinel.com). It also produces the free
travel guide All About Sitka, available at many locations
throughout town and online at http://www.travelsitka.com.
Transportation
Sitka's Rocky Gutierrez airport (SIT) is about 2 mi/3 km
west of Sitka on Japonski Island. Car rentals and taxis are
available at the airport. There is currently no shuttle
service. There is daily jet service into Sitka.
Alaska Marine Highway ferries also stop in Sitka during the
summer months. From Juneau, it's about 5-6 hours aboard the
fast ferry Fairweather. The Sitka Tours ferry shuttle bus
provides service from the ferry terminal for US$8 one way.
The ferry terminal is 7 mi/11 km from downtown at 5307
Halibut Point Road. Phone 907-747-3300. Toll-free
800-642-0066 for reservations. http://www.dot.state.ak.us/amhs/index.shtml.
Sitka is such a small town that you can see almost
everything on foot—unless you have difficulty walking or are
very short of time. Transportation options include the
Visitors Transit Bus that loops the attractions every
half-hour when large cruise ships are in town (1,000 or more
visitors). US$10 for an all-day pass, US$5 one-way to the
Alaska Raptor Center. Phone 907-747-7290.
Sitka Tribal Enterprises operates a public bus called the
Community Ride, which operates 6:30 am-6:30 pm. An all-day
pass is US$5 adults. The buses are wheelchair accessible.
Phone 907-747-7103. Toll-free 888-270-8687. http://publictransit.sitkatribe.org.
Several taxi companies serve the area. You can usually find
a cab near the pier or cruising the city. Most offer tours.
Rental cars also are available, but make reservations in
advance during summer months. Expect to pay US$65 a day.
Events
Calendar
Sitka's diverse history means there are plenty of festivals
and events year-round. During Russian Orthodox Christmas (7
January), people carry brightly decorated stars around town,
eating and drinking along the way—an event that's called
"starring." It's sponsored by St. Michael's Russian Orthodox
Church. Phone 907-747-8120.
February features the Sitka Jazz Festival (http://www.sitkajazzfestival.com).
March is Arti Gras, Sitka's spring gallery walk and music
celebration (http://www.artigras.info). April is when the
town's fishing fleet is blessed.
Following the Mother's Day Quilt Show, the Sitka Salmon
Derby is in late May, and the popular Sitka Summer Music
Festival is in June. This month-long chamber-music festival
attracts famous artists and includes daily concerts, a crab
feed, boat parties, a Chocolate Rhapsody Dessert party, an
ice cream social and other events. http://www.sitkamusicfestival.org.
The Sitka Fine Arts Camp at Mount Edgecumbe High School,
also in June, is a month of fine arts for teenagers and
elementary students (http://www.fineartscamp.org). The
Fourth of July features a crafts fair, parade, fireworks and
food. Also in July is the Home Skillet Music Festival, an
all-ages event featuring local and out-of-town bands playing
soul, hip-hop and rock-n-roll.
The appropriately named Mudball Classic Softball tournament
is in September, a rainy month (http://www.sitkasoftball.com).
The Running of the Boots and Season's End Celebration is an
annual family event, also in September, involving decorated
rubber boots (locals refer to them as Sitka sneakers).
http://www.runningoftheboots.org.
Mid-October is the annual Alaska Day Festival, which
celebrates the actual transfer ceremony in Sitka in 1867
when the U.S. purchased Alaska from Russia (http://www.alaskadayfestival.org).
November is the Native American Heritage Festival, an annual
fashion show and parade, and a gathering of Alaska Native
peoples. WhaleFest in early November celebrates marine
wildlife with educational lectures by biologists, a sea
chantey concert and marine tours. Phone 907-747-7964.
http://www.sitkawhalefest.org.
In late November and December, Sitkans celebrate the
holidays with a bazaar, polar dip, parade and the Sitka
Artisans Market. http://sitkacoc.com/sitka-artisans-market.html.
Skagway, Alaska
Overview
Introduction
Located at the northern end of the Inside Passage, Skagway,
Alaska, emerged in the late 1890s as a makeshift gold-rush
town of tents and shacks with a population of 8,000-10,000
adventurers who arrived by boat with supplies for the
hellish trek overland to the Yukon gold fields. Of course,
the town had its temptations, too: painted ladies, gambling
houses and 80 saloons. A famous person from that time is
Jefferson R. "Soapy" Smith, a con artist who ran Skagway and
swindled new arrivals out of their savings. (He was killed
in a shoot-out in 1898.)
Today, Skagway's rushers arrive on cruise ships. Next to
Juneau, Skagway is the most popular port in southeast
Alaska. The town has become something of a gold-rush theme
park: Much of Skagway has been painstakingly restored and
designated as the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical
Park. Locals dress in 1890s costumes and give tours in
vintage autos. Dance-hall girls kick up their legs in
restored saloons, and Soapy Smith is immortalized in the
play Days of '98.
Although some may find Skagway overly cute and contrived
(not to mention crowded when cruise ships are docked), the
town can be a fun place to visit and relive the past with
the friendly residents.
Must See or Do
Sights—The Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park with
many of Skagway's gold-rush era buildings, exhibits and a
free movie; vistas from the White Pass & Yukon Route
Railroad; turnouts on the Klondike Highway.
Museums—Gold-rush artifacts in Skagway City Museum; exhibits
in the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad train depot; family
posessions at the Moore Cabin.
Memorable Meals—Sweet Tooth Cafe or Glacial Smoothies for
breakfast or lunch; the Skagway Fish Co. or the Stowaway
Cafe on the waterfront for fresh Alaska halibut and salmon;
Starfire for Thai cuisine; Olivia's Bistro in the historic
Skagway Inn for chicken pot pie, beer-sauteed carrots and
baby greens from the garden; Kone Kompany for ice cream.
Late Night—The Red Onion Saloon features a brothel museum,
varied music and plenty of food; the Skagway Brewing Co.
offers local microbrews and food; Eagles Hall has Days of
'98, the state's longest-running play.
Walks—The Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park's free
narrated walking tour of downtown; Lower Dewey Lake and the
Chilkoot trails.
Especially for Kids—Earning a Junior Trail Ranger badge at
the National Park Service visitors center at Second and
Broadway; the Skagway Convention and Visitors Bureau's "Kids
Itinerary," which involves walking, exploring, rides and ice
cream.
Geography
The gateway to the Klondike is at the northern tip of
Alaska's Inside Passage at the head of Lynn Canal. A
triangle of flat land wedged between mountains on two sides
and ocean on the third, Skagway still feels like a frontier
town, with boardwalks and false-fronted buildings.
The Skagway River and the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad
flank the town on either side. State ferries and cruise
ships dock downtown, and you can walk anywhere in town, much
of which is part of the historic district. The town is 15
blocks long and four blocks wide.
Both the railroad and the highway to Canada climb above the
treeline in a few miles/kilometers, offering expansive views
of the northern tip of the Inside Passage and the town
hemmed in by ocean and snow-dusted mountains.
Skagway and Haines are the only two southeast Alaskan
communities that are accessible via road from the rest of
North America. Skagway is approximately 819 mi/1,318 km from
Anchorage and 702 mi/1,133 km from Fairbanks. Even though
Skagway is only 14 mi/22 km northeast of Haines, it's about
a one-hour ferry ride and 359 mi/578 km via road.
History
Skagua, home of the north wind, began as a Tlingit hunting
and fishing area at the head of a traditional trading route
through the coastal mountains. Capt. William Moore of Canada
homesteaded the area in the late 1880s and named it
Mooresville. When gold was discovered in the Klondike in
1896, gold seekers steamed up the Inside Passage to Skagway.
From town, miners hauled the required "ton of goods" over
the precipitous Chilkoot (the poor man's trail) or the White
Pass trails through the mountains to the Canadian gold
fields 600 mi/965 km inland. The "Golden Stairs" of Chilkoot
Pass saw a long, black line of miners hiking, with heavy
packs on their back, single-file up steps chopped into the
snow. Some of these stampeders were forced to hike this
trail as many as 30 times in order to transport their
required gear. Dead Horse Gulch is a landmark reminder of
the 3,000 horses that died crossing the White Pass Trail.
The trip got easier in 1900 with the construction of the
White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad. It took brute strength,
450 tons of explosives and the lives of 35 men to complete
this engineering landmark, a narrow-gauge railway that
climbs from tidewater to 2,865 ft/888 m in 20 mi/32 km. The
Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, Days of '98
show, and a train ride commemorate this era of Skagway's
history.
The newspaper provides a historic timeline at http://www.skagwaynews.com/skagwaytimeline.html.
Port Information
Location
Most ships pull in at the railroad dock at the southeast end
of Skagway. The dock can accommodate two large ships. A few
yards/meters away is the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad
station where passengers board vintage parlor cars for the
train ride to the White Pass, a route followed by gold-rush
prospectors headed for the Yukon in the 1890s. Next door, in
the old depot, is the visitors center for the Klondike Gold
Rush National Historical Park, which offers information and
guided walking tours.
The Skagway Convention and Visitors Bureau is in the
historic Arctic Brotherhood (A.B.) Hall, about two blocks
from the dock, at Second and Broadway. Open Monday-Friday 8
am-6 pm, Saturday and Sunday 8 am-5 pm in summer;
Monday-Friday 8 am-5 pm in winter. Phone 907-983-2854.
Toll-free 888-762-1898 for brochure requests. http://www.skagway.com.
Shore Excursions
Consider signing up for the excursions offered by your ship.
They may not be the least expensive way to see the area, but
you won't have to waste your limited time making
arrangements yourself—and you won't have to worry about
missing the ship. Shore excursions and their prices vary
from cruise line to cruise line. Some may include lunch and
drinks or additional stops. Check with your ship's
shore-excursion staff or your travel agent for additional
information.
Adventures can include a trip on the White Pass & Yukon
Route Railroad, flightseeing, dogsledding, fishing, bike and
jeep adventures, panning for gold, or various historical or
sightseeing hikes.
Potpourri
The Canadian government required gold-seekers to carry huge
amounts of supplies, including 400 lbs/141 kg of flour, 200
lbs/90 kg of bacon and 100 lbs/45 kg of beans.
In the late 1800s, Skagway was the largest city in Alaska
because of the number of gold prospectors who passed through
town.
Of the 100,000 gold-seekers who started the Chilkoot Trail,
only 30,000 arrived at Dawson City.
The Golden Circle consists of Skagway, Haines, Whitehorse,
Haines Junction and Juneau.
In mid-December, Skagway receives about 12 minutes of
sunlight each day. In the summer, it receives about two
hours of darkness per day.
The White Pass & Yukon Railroad is an International Historic
Civil Engineering Landmark (along with the Eiffel Tower,
Statue of Liberty and the Panama Canal).
Thirty-five men died building the White Pass & Yukon
Railroad.
Soapy Smith and his crew used to feed the hungry and then
rob them in their sleep.
In 1916, Skagway was coined the "Garden City of Alaska"
because more than half of the residents had gardens.
Skagway was the first city incorporated in Alaska on 28 June
1900.
Skagway comes from a Tlingit word that has many
interpretations, including windy place with white caps on
the water, home of the north wind, or end of salt water.
See & Do
Sightseeing
There is much to see in and around Skagway. For the visitor
who is short on time, we recommend one of the many organized
tours available. A sightseeing opportunity that shouldn't be
missed is a ride on the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad.
Historic Sites
From the harbor northeast along Broadway (the town's main
street) are seven blocks of restored saloons and storefronts
that are part of the Historic Park, much of which is owned
by the National Park Service. Among the more interesting
sights on Broadway are Soapy Smith's Parlor (where the
"boss" of Skagway held court until he was shot), the Mascot
Saloon (with exhibits on saloon life), the Golden North
Hotel (now shops full of gold-rush-era furnishings and,
reportedly, a friendly female ghost) and Eagles Hall (the
state's longest-running play, Days of '98, is still
performed there). Gold Rush Cemetery
If you want to stretch your legs, walk 2 mi/3 km northeast
of town to the Gold Rush Cemetery and visit the graves of
notorious swindler Soapy Smith and the heroic town surveyor
Frank Reid, who finally stopped Soapy with a bullet.
Beautiful Reid Falls is behind the cemetery—well worth the
short walk.
Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park
This historical park's visitors center makes an excellent
introduction to Skagway. To get a stirring introduction to
gold-rush fever, take time to watch the center's excellent
25-minute movie, Gold Fever: Race to the Klondike, about
Skagway's Klondike history. It's shown every hour except 10
am, when the rangers give a 45-minute talk on various
topics. The National Park Service rangers also offer
45-minute walking tours of the town seven times daily.
Visitor center open daily 8 am-6 pm early May-late
September. Museum (downstairs) open daily 8 am-6 pm May-
September, daily 8 am-5 pm October-April. Second and
Broadway (in the restored White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad
depot), Skagway. Phone 907-983-2921. http://www.nps.gov/klgo.
Moore Cabin
Skagway's founder, Capt. William Moore, built this cabin in
1888, and it has been restored to its 1904 appearance. It
documents pioneer life—many of the family's original
possessions are on display. Tours of the cabin are
available. Open daily 10 am-5 pm late May-early September.
Fifth Avenue (between Broadway and Spring Street), Skagway.
Phone 907-983-2921.
White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad
The most spectacular scenery in the area is from the White
Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, a narrow-gauge line built in
1898 that takes you on a scenic ride along the historic
Klondike Trail. Ride in old-fashioned, wheelchair-accessible
parlor cars as you climb to the 3,000-ft-/930-m-high summit
of White Pass. Most visitors opt for the three- to four-hour
summit loop that includes stunning views of Bridal Veil
Falls in a 20-mi/32-km stretch past Dead Horse Gulch and
Inspiration Point. Tickets are sold at the depot. US$110
adults, US$55 for children ages 3-12. 231 Second Ave.,
Skagway. Toll-free 800-343-7373. http://www.wpyr.com.
Museums
Skagway City Museum
This museum is located in the 1899 stone McCabe Building
(also the city hall). The descendants of Skagway's first
settlers meticulously preserved artifacts, photos and
records of the town's history, and those items form the
nucleus of the museum. Also on display are artifacts of the
Native American tribes of southeast Alaska, as well as some
Inupiat and Yup'ik Eskimo materials. Open Monday-Friday 9
am-5 pm, Saturday 10 am-5 pm, Sunday noon-4 pm
May-September. Call for an appointment in winter. US$2
adults, free for children younger than 12. Located at the
corner of Seventh and Spring streets, Skagway. Phone
907-983-2420. http://www.skagwaymuseum.org.
Nature
Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve
This place can only be reached by boat or plane
May-September, but it is well worth a visit to see
snow-covered mountain ranges rising more than 15,000
ft/4,650 m, coastal beaches, tidewater glaciers and deep
fjords. Several companies offer flightseeing tours, another
excellent way to see the park. Park headquarters are at
Bartlett Cove in Gustavus, and the park's visitors center is
located in Glacier Bay Lodge. Phone 907-697-2230. http://www.nps.gov/glba.
Recreation
The more adventurous might enjoy rock climbing along the
White Pass Trail or exploring the ghost-town ruins of Dyea
by bike or horseback. An Alaskan sled dog and musher's camp
takes visitors for wheeled dogsled rides. Visitors also have
the option of taking a helicopter flightseeing tour or
dogsledding on a glacier. Other adventures combine
wilderness or snowshoe hikes with helicopter flights.
Adventures by sea include catamaran whale-watching cruises,
a Chilkoot Trail hike and floatplane adventure, fishing and
kayaking.
Bicycling
Sockeye Cycle
Cyclists should enjoy Sockeye Cycle's five- or 10-day Canal
Road Tour, which explores the Northeast Yukon Territory, or
a self-guided, multiday tour of the Golden Circle, which
includes Haines and Skagway. For those with limited time,
opt for Skagway by bike, a 1.5-hour ride for US$45 with the
option of a snack and tour of Jewell Gardens (US$63) or a
snack and brewery tour (US$67). Call for prices of multiday
tours. Phone 907-983-2851. http://www.cyclealaska.com.
Hiking & Walking
Strolling through the flat streets of downtown Skagway is an
easy trip back in time to the gold-rush days. See the
walking tour suggestions at http://www.skagway.com/skagwaywalkingtour.html.
Close to town are two short, easy hikes: Yakutania Point
(1.6 mi/2.6 km round-trip) and Gold Rush Cemetery and Lower
Reid Falls (4 mi/6.4 km round-trip). The Skagway Trail Map
describes these and more challenging trails and access
points. http://www.skagway.com/skagwaytrailmap.html.
Chilkoot Trail
The 33-mi-/53-km-long Chilkoot Trail follows the route that
prospectors took into gold country. The trail starts in the
ghost town of Dyea, near Skagway. The hike takes a few
days—it took gold-rush stampeders three months. But even a
couple of hours can give you a sampling of the ruggedly
beautiful land around Skagway.
On the sides of the trail, the National Park Service has
preserved skeletons of boats, telegraph cables, cans, boots,
stoves and other items that stampeders tossed along the way.
It crosses the border between the U.S. and Canada, so you'll
need to take a passport and to purchase permits. Most hikers
take the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad back to Skagway.
Be sure to visit the National Park Service Chilkoot Trail
Center, open June-Labor Day daily 8 am-5 pm. Make
reservations with both the U.S. National Park Service and
Parks Canada. Phone 907-983-9234. http://www.nps.gov/klgo/planyourvisit/chilkoottrail.htm
or http://www.pc.gc.ca/lhn-nhs/yt/chilkoot/index.aspx.
Lower Dewey Lake Trail
This trail is an easy one-hour hike that leads, naturally,
to Lower Dewey Lake, about 1 mi/1.6 km southeast of town.
You can hike on a path that circles the water (3.6 mi/5.8
km), and if you want to go farther, continue on the trail at
the north end of the lake—it leads into higher country. Be
aware that the trail is quite steep. The trailhead is at the
edge of town—take Third Avenue east and cross the railroad
tracks.
Nightlife
Skagway is certainly a small town, and nightlife options are
therefore limited. The most popular option is a rowdy night
at The Red Onion Saloon.
Bars, Taverns & Pubs
Skagway Brewing Co.
Dating from 1897 and starting again in 2007, the Skagway
Brewing Co. is a local hot spot with handcrafted microbrew
beers and pub grub, including crab cakes, hot wings and
Philly steaks. Open year-round. Seventh and Broadway,
Skagway. Phone 907-983-2739. http://www.skagwaybrewing.com.
The Red Onion Saloon
Claiming to have been Skagway's most exclusive brothel, The
Red Onion Saloon is a renovated dance hall and bordello
built in 1898, now on the National Historic Register. It was
moved to its present location in 1914 (the movers
accidentally installed it backward). Now it's a thoroughly
respectable establishment, though it can still get pretty
wild at night. It serves sandwiches, pizza, chili, stew and
nachos and is smoke-free. You can tour the historic brothel,
and keep an eye out for Lydia, the resident ghost. Open
April-October daily from 10 am. $-$$. Most major credit
cards. 205 Broadway (corner of Second Street), Skagway.
Phone 907-983-2222. http://www.redonion1898.com.
Performing Arts
Check out the longest-running show in Alaska, Days of '98, a
stage show about Soapy Smith. Shows at 10:30 am, 12:30 and
2:30 pm mid-May to mid-September, and at 8 pm June-August.
Eagles Hall, Sixth and Broadway. Phone 907-983-2545.
http://thedaysof98show.eskagway.com.
The Skagway Arts Council sponsors the Skagway International
Folk Festival in April and the North Woods Writers Symposium
in June. http://skagwayartscouncil.blogspot.com.
Spectator Sports
What Skagway lacks in regular sports teams, it makes up for
in special events held throughout the year, such as the
International Softball Tournament in July, the Klondike Road
Relay (110-mi/177-km overnight race from Skagway to
Whitehorse in the Yukon Territory, Canada) and the Buckwheat
Ski Classic in March.
The Skagway Convention and Visitors Bureau keeps an
up-to-date list of events at http://www.skagway.com/events.html.
Shopping
Gold nuggets, jewelry, fur hats, train whistles, train
T-shirts—Skagway's shops, both on and just off Broadway, are
packed with such items. Many Skagway shops don't have set
hours but vary according to cruise-ship schedules. Quite a
few are open mid-May to mid-September and closed in winter.
Bookstores
Skaguay News Depot and Books
This historic bookstore and newsstand has a good selection
of Alaska and Yukon books, maps, calendars, magazines and
out-of-town newspapers. Open daily 9 am-6 pm in summer;
Monday-Friday noon-5 pm, Saturday and Sunday 1-4 pm in
winter. 260 Broadway, Skagway. Phone 907-983-3354. http://www.skagwaybooks.com.
Skagway Museum Store
The Skagway Trail of '98 Museum store offers books and
gold-rush memorabilia. Open in summer. 700 Spring St.,
Skagway. Phone 907-983-2420.
Galleries
A Gathering of Spirits
The artist sculpts wood, ivory and antler and creates
jewelry. He also shows the work of other Alaskan and Yukon
artists. Open in summer. Fifth and Sixth streets (in the old
barber shop), Skagway. Phone 907-983-3874. http://www.agatheringofspirits.com.
Corrington's Alaskan Ivory
Corrington's has a nice selection of objects made from
walrus ivory, soapstone, gold and Alaska jade, as well as
Lladro figurines and hand-carved antlers. Open in summer.
525 Broadway, Skagway. Phone 907-983-2579.
Kirmse's
Cara Cosgrove has reopened the old Kirmses Curios, a jewelry
and watch-repair store from 1897, known for the two Alaska
Native totems outside. Cosgrove sells locally crafted fine
art and jewelry, specializing in fossil ivory carvings. Open
in summer. 500 Broadway, Skagway. Phone 907-983-3773.
Lynch & Kennedy
Lynch & Kennedy specializes in Native American artwork,
sculpture, prints, totemic rugs, knives, glass art, Alaska
Native masks and jewelry. Open in summer. 350 Broadway,
Skagway. Phone 907-983-3034. Toll-free 866-983-3034. http://www.lynch-kennedy.com.
Rushin' Tailor's Quilt Alaska/Changing Threads
Alaska- and Northern-themed fabrics, quilt kits, patterns,
Alaskan-dyed yarns, and needlepoint and other needle-art
projects are available at this friendly store, which also
includes Changing Threads. You can also find qiviut, wool
from the undercoat of the musk ox. Open Monday-Saturday 9
am-5 pm May-September, or when cruise ships are in town;
Wednesday-Saturday noon-4 pm October-April. 370 Third Ave.,
Skagway. Phone 907-983-2397. Toll-free 800-981-5432. http://www.quiltalaska.com.
Markets
You Say Tomato
A good but pricey natural-foods store with freshly baked
bread and provisions for hikers. North Eden Cafe, located
inside the store, offers wraps and range-raised buffalo
burritos 7:30 am-2:30 pm seasonally. Open Monday-Friday 11
am-7:30 pm, Saturday and Sunday noon-6:30 pm in summer;
Tuesday-Saturday noon-6:30 in winter. State at 21st Avenue,
Skagway. Phone 907-983-2784. http://yousaytomatoskagway.blogspot.com.
Specialty Stores
Dedman's Photo Shop and Art Gallery
For the history buff, Dedman's Photo has old-time photos of
Skagway. They aren't out on the counter for casual browsers,
but if you're interested, ask and staff members will be glad
to dust them off for you. The store also has shirts, lip
balm, chocolate (try the Grizzly Bar) and other souvenirs
plus an upstairs art gallery. Open in summer. Third and
Broadway, Skagway. Phone 907-983-2353. http://www.coldnosegifts.com.
Dejon Delights
A Haines family business, Dejon Delights sells smoked salmon
and halibut, plus it gives free samples. You'll also find
other Alaska foods (birch syrups, jams, salmon jerky, canned
salmon), kitchen accessories, books and gifts. Open daily in
the summer. 387 Fifth Ave., Skagway. Toll-free 800-539-3608.
http://www.alaska-smoked-salmon.com.
Klothes Rush Gifts
Advertised as "Alaskan outfitters for trail, mountain and
home," the Klothes Rush provides everything from everyday
apparel to special clothing commemorating the Chilkoot trail
and other Alaska-themed gifts, including jewelry. Open daily
9 am-7 pm May-September; Monday-Saturday 10 am-5:30 pm
October-April. 499 Broadway, Skagway. Phone 907-983-2370.
Toll-free 800-664-2370. http://www.klothesrush.com.
Richters Jewelry and Curio
This store specializes in gold jewelry and moves a lot of
gold. Open in summer. 220 Broadway, Skagway. Phone
907-983-2424.
Taiya River Jewelry
Since 1976, Casey McBride has been designing beautiful
pieces wrought from gold nuggets found by miners in the
Yukon and British Columbia. Three other goldsmith designers
also sell the creations at the store. Open year-round. 252
Broadway, Skagway. Phone 907-983-2637. Toll-free
800-943-2637. http://www.taiyariverjewelry.com.
The Mountain Shop
This shop does it all: It sells outerwear, clothing and
footwear for outdoor activities, plus offers wilderness
tours and rents climbing and paddling accessories. Open
daily 9 am-8 pm. 355 Fourth Ave., Skagway. Phone
907-983-2544. http://www.packerexpeditions.com.
The Train Shoppe
You can find White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad clothing,
model trains, souvenirs and espresso at the Train Shoppe or
the Little Caboose-on-the-Dock. Open in summer. 231 Second
Ave., Skagway. Phone 907-983-2217. Toll-free 800-343-7373.
http://www.wpyr.com/trainshoppe.
Itinerary
Local Tours
There are several reputable tour operators in Skagway. (The
visitors bureau has a list of fishing charters and wildlife
and other tour outfits.)
Tour options run the gamut from train rides to horseback
riding to rafting to dogsledding. Take in Skagway aboard a
yellow 1920s-era bus and learn about the city's rowdy past
from costumed conductors. Other options include touring a
massive Klondike gold dredge and panning for the yellow
metal, and visiting the gold-rush-era Liarsville Trail. You
can also enjoy an Alaska garden, gourmet cooking and
wine-tasting tour.
Various motorcoach tours take visitors across the scenic
White Pass to Carcross and lunch in Canada's legendary Yukon
Territory.
For a walking tour of historic Skagway sites, see http://www.skagway.com/skagwaywalkingtour.html.
Alaska Garden Gourmet
This escorted Alaska garden tour and hands-on
seafood-cooking demonstration ends with a light meal crafted
from the garden's ingredients at Olivia's Bistro in the
historic Skagway Inn. You leave with recipes and seeds for
your own garden. US$90. 655 Broadway (Seventh & Broadway),
Skagway. Phone 907-983-2289. Toll-free 888-752-4929. http://www.skagwayinn.com/garden.html.
Alaska Travel Adventures
Tours include a Jeep Klondike adventure, gold rush trail and
a Liarsville camp salmon bake. US$45-$139 adults, US$30-$93
child. Phone 907-789-0052. Toll-free 800-323-5757. http://www.bestofalaskatravel.com.
Frontier Excursions and Adventures
Tours range from the Summit & City (city, cemetery and White
Pass summit overlook) to the White Pass train and highway
combination to the river float and White Pass to custom
luxury-SUV charter tours. City and summit US$45; river float
and White Pass US$100 adults, US$70 children ages 12 and
younger; charter luxury SUV US$120 per hour. Call for train
and highway combo pricing. Phone 907-983-2512. Toll-free
877-983-2512. http://www.frontierexcursions.com.
Jewell Gardens and Garden City Glassworks
The organic flower and vegetable garden tour explains why
Skagway is called Alaska's garden city. There's also a
glassblowing theater demonstration. Open mid-May to
mid-September; lunch available at Poppies 11 am-3 pm daily.
US$12. Klondike Highway, Mile 1.5, Skagway. Phone
907-983-2111. http://www.jewellgardens.com.
Skagway Streetcar Co.
This company provides theatrical drivers in gold-rush-era
costumes who take you around town. US$42 adults, US$21
children age 12 and younger. 270 Second Ave., Skagway. Phone
907-983-2908. http://www.skagwaystreetcar.com.
Southeast Tours
One package includes a sightseeing tour of historic Skagway
and the White Pass summit area. The tour crosses the border
with Canada, so all participants must have a passport and
photo I.D. Other options are Yukon sightseeing (US$70),
Yukon mountain biking and hiking or horseback riding
(US$140) and a Chilkoot hike and float trip (US$95). US$50
for city and White Pass, US$70 for Yukon sightseeing, US$95
for Chilkoot hike and float trip, US$140 for Yukon mountain
biking and hiking or horseback riding. Phone 907-983-2990.
http://www.southeasttours.com.
Temsco Helicopters
A helicopter glacial tour and dogsled ride on the Denver
glacier has to be one of the most dramatic Alaskan
adventures. US$479. You can also do a helicopter glacial
discovery tour for US$289. Ore dock (on the waterfront),
Skagway. Phone 907-983-2900. Toll-free 866-683-2900. http://www.temscoair.com.
Dining
Dining Overview
Many of Skagway's restaurants are open only in the
summer—they're definitely geared to tourists. Prices are
high, and waits can be long if several ships are in port at
the same time.
Expect to pay within these general guidelines for a dinner
for one, not including drinks, tax or tip: $ = less than
US$10; $$ = US$10-$25; $$$ = US$26-$40; and $$$$ = more than
US$40.
Local & Regional
Sweet Tooth Cafe
We like this restaurant for its fresh halibut burgers,
sandwiches with freshly baked breads, and homemade soups.
Open year-round for breakfast and lunch, closes 2 pm. $-$$.
Most major credit cards. 315 Broadway, Skagway. Phone
907-983-2405.
The Bonanza Bar and Grill/Chilkoot Dining Room
The Bonanza Bar and Grill section serves salads, burgers and
ribs. The Chilkoot Dining Room serves a variety of Alaskan
and typical American foods. Open mid-May to mid-September
for breakfast, lunch and dinner. $$. Most major credit
cards. Third and Broadway (in the Westmark Inn), Skagway.
Phone 907-983-6214 Bonanza Bar & Grill; 907-983-6000
Chilkoot Dining Room. http://www.westmarkhotels.com.
Cuisines
Asian
Starfire
Serves Thai cuisine for lunch and dinner. Restaurant open
seasonally. $-$$. Most major credit cards. Fourth Avenue
(between Broadway and Spring), Skagway. Phone 907-983-3663.
Italian
American Skagway Pizza Station
Offers a full bar (but it's smoky), pizza, calzones, Alaskan
king crab, pastas and salads. Open for lunch and dinner; bar
open until 2 am. $-$$. 444 Fourth Ave. (in the Fourth Street
Hotel), Skagway. Phone 907-983-2200. http://pizzastation.eskagway.com.
Cafes & Tearooms
Glacial Smoothies and Espresso
This cafe offers daily soup and baked goods along with
espresso, smoothies, sandwiches and ice cream. Internet
available. Open year-round daily 6 am-5 pm. $. 336B Third
Ave., Skagway. Phone 907-983-3223. http://www.glacialsmoothies.com.
Seafood
Olivia's Bistro
Located in historic Skagway Inn, this restaurant features
creatively prepared fresh Alaskan seafood and tapas,
including chicken pot pie, halibut chowder, and
fresh-from-the-garden rhubarb crisp. $. Seventh and
Broadway, Skagway. Phone 907-983-2289. Toll-free
888-752-4929. http://www.skagwayinn.com/olivias.html.
Skagway Fish Co.
This is a true Alaskan seafood restaurant with checkered
tablecloths and rock 'n' roll music. It is noted for its
great halibut-and-chips. Open for lunch and dinner mid-May
to October. $-$$$. 201 Congress Way (on the waterfront
overlooking the small-boat harbor), Skagway. Phone
907-983-3474.
The Stowaway Cafe
This is a local favorite—Skagway's best restaurant—in a
bright blue building with mermaid decor that overlooks the
boat harbor. It serves fresh seafood—grilled or blackened
salmon and halibut—spicy rock fish, wasabi salmon, and great
Caesar salads. Open for brunch, lunch and dinner mid-May to
October. 205 Congress Way, Skagway. Phone 907-983-3463.
http://stowaway.eskagway.com.
Other Options
Kone Kompany
In summer, there's almost always a line at this shop, which
serves homemade fudge, crispy cones and Dreyer's ice cream.
Seasonal. $. 485 Broadway, Skagway. Phone 907-983-3439.
Security
Personal Safety
The crime rate in Skagway is negligible. But use common
sense: Be aware of your surroundings at all times.
Health
Dahl Memorial Clinic, on 14th Avenue between State and
Broadway streets, offers medical care. Phone 907-983-2255.
After hours, call 911.
Although Skagway is seldom plagued by insects, mosquitoes
and other flying critters can be bothersome, so carry a good
insect repellent on hikes, preferably one containing deet as
an active ingredient. Don't drink untreated water from lakes
or streams. No matter how pristine the area seems, people
and animals may be upstream, and it's not wise to take the
chance. And always be aware of the possibility of
encountering a bear. If you do, don't approach it, and try
to avoid quick actions that may alarm it. Inquire locally
for details on recent bear activity and more advice on how
to behave around the animals.
Disabled Advisory
Skagway is one of the most accessible communities in
Southeast Alaska. The terrain is flat, and the historic
downtown is compact. Although boardwalks and some stores
will be a challenge, the streets are wide and most visitors
are on foot. SMART, the local transit authority, provides an
accessible bus. State ferries, cruise ships and the White
Pass & Yukon Route Railroad provide accommodations for
wheelchairs.
Dos & Don'ts
Don't forget to obtain the necessary permits and pay
reservation fees if you plan to hike the Chilkoot Trail.
Do cross the Yukon Suspension Bridge over the white waters
of the Tutshi River. It is located about 30 mi/48 km from
Skagway.
Do ride the legendary White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad,
known as the "toughest 110 miles of track in the world."
Do look for mink, great blue herons, kingfishers, seals,
otters and whales.
Do visit the Gold Rush Cemetery and find Soapy Smith's
tombstone.
Don't use an umbrella if you want to blend in with the
locals. Because of the afternoon breezes, it will probably
blow away anyway.
Hotels
Hotel Overview
In addition to the main hotels—the Sgt. Preston, the White
House, Mile Zero, the Westmark Inn and Skagway Inn—there are
a number of bed-and-breakfast facilities, cabins and
bungalows located throughout the area. Some feature handmade
quilts and antiques; others provide rustic artwork or a
woodsy setting. Reservations are recommended a year in
advance, especially during the summer.
Facts
Geostats
Passport/Visa Requirements: All U.S. citizens must have a
passport when traveling by air to or from Bermuda, Canada,
the Caribbean, Central and South America and Mexico.
Citizens of Canada, Mexico and the British Overseas
Territory of Bermuda also must have a passport or other
designated secure document to enter the U.S.
Passports are required for land crossings at the Canadian
and Mexican borders with the U.S. and for cruise passengers
returning to the U.S. from Mexico, the Caribbean, Canada or
Bermuda. Reconfirm travel-document requirements with your
carrier prior to departure.
Population: 865.
Time Zone: 9 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (-9 GMT).
Daylight Saving Time is observed from the second Sunday in
March to the first Sunday in November.
Voltage Requirements: 110 volts.
Telephone Codes: 907, area code for all of Alaska;
Money
Currency Exchange
The only bank in town, Wells Fargo, is at the corner of
Sixth and Broadway. It has an ATM. Phone 907-983-2264.
Taxes
Skagway has a 3% sales tax and an 8% bed tax. May-September,
the sales tax increases to 5%.
Tipping
In restaurants, leave 15% unless exceptional service
warrants more.
Weather
Skagway's maritime climate features cool summers and mild
winters. Average summer temperatures range from 45-67 F/7-19
C and winter temperatures average 18-37 F/-8 to 3 C.
Skagway gets less rain than most southeast Alaskan
communities, with an average annual precipitation of only
26.5 in/67 cm. Annual snowfall is also light: 49.1 in/125
cm.
This "home of the north wind" has winds from the south in
summer and from the north in winter at a mean wind speed of
15-22 mph/24-35 kph. Most people visit in summer; others
prefer the quieter seasons of early May or mid-September
when golden leaves transform the gold-rush town.
What to Wear
Layering is the key to comfort in southeast Alaska. Start
with short- or long-sleeve shirts and long pants; add a
fleece vest, sweater, hooded sweatshirt or light jacket; and
finish with comfortable waterproof boots or shoes and rain
gear for misty, drizzly days.
You won't need heavy down coats in summer, but you should
take a water-resistant jacket and shorts in case the sun
shines. Attire is casual. In the winter, we recommend that
you wear spikes or some form of grip for the bottom of your
shoes because of the ice on the ground.
Communication
Telephone
Public phones are available at many locations all over town
and at the cruise dock. Cell phone usage is sporadic in town
and on the highway.
Internet Access
Skagway Ports of Call offers Internet service, money orders
and Western Union. Second and State streets. Phone
907-983-3398. Free wireless is also available at the Skagway
Public Library (769 State St.), but it's slow.
Mail & Package Services
The post office is open Monday-Friday 8:30 am-5 pm. It's at
the corner of Sixth and Broadway. Phone 907-982-2330.
Newspapers & Magazines
Be sure to pick up a copy of Skagway from the Skagway
Convention and Visitors Bureau. The Skagway Alaskan also has
important listings of events and local news. The Skagway
News is published twice monthly on the second and fourth
Friday. Phone 907-983-2354. http://www.skagwaynews.com.
Transportation
Downtown Skagway is compact and easy to negotiate on foot.
Skagway Convention and Visitors Bureau offers a listing of
local transportation at http://www.skagway.com/gettingaround.html.
Rental cars are available from a couple of firms downtown.
Call ahead to reserve a vehicle. There is no local taxi
service.
Another option for getting around is a van shuttle provided
by Skagway Municipal and Regional Transit's SMART. It runs
from the ship to shops at the north end of town for US$2 or
US$5 all day, and a wheelchair-accessible bus is also
available. Phone 907-983-2743.
Bicycles are perfect for getting around town and into the
countryside.
The city's airport (SGY) is located in town along the
Skagway River.
Travel by water to Haines and Juneau is available year-round
from the Alaska Marine Highway System state ferry. Alaskans
call them the "blue canoes." Located on the dock at the
ferry terminal. Prices vary according to vehicle size. You
can also walk on. Phone 907-983-2941. Toll-free
800-642-0066. http://www.dot.state.ak.us/amhs/index.shtml.
Summers only, Alaska Fjordlines offers the Fjord Express to
Juneau, leaving Skagway at 8 am and returning to Skagway at
8:15 pm. No vehicles. US$115. Located in Haines. Phone
907-766-3395. Toll-free 800-320-0146. http://www.alaskafjordlines.com.
The Haines-Skagway Fast Ferry provides 45-minute trips
between Haines and Skagway in summer, US$35 one-way, US$68
round-trip. Located at the Small Boat Harbor, Skagway. Phone
(Haines) 907-766-2100. Toll-free 888-766-2103. http://www.hainesskagwayfastferry.com.
For More Information
Convention & Visitors Bureau
Skagway Convention and Visitors Bureau
The bureau is located two blocks from the cruise-ship dock
in the historic Arctic Brotherhood Hall, a unique structure
sporting 8,833 pieces of driftwood on the front facade.
Daily 8 am-6 pm in summer. Second and Broadway, Skagway.
Phone 907-983-2854. Toll-free 888-762-1898 to request a
visitor guide. http://www.skagway.com.
Events
Calendar
Skagway offers a handful of events throughout the year that
will interest visitors. The Buckwheat Ski Classic, a
cross-country ski race to British Columbia, is cause for
celebration in March. Fourth of July festivities include
food, a parade, fireworks, international softball tournament
and a ducky derby. Skagway's infamous con man, Soapy Smith,
gets an annual wake in early July, when the cast of Days of
'98 leads residents and visitors in a toast to the man.
Summer is abloom in Alaska, and the Eastern Star Flower Show
in mid-August showcases Skagway's beautiful gardens. In
September, Skagwayians gear up for the Klondike Trail of '98
International Road Relay, a 110-mi/177-km footrace to
Whitehorse in Canada's Yukon Territory. And to wrap up the
year, the city puts on an annual quilt retreat in October
and a White Pass and Yukon Route Santa train and Yuletide
Ball in December.
The Skagway Convention and Visitors Bureau maintains an
up-to-date list of events at http://www.skagway.com/events.html.
Haines, Alaska
Overview
Introduction
Haines, Alaska, is situated on a spit of land on the west
side of the Lynn Canal along one of the deepest fjords in
the Inside Passage. It is one of only three ports in
southeast Alaska with access to North American roads. As a
result, Haines is a busy place in the summer. Many
vacationers (and their vehicles) ride a ferry to Haines and
head up the Haines Highway to the Alaska Highway into
northwestern Canada and the Alaskan interior. Other visitors
arrive by cruise ship. In warm-weather months, the town's
population swells considerably.
A haven for bald eagles and artists, Haines is distinctive,
with the officers' quarters of historic Fort William H.
Seward nestled around a parade ground and the snowy
6,500-ft/2,015-m Cathedral Peaks towering in the
background—all visible from the water. The first permanent
army post in Alaska, the fort now houses hotels,
restaurants, art galleries, Alaska Indian Arts and the
Chilkat Center.
Each fall, more than 3,500 eagles flock to the Chilkat Bald
Eagle Preserve on the Chilkat River to feast on a late run
of salmon. Several hundred remain in the area throughout the
year.
Must See or Do
Sights—Fort William H. Seward; Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve;
Haines Highway.
Museums—Alaska Native arts and crafts, including a Chilkat
blanket, along with pioneer and gold-rush artifacts at the
Sheldon Museum and Cultural Center; interpretive displays on
the natural history of the Chilkat Valley and its annual
eagle population at the American Bald Eagle Foundation;
1,800 hammers at the Hammer Museum.
Memorable Meals—Chile verde, carne asada tampiqueno or tacos
de pescado with fresh halibut at Mosey's Cantina; warm
chocolate molten cake with pistachio ice cream and cherry
compote at the Halsingland Hotel Commander's Room
Restaurant; fresh crab, seafood and prime rib at the Fort
Seward Lodge Restaurant.
Late Night—The Pioneer Bar on Front Street, featuring a back
bar from 1886; the Officers' Club Lounge at Hotel
Halsingland at Fort Seward.
Walks—Traversing rain forest on the Battery Point Trail;
great views hiking on Mount Riley; Mount Ripinsky's north
peak (3,650 ft/1,132 m); the 7-mi/11-km hike through beach
and forest on the Seduction Point hiking trail.
Especially for Kids—Visiting Dalton City, a replica frontier
town created for the Disney movie White Fang; playing on the
playground at Tlingit Park; skateboarding at Haines Skate
Park.
Geography
The rainy maritime climate of southeast Alaska meets the
drier continental climate of interior Alaska and Canada at
Haines, resulting in warmer and drier conditions during
summer than most southeast Alaska communities. The area
sports not only the hemlock and spruce forests of the
Alaska's Inside Passage rain forest but also pines, birch,
cottonwood and other deciduous trees prevalent in the
interior. Wild berries abound, drawing 120 species of birds,
foremost among them the American bald eagle. Haines has the
largest congregation of bald eagles in the world each fall.
About 3,500 eagles congregate along the Chilkat River in the
Valley of the Eagles.
Tucked on a peninsula between Lynn Canal and the Chilkat
Inlet, Haines is further defined by a backdrop of mountains.
Chilkat Range peaks tower 3,500-6,000 ft/1,085-1,860 m above
the small community. A short flight to the west is Glacier
Bay National Park and Preserve, home to 11 tidewater
glaciers. The drive northwest along the Haines Highway
skirts Kluane National Park and Preserve and the
Tatshenshini-Alsek Provincial Park, both part of the first
binational World Heritage Site, 20 million acres/8.1 million
hectares of protected wilderness that includes the largest
nonpolar ice cap in the world and 350 valley glaciers.
History
Haines has a lot to offer the history buff. Originally
called Deishu (pronounced DAY-shoo), meaning "end of the
trail," it was a trading post and ancestral home for both
the Chilkoot and Chilkat Tlingit tribes. In the late 1800s
and early 1900s, it was one of the gold-rush gateways to the
Klondike. An early entrepreneur, Jack Dalton, used the
Tlingit Trail through the coastal mountains to create a toll
road and charged miners en route to the Klondike. Part of
that trail became the picturesque Haines Highway.
Missionary S. Hall Young and naturalist John Muir chose
Haines as the site for a Presbyterian mission. The town was
named for Francina Haines of the Presbyterian Home Missions
Board. Commercial fishing, three canneries employing
imported Chinese laborers, the timber industry and
agriculture flourished in the fertile area.
An ongoing border dispute between the U.S. and Canada
prompted construction of Fort William H. Seward, named for
the secretary of state who arranged Alaska's purchase from
Russia in 1867. Men, mules and oxen cleared the land.
Foundations for the buildings were cut from local granite,
and by 1904, officers stationed in this wilderness outpost
had ornate Victorian fireplaces and beautifully carved door
and window frames in their quarters. It was the only
military base in Alaska for the next 20 years. The fort was
decommissioned after World War II and is now a National
Historic Landmark.
Port Information
Location
Unlike many other southeast Alaska communities, Haines is
not inundated with cruise ships during the summer. While
some ports get three to five ships a day, Haines sees no
more than three ships each week.
Most cruise ships pull up to the Port Chilkoot dock at the
foot of historic Fort Seward, a few blocks south of the town
center. Some smaller cruise ships dock at the Fast Ferry
dock, a block south of the Port Chilkoot dock. On those rare
occasions when more than one ship is in port, passengers may
be tendered to the dock in smaller craft. There is also a
small-boat harbor downtown, and the Alaska Marine Highway
ferry terminal is 5 mi/8 km north of town.
It's about a 10-minute walk from the docks to downtown. The
visitors center there is open Monday-Friday year-round 8
am-5 pm, Saturday and Sunday 8 am-noon in the summer. The
center has a brochure with a walking-tour map of the town
and Fort Seward. Nature lovers should ask for "Haines is for
Hikers," a brochure listing several nature walks and hikes.
There's also a local bird list (many bald eagles and other
birds spend time in Haines each year). The visitors center
is at 122 Second Ave. S. Phone 907-766-2234. Toll-free
800-458-3579. http://www.haines.ak.us.
Shore Excursions
Popular shore excursions include tours of the town and
surrounding sights by van or bicycle, river-rafting through
the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, kayaking in the area fjords
(Lutak and Taiya inlets), hiking in the Alaskan rain forest
and flightseeing trips to nearby glaciers. Charter boats
offer saltwater fishing, and several outfits guide hunting
trips. There's also fly-in fishing. For motorists, the
Golden Circle drive is a scenic jaunt to the Yukon and
Skagway, and the return to Haines is via a summer water
taxi.
Potpourri
Thanks to an alluvial fan reservoir of relatively warm water
and a late run of salmon, more than 3,500 eagles congregate
in the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, Miles 18-24 Haines
Highway, during the fall. The Chilkat Valley is a year-round
home for 200-400 eagles.
The bald eagle, found only on the North American continent,
can fly at 30 mph/48 kph and reach 100 mph/161 kph during a
dive. Their wing span is 6-8 ft/1.8-2.4 m and they weigh
9-12 lbs/4-5.4 kg, with females slightly larger than males.
They can spot fish, their main diet, from more than a
mile/kilometer away. Eagles mate for life and live up to 30
years. You can recognize an immature eagle by its mottled
brown and white plumage. It takes four to six years for
eagles to develop the characteristic white (bald) head and
tail feathers.
In the early 20th century, when eagles were thought to
threaten salmon runs, there was a US$2 bounty paid for bald
eagle carcasses. The birds are now protected by federal law.
Built in 1903, Fort Seward is Alaska's first military post.
It was designed to be a show place, a symbol of the U.S.
Army's strength in Alaska. The officers' quarters had the
latest conveniences, including indoor flush toilets,
claw-footed bathtubs and marble-topped washstands.
The Alaska Native trade route from water to the interior was
dubbed the "grease trail," because one of the most important
items on the route was oil extracted from eulachon
(pronounced hooligan), tiny candlefish or smelt that are so
oily you can light them and use them as candles.
See & Do
Sightseeing
As you would expect, sightseeing in Haines is heavy on
nature and the history of the Native American people who
live in the area. The scenery is compelling. The Valley of
the Eagles is at the foot of mountains with year-round snow,
wedged between two rivers and at the start of a National
Scenic Byway.
Historic Sites
American Bald Eagle Foundation
This foundation presents a diorama with interpretive
wildlife displays, an eagle education center, gift shop and
information about the Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve.
Open daily in summer; by appointment only in winter. 113
Haines Highway, Haines. Phone 907-766-3094. http://www.baldeagles.org.
Dalton City
Another vintage town is located at the fairgrounds in
Haines, though it's not exactly an authentic one: The Walt
Disney Company donated the sets from the 1990 movie White
Fang to the fairgrounds, and they've been used to create
Dalton City, a replica of a frontier gold-rush town. The
Southeast Alaska State Fair takes place at the fairgrounds
in late July. Haines Highway, Haines. Phone 907-766-2476.
http://seakfair.org.
Fort William H. Seward
In the center of the historic district is Fort William H.
Seward, the first U.S. military outpost in Alaska, built
between 1902 and 1904 to maintain an American military
presence during a border dispute with Canada. Home to 1,500
troops during the construction of the Alaska Highway, the
fort was decommissioned in 1947. The ornate Victorian
buildings have been converted to art galleries, a hotel and
a restaurant. On the fort's parade grounds is a replica of
the Raven's Fort Tribal House. A cannery building was moved
to the fort in 1926 and then converted to a recreation
center. It is now the Chilkat Center for the Arts, a
community theater. At the Alaska Indian Arts building
(formerly the fort hospital), you can watch Native American
artisans carve totem poles and create silver and bead
jewelry. Pick up a Fort Seward walking map from the visitor
center or the Sheldon Museum on Main Street. Open
Monday-Friday 9 am-5 pm in summer. Fort Seward Drive,
Haines. Phone 907-766-2160. http://alaskaindianarts.com or
http://www.sheldonmuseum.org/fortwilliamseward.htm.
Museums
Hammer Museum
This unusual museum features more than 1,800 hammers from
around the world. The centerpiece is an 800-year-old Tlingit
war hammer that museum founder Dave Pahl found while digging
the foundation for the museum. Open May-October
Monday-Friday 10 am-5 pm. Admission US$3. 108 Main St.,
Haines. Phone 907-266-2374. http://www.hammermuseum.org.
Sheldon Museum and Cultural Center
This museum displays an extensive collection of Alaskana. It
houses exhibits of Alaska Native artwork as well as
artifacts from gold-rush days. Contemporary local art is
exhibited April-September, and there's a gift shop. 11 Main
St. (downtown), Haines. Phone 907-766-2366. http://www.sheldonmuseum.org.
Nature
If one thing distinguishes Haines from other southeast
Alaska ports, it's the huge number of bald eagles—more than
3,000—that live in the area in the late fall and early
winter. It's the largest gathering of eagles in the world.
(The town postmark reads "Valley of the Eagles.") Even in
spring and summer, 200-400 eagles nest in the area. At that
time of year, the best place to see them is in the Chilkat
Bald Eagle Preserve. Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve
The preserve is located along a 5-mi/8-km stretch of the
Chilkat River, about 18 mi/29 km northwest of Haines.
Visitors can view the birds from the preserve's walkways
along Haines Highway. Look for them at the tops of the
tallest trees. It's easy to pick out their distinctive white
heads against the deep green foliage of the spruce and
hemlock trees. Miles 18-21 Haines Highway, Haines. http://www.baldeagles.org/preserve.html.
Haines Highway
Named a National Scenic Byway, the 44-mi/71-km road from
Haines to the Canadian border is stunning, paralleling the
braided Chilkat River and Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve
at Mile 9-24, Haines Highway. At Mile 22 is the turnoff for
the Alaska Native Chilkat village of Klukwan (http://chilkatindianvillage.org),
and the turnoff for the historic Porcupine Mining District
is at Mile 26. After crossing the border into Canada (you'll
need a passport), the road winds along the edge of the St.
Elias Mountains and skirts the Tatshenshini-Alsek Wilderness
Park and the adjacent Kluane National Park and Preserve, a
UNESCO International World Heritage Site. To the west are
the largest ice fields in the world with the exception of
the polar ice caps. The Haines Highway converges with the
Alaska Highway at Haines Junction in the Yukon Territory at
Mile 151 Haines Highway. http://www.dot.state.ak.us/stwdplng/scenic/byways-haines.shtml
or http://www.haines.ak.us/byway/index.php.
Parks & Gardens
Tlingit Park
Children looking for a place to run around and play will
have a good time there. The park has no fees or set hours,
and it features a playground with a fort, boats, equipment
to climb on and a bear's mouth kids can walk through. First
Avenue and Haines Highway, Haines.
Zoos & Wildlife
Kroschel Films Wildlife Center
Animal trainer and filmmaker Steve Kroschel (Never Cry Wolf,
Out of the Wilderness) has gathered 36 mammals indigenous to
the region in a live-animal wildlife center. Explore more
than 1 mi/1.6 km of trails through park habitat with
people-friendly caribou, coyotes, wolves, wolverines and
other mammals. Guided tours available. Mile 27 Haines
Highway turnoff to Mile 1.8 Mosquito Road, Haines. Phone
907-767-5464. http://www.kroschelfilms.com.
Recreation
As you would expect, recreation in Haines focuses on the
outdoors. Since many visitors go to Haines via cruise ship,
the shore excursions offered by the ships are popular. If
you go to Haines independently, be sure to check out the
visitors center for advice.
Bird Watching
More than half of the 100,000 bald eagles in North America
live in Alaska and British Columbia. Though bald eagles can
be seen anywhere in Southeast Alaska—just scan the trees for
a white head—they are most impressive when they congregate
each fall in the Chilkat Valley near Haines. About 3,000
eagles feed on spawned-out salmon there October-February,
and the town holds a festival in their honor.
Bird-watchers from around the world go to see the Chilkat
Valley gathering of eagles as well as 260 species of birds
and up to 400 eagles year-round. A checklist of local bird
species is available at http://haines.ak.us/tripplanning/birds.pdf.
For more information on birding in Alaska and the Chilkat
Valley, visit http://www.wildlife.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=birding.main
or http://www.wildlife.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=refuge.chilkat.
Boating & Sailing
Several outfits offer jetboat, rafting, kayaking, fishing
and whale-watching tours. Independent travelers should
reserve a spot since cruise ship passengers book on board.
Fishing is available from First Choice Charters (phone
907-314-0681 or 320-224-7646) and Driftwood (phone
320-260-5828). Chilkat Guides
Offers guided rafting trips in the Chilkat River Eagle
Preserve for US$93.90. It also has a number of multiday
tours that combine hiking and rafting on the Alsek and
Tashenshini rivers. 170 Sawmill Road, Haines. Phone
907-766-2491. Toll-free 888-292-7789. http://raftalaska.com.
Chilkat River Adventures
Provides jetboat tours of the Eagle Preserve and upper
Chilkat River mid-May to mid-September. 842 Main St.,
Haines. Phone 907-766-2050. Toll-free 800-478-9827. http://www.jetboatalaska.com.
Chilkoot Lake Tours
Sightsee aboard a pontoon boat on serene Chilkoot Lake.
Eagle sightings guaranteed. For more excitement, try a
Screamin' Eagle airboat. Summer only. 1069 Haines Highway,
Haines. Phone 907-766-2891. Toll-free 800-354-6009. http://www.alaskaeagletours.com.
Golf
Valley of the Eagles
This nine-hole course lies on wetlands that are periodically
covered by high tides in winter. Summer daylight playing 3
am-10 pm. Greens fees: US$20 per nine-hole round, US$90 for
five-round pass, US$175 for 10-round pass. Pull-cart rental
US$5 per day. Mile 1.5 Haines Highway (near town), Haines.
Phone 907-766-2401. http://hainesgolf.com.
Hiking & Walking
All Haines trails are free, with no set hours of operation.
For more information, contact the Haines Parks office (phone
907-766-2292) or the Southeast Alaska trails system (phone
907-364-2427; http://www.seatrails.org). Pick up a "Haines
is for Hikers" brochure at the visitor center on Second
Street. Chilkat State Park
This park provides access to three trails: Battery Point,
Seduction Point and Mount Riley.
Battery Point Trail, 2 mi/3 km one way, provides an easy
hike with access from any of three marked trailheads. Follow
the Beach Road around Portage Cove.
Seduction Point, 7 mi/11 km one way, is another easy trail
that runs along forests and beaches on the Chilkat
Peninsula. It has a 50-ft/15.5-m gain in elevation. The
trailhead lies 7 mi/11 km south of Haines on Mud Bay Road
and is marked.
Mount Riley trail is moderately difficult. It runs 4 mi/6 km
one way with a 1,760-ft/546-m gain in elevation. Mud Bay
Road (7 mi/11 km south of town), Haines.
Mount Ripinsky Trail
This trail runs roughly 4-5 mi/6-8 km one way and gains
4,700 ft/1,457 m in elevation. It is Haines' most difficult
trail (depending on how far you go). The trailhead is a
little more than 1 mi/2 km from downtown. (Take Second
Avenue to Young Road. The trailhead is accessed via Seven
Mile Saddle.)
In-Line Skating
Haines Skate Park
The Hut at Oslund Park offers skateboarders and in-line
skaters ramps, pipes, ledges and trails. The covered,
lighted facility closes at curfew. Mile 1 Haines Highway,
Haines.
Skiing
Haines is a prime location for winter heli-skiing, snowcat
operations, ice climbing, cross-country skiing and
snow-machining. Several outfitters offer tours and multiday
packages, including Alaska Heli-Skiing (http://www.alaskaheliskiing.com),
Alaska Nature Tours (http://www.alaskanaturetours.net),
Rainbow Glacier Adventures (http://www.joeordonez.com) and
Southeast Alaska Backcountry Adventures (http://www.skiseaba.com).
More information is available at http://haines.ak.us.
Swimming
Haines Borough Swimming Pool
The heated, indoor pool is open year-round. Hours vary. 112
Third Ave., Haines. Phone 907-766-2666.
Nightlife
Haines doesn't have much of a nightlife, particularly by
Alaskan standards. A good place to unwind is the Pioneer
Bar, which occassionally has live entertainment on weekends
(phone 907-766-3443). Another good bar is the saloon at Fort
Seward Lodge, a popular place on the weekends with its
red-velvet swing and its ceiling plastered with money (phone
907-766-2009). You can also relax with a drink in the
Officers' Club Lounge at Hotel Halsingland. Phone
907-766-2000.
Performing Arts
Haines has an active arts council that sponsors many
community events during the year. Occasional regional and
national touring groups perform in the community at the
Chilkat Center for the Arts at Ford Seward. Dance parties at
Fort Seward Lodge take place Saturday night throughout the
year. For more information, visit http://hainesak.com/arts.
Shopping
Look for high-quality (and unusual) works of art of all
kinds in Haines. The work of the town's artist colony is for
sale at a variety of stores downtown.
Bookstores
Babbling Book
Good selection of books about Alaska as well as cards,
calendars and gifts. 223 Main St., Haines. Phone
907-766-3356.
Galleries
Catotti and Goldberg Art Studio
Watercolor, oil and pastel paintings created by Rob Goldberg
and Donna Catotti are for sale. Mile 6.5 Mud Bay Road,
Haines. Phone 907-766-2707. http://www.artstudioalaska.com.
Sea Wolf Gallery
Operated by local artist Tresham Gregg along with a second
shop, Whale Rider Gallery, at 16 Portage St. (phone
907-766-2540). Both shops carry wood carvings, art prints,
jewelry and paintings inspired by Alaska Native culture. On
the parade grounds at Fort Seward, Haines. Phone
907-766-2558. http://www.tresham.com.
Uniquely Alaskan Arts
Native carvings, jewelry and prints. 201 Willard St.,
Haines. Phone 907-766-3525.
Wild Iris
This art shop and garden is located in the home of Fred and
Madeleine Shields. Fred creates jewelry from gold, silver,
stones and beads. Madeleine is a painter and printmaker.
Clothing, cards and Alaska Native art round out the
inventory. Portage Street (near the cruise dock), Haines.
Phone 907-766-2300.
Specialty Stores
Alaska Rod's
Sells handcrafted items from local artists, including
knives, photography and lip balm made in Haines. Open
year-round. Second and Main, Haines. Phone 907-766-2352.
http://www.alaskarods.com.
Bear's Den Gifts
Features hats and Alaskan carvings. 8 Main St., Haines.
Phone 907-766-2117.
Bell's Store
Alaskan gifts and flowers. It packs and ships locally caught
seafood, too. 18 Second Ave., Haines. Phone 907-766-2950.
Toll-free 800-446-2950.
Chilkat Valley Arts & Treasures
Features prints and crafts made by local artists; 209
Willard St., Haines. Phone 907-766-3230.
Dejon Delights
Good source of fresh and smoked salmon and halibut. 37
Portage St., Haines. Phone 907-766-2505. Toll-free
800-539-3608. http://www.alaska-smoked-salmon.com.
Gold Spot Jewelry
Carries gold nuggets and nugget jewelry as well as a variety
of other souvenirs. 8 Second Ave., Haines. Phone
907-766-2772.
Haines Brewing Co.
This local brewery makes handcrafted beers using organic
base malts and no filtering or pasteurizing. There's a
tasting room on-site, or you can buy a liter or half-gallon
to go. Also offers logo clothing and pint glasses. Open
Monday-Saturday 1-7 pm. 108 White Fang Way (in Dalton City
at the Southeast Alaska Fairgrounds, Mile 0.5 Haines
Highway), Haines. Phone 907-766-3823. http://www.hainesbrewing.com.
Lost Coast Surf Shop
Offers smoked salmon, outdoor apparel and prints. Second and
Main (near the back entrance to the Wild Iris), Haines.
Phone 907-314-0335. http://www.lostcoastsurfshop.com.
Material Girls
This shop carries fabric, needlework and patterns for all
your quilting or yarn needs. 322 Main St., Haines. Phone
907-766-3391.
Sheldon Museum Gift Shop
Locally made gifts, jewelry and lots of books. 11 Main St.,
Haines. Phone 907-766-2368.
The Alaska Side
This family-owned store carries a wide variety of gifts,
souvenirs and collectibles. It will also ship your purchases
for you. 204 Main St., Haines. Phone 907-766-2703.
Itinerary
Local Tours
Several reputable tour companies in Haines offer private and
group tours. The visitors center can provide a complete
list. Alaska Mountain Guides and Climbing School
Based in Haines, this company offers world-wide travel
adventures. The most popular local day trips are kayaking
and hiking (US$85 half-day, US$125 full day). It also offers
glacier trekking as well as multiday and private guided
trips. 56 Mud Bay Road, Haines. Phone 907-766-3366.
Toll-free 800-766-3396. http://www.alaskamountainguides.com.
Alaska Nature Tours
Offers three- and six-hour bus trips to the Chilkat Bald
Eagle Preserve and other areas for birding and wildlife
photography or guided hikes. Half-day tour is US$85 with
lunch and tax. 109 Second Ave., Haines. Phone 907-766-2876.
http://www.alaskanaturetours.net.
Fly Drake
Flightseeing tours of the Glacier Bay area. Phone
907-314-0675. http://www.flydrake.com.
Keet Gooshi Tours
Keet Gooshi Tours offer cultural trips to the Tlingit
village of Klukwan in the heart of the eagle preserve. 32
Helms Loop Road, Haines. Phone 907-766-2168. http://www.keetgooshi.com.
Mountain Flying Service
One of several flightseeing companies that offers tours over
Glacier Bay National Park. Prices start at US$159 per person
for a one-hour flight, including transportation to the
airport. Phone 907-766-3007. Toll-free 800-954-8747. http://www.flyglacierbay.com.
Rainbow Glacier Adventures
This outfit provides guided nature walks and kayaking trips.
Phone 907-766-3576. http://www.joeordonez.com.
Sockeye Cycle
Sockeye Cycle offers a a variety of daily and extended
guided or self-guided bicycle tours that include Fort
Seward, rides near the river, Valley of the Eagles and the
Golden Circle Tour, among others. 24 Portage St., Haines.
Phone 907-766-2869. Toll-free 877-292-4154. http://www.cyclealaska.com.
Wings of Alaska
Wings of Alaska has scheduled flights to Juneau for US$109
one-way. It also has flights to Skagway, Gustavus and other
northern southeast Alaska communities, and can charter
flightseeing tours over Glacier Bay National Park. Phone
907-766-2030. http://www.wingsofalaska.com.
Dining
Dining Overview
Haines has an excellent variety of restaurants for a city
its size, and many of them are chef-owned. Seafood is the
biggest item on most menus, and the locally caught halibut
is tasty wherever you get it.
Expect to pay within these general guidelines for a dinner
for one, not including drinks, tax or tip: $ = less than
US$10; $$ = US$10-$25; $$$ = US$26-$40; and $$$$ = more than
US$40.
Cuisines
American
33 Mile Roadhouse
The only restaurant between Haines and Haines Junction, this
roadhouse is known for its chili, fresh-baked goods and
hamburgers. Open daily except Tuesday for breakfast, lunch
and dinner. $$. Most major credit cards. Mile 33 Haines
Highway, Haines. Phone 907-767-5510.
http://www.33mileroadhouse.com.
Bamboo Room Restaurant and Pioneer Bar
This local hangout serves up typical U.S. diner fare
year-round. The halibut-and-chips is a favorite dish. The
restaurant is smoke-free. Open daily for breakfast, lunch
and dinner. $$. Most major credit cards. Second Avenue and
Main Street, Haines. Phone 907-766-2800. http://www.bamboopioneer.net.
Hotel Halsingland Commander's Room Restaurant and Officers'
Club Lounge
Gourmet food complements the Victorian decor of historic
Fort Seward. Try the Moroccan lamb shank, fennel-dusted
salmon or roasted Dungeness crab, with a chocolate truffle
torte for dessert. Summer only for breakfast, espresso and
dinner. Reservations recommended. $$$. Most major credit
cards. 13 Fort Seward Drive (in the meticulously restored
commanding and bachelor officers' quarters at Fort Seward),
Haines. Phone 907-766-2000. Toll-free 800-542-6263. http://www.hotelhalsingland.com/restaurant.html.
Mexican
Mosey's Cantina
A favorite Haines restaurant, Mosey's serves up authentic
Mexican cooking. Try the house-made red and green chili
specialties, chile verde, carne asada tampiqueno, tacos de
pescado—it's all good. Front porch seating is also
available. Open March-October Wednesday-Saturday for lunch
and dinner. Soapsuds Alley (one block uphill from the cruise
ship dock), Haines. Phone 907-766-2320. http://www.moseyscantina.com.
Breakfast & Brunch
Chilkat Restaurant and Bakery
Full espresso bar, doughnuts and pastries for breakfast. For
lunch, try the hamburgers on home-style buns with
sweet-potato fries, halibut sandwiches, house-made soups and
pies as well as Thai cuisine. $. Most major credit cards.
Fifth and Dalton streets, Haines. Phone 907-766-3653.
Cafes & Tearooms
Mountain Market and Cafe
Offers beer, wine and spirits along with natural foods,
organic produce, sandwiches, tortilla wraps, soups, freshly
baked goods and an espresso bar with freshly ground coffee.
Open daily for breakfast, lunch and early dinner. $$. Most
major credit cards. 151 Third Ave., Haines. Phone
907-766-3340.
Seafood
Fireweed Restaurant
Serves seafood, pasta, organic cuisine, salads, freshly
baked breads and pizzas. Summer only. $$. Most major credit
cards. Building 37, Blacksmith Road (in Fort Seward),
Haines. Phone 907-766-3838.
Harbor Bar and Lighthouse Restaurant
Bordering the small-boat harbor, this restaurant features a
bar that dates to 1886 and a great view. Specialties include
seafood, hamburgers, espresso and freshly made pies. Open
year-round. $$. Most major credit cards. 101 Front St.,
Haines. Phone 907-766-2444.
Steak Houses
Fort Seward Lodge and Restaurant
Specializes in steak, prime rib and seafood, including fresh
crab mid-June to mid-August. Open year-round except November
to mid-January. Reservations recommended. $$. Most major
credit cards. 39 Bay Road, Mile 0 Haines Highway (in a
historic building in Fort Seward), Haines. Phone
907-766-2009. Toll-free 877-617-3418.
Security
Personal Safety
Crime isn't a significant problem in Haines, but use common
sense. Be aware of your surroundings.
Health
Mosquitoes and other insects can be a nuisance when you're
in the woods, or rafting or fishing on streams. Be sure to
carry a good insect repellent on hikes (preferably one
containing deet). Don't drink untreated water from lakes or
streams. No matter how pristine the area seems, people and
animals may have fouled the waters.
Always be aware of the possibility of encountering a bear.
If you do, don't approach it, and try to avoid quick actions
that might alarm it. Inquire locally for details on recent
bear activity and more advice on how to behave around the
animals.
The SEARHC Haines Medical Clinic provides 24-hour service.
131 First Ave. S. Phone 907-766-6300. http://www.searhc.org.
Disabled Advisory
Although streets are wide, Haines is hilly. The local senior
center van is accessible and available if local seniors
haven't scheduled it. Call ahead Monday-Thursday 8 am-3 pm.
First Avenue next to Tlingit Park. Phone 907-766-2383.
Dos & Don'ts
Don't try to haggle prices in local stores. Though prices
are often high in Alaska, haggling is insulting.
Do be patient at eagle-viewing areas. The eagles may be slow
to show themselves or might not be seen at all.
Do use turnouts to view eagles, stay off the flats where the
eagles feed and give them adequate space.
Do not clean fish in a camping area. Use a stream that will
carry debris away and not lure bears into your camp.
Do recognize that the Alaska Native Chilkat and Chilkoot
people both inhabited the Haines area. Chilkat River and
Chilkoot Lake and Chilkoot River are named for these Tlingit
people.
Hotels
Hotel Overview
Fort Seward offers several venues, including a hotel, lodge
and bed-and-breakfasts. Other accommodations are scattered
around town. Haines is busiest in summer, during heli-skiing
season January-April and for community events. Reservations
are recommended.
Facts
Geostats
Passport/Visa Requirements: All U.S. citizens must have a
passport when traveling by air to or from Bermuda, Canada,
the Caribbean, Central and South America and Mexico.
Citizens of Canada, Mexico and the British Overseas
Territory of Bermuda also must have a passport or other
designated secure document to enter the U.S.
Passports are required for land crossings at the Canadian
and Mexican borders with the U.S. and for cruise passengers
returning to the U.S. from Mexico, the Caribbean, Canada or
Bermuda. Reconfirm travel-document requirements with your
carrier prior to departure.
Population: 2,200.
Time Zone: 9 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (-9 GMT).
Daylight Saving Time is observed from the second Sunday in
March to the first Sunday in November.
Voltage Requirements: 110 volts.
Telephone Codes: 907,
Money
Currency Exchange
First National Bank at 23 Main St. has an ATM, as do
Howser's IGA Grocery, the Fogcutter and the Quick Stop.
Taxes
The local sales tax is 5.5%. The hotel tax is 4%.
Tipping
Tip 15% in restaurants, unless good service warrants more.
Weather
The maritime climate in Haines features cool summers and
mild winters. Average summer temperatures range from 45-67
F/7-19 C and winter temperatures average 18 to 37 F/-8 to 3
C. Haines gets less rain than most southeast Alaska
communities, with an average annual rainfall of 52 in/132 cm
and 133 in/338 cm of snow in winter. Most people visit in
summer and in November, but the winter also offers
heli-skiing and snowmachine adventures.
What to Wear
Layering is the key to comfort in southeast Alaska. Start
with a short- or long-sleeve shirt and long pants; add a
fleece vest, sweater, hooded sweatshirt or light jacket; and
finish with comfortable, waterproof boots or shoes and rain
gear for misty, drizzly days. You won't need heavy down
coats in summer, but you should take shorts just in case the
sun shines. Attire is casual.
Communication
Telephone
There are public telephones at the ferry terminal, small
boat harbor, visitor center on Second Avenue and along Main
Street between Second and Third avenues and elsewhere around
town, including at the cruise-ship dock.
ACS and AT&T cell phones work in town, but most people lose
service at about Mile 7 Haines Highway.
Internet Access
Internet access is available at the Haines Borough Public
Library on Third Avenue (phone 907-766-2545), and the
occasional Internet cafe pops up from time to time. The
Rusty Compass Coffee House at 116 Main St. offers free
Wi-Fi, and there are free Wi-Fi hotspots around town. Phone
907-766-6550. http://www.aptalaska.net.
Mail & Package Services
The local post office is open Monday-Friday 8 am-5 pm,
Saturday 1-3 pm. 55 Haines Highway. Phone 907-766-2930.
There is also a stamp machine at the visitors center.
Newspapers & Magazines
Copies of the Juneau Empire are available in Haines, but
most locals get their news from the weekly Chilkat Valley
News. http://www.chilkatvalleynews.com.
Transportation
You can get just about everywhere on foot in Haines,
although it's a bit of a hike to the airport, ferry
terminal, and Bald Eagle Preserve. Local taxi service is
available from Haines Taxi and Tours for a quick lift to the
center of town or a personal tour. Service is informal, and
rates are negotiable. Expect to pay about US$10-$20 for a
town tour, and US$30-$35 for eagle-viewing trips and tours
of the local lakes by van.
Air
Haines Airport (HNS) is 4 mi/7 km northwest of town. Daily
scheduled flights to and from Skagway, Juneau and other
communities are available. Charter-flight services also use
the Haines Airport.
Car
There are several rental car companies in town: Captain's
Choice (phone 907-766-3111), Eagle's Nest (phone
907-766-2891), Hotel Halsingland (phone 907-766-2000), Lynn
View Lodge (phone 907-766-3713) and Beach Road House (phone
907-766-3060). Rates range US$49-$69 per day.
Ferry
Alaska Fjordlines
Provides daily express ferry service from Haines and Skagway
to Juneau in the summer, leaving Haines at 8:45 am and
returning at 7:30 pm. US$155 round-trip, plus bus transfer
to town and snacks. Phone 907-766-3395. Toll-free
800-320-0146. http://www.alaskafjordlines.com.
Alaska Marine Highway System
Alaska's Marine Highway ferries carry passengers and
vehicles throughout southeast Alaska. Mile 4.5 Lutak Road (5
mi/8 km north of town), Haines. Phone 907-766-2111 (Haines
terminal). Toll-free 800-642-0066 (reservation line).
http://www.ferryalaska.com.
Haines-Skagway Fast Ferry
Provides 45-minute trips between Haines and Skagway in
summer. US$35 one way, US$68 round-trip. 142 Beach Road,
Haines. Phone 907-766-2100. Toll-free 888-766-2103.
http://www.hainesskagwayfastferry.com.
Other
Two-wheel transportation is also available. Rent a bicycle
from Sockeye Cycle for US$14 for two hours minimum, US$35 a
day. Phone 907-766-2869. http://www.cyclealaska.com.
For More Information
Additional Reading
If You Lived Here, I'd Know Your Name by Heather Lende
(Algonquin Books). This comic and poignant account of the
lives and deaths of some of the citizens of Haines is by a
local author.
Haines: The First Century by Elisabeth S. Hakkinen (E.S.
Hakkinen). Available from the Sheldon Museum and Cultural
Center.
Charles H. Anway by Robert E. Henderson (R.E. Henderson).
Pioneer, miner and horticulturist, Anway was the Johnny
Appleseed of Alaska and the father of the Haines Strawberry
Festival, which became the Southeast Alaska State Fair.
Available from the Sheldon Museum and Cultural Center.
Convention & Visitors Bureau
Haines Visitor Center
Centrally located near Second Avenue and Willard Street, the
Haines Visitor Center is a short distance from the small
boat harbor on Portage Cove. Monday-Friday 8 am-5 pm,
Saturday and Sunday 8 am-noon. 122 Second Ave. S., Haines.
Phone 907-766-2234. Toll-free 800-458-3579.
Events
Calendar
Haines is host of the Great Alaska Craftbeer & Homebrew
Festival at the end of May, when you can taste the best of
the region's microbrews
(http://seakfair.org/beerfestival.php). You can also fish
for salmon at the end of May at the Memorial Day King Salmon
Derby.
International visitors go to Haines for the Kluane-Chilkat
Bike Relay, a 160-mi/258-km bike ride along the Haines
Highway from Haines Junction in Canada to Haines, held the
third weekend in June. Phone 867-633-2579.
http://www.kcibr.org.
The annual Summer Solstice Celebration features food, live
music and beer until midnight. The Fourth of July is a
popular celebration in all southeast Alaska communities;
Haines celebrates with the grueling Mount Ripinski footrace,
a parade and fireworks. http://www.haineschamber.org.
One of the biggest parties in the area is the southeast
Alaska State Fair and Bald Eagle Music Festival. For five
days in late July, fairgoers are treated to food, rides,
livestock and logging shows, live music and daily
entertainment. Phone 907-766-2476. http://www.seakfair.org.
In early November, Haines celebrates its most famous
residents when the Alaska Bald Eagle Festival welcomes the
return of the majestic birds to the Chilkat Bald Eagle
Preserve for the winter. Activities include educational
seminars, tours and family events.
http://www.baldeaglefestival.org.
In January, Haines hosts the Alcan 200 Road Rally, a
snow-machine race. http://www.alcan200.org.
For more information on events in Haines, contact the Haines
Convention and Visitors Bureau. Phone 907-766-2234.
Toll-free 800-458-3579. http://haines.ak.us.
Juneau, Alaska
Overview
Introduction
Juneau, Alaska, enjoys a majestic setting in a narrow fjord
with Mount Juneau and Mount Roberts towering above it. To
the east is the vast expanse of glacial ice known as the
Juneau Icefield, and to the west are the wilderness islands
of the Inside Passage.
Because of the natural beauty that surrounds the city—as
well as its gold-rush era buildings and many shops—this
state capital is a popular tourist destination. In fact,
Juneau is visited by more cruise ships than any other port
in Alaska.
Must See or Do
Sights—Mendenhall Glacier, Nugget Falls and the visitors
center; the view of Juneau from the top of Mount Roberts
Tramway or from Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure
overlook; a flight over the Juneau Icefield; a floatplane
excursion past glaciers; bears at Pack Creek Brown Bear
Preserve on Admiralty Island; whale-watching; seeing the
glacier calve at Tracy Arm Fjord; a zipline ride through the
rain forest; logger competitions during Gold Rush Days the
last weekend in June.
Museums—Relics from gold-rush days at the Juneau-Douglas
City Museum; Alaska native culture, art and state history at
the Alaska State Museum; maps of the mine tunnels and
gold-mining equipment at the Last Chance Mining Museum.
Memorable Meals—An authentic salmon feast at Gold Creek
Salmon Bake or the Taku Glacier Lodge; beer-battered halibut
at the Thane Ore House; marionberry-glazed duck at the
historic Gold Room in the Baranof Hotel; sweet-potato crab
cakes at Twisted Fish Co. Alaskan Grill; pizza at Pizzeria
Roma; breakfast at the Sandpiper Cafe; steamer clams or the
halibut taco at the Flight Deck; dinner at Zephyr.
Late Night—Blues and jazz at the Alaskan Hotel & Bar; live
music with views of the water and floatplanes at Hangar on
the Wharf; the Island Pub in Douglas.
Walks—Exploring Mendenhall Glacier trails; following the
miners' path up Perseverance Trail; exploring the Douglas
Treadwell Mine ruins near Sandy Beach; hiking along the
alpine trails at the top of the Mount Roberts Tramway;
exploring historic downtown Juneau from the docks to South
Franklin Street and up the hill past St. Nicholas Russian
Orthodox church.
Especially for Kids—Macaulay Salmon Hatchery; A-J Mine and
Gastineau Mill; Sandy Beach and Savikko Park on Douglas
Island; the Rock Dump; the Auke Recreation Area; a
helicopter flight; dogsledding on a glacier; seeing seals in
Tracy Arm Fjord; exploring the mining ruins at the Last
Chance Mining Museum; playing with artifacts at the Alaska
State Museum; hiking along Mendenhall Lake to Nugget Falls
waterfall at the Mendenhall Glacier.
Geography
Downtown Juneau hugs Gastineau Channel, where cruise ships
dock. Juneau also includes Douglas, across the channel on
Douglas Island; Thane; the Lemon Creek area; Mendenhall
Valley; Mendenhall Glacier; Auke Bay; and what locals call
"out the road."
The downtown historic district, encompassing a few blocks,
is the lively center of the city. Egan Drive, also known as
Thane Road and Glacier Highway, runs along the water, and
Franklin, Seward and Main streets comprise the downtown
shopping districts with restaurants, bars and hotels.
City and state buildings, museums and churches are within
walking distance from the docks. South Franklin, Willoughby
and Main streets, originally built along the shoreline, are
flat, but the sidewalks by some streets continue as
staircases, testimony to why Juneau is nicknamed the "Little
San Francisco of the North."
History
In 1880, Chief Cowee from the Auk Tribe led pioneers Joe
Juneau and Richard Harris to a gold deposit, which started
the famed Alaska gold rush. Hard-rock mining at the
Alaska-Juneau mine in Juneau and the Treadwell mine in
Douglas quickly replaced placer mining—gold panning—and
became the most important industry in Juneau. (These two
world-class mines, largest of their kind at the time,
operated until a cave-in and flood at the Treadwell in 1917
and a worker shortage during World War II at the
Alaska-Juneau. Juneau's streets along Egan Drive and parts
of South Franklin are built with gold tailings, the leftover
dirt from mining.)
In 1906, Juneau was named the capital of Alaska, still a
U.S. territory. It officially became the state capital on 3
January 1959, when Alaska achieved statehood. Southeast
Alaska grew and prospered with its fishing, mining and
logging industries.
The Tlingit culture retains a strong influence on the
economy and arts, and some natives continue to practice a
traditional way of life in outlying villages. As a tourist
mecca, Juneau is one of the most-visited cities in Alaska,
especially during the summer months.
Port Information
Location
Cruise ships dock at one of six locations, labeled A-F: A
for the AJ Dock, B for the Franklin Dock, C for the
Intermediate Vessel Float, D for the Cruise Ship Terminal, E
for the Alaska Steamship Dock at Marine Park and F for the
Seadrome Dock for smaller vessels. The docks line the
waterfront from Egan Drive to the southeast end of town on
South Franklin Street.
If more than four large ships are in port—as is often the
case in midsummer—some ships anchor in the channel and
tender passengers in smaller craft to the terminals. As many
as seven ships have been in port at one time, depositing
throngs of visitors on the city. Downtown Juneau is within
easy walking distance, but you'll need transportation (taxi,
tour coach or local bus) to reach outlying attractions.
Visitor-information and tour-company kiosks are located at
Marine Park and the Cruise Ship Terminal. In addition, the
main visitors center is in Centennial Hall on Egan Drive.
Shore Excursions
Consider signing up for the excursions offered by your ship.
They may not be the least expensive way to see the area, but
you won't have to waste your limited time making
arrangements yourself—and you won't have to worry about
missing the ship. Shore excursions—and their prices—vary
from cruise line to cruise line. Check with your ship's
shore-excursion staff or your travel agent for additional
information.
So many different tours are offered in Juneau; the hard part
is deciding among them. The more adventurous should consider
helicopter or floatplane tours of glaciers and fjords,
glacier-trekking or dogsledding on a glacier. Those who
prefer the water to the air might consider whale-watching,
fishing for salmon or halibut, fly-fishing for Dolly Varden
or cutthroat trout, or sea kayaking near seals, sea lions
and whales. You can also enjoy a placid float down the
Mendenhall River or a Mendenhall Lake canoe adventure.
Other options include exploring the historic sites of
downtown Juneau, donning hard hats while touring a historic
gold mine, panning for gold or taking a bike-and-brew tour
of the Auke Bay area. You can tour the glacier by bus and
then feast on salmon, or marvel at spawning Alaska salmon at
a local hatchery. Hikes in the rain forest and rain-forest
gardens are a great way to explore, and two ziplines through
the rain forest provide additional adventure. Because most
ships are in port eight hours or more, you can sometimes
choose more than one tour.
If you have a bit more time, explore nearby Tracy Arm Fjord
or Glacier Bay, home to 16 tidewater glaciers. Around
Juneau, many outstanding wilderness lodges beckon
sportfishing and whale-watching enthusiasts and ecotourists.
Spend a day watching brown bears at Pack Creek on Admiralty
Island. Fly to Yakutat for world-class fly-fishing and
steelhead fishing or to surf Alaska's lost coast. Take a
memorable fast-ferry day trip up Lynn Canal to Haines or
historic Skagway. Ferries also go to Sitka, Petersburg,
Wrangell, Hoonah and other southeast communities, but you'll
need two to three days.
Potpourri
Land area around Juneau is increasing at a rate more than 10
times faster than rising global sea levels. With the
decreasing weight of melting glaciers, the land is bouncing
back. One nearby island is now 18 ft/6 m higher than it was
when Capt. Vancouver sailed by it more than 200 years ago.
Located smack in the middle of a rain forest, Juneau
receives an average of 54 in/137 cm of precipitation a year,
16 in/41 cm more than famously wet Seattle. Autumn is the
wettest season.
You can't judge a bear by its color. Black bears actually
come in a range of colors, including a rare blue-gray
variation called the glacier bear. Many black bears are
brown—not to be confused with brown bears, which are also
brown. So how do you tell the difference? Size matters.
Black bears tend to be the size of a very large dog,
weighing up to 400 lbs/180 kg. Brown bears are usually much
larger, closer to pony size, and can weigh 500-1,000
lbs/230-450 kg.
Talking or singing as you walk through the woods is the best
way to let bears know you're coming.
Prior to the discovery of gold in Juneau in 1880, the
largest Alaska Native settlement in the area was Auk Village
near Auke Bay. Juneau, called Dzantik'i Heeni by the
Tlingits (meaning where the flatfish gather) was a fish camp
and summer home. People didn't live there year-round because
of the horrendous frigid Taku winds barreling down the
mountain passes from the Juneau Icefield. Auke Recreation
Area, about 14 mi/22 km north of town, is where the Tlingit
Auk people lived.
See & Do
Sightseeing
One of the first things you'll notice in Juneau is the
contrast between the gold-rush era buildings and modern
high-rises—and, on the street, between the rubber-booted
fisherfolk and the suit-and-tie government employees. The
Historic District is crammed with shops, galleries, bars,
hotels and restaurants. You'll even find an old five-and-ten
store. City and state buildings, churches and museums are a
few blocks away, so most of the points of interest are
within walking distance.
Before you make your way through the streets or take one of
the tours, you may want to get the big picture by taking the
Mount Roberts Tramway, which is located next to the
cruise-ship docks.
Historic downtown can be easily explored on foot with the
help of a walking-tour map (they're available at the
visitor-information kiosks near the cruise-ship docks or the
Centennial Hall Visitors Center at the corner of Egan and
Willoughby).
From the docks, head north along South Franklin Street, the
city's former red-light district, to the Seawalk and Marine
Park. Monuments located along the wharf include a community
sundial near the ship terminal and a sculpture of Patsy Ann,
a deaf dog that met steamships in days past. There are also
memorials to the USS Juneau, to hard-rock or underground
miners and to area fisherfolk. Downtown murals depict the
Tlingit legend of creation and turn-of-the-century steamship
passengers.
Along the waterfront, narrow lanes wind past art galleries,
gift shops, restaurants and Victorian homes. This flat area
is wheelchair-accessible and pleasant for strolls. The paths
begin to climb steeply until they become natural staircases.
Both the hills and the architecture were the inspiration for
Juneau's nickname, "Little San Francisco of the North." The
wooden buildings have colorful facades, and streets are
decorated in summer with banners, baskets of flowers, and
flags from all the states.
Juneau's best features are the mountains, the ice and the
water that define this community. Think about a helicopter
ride over the Juneau Icefield—it can include glacier
landings or a dogsledding experience. You can go
whale-watching for humpbacks and orcas along Stephens
Passage, take a city bus or tour to Mendenhall Glacier, or
visit a salmon hatchery. In late summer, when salmon swim
upstream to spawn, black bears are often seen fishing in the
stream near the Mendenhall Glacier around sunrise and
twilight.
Historic Sites
The Windfall Fisherman, a life-size bronze bear sculpture by
Skip Wallen, is situated near the state Capitol at Third and
Main streets off the sidewalk in a small park—children enjoy
climbing on it. Historic photos and colorful tales of the
past line the seawalk.
A walk through Juneau's downtown historic district along
South Franklin and Front streets is a walk through history.
The area was once home to more than 30 bars and several
bordellos, but they have been transformed into gift shops
and restaurants. Emporium Mall, formerly the 1901 Alaska
Steam Laundry and built in the late-Victorian style,
features hallways decorated with historical photos of the
city's colorful past. This was the center of Juneau's
business district.
Across the street, the Alaskan Hotel & Bar is the city's
oldest continuously operating hotel. Built in 1913, it was
originally a miner's hotel and bordello—the ambience remains
to this day. The restored Senate Building, a minimall, was
the 1883 site of the Juneau Brewery. McDonald's (Lewis
Building, 1896) is on one of the first claimed lots in
Juneau.
Alaska State Capitol
Completed in 1931, the Capitol housed the governor, the
legislature and other territorial and federal offices until
Alaska became a state in 1959. The building continues to
serve as Alaska's seat of government. The marble and
limestone in the portico columns and the lobby came from
Prince of Wales Island in southeast Alaska. Free guided
tours are available mid-May through mid-September. Fourth
and Main streets, Juneau.
http://w3.legis.state.ak.us/misc/capitol.php.
Chapel by the Lake
On a clear day, worshippers in the pews of this 1950s log
chapel can stare past the minister to Mount McGinnis, the
Mendenhall Glacier and Auke Lake. It's a miracle anyone ever
listens to the sermon in this picturesque chapel, which is
still used for weddings and Sunday services. At other times,
it is open for visitors. Donations accepted. University of
Alaska Southeast is adjacent to the chapel. 11024 Auke Lake
Way (12 mi/20 km from Juneau), Auke Bay. Phone 907-789-7592.
http://www.chapelbythelake.org.
Shrine of St. Therese
This beach-stone church dedicated to St. Therese of Lisieux,
the patron saint of Alaska, is tucked on an island
accessible by a 400-ft/125-m gravel causeway on Lynn Canal,
23 mi/37 km north of Juneau. It's a favorite spot for
picnickers, fishermen and scuba divers, as well as people
seeking spiritual renewal. Whales, seals, sea lions and
eagles are often seen from the shrine, set against the
majestic backdrop of the Chilkat Mountains. The log lodge
and several cabins are used for retreats and weddings, as
well as government and business workshops. The shrine also
features outdoor Stations of the Cross, a columbarium and a
labyrinth. Open year-round. Mass is held Sunday at 1:30 pm
during the summer. Donations accepted. 5933 Lund St. (Mile
Marker 23), Juneau. Phone 907-780-6112.
http://www.shrineofsainttherese.org.
St. Nicholas Orthodox Church
St. Nicholas church was built in Siberia in 1894,
disassembled, shipped to Juneau and then reassembled. This
octagonal structure with an onion dome is said to be the
oldest continuously functioning Russian Orthodox church in
Alaska. The church is filled with Russian icons and
religious relics. On Sunday, the liturgy is sung in three
languages: English, Slavonic and Tlingit. The church and
gift shop are open May-September Monday-Friday 9 am-5 pm,
Saturday 11 am-3 pm and Sunday 1-5 pm, October-April by
appointment. US$2 donation. 326 Fifth St., Juneau. Phone
907-586-1023. http://www.stnicholasjuneau.org.
The Governor's Mansion
The mansion is a 14,400-sq-ft/1,340-sq-m, three-story,
Federal-period Greek Revival-style house. It was built in
1912 for US$40,000, and is the official residence of the
Governor of Alaska. It features a 1939 totem pole near the
front entrance that tells the story of human and the
mosquito's origins and why there are tides. Tours are
available with advance reservations. 716 Calhoun Ave. (two
blocks uphill from the city museum), Juneau. Phone
907-465-3500.
The State Office Building
Irreverently called the S.O.B. by residents, this government
building has an eighth-floor viewing deck that provides a
perfect view of Juneau's lovely waterfront. The enormous
atrium contains a small garden with a beautifully carved
totem pole and a huge stuffed brown bear, but it's the 1928
Kimball pipe organ that's of most interest. It was purchased
by pioneer W.D. Gross, founder of the motion-picture
industry in Alaska, and used in his Coliseum Theatre until
1939. Free Friday noon concerts are staged there. 709 W.
Ninth St., Juneau.
http://www.pstos.org/instruments/ak/juneau/state-bldg.htm.
Totem poles
Tlingit-carved totem poles link the capital city with its
Alaska Native roots. The Wooshkeetaan totem pole outside
Centennial Hall, at the corner of Willoughby Avenue and Egan
Drive, describes how people came via the Taku River to
Juneau. The Friendship totem pole is in the Juneau
Courthouse lobby on Fourth Street between Main and Seward
streets. Two poles, Harnessing the Atom and the Four Story
totem, are outside the city museum on Fourth and Main.
Across the street on the eighth floor of the State Office
Building (Fourth and Calhoun streets) is the Waasgo or Old
Witch totem. The Governor's totem, outside the Governor's
House, tells the creation story of populating the earth with
land animals, sea mammals and mosquitoes. In the Juneau
Douglas High School atrium is a Haida pole carved in Sukkwan
in 1880.
Museums
Alaska State Museum
The best museum in the city—if not the state—offers a wealth
of Alaskan history within walking distance from the cruise
ships. You can sit in a replica of a Tlingit clan house and
examine Alaska Native clothing and a traditional walrus-skin
boat. The museum also features exhibits about gold and
copper mining, cultural artifacts from the Eskimo, Aleut,
Tlingit, Haida and Athabascan Indians and the Russian
period. Don't miss the exhibit on Alaska's major artists. An
eagle's nest inhabited by stuffed birds sits atop a
two-story nesting tree—a circular staircase allows you to
see it from all angles. A children's room includes a replica
of Vancouver's ship Discovery along with dress-up clothes
and touchable furs. Two museum stores sell quality items. A
second location is at 124 Seward St. This museum is
definitely a must-see. Mid-May to mid-September daily 8:30
am-5:30 pm; mid-September to mid-May Tuesday-Saturday 10
am-4 pm. US$5, free to those younger than 18. 395 Whittier
St., Juneau. Phone 907-465-2901.
http://www.museums.state.ak.us.
Juneau-Douglas City Museum
This museum is dedicated to the history of Juneau and has
more than 10,000 artifacts. You can watch the video Juneau,
A City Built On Gold, study the topographic map, see a
700-year-old woven fish trap found in a local river or check
out interpretive displays about gold mining and Juneau
history. Originally built by public contributions as the
Juneau Public Library in 1950, the structure was a memorial
to veterans of World War I and World War II and was the
official site of the statehood ceremony in 1959.
May-September Monday-Friday 9 am-5 pm, Saturday and Sunday
10 am-5 pm; October-April Tuesday-Saturday noon-4 pm. US$4,
free admission in winter. One-hour historic downtown walking
tours Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at 1:30 pm mid-May
through mid-September, US$10 for adults, US$7 for those 18
and younger. Fourth and Main streets, Juneau. Phone
907-586-3572. http://www.juneau.org/parksrec/museum.
Last Chance Mining Museum
Located at the end of Basin Road and a short stroll across
Gold Creek, this museum showcases mining memorabilia from
Juneau's gold-rush days. A must for map-lovers, the museum
has 3-D and aerial maps, a multilayered glass map of the ore
bodies, and the world's largest air compressor. You can walk
there from downtown in about 45 minutes. Open mid-May to
late September daily 9:30 am-12:30 pm and 3-6:30 pm. US$4.
1001 Basin Road, Juneau. Phone 907-586-5338.
Nature
Macaulay Salmon Hatchery
You can feed salmon smolts in May and June and watch the
salmon swim up ladders the rest of the summer. Saltwater
aquariums and a gift shop are inside the Ladd Macaulay
Visitor Center, along with a gigantic brown bear who will
gladly pose for pictures with you (he has no choice—he's
stuffed). Outside, you can snap some pictures with a group
of bronze bears, the Gang of Four, by Juneau sculptor Skip
Wallen. The Gastineau Channel is an excellent place to fish,
and poles can be rented in summer from a shack nearby. The
hatchery is open May-September Monday-Friday 10 am-6 pm;
call for times in winter. US$3.25 adults, US$1.75 children.
Brochures at the visitors center at Centennial Hall have a
coupon for a free admission with one paid admission. 2697
Channel Drive (Gastineau Channel, 3 mi/5 km north of
downtown), Juneau. Phone 907-463-4810. Toll-free
877-463-2486. http://www.dipac.net.
Mendenhall Glacier
The mighty Mendenhall Glacier is the area's most famous
natural landmark and a must-see. The drive-up glacier is a
1-mi-/2-km-wide river of ice emanating from the Juneau
Icefield, which is larger than the U.S. state of Rhode
Island. The river is also 12 mi/19 km long and 300 ft-1,800
ft/95 m-550 m deep. If the sky is overcast when you're
there, consider yourself lucky: The glacier's blue ice is
more spectacular then. But any day is a good day to visit
the glacier. An elevated trail allows visitors to watch
black bears fishing in a nearby salmon stream in summer.
These are wild bears, so keep a safe distance from them.
Any visit to the glacier, which is 13 mi/21 km northwest of
town at the end of Glacier Spur Road, should include a stop
at the visitors center. It has a large map of the entire ice
field, and a telescope provides you with a close-up view of
Mendenhall and the sheep frequenting the steep slopes on
either side. There's also a short video and interactive
exhibits. U.S. Park Service rangers lead nature hikes near
the glacier—there's a photo loop trail that's
handicap-accessible. Black bears frequent the area in July
and August so you may be able to take that
once-in-a-lifetime photo.
To get to Mendenhall, you could take a city bus to within 1
mi/2 km of the visitors center (US$1.50 adults; disabled
visitors and seniors 65 and older ride free; children 5 and
younger ride free with an adult; the bus arrives every 30
minutes) and walk the fairly level path. Several groups
offer tours for about US$15 (check with the dockside
visitors center for information). An Express Shuttle from
the docks is US$5 each way. If you take a tour bus that
sticks to its schedule, you'll only have about 45 minutes at
the glacier before heading back. It's worth staying longer
to maneuver around to the spectacular Nugget Falls
waterfalls on the right of the glacier, getting close enough
to feel the spray coming down. Most flightseeing and
helicopter tours also fly over the glacier.
In addition to the six trails around the Mendenhall Glacier,
there are more than 100 hiking spots in the area. Pick up a
copy of Juneau Trails at a local bookstore. The Centennial
Hall visitors center has a direct line to the U.S. Forest
Service, which has maps and other information. May-September
the visitors center is open daily 8 am-7:30 pm;
October-April Thursday-Sunday 10 am-4 pm. US$3 adults, free
for children younger than 12; admission is free to everyone
in winter. Phone 907-789-0097.
http://www.fs.fed.us/r10/tongass/districts/mendenhall.
Pack Creek Brown Bear Preserve
Seated on Admiralty Island, about 30 mi/48 km south of
Juneau, the Stan Price State Wildlife Sanctuary at Pack
Creek is a good place to view bears in the wild from a
protected platform. The preserve is home to the world's
largest (and most accessible, particularly June-August)
brown-bear population. The Tlingit called the island
Kootznoowoo, which means fortress of the bears.
The best way to get there is by air. Several firms offer
bear-viewing floatplane flights, including Ward Air (phone
907-789-9150; http://www.wardair.com), Tal Air (phone
907-789-6968) and Alaska Seaplane Service (phone
907-789-3331; http://www.flyalaskaseaplanes.com). Bring rain
gear, mosquito repellent, boots or sandals to walk from the
float plane to the shore (there is no dock), a snack
(rangers put these in bear-proof containers). There are no
toilet facilities. Expect to pay US$161-$270 per person
round-trip, depending on whether or not the plane is full
and the size of the airplane. You can also arrange a guided
fly-fishing and/or bear-viewing trip with Alaska Fly-N-Fish
(phone 907-790-2120; http://www.alaskabyair.com). US$600 for
5.5-hour trips, with permits and outfitting. Limited permits
from the U.S. Forest Service are available for US$50 per
person per day early July-late August, US$20 per person per
day June-early July and late August-September. Phone
907-586-8800.
http://wildlife.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=refuge.pack_ck.
Tracy Arm Fjord
A favorite one-day adventure is a boat trip to Tracy Arm
Fjord and the Sawyer glaciers. En route you'll often see
orca and humpback whales, porpoises, sea birds, bears
ambling along the beaches, waterfalls, sheer rock cliffs,
and hundreds of seals atop recently calved icebergs or along
the shores. May-September 8 am-6 pm. US$150 adults, US$95
children. 76 Egan Drive, Juneau. Phone 907-463-2509.
Toll-free 800-228-3875. http://www.adventureboundalaska.com.
Parks & Gardens
Glacier Gardens
With flowers overflowing from the tops of upside-down,
uprooted trees, this 50-acre/20-hectare garden is a magical
mix of natural forest and creative gardening on the site of
a former landslide area. Guided tours in covered, motorized
carts wind through the rain forest past waterfalls and ponds
to the 580-ft-/180-m-level of Thunder Mountain. There, a
walkway and overlook provide views of the Mendenhall Valley,
Gastineau Channel, Chilkat mountains and low-flying eagles
that nest in the gardens. Floral arches and overhead plants
adorn the atrium, a favorite place for weddings and home to
the Garden Gift Shop and Wild Berry Cafe. Open daily
May-September 9 am-6 pm. Admission US$21.95 adults, US$15.95
ages 6-12, free for children younger than 6. 7600 Glacier
Highway (7 mi/11 km from downtown), Juneau. Phone
907-790-3377 in summer; 907-789-5166 in winter.
http://www.glaciergardens.com.
Savikko Park
This public park on Douglas Island encompasses aptly named
Sandy Beach, ball fields, picnic shelters, an ice-skating
arena and the historic ruins of the Treadwell Mine, which
burned down in 1926. Pilings from the old piers, building
ruins and mining equipment still stand along the beach and
forested trail. More than 1,000 men worked at the mine,
which produced 3.3 million ounces of gold from 1882 to 1922.
105 Savikko Road, Douglas. Phone 907-586-5226 (Parks
Department) or 907-586-2201 (Information Center).
http://www.juneau.org/parkrec/facilities/douglas.php.
Wineries, Breweries & Distilleries
Alaska Brewing Co.
Visit the Alaska Brewing Co. to watch fermenting and
bottling, and taste a free sample of Juneau's award-winning
beers, including Smoked Porter and Alaskan Amber. There's
also a museum and gift shop. Open May-September daily 11
am-6 pm, October-April Thursday-Saturday 11 am-5 pm. 5429
Shaune Drive (4 mi/7 km from downtown), Juneau. Phone
907-780-5866. http://www.alaskanbeer.com.
Other Options
Mount Roberts Tramway
Ride in one of the two 60-person trams up 2,000-ft/620-m
Mount Roberts for a spectacular view of downtown, the
Gastineau Channel, Douglas Island, the Chilkat Mountains and
nearby mining ruins from the 3,500-sq-ft/325-sq-m
observation deck and Mountain House (Shaa Hit). Venture
along one of the hiking trails through the rain forest;
visit a live eagle at the Juneau Raptor Center Bald Eagle
Display; shop at Raven Eagle gift store; watch Seeing
Daylight, a short video about the Tlingit people; or eat
lunch or dinner at the Timberline Bar and Grill. There are
also craft demonstrations by Alaska Native artists. The tram
runs every five to 10 minutes. US$27 adults, US$13.50
children ages 6-12. Phone 907-463-3412.
http://www.goldbelttours.com.
Recreation
Opportunities to hike, bike and paddle around Juneau are
abundant. You can strike off on your own with a
walking-trail map from the visitors center or rent a bike or
a kayak and explore the area independently. Juneau offers
more than 80 trails and 90 short walks.
If time is limited, however, consider taking a tour. Juneau
has dozens of firms offering every possible recreational
option—from fishing for salmon to bear-watching by
floatplane to dogsledding on a glacier.
Beaches
Juneau is stretched out along the water, but most of the
beaches are rocky. The aptly named Sandy Beach on Douglas
Island is a rare exception. It was created by the mine
tailings from the historic Treadwell Mine. Kids and dogs
love to splash in the water there. Take the city bus to
Douglas, and then walk a few blocks past the harbor to the
beach.
The beaches at Auke Recreation Area, at Milepost 15.7 on
Glacier Highway, and False Outer Point, on the northern end
of Douglas Island, are more suitable for beach walks and
cookouts. Check the tide table before driving 30 mi/48 km
north to Eagle Beach, where low tides reveal expanses of
sand to match the mountain views, and you can watch eagles
up close.
Bicycling
Many hotels and lodges allow guests to use their bikes, or
they can be rented from a number of different locations.
Cycle Alaska
Cycle Alaska rents bicycles and offers fun tours, including
a Glacier View Bike and Brew tour for US$99 and Eaglecrest
Ski Area to False Outer Point bike ride plus the Mount
Roberts Tramway for US$119. Bike-rental prices are US$35 for
four hours, US$45 for eight hours, US$50 for 24 hours,
US$190 for a week. 5454 Jenkins Drive (in the Lemon Creek
area), Juneau. Phone 907-321-2453. http://www.cycleak.com.
Driftwood Lodge
The lodge will rent bicycles to nonguests. Available mid-May
to mid-September. US$15 for six hours or US$31.50 per day.
435 W. Willoughby, Juneau. Phone 907-586-2280.
http://www.driftwoodalaska.com.
Bird Watching
Southeast Alaska's rain forest is home to more than 300
species of birds, including bald eagles, ravens, jays,
hummingbirds and ptarmigans, plus wintering ducks and geese
that visit the Mendenhall wetlands. May is the migration
month, and June is the month for watching nesting birds. Of
course, the most visible are the bald eagles, which gather
by the hundreds around canneries, fishing boats and marinas
during salmon season.
The Mendenhall Wildlife Refuge and Juneau airport wetlands
are easily accessed birding hot spots as are Eagle Beach,
Amalga Marsh and Point Bridget State Park. Arctic terns
delight visitors at the Mendenhall Glacier April-August.
For a birding list, visit
http://home.gci.net/~juneaubird/index.html. There is also a
list of bird-watching places at the Juneau Ranger District.
Phone 907-586-8800.
http://www.fs.fed.us/r10/tongass/districts/mendenhall/birdwatching.shtml
and
http://www.wildlife.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=birding.main.
Juneau Audubon Society
The Juneau Audubon Society leads bird walks from downtown on
Wednesday at noon. There are bird-watching events at the
glacier. Phone 907-586-8800.
http://www.juneau-audubon-society.org/index.html.
Boating & Sailing
For sailors, Juneau has an active yacht club that holds
races through the summer (http://juneauyachtclub.com), a
youth sailing club that offers lessons
(http://www.juneauyouthsailinginc.org) and a rowing club
(http://juneau-rowing.org).
Alaska Boat and Kayak Center
If you want to go it alone, kayak and canoe rentals, as well
as tours, are available through this company. Expect to pay
US$50 for a single kayak for a full day or US$70 for a
double. Full-day classes are also available for US$150 per
person. Auke Bay Harbor (20 minutes north of downtown
Juneau), Auke Bay. Phone 907-789-6886 or 907-364-2333 for
reservations. http://www.juneaukayak.com.
Alaska Travel Adventures
Alaska Travel Adventures offers a 3.5-hour Mendenhall
Glacier float trip (US$119 adults) or canoe trip (US$149),
as well as sea-kayak trips across Gastineau Channel (US$89
adults), gold panning (US$55), the Gold Creek Salmon Bake
(US$39) and four-hour custom Hummer tours (US$699 for four
adults and one child). The popular Best of Juneau trip
includes whale-watching, the Mendenhall Glacier and the
salmon bake for US$169. 9085 Glacier Highway, Suite 301,
Juneau. Phone 907-789-0052. Toll-free 800-323-5757.
http://www.bestofalaskatravel.com.
Panhandle Powerboats
Rent small powerboats (18-22 ft/6-7 m) in Auke Bay.
US$195-$400, depending on the size of the vessel. 5422
Shaune Drive, Juneau. Phone 907-789-5767.
http://www.panhandlepowerboats.com.
Bowling
Juneau Bowling Center
This 10-lane alley was built in 1959 and has been renovated
to modern standards. Open daily. A game, including shoes, is
US$5.25. 608 W. Willoughby Ave., Juneau. Phone 907-586-2695.
http://www.juneaubowlingcenter.com.
Fishing
Fishing trips are offered by a number of charter boats that
will take you fishing for salmon or halibut. Expect to pay
at least US$145 per person for a half-day outing, with four
to six anglers on board. You can also take a plane trip to
prime fishing waters. Half- and full-day trips run
US$350-$475.
For a list of companies offering air and boat-fishing trips,
contact the visitors center. Phone 907-586-2201.
Bear Creek Outfitters
Trips include a floatplane flight and seven hours of
on-stream time. US$625 per person for two or fewer
fishermen. Half-day trips are also available. Fishermen will
also need a nonresident license, US$20, available from the
guide. Phone 907-789-3914. http://www.juneauflyfishing.com.
Sea Runner Guide Service
Fly-fishing expeditions usually include a floatplane or
helicopter flight plus stream or lake fishing. Half-day
US$395; full day US$630. Phone 907-957-0780.
http://www.sea-runner.com.
Golf
Mendenhall Golf
If you can't live without golf no matter where you are, this
nine-hole, par-3 public course offers specials for visitors
as well as scenic glacier views. Open April-October 8
am-6:30 pm. Greens fees US$12. For US$30, there's a
visitors' special that includes nine holes, a pull cart,
clubs and tees. No credit cards. 2101 Industrial Blvd. (10
mi/16 km from downtown), Juneau. Phone 907-789-1221.
http://home.gci.net/~hakari/mendenhall_golf/golf.html.
Hiking & Walking
Alaska's spectacular scenery beckons almost everyone for an
outdoor walk or a hike up winding trails—and there are a
variety of levels. Juneau is a walker's paradise. If you're
downtown, Perseverance Trail will take you past old mining
ruins to an elevation of 700 ft/217 m in three to four
hours. Take Gold Street to Basin Road and follow the trail
at the end. Granite Creek Trail branches off Perseverance
Trail and reaches as high as 1,200 ft/372 m. For super-fit
hikers, another branch off Perseverance Trail leads steeply
to the top of Mount Juneau (3,576 ft/1,089 m).
Alpine trails at the upper level of Mount Roberts Tramway
provide great overlooks of downtown Juneau. On Douglas
Island, the Dan Moller Trail and the False Outer Point Loop
Trail are near the end of North Douglas Highway.
Mendenhall Glacier offers a variety of trails from the easy
0.3-mi/0.5 km Photo Point Trail, 0.5-mi/0.8-kilometer Trail
of Time and 1.5 mi/3 km Moraine Ecology Trail to the more
challenging East Glacier Loop, Nugget Creek and West Glacier
trails. The Glacier Visitors Center has information. Phone
907-789-0097.
http://www.fs.fed.us/r10/tongass/recreation/trails/traillist.shtml.
In addition to the trails around the Mendenhall Glacier,
there are more than 100 hiking spots in the area, including
Kaxdigoowu Heen Dei Trail at Brotherhood Bridge, the Airport
Dike, Auke Nu by Auke Bay as well as Treadwell Ditch, False
Outer Point, Herbert Glacier, Montana Creek, Peterson Lake,
Mount McGinnis, Windfall Lake and Point Bridget trails. Pick
up a copy of Juneau Trails at a local bookstore.
The Centennial Hall Visitors Center on Egan Drive and
Willoughby Avenue has a direct line to the U.S. Forest
Service, which has maps and other information about hiking
and bears. Phone 907-586-2201. Trail Mix has a good Web site
at http://www.juneautrails.org, and so does the Juneau Guide
at http://www.juneau-guide.com/juneau-alaska-hiking.htm.
To find the best wildlife-viewing areas, visit
http://www.wildlife.alaska.gov.
Ice Skating
Treadwell Arena
This skating rink offers public-skate hours and skate
rental, as well as lessons August-April. The facility
operates as a kids' camp in summer, with no ice. The basic
entry fee is US$4 adults, US$3 children. US$2 skate rental.
Savikko Park (across the channel from Juneau), Douglas.
Phone 907-586-0410.
http://www.juneau.org/parkrec/icerink/index.php.
Scuba & Snorkeling
Cold water makes for great visibility, and there's plenty to
see underwater around Juneau, but diving there is only for
the experienced diver. King crab, tomcod, needlefish,
Dungeness crab, flounder, snails, hermit crabs, sea lions,
porpoises and jellyfish all frequent the area.
Favorite dive sites include an underwater park with an
artificial reef in Auke Cove, a lush wall and ledges at the
end of Ann Coleman Road, coral-encrusted rock at the Shrine
of St. Therese, the well-sheltered Sunshine Cove and several
historic shipwrecks. Scuba Tank
This dive shop offers equipment rentals, scuba training,
dive charters and a variety of other services. 2219 Dunn
St., Juneau. Phone 907-789-5115.
http://www.thescubatank.com.
Skiing
Many local trails, including Mendenhall Lake Campground,
serve as Nordic (cross-country) and skate-skiing areas in
winter. Visit http://jnski.org for up-to-date information.
Alaska Powder Descents
This company offers heliskiing and snowboarding out of
Adlersheim Wilderness Lodge, 33 miles/53 km from Juneau.
Located in Yankee Cove's historic Bessie Creek mining area.
February-April. Half-day is US$450; full day is US$875.
Lodging not included. Mile 33, Glacier Highway, Juneau.
Phone 907-364-2333. http://www.alaskapowder.com.
Eaglecrest Ski Area
Home of Olympic downhill champion Hilary Lindh, this ski
area offers 640 acres/259 hectares of open-tree terrain,
with 34 alpine ski runs, a tubing hill, 6.2 mi/10 km of
Nordic ski trails, night skiing and a terrain park for US$43
all day. The day lodge provides ski rental and repair,
lessons, lockers and a cafeteria. On weekends and holidays,
a bus runs from valley and downtown locations to the ski
area for US$8 round-trip. 3000 Fish Creek Road (12 mi/19 km
from downtown Juneau, on Douglas Island), Douglas. Phone
907-586-5284 or 907-790-2000. http://www.skijuneau.com.
Spas and Health Clubs
Alaska Club
A full-service health club, with weight equipment,
treadmills, aerobics classes, steam rooms, saunas, hot tubs
and racquetball courts. It has a second location in the
Mendenhall Valley at 2841 Riverside Drive (phone
907-789-2181). Open Monday-Friday 4:45 am-10 pm (till 9 pm
in summer), Saturday and Sunday 7:30 am-8 pm. 641 W.
Willoughby Avenue, Suite 210, Juneau. Phone 907-586-5773.
http://www.thealaskaclub.com.
Pavitt's Health and Fitness
This club has a stationary lap pool, sauna, snack bar, lots
of weight equipment, treadmills, bikes and classes. Open
daily 24 hours. US$15 for a day pass. 10004 Glacier Highway,
Juneau. Phone 907-789-5556. http://www.gopavitt.com.
Rock Dump
Everyone's climbing the walls at this indoor climbing gym,
which has 40 top ropes and more than 11,000 sq ft/1,020 sq m
of climbing surfaces, including a bouldering area and a
40-ft/12-m open pitch. Open Monday-Friday 4-10 pm, Saturday
and Sunday 2-10 pm. US$13 per day ages 14 and older, US$10
younger than 14, US$3 for shoe rental. 1310 Eastaugh Way
(south of Juneau off Thane Road), Juneau. Phone
586-789-4982. http://www.rockdump.com.
Swimming
Augustus Brown Swimming Pool
This covered public facility offers two pools, high and low
diving boards, an exercise area and a sauna. US$4.25 adults,
US$2.25 children, US$2 seniors for a one-hour swim. 1619
Glacier Ave., Juneau. Phone 907-586-5325.
http://www.juneau.org/parkrec/pool.
Nightlife
The best way to look for nightlife in Juneau is with your
ears. Just listen for music as you walk up South Franklin
Street, down Front Street and through the Merchant's Wharf.
Usually, there's live music, DJs and karaoke. On a sunny
summer night, don't be surprised if the locals are still
outside playing.
Bars, Taverns & Pubs
Imperial Billiard & Bar
The oldest bar in Juneau, dating from 1891, this is the
place to hang out for a couple of games of billiards, darts
and a few beers. Wednesday is trivia night, and a DJ plays
hip-hop Thursday-Saturday nights. 241 Front St., Juneau.
Phone 907-586-1960.
Marlintini's
This is a popular hangout in the Mendenhall Valley. There
are 13 televisions blasting sports events along with
billiards tables, video tables, boxing and a dance floor.
Thursday is open-mike, Thursday and Friday a DJ plays 10
pm-2 am and Sunday features open pool. 9121 Glacier Highway
(above Donna's Restaurant), Juneau. Phone 907-789-0799.
Red Dog Saloon
With its sawdust floor and swinging doors, the Red Dog does
pander to tourists. But it's a fun place with honky-tonk
music, locally brewed beer and fascinating Alaska
memorabilia cluttering the walls and ceiling. (The stuffed
halibut is humongous.) 278 S. Franklin St., Juneau. Phone
907-463-3658. http://www.reddogsaloon.com.
Live Music
Alaskan Hotel & Bar
This Victorian hotel, built in 1913, has retained its
gold-rush decor and two-story bar room. Located in the back
of the Alaska Hotel, the bar has live music—blues or
folk—Friday and Saturday 9 pm-3 am. Most Thursdays it hosts
an open-mike night. 167 S. Franklin St., Juneau. Phone
907-586-1000. Toll-free 800-327-9347.
http://www.thealaskanhotel.com.
The Island Pub
You'll find this hot spot in Douglas, which lies within the
city of Juneau on the northeast coast of Douglas Island.
Formerly Mike's Place, the Island Pub is known for great
pizzas, draft and bottled beer, and a nice selection of
wines. The foccacia bread and pizza crust are made in-house
and baked in a brick oven. Watch orcas right outside the
window. Live music Saturday in the summer. Open daily 11:30
am-10 pm for food. Bar open til 1 am Monday-Friday, til 2 am
Saturday and Sunday. 1102 Second St., Douglas. Phone
907-364-1595. http://www.theislandpub.com.
Performing Arts
Theater
Perseverance Theatre
This small theater produces quality performances that
surpass its size. Since it was founded in 1979, the theater
has premiered more than 60 new plays by Alaskan and national
playwrights. 914 Third St., Douglas. Phone 907-364-2421.
http://www.perseverancetheatre.org.
Other Options
Juneau Arts and Humanities Council
This is the place to learn about local happenings in art,
music, dance and theater, including the Juneau Lyric Opera
Co., the Juneau Symphony, Opera to Go, Theatre in the Rough,
the Canvas and Juneau Dance Unlimited. Located in the Juneau
Arts and Community Center (JACC) next to Centennial Hall
downtown, 350 Whittier St., Juneau. Phone 907-586-2787.
http://www.jahc.org.
Shopping
Juneau has more shopping options than any other port in
Alaska—some stores are typical and some unique. But the
variety of specialty and souvenir stores, art galleries,
crafts, elegant furs and clothing are some of the best
anywhere.
South Franklin Street, near the cruise terminals, is
shopping central: It's packed with stores selling expensive
Alaska Native art and beautiful gold and silver jewelry, as
well as T-shirts and trinkets. Tram Plaza, at 495 S.
Franklin St., is near Franklin Dock, the southernmost
cruise-ship terminal. The Senate Building, at 175 S.
Franklin St., houses several shops on two levels: Boheme
(women's clothing), Changing Tides (quilting and fabrics),
Skeins (knitting), Juneau Artists Gallery (handmade local
art, jewelry, photography and prints), Bear's Lair
(Alaska-themed gifts) and Juneau Fly Fishers.
In addition to the shops downtown, Juneau has two malls in
the Mendenhall Valley: the Mendenhall Mall on Mendenhall
Mall Road and Nugget Mall at 8745 Glacier Highway
(http://www.nuggetmalljuneau.com). The Airport Shopping
Center, a short walk from the airport, houses a used-book
store, hardware store, flower shop and other specialty
stores.
Shopping Hours: Usually daily 10 am-6 pm, but many shops
open earlier and stay open late if a cruise ship is in port.
Shopping malls often remain open until 9 pm.
Antique Stores
Deja vu Antiques
A pleasing collection of old stuff, from costume jewelry to
home accessories. Merchants Wharf, 2 Marine Way, No. 122,
Juneau. Phone 907-463-6700.
Bookstores
Amazing Bookstore
Friends of the Juneau Public Library sell and give away
books to benefit local libraries. Open Monday-Friday 1-7 pm,
Saturday 10 am-6 pm, Sunday noon-5 pm. 9131 Glacier Highway
(in the Airport Shopping Center), Juneau. Phone
907-789-4913. http://www.friendsjpl.org/bookstore.
Hearthside Books and Toys
Specializes in books about Alaska, and also sells toys,
games, maps and gifts. There is a second location in Nugget
Mall (phone 907-789-2750). 254 Front St., Juneau. Phone
907-586-1726. http://www.hearthsidebooks.com.
Observatory Bookstore
A used-book store specializing in unique, collectible
Alaskan, Russian and other polar-area books and maps.
May-September open Monday-Friday 10 am-5:30 pm,
October-April open Monday-Friday 12:30-5 pm. 299 N. Franklin
St., Juneau. Phone 907-586-9676.
http://www.observatorybooks.com.
Rainy Retreat Books
A good selection of new and used books. Open Monday-Friday
9:30 am-6 pm. 113 N. Seward St., Juneau. Phone 907-463-2665.
http://juneaubooks.com.
Department Stores
Fred Meyer
A full-spectrum store, selling everything from groceries and
clothes to furniture and tools. 8181 Old Glacier Highway,
Juneau. Phone 907-789-6500. http://www.fredmeyer.com.
Galleries
Decker Gallery
This gallery features the works of beloved Alaskan artist
Rie Munoz. 233 S. Franklin St., Juneau. Phone 907-463-5536.
Gallery of the North
Browse through this upstairs gallery for paintings, prints,
sculptures, ivory and rugs crafted by Alaska Native artists.
Art from the Lower 48 is also well-represented. 147 S.
Franklin, Juneau. Phone 907-586-9700.
The Juneau Artists Gallery
This artist-owned, cooperative gallery in the Senate
Building specializes in locally created crafts, including
fused-art glass, prints, sketches and paintings, jewelry,
scarves, pottery and photography. The artists serve as
salespersons, and locals shop for gifts there. 175 S.
Franklin St., Juneau. Phone 907-586-9891.
http://www.juneauartistsgallery.com.
Specialty Stores
Annie Kaill's
Annie Kaill's is a great place to pick up Alaskan art,
pottery and jewelry, including collectible porcelain
figurines of Alaska Natives by C. Allen Johnson. (The coffee
and jelly beans are free.) 244 Front St., Juneau. Phone
907-586-2880. http://www.anniekaills.com.
Bear's Lair
A Juneau favorite, Bear's Lair specializes in unique
Alaskan-themed gifts, such as wildflower- and salmon-etched
glassware, cabin quilts and throws, slate products, shell
serving dishes, carved wood bowls and bears, handmade
Christmas ornaments, pottery and a variety of baby gifts.
175 S. Franklin St. (in the historic Senate Building),
Juneau. Phone 907-586-5059. http://bearslairgifts.com.
Boheme
A trendy, upscale clothing shop with bling-laden accessories
for contemporary, independent women. May-September open 8
am-9 pm, October-April open 10:30 am-5:30 pm. 175 S.
Franklin St (in the Senate Building), Juneau. Phone
907-586-2050.
Caribou Crossings
Features unique Alaskan gifts and apparel. Open
May-September. 497 S. Franklin St., Juneau. Phone
907-586-5008. Toll-free 877-586-5008.
http://www.cariboucrossings.com.
George's Jewelry and Gifts
Fine jewelry, gifts and Alaska Native crafts. 194 S.
Franklin St., Juneau. Phone 907-586-1810.
Imagination Station
With a great assortment of toys, games, books and dolls,
this is a favorite store not only for children but for the
kid in all of us. Open Monday-Friday 10 am-6 pm, Saturday 10
am-5 pm, Sunday noon-5 pm. 174-A S. Franklin St. (in the
Emporium Mall), Juneau. Phone 907-586-8697.
http://www.alaskantoys.com.
Midnight Sun Gifts
Housed in the historic Germania Building, original site of
the Red Dog Saloon, this locally owned and operated store
stocks made-in-Alaska and Alaska Native collector's pieces:
whalebone and moose antler carvings, ulus and Eskimo dolls.
It also carries DeRosa porcelain figurines, soaps, jewelry,
clothing, and animal prints and paintings. May-September
open daily 8 am-9 pm, October-April open daily 10 am-6 pm.
158 S. Franklin St., Juneau. Phone 907-463-1226.
Nugget Alaskan Outfitter
A local favorite, this outfitter features outdoor Alaskan
clothing, shoes and gear for work or play. 8745 Glacier
Highway, No. 145 (in the Nugget Mall), Juneau. Phone
907-789-0956. Toll-free 800-478-6848.
http://www.nuggetoutfitter.com.
RainTree Quilting
This store offers unique Alaskan fabrics and kits for
quilting and embroidery. Lots of samples decorate the walls.
2213 Dunn St. (off Glacier Highway across from Frontier
Suites), Juneau. Phone 907-789-7900.
http://www.raintreequilting.com.
Rufus K Page
Browse this store for locally made jewelry, Alaska
Native-themed stories and legends, shawls and scarves, fun
socks, aprons, ties and moose-themed pajamas. Recycled
wool-felted jackets, sweaters and mittens will keep you
warm. There's also a kids' gift corner. Open daily in
summer. Merchants Wharf, 2 Marine Way, No. 120, Juneau.
Phone 907-586-2600.
Shoefly & Hudsons
Step out in style, no matter what the weather. You may need
two pairs of shoes: one for muddy outdoors and a pair of
three-inch party heels "with attitude" for the captain's
table dinner. The socks and purses are also outrageously
fun. 109 Seward St. (next to Juneau Drug Store), Juneau.
Phone 907-586-1055. http://www.shoeflyalaska.com.
Taku Smokeries and Store
Stop in for a free sample of locally caught smoked sockeye
or king salmon and for a self-guided tour of the smoking and
packing operations. 550 S. Franklin St. (next to the tram
and Twisted Fish restaurant), Juneau. Phone 907-463-3474.
http://takustore.com.
The Foggy Mountain Shop
If you want to hike or backpack in the Juneau area, this is
the place to go for advice. Also pick up rugged clothing and
gear for cold, wet outdoor weather. 134 N. Franklin St.,
Juneau. Phone 907-586-6780.
http://www.foggymountainshop.com.
The Jewel Box
Founded during territorial days, this is Juneau's oldest
jewelry store and one trusted by locals. 248 Front St.,
Juneau. Phone 907-586-2604.
William Spear Design
Sells unique enameled pins and zipper pulls that are
wearable works of art and perfectly sized to carry home
easily. They come in designs for every taste and interest.
174 S. Franklin St., No. 201, Juneau. Phone 907-586-2209.
http://wmspear.com.
Itinerary
Local Tours
Outdoor adventure is what really draws visitors to Juneau.
Considered the gateway to the glaciers, the capital city is
the place to arrange flightseeing and helicopter treks to
the Juneau Icefield, boat tours of Glacier Bay National Park
or Tracy Arm Fjord, whale-watching tours in Icy Strait,
world-class salmon and halibut fishing charters, or kayaking
trips in the serene waters of the Inside Passage. If you
want to gawk at brown bears fishing, you can arrange a trip
to Admiralty Island National Monument's Pack Creek and Stan
Price Wildlife Preserve at Pack Creek. You can also learn
about the area's mining heritage and visit one of the quaint
villages nestled along Inside Passage waters: Tenakee Hot
Springs, Elfin Cove and Pelican, or visit the Tlingit
communities of Angoon or Hoonah.
One of the most popular excursions is a helicopter or
flightseeing trip to the Juneau Icefield. Some tours include
a glacial hike or a short dogsled ride on the glacier.
Others are strictly flyovers. Be prepared for cancellation
if the weather is bad. Companies offering the tours include
Coastal Helicopters (phone 907-789-5600, toll-free
800-789-5610; http://www.coastalhelicopters.com), Era
Helicopters (toll-free 800-843-1947;
http://www.flightseeingtours.com), NorthStar Trekking (phone
907-790-4530, toll-free 866-590-4530;
http://www.northstartrekking.com) and Temsco Helicopters
(phone 907-789-9501, toll-free 877-789-9501;
http://www.temscoair.com). Tour lengths and prices vary.
Most outfitters also offer kayaking day trips with
instruction, equipment and a guide. If you are an
experienced paddler, you can rent a kayak or canoe and
explore the inlets along Gastineau Channel on your own
through Alaska Boat and Kayak at Auke Bay.
Several tour operators offer a variety of tours to large
groups and more independent-minded visitors. (Most tours
offered are similar to those arranged by cruise ships.)
Tours normally operate May to mid-September.
Two Web sites provide historic walking tour maps and
information:
http://www.juneau.org/cddftp/HSD/downtown_historic_district.php
and
http://www.traveljuneau.com/cms/d/downtown_street_tour.php.
Air Excursions
Offers flightseeing tours of Southeast Alaska. 401 Main St.,
Gustavus. Phone 907-766-3800. http://www.airexcursions.com.
Alaska Canopy Adventures
Alaska Canopy Adventures offers its tour 200 ft/62 m above
the Treadwell Mine area, with a boat trip from Juneau to
Douglas Island and back. US$179. 406 S. Franklin St., No.
210, Juneau. Phone 907-523-2920.
http://www.alaskacanopyadventures.com.
Alaska-Gastineau Mill and Gold Mine Tour
To learn about Juneau's mining history, visit the 1916
Alaska-Juneau (A-J) Mine and Gastineau Mill, one of the
biggest gold mines in Alaska. Your underground and
aboveground tour comes with a hard hat and a demonstration
of old mining equipment. You also get a chance to pan for
the shiny stuff. Dress warmly. Book through Holland America
Princess Alaska Tours. Tickets are US$65, US$35 children 12
and younger. 500 Sheep Creek Mine Road (4 mi/6 km south of
downtown), Juneau. Phone 907-586-9625 (Holland America).
Alaska Zipline Adventure
Alaska Zipline Adventure operates its tour at Eaglecrest,
Juneau's ski area, an alpine environment with spectacular
scenery. It also has combination zipline and glacier, indoor
climbing and Jeep tours. US$139. Phone 907-321-0947.
http://www.alaskazip.com.
Dolphin Jet Boat Tours
Dolphin Jet Boat Tours provides trips into the water to see
whales and other marine life. Prices start at US$105. 9571
Meadow Lane, Juneau. Phone 907-463-3422. Toll-free
800-719-3422. http://www.dolphintours.com.
Gastineau Guiding
Local residents lead rain-forest and sea-coast nature hikes,
whale-watching tours, wilderness sea kayaking and a photo
safari by land and sea. US$74-$195, depending on the length
of the tour. 1330 Eastaugh Way, Suite 2, Juneau. Phone
907-586-8231. http://www.stepintoalaska.com.
Mountain Travel Sobek
This international travel company specializes in multiday
Glacier Bay trips. A six-day plane ride/kayak/camping trip
for six people is US$2,995 per person, plus US$350 airfare.
(There's also a more strenuous eight-day trip for the same
price.) The company also operates three-day camping and
kayak trips to see the whales of Point Adolphus for US$995
per person, as well as a Glacier Bay escape, five days
kayaking and camping for US$1,995 and US$180 airfare.
Toll-free 888-687-6235. http://www.mtsobek.com.
Orca Enterprises
Personalized whale-watching tours on a high-speed boat.
Three or four trips are offered daily in summer.
Reservations required. About US$120 adults. 495 S. Franklin
St., Juneau. Phone 907-789-6801. Toll-free 888-733-6722.
http://www.alaskawhalewatching.com.
Taku Glacier Lodge Flight and Feast
On this three-hour, 30-mi/48-km floatplane tour, you'll have
a window seat as you fly past five glaciers and land on the
Taku River across from Hole-in-the-Wall Glacier. Inside the
historic log lodge, you'll feast on wild Alaska king salmon
as part of your breakfast, lunch or dinner as you listen to
the adventures of Mary Joyce, a daring woman who dogsledded
1,000 mi/1,610 km from Juneau to Fairbanks in the winter.
There's time to explore the lodge, wander wilderness trails
and possibly see the local bear Scarface or his family. May
to mid-September. US$260 adults. 2 Marine Way, No. 175,
Juneau. Phone 907-586-6275. http://www.wingsairways.com.
Day Plans
To help you make the most of your short time in Juneau,
we've designed three itineraries.
PLAN A
Juneau Walkabout
If you didn't sign up for the ship-sponsored salmon bake,
make reservations for the Thane Ore House Salmon Bake or the
Gold Creek Salmon Bake—you have to partake of this
quintessential Alaskan meal sometime during your visit to
the state. Both offer free transportation from town.
Ride the Mount Roberts Tramway up to the 2,000-ft/620-m
mountain peak for a spectacular view of the surrounding
area. If the tramway wait is too long, do the walking-tour
part of this plan first and go back to the tram later.
Explore the trails, shops, movie and restaurant at the top
of the tram—and visit the live eagle just outside the
Mountain House.
After your descent, stroll along the Juneau Seawalk. When
you reach the Juneau Library (above the parking garage at
292 Marine Way), look for the mural depicting the Tlingit
creation story, in which salmon were transformed into the
first humans, on the back of the city building.
Walk along Admiral Way and turn left at South Franklin
Street. Peek into the rowdy Red Dog Saloon. Turn left at
Front Street and walk uphill on Main Street to see Skip
Wallen's bronze statue of a brown bear fishing. Take a right
on Fourth and go uphill on Franklin Street to the St.
Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church at 326 Fifth St.—just look
for the onion-shaped dome.
Backtrack a bit to the Alaska State Capitol and
Juneau-Douglas City Museum at the corner of Fourth and Main.
The museum's video about the city of Juneau and interpretive
displays on gold mining are both worth a look. Continue west
on Fourth Street (it winds around and becomes Calhoun
Street) to the Governor's Mansion. A totem pole that shows
the origins of man and the mosquito is outside.
Retrace your steps on Calhoun. Go under the overpass and
down the stairs to your right to Willoughby Street. You'll
see the Alaska State Museum on Whittier Street. Take time to
roam the two floors of this fantastic museum. Then prepare
for dinner. If it's Friday, join locals at Marine Park (next
to the cruise ships) for Concert in the Park, an informal
outdoor music fest.
PLAN B
The Ice Age and Back
Rent a car, and make reservations for dinner. Then grab a
picnic lunch and slip on a jacket and hiking shoes. Head
north on the waterfront road, which becomes Egan Drive and
then Glacier Highway. Continue past the airport and follow
the signs to the Mendenhall Glacier, 13 mi/21 km northwest
of town.
After seeing the displays at the visitors center, hit the
hiking trails. One short path takes you to a scenic spot
where you can snap dramatic photos of Mendenhall Glacier
(appropriately, it's called the Photo Point Trail). You can
also take the unmarked path to the right of the glacier to a
majestic waterfall—well worth the effort.
Get back in the car and follow the signs back to Egan
Drive/Glacier Highway and turn right toward Auke Bay. Stop
at the turnoff for the University of Alaska Southeast and
Chapel by the Lake for snapshots of Mendenhall Glacier
reflected in Auke Lake. Past Auke Bay and the ferry terminal
on Glacier Highway is Auke Recreation Area, former site of
the Auke Tlingit village—it's a good place to have your
picnic. Continue on the road to the Shrine of St. Therese at
Mile 23. This stone church tucked on an island accessible by
a gravel causeway is a whale-watching retreat.
On your return to the city, stop by Glacier Gardens
Rainforest Adventure and ride in a covered shuttle through
the rain forest and magical upside-down trees, stopping for
a panoramic sunset view of Gastineau Channel and coffee in
the flower-festooned greenhouse.
PLAN C
Rainy Day
Don't despair at the downpour. Put on a raincoat and head
out to enjoy the rain forest. Buy a ticket for the Juneau
Trolley or walk up South Franklin Street, where the many
interesting shops have overhangs to keep the rain off. Grab
a coffee at Heritage Coffeehouse then continue along South
Franklin to browse through your choice of bookstores:
Hearthside, Rainy Retreat Books and the Observatory
Bookstore are all located on the same block.
Follow Seward Street north to Fourth Street and turn left,
walking past the marble columns of the State Capitol to the
small city museum at 114 West Fourth St. After boning up on
local history, dash across the street to the massive State
Office Building. Admire the Old Witch totem in the atrium,
then take the elevator to the eighth floor to see the old
organ as you walk past a rooftop view of the city. Go
through to the far side and take the elevator to the first
floor (thus avoiding a walk in the rain). Another dash
across the street puts you in the main visitors center at
Centennial Hall. After picking up local maps, go out the
back entrance and cross the parking lot to the State Museum.
When you're hungry, retrace your path through Centennial
Hall, and then back across Egan Drive to the blue Merchant's
Wharf building, where the expansive windows at the Hangar on
the Wharf restaurant afford a view of the water. From there,
catch a cab or shuttle to the Mendenhall Glacier and admire
it from the visitors center. On the way back, stop at
Glacier Gardens, where you can explore the outdoors from the
shelter of covered golf carts. Or go underground to get out
of the rain by exploring the tunnels on the Alaska Gastineau
Mill and A-J Mine Tour.
Finish the evening with the Alaskan kitsch of the Red Dog
Saloon on South Franklin Street or in the equally historic
Alaskan Bar.
Dining
Dining Overview
Seafood is the specialty of most restaurants, but the city
also has a surprising array of different cuisines. A salmon
bake is an experience every visitor should have, so make
reservations in advance.
If you like beer, ask for an Alaskan Amber, Stout, IPA,
White or Pale Ale. They're brewed year-round by Juneau's
award-winning Alaska Brewing Co. along with seasonal summer
and winter ales.
For a snack while you're shopping downtown, be sure to
sample some fudge from the Alaskan Fudge Co. To warm up on a
drizzly day, savor a huge cup of hot chocolate and a cookie
from Paradise Cafe.
When several cruise ships are in town during the summer, or
if there's a major event, it's best to make reservations.
This is generally not necessary during the rest of the year.
Expect to pay within these guidelines for a meal for one,
not including drinks, tax or tip: $ = less than US$10; $$ =
US$10-$20; $$$ = US$21-$50; and $$$$ = more than US$50.
Local & Regional
Gold Room
Located at the beautiful and historic Westmark Baranof
Hotel, the Gold Room has excellent Alaskan cuisine and fine
wines. The crispy marionberry-glazed half-duckling and
hazelnut-crusted elk fillet in a port cherry-wine sauce are
excellent, as is the king crab. Open for lunch and dinner.
$$-$$$. Most major credit cards. 127 N. Franklin St.,
Juneau. Phone 907-586-2660. Toll-free 800-544-0970.
http://www.westmarkhotels.com/juneau-food.php.
Hangar on the Wharf
You can watch floatplanes take off and land while you eat at
this waterfront restaurant at Merchants Wharf, an old
converted airplane hangar built on pilings overlooking
Gastineau Channel's busy floatplane dock and home to several
restaurants and shops. Try the halibut tacos, hot ciabatta
sandwiches, Cajun chicken or blackened salmon Caesar salad
and steaks. Be sure to sample a local Alaskan Brewing Co.
microbrew from a selection of 100 beers, including 28 on
draft—the biggest selection in southeast Alaska. Also a
popular, smoke-free late-night hangout. Open for lunch and
dinner. Reservations available. $$. Most major credit cards.
Merchants Wharf, 2 Marine Way, No. 106, Juneau. Phone
907-586-5018. http://www.hangaronthewharf.com.
Sandpiper Cafe
Half a block from the Alaska State Museum, this is an airy,
casual restaurant. Breakfast favorites include sourdough
ricotta pancakes, Mandarin-orange French toast and smoked
salmon omelettes. For lunch, go wild with wild-game buffalo
burgers, or the specially made corned beef hash. Also
popular are the citrus chicken salad with chili-lime
dressing and chicken cashew salad. Espresso gets raves
there. No alcohol. Open year-round daily for breakfast and
lunch. $$. Visa and MasterCard accepted. 429 W. Willoughby
Ave., Juneau. Phone 907-586-3150.
Cuisines
Asian
Canton House
Authentic Chinese cuisine in a beautiful, spacious
restaurant with lots of windows. Favorites are Mongolian
beef, lo mein and the combination lunch specials. Daily for
lunch and dinner. Reservations recommended. $$. Most major
credit cards. 8585 Old Dairy Road (at the corner of Egan
Drive and Glacier Highway, across from Nugget Mall), Juneau.
Phone 907-789-5075. http://www.cantonhouse.net.
Chan's Thai Kitchen
Small, inexpensive and popular Auke Bay restaurant with
unique dishes and dinette-table decor. Pad thai, cashew
chicken and spring rolls are popular. Tuesday-Friday for
lunch and dinner, Saturday for dinner only. No reservations,
so arrive early. $$. 11806 Glacier Highway, Auke Bay. Phone
907-789-9777.
Dragon Inn
This popular restaurant serves genuine Chinese cuisine. Hong
Kong transplant and owner Peter Lan offers specialties such
as Mongolian beef, dim sum, and sweet and sour chicken and
pork. Open Monday-Friday for lunch and dinner, Saturday for
dinner only. Reservations recommended. $$. 5000 Glacier
Highway (in the Lemon Creek area), Juneau. Phone
907-586-4888.
Seong's Sushi Bar
This small, popular sushi bar serves fish as fresh as it can
be, along with Chinese food. Open for lunch and dinner. $$.
Most major credit cards. 740 W. Ninth St. (across from the
Federal Building), Juneau. Phone 907-586-4778.
Zen
This upscale restaurant serves Asian fusion cuisine in a
nicely decorated, spacious room in the Goldbelt Hotel with
water views across Egan Drive. Favorites on the menu are
ginger halibut, black cod stir-fry, Thai coconut-curry
shrimp, and steaks. For lunch, the peanut chicken salad is a
best-seller. Full wine menu from the Jaded Bar, attached to
the restaurant. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Breakfast
is also served in summer. Reservations recommended. $$-$$$.
Most major credit cards. 51 Egan Drive, Juneau. Phone
907-586-5075 or 907-586-1551 (Jaded Bar).
http://www.zen-restaurant.net.
Italian
Bullwinkle's Pizza Parlor
A Juneau institution since 1973, with tasty pizza (garlic
chicken is a favorite), a good salad bar, buffalo wings,
sandwiches and all-you-can-eat popcorn. Kid-friendly with
family style tables surrounded by arcade machines. There is
a second location at Mendenhall Mall (phone 709-789-3900).
Open daily for lunch and dinner. $-$$. 318 Willoughby Ave.,
Juneau. Phone 907-586-2400. http://www.bullwinklespizza.com.
Pizzeria Roma
A huge mural of the Juneau waterfront and historic Alaska
Coastal Hangar decorates this cozy Marine Wharf restaurant.
Try the Jamaican bacon and Guido's combo pizzas, or the
delicious Insalata Roma salad. Among the favorites are
scampi, osso bucco, chicken Tuscany, focaccia sandwiches,
freshly baked tiramisu and cannoli. In the summer, it also
serves oysters and steamer clams. Open daily for lunch and
dinner. $$. Merchants Wharf, 2 Marine Way No. 104, Juneau.
Phone 907-463-5020.
http://pizzeriaroma.hangaronthewharf.com.
Tarentino's
Romantic decor, soft music and candles set the scene for
Juneau's newest Italian restaurant. Zuppa de mari, a
Roman-style fish soup, is laden with local fresh fish. Other
favorites are chicken marsala, halibut piccata and veal
parmesan. Open daily for lunch and dinner in summer,
Monday-Saturday in winter. $$. 140 Seward St., Juneau. Phone
907-523-0344.
Mexican
El Sombrero
A popular Juneau eatery in the heart of downtown since 1979,
featuring combination platters and Mexican munchies. On a
sunny day, ask to sit on the second-story patio to enjoy a
view of bustling Franklin Street. Open daily for lunch and
dinner. $-$$. Most major credit cards. 157 S. Franklin,
Juneau. Phone 907-586-6770.
Olivia's de Mexico
A family-owned and -operated Juneau tradition since 1974,
this festive restaurant is in a vibrantly decorated
basement. Try any of the homemade Mexican dishes, including
the chili verde or chili relleno. Monday-Saturday for lunch
and dinner. Reservations recommended. $-$$. Most major
credit cards. 222 Seward St., Juneau. Phone 907-586-6870.
Breakfast & Brunch
Silverbow Inn Bakery and Back Room Restaurant
In a historic building, this oldest continually operating
bakery in Alaska (since 1898) is known for its homemade, New
York-style bagels and freshly baked bread, pastries, soups,
salads and sandwiches. Casual dining along the window or in
the back room, which also serves as a funky hangout for
locals and bed-and-breakfast patrons. The Back Room becomes
a free cinema Monday-Wednesday at 8 pm. Catering is also
available. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. $-$$.
Most major credit cards. 120 Second St., Juneau. Phone
907-586-4146. http://www.silverbowinn.com.
Southeast Waffle Co.
This hangout near the University of Alaska Southeast has a
great view of Auke Bay, free Wi-Fi and breakfast all
evening—so long as it's waffles. But these waffles go beyond
the traditional butter and syrup. Try the omelette waffle
with salsa or a sandwich with your mocha or latte. Open
Monday-Thursday 6 am-10 pm, Friday 6 am-11 pm, Saturday 7
am-11 pm and Sunday noon-10 pm. $-$$. 11806 Glacier Highway,
Auke Bay. Phone 907-789-2030.
Cafes & Tearooms
Capital Cafe
Located in the Baranof Hotel, this cafe features halibut and
chips, clam chowder, salads and traditional breakfast fare.
Monday-Friday 6 am-2 pm, Saturday and Sunday 7 am-2 pm.
$-$$. Most major credit cards. 127 N. Franklin St., Juneau.
Phone 907-586-2600.
http://www.westmarkhotels.com/juneau-food.php.
Paradise Cafe
This small cafe is the place to go for delicious
baked-from-scratch cookies, pastries or Berries in Paradise,
a croissant topped with egg custard, berries and fresh
whipped cream. Enjoy homemade soup, pasta, salads and
wraps—plus great coffee—at indoor or outdoor tables with
cruise ship or water views. Open in summer daily for
breakfast and lunch; in winter, Monday-Friday for breakfast
and lunch. $-$$. 245 Marine Way, Juneau. Phone 907-586-2253.
http://paradisecafeyeehaw.com.
The Hot Bite
A small indoor-outdoor eatery where locals munch on
sandwiches—such as portabella mushrooms brushed with garlic
olive oil, stuffed with spinach and four cheeses, and then
grilled and served on a toasted Kaiser bun—hamburgers,
charbroiled chicken, and halibut and chips. Try one of the
smooth old-fashioned milk shakes for dessert. The hardest
part is picking a flavor from the long list of
possibilities. Open for lunch and early dinner in summer
only. Reservations not accepted. $$-$$$. Most major credit
cards. 11465 Auke Bay Harbor Road (13 mi/21 km north of
downtown), Auke Bay. Phone 907-790-2483.
Vintage Fare Cafe
"Vintage" aprons and kitchen tools decorate this popular
cozy cafe at Nugget Mall in the valley, where the locals go.
Smoothies, croissants, bagels and breakfast wraps laden with
hash browns, cheese and scrambled eggs are popular fare for
breakfast, and there's a full espresso bar. For lunch, try
the freshly baked quiches, homemade soups, and an assortment
of wraps and sandwiches. The homemade Alaska-sized cookies,
brownies, muffins and breads are warm and tempting. There's
usually a sample on the counter. Vintage Fare is also a
wireless Internet cafe. Open year-round Monday-Saturday for
breakfast, lunch and dinner; Sunday for brunch and early
dinner. $-$$. Most major credit cards. 8745 Glacier Highway
(in the Nugget Mall), Juneau. Phone 907-789-1865.
Coffeehouses
Heritage Coffee Co.
This local espresso chain has six locations throughout
Juneau, including coffee bars and kiosks, as well as the
Heritage Glacier Cafe in the Mendenhall Mall shopping area
(phone 709-789-0692). Its slogan is "The cup that tamed the
last frontier." $-$$. 174 S. Franklin St., Juneau. Phone
907-586-1087. Toll-free 800-478-5282.
http://www.heritagecoffee.com.
Valentine's Coffee House & Pizzeria
A popular meeting place, Valentine's specializes in homemade
foods. The egg, sausage and tomato wrap is great for
breakfast. Lunch specialties include the chicken pesto and
Greek calzone, fresh salads, and homemade breads and soups.
Try the coconut curry chicken. Daily 7 am-8 pm. $-$$. Visa
and MasterCard accepted. 111 Seward St. (downtown), Juneau.
Phone 907-463-5144. http://valentinescoffeehouse.com.
Continental
Zephyr
Mediterranean cuisine in the historic Simpson Building comes
with candlelit ambience and an extensive European wine list.
Try the lamb with citrus honey and couscous, veal osso bucco
with saffron risotto and Aegean pasta dishes. Open daily for
dinner year round. $$-$$$. 200 Seward St., Juneau. Phone
907-780-2221.
Late Night
Merchants Wharf is the place to go for a late-night snack.
The Hangar on the Wharf serves food in the bar. Pizzeria
Roma stays open until 10 pm. Pel Meni
Serving only Russian dumplings filled with either meat or
potatoes, Pel Meni offers a quick, inexpensive and
satisfying late-night snack, popular with the younger crowd.
Open Monday-Friday 11:30 am-1:30 am, Saturday and Sunday
11:30 am-3:30 am. $. Merchant's Wharf, 2 Marine Way, Juneau.
Seafood
Thane Ore House Salmon Bake
This rustic restaurant—popular with locals because the fish
is fresh—is an Alaskan experience. It offers a great
all-you-can-eat salmon bake as well as ribs, beer-battered
halibut, homemade baked beans, salad bar and corn bread. You
enter through what looks like a mine tunnel, and there is a
free museum of Alaska Gastineau mine relics in an adjacent
room. Nearby is the Sheep Creek salmon run. Eat outside with
views of Gastineau Channel on sunny days or snuggle up by
the roaring fireplace when it's drizzly. Reservations
recommended for large groups. $$. Most major credit cards.
4400 Thane Road, Juneau. Phone 907-586-3442.
http://www.thaneorehouse.com.
T.K. Maguire's
Seafood—especially the captain's plate and king crab—along
with steaks, prime rib, pastas and Alaska-sized salads are
the specialties of this longtime Juneau restaurant.
Maguire's has "Juneau's best Sunday brunch" as well as a
lounge. Early mining photos decorate the walls. Open
Monday-Saturday 7 am-9 pm, Sunday 10 am-9 pm. $$. 375
Whittier St. (in the Prospector Hotel across from the boat
harbors on Gastineau Channel), Juneau. Phone 907-586-3711.
http://www.prospectorhotel.com/restaurant.htm.
Twisted Fish Co. Alaskan Grill
Wild Alaska seafood (the tempura halibut, cedar-plank salmon
with berry chutney and king crab are house specialties)
served with an excellent waterfront view. Try the shrimp
fritters with spicy Thai sauce. The restaurant also has
great pasta, salads, buffalo burgers and steaks. Open for
lunch and dinner in the summer. Closed in the winter.
Reservations recommended. $$-$$$. Most major credit cards.
550 S. Franklin St., Juneau. Phone 907-463-5033.
http://twistedfish.hangaronthewharf.com.
Security
Personal Safety
Crime isn't a significant problem in Juneau. Use common
sense and be aware of your surroundings. There are many
foreign visitors and crewmembers constantly in and out of
the city. Also, be on the lookout for black bears.
Health
Mosquitoes and other nibblers aren't nearly as bad as in
other parts of Alaska but can be a nuisance when you're out
hiking or fishing near the woods around dusk—don't venture
out of town without a good insect repellent.
Always be aware of the possibility of encountering a bear.
If you do, don't approach it and try to avoid quick actions
that may alarm it. Inquire locally for details on recent
bear activity and advice on how to behave around the
animals. Forest-service rangers offer bear-viewing advice at
the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center and at the U.S. Forest
Service Tongass National Forest, Juneau Ranger District.
Phone 907-586-8800.
http://www.fs.fed.us/r10/tongass/forest_facts/safety/bearfacts.shtml.
Bartlett Regional Hospital is located 4 mi/6 km north of
downtown at 3260 Hospital Drive. Phone 907-796-8900.
http://www.bartletthospital.org.
Disabled Advisory
Most of Juneau is wheelchair accessible, and most shops and
downtown hotels are at ground level. Several buses with
Capital Transit have wheelchair lifts, as do downtown
trolleys. The Juneau International Airport and the Alaska
Marine Highway ferries are accessible.
Care-a-Van, located at 1805 Glacier Highway, operates an
accessible van for locals. With 24-hour notice, drivers will
assist visitors when the schedule allows. Phone
907-463-6194.
http://www.ccsjuneau.org/63,careavantransportation.
For more information about accessibility, contact Southeast
Alaska Independent Living (SAIL) and Outdoor Recreation and
Community Access (ORCA) at 3225 Hospital Drive. Phone
907-586-4920. Toll-free 800-478-7245.
http://www.sailinc.org.
South East Alaska Medical Suppliers rent wheelchairs for
US$55 plus deposit for one to seven days, or for US$81 per
month. It also has respiratory equipment, ramps, scooters
and other supplies. Located at 5636 Glacier Highway, Suite
200, in the Lemon Creek area. Phone 907-586-6880.
http://www.sealaskamedsupply.com.
Dos & Don'ts
Do dress casually—and in layers. Be sure to take along
comfortable walking shoes and a raincoat.
Don't make insulting comments about ravens or eagles—they're
important mythological figures to Alaska Natives.
Do be very careful with trash, which will attract bears.
Dispose of it in the latched trash cans you'll find around
town, but don't deposit mail in those cans (they resemble
mailboxes).
Don't be surprised to see people dressed in rubber boots,
even in fine restaurants.
Don't hike alone. And do always tell someone where you're
going and when you expect to return.
Hotels
Hotel Overview
Juneau has about a dozen major hotels and motels. The oldest
hotels—some historic, some grand and some well worn—are all
downtown. Newer hotels surround the airport. Most offer
airport shuttles, and many can make extended-stay
arrangements. A variety of bed-and-breakfasts provide
additional choices.
Beyond Juneau, you will find a number of lodges and resorts
accessible by float plane, wheel plane or boat. National
forest campgrounds at Mendenhall Lake, Auke Bay and Eagle
Beach State Recreation Area provide sites for tents and
recreational vehicles
(http://www.fs.fed.us/r10/tongass/recreation/rec_facilities/jnurec.shtml).
A few public-use cabins are within hiking distance of the
Juneau road system. They cost US$35 per night and can be
reserved in advance (toll-free 877-444-6777;
http://www.recreation.gov/campgroundSearch.do).
Several other cabins are accessible by boat or float plane.
In Juneau, the Point Bridget and Eagle Beach State Park
cabins can be rented through the Alaska Department of
Natural Resources. Phone 907-269-8400.
http://www.dnr.state.ak.us/parks/cabins.
Hotel Listings
Phone: (1) 907-790-6435
Fax: (1) 907-790-6621
Toll Free: (1) 888-559-9846
Extended Stay Deluxe Hotel
1800 Shell Simmons Dr 99801-9374
juneau@aspenhotelsak.com http://www.extendedstaydeluxe.com
94 Guest Rooms • 2 Meeting Rooms
Location: Adjacent to the airport
Nearby Points of Interest: Mendenhall Glacier
(Monument-Glacier) - 5 mi • State Museum (Museum) - 11 mi
Phone: (1) 907-586-6900
Fax: (1) 907-463-3567
Toll Free: (1) 888-478-6909
Goldbelt Hotel
51 Egan Dr 99801
gbh@hotel.com http://www.goldbelthotel.com
105 Guest Rooms • 3 Meeting Rooms • Restaurant[s]
Location: Near downtown
Nearby Points of Interest: Mendenhall Glacier - 15 mi • Mt
Roberts Tram • State Capitol
Phone: (1) 907-789-3772
Fax: (1)
Toll Free: (1) 888-658-6328
Pearsons Pond Luxury Inn & Adventure Spa
4541 Sawa Circle 99801-8723
book@PearsonsPond.com http://www.pearsonspond.com
8 Guest Rooms • 2 Meeting Rooms
Location: Near Glacier Bay departures, Mendenhall Glacier,
airport, historic
Nearby Points of Interest: Mendenhall Glacier & Tongass
Nat'l Forest (Monument) - 1 mi • Glacier Bay cruise and
flightseeing (National Monument) - 30 mi • Admiralty Island
- Pack Creek (National Monument) - 20 mi
Phone: (1) 907-586-3737
Fax: (1) 907-586-1204
Toll Free: (1) 800-331-2711
Prospector Hotel
375 Whittier St 99801
prospect@ptialska.net http://www.prospectorhotel.com
64 Guest Rooms • 3 Meeting Rooms • Restaurant[s] • Pets
Allowed
Nearby Points of Interest: Centenial Hall (Convention
center) - 1 blk • Alaska State Museum (Museum) - 1 blk
Phone: (1) 907-586-2660
Fax: (1) 907-586-8315
Toll Free: (1) 800-544-0970
Westmark Baranof Hotel
127 N Franklin St 99801
wmbnf.fde@hollandamerica.com http://www.westmarkhotels.com
196 Guest Rooms • 7 Meeting Rooms • Restaurant[s]
Location: Near the state capitol, conv ctrr, shopping &
major tour attractions
Nearby Points of Interest:
Facts
Geostats
Passport/Visa Requirements: All U.S. citizens must have a
passport when traveling by air to or from Bermuda, Canada,
the Caribbean, Central and South America and Mexico.
Citizens of Canada, Mexico and the British Overseas
Territory of Bermuda also must have a passport or other
designated secure document to enter the U.S.
Passports are required for land crossings at the Canadian
and Mexican borders with the U.S. and for cruise passengers
returning to the U.S. from Mexico, the Caribbean, Canada or
Bermuda. Reconfirm travel-document requirements with your
carrier prior to departure.
Population: 30,690.
Time Zone: 9 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (-9 GMT).
Daylight Saving Time is observed from the second Sunday in
March to the first Sunday in November.
Voltage Requirements: 110 volts.
Telephone Codes: 907, area code for all of Alaska;
Money
Currency Exchange
Several banks have ATMs and offices near the cruise docks,
including Alaska Pacific Bank, First Bank, First National
Bank of Alaska and Wells Fargo Bank. Banks are generally
open Monday-Friday 10 am-5 pm.
Taxes
In the city and borough of Juneau, there is a 5% sales tax.
There is no state sales tax. The hotel occupancy tax rate is
12%.
Tipping
Tip 15% unless good service warrants more.
Weather
Temperatures in Juneau are typically mild, with an average
of 55 F/12 C. The warmest months are June-August when there
is 18 hours of daylight in June. Daytime temperatures range
from 44 F/6 C to 75 F/23 C—and sometimes even warmer. Winter
temperatures range in the 20s-30s F/-5 to 0 C and seldom dip
further than that. Juneau is in a temperate rain forest, so
you can expect rain—usually mist—any time of the year and
about 280 overcast days annually. Snow alternates with rain
during the winter.
What to Wear
Hypothermia is a threat any time of the year, so dress in
layers. It may be cool in the morning, but as the day goes
on, you may want to take off a jacket or sweater. Also, pack
a hat, waterproof shoes, a raincoat and some light clothing.
If you're hiking, take a hat and gloves—and a friend.
Juneau is casual, so you can attend the symphony in jeans
and boots. Business wear can be a bit more formal—take a
suit to be on the safe side.
Communication
Telephone
Like the wooly mammoth, public pay phones are becoming
extinct in Juneau, so you'll want a cell phone. Call your
local provider to verify you'll have service. Juneau has
ATT, GCI and Alaska Communications Systems (ACS); it does
not have Sprint or Verizon.
Internet Access
Wi-Fi service is available at a variety of locations,
including the downtown and valley locations of Heritage
Coffeehouse, Silverbow Cafe, McDonalds, University of Alaska
Southeast library, Auke Bay Harbor and at Southeast Waffle
Co. in Auke Bay. For a listing of Wi-Fi hot spots, see
http://www.superpages.com/cities/mtg/wifi/ak/juneau. Juneau
Public Library
Wi-Fi access is available at the downtown branch. Computers
are also available for use. Monday-Thursday 11 am-9 pm,
Friday-Sunday noon-5 pm. 292 Marine Way, Juneau. Phone
907-586-5249. http://www.juneau.org/library.
Universe Electronics
Offers Wi-Fi access, an international call station and photo
developing along with a cyber lounge with espresso and
computer stations. Open May-September 9 am-8 pm. 109 S.
Franklin St. (in the purple Elks Building), Juneau. Phone
907-463-4330.
Mail & Package Services
There are U.S. Post Offices downtown at the corner of South
Franklin and Front streets (near the clock) and in the
Federal Building, northwest of the cruise dock at 709 W.
Ninth St. Priority and Express Mail take longer than in the
lower 48 states.
Warning: Don't put your mail in the bear-proof garbage
containers—they look like mailboxes.
Newspapers & Magazines
The Juneau Empire provides local, national and international
news six days a week. The arts and entertainment section
comes out on Thursday. http://www.juneauempire.com.
The Empire also prints Capital City Weekly, a free weekly
paper listing events throughout Southeast Alaska.
http://www.capitalcityweekly.com.
National newspapers can be purchased at Hearthside Bookstore
or can be read at the library.
Transportation
Juneau International Airport (JNU) is about 9 mi/145 km
northwest of downtown. A cab ride to or from the city runs
US$20-$25. The airport has extended its runway safety area
and renovated the terminal. Phone 907-789-7821.
http://www.juneau.org/airport.
Consider renting a car in Juneau. It's an inexpensive way to
take in what the area has to offer, particularly if there
are several people in your group. Make reservations in
advance to ensure that a car will be waiting for you. Most
of the major U.S. rental car agencies have offices in Juneau
and at the airport. Expect to pay a minimum of US$65 a day
for a midsize vehicle late May through mid-September.
Downtown can be easily explored on foot. Capital Transit
public buses also circle the city and valley areas on the
half-hour 7 am-11:45 pm. (The buses don't serve the ferry
terminal.) Fares are US$1.50 adults; local seniors, disabled
people and children younger than 5 ride free. Taxis are
plentiful, particularly around the cruise terminals, and
most drivers offer guided tours. An hour-long tour costs
about US$55 for a group of up to seven persons, but rates
can be negotiated.
Ferries traveling the Inside Passage stop at Auke Bay, 14
mi/23 km northwest of Juneau. For Alaska Marine Highway
ferry information and reservations, check at Centennial Hall
Visitor Information Center. Phone 907-465-3941. Toll-free
800-642-0066 (Monday-Friday 7 am-5 pm). Or, phone the Auke
Bay Ferry terminal at 907-465-3940.
http://www.ferryalaska.com or
http://www.dot.state.ak.us/amhs/index.shtm.
For More Information
Recommended Guidebooks
The Milepost (Morris Communications). Published annually, it
has accurate directions of Alaska and Canada along the
Alaska Highway and beyond.
Ninety Short Walks Around Juneau by Mary Lou King (Taku
Conservation Society).
The Nature of Southeast Alaska: A Guide to Plants, Animals
and Habitats by Rita O'Clair (Alaska Northwest Books).
Additional Reading
The Alaska Almanac: Facts About Alaska (Alaska Northwest
Books).
Northern Flights by Gerry Bruder (Pruett Publishing).
The Native People of Alaska by Steve Langdon (Greatland
Graphics). A short introduction to Alaska Natives.
Images From the Inside Passage: An Alaskan Portrait by
Winter and Pond by Victoria Wyatt (University of Washington
Press).
Capitol Offense by Mike Doogan (Putnam). A murder mystery
set in Juneau.
The Only Kayak: Journey Into the Heart of Alaska by Kim
Heacox. The author kayaked Glacier Bay.
Juneau Centennial Cookbook by Jane Stewart. The book has
some great anecdotes.
Tourist Offices
Juneau Convention & Visitors Bureau
The main visitors center is in Centennial Hall. Open
May-September daily 8:30 am-5 pm, October-April
Monday-Friday 9 am-4 pm. 101 Egan Drive, Juneau. Phone
907-586-2201. Toll-free 888-581-2201.
http://www.traveljuneau.com.
Events
Calendar
Juneau's large arts and entertainment community ensures
there's always something happening.
Just as cabin fever sets in around February, Juneau crafters
design gowns and present a fashion show using "found"
materials—the Wearable Art show, Cirque de Pluie. Everything
from wood to salmon skins is fair game. http://www.jahc.org.
The weeklong Alaska Folk Festival in early April includes
performances, workshops and dances by entertainers from
Alaska and the Pacific Northwest, all of which are free.
http://akfolkfest.org.
The Juneau Jazz and Classics festival in late May also
attracts artists and musicians from the local area and the
Pacific Northwest (http://www.jazzandclassics.org). The
Spring King Salmon Derby also takes place in May.
http://www.springkingderby.org.
The biennial Celebration Native Cultural Conference occurs
in early June in even-numbered years with dances, crafts and
performances (http://www.sealaskaheritage.org). During Gold
Rush Days in late June, miners and loggers compete to climb
poles, throw axes and play tug-of-war, along with other
activities.
The town's Fourth of July celebration begins at midnight on
3 July with a fireworks presentation downtown over Gastineau
Channel. Parades and sandcastle-building contests are held
on the Fourth of July. The Frank Maier Marathon & Douglas
Island Half Marathon take place in late July. In fact, there
are runs all year long, including the Magnificent Mendenhall
Mud Puddle Meet, Only Fools Run At Midnight, Aukeman Sprint
Triathlon, and Nifty 50 race, among others.
http://www.southeastroadrunners.org.
The Golden North Salmon Derby takes place in mid-August,
with anglers competing for prizes in this annual fish-off.
http://www.goldennorthsalmonderby.org.
Alaska crafts from statewide artists are available during
Juneau's Public Market in late November. The year ends with
Gallery Walk in early December, a weekend of food and art.
http://www.jahc.org.
For more information about upcoming events in Juneau,
contact the Juneau Convention & Visitors Bureau (phone
907-586-2201; toll-free 888-581-2201;
http://www.traveljuneau.com) or the Juneau Arts and
Humanities Council (phone 907-586-2787;
http://www.jahc.org).
Ketchikan, Alaska
Overview
Introduction
Ketchikan, Alaska, is the site of an ancient Tlingit fish
camp and was a supply town during the gold rush. Ketchikan
is about 3 mi/5 km long but only a couple of blocks deep.
Located on the southwest shore of Revillagigedo Island, it's
the first port of call into Alaska, hence its nickname, The
First City.
Ketchikan is considered an Alaska Native cultural center for
the Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian tribes, as well as a
sportfishing mecca. The town generally gets more than 150
in/388 cm of rain annually, but don't let the liquid
sunshine (as residents prefer to call it) keep you
inside—Ketchikan is worth exploring in any kind of weather.
Must See or Do
Sights—Deer Mountain Tribal Hatchery and Eagle Center;
Saxman Native Village; Totem Bight State Historical Park for
restored totems; a tour of George Inlet Cannery.
Museums—Exhibits on Ketchikan's history and collectibles and
art at Tongass Historical Museum; Totem Heritage Center for
its collection of 19th-century totem poles; natural exhibits
at Southeast Alaska Discovery Center.
Memorable Meals—The fresh halibut-and-chips basket at The
Halibut Hole; Annabelle's Famous Keg and Chowder House for
the seafood chowder in a sourdough loaf; any salmon or
halibut entree at Heen Kahidi; the seafood or steaks at
Salmon Falls Resort.
Late Night—First City Saloon for billiards and 20 beers on
tap; the First City Grill for the original halibut taco;
live entertainment and chowder at the Fish Pirates Saloon.
Walks—A stroll through the Saxman Native Village; a hike on
the Deer Mountain Trail; the boat harbor and Tongass
Narrows; the Historic Ketchikan walking tour in downtown and
the West End.
Especially for Kids—The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show;
kayaking up Ketchikan Creek or fishing off Stedman Street
Bridge; the Bear Creek zipline by Alaska Canopy Adventures.
Geography
Ketchikan is only accessible by air or water. It is located
on Revillagigedo Island, in the heart of the
17-million-acre/6.9-million-hectare Tongass National Forest.
The city sits at the base of Deer Mountain and is encircled
by the Tongass Narrows waterway. Behm Canal encircles most
of the island.
Tongass Avenue is the main north-south highway, but its name
changes as it progresses through town—it is Stedman Street
at the base of Ketchikan Creek, Mill Street as it heads
toward the docks, Front Street along the downtown docks,
then Water Street north of Front Street.
A number of streets are really stairs or short passages. A
few blocks from the dock is the once-rowdy Creek Street, now
a tame boardwalk. It is really a walkway on pilings along
Ketchikan Creek, featuring quaint shops that were once
bordellos.
History
For generations, the proud and resourceful Tlingit and Haida
tribes spent the summer months near where Ketchikan now
stands. They caught salmon in the rivers and creeks, and
hunted bear and deer. There is almost no evidence of the
Tlingit and Haida being whalers.
Spanish and Russian explorers arrived in the 17th and 18th
centuries; the first Russians arrived in 1741 searching for
new travel routes, fur and opportunities for settlements and
political expansion. Their arrival gave rise to clashes.
The U.S. purchased the Alaska territory from Russia in 1867,
after Canada passed on the opportunity. Entrepreneurs Mike
Martin and George Clark opened a salmon saltery in Ketchikan
in 1886 along with a trading post and the city's first post
office.
The gold rush of 1898 brought thousands of newcomers to the
territory. Ketchikan became a major port of entry, supplying
goods and passage to the Yukon. After the gold rush,
commercial canning companies sprang up along the coast as
the demand for salmon grew. Logging also became a major
industry during World War II.
Today, Ketchikan relies on tourism as travelers flock to the
area for its untamed beauty.
Port Information
Location
Ketchikan is a popular first or last stop on many Alaskan
cruises, and as many as six cruise ships can dock there.
Ships have assigned dock space or they anchor in Tongass
Narrows, and passengers are tendered into town by smaller
craft. Most visitor attractions are within walking distance
of the docks.
Ketchikan's visitors center is on the docks at 131 Front St.
on Berth Two and has free walking-tour and kayaking maps,
brochures and tour-reservation booths. Public phones and
restrooms are also available there. The center is open daily
8 am-5 pm in summer and whenever ships are in port. Winter
hours (October-April) are Monday-Friday 8 am-5 pm. Phone
907-225-6166. Toll-free 800-770-3300.
http://www.visit-ketchikan.com.
A second visitors center is located near Berth Three and
also has pay phones and restrooms. Public restrooms are also
located near Berth Four in the Newtown area.
Shore Excursions
Consider signing up for the excursions offered by your ship.
They may not be the least expensive way to see the area, but
you won't have to waste your limited time making
arrangements yourself—and you won't have to worry about
missing the ship.
Shore excursions—and their prices—vary from cruise line to
cruise line. Check with your ship's shore-excursion staff or
your travel agent for additional information.
Potpourri
The town's main highway, Tongass Avenue, is 32 mi/50 km
long, but it has only four traffic lights.
At one time, Ketchikan had 13 canneries, earning it the
nickname "Salmon Capital of the World."
Visitors can still follow the Married Man's Trail from the
old red-light district back to town.
There are no igloos in southeast Alaska. They exist in the
northern part of the state.
Ketchikan is at 55 degrees latitude, the same as Malmo,
Sweden; the southern portion of Canada's Hudson Bay; and
Moscow.
Ketchikan, Alaska's rain capital, boasts an average annual
rainfall of 155 in/394 cm. In 2005, the town was one of the
wettest spots on earth after accumulating 200 in/508 cm of
rain. A "drought" occurred in 1982 when only 81 in/206 cm of
rain was recorded.
Ketchikan has the world's largest collection of standing
totem poles at Saxman Village, Totem Bight and the Totem
Heritage Center.
Ketchikan comes from the Tlingit word Kitsch-kan, which can
be translated as "spread wings of a prostrate eagle" or
"Kitsch's home." There is no record of any area chief being
named Kitsch.
Mike Martin and George Clark originally purchased the town
site next to the creek from a native named Paper Nose
Charlie, according to the original deeds. But Paper Nose
Charlie was not even a member of the local Tlingit tribe, so
it's not clear how he had the authority to sell the town
site in the first place.
See & Do
Sightseeing
Stop by the visitors center on the dock to pick up the
Historic Ketchikan walking-tour map and guide to area
attractions. The 2-mi/3-km tour is an excellent way to see
many of Ketchikan's sites. Even if you stray from the map,
don't worry: The town isn't big enough to get lost in. The
city has also put up signage to make it even easier for
visitors to find sites of interest and then return to the
docks.
The walking tour will take you past the turreted,
Victorian-style Burkhardt House; the 1954 tunnel on Front
Street, which claims to be the only tunnel that you can go
over, around and through; and E.C. Phillips & Sons, one of
the few remaining cold-storage and fish-processing plants in
the city.
You might also want to drop by the Southeast Alaska
Discovery Center, one block inland from the cruise docks. It
provides interpretive exhibits about the rain forest,
wildlife and native cultures, a film about the Tongass
National Forest, and information on public lands, area
hiking, kayaking and local ecosystems.
Along with the prosperity brought by salmon and mining came
a red-light district built on the pilings above Ketchikan
Creek. The community had as many as 30 bordellos before
prostitution became illegal in 1953. Most of the women moved
on; one who didn't was Dolly Arthur, whose bordello is now a
museum, Dolly's House.
Strolling along the rest of Creek Street and checking out
the various shops can be great fun. There are also a few
cafes where you can eat outside if the weather is nice. Or
just hang over the railings and watch the fish and kayakers
go by. While you're on Creek Street, catch the tram up to
Cape Fox Lodge. From there you'll be treated to one of the
best views of Ketchikan.
Historic Sites
George Inlet Cannery
Built in 1913 as the Libby, McNeill & Libby Cannery, it
employed labor from China and the Philippines. Closed in
1958, it reopened in 1996 as a historic landmark, with
guided tours of the early cannery operations and equipment
available to cruise-ship passengers only. Open
May-September. Tours are US$48 through local tour operators.
13194 S. Tongass Highway (12 mi/19 km south of downtown),
Ketchikan. Phone 907-247-1840.
Saxman Native Village
This village, named after a Presbyterian teacher who was
lost at sea, has a collection of 24 totems planted in the
ground. In addition to the poles, there's a cedar replica of
the Beaver Clan House and a carving shed. Open
Monday-Friday. Free admission. Tours, demonstrations and
performances have fees. 2706 S. Tongass Highway, Saxman (2.3
mi/3.7 km south of town), Ketchikan. Phone 907-225-4166.
Totem Poles
Ketchikan has one of the world's largest collections of
totem poles. Cedar totem poles are symbolic storytellers,
characterized by creatures such as eagles, killer whales,
beavers, bears and wolves. They are carved for a variety of
reasons—from mortuary poles that hold ashes of the deceased
to celebrations. During the early 1900s, as Alaska Natives
moved closer to towns where employment could be found, whole
villages were abandoned and the totems were left. In 1938,
the U.S. Forest Service began a rescue program to preserve
and repair many of these monuments.
Each pole has a name, such as Thunderbird and Whale, Man
Wearing Bear Hat, Sea Monster Pole and Halibut Pole. Two
parks outside of town feature large collections of totem
poles: Saxman Native Village, about 2.5 mi/4 km south of
town; and Totem Bight State Park, about 10 mi/17 km north of
town. Many of the totem poles around Ketchikan are replicas;
older poles require regular maintenance and repair.
Museums
Dolly's House Museum
This popular bordello from 1903-53 was owned by Creek
Street's famous madam, Dolly Arthur. The distinctive
sea-green house with red trim can't be missed. Costumed
ladies stand at the front door and the second-floor window
beckoning visitors in for a tour. May-September daily. US$5.
24 Creek St., Ketchikan. Phone 907-225-6329.
http://www.margaretdeefholts.com/dollyarthur.html.
Southeast Alaska Discovery Center
Explore the exhibits on Native culture, the rain forest,
natural resources and ecosystems. The museum is also an
information center for camping facilities, outdoor
activities and public lands. Gift shop, theater and
bookstore on-site. Open May-September Monday-Friday 8 am-5
pm, Saturday and Sunday 8 am-4 pm; October-April
Thursday-Sunday 10 am-4 pm. US$5, free for children age 15
and younger. 50 Main St., Ketchikan. Phone 907-228-6220.
http://www.fs.fed.us/r10/tongass/districts/discoverycenter.
Tongass Historical Museum
Stop by this museum to learn about the town's fishing
heritage. Exhibits on Ketchikan history, Native culture and
art rotate every three months. May-September daily 8 am-5
pm; October-April Tuesday-Friday 1-5 pm, Saturday 10 am-4
pm. Admission US$2. 629 Dock St. (in the Library Building,
near the intersection of Dock and Bawden streets),
Ketchikan. Phone 907-225-5600.
http://www.city.ketchikan.ak.us/departments/museums/tongass.html.
Totem Heritage Center
This museum collects and preserves totem poles retrieved
from abandoned Alaska Native villages. The center contains
33 poles and pole fragments, many of which are more than 100
years old. May-September daily 8 am-5 pm (a 15-minute tour
is available), October-April Monday-Friday 1-5 pm. US$5. 601
Deermount St., Ketchikan. Phone 907-225-5900.
http://www.city.ketchikan.ak.us/departments/museums/totem.html.
Nature
Pods of orca whales go into Tongass Narrows for salmon—tour
boats often encounter them along with seal colonies on
rocks. Floatplane tours flying to and from Misty Fjords
often spot whales moving along Behm Canal. Bears usually
visit streams where salmon go to spawn during early-morning
hours or late afternoon. Occasionally, they are seen on the
Creek Street boardwalk. Misty Fjords National Monument
The sheer rock walls, towering above coves, are
overwhelming. Visitors can opt for a flightseeing day trip
over Misty Fjords or boat tours. During these tours, you may
see bald eagles in the air, brown and black bears on the
ground, and whales and sea lions in the ocean.
Ketchikan-Misty Fjords Ranger District, 3031 Tongass Ave.,
Ketchikan. Phone 907-225-2148.
http://www.fs.fed.us/r10/tongass/districts/ketchikan/kmrdintro.shtml.
Neighborhoods & Districts
Newtown
This was the first part of Ketchikan to develop after
downtown in the early 1900s. It features many historic
buildings and older stores, as well as a working harbor and
colorful live-aboard boats.
Nobb Hill
The area features many of Ketchikan's stateliest homes from
the early 1900s. The roads are steep, but the views are
worth it.
Stedman-Thomas
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it was
once the home to Alaska Natives and other minorities who
worked in the canneries. It features many historic buildings
and is located between downtown and Thomas Basin.
Thomas Basin
This marina was a baseball field until the 1920s. The city
installed pilings and expanded it over the mudflats. There
are viewing areas, decks and picnic tables around the
marina—worth the walk past the red-and-white Potlatch
building and along the breakwater. Often, eagles flock
there. Thomas Basin is Ketchikan's second-largest boat
harbor, home to a portion of the local fishing fleet. At the
end of Ketchikan Creek, Ketchikan.
Parks & Gardens
City Park
This park was once home to holding ponds for salmon in the
early 1950s. It is now a tranquil spot with a fountain,
brooks, benches and picnic tables. At the northern end of
Ketchikan Creek, Ketchikan.
Eagle Park
This park features Thundering Wings, a huge eagle by
renowned Tlingit carver Nathan Jackson. Front Street (near
the docks), Ketchikan.
Totem Bight State Historical Park
This park has 14 poles, most of which are more than 50 years
old. You can also stop by a Tlingit clan house. To reach the
site from the North Tongass Highway at Mile 9.9, walk along
a short path through the rain forest to a clearing covered
with wildflowers. The totems and the scenery are truly
spectacular—if you really want to appreciate the view, take
along a picnic lunch and spend an hour or more there. Kiosks
near poles interpret the carvings. Free, but donations are
accepted. Ketchikan Ranger Station, 9883 N. Tongass Highway,
Ketchikan. Phone 907-247-8574.
http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/totembgh.htm.
Whale Park
Designed in the shape of a whale, this park is full of
flowers and contains the Chief Kyan Totem Pole (a replica of
a pole first erected in Ketchikan in the 1880s). It is also
home to the antique Billingsley Clock—said to be the oldest
timepiece in the city, it still keeps accurate time. The
clock once stood by the Knox Brothers Curios Store on
Mission and Tongass streets. Mill Street, downtown,
Ketchikan.
Other Options
Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show
The show is a rowdy re-creation of logging competitions from
Alaska's past. You can watch chopping, sawing, axe-throwing,
pole-climbing and log-rolling events from a heated, covered
facility. The hour-long performances take place
May-September three to four times a day, depending on the
number of ships in port. US$35 adults, US$17.50 children
ages 3-12, free for children age 2 and younger. 420 Spruce
Mill Way (behind the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center),
Ketchikan. Phone 907-225-9050. Toll-free 888-320-9049.
http://www.lumberjacksports.com.
Recreation
Ketchikan fishing is legendary with all five species of
salmon plus halibut, red snapper, cod, shrimp and crab.
Freshwater fly-fishing is also popular locally and on Prince
of Wales Island.
Salmon lure eagles, bears and other wildlife, so a hike
through the Tongass National Forest may provide glimpses of
wildlife and more than 250 species of birds.
Kayak the Tongass Narrows around islands or through majestic
Misty Fjords National Monument, a northern version of the
Grand Canyon.
Bicycling
Maps and information on bike trails are provided at the
Southeast Alaska Discovery Center at 50 Main St. (phone
888-320-9049). You can also find information and maps at the
visitors centers at 131 Front St. and Berth Three. Phone
800-770-3300.
Bird Watching
During salmon season, white-tailed, white (bald)-headed
eagles are everywhere. With their distinctive call, they'll
gather in trees, fly around fishing boats and processing
plants, and perch on jetties. Bird-watchers won't want to
miss seeing them dive and seize prey out of the water.
Other birds such as ravens, hummingbirds, Steller's jays and
Canada geese are abundant in the area. The Southeast Alaska
Discovery Center offers comprehensive brochures, guides and
maps for viewing birds. Deer Mountain Tribal Hatchery and
Eagle Center
The center features scenic paths around what were once the
native holding ponds for salmon, and a beautiful fountain.
Photographers and bird-watchers can get up close to eagles,
and visitors can feed the salmon that will be released to
the wild on reaching adulthood. Sample Alaska smoked salmon
in the Interpretive Center. Open May-September 8 am-4:30 pm.
Admission US$12; free for children younger than 12. 1158
Salmon Road (near Ketchikan Creek and City Park), Ketchikan.
Phone 907-228-5530. Toll-free 800-252-5158.
http://www.kictribe.org/businesses/dmthec/index.html#tours.
Boating & Sailing
Southeast Sea Kayaks
This company rents kayaks for US$49-$59 per day. Guided
trips in Ketchikan harbor (about three hours) start at US$94
adults. For a wilderness experience, kayak in Orcas Cove, a
20-minute boat ride from Ketchikan, and fly through Misty
Fjords in a seaplane (a five-hour trip for US$399). 1621
Tongass Ave., Suite 101B, Ketchikan. Phone 907-225-1258.
Toll-free 800-287-1607. http://www.kayakketchikan.com.
Fishing
Because of all its canneries, Ketchikan bills itself as the
"Salmon Capital of the World." Exploring the waters around
the town while casting for fish is an exhilarating
experience. Several charter firms offer trips. The visitors
center has a complete list of operators. Expect to pay about
US$150 per person for a half-day trip (four-person minimum).
Fishing licenses cost extra: US$25 per day for nonresidents,
and US$10 for a king-salmon sticker (if you catch a king but
don't have a sticker, you'll have to release it).
Processing of caught fish is done at dockside for an
additional charge (by the pound) and is shipped via FedEx to
whatever address you provide. Knudson Cove Marina
This marina manages 19 fishing charter boats. 407 Knudson
Cove Road, Ketchikan. Phone 907-247-8500. Toll-free
800-528-2486. http://www.knudsoncove.com.
Stedman Street Bridge
This spot over Ketchikan Creek is a great fishing spot for
adults and children. During the season, visitors can rent
poles and get a fishing license from a little blue shop next
to the bridge. Fish can be processed and vacuum-packed for
shipment home.
Hiking & Walking
There are plenty of opportunities for hiking in the
surrounding Tongass National Forest, although most trails
are not accessible from downtown. There is a public trail
and bike path along Ketchikan's waterfront from downtown to
the village of Saxman, a distance of approximately 2 mi/4
km, and the path has been extended out to Mountain Point, an
additional 3 mi/5 km.
Most other trails require transportation or a guide, so
check the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center at 50 Main St.
for a map and the names of tour guides. Phone 907-228-6220.
http://www.fs.fed.us/r10/tongass/recreation/trails/traillist.shtml.
SEAtrails also lists seven Ketchikan trails online, with
access points, elevation gain, distance, difficulty and
maps. http://www.seatrails.org/com_ketchikan/index.htm. Deer
Mountain Trail
The 3-mi/5-km Deer Mountain Trail begins at the base of Deer
Mountain (behind City Park). It's about a four-hour hike.
The trail is very steep, so wear your hiking boots. Also
take insect repellent and water with you. The first overlook
is about 1 mi/1.5 km up—you can always turn around there
after you're done gaping at the incredible views.
Rainbird Trail
This trail is located less than a mile/kilometer from
downtown. It begins and ends on the Third Avenue bypass
road. It is not as strenuous as the Deer Mountain Trail and
much shorter, but offers spectacular views of both downtown
and Ketchikan's West End. The beginning and the end of the
trail are fairly steep, but the majority of the trail is
flat and easy to walk. A map of the trail is available at
the visitors center.
Ward Lake Trail and Perseverance Lake Trail
One of Ketchikan's most scenic trails is the
1.3-mi/2.1-km-long trail at Ward Lake, which goes through
old-growth forest. It is approximately 8 mi/13 km from
downtown on the North Tongass Highway. Across the road is
the 2.3-mi/3.7-km Perseverance Lake trail, great for berry
picking in late July and August. Make noise to alert bears
you are in the area.
Other Options
Alaska Canopy Adventures
Zip through the rain forest from 10 treetop platforms on
eight dual ziplines and cross three suspension bridges (sky
bridges) for a unique perspective on nature on the
Rainforest Canopy and Zipline Expedition. Another adventure,
the Bear Creek Zipline, welcomes families. US$179 per person
for each tour. 4085 Tongass Ave., Suite 201, Ketchikan.
Phone 907-225-5503. http://www.alaskacanopy.com.
Nightlife
Ketchikan once had more than a dozen bars in its downtown
area alone. Most were kept going by the large numbers of
fishermen and loggers in town during the summer. But with
those industries in decline and tourism growing, economics
have driven most of the bars out. There are still a few
longtime bars left, such as the Arctic Bar in Newtown, but
Ketchikan's days as the nightlife capital of Alaska are
gone.
Nightlife in Ketchikan can include anything from pizza at My
Office Sports Bar and Godfather's Pizza to dancing at First
City Saloon. Nights are long in winter, and many bars are
open late.
During the off-season, the Saxman Native Village Bear Clan
House hosts open-mike nights. Anyone in the community who
wants to perform can do so. Admission is US$5 and tickets
must be purchased in advance from the Ketchikan Area Arts
and Humanities Council.
Bars, Taverns & Pubs
Arctic Bar
For 70 years, the Arctic has been one of Ketchikan's
watering holes. It has a covered deck, the Burger Queen
grill next door and Paula—bartender, owner and raconteur.
Paula was named the "heart of Ketchikan" by the Ketchikan
Visitors Bureau. 509 Water St., Ketchikan. Phone
907-225-4709. http://www.arcticbar.com.
First City Saloon and First City Grill
This bar features 20 beers on tap, a dance floor, TV
screens, pool tables and live entertainment. The First City
Grill serves the original halibut taco. Locals like this
place. Nightly till 2 am. No cover. 830 Water St.,
Ketchikan. Phone 907-225-1494.
Fish Pirates Saloon
Decorated with fish and cannery memorabilia, this bar serves
seafood, including good fish and chips, chowders and salads.
It also has live entertainment. Open Monday-Friday 11 am-5
pm, Thursday-Saturday 9 pm-1 am. 76 Front St., Ketchikan.
Phone 907-225-1600.
Heen Kahidi Lounge
A panoramic view and mud pie for dessert are two of the
benefits at this upscale bar located in the Cape Fox Lodge.
Open 11 am-10 pm. 800 Venetia Way, Ketchikan. Phone
907-225-8001. Toll-free 866-225-8001.
http://www.capefoxlodge.com.
My Office Sports Bar and Godfather's Pizza
This former bowling alley houses a bar decorated with
bowling memorabilia, seven TVs and pool tables. Godfather's
Pizza, which is alcohol-free, is next door in Suite 102.
2050 Sea Level Drive, Suite 103, Ketchikan. Phone
907-225-0690.
Sourdough Bar and Liquor Store
This smoke-free sports bar on the dock has a great marine
photo gallery. 301 Front St., Ketchikan. Phone 907-225-2217.
Performing Arts
Programs include performances by traveling orchestras,
opera, folk music, ballet and dance companies.
The Monthly Grind is a local talent show that occurs the
third Saturday of the month at the Saxman Tribal House
September-May. Admission is US$5 but will be refunded if you
bring a dessert. Contact the Ketchikan Area Arts and
Humanities Council for more information at 907-225-2211.
The Haida Descendant Dancers practice on the second Friday
of the month May-September 6:30-7:30 pm at Totem Bight State
Park Clan House. Practices are open to the public. No
charge.
Dance
Ketchikan Theatre Ballet
Puts on three programs annually. Performances take place at
Kayhi Auditorium at the Ketchikan Area Arts and Humanities
Council. 330 Main St., Ketchikan. Phone 907-225-9311.
http://www.ktbdance.com.
Music
Ketchikan Community Concert Band and Concert Choir
Performances take place in the fall and spring. Phone
907-225-3650.
Theater
The First City Players
This group offers Broadway-style productions at the Kayhi
High School Auditorium and other venues. 2610 Fourth Ave.,
Ketchikan. Phone 907-225-4792.
http://www.firstcityplayers.org.
Venues
Ketchikan Area Arts and Humanities Council and Main Street
Gallery
Shows take place throughout the year. 330 Main St.,
Ketchikan. Phone 907-225-2211. http://www.ketchikanarts.org.
Spectator Sports
Locals gather on Wednesday afternoon to watch the sailboat
races of the Ketchikan Yacht Club located in Thomas Basin
Marina on Tongass Narrows. Phone 907-225-3262.
http://www.ketchikanyachtclub.org.
In the winter, local high school sports dominate. In the
summer, Ketchikan has five athletic fields that are booked
by local baseball, softball and soccer groups. Contact the
Gateway Recreation Center at 601 Schoenbar Road for
schedules. Phone 907-225-9579.
Shopping
There's a wide variety of shopping in Ketchikan, especially
for Alaska-made items. The best shops are along Front Street
and on nearby Dock, Mission, Mill, Spruce Mill and Main
streets. Creek Street, off Stedman Street in the old
red-light district, is home to many quaint stores.
Visitors should keep in mind that some of the Alaskan-themed
items for sale are imported from Asian countries. However,
Ketchikan does offer excellent Alaska Native and native-made
goods such as carvings, jewelry, pottery and crafts. There
are also excellent books written by Alaskans about totem
poles, the area's history and native culture, as well as
cookbooks.
If you are purchasing local arts or crafts, you should look
for a little silver-and-black sticker on the item. The one
with a polar bear designates the item was made in Alaska;
the one with a hand indicates the item was made by an Alaska
Native. Although this is meant to guarantee the item is an
Alaskan original, not all Alaskan artists pay to have the
stickers on their items. Often, a store proprietor will tell
you about the artist of a piece you admire, or the item will
have a tag with information about the artist.
Shopping Hours: During cruise-ship season (May-September),
most shops are open daily or when cruise ships are in port.
The rest of the year, hours are generally Monday-Saturday 9
am-5 pm.
Bookstores
Parnassus Books
This cozy bookstore has been in the same location for
decades. It carries an excellent selection of books on
Alaskan history, culture, cooking, cards, music and gifts,
as well as children's books. 5 Creek St. (Star Building,
upstairs), Ketchikan. Phone 907-225-7690.
http://www.ketchikanbooks.com.
Galleries
Ketchikan has more master carvers than anywhere else in
Alaska. You can see artists at work in their shops at the
House of Haida (728 Water St., Suite 101; phone
907-247-4438); Crazy Wolf Studio (607 Mission St.; phone
907-225-9653); Ketchikan Carvers at the Creek (28 Creek St.;
phone 907-225-3018); and Our Living Legends (331 Stedman
St.; phone 907-225-2266). Arctic Spirit Gallery
Located under the welcome arch, this gallery sells totem
poles, masks, scrimshaw art, carvings, bentwood boxes, and
Northwest Coast and Alaska Native baskets. 310 Mission St.,
Ketchikan. Phone 907-225-6626. http://www.arcticgallery.com.
Crazy Wolf Studio
This studio carries items by Tsimshian artist Ken Decker.
His specialty is drums, along with paddles, carved argillite
figures, totem poles and bentwood boxes. Other local artists
are also featured. 607 Mission St., Ketchikan. Phone
907-225-9653. http://www.crazywolfstudio.com.
Exploration Gallery
Located at the entrance to Creek Street, this gallery
features Alaskan and locally made pottery, as well as
jewelry, maps and prints. Cahoots Coffee Shop is also
on-site, serving specialty soups and sandwiches. 105 Stedman
St. (by Whale Park), Ketchikan. Phone 907-225-4278.
http://www.explorationgallery.com.
Ketchikan's Carver at the Creek
Tlingit artist Norman Jackson sells masks, wood carvings,
jewelry, ivory and baskets. 28 Creek St., Lower, Ketchikan.
Phone 907-225-3018. http://www.normanjackson.com.
Scanlon Gallery
This frame shop is one of the finest art galleries in the
city, carrying the works of artists such as Rie Munoz and
Barbara Lavellee with their colorful depictions of Alaskan
life, as well as glass, books, clothing and jewelry. 318
Mission St., Ketchikan. Phone 907-247-4730.
http://www.scanlongallery.com.
Soho Coho
This contemporary arts-and-crafts gallery is the
headquarters of artist Ray Troll, famous for his fantastical
fish art. The shop also carries the works of other local
artists in jewelry, photography and handmade crafts. 5 Creek
St. (Star Building), Ketchikan. Phone 907-225-5954.
The Point
Alaska artist Terry Pyles shows local and regional art as
well as his own paintings. The gallery also sells beads,
yarn, coffee and specialty soups year-round in the coffee
shop. 25 Jefferson Way, No. 102, Ketchikan. Phone
907-225-2858. http://www.alaskanart.net.
Shopping Areas
Ketchikan Plaza
The mall has a Safeway Foods, Sears, McDonald's, Alaska
Indoor Sports, a beauty salon, Wells Fargo Bank and a
variety of gift shops. 2417 Tongass Ave., Ketchikan. Phone
907-225-7000. http://www.ketchikanplaza.com.
Salmon Landing Market
The market features shops that sell quilts, clothing, tea,
Alaska souvenirs and T-shirts. There are also restaurants
and a coffee shop. The south end of the docks, downtown,
Ketchikan. Phone 907-225-3289.
Tongass Trading Co.
This is one of Ketchikan's oldest businesses. Two downtown
stores are located on opposite street corners at Dock and
Front streets. They carry a variety of clothing, from
T-shirts, seasonal fashions and formal wear to all-weather
sports gear and equipment, luggage, salmon products,
collectibles and souvenirs. Additional locations include
Tongass Trading Furniture Store at 2324 Tongass Ave. and the
Marine Outdoor store at 2521 Marine Works Way. 201 Dock St.
and 312 Dock St., Ketchikan. Phone 907-225-5101. Toll-free
800-235-5102. http://www.tongasstrading.com.
Specialty Stores
Bronze Maiden Seafoods
Recognized by the U.S. Commerce Association for quality
products, this is an A-Z seafood shop, featuring every kind
of local fresh seafood. It also provides recipes, and it
packages and ships its products. A specialty is Silver
Lining Seafoods smoked salmon pate. Open year-round. 1414
Tongass Ave., Ketchikan. Phone 907-225-2646.
http://www.bronzemaidenseafoods.com.
Forget-Me-Not Sweater Shoppe
Stay warm with sweaters, gloves and hats from around the
world and qiviut (musk-ox wool) scarves sold in this locally
owned shop. Open year-round. 716 Totem Way, Ketchikan. Phone
907-225-3667. http://www.forgetmenotsweaters.com.
Poker Creek Gold
This shop sells mining artifacts, Alaskan gold nuggets,
minerals and gold-nugget jewelry. You can even buy a chunk
of gold. 18 Creek St., Ketchikan. Phone 907-225-3252.
Royal Treasures
This shop features a large collection of Russian-made items,
such as hand-painted nesting dolls, Faberge-style egg
pendants, amber jewelry and Lomonosov porcelain. 55 Main
St., Ketchikan. Phone 907-225-8042.
Itinerary
Day Trips
To Prince of Wales Island. This is the third-largest island
in the U.S. It has small fishing villages, logging camps and
Alaska Native communities. Evidence suggests that the island
has been inhabited for a very long time: Human bones dating
back more than 9,000 years have been found. Today, it offers
access to world-class fishing and hunting areas and has
several totem parks.
El Capitan caves is another highlight, part of the island's
massive karst (eroded limestone) cave system. Prince of
Wales Island is part of a volcanic chain, and there are hot
springs near the caves (too hot for swimming). Logging on
the island has been restricted, and visitors will see
clearings where forests are slowly returning. Marble
quarries exist from the island's mining days. A number of
lodges offer sportfishing packages. For more information,
contact the Prince of Wales Chamber of Commerce. Phone
907-755-2626. http://www.princeofwalescoc.org.
You can get there via a 25- to 45-minute flight, or a
three-hour Inter-Island Ferry Authority ride. US$40.70
one-way, US$19.80 children. The ferry leaves Ketchikan at
3:30 pm, arriving at Hollis on Prince of Wales Island at
6:30 pm. It returns to Ketchikan the next day at 8 am. Phone
866-308-4848. http://www.interislandferry.com.
Local Tours
Flightseeing tours of Misty Fiords National Monument,
LeConte Glacier (near Petersburg), the Stikine River (near
Wrangell), Hyder on the border with British Columbia, and
Prince of Wales Island are popular. Among those offering the
trips are:
Island Wings Air Service
1243 Tongass Ave., Ketchikan. Phone 907-225-2444. Toll-free
888-854-2444. http://www.islandwings.com.
Misty Fjords Air & Outfitting
Narrated floatplane tours of Misty Fjords National Monument.
During the 90-minute tour, you'll see spectacular scenery
with snow-capped mountains, sheer cliffs, waterfalls and
lakes, mountain goats, orcas and other wildlife. US$229 per
person. 1716 S. Tongass Highway, Ketchikan. Phone
907-225-5155. Toll-free 877-228-4656.
http://www.mistyfjordsair.com.
Pacific Airways
Daily scheduled service to Craig on Prince of Wales Island,
US$135 one way or US$270 round-trip. A 90-minute trip
through Misty Fjords is US$199 per person with a four-person
minimum. 1935 Tongass Ave., Ketchikan. Phone 907-225-3500.
Toll-free 877-360-3500. http://www.flypacificairways.com.
Promech Air
In August and September, this operator features a bear-watch
trip to Neets Bay Wilderness. 1515 Tongass Ave., Ketchikan.
Phone 907-225-3845. Toll-free 800-860-3845.
http://www.promechair.com.
SeaWind Aviation
1809 Tongass Ave., Ketchikan. Phone 907-225-1203.
http://www.seawindaviation.com.
Southeast Aviation
Flights range US$99-$475. 1249 Tongass Ave., Ketchikan.
Phone 907-225-2900. Toll-free 888-359-6478.
http://www.southeastaviation.com.
Tacquan Air
Expect to pay US$109-$425. 4085 Tongass Ave., Ketchikan.
Phone 907-225-8800. Toll-free 800-770-8800.
http://www.taquanair.com.
In addition to flightseeing tours, bush runs are also
available. Tours include just you and the pilot taking
supplies and mail to outlying towns on the border with
Canada or Prince of Wales Island. Available through Tacquan
Air (phone 907-225-8800) or Pacific Airways (phone
877-360-3500).
A variety of reputable tour operators offer excursions in
Ketchikan. Be aware that because Ketchikan is so small, the
cruise lines may monopolize some operators. Most tour
operators have sales booths and courtesy phones in the
visitors center, which also has lists of operators who offer
guided fishing, wildlife and other tours. Alaska Amphibious
Tours
This company offers sightseeing tours of the city and harbor
in "duck" vehicles that can drive on land and float in the
water. Tours last 90 minutes. US$38 adults. 5191 Borch St.,
Ketchikan. Phone 907-225-9899. Toll-free 866-341-3825.
http://www.akduck.com.
Alaska Hummer Adventures
This company offers tours of Ketchikan's scenery via unusual
modes of transportation. US$149 per hour. 5191 Borch St.,
Ketchikan. Phone 907-225-9899. Toll-free 866-253-8257.
http://www.akhummer.com.
Alaska Travel Adventures
Take a mountainous back-roads tour, canoe on a lake in the
rain forest or take a nature hike. Snacks included.
May-September. US$89-$149 adults, US$59-$99 children age 12
and younger. Ward Cove, Ketchikan. Phone 907-247-5295.
Toll-free 800-323-5757. http://www.bestofalaskatravel.com.
Bering Sea Crab Fishermen's Tour
Board the M/V Aleutian Ballad, featured in season two of
TV's The Deadliest Catch, and watch as the crew demonstrates
the use of commercial fishing gear to catch crabs, octopus,
sharks and prawns. The three-and-a-half-hour tour is
Ketchikan's No. 1 attraction. Wheelchair accessible. Berth
Three at the Main Cruise Ship Dock, Ketchikan. Phone
360-642-4935. Toll-free 888-239-3816.
http://56degreesnorth.com.
Experience Alaska Tours
Take the Wilderness Exploration & Crab Feed tour and travel
by boat to the crabbing grounds. Learn about Alaska's
crabbing industry and help haul pots filled with Dungeness
crabs. Enjoy a crab feast back on land at George Inlet
Lodge. A Mountain Top Flightseeing and Crab Feast tour is
also available. These tours are sold on cruise ships.
US$159-$237. Tours leave from Tongass Narrows, 11728 S.
Tongass Highway, Ketchikan. Phone 907-225-6077.
http://www.catchcrabs.com.
Ketchikan Outdoors
For the adventurer, there's a two-and-a-half-hour,
self-piloted Zodiac tour of Ketchikan's waterfront and
Tongass Narrows. Gear and a guide provided. Other options
include a four-hour excursion and overnight camping. 714
Water St., Ketchikan. Phone 907-617-2716 or 907-617-1820.
http://www.ketchikanoutdoors.com.
Lighthouse Totems and Eagles Excursion
This water-related tour features sightseeing in Tongass
Narrows, Loggerville (a floating logging camp), Ward Cove
and the historic Guard Island Lighthouse at the north end of
Tongass Narrows. The three-hour tour also features water
views of some of the mansions on the Ketchikan rural
waterfront. 11380 Alderwood St. N., Ketchikan. Phone
907-225-6919. http://www.lighthouseexcursion.com.
Panhandle Motorcycle Adventures
Tour the area with a guide on a Harley Davidson. US$249
driver, US$149 passenger for a three-hour tour. Rentals are
US$90 per hour, two-hour minimum, with insurance. Phone
907-617-6251. http://www.panhandlemoto.com.
Rainforest Wildlife Sanctuary
This tour and sighteeing location features a narrated city
tour and a nature walk at Herring Cove (8 mi/13 km south of
downtown) along a salmon-filled estuary where bears and
eagles feed on returning salmon in August and September. It
also features a tour of a historic lumber mill and Native
carving demonstrations. Prices start at US$80 adults, US$50
children. Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary, 116 Wood Road (8
mi/13 km south of downtown), Ketchikan. Phone 907-225-5503.
http://www.alaskarainforest.com.
Seahorse Ventures
Tour Ketchikan for 45 minutes in a horse-drawn trolley
during summer. 2878 S. Tongass (tours leave from the cruise
ship dock downtown), Ketchikan. Phone 907-225-3672.
http://www.horsetrolleytours.com.
Day Plans
To help you make the most of your time in Ketchikan, we've
designed the following itineraries.
PLAN A
Go Fish
Follow Ketchikan Creek up to City Park to the Deer Mountain
Tribal Hatchery and Eagle Center. Take the tour. Afterward,
try the amphibious-vehicle ride for a land-and-sea tour of
Ketchikan. Grab lunch and walk down to the docks where the
charter boats come in and unload the catch. Spend the
afternoon fishing off Stedman Street Bridge. (Don't forget
to purchase a license.) Then take the tram to Cape Fox Lodge
for a spectacular view of Ketchikan and Tongass Narrows with
dinner at Heen Kahidi.
PLAN B
Misty Fjords Majesty
Take a leisurely boat ride to Misty Fjords National Monument
(about five hours). The captain will show you sea lions,
harbor seals, orca whales and eagle nests. The tour includes
a lecture by a naturalist and a gourmet lunch. Spend your
afternoon exploring the park. On your return, catch a sunset
at The Narrows Inn and Marina with an amber brew and fresh
crab legs.
PLAN C
Native History and Natural Scenery
Spend the morning at the Totem Heritage Center, which houses
19th-century totem poles from remote Alaska Native villages.
Afterward, hit the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center with
its award-winning film and exhibits on native culture and
natural resources. Grab lunch at Annabelle's Famous Keg and
Chowder House. Rent a car for the drive to Totem Bight Park
and Settler's Cove on the northern end of Ketchikan. Spend
the afternoon hiking up Perseverance Trail at Ward Cove.
Finish your day with an outstanding meal at the Salmon Falls
Resort.
Dining
Dining Overview
As would be expected, king crab, salmon and halibut are
Ketchikan's seafood specialties, and they're always fresh.
You can also find home-style chowders, cannery bread, wraps
and great cheeseburgers. Most of the popular restaurants are
within walking distance of downtown.
Coffee is big in Ketchikan. Kiosks along Tongass Avenue
offer drive-through services. Favorite companies include
Refiner's Roast (http://www.refinersroast.com) and Raven's
Brew (http://www.ravensbrew.com).
Expect to pay within these general guidelines for a dinner
for one, not including drinks, tax or tip: $ = less than
US$10; $$ = US$10-$25; $$$ = US$26-$40; and $$$$ = more than
US$40.
Local & Regional
Annabelle's Restaurant
This 1920s-style roadhouse cafe is a favorite with locals.
Wall-sized murals of Ketchikan's red-light district decorate
the place, along with a 24-ft/8-m mahogany bar. It serves a
hearty seafood chowder as well as fresh king crab and
steaks. Try the sourdough pancakes or the steamer (seafood)
basket, if it's later in the day. Both are house
specialties, as is the home-style cannery bread. Open for
lunch and dinner. Reservations recommended for lunch in the
summer. $$-$$$. Most major credit cards. 326 Front St. (in
the Gilmore Hotel), Ketchikan. Phone 907-225-6009.
http://www.gilmorehotel.com/annabelles.htm.
Bar Harbor Restaurant
This small, converted house is known for its grilled-steak
salad, steaks and fresh seafood. The halibut tacos are
consistently top-notch. Dine on the deck if you can. Open
for lunch and dinner. $$-$$$. Most major credit cards. 2813
Tongass Ave. (on the west end of town next to the Bar Harbor
Marina), Ketchikan. Phone 907-225-2813.
Jeremiah's Pub & The Landing Restaurant
The Best Western Landing Hotel houses two restaurants that
are both popular with locals. Jeremiah's Pub serves
everything from pastas to pub sandwiches. It features a
pleasant fireplace, circular bar and a deck overlooking
Tongass Narrows. Try the halibut BLT and beer-batter or
sweet-potato fries. Downstairs is the Landing Restaurant, a
family spot famous for its halibut-and-chips. Jeremiah's Pub
open daily for lunch and dinner; The Landing open for
breakfast, lunch and dinner. $$-$$$. Most major credit
cards. 3434 Tongass Ave. (across the Alaska Marine Highway
Ferry Terminal), Ketchikan. Phone 907-225-5166. Toll-free
800-428-8304. http://www.landinghotel.com/restaurant.aspx.
Pioneer Cafe
This cafe offers down-home cooking and is a local hangout.
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. $-$$. 617 Mission St.,
Ketchikan. Phone 907-225-3337.
Salmon Falls Resort
This sportfishing lodge serves excellent food in a beautiful
setting. Views include a waterfall, Clover Passage islands
and Behm Canal. Specialties include fresh halibut, salmon,
filet mignon and the best cheesecake in town. Nightly for
dinner May to mid-September. Reservations recommended. $$$.
Most major credit cards. 16707 N. Tongass Highway (18 mi/29
km north of downtown), Ketchikan. Phone 907-225-2752.
Toll-free 800-225-2752. http://www.salmonfallslodge.com.
The Narrows Inn Restaurant
Located on the water about 4 mi/6 km north of downtown, the
Narrows has become Ketchikan's consistently best restaurant,
particularly for lunch and dinner. The menu is similar to
most Ketchikan restaurants (seafood and steaks), but the
preparation is always excellent. The restaurant is
smoke-free. Smokers are invited to eat in Thornlow's
Waterfront Bar, which also has a great waterfront view.
$$-$$$. 4871 N. Tongass Highway, Ketchikan. Phone
907-247-2600. Toll-free 888-686-2600.
http://www.narrowsinn.com.
Cuisines
American
Polar Treats
This place serves stuffed wraps that will feed two people
and grilled panini. It also makes its own ice cream. Open
daily year-round for breakfast, lunch and early dinner;
closed Sunday in winter. $. Most major credit cards. 500
Mission St. (south end of the docks), Ketchikan. Phone
907-247-6527.
The Burger Queen
This small building right through the tunnel by the docks
has cozy outdoor tables and seating for eight inside. The
halibut is fresh, and the cheeseburgers are the best in
town. It also serves chicken, chili and salads. Open
year-round Tuesday-Saturday for lunch and dinner; Sunday and
Monday for lunch only in summer. $-$$. Most major credit
cards. 518 Water St., Ketchikan. Phone 907-225-6060.
Fusion
Diaz Cafe
Ketchikan's oldest restaurant has a nondescript-looking
exterior but serves excellent Filipino and Western food. Try
the hearty servings of spicy chicken adobo, a local
favorite. Open daily except Monday for lunch and dinner. $.
335 Stedman St., Ketchikan. Phone 907-225-2257.
Coffeehouses
Ketchikan Coffee Co.
This charming coffee shop located in the historic New York
Hotel has reasonable prices, live music, local art for sale
and Internet access. Be sure to sample the local Raven's
Brew coffee. It serves salads and tapas such as
bacon-wrapped scallops, brie and eggplant parmigiana. Look
for the Ray Troll Absolutely Creek Street mural and other
local art. Open daily in summer; hours vary. Winter hours
are 7 am-3 pm. $-$$. Most major credit cards. 207 Stedman
St. (across the Thomas Basin Boat Harbor), Ketchikan. Phone
907-247-2326. http://www.ketchikancoffee.com.
The Edge-Espresso Shop
You'll find assorted coffees, espresso, breakfast
sandwiches, Danish pastries, muffins and juices. It has a
cozy seating area with large windows to watch ships and tour
boats. May-September daily 7 am-4 pm; October-April 9 am-3
pm. $. 5 Salmon Landing Market, Ketchikan. Phone
907-225-1465.
Seafood
Alaska Fish House
Next to the Lumberjack Show is a distinctive little white
house known for fresh fish. The Alaska Fish House serves
alder-grilled salmon, halibut tacos, two-salmon chowder and
coffee from Ketchikan's Green Coffee Bean Company (phone
907-247-5621; http://www.tgcbc.com). Open for breakfast,
lunch and dinner mid-April to early October. 3 Salmon
Landing, Ketchikan. Phone 907-247-4055. Toll-free
877-732-9453. http://www.alaskafishhouse.com.
Crab Cracker Seafood Bar
This unpretentious place features seating at the counter and
is a good spot for people-watching. It offers the best
market price for king crab, which is served with melted
butter and a delicious salad. There's also a serve-yourself
all-beef hot-dog counter there. Open May-September
Monday-Saturday for lunch. $-$$. 5 Salmon Landing,
Ketchikan. Phone 907-247-2866.
http://www.ketchikanfishmarket.com/crab-cracker-seafood-bar.html.
Heen Kahidi
For fresh seafood and great views of Tongass Narrows, be
sure to take a ride on the funicular from Creek Street up to
this upscale restaurant. Open for breakfast, lunch and
dinner. Reservations recommended. $$-$$$. Most major credit
cards. 800 Venetia Way (inside the Cape Fox Lodge),
Ketchikan. Phone 907-225-8001. Toll-free 866-225-8001.
http://www.capefoxlodge.com/heen_kahidi.html.
Other Options
Orca Corn
This is the place to go for a popcorn snack. Look for the
smiling orca whale on top of the building. Free samples
available. $. 303 Mission St., Ketchikan. Phone
907-225-4435.
Security
Personal Safety
Crime is minimal in Alaska, and that includes Ketchikan. But
use common sense—be aware of your surroundings. The police
department often has foot and bicycle patrols in town.
Health
Mosquitoes and other nibblers can be a nuisance—be sure to
carry a good insect repellent on hikes (preferably one
containing deet as an active ingredient). Don't drink
untreated water from lakes or streams. No matter how
pristine the area seems, people and animals may have fouled
the water.
Always be aware of the possibility of encountering a bear.
If you do, don't approach it, and try to avoid quick actions
that may alarm it. Inquire locally for details on recent
bear activity and more advice on how to behave around wild
animals.
Ketchikan General Hospital is north of downtown at 3100
Tongass Ave. Phone 907-225-5171.
http://www.peacehealth.org/southeastalaska. In an emergency,
dial 911.
Disabled Advisory
Ketchikan has specially equipped local buses to accommodate
riders with disabilities. Elevators are available to the
second-floor shopping at Salmon Landing. Cape Fox Lodge has
a tram for the ride up to the resort. Watercraft,
floatplanes and tour buses may pose a problem—check with
individual companies.
Mobility carts and electric cars are available for rent from
Rain Barrel (400 Spruce Mill Way; phone 907-225-2277) and
Alaska Mobility Adventures (Mill Street; phone
907-247-2472). There's also a Walk and Roll Tour of downtown
Ketchikan. http://www.scootersketchikan.com.
Dos & Don'ts
Do call your credit-card company to let them know you will
be traveling in Alaska. If you don't, a message may appear
for the store to call the company for verification.
Don't cross streets except at crosswalks, especially along
Tongass Avenue near the docks. Vehicle traffic can be heavy
along the main streets.
Do dress in layers and take rain gear. Ketchikan gets a lot
of rain.
Do be sensitive to the distinctions between local tribes. Do
not refer to the Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshians as clans.
Do make noise when hiking trails to give bears a chance to
hide, and never feed wild animals.
Do visit galleries and studios to see artists at work.
Ketchikan has more master carvers than any other Alaska
location.
Don't try to pronounce the name of the island where
Ketchikan is located: Revillagigedo (ruh-vil-uh-gi-GAY-doh).
Locals shorten the name to Revilla (ruh-VIL-la).
Hotels
Hotel Overview
Ketchikan offers resorts, hotels, bed-and-breakfasts,
apartment and room rentals, and campgrounds. If staying for
any length of time, it's best to book well in advance.
Waterway travelers should reserve space at the marinas, and
RV travelers (via ferry) should do the same at Ketchikan's
campgrounds.
Hotel Listings
Phone: (1) 907-225-5166
Fax: (1) 907-225-5526
Toll Free: (1) 800-428-8304
Best Western Plus Landing Hotel
3434 Tongass Ave 99901
bwlanding@kpunet.net http://www.landinghotel.com
107 Guest Rooms • 4 Meeting Rooms • Restaurant[s] • Pets
Allowed
Location: 1/4 mile from Airport; across street from Marine
Highway Terminal
Nearby Points of Interest: Totem Bight (State Park) - 8
mi • Saxman (Totem Park) - 4 mi • Ted Ferry Civic Center
(Convention Center) - 2 mi
Phone: (1) 907-225-8001
Fax: (1) 907-225-8286
Toll Free: (1) 866-225-8001
Cape Fox Lodge
800 Venetia Way 99901
info@capefoxlodge.com http://www.capefoxlodge.com
72 Guest Rooms • 3 Meeting Rooms • Restaurant[s]
Location: Overlooking the Tongass Narrows
Nearby Points of Interest: Saxman Indian Village • Totem
Heritage Park • Deer Mountain
Phone: (1) 907-225-9423
Fax: (1) 907-225-7442
Toll Free: (1) 800-275-9423
The Gilmore Hotel
326 Front St 99901
info@gilmorehotel.com http://www.gilmorehotel.com
38 Guest Rooms • Restaurant[s]
Nearby Points of Interest:
Phone: (1) 907-225-0246
Fax: (1) 907-225-1803
Toll Free: (1) 866-225-0246
New York Hotel
207 Stedman St 99901
newyorkhotel@att.net http://www.thenewyorkhotel.com
14 Guest Rooms • 1 Meeting Room • Restaurant[s]
Location: Located at Thomas Basin Boat Harber
Nearby Points of Interest:
Phone: (1) 907-225-7906
Fax: (1) 907-247-3816
Toll Free: (1) 800-999-0784
Yes Bay Lodge
1515 Tongass Ave 99901
info@yesbay.com http://www.yesbay.com
12 Guest Rooms • 1 Meeting Room • Restaurant[s]
Location: Remote-in Tongass National Forest
Nearby Points of Interest:
Facts
Geostats
Passport/Visa Requirements: All U.S. citizens must have a
passport when traveling by air to or from Bermuda, Canada,
the Caribbean, Central and South America and Mexico.
Citizens of Canada, Mexico and the British Overseas
Territory of Bermuda also must have a passport or other
designated secure document to enter the U.S.
Passports are required for land crossings at the Canadian
and Mexican borders with the U.S. and for cruise passengers
returning to the U.S. from Mexico, the Caribbean, Canada or
Bermuda. Reconfirm travel-document requirements with your
carrier prior to departure.
Population: 7,503.
Languages: English.
Predominant Religions: Christian.
Time Zone: 9 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (-9 GMT).
Daylight Saving Time is observed from the second Sunday in
March to the first Sunday in November.
Voltage Requirements: 110 volts.
Telephone Codes: 907, area code for all of Alaska;
Money
Currency Exchange
There are several banks in the downtown area: Alaska Pacific
(410 Mission St.), First Bank (331 Dock St. and 2530 Tongass
Ave.) and Wells Fargo Bank Alaska (306 Main St., 4966 N.
Tongass Highway and 2415 Tongass Ave.). All have ATMs. The
visitors center also has an ATM (131 Front St.). Some stores
will accept Canadian currency at a fair exchange rate.
Banks are generally open Monday-Friday 10 am-5 pm.
Taxes
Although there is no state tax, the local tax rate is 6%.
The hotel occupancy rate is 7% for the city. The borough
hotel rate is 4%.
Tipping
Tip restaurant waitstaff and taxi drivers 15% unless good
service warrants more.
Weather
Summer is the best time to visit. The days are usually less
overcast and rainy than the rest of the year. June and July
average 7 in/17 cm precipitation compared with 20 in/52 cm
in October, but be prepared for rain any time. Temperatures
range 51-65 F/11-18 C. Fall and winter are much cooler, with
temperatures often dropping below freezing, and there is
less daylight for sightseeing activities.
What to Wear
The weather in Ketchikan can be cold and rainy or hot and
sunny. It is best to pack casural clothing to cover both
extremes, from shorts and a T-shirt to long pants, a sweater
or fleece garment and water-resistant jacket with a hood.
Layering is the rule. If you're traveling on the water, you
might also want to take a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and
carry a bottle of water. Make sure to pack comfortable
waterproof walking shoes and extra pairs of socks.
Communication
Telephone
Public phones are located in and around the visitors center
at the cruise-ship pier at Berth Three, at the Tongass
Trading Co. and throughout Ketchikan.
Most cell phones have good coverage in and around town.
Check with your provider before you travel.
Internet Access
There are several places in Ketchikan where Internet service
is available, including most hotels and lodges. Wi-Fi access
is available at the Cape Fox Lodge and at coffee shops. The
Ketchikan Public Library at 29 Dock St. also offers Internet
access. Other hot spot locations are at the cruise-ship
docks, 5 Salmon Landing, Crab Cracker Seafood Bar, Thomas
Basin and the Alaska Marine Highway ferry terminal. Seaport
Cyber
Internet access for US$5 per hour. Salmon Landing Building,
Second Floor (south end of the docks), Ketchikan. Phone
907-247-4615. Toll-free 888-295-0965.
http://www.seaportel.com/Ketchikan.htm.
Mail & Package Services
The main post office is at 3609 Tongass Ave. There is a post
office substation in the Barnaby's Building on Mission
Street.
Newspapers & Magazines
Ketchikan has two main papers. The Ketchikan Daily News is
published daily except Sunday
(http://www.ketchikandailynews.com). The Local Paper is
published every Wednesday and is distributed at points
throughout town (http://www.thelocalpaper.com). Both papers
list local events.
The best places to get up-to-date local information are at
the visitors centers (131 Front St. and Berth Three on the
dock).
Transportation
The downtown area is so small you can see almost everything
on foot. But a good way to get an overview of Ketchikan is
to catch one of the public buses that circle through town
daily.
Air
The Ketchikan International Airport (KTN) is across Tongass
Narrows on Gravina Island. There's no bridge to the island,
but a ferry runs every 30 minutes year-round between the
airport and a dock north of the state ferry pier (US$5
round-trip). There are floatplane docks north of the
cruise-ship pier. Phone 907-225-6800.
http://www.borough.ketchikan.ak.us/airport/airport.htm.
Car
Because Ketchikan is on an island, you can't get very far in
a car. But if you want to sightsee on your own, rental cars
are available for US$57-$96 per day. Reserve cars in advance
during the summer. Contact Budget Rent-A-Car at
907-225-6003, First City Car Rental at 907-225-7368 or
Alaska Car Rental at 800-662-0007. Courtesy shuttles to the
rental offices are offered from the cruise dock.
Ferry
Alaska Marine Highway
Ferries plying the Inside Passage stop at Ketchikan's ferry
terminal, which is 2 mi/3 km northwest of downtown. Rates
vary depending on the size of your vehicle or if you're on
foot. Toll-free 800-642-0066. http://www.ferryalaska.com.
Inter-Island Ferry Authority
This company provides year-round passenger and vehicle
service between Ketchikan and Hollis on Prince of Wales
Island. US$37 adults, US$86 for a standard-size vehicle.
Toll-free 866-308-4848. http://www.interislandferry.com.
Public Transportation
Ketchikan Gateway Borough operates The Bus, which consists
of three bus lines that travel throughout Ketchikan. The
Blue Line runs from Saxman Native Village to the north end
of Tongass Avenue, a half-hour trip either way. The fare is
US$1 one way, cash only. The Green Line makes an hour-long
circle into the hills and is the more scenic route. A day
pass for US$2 offers unlimited rides on either line, and you
can transfer from one to the other at the airport ferry. The
buses make frequent stops along their routes. The Red Line
covers the southern part of the island. Bus schedules are
available at the visitors centers and other locations around
town.
The transit association has also instituted a shuttle
service that connects Berth Four with Creek Street, the
Totem Heritage Center, Deer Mountain Tribal Hatchery and the
Tongass Historical Museum every 20 minutes May-September.
The shuttle is free. For information, phone 907-225-8726 or
907-247-5541.
http://www.borough.ketchikan.ak.us/publicworks/bus/businfo.htm.
Taxi
Several taxi companies offer transportation around town, as
well as individualized tours. Expect to spend US$35 for a
half-hour tour of the area, US$70 for for up to six people
in the cab. Call Alaska Cab at 907-225-2133, Yellow Cab at
907-225-5555 or Sourdough Cab at 907-225-5544.
For More Information
Tourist Offices
Ketchikan Visitors Bureau
The office offers walking-tour maps, brochures and
tour-reservation booths. Cultural events and festivals are
also available there or on the Web site. Public phones and
restrooms are available. Open daily in summer 8 am-5 pm and
whenever ships are in port. Winter hours are Monday-Friday 8
am-5 pm. 131 Front St. on the docks (a second location at
Berth Three), Ketchikan. Phone 907-225-6166. Toll-free
800-770-3300. http://www.visit-ketchikan.com.
Events
Calendar
Ketchikan's annual event calendar begins with the Wearable
Art Show each February. The Rainy Day Quilters Guild
celebrates Ketchikan's wetness with a Quilting in the Rain
show, also in February.
In April is the Alaska Hummingbird Festival, a month-long
celebration of the annual return of the Rufous hummingbird.
Southeast Alaska Discovery Center sponsors an art show and
bird walks, along with educational and recreational
activities. Phone 907-228-6220.
http://www.fs.fed.us/r10/tongass/districts/discoverycenter.
Not surprisingly, several of Ketchikan's annual events
relate to fish and water. The Celebration of the Sea (May)
honors the city's maritime heritage, and the Ketchikan King
Salmon Derby (June) is one of the region's largest fishing
events.
Fourth of July is a fun time throughout southeast Alaska.
Ketchikan sponsors an annual timber carnival and rubber duck
race along with the usual parades and firework displays.
Other events, such as the Blueberry Arts Festival in August
and the Winter Arts Faire in November, attract local
artisans to the area.
For more information about upcoming events in Ketchikan,
contact the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau. Phone 907-225-6166,
or toll-free 800-770-3300. http://www.visit-ketchikan.com.
Alternatively, contact the Ketchikan Area Arts and
Humanities Council at 907-225-2211.
http://www.ketchikanarts.org.
Denali National Park, Alaska
Overview
Introduction
For many people, the vast Denali National Park, covering
9,375 sq mi/24,280 sq km between Anchorage and Fairbanks, is
the highlight of a trip to Alaska. It's a truly spectacular
area, featuring the majestic 20,320-ft/6,299-m Mount
McKinley (many Alaskans prefer the Tanaina name, Denali),
the tallest mountain in North America. More than 155 species
of birds and 37 species of mammals, including Dall sheep,
caribou, grizzly bears, moose and wolves, inhabit the park.
The landscape is at its most verdant during July and August.
There are beautiful fall colors (and fewer travelers) in
early September.
The park is best seen as a three-night stop, especially if
you are taking the train between Fairbanks and Anchorage.
Mid-May to mid-September, the park offers interpretive talks
and walks with guides, and all-day bus tours take visitors
deep into the park. Be aware that the park road is
restricted to tour- and shuttle-bus traffic for most of its
90-mi/145-km length. Book bus tours in advance: They fill up
fast. Other park activities and facilities include fishing,
river rafting, horseback riding and dogsledding
demonstrations. Backcountry permits are available.
Reservations need to be made months in advance to stay at
the park's single lodge. Other lodging is available just
outside the park's entrance, where you will also find
restaurants and private parks for recreational vehicles.
Hotels
Hotel Listings
Phone: (1) 907-683-2282
Fax: (1) 907-683-2545
Toll Free: (1) 800-426-0500
Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge
Mile 238.5 Parks Hwy 99755
ptmarketing@princesstours.com http://www.princesslodges.com
651 Guest Rooms • 2 Meeting Rooms • Restaurant[s]
Location: Near the entrance to Denali Natl Park
Nearby Points of Interest:
Phone: (1) 907-683-8200
Fax: (1) 907-683-8211
Toll Free: (1) 800-276-7234
McKinley Chalet Resort
Mile Post 239 George Parks Hwy 99755
http://www.denalinationalpark.com
345 Guest Rooms • 2 Meeting Rooms • Restaurant[s]
Location: 2 miles from Park entrance
Nearby Points of Interest:
Phone: (1) 907-683-8900
Fax: (1) 907-683-8918
Toll Free: (1)
McKinley Village Lodge
Mile Post 231 99755
http://www.denalinationalpark.com
150 Guest Rooms • 1 Meeting Room • Restaurant[s]
Location: 6 miles from Park entrance
Nearby Points of Interest:
Glacier Bay Natl Pk, Alaska
Overview
Introduction
At the northern end of the Inside Passage, 550 mi/880 km
southeast of Anchorage, the Glacier Bay National Park
waterway stretches for 65 mi/105 km and contains 16
tidewater glaciers. In 1980, Glacier Bay became a U.S.
national park and preserve. It encompasses 3.2 million
acres/1.3 million hectares and can be visited only by sea or
air.
Small boats and planes generally leave from the nearby town
of Gustavus. Facilities and services at the park include
naturalist talks and walks, sea-kayak rentals and rustic
backcountry lodges. Gustavus also has several lodges and
bed-and-breakfasts. A number of companies operate
whale-watching tours and fishing tours in the bay.
The park has a variety of wildlife, including marine
mammals, wolves, moose, black and grizzly bears, Sitka
black-tailed deer and bald eagles. This area also has a
unique subspecies of black bears. Named glacial bears
because of their silver-tinged fur, they are identical in
size and features to the common black bear but are found
only in glacial areas.
Katmai National Park, Alaska
Overview
Introduction
Katmai National Park is a nature lover's paradise—4.2
million acres/1.7 million hectares of fishing, camping,
hiking, boating and sightseeing. It includes volcanoes,
waterfalls and diverse wildlife. It's an especially good
place to see magnificent brown bears—but follow park
rangers' instructions to the letter if you encounter one of
these powerful and dangerous animals.
The world-famous Brooks River is known for views of bears
catching salmon in midair as the fish attempt to clear the
falls. Most viewing is done from elevated platforms,
although it's possible to see bears on the trail or from the
main lodge. The best time to see bears is during the sockeye
run in July and August; there's also a run in June.
Also visit the Valley of the 10,000 Smokes—you can walk
along the pumice-and-ash floor of what was once the
Novarupta Volcano. Be aware that Katmai is for the hardy and
adventurous—only the scenery is deluxe there. Brooks Camp
lies at the center of the park (space must be booked months
in advance).
Other facilities and activities include interpretive
programs, lodging, food service, rental canoes and tours.
Katmai can be reached by flying to the town of King Salmon
287 mi/462 km southwest of Anchorage, then continuing by
smaller aircraft.
Also accessible from King Salmon is Aniakchak National
Monument and Preserve, a volcanic caldera (it last erupted
in 1911) from which the white-water Aniakchak River
cascades. This is one of Alaska's most formidable natural
wonders—starkly beautiful but also difficult to reach and,
because of high winds in the caldera, a difficult place to
camp. It's best reserved for the true adventurer.
Kodiak, Alaska
Overview
Introduction
The island of Kodiak, 250 mi/400 km southwest of Anchorage,
is known for its large population of Kodiak brown bears, and
the largest town on the island, also named Kodiak, is known
for its big fishing fleet. Kodiak is the second-largest U.S.
island (the Big Island of Hawaii is No. 1). It is sometimes
called Alaska's Emerald Isle because of the lush environment
created by its relatively warm weather (July and August
highs average around 60 F/16 C) and steady rain and fog.
Much of the island is preserved in the Kodiak National
Wildlife Refuge, where you'll find the Kodiak brown bear and
hundreds of bird species, otter, deer, foxes and marine
mammals.
As you stroll around town, you may notice several plaques
that describe the devastation from the Good Friday
Earthquake of 1964. The quake, which lasted five minutes,
was followed by a tsunami that destroyed much of the town.
Kodiak has several excellent museums, which are wonderful
places to learn a bit about the area's Alaska Native,
Russian and natural history (and a welcome respite if the
weather's wet). The Baranov Museum has an impressive display
of prehistoric artifacts, Russian icons and household items
from the 1800s, as well as an exhibit about the 1964
earthquake. The Alutiiq Museum and Archaeological Repository
was established to preserve the heritage of the people
native to the island.
If you have time, try to see the famous Kodiak brown bears,
the largest members of the brown bear family. It's an
experience you won't soon forget. The best way to see them
is to sign up for a tour. Nearly every air charter service
offers bear-viewing trips. Some operators run strictly
flightseeing trips, but others will land when they find a
good viewing spot. For more information about the bears,
contact the Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge.
Gates Of The Arctic National Park And Preserve, Alaska
Overview
Introduction
The Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve, a huge
8.2-million-acre/3.3-million-hectare preserve 200 mi/322 km
northwest of Fairbanks, is one of the most stunning expanses
of wilderness anywhere in the world. It preserves a good
portion of the majestic Brooks Range.
The park isn't easy to reach. Most visitors take charter
flights from Fairbanks into the park and camp for extended
periods. There are no facilities inside the park—it's truly
wilderness. If you have outdoors experience and plenty of
time, don't miss this overwhelming display of natural
wonders.
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, Alaska
Overview
Introduction
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is the largest national
park in the U.S., located 314 mi/505 km east of Anchorage,
and it includes towering mountain ranges, enormous glaciers
and churning wild rivers. Backcountry hikers may see Dall
sheep, grizzly and black bears, wolves, moose and caribou.
In the heart of the park is Kennicott, a historic
copper-mining ghost town that is being preserved by the
National Park Service. Enormous glaciers reach down from the
mountains, passing within a few feet of the old buildings.
Sparse lodging and minimal other facilities are located in
nearby McCarthy, itself almost a ghost town. Access is by
air or over a long and rough dirt road.
The park adjoins Kluane National Park in the Yukon and
Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge (near Tok), a marshy and
forested area teeming with fish and waterfowl.
Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, Alaska
Overview
Introduction
The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, 600 mi/966 km northeast
of Anchorage, is the largest in the U.S., covering more than
18 million acres/7.2 million hectares. It's often called
America's Serengeti because of the variety of animals within
its boundaries: lynx, caribou, grizzly and polar bears,
arctic fox, wolves, Dall sheep, musk oxen and many species
of birds.
Controversy continues about opening the reserve to oil
drilling, but those favoring preservation have thus far
carried the day. Many Alaska residents—including some of the
Alaska Natives on the North Slope—are in favor of allowing
oil exploration in the area. On the other hand, the Gwich'in
people, who subsist on caribou that bear their calves in the
refuge, oppose drilling.
Located in far-northeastern Alaska, bordering Canada and the
Arctic Ocean, the reserve offers spectacular scenery,
including the tallest peaks of the Brooks Range. Camping and
hiking are unrestricted, but mosquitoes and black flies can
be almost unbearable in midsummer. (Be sure to take along a
head net.)
The area is normally reached by air. The largest village
within the reserve is Kaktovik, on Barter Island in the
Arctic Ocean. The brief summer ranges from cool to warm, but
dry. Winters are relatively dry, but severely cold.
Fairbanks, Alaska
Overview
Introduction
Fairbanks, Alaska—named for 1902 Indiana Sen. Charles
Fairbanks—is truly a frontier. The gateway to the Arctic is
spread out on a seemingly endless plain in the Tanana
Valley, with only a few downtown high-rises and plenty of
log cabins dotting the residential districts.
Fairbanks, 125 mi/200 km south of the Arctic Circle and the
northernmost U.S. city (as well as Alaska's second largest),
is a hub for interior Alaska's commerce, education, arts,
and, more recently, tourism, even in winter. It makes up for
the dark winter months, though, by almost constant daylight
in summer.
One of Fairbanks' main draws in winter is the northern
lights, the colloquial name for the aurora borealis, which
means northern dawn. The multicolored displays illuminate
the night sky for hours, in colors ranging from yellow to
blue to green and even red. Most visitors do not see the
northern lights because it is rarely seen from late May to
early August.
Residents cheerfully joke about their weather and field
their visitors' endless questions about daylight, or lack of
it. The Fairbanks nickname of Golden Heart City, because of
its gold-rush history, could just as easily apply to its
residents. In fact, visitors can be matched for free to a
"Golden Heart Greeter," local residents who will meet with
you for an hour or two in an agreed-upon location.
Map
Must See or Do
Sights—Golden Heart Park; the Trans-Alaska Pipeline; Denali
National Park (just around the corner in Alaska terms,
although it's 226 mi/364 km southwest of Fairbanks, at Mile
132.2 of George Parks Highway/Alaska Highway 3).
Museums—Collections of ethnographic artifacts at the
University of Alaska's Museum of the North; a perspective on
the gold rush at the Pioneer Hall Museum; the Alaska Native
Village Museum.
Memorable Meals—Cedar-planked wild salmon at The Pump House;
steak and seafood at Pike's Landing; outstanding Italian
food at Gambardella's.
Late Night—Comedy and live concerts at the Blue Loon;
hip-hop at Barracuda's; live folk and blues at McCafferty's.
Walks—The Boreal Forest Trail at Creamer's Field; a stroll
along Pioneer Park's riverside trail; the many trails on the
campus of the University of Alaska at Fairbanks.
Especially for Kids—Alaskan Tails of the Trail with Mary
Shields; panning for gold at El Dorado Gold Mine; Riverboat
Discovery tour; Pioneer Park's Crooked Creek & Whiskey
Island Railroad and sternwheeler Nenana; crawling through a
maze made of ice in the Ice Park.
Geography
Spread out along the forested floor of Tanana Valley along
the banks of the Chena River, Fairbanks is fairly easy to
navigate. However, do watch out for a number of one-way
streets in the downtown area.
The city's most obvious geographical feature is the Chena
River (pronounced CHEE-nah), which winds through the city
mostly in an east-west direction. Airport Way lines the
southern edge of the city, and College Road forms the
northern border. Cushman and Barnette streets are the city's
main north-south arteries. The heart of downtown sits
squarely on the waterfront.
More industrial areas lie north of the river, with the
University of Alaska at Fairbanks to the northwest on
College Road. Highway 3, the George Parks Highway (Alaskans
tend to use road names rather than speaking in numbers),
crosses the south side of town, eventually leading to Denali
National Park to the southwest and to Anchorage, 358 mi/576
km away.
History
The Fairbanks area was originally a fishing zone for native
Athabascans. When the gold rush arrived in the Klondike,
prospectors flocked to the region in hopes of striking it
rich. In 1901, E.T. Barnette was dumped off his sternwheeler
at the present location of First Avenue and Cushman Street
when the river became too shallow for the ship to continue
up the Chena River. He had planned to start up a general
store farther north, where miners were finding gold. Right
after Barnette got off the boat (the landing marked by a
small monument and plaque in the yard of the downtown
visitors center), Felix Pedro ran into him. Pedro, the
Italian responsible for the Fairbanks gold rush, was looking
for supplies, and his chance appearance helped push Barnette
into building his store where he was rather than move north.
Within a year, the gold rush—led by Pedro's discovery—sprang
up around Barnette and his trading post, the first
non-Native building in the area.
In the early years, Fairbanks turned out more than US$200
million in gold (as much as US$9 million in one year). Many
of the men who went there to work their claims built homes
and took their families to stay with them. Within five years
of its founding, Fairbanks was a town of 12,000 people, with
two hospitals, a library, post office, schools, newspapers
and various other businesses.
Though the city's economy began to decline, it received a
boost in 1911 with the arrival of the Tanana Valley
Railroad. The Alaska Agricultural College and School of
Science was established in 1922 (it became the University of
Alaska at Fairbanks in 1935) and also provided a slight boon
for the city. However, it wasn't until 1968, with the
construction of an oil pipeline, that Fairbanks saw
considerable growth. In the two years it took to build the
800-mi/1,300-km Trans-Alaska Pipeline, the city's
metropolitan population nearly doubled to 65,000. Today,
Fairbanks is a gem for visitors and offers many
opportunities to peek into the history of this former
gold-rush town.
Potpourri
Home to the original Babe the Blue Ox, the Museum of the
North on the campus of the University of Alaska at Fairbanks
has mummified remains of a 36,000-year-old, blue-hued
Alaskan steppe bison.
The aurora borealis—or northern lights—can be seen an
average of 243 days a year, although the endless hours of
daylight in the summer create less-dramatic views. In
2006-07, Japan Air Lines scheduled 10 winter nonstop flights
to Fairbanks so 3,500 Japanese tourists could experience the
phenomenon. Supposedly, children conceived under the aurora
are more intelligent.
Summer daylight hours are frequently referred to as the
"midnight sun," but that really means only that the sun is
visible at midnight in midsummer. There are 21 hours of
daylight at summer solstice, but it's never completely dark
then, so technically there is daylight for 24 hours.
Conversely, there are only four hours of daylight at winter
solstice in December.
For nearly a century, Alaskans have bet on break-up—the
exact time that ice in the Tanana River breaks up at the end
of winter. Winners have netted more than US$300,000 in the
Nenana Ice Classic, named for a town 65 mi/105 km southwest
of Fairbanks.
In the period 1928-59, Gold Dredge No. 8, now a visitor
attraction, scooped up 7 million ounces in gold.
You'll hear the terms muskeg and ulu (pronounced OO-loo).
Muskeg is a squishy, mossy, swampy bog. Trees growing in
muskeg are often stunted. An ulu is a handy, almost
semicircular, broad knife used by Alaska Native Inuit
peoples.
In the town called Central, which is north of Fairbanks, you
can pay for your drinks with gold dust.
The Yukon river is the third-largest in the U.S. and the
longest river in Alaska.
More than 1,500 tons of ice is cut from a frozen pond for
the Fairbanks winter ice-sculpting competitions.
There are no fireworks on Independence Day in Fairbanks
because of nearly 24 hours of sunlight.
See & Do
Sightseeing
Although Denali National Park is a top sightseeing draw for
visitors to Fairbanks, the town itself and the immediate
surrounding area also have much to offer, especially if
you're keen on frontier towns. Visitors can relive the
gold-rush days at the El Dorado Gold Mine or witness
firsthand how pioneers made their way north on the
sternwheeler Nenana. Pioneer Park offers museums and
historic mementos to create the aura of days long past, and
the Alaska Native Village Museum harks back to a time before
the first European settlers paddled upriver.
Fairbanks also has its share of fine museums, including the
renowned University of Alaska Museum of the North, with more
than 1.4 million artifacts. Nature lovers will also be
pleased by the area's parks and gardens. The Robert G. White
Large Animal Research Station offers a peek at Arctic
wildlife—including muskoxen, caribou and reindeer—and the
Georgeson Botanical Garden will astonish you with the
diversity of plant species found in interior Alaska.
Historic Sites
El Dorado Gold Mine
The perfect antidote for gold fever, this fun attraction
allows families a chance to pan for gold in heated water,
ride a replica Tanana Valley Railroad car on a two-hour tour
through a permafrost tunnel, stroll through a mining camp,
see a sluice box demonstration by miners and learn something
about the gold rush. It is one of the original gold-rush
sites, and visitors can explore the historic structures and
facilities. Mid-May to mid-September with tour departures at
9:45 am and 3 pm. US$35 adults, US$23 children. Fee includes
train transportation. Mile 1.3 Elliott Highway (Highway 2),
Fairbanks. Phone 907-479-6673. Toll-free 866-479-6673.
http://www.eldoradogoldmine.com.
Sternwheeler Nenana
Originally a vital mode of transportation for early
pioneers, this riverboat has been renovated to its early
glory days. Visitors can walk through it and enjoy a little
hands-on history. Its cargo hold is filled with dioramas of
early pioneer life. The Nenana has recently been listed as a
National Historic Landmark. Mid-May to September daily
noon-8 pm. Donations accepted. In Pioneer Park at 2300
Airport Way, Fairbanks. Phone 907-459-1087.
http://co.fairbanks.ak.us/ParksandRecreation/PioneerPark/attractions/museums/riverboat_nenanna.htm.
Trans-Alaska Pipeline
A viewpoint for the pipeline is just a short trip north of
the city. It offers a chance to see this 800-mi/1,300-km
structure and a visitors center sponsored by Alyeska
Pipeline Service Company. Information about the workings of
the pipeline, how it was built and how it is maintained are
available at the center. Free. Milepost 4.8 on the Steese
Highway (Highway 3), Fairbanks. Phone 907-450-5873.
http://www.alyeska-pipe.com.
Veterans Memorial at Bicentennial Park
Just north of City Hall and the police station, this park
has a slate memorial honoring the memory of Fairbanks
residents who served in the U.S. military. Free. 700 Cushman
St., Fairbanks. Phone 907-459-1070.
Museums
Alaska Native Village Museum
This village and museum in Pioneer Park displays artifacts,
such as tools and clothing, from the Athabaskan culture.
Memorial Day-Labor Day daily noon-8 pm. Pioneer Park,
Fairbanks. Phone 907-459-1087.
http://www.co.fairbanks.ak.us/ParksandRecreation/PioneerPark.
Fairbanks Community Museum
Housed in the historic City Hall, this museum features
exhibits on the history of the city, the flood of 1967,
gold-rush artifacts and the Yukon Quest dogsled race. The
exhibit Fun at 40 Below presents photos of local life,
collectibles, history and more regarding the extreme
climate. Mid-May to mid-September Tuesday-Saturday 10 am-6
pm; mid-September to mid-May Monday-Friday 11 am-3 pm.
Donations requested. 410 Cushman St., Fairbanks. Phone
907-457-3669. http://www.fairbankscommunitymuseum.com.
Fairbanks Ice Museum
Built in 1936, this Lacey Street historic building used to
be a major picture theater, but now the billboard stays the
same year-round. In addition to some fantastic ice-sculpture
displays, the museum shows a film so visitors can see ice
carving even in the heat of summer. Mid-May to late
September daily 10 am-8 pm for hourly showings. US$12
adults, US$6 children ages 6-12. 500 Second Ave., Fairbanks.
Phone 907-451-8222. http://www.icemuseum.com.
Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum
This museum features a world-class collection of more than
70 historically significant American automobiles that
showcase the heritage of the automobile during Alaska's
post-gold-rush era. The museum has everything from horseless
carriages and brass-era buggies to midget racers and the
classic luxury cars of the 1930s. Most of the cars are
maintained in running condition, and visitors can view
repair projects taking place in the museum's shop. Open in
summer Sunday-Thursday 11 am-10 pm, Friday and Saturday 11
am-6 pm; winter hours starting 20 September, open Sunday
noon-6 pm. US$8 adults, US$5 children ages 6-12, free for
children age 5 and younger. 212 Wedgewood Drive (on the
grounds of Wedgewood Resort), Fairbanks.
http://www.fountainheadhotels.com.
Pioneer Air Museum
Within this large building with a gilded dome, you'll find a
photographic history of early flight in Alaska. The
structure also houses 14 complete airplanes with
explanations on how they were used and who their pilots
were. Memorial Day-Labor Day noon-8 pm. US$2. Children under
12 free. 2300 Airport Way, Fairbanks. Phone 907-451-0037.
http://www.akpub.com/akttt/aviat.html.
Pioneer Hall Museum
This museum focuses on the pioneer days with antique
dogsleds, old-fashioned printing presses from three
newspapers started in the early 1900s, gold-prospecting
equipment, spinning wheels and other pioneer memorabilia.
Memorial Day-Labor Day noon-8 pm. Donations are accepted.
Gold Rush Town at Pioneer Park, 2300 Airport Way, Fairbanks.
Phone 907-456-8579. http://www.akpub.com/akttt/pione.html.
University of Alaska Museum of the North
Voted best museum in Alaska, this facility offers a window
into the cultural history of Fairbanks and the surrounding
interior region of the state. The museum is renowned for its
dramatic architecture and its collection of more than 1
million artifacts, including a well-preserved,
36,000-year-old bison named Blue Babe. Exhibits are
accompanied by audio guides and videos. It offers a 125-seat
auditorium, museum store, and aurora (northern lights) show.
Mid-May to mid-September daily 9 am-7 pm; mid-September to
mid-May Monday-Saturday 9 am-5 pm. US$10 adults, US$5
children 7-17. 907 Yukon Drive (on the campus of the
University of Alaska Fairbanks), Fairbanks. Phone
907-474-7505. http://www.uaf.edu/museum.
Nature
Denali National Park
For many people, this vast national park (covering 9,419 sq
mi/24,395 sq km) is the highlight of a trip to Alaska. A
two-hour, 125-mi/201-km drive south of Fairbanks on Alaska
Route 3, the Parks Highway, it's a truly spectacular area.
It features the majestic 20,320-ft/6,299-m Mount McKinley
(many Alaskans prefer the native Tanana name of Denali, "the
great one"), the tallest mountain in North America. More
than 167 species of birds and 39 species of
mammals—including Dall's sheep, caribou, grizzly bears,
moose and wolves—inhabit this park.
The landscape is at its most verdant during June, July and
August. Beautiful fall colors (and fewer travelers) can be
found in early September. The park is open for skiing and
dog-sledding year-round. The Denali Visitor Center: Open
mid-May to mid-September daily 8 am-6 pm. Eielson Visitor
Center: Open 8 June-15 September daily 9 am-7 pm. Private
vehicles can access 15 mi/24 km of the park for US$20 per
car, US$10 per individual on bike or on foot, good for seven
days. Fees are included for purchased park-sponsored bus
shuttle rides. Shuttle prices range US$22-$43.75. Tour bus
prices start at US$55 for a natural history tour. 50 Denali
Park Road, Fairbanks. Phone 907-683-2294.
http://www.nps.gov/dena.
Parks & Gardens
Georgeson Botanical Garden
A beautiful compilation of the plants, vegetables and
flowers that grow in Fairbanks' climate. You will be amazed
by what flourishes in the extreme temperatures. A gift store
is on the premises. Mid-May to October daily 9 am-8 pm.
Guided tours are led at 2 pm on Fridays June-August. US$2.
117 W. Tanana Drive, Fairbanks. Phone 907-474-1944.
http://www.uaf.edu/salrm/gbg.
Golden Heart Park
This pleasant park by the Chena River has an 18-ft/6-m
bronze statue commemorating the unknown first family of
Alaska and a monument to the spot where pioneer investor
E.T. Barnette landed. There's also a mile marker revealing
the distances to many cities around the world. 550 First
Ave., Fairbanks. Phone 907-456-5774.
Amusement Parks
Pioneer Park
This 44-acre/18-hectare park teems with Alaskan history. In
addition to the Pioneer Air Museum (US$2 admission), Tanana
Valley Railroad Museum and a Native village, it features the
Alaska Salmon Bake outdoor restaurant, the Big Stampede show
(five times daily) in Pioneer Hall's Theater, another show
in the Palace Theatre, a sample-sized Gold Rush Town with 35
cabins, and the Crooked Creek & Whiskey Island Railroad that
circles the park.
The Alaska Centennial Center for the Arts includes an art
gallery and a center for performing arts. The park also
offers miniature golf, an antique carousel and several
playgrounds along with the Riverboat Nenana (US$2 admission)
and the railroad car used by U.S. President Warren G.
Harding. Pioneer Park is open year-round and is free. Gold
Rush Town and the museums are open Memorial Day-Labor Day
daily noon-9 pm. 2300 Airport Way, Fairbanks. Phone
907-459-1087.
http://co.fairbanks.ak.us/ParksandRecreation/PioneerPark.
Zoos & Wildlife
Alaska Bird Observatory
Bird lovers will flock to this research and education
facility. The observatory offers information about migration
patterns, feeding habits, unusual sightings and current
issues threatening different species. Open Monday-Friday 9
am-9 pm year-round. Donations accepted. 418 Wedgewood Drive,
Fairbanks. Phone 907-451-7159. http://www.alaskabird.org.
Robert G. White Large Animal Research Station
An offshoot of the University of Alaska at Fairbanks, this
research facility is home to caribou, reindeer and musk
oxen. It offers short guided tours and viewing opportunities
for the public. A gift shop features qiviut (wool from the
undercoat of the musk ox), along with other items. Hour-long
tours offered late May-early September 10 am-4 pm; 30-minute
minitours are held throughout the day. Call ahead for other
months. Gift shop open 10 am-5 pm. US$10 adults, US$6
students. Children 6 and under are free. 2220 Yankovich
Road, Fairbanks. Phone 907-474-7207.
http://www.uaf.edu/lars.
Other Options
Chena Hot Springs
This is a full day's worth of fun. Spend time in the natural
mineral springs and take a trail ride on an ATV, a dog cart
or a horse. Then tour the Aurora Ice Museum, which comes
complete with ice-sculpted seating, beds, an outhouse and an
ice bar with caribou-covered ice stools. The signature
alcoholic drink is an appletini, served in an ice-carved
martini glass. Heat from a geothermal power plant keeps the
ice a cool 20 F/-7 C year-round. Dog-sled rides are
available in the winter. Approximately 60 mi/100 km
northeast of Fairbanks at Milepost 56.5 on Chena Hot Springs
Road. Lodging is available. Open year-round. Prices for room
rentals vary. Hot springs are free with room rental or US$10
adults, US$7 children ages 6-12. Phone 907-451-8104.
http://www.chenahotsprings.com.
Recreation
The great outdoors is the focus of recreational activities
in Fairbanks. Bird-watching has been gaining popularity
since the community of Fairbanks purchased Creamer's Field
in 1966. Canoeing and kayaking on the Chena River on a nice
summer day is a treat not to be missed. Boats can be rented
with or without guides at Pioneer Park.
Bicycle rentals are available at the park, too, which
features an easy trail that parallels the Chena River. Bike
trails are also found all over the University of Alaska at
Fairbanks campus and adjacent to the Tanana Valley State
Fairgrounds off College Road. For an exciting water
adventure, make the trip to Denali Park and raft the Nenana
River's Class V rapids.
In winter, ski Moose Mountain (10 mi/16 km northwest of
Fairbanks; 42 downhill runs) or Skiland (21 mi/34 km north
of Fairbanks; 26 downhill runs). Cross-country ski at Birch
Hill Recreation Area or University of Alaska at Fairbanks
Skarland Trail System. You can also fish at several ponds
that are stocked with rainbow trout, but don't forget to get
a fishing license.
Bicycling
Alaska Outdoor Rentals and Guides
Rent a bike from these outfitters and pedal your way along
the banks of the Chena River or elsewhere on the extensive
path systems that line the city. A bike-trail map, a helmet
and a bike lock come with your rental. This company also
offers canoes, kayaks, and guided excursions. Memorial Day
weekend to Labor Day 11 am-7 pm daily. US$19 for half-day;
US$27 for full day. 2300 Airport Way (Pioneer Park),
Fairbanks. Phone 907-457-2453. http://www.akbike.com.
Bird Watching
Creamer's Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge
This 1,800-acre/730-hectare historic site was once the most
successful and largest dairy farm in interior Alaska. When
it was sold, its fields were preserved, allowing it to serve
as a resting place each spring and fall for migrating birds
such as swans, ducks, geese and other species, including
more than 2,000 sandhill cranes. Guided nature walks are
available weekdays at 10 am and 7 pm. June-August, the
Saturday morning with an artist program begins at 10 am and
ends at 2 pm. Farmhouse Visitors Center and gift shop open
daily 10 am-5 pm. Free. 1300 College Road, Fairbanks. Phone
907-459-7307. http://www.creamersfield.org.
Boating & Sailing
Canoe Alaska
Specializing in white-water canoe instruction, raft outings,
and expeditions. Phone 907-883-2628.
http://www.canoealaska.net.
Paddler's Cove Outfitters
Specializing in canoe and kayak rentals, either guided or
unguided, this outfitter will get you set up for your next
water excursion, including downstream pickup if you wish.
Life jackets are included, but stay in the boat—remember,
you're in Fairbanks, and the water is not at all warm. Early
May to mid-September daily 11 am-7 pm. Prices start at US$24
for a half-day single-kayak rental, US$33 for a half-day
canoe rental. 2300 Airport Way (Pioneer Park), Fairbanks.
Phone 907-457-2453. http://www.2paddle1.com.
Golf
North Star Golf Club
This 18-hole USGA course has a visitor's package that
includes a golf cart, club rentals and a certificate that
states you have played at America's Northernmost Golf
Course. This is also a unique opportunity to see things you
may not expect on a golf course: moose, muskrats, eagles,
sandhill cranes, foxes and other wildlife. There's an animal
checklist on the scorecard. May-early September daily 7
am-10 pm or later. US$30 for 18 holes. 330 Golf Club Drive,
Fairbanks. Phone 907-457-4653. http://www.northstargolf.com.
Hiking & Walking
Alaska Public Lands Information Center
Has information about the Birch Hill trail system, Creamer's
Nature Path, Skarland and other trails in and around
Fairbanks. Open daily in summer 9 am-6 pm. Winter hours are
Tuesday-Saturday 10 am-6 pm. Morris Thompson Cultural and
Visitors Center, 101 Dunkel St., Fairbanks. Phone
907-456-0527. Toll-free 866-869-6887.
http://www.nps.gov/aplic.
Chena Hot Springs State Recreation Area
Just outside of Fairbanks, experience a range of hikes from
Angel Rocks Trail (about a 4-mi/6-km loop) to Granite Tors
Trail (about a 15-mi/24-km loop) to Chena Dome Trail (about
a 29-mi/46.7-km loop).
Eric Lindskoog Skijor Trails
A premier hiking spot is close to town on the University of
Alaska at Fairbanks campus. Multiple trails wind through the
campus with varying slopes and vistas. Free. 117 W. Tanana
Drive, Fairbanks. Phone 907-474-6921.
Horseback Riding
Gray Line of Alaska
Apart from offering a range of package tours and day trips,
Gray Line offers a four-hour horseback ride that takes
riders across a variety of terrain from tundra to alpine in
Denali National Park, a two-hour drive south of Fairbanks.
It's not the typical nose-to-tail-style trail ride: This is
a great opportunity to see wildlife without them seeing you,
as well as have a narrated tour of the park. Minimum age for
riders is 7. US$125. 829 Noble St., in the Westmark Hotel,
or 1521 S. Cushman St., Fairbanks. Phone 907-451-6835.
Toll-free 800-544-2206. http://www.graylinealaska.com.
Heavy Horse Farm
Ride with experienced guides on summer trail rides and pack
trips, or go for sleigh rides and dog sledding in winter.
Trail rides begin at 11 am. It's US$55 for a one-hour ride
or US$175 with lunch all day. 1285 Sattley Drive, Fairbanks.
Phone 907-457-3601. http://www.heavyhorsefarm.com.
Other Options
Denali Outdoor Center
This experienced rafting company has traveled the Nenana
River thousands of times, and its guides know the
treacherous water as well as anyone. This exciting river
with Class V rapids and freezing water can be taken in
different doses, depending on your preference: Choose from a
half-day rapids float or a two-hour (or longer) canyon run.
Fees vary based on trip. Milepost 238.5 on Parks Highway,
Fairbanks. Phone 907-683-1925. Toll-free 888-303-1925.
http://www.denalioutdoorcenter.com.
Midnight Sun Balloon Tours
Take to the sky in these brightly colored hot-air balloons.
With a pilot and a staff who have several decades of
experience among them, you can sit back and enjoy the
amazing experience of flying without the sound of an engine.
The physical location of the ride depends on winds.
June-September, daily departures at 6 am and 8 pm to take
advantage of the winds. US$210 adult and US$160 children 12
and under. Phone 907-456-3028.
http://www.alaskaballoontours.com.
Sun Dog Express Dog Sled Tours
Go dogsledding with this year-round kennel. Learn how to
mush and take a team out for a ride—these dogs love to run.
If you're a dog lover, it doesn't get much more fun than
this. Daily May-October. US$30 for a demo and short ride.
Longer rides and tours may be given if reserved ahead. 1540
Hayes St., Fairbanks. Phone 907-479-6983.
http://www.mosquitonet.com/~sleddog.
Nightlife
Fairbanks is clearly not Seattle, L.A. or New York when it
comes to nightlife, but it does offer some nice options for
cooling your heels at the end of a busy day. The most
versatile of clubs is the Blue Loon, a local hot spot for
dancing, live music, comedy acts and occasional movie
showings. Barracuda's and the Marlin are also fun options
for great nights out.
There is no central clubbing zone, although you will find
many hole-in-the-wall bars downtown. Stick to bars in the
nicer hotels if you're looking for wine. McCafferty's Coffee
House is a nice downtown option for laid-back live music and
a pleasant atmosphere, but it serves only coffee-shop items.
For most quality nightlife, you'll have to drive beyond the
downtown area.
Call 907-456-4636 or look in the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner
or http://www.downtownfairbanks.com/calendar.html for a
listing of events. Look up which restaurants participate in
"Live After 5."
Dance & Nightclubs
Barracuda's
A unique Alaskan dance spot, Barracuda's plays random mixes
of mostly Top 40, rock, rap and hip-hop Thursday-Saturday DJ
nights. Wednesday is karaoke night. Always lively and
interesting, Barracuda's tends to attract a younger crowd.
Cover charge varies. 1351 Cushman St., Fairbanks. Phone
907-452-7977.
The Blue Loon
Voted the No. 1 favorite by locals, the Blue Loon is both a
nightclub and a movie theater. Go for self-declared (and
confirmed by locals) "wild parties," outdoor festivals,
great food, concerts and occasional movies. This is a great
place for rock and pop dance music provided by DJs, comedy
nights and live concerts. Wednesday-Saturday from 5 pm.
Cover charge varies. 2999 Parks Highway, Fairbanks. Phone
907-457-5666. http://www.theblueloon.com.
Live Music
Howling Dog Saloon
Known by locals as "The Dog," this is the place to be in the
summer. It has live music Wednesday-Saturday. There's a cafe
and volleyball in the back. 2160 Old Steese Hwy., Fairbanks.
Phone 907-456-4695. http://www.howlingdogsaloon.com.
McCafferty's
If you're looking for something a little quieter than a
raucous dance band, this downtown spot is a bohemian
coffeehouse, with live blues and folk music on Friday and
Saturday nights. Cool sculptures hanging on the walls give
the place an artsy feel. 408 Cushman St., Fairbanks. Phone
907-456-6853.
The Marlin
A live-music venue that often has Alaskan bands playing for
appreciative locals. A decent sound stage and reliably fun
entertainers make up for low ceilings and poor lighting.
It's open mike on Wednesday. Artists range from bluegrass to
metal Thursday-Saturday. Cover charge varies; usually US$5
on Friday and Saturday nights. 3412 College Road, Fairbanks.
Phone 907-479-4646.
Performing Arts
Although it is a small city, Fairbanks serves a large area
with its performing-arts scene, and it offers a remarkable
range of artistic events throughout the year. Several annual
events draw artists from around the world to teach and share
their talents. The Fairbanks Arts Association and Fairbanks
Concert Association do much to organize arts events for the
public. One of the primary providers of entertainment is the
Fairbanks Symphony, whose season schedule runs
September-April each year. Other groups include community
choirs, chamber orchestras, a Shakespeare theater, the North
Star Ballet Company, a children's theater and more.
Alaska Native cultural events are unique opportunities in
Fairbanks. Often held at the University of Alaska at
Fairbanks in correlation with the World Eskimo-Indian
Olympics, these gatherings typically include singing,
dancing, storytelling and demonstrations of cultural life.
You won't see anything like this anywhere else.
The Hering Auditorium, along Airport Way, serves as the
venue for the largest concerts in the city. Another commonly
used site is the University of Alaska at Fairbanks' Charles
Davis Concert Hall. It hosts the Fairbanks Summer Arts
Festival each year. The Alaska Centennial Center for the
Arts at Pioneer Park is also a popular spot, with its free
outdoor performances.
Dance
North Star Ballet Company
Since 1987, this troupe has performed The Nutcracker each
year. With 180 dancers, it also holds an annual Spring Gala.
Ballet training lasts 30 weeks each year and coincides with
the school year. Admission prices vary. 1800 College Road,
Fairbanks. Phone 907-451-8800.
Music
Fairbanks Symphony Association
The music of Beethoven and Puccini fills the Charles Davis
Concert Hall at the University of Alaska Fine Arts Complex
throughout the winter. The holiday program includes the
Northland Children's Choir, the Choir of the North,
University Chorus and others. 234 University of Alaska
Fairbanks Fine Arts Complex, 312 Tanana Drive, Fairbanks.
Phone 907-474-5733. http://www.fairbankssymphony.org.
Opera
Opera Fairbanks
Founded in 1995, the nonprofit Opera Fairbanks is the only
professional company in interior Alaska devoted to opera.
Phone 907-457-2780. http://www.operafairbanks.org.
Theater
Fairbanks Drama Association & Fairbanks Children's Theatre
For nearly half a century, this groups has presented six
plays each year, using and showcasing local talent. Titles
range from Madeline's Christmas to Murdered to Death.
Performances are at various venues around town.
September-May. 1852 Second Ave., Fairbanks. Phone
907-451-4378.
Fairbanks Light Opera Theatre
This may be about as far Off-Broadway as you can get. For
nearly 40 years, this group has been performing musical
theater, including such productions as Bye-Bye Birdie, The
Gondoliers and Man of La Mancha. Venues include Hering
Auditorium and Pioneer Park Theater. November-March.
Individual ticket prices range from US$20 adults to US$10
for children younger than 12. Reserved tickets US$36 adults.
Phone 907-456-3568. http://www.flot.org.
Fairbanks Shakespeare Theater
It's Shakespeare and more for theater lovers. During winter
months, productions range from a children's mystery rabbit
tale to plays by Tennessee Williams and even a play by the
beloved bard himself. Performances are at the Empress
Theatre in the downtown Co-op Plaza building (entrance on
Third Avenue).
In January, when nights are long, the Bard-a-thon features
24-hour open readings of Shakespeare's entire works. In
July, a Shakespearean play is performed at the Jack
Townshend Point outdoor stage at University of Alaska at
Fairbanks. Performances are at 7:30 pm Thursday-Saturday,
with matinees on Sunday at 2 pm. Phone 907-457-7638.
http://www.fairbanks-shakespeare.org.
Ticket Brokers
Hoitt's Music
Music, dance, local lectures, folk-music concerts and
festival tickets can all typically be found at Hoitt's.
Sporting event tickets are available there also. 1616 S.
Cushman St., Fairbanks. Phone 907-452-7991.
Venues
Alaska Centennial Center for the Arts
From blues to storytelling, rock to reggae, the summer
series at the Alaska Centennial Center for the Arts in
Pioneer Park is well attended. Performances are held twice a
week in summer. Limited seating is available, so consider
taking a blanket and a picnic dinner. Tuesday and Thursday
at 7 pm in summer. Free. 2300 Airport Way (Pioneer Park),
Fairbanks. Phone 907-456-6485.
http://www.co.fairbanks.ak.us/ParksandRecreation/PioneerPark.
Charles Davis Concert Hall
This venue hosts large performing-arts events as well as
many community art shows. Many of the final performances
from the Fairbanks Summer Festival are scheduled there.
Admission prices vary. 800 Tanana Loop (University of Alaska
campus), Fairbanks. Phone 907-474-7555.
Hering Auditorium
This venue functions primarily as a concert hall (and has
hosted such performers as Emmy Lou Harris and John Prine),
as well as a lecture and general-entertainment location.
Hours depend on the performance. 907 Airport Way, Fairbanks.
Phone 907-452-3177 or box office at 907-451-0112.
Spectator Sports
Fairbanks doesn't have any professional sports teams, but it
does have serious athletes—and quite a few of them have four
legs. Clearly, Fairbanks is crazy about dog racing. By far,
the most popular sporting event in Fairbanks is the
1,000-mi/1,610-km Yukon Quest International Sled Dog Race.
In addition to this well-attended race, there are also many
smaller dogsledding contests, including the 250-mi/400-km
Quest qualifying race, the 120-mi/190-km Junior Yukon Quest
Race, the Junior North American Championship Sled Dog Race
and many others.
But there are other sporting events in Fairbanks, too, such
as the World Eskimo-Indian Olympics and the World
Championship Ice Carving Competition. The city is also known
for great cross-country skiing: The Equinox Ultra Ski is a
62-mi/100-km race. The GCI Arctic Man Ski & Sno-Go Classic
is fun to watch as skiers are pulled along behind speeding
snowmobiles in an exceedingly fast 3.4-mi/5.5-km race.
The Goldpanners are a minor-league baseball team that claims
to have won more national championships than any other team
in their league. They enjoy inviting teams from the lower 48
states to come north for the Midnight Sun Invitational,
which is played outdoors on summer solstice through midnight
(no lights needed).
The University of Alaska at Fairbanks teams, all referred to
as the Nanooks, participate in the Division II league and
are perhaps best known for their cross-country skiing
athletes.
Baseball
Alaska Goldpanners
This local minor-league team has an avid following, and
their most popular game each year is the Midnight Sun
Invitational, on June 21. The team, and their fans,
celebrate the summer solstice by playing a game without
artificial lights from 10:30 pm until after "high noon at
midnight." More celebration of the longest day of the year
at the Midnight Sun Festival includes 40-plus bands, a
midnight sun run, Yukon boat race, craft fair, car show, and
lots of food. Season runs June-August. US$6 for
general-admission tickets. 2010 Second Ave., Fairbanks.
Phone 907-451-0095. http://www.goldpanners.com.
Dog Racing
February is race month in Fairbanks. You can choose among
the annual Yukon Quest race between Fairbanks and Yukon
Territory, Canada; the Tesoro Iron Dog snowmobile race from
Wasilla to Nome to Fairbanks; Gold Run skijoring (sleddogs
pull skiers); and the annual Serum Run from Nenana to Nome.
Yukon Quest
This 1,000-mi/1,610-km endurance dogsled race stretches from
Fairbanks to Whitehorse in the Yukon Territory, Canada. The
trail follows historic routes, though the starting point
varies from year to year. The 10-day race is run in February
with up to 14 dogs battling frozen rivers, four mountain
ranges, subfreezing temperatures, and 100-mph/160-kph winds.
Fairbanks musher Lance Mackey is a legend for winning both
the Iditarod and the Yukon Quest in the same year. Souvenirs
can be purchased at the Fairbanks Community Museum, 410
Cushman St. Yukon Quest Office open Monday-Friday 9 am-5 pm.
Free. 600 Third St., Fairbanks. Phone 907-452-7954.
http://www.yukonquest.com.
Other Options
World Ice Art Championship
Go to see what competitors from around the world can do when
they take huge chunks of ice and over a span of 10 days turn
them into amazing creations. Past entries have presented
dragons, Cinderella and her carriage with horses, and many
other extraordinary scenes; ice slides and play equipment
are also created for children. There are about 180
sculptures created. Winter (late February-late March). US$10
adults for a day pass, US$5 children 6-12. 1925 Chena
Landing Loop Road, Fairbanks. Phone 907-451-8250.
http://www.icealaska.com.
Shopping
Fairbanks is widely known as a gold-rush town, and to prove
it, there are numerous jewelry stores touting "gold-nugget"
jewelry. Though it would be wonderful if you could find your
own nugget on a local gold-mine tour, chances are that if
you want to take a nugget home you're going to have to buy
one.
Another distinctly Alaskan item is baleen, the thin, hard
and black substance made of densely packed hairs that come
from a whale's mouth. These pieces sometimes have
scrimshawed or etched pictures of Alaskan scenes on them,
particularly of dogsledding or Eskimo life. Baleen is very
difficult to obtain, and the larger the piece (sometimes
longer than 18 ft/6 m) the more expensive it is. Only Alaska
Natives are allowed to own baleen that is not scrimshawed or
made into an art and craft.
Jade and ivory are also valuable Alaskan items—the ivory is
particularly precious because of hunting and ownership
regulations. You'll also be likely to come across items in
your shopping excursions such as mementos of the
Trans-Alaska Pipeline, smoked salmon, dried wild berries and
items made of qiviut (musk-ox hair).
Downtown Fairbanks is a good place to start your shopping.
Most stores offer shipping out of the state and country.
Shopping Hours: Generally daily 9 or 10 am-8 or 9 pm in
summer; winter hours are generally Monday-Saturday 10 am-6
pm.
Antique Stores
Elegant Memories Antiques
Antiques and collectibles from Alaska and beyond. Open
Tuesday-Saturday noon-6 pm. 212 Lacey St., Fairbanks. Phone
907-374-9939.
Bookstores
Alaska Natural History Association Bookstore
This is part of the Alaska Public Lands Center, which
provides various programs about Alaska and trip planning, as
well as information about such things as public lands and
bear safety. The Alaska Natural History Association
Bookstore offers a nice selection of mostly nonfiction
Alaskan literature, beautiful landscape posters, educational
materials and more. You may also order books online at
http://www.alaskanha.org. Open daily 9 am-6 pm Memorial
Day-Labor Day. Winter hours are 10 am-5 pm Tuesday-Saturday.
Free. Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center, 101
Dunkel St., Fairbanks. Phone 907-456-0527. Toll-free
866-869-6887. http://www.nps.gov/aplic/about_us/faplic.html.
Gulliver's Books
The farthest north independent bookstore in Alaska says it
has it all: "food for the mind and food for the body." In
addition to the bookstore, there's a second-story cafe with
breakfast, an espresso bar, wraps, sandwiches and soups. A
new store opened across the parking lot called Gulliver's
Annex where bargain books and remainders are sold. Open
Monday-Friday 9 am-9 pm, Saturday 9 am-8 pm, Sunday 11 am-6
pm. 3525 College Road, Fairbanks. Phone 907-474-9574.
Toll-free 800-390-8999. http://www.gullivers-books.com.
Galleries
New Horizons Gallery
With prints, glassware, sculptures, paintings, books and
pottery for sale, this gallery offers a way to take a piece
of the Alaskan landscape home with you. It also sells ivory
and jade pieces. Custom framing is also available. Open
June-August Monday-Friday 10 am-7 pm, Saturday 10 am-6 pm,
Sunday noon-5 pm. Winter hours are Monday-Saturday 10 am-6
pm, Sunday noon-5 pm. 519 First Ave., Fairbanks. Phone
907-456-2063. Toll-free 866-456-2063.
http://www.newhorizonsgallery.com.
The Alaska House Art Gallery
A charming gallery housed in a hand-built and now restored
log cabin. Inside are Alaskan art paintings, ivory pieces,
metal sculptures, custom jewelry, Native masks, woven baleen
baskets and more from the best-known Alaskan artists. A
special exhibit features Alaska Inupiat and Yupik dolls. The
Web site features an online store. Whether you're
window-shopping or buying, it's a memorable stop. Open
mid-May to mid-September Monday-Saturday 11 am-7 pm. Winter
hours are Tuesday-Saturday 11 am-6 pm. 1003 Cushman St.,
Fairbanks. Phone 907-456-6449.
http://www.thealaskahouse.com.
Specialty Stores
Alaskan Gold Rush Fine Jewelry
For more than 25 years, this jeweler has offered jewelry,
including engagement and wedding rings, featuring Alaskan
gold nuggets. Sells diamonds and colored stones from around
the world, and does jewelry cleaning and repair. Visitors
can watch as artisans in the store's workshop create
original pieces of jewelry. "If you can imagine it," they
say, "we can make it." Open year-round Monday-Saturday 9
am-6 pm. 531 Second Ave., Fairbanks. Phone 907-456-4991.
http://www.goldrushfinejewelry.com.
Arctic Traveler's Gift Shop
"The most complete gift shop in the interior," according to
its manager, sells exquisite Alaska Native artwork (baskets,
beaded slippers, mammoth ivory, jewelry, carvings)
incongruously alongside belt-buckle mementos made from
pieces of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline (Alaska-made products).
In business since 1955, this is your stop for ancient ivory
or a US$10 T-shirt. With 24-hour notice, the staff will
provide an educational hands-on explanation of Alaska Native
products. Summer hours mid-May to mid-September
Monday-Saturday 9 am-9 pm, Sunday 10 am-6 pm. Winter hours
mid-September to mid-May Monday-Saturday 10 am-6 pm, Sunday
10 am-5 pm. 201 Cushman St., Fairbanks. Phone 907-456-7080.
http://www.arctictravelersgiftshop.com.
Beaver Sports
This store was started by a local cross-country ski coach
and features skis, paddlesport equipment, bikes and
sportswear. Monday-Saturday 10 am-7 pm, Sunday 11 am-5 pm.
3480 College Road, Fairbanks. Phone 907-479-2494.
http://www.beaversports.com.
Expressions in Glass
Enjoy beautiful hand-blown pieces by one of Alaska's own
artists. Demonstrations are available daily, and resident
artists can create custom items. Visitors can join daily
one-hour classes. This shop also carries some artwork from
international artists, including window art, jewelry, vases,
bowls and more. Monday-Friday 10 am-6 pm, Saturday 10 am-5
pm, Sunday noon-4 pm. 1922 Peger Road, Fairbanks. Phone
907-474-3923. http://www.expressionsinglass.net.
If Only ... a fine store
Items in this store have an Alaskan theme or were at least
made in the state. You'll find journals, frames, jewelry,
Alaskan toys, soaps and much more. Surprisingly, the place
isn't kitschy. It's a great place to browse for quality
gifts at decent prices. 215 Cushman St., Fairbanks. Phone
907-457-6659.
Inua Wool Shoppe
Specialty knitting, crochet and spinning shop with
natural-fiber yarns, including qiviut (musk-ox wool).
There's a Knit Night and classes. Open Monday-Saturday 11
am-6 pm. 3180 Peger Road, Suite 160, Fairbanks. Phone
907-479-5830. http://www.inuawool.com.
Raven Mad
Touting a sign that suggests you "leave the dog team out
back," Raven Mad carries a mixture of gifts and edibles.
Choose from Alaska Wild Berry products, such as chocolates,
jams, reindeer and salmon jerky, or find Eskimo ulu knives,
lotions, handcrafted mugs and serving items, T-shirts and
glassware. 535 Second Ave., Co-op Plaza, Fairbanks. Phone
907-455-7623.
Steamboat Landing
Nestled along the Chena River in a turn-of-the-century
building, this gift shop has something for everyone. Hunt
through the Christmas ornaments, salmon-painted butter-knife
sets, Alaskan switch plates, mailboxes and more. It also
offers distinctive, high-quality clothing, soap and lotion
products, and an assortment of quirky bear and moose items.
There's also a Susan Butcher Dog Mushing Gallery (in honor
of the Iditarod winner). Mid-May to mid-September daily 8
am-6 pm. You can also shop online. 1975 Discovery Drive,
Fairbanks. Phone 907-479-6673. Toll-free 866-479-6673.
http://www.riverboatdiscovery.com.
Taylor's Gold-N-Stones
Carries Alaska gemstones, including some mined in the Brooks
Range, as well as colored stones from around the world.
Offers repair and cleaning services as well. Teddy Bear
Plaza, Fairbanks. Phone 907-456-8369.
http://www.taylorsgold.com.
The Craft Market Gift Shop
Offers reasonably priced options for those looking to find a
local cultural treasure. The store is housed in one of
Fairbanks' earliest homes, built in 1910. Watch the artists
work and browse the selection of Native baskets, ulu knives,
soapstone carvings, and beadwork and ivory items. It also
has a free museum-style room filled with ancient Alaskan
artifacts not for sale. 401 Fifth Ave., Fairbanks. Phone
907-452-5495.
Itinerary
Day Trips
To North Pole. Head to North Pole, Alaska, just 12 mi/19 km
southeast of Fairbanks on the Richardson Highway, and enjoy
some Christmas spirit. The Santa Claus House has been
sending kids reply letters from Santa Claus for decades.
This fun stop offers several great photo opportunities and
serves as a gift shop filled to the brim with Christmas
goodies. Santa's sleigh is parked out front, and the
reindeer graze just beyond. Be sure to get your postcard
stamped, "North Pole, Alaska."
To Barrow. Referred to locally as "The Top of the World,"
Barrow is on the northern tip of Alaska (approximately 90
minutes' flight time from Fairbanks) and abuts the Arctic
Ocean. One-day trips are offered via several operators.
Tours generally include a trip to the city's lovely museum,
possible glimpses of polar bears (not unusual in the city,
particularly in winter) and Inupiat Eskimo performers
sharing their culture.
Local Tours
Arctic ATV Tours
On trips ranging from four hours to three days, you can
drive your own ATV along trails northeast of Fairbanks or to
the remote Circle Mining District. US$185-$1,200. 1500
McGrath Road, Fairbanks. Phone 907-479-0027.
http://www.arcticatvtours.com.
Greatland River Tours
Offers a river cruise with dinner and a different view of
the beautiful Chena River aboard a replica of the
sternwheeler Tanana Chief. The trip is also an excellent
opportunity to learn some of the historic aspects of the
city and the surrounding area. Boarding for the dinner
cruise, a white-tablecloth buffet, begins nightly at 6:30 in
summer. US$24.95-$49.95 with dinner. 1020 Hoselton Road,
Fairbanks. Phone 907-452-8687. Toll-free 866-452-8687.
http://www.greatlandrivertours.com/glrtsscruise.html.
Hummer Tours
Visit the Alaska Pipeline and Creamer's Migratory Bird
Refuge on an unmaintained road. US$129 adults, US $69
children under 12. Toll-free 888-386-4648.
http://www.alaskanhummertours.com.
Northern Alaska Tour Company
This company offers Arctic Circle fly/drive adventures. A
one-day guided tour of Barrow combines round-trip flight in
a nine-passenger aircraft with a van tour of North America's
northernmost community for US$699. The flight through the
Gates of the Arctic National Park and tour of Anaktuvuk Pass
village is US$459. An Arctic Circle driving tour is US$169.
Guided ground tour, flight, and overnight accommodations in
the Brooks Range is US$399. These and other tours available
mid-May to mid-September. Also, you can enjoy a prime rib or
steak meal before floating down the Chena river for US$159.
3820 S. University Ave., Fairbanks. Phone 907-474-8600.
Toll-free 800-474-1986. http://www.northernalaska.com.
Riverboat Discovery
The tour aboard a sternwheeler includes stops to watch a
bush plane take off and land, a visit to the home and
kennels of an Iditarod winner, a stop at an authentic Alaska
Native village (with live, costumed guides and
demonstrations) and much more. This cruise tour can be
combined with the El Dorado Gold Mine Tour, which is offered
by the same company. Tours depart daily at 8:45 am and 2 pm.
Early reservations are a must. US$49.95 adults, US$34.95
children ages 3-12. 1975 Discovery Drive, Fairbanks. Phone
907-479-6673. Toll-free 866-479-6673.
http://www.riverboatdiscovery.com.
River's Edge Resort Historical City Tour
The Fairbanks Historical City Tour takes you by bus to the
Trans-Alaska Pipeline, the University of Alaska, the
Fairbanks Museum, the Alaska Public Lands Information
Center, historic points in the downtown area and more. Tours
offered daily 8:30 am-noon 1 June-1 September. The fee
includes admission to all stops along the way. US$26.95
adults, US$10 children under 12. 4200 Boat St., Fairbanks.
Phone 907-474-0286. http://www.riversedge.net.
Walking Tour of Historic Fairbanks
This walking tour uses MP3 players and a walking-tour
booklet. The tour begins in front of the Fairbanks Log Cabin
Visitors Center. Tour topics include tales of gold-rush
prospectors, bush pilots and other colorful early residents.
Phone 907-457-7834. http://www.explorefairbanks.com.
Dining
Dining Overview
Just a 50-minute flight from the port city of Anchorage,
Fairbanks is a great place to get fresh seafood. Still,
restaurants offer plenty of red meat and a number of fine
options. Asian cuisine is popular in Fairbanks, which can be
a nice way to have a lighter meal or find some vegetarian
options.
Although there are quite a few restaurants in the downtown
area, some of the best choices are farther from the city
center. Each of these is worth the cab fare or driving time,
so go explore and enjoy the Golden Heart City with a full
stomach.
Expect to pay within these general guidelines, based on the
cost of a dinner for one, not including drinks, tax or tip:
$ = less than US$10; $$ = US$10-$20; $$$ = US$21-$50; and
$$$$ = more than US$50.
Local & Regional
Felix's Cookhouse
Popular with local businesspeople for lunch meetings,
Felix's serves large portions of hearty foods. Have steak
and eggs for breakfast, roast-beef sandwiches for lunch or
an old-fashioned prime-rib roast for dinner. Daily for
breakfast, lunch and dinner. Reservations not accepted. $$.
Visa and MasterCard. 1521 S. Cushman St. (inside the Best
Western Fairbanks Inn), Fairbanks. Phone 907-456-6602.
http://www.bestwesternalaska.com/fairbanks-hotels.
Hot Licks Homemade Ice Cream
This locally made ice cream, a first-place winner at the Los
Angeles County Fair, features Alaska blueberries,
cranberries and birch syrup. Try the Aurora Borealis or
Boreal Bliss. Open year-round inside the Best Western
Fairbanks Inn. 1521 S. Cushman St. (in summer also at 3453
College Road), Fairbanks. Phone 907-479-7813.
http:www.hotlicks.net.
The Pump House
This location, a National Historic Site, has wowed its
guests since 1933. It's received the DiRoNa Award, putting
it in an elite class of specially noted North American
restaurants. Start with seviche or the oyster bar and move
on to prime rib, crab, crab-stuffed shrimp or several unique
musk-oxen and reindeer entrees. If possible, try the Sunday
brunch. Daily for lunch and dinner. Reservations
recommended. $$$. Most major credit cards. 796 Chena Pump
Road, Fairbanks. Phone 907-479-8452.
http://www.pumphouse.com.
The Turtle Club
If you want to see a local smile, just mention this
restaurant. Its simple, rustic interior houses one of
Fairbanks' favorite salad bars, and it serves delicious
prime rib and seafood. Located 10 mi/16 km north of
Fairbanks on New Steese Expressway, it's not easy to get to,
but it's always busy. Choose from escargot, lobster tail,
barbecued ribs, king crab, prawns and more. Full bar
on-site. Daily for dinner. Reservations recommended. $$$.
Most major credit cards. Milepost 10 on Old Steese Highway,
Fairbanks. Phone 907-457-3883. http://www.alaskanturtle.com.
Wolf Run Restaurant
This rustic house has been converted to a restaurant with a
central fireplace and small dining rooms. A patio is
available in summer. Lunch delights range from croissant
sandwiches with snappy wasabi-dressed coleslaw to homemade
soups. Dinner choices include halibut or surf-and-turf
entrees, as well as beef Wellington and stuffed ravioli.
Desserts are scrumptious: Don't miss the four-layer
chocolate torte or key-lime tart. Monday for lunch,
Tuesday-Sunday for lunch and dinner. Reservations
recommended. $$-$$$. Most major credit cards. 3360 Wolf Run,
Fairbanks. Phone 907-458-0636.
Cuisines
American
Big Daddy's Bar-B-Q
The northernmost southern barbecue, Big Daddy's offers
sandwiches, seafood, award-winning barbecue and a Sunday
buffet, plus live blues and rock 'n' roll music on Thursday,
Friday and Saturday nights. $$-$$$. Accepts Visa and
MasterCard. 107 Wickersham St., Fairbanks. Phone
907-452-2501.
Players Grill
It may not be Texas style, but it's mighty fine barbecue.
Breakfast staples include steak and eggs. For lunch, you can
choose from a pull-apart pork sandwich, Kansas City pork
ribs, spicy Cajun rub chicken, homemade soups and
traditional Mexican dishes. Dinner options also include
Alaskan Ale House halibut hunks and Alaskan wild-salmon
fillets. Monday-Saturday for lunch and dinner. Reservations
not accepted. $$. Visa and MasterCard. 126 N. Turner St.
(downtown), Fairbanks. Phone 907-456-7427.
Asian
Asiana Restaurant
Inside this two-story green structure you'll find teriyaki,
Korean, Vietnamese and Filipino cuisine. Local Asian food
lovers flock to this place for its deep-fried pork dong
katsu, kimchi soups, octopus stir-fry and a great assortment
of dumplings, seafood and teriyaki skewers. Daily for lunch
and dinner. Reservations not accepted. $$. Visa and
MasterCard. 2001 Airport Way, Fairbanks. Phone 907-457-3333.
Bahn Thai
With offerings such as pad thai (stir-fry) and moo yang
(grilled marinated pork), this restaurant in the heart of
downtown Fairbanks is popular with Thai-food lovers and
vegetarians. Daily specials. Monday-Saturday 11 am-9:30 pm.
$$. Accepts Visa and MasterCard. 541 Third Ave., Fairbanks.
Phone 907-452-8424.
IchiBan Noodle
This bright-purple restaurant north of the Chena River is a
blessing for noodle lovers. Its vegetarian specials include
stir-fried veggies with tofu. Combination plates include
spicy squid and pork bul go gi in Ichiban sauce. Sample the
jjang bbong spicy soup or the special rice-cake soup with
dumplings. Monday-Saturday for lunch and dinner.
Reservations not accepted. $$. Visa and MasterCard. 400
College Road, Fairbanks. Phone 907-455-9116.
Italian
Gambardella's Pasta Bella
A popular date spot, this Italian eatery has a cozy interior
and a reserved ambience, with soft Italian ballads sometimes
playing in the background, plus river views. Dinner options
include a blue-cheese pear salad, a hearty filet mignon and
such vegetarian specials as eggplant Parmesan and spinach
lasagna. A nice wine menu includes Italian, Australian,
Californian and Washington selections. Gourmet pizzas are
also available. Monday-Saturday for lunch and dinner, Sunday
for dinner only. Reservations recommended. $$$. Most major
credit cards. 706 Second Ave., Fairbanks. Phone
907-457-4992. http://www.gambardellas.com.
Lavelle's Bistro
This restaurant in the Springhill Suites Hotel has an
outstanding wine selection: You can choose from a list of
3,000 vintages. Inventive menu offerings are paired with
wine suggestions. Its mango creme brulee is a perennial
favorite. The softly lit tables fill quickly, so make
reservations early. Every Wednesday, three wines are chosen
for a tasting that is paired with appetizers. Daily for
lunch and dinner. Reservations recommended. $$-$$$. Most
major credit cards. 575 First Ave., Fairbanks. Phone
907-450-0555. http://www.lavellesbistro.com.
Vallata
The comfortable setting is complemented by views of
Goldstream Valley, and there's usually soft acoustic guitar
playing Italian melodies in the background. Vallata
specializes in steaks, but you'll also find gourmet pizzas
and Mediterranean-style seafood dishes. Tuesday-Sunday for
dinner. Reservations recommended. $$-$$$. Most major credit
cards. 2190 Goldstream Road, Fairbanks. Phone 907-455-6600.
Breakfast & Brunch
The Cookie Jar
Since 1986, this "breakfast served all day" location has
specialized in hearty Alaskan-style breakfasts, which means
biscuits and gravy, reindeer sausages and oversized
servings. There's lighter fare in the fresh cinnamon rolls
and espresso bar. For the rest of the day, you'll find
prime-rib sandwiches—a local favorite—halibut fish-and-chips
and seafood pastas. Fairbanks residents have voted this the
best breakfast and family restaurant. Be sure to leave room
for the cookies. Daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Reservations not accepted. $. Most major credit cards. 1006
Cadillac Court, Fairbanks. Phone 907-479-8319.
http://www.cookiejarfairbanks.com.
Cafes & Tearooms
The Fudge Pot
This eatery is popular for its lighter fare, including
homemade soups and sandwiches, but it's the right place for
dessert, too. Thirty flavors of fudge should satisfy your
cravings, and its gourmet coffee concoctions will get you on
the go again. Shop while you eat and pick up a gift of fudge
or a Fairbanks T-shirt. Daily for breakfast, lunch and
dinner. Reservations not accepted. $. Most major credit
cards. 515 First Ave., Fairbanks. Phone 907-456-3834.
http://www.ptialaska.net/~fudgepot.
Seafood
Alaska Salmon Bake
This all-you-can-eat buffet includes deep-fried halibut,
king salmon, cod and prime rib, along with salad, sides and
dessert. Food is served outdoors in Pioneer Park's Mining
Valley. That's near the historic Palace Theater & Saloon in
Pioneer Park's Gold Rush Town, so after dinner you can stay
for the show, nightly at 8:15. Memorial Day-Labor Day daily
for dinner. Reservations required. $$$. The children's menu
prices range US$6.50-$15. Most major credit cards. 2300
Airport Way, Fairbanks. Phone 907-452-7274.
http://www.akvisit.com.
Pikes Landing
Adjacent to the Chena River, this restaurant offers lovely
views of the water from its elegant dining room. Choices
include smoked-salmon Caesar salad, king-crab legs, prime
rib and cedar-planked salmon. It also has a good wine list.
In the summer, there's outdoor dining available on a patio
along the Chena River. Daily for lunch and dinner.
Reservations recommended. $$-$$$. Most major credit cards.
4438 Airport Way, Fairbanks. Phone 907-479-6500.
Steak Houses
Red Lantern Steak & Spirits
In the Westmark Hotel on Eighth and Noble, the Red Lantern
specializes in finely aged steaks and prime rib, with
specials such as a Jack Daniel's marinated filet mignon.
Starters include onion soup and smoked-salmon artichoke dip.
In addition to beef, it also offers roasted pork-loin,
halibut and prawn entrees. Daily for lunch and dinner.
$$-$$$. Most major credit cards. 813 Noble St., Fairbanks.
Phone 907-459-7725. http://www.westmarkhotels.com.
Security
Personal Safety
Fairbanks is a safe destination, and tourists are rarely
targets of crime. Still, use commonsense precautions, such
as locking your car and keeping valuables out of sight.
There is no particular crime district in Fairbanks. Daytime
hours are safe in any area, but it is always advisable to
walk with others particularly downtown in the early morning
hours and at night—despite the late hours of sunlight. There
are some local pesty panhandlers, but they haven't caused
any problems.
Health
Servicing interior Alaska as well as 86,000 local-area
residents, Fairbanks' medical facilities differ slightly
from others in that they care for population areas hundreds
of miles/kilometers distant and accessible only by air.
Emergency transport includes the typical city ambulances as
well as fixed-wing aircraft that aid in the emergency
retrieval of patients from outlying villages. The Fairbanks
Memorial Hospital at 1650 Cowles St. is open daily with
24-hour service. Phone 907-452-8181.
Outpatient needs are served by the walk-in Fairbanks Urgent
Care Center at 1867 Airport Way (phone 907-452-2178) and the
appointment-needed Fairbanks Regional Public Health Center
at 1025 W. Barnette. Phone 907-452-1776.
Pharmacies include the three Fred Meyer/Kroger grocery-chain
locations, the Prescription Center Pharmacy at 1919 Lathrop
St., the Fairbanks Professional Pharmacy at 1001 Noble St.
and the Medical Center Pharmacy at 1867 Airport Way.
Pharmacies tend to be open Monday-Saturday 10 am-7 pm at the
grocery stores and 10 am-6 pm at other locations.
Disabled Advisory
Summer is definitely the friendliest time for people with
disabilities to enjoy Fairbanks. Despite the city's best
efforts, winter sidewalks are nearly always under snow.
However, the MACS bus system offers special vans to
transport travelers with disabilities through the VanTran
program (phone 907-459-1010 or go to
http://co.fairbanks.ak.us/Transportation).
Public buildings throughout the city have been brought up to
ADA codes, as have most sightseeing and recreation venues.
To be certain, call ahead before you go, but in most
locations, there will be ramps and railings.
Dos & Don'ts
Do remember that polar bears live in the Arctic, not in
Fairbanks. Grizzly bears, interior brown bears and black
bears live around Fairbanks. Penguins are in Antarctica.
Don't ask "When do the caribou turn into moose?" or "What
time do the northern lights turn on?"
Alaskans have heard the jokes before.
Do make an effort to understand the differences among the
native peoples. Northern Eskimos are Inuit or Inupiat;
southern Eskimos are Yupik. Both live near oceans.
Athabaskans are Alaska Native Indians and live in the
Interior, including Fairbanks. Also, remember to use the
term Alaska Natives for the indigenous people and native
Alaskans for non-Natives.
Don't call it Mount McKinley, even though that's the
official name. Denali, "the great one," is the Athabaskan
and the preferred Alaska name for the mountain, which lends
its name to the national park.
Do get out of Fairbanks and visit Denali National Park or
Nenana or the North Pole.
Do drive the Steese Highway, which ends at the tiny
Athabascan village of Circle.
Don't miss seeing the largest public display of gold in
Alaska at the University of Alaska Museum of the North.
Don't stand out as a tourist by mispronouncing Chena
(pronounced CHEE-nah) River and Tanana (Tan-naw-naw) River.
Do soak in the Chena natural hot springs.
Do collect certificates at the Visitor Information Center
for seeing the northern lights, traveling on the historic
Alaska highway, and crossing the Arctic Circle.
Hotels
Hotel Overview
The majority of hotels are located downtown, with several
options near the airport and on the banks of the Chena
River. The typical range of facilities is available,
including most large chains as well as some small
boutique-style hotels, lodges and bed-and-breakfasts. Summer
season is the busiest time for hotel occupancy, so you
should book ahead for rooms needed mid-May to early
September. Visitations also increase in February for the
Yukon Quest and in March for the World Ice Art Championship.
Hotel Listings
Phone: (1) 907-328-6300
Fax: (1) 907-328-0914
Toll Free: (1) 800-455-8851
Alpine Lodge
4920 Dale Rd 99709
ytemple@akalpinelodge.com http://www.akalpinelodge.com
115 Guest Rooms • 2 Meeting Rooms • Restaurant[s]
Location: Alpine Lodge located 1/4 mile from Fairbanks Intl
Airport
Nearby Points of Interest: Univeristy of Alaska, Fairbanks
(Museum) - 8 mi • Carlson Conference Center (Conference
Center) - 10 mi • State of Alaska, Offices (State of Alaska)
- 10 km
Phone: (1) 907-488-7855
Fax: (1) 907-488-3772
Toll Free: (1)
A Taste of Alaska Lodge
551 Eberhardt Rd 99712
tasteak@mosquitonet.com http://www.atasteofalaska.com
10 Guest Rooms • 3 Meeting Rooms • Restaurant[s]
Nearby Points of Interest:
Phone: (1) 907-452-1888
Fax: (1) 907-452-7674
Toll Free: (1) 800-544-7528
The Captain Bartlett Inn
1411 Airport Way 99701
cbi@ptialaska.net http://www.captainbartlettinn.com
197 Guest Rooms • 4 Meeting Rooms • Restaurant[s]
Location: 1 mi west of downtown & 4 mi from airport
Nearby Points of Interest: Alaskaland (Theme Park) - 1
mi • Riverboat Discovery • Ester Gold Camp
Phone: (1) 907-451-8104
Fax: (1) 907-451-8151
Toll Free: (1) 800-478-4681
Chena Hot Springs Resort
56.5 mile Chena Hot Springs Rd 99725
chenahs@polarnet.com http://www.chenahotsprings.com
94 Guest Rooms • 3 Meeting Rooms • Restaurant[s] • Pets
Allowed
Location: 65 mi from airport
Nearby Points of Interest: Angel Rocks Trail (Hiking trail)
- 6 mi • Chena River State Recreational Park (State Park) -
3 mi
Phone: (1) 907-455-4477
Fax: (1) 907-455-4476
Toll Free: (1) 800-426-0500
Fairbanks Princess Riverside Lodge
4477 Pikes Landing Rd 99709
aklodges@princesstours.com http://www.princesslodges.com
325 Guest Rooms • 6 Meeting Rooms • Restaurant[s]
Location: Riverside, 1 mi from airport
Nearby Points of Interest: The Riverboat Discovery
Cruise • University of Alaska Museum • Trans-Alaska Pipeline
Phone: (1) 907-456-4500
Fax: (1) 907-456-4515
Toll Free: (1) 877-774-2400
Pikes Waterfront Lodge
1850 Hoselton Rd 99709
info@pikeslodge.com http://www.pikeslodge.com
208 Guest Rooms • 3 Meeting Rooms • Restaurant[s] • Pets
Allowed
Nearby Points of Interest:
Phone: (1) 907-452-3200
Fax: (1) 907-452-6505
Toll Free: (1) 800-348-1340
Regency Fairbanks Hotel
95 Tenth Ave 99701
info@regencyfairbankshotel.com http://www.regencyfairbankshotel.com
130 Guest Rooms • 3 Meeting Rooms • Restaurant[s] • Pets
Allowed
Location: In downtown area
Nearby Points of Interest: Trans Alaska Pipe Line - 8 mi
Phone: (1) 907-451-6552
Fax: (1) 907-451-6553
Toll Free: (1) 888-287-9400
SpringHill Suites by Marriott
575 1st Ave 99701-4724
http://www.springhillsuites.com
140 Guest Rooms • 2 Meeting Rooms • Restaurant[s]
Nearby Points of Interest:
Phone: (1) 907-456-7722
Fax: (1) 907-451-7478
Toll Free: (1) 800-544-0970
Westmark Fairbanks Hotel & Conf Cntr
813 Noble St 99701
http://www.westmarkhotels.com
400 Guest Rooms • 5 Meeting Rooms • Restaurant[s]
Nearby Points of Interest: Fairbanks Ice Museum (Ice Art
Museum) - .5 mi • University of AK Museum (Museum) - 5
mi • Riverboat Discovery (Attraction) - 5 mi
Facts
Geostats
Passport/Visa Requirements: All U.S. citizens must have a
passport when traveling by air to or from Bermuda, Canada,
the Caribbean, Central and South America and Mexico.
Citizens of Canada, Mexico and the British Overseas
Territory of Bermuda also must have a passport or other
designated secure document to enter the U.S.
Beginning 1 June 2009, passports are required for land
crossings at the Canadian and Mexican borders with the U.S.
and for cruise passengers returning to the U.S. from Mexico,
the Caribbean, Canada or Bermuda. Reconfirm travel-document
requirements with your carrier prior to departure.
Population: 34,540.
Languages: English.
Predominant Religions: Christian (Protestant, Roman
Catholic), though other religions are represented.
Voltage Requirements: 110 volts.
Telephone Codes: 907,
Money
Currency Exchange
ATMs are widely available, and banking hours tend to be
Monday-Friday 10 am-5 pm. Some Saturday hours are available
and are typically 10 am-3 pm. All transactions are made in
U.S. dollars, and currency exchanges can be made at any
bank.
Taxes
There is no sales tax in Fairbanks. The town of North Pole
does charge a tax of 4% with a cap of US$8 in tax on any one
purchase. There is a bed tax of 8%.
Tipping
Waitstaff are typically given 15% of the total bill (more
for excellent service). Some restaurants include gratuities
in the bill. Other individuals who provide personal
services, such as tour guides, flightseeing pilots and taxi
drivers, are also commonly tipped US$1 per piece of luggage
and up to 10% of a tour price if you really enjoyed
yourself. These guidelines are not set in stone; tip what
you feel is appropriate.
Weather
This is clearly a land of extremes, with dramatic highs and
lows, a semi-arid climate and (usually) almost no wind.
Fairbanks can get up to 100 F/38 C in summer and dip below
-50 F/-46 C in winter.
There is approximately 21 hours of daylight in late June and
21 hours of darkness in late December.
With the heat comes a slight humidity and thunderstorms.
Annual precipitation is 11.3 in/28.7 cm, and average
snowfall is 65.5 in/166 cm. The coldest winter days will be
crystal clear with air so still your boots will squeak on
the snow. It's up to you which climate you prefer.
What to Wear
Fairbanks residents are a laid-back bunch, and you will not
be turned away for being underdressed. There is rarely an
event held in Fairbanks that has a dress code—unless you
count the Golden Days Celebration parade (when you might be
required to dress as a gold miner, trapper or good-time
girl).
In summer, take along several long-sleeved items, as well as
a sweatshirt and a lightweight coat that can double as a
slicker. Long sleeves are also good for protection from
mosquitoes, although they're typically not bothersome in the
city.
It isn't unheard of for temperatures to reach 100 F/38 C in
the summer, so take some lighter wear as well—shorts,
sandals, sunglasses, windbreakers and lightweight hiking
shoes—but don't count on the heat.
For business travelers, the best approach is to layer a
light coat over dress clothes.
In winter, extreme conditions dictate attire appropriate for
the Arctic: parkas, boots, snow pants, hats with ear
protection, mittens and sunglasses. Dress in layers
year-round.
Communication
Telephone
If you need directory assistance from any pay phone, simply
dial 411.
Telephone cards will work fine with any public phone and are
typically less expensive than charging phone calls to hotel
rooms.
Making phone calls from Fairbanks is the same as anywhere
else in the U.S. Dial a "1" before long-distance numbers.
Toll-free numbers have area codes of 800, 888 and 866.
Courtesy phones are available in the Morris Thompson
Cultural and Visitor Center.
Cell phone access is sporadic, depending on location and
provider.
Internet Access
Many downtown cafes have Internet access, including the Two
Street Station next door to the Co-op Mall on Second Avenue,
the cafe in Gulliver's Bookstore near the university and at
Barnes & Noble bookstore.
Most chain hotels offer Internet access. Wi-Fi access is
available at some hotels and the public library.
http://library.fnsb.lib.ak.us.
In addition, the Visitor Information Center has free
Internet access.
Mail & Package Services
U.S. Post Office
The downtown post office, at 315 Barnette St., offers
standard or overnight services for packages. Open
Monday-Friday 9:30 am-5:30 pm. The main post office is at
5400 Mail Trail Road, open Monday-Friday 9:30 am-8 pm.
The university branch is at 4025 Geist Road, open
Monday-Friday 10 am-6 pm, Saturday 11 am-3 pm.
The North Pole post office, 325 Santa Claus Lane, is open
Monday-Friday 9 am-5 pm. Saturday 10 am-2 pm. Phone
907-927-2238. http://www.usps.com.
Newspapers & Magazines
The Fairbanks Daily News-Miner is the primary newspaper for
the city of Fairbanks. Phone 907-456-6661.
http://www.newsminer.com.
The university also puts out a newspaper during the school
year, and the Northstar Weekly from North Pole is a free
paper for local news only.
Transportation
The Fairbanks International Airport, the only airport in
Fairbanks for commercial planes, offers multiple daily
flights to Seattle, Washington, as well as nonstop service
to Minneapolis, Minnesota, during the summer months. All of
the major airlines fly to Fairbanks, with Alaska Airlines
offering the most daily flights.
Within the downtown area, walking is a convenient way to get
around town because it's flat, and no point in the downtown
portion of the city is more than 10 blocks in any direction.
Rental cars are readily available and reasonably priced at
the airport. Downtown parking is plentiful. A nice option in
summer is the city's MACS bus system (phone 907-459-1011;
http://www.co.fairbanks.ak.us), which has a reliable and
convenient schedule. (In the winter, standing around waiting
for the bus can be dangerous because of the cold.) Clearly
marked schedules will help you access the city's many
sights. Purchase a US$3 day pass directly from drivers.
Air
The Fairbanks International Airport (FAI) is a small airport
with two levels, ample ticket counters and instant-ticket
and boarding-pass kiosks. It is located 6 mi/10 km south of
the city, and there are always lines of taxi cabs waiting to
serve you. Shuttle buses are also available—call for a
pickup if they're not out front. Phone 907-474-2500.
http://www.dot.state.ak.us/faiiap.
Connecting transportation:
Best way:
Several shuttle services including the Alpenglow Fairbanks
Shuttle will deliver you from the airport to downtown for
about US$7 per trip. Many hotels offer complimentary airport
shuttles. Phone toll-free 800-770-2267.
http://www.alaskashuttle.com.
Other options:
A cab fare from the airport to downtown is about US$18. The
MACS bus system provides rides to or from the airport for
US$1.50 on the yellow line, although depending on your
luggage and the location of your hotel, this could be an
inconvenient option.
Bus
There is no intercity bus service except what is offered by
MACS to and from North Pole, Alaska (12 mi/19 km southeast
of Fairbanks).
Car
Rental cars are readily available from the airport and other
locations. Traffic is never much of an issue. Some downtown
streets are unexpected half-blocks and one-ways, but this is
a city that's friendly to visiting drivers. There is plenty
of parking downtown along streets and in several parking
garages. Speed limits are similar to those in the lower 48
states.
If you plan to take the car off pavement, check out
Alamo/National franchise (toll-free 800-227-7368), which
rents four-door, four-wheel-drive pickup trucks for
travelling on gravel roads, or GoNorth Alaska Adventure
Travel Center (toll-free 866-236-7272;
http://www.gonorthalaska.com), which rents SUVs, trucks and
campers.
Public Transportation
MACS
Five different bus lines merge at the downtown transit park
and will take passengers throughout the city and to nearby
North Pole. Schedules vary but most begin around 6 am and
end about 8 pm. There is no service on Sunday. Schedules are
posted at the transit centers, in the buses and at mall bus
stops. Fares run US$1.50 adults per ride. Day passes are
US$3 (you may purchase these at a transit center or from the
bus driver). 501 Cushman St., Fairbanks. Phone 907-459-1011.
Taxi
Taxis may be hailed by stepping outside the terminal at the
airport, by using concierge services at your hotel or by
calling one of the services posted around the downtown area.
They are readily available and plentiful at public venues.
Train
Alaska Railroad Fairbanks Depot
Utilized solely by the Alaska Railroad, this depot serves
the many tourists who arrive in Fairbanks via rail. As a
slower mode of transportation, it rarely sees local riders
but offers a remarkably scenic and convenient option to
those visiting Alaska. Mid-May to September daily 6 am-10
pm, October to mid-May Monday-Saturday 10 am-5 pm. You can
travel to Denali National Park for US$59 adults, US$30
children June-early September. Rates are lower during
off-peak season. 1745 Johansen Expressway, Fairbanks. Phone
907-458-6025. http://www.alaskarailroad.com.
For More Information
Recommended Guidebooks
Fairbanks Visitors Guide and Fairbanks Winter Guide.
Fairbanks Convention and Visitors Bureau. Available at
http://www.explorefairbanks.com. Free.
Additional Reading
These are available from your local bookseller or from the
online store at http://www.alaskanha.org.
Fairbanks: Alaska's Heart of Gold by Tricia Brown (Graphic
Arts Publishing).
A Wildlife Guide: Denali National Park and Preserve
(Companion Press).
Alaska: A Photographic Excursion by Mary Kelley and Nick
Jans (Mark Kelley).
Amazing Pipeline Stories by Dermot Cole (Alaska Natural
History Association).
Fairbanks. Vol. 22, No. 1, Alaska Geographic. Available from
Alaska Natural History Association.
These are available from Graphic Arts Center Publishing at
http://www.gapcp.com.
Alaska Almanac, edited by Nancy Gates (Alaska Northwest
Books).
Recess at 20 Below by Cindy Lou Aillaud (Alaska Northwest
Books).
Tourist Offices
Alaska Public Lands Information Center
This information center offers maps, one-on-one guidance,
published resources and more to help you plan your time in
Interior Alaska. Park Service employees and interns are
there to assist you in discovering some of the available
options. May-September daily 9 am-5 pm; October-April
Tuesday-Saturday 10 am-6 pm. Morris Thompson Cultural and
Visitors Center, 101 Dunkel Street, Fairbanks. Phone
907-456-0527. http://www.nps.gov/aplic/about_us/faplic.html.
Fairbanks Log Cabin Visitors Center
This small log cabin, with a sod roof, holds oodles of
brochures and pamphlets on dining, entertainment, tours,
sightseeing and more. The friendly staff will assist you
with recommendations and directions as needed. May-September
daily 8 am-8 pm, October-April Monday-Saturday 10 am-5 pm.
550 First St., Fairbanks. Phone 907-456-5774. Toll-free
800-327-5774. http://www.explorefairbanks.com.
Events
Calendar
Fairbanks doesn't let cold weather keep it from celebrating.
Events throughout the year attract locals and visitors
alike, from the Yukon Quest Race (February) and the World
Ice Art Championship (March) to the Arctic Man Ski & Sno-Go
(April).
In warm weather, there's the Summer Music Festival, the
Goldpanner's Midnight Sun Festival and Baseball Game (June),
the Golden Days Celebration, the World Eskimo Olympics (both
in July) and the Tanana Valley State Fair (August). The year
wraps up with the Winter Solstice Celebration in December.
The Web site http://www.explorefairbanks.com maintains an
up-to-date calendar of events and activities around
Fairbanks.
Homer, Alaska
Overview
Introduction
A fishing center and artists' colony on the Kenai Peninsula,
Homer sits on Kachemak Bay 226 mi/361 km southwest of
Anchorage among some of the most beautiful scenery in
south-central Alaska.
The area is well-known for fishing: Homer lands more halibut
than any other port in North America, and salmon
fishing—both commercial and sport—is also important. Many
charter companies offer fishing trips. The boats leave from
the harbor on the Homer Spit, a long, thin peninsula that
extends more than 4 mi/6 km into the bay. Cruises and
ferries leave from there and cross the bay to Halibut Cove
and Seldovia.
The town is home to the Pratt Museum, an excellent natural
history museum, and the kitchen of Alaska Wild Berry
Products, which is a good place to shop for locally made
fudge, jellies, candies, smoked fish and Alaska souvenirs.
There are some wonderful art galleries that exhibit the work
of local artists.
To get a good look at the area scenery, take Skyline Drive,
which runs atop high bluffs near the town: It provides a
view of several large glaciers on the other side of Kachemak
Bay. When you're ready to head back toward Anchorage, you
may want to allot some extra time for your trip. Consider
stopping at Anchor Point (about 23 mi/37 km north of Homer)
for excellent razor clam digging. A good negative tide
brings out quite a group of diggers; pop by just to watch if
you don't have the gear. About 12 mi/19 km farther north is
the little town of Ninilchik. It has a beautiful Russian
Orthodox church built in 1901 that is still in use.
You should plan to stay two nights or more on your trek to
Homer to fully explore the area.
Hotels
Hotel Listings
Phone: (1) 907-235-8910
Fax: (1) 907-235-8911
Toll Free: (1)
Kachemak Bay Wilderness Lodge
China Poot Bay 99603
info@alaskawildernesslodge.com http://www.alaskawildernesslodge.com
4 Guest Rooms • Restaurant[s]
Location: On Kachemak Bay
Nearby Points of Interest:
Inside Passage, Alaska
Overview
Introduction
The Inside Passage is a protected seaway that stretches for
more than 1,000 mi/1,600 km between the coast of southeast
Alaska and a narrow string of islands to the west. It ends
in Skagway, about 90 mi/145 km north of Juneau. The waterway
has long been the favored sea route between Anchorage and
the cities of Seattle and Vancouver because it's much calmer
than the Pacific Ocean. It is also much shorter and easier
than going overland via the Alaska Highway. The Inside
Passage is the only link—other than by air—to Juneau,
Ketchikan and Sitka.
No visit to Alaska is complete without at least a four-day
cruise or ferry ride along the Inside Passage. There are a
number of ways to see this spectacular seaway. At the lower
end of the cost scale are the Alaska Marine Highway ferries,
which make runs of two, three or four days, stopping at
Ketchikan, Petersburg, Sitka, Juneau, Wrangell, Skagway and
Haines, among other towns. Passengers usually board the
ferries in Bellingham, Washington, or in Prince Rupert,
British Columbia. Another option is to take the BC Ferry
from Port Hardy on Vancouver Island to Prince Rupert and
connect there with an Alaska Marine Highway ferry.
On the upscale side, numerous cruise lines run more than 30
ships in Alaskan waters, most of them through the Inside
Passage. Those known as Inside Passage cruises usually begin
in Vancouver, British Columbia (though some ships begin in
Seattle and as far south as San Francisco), and include
stops at such southeast Alaska ports as Ketchikan, Skagway,
Sitka and Juneau. The ships turn around in Glacier Bay and
then return to their point of origin. Gulf of Alaska cruises
(sometimes called Glacier Route cruises) usually run between
Vancouver and Seward, with connections through Anchorage so
you can add land excursions to the state's interior to your
trip.
The vessels range from big luxury ships carrying more than
2,000 passengers to smaller but well-equipped boats that
hold up to 100 people. The smaller boats are more expensive,
but they're capable of getting closer to the glaciers and to
the wildlife on shore. No matter which kind of vessel you
choose, make your reservations six months to a year in
advance—bookings for the spring and summer fill up quickly.
As you sail along the rugged coast, passing the magnificent
Alexander Archipelago, you'll see cloud-shrouded mountains,
glaciers, fjords, islands covered with coniferous rain
forest, Alaska Native villages, eagles, seals, orca and
humpback whales, bears, moose and other animals. If your
journey includes Tracy Arm, a narrow fjord surrounded by
granite cliffs and ending at South Sawyer glacier, you may
see harbor seals and their pups on the ice floes during the
summer (it's included on many cruises, or you can visit as a
side trip from Juneau). Another highlight is Glacier Bay, in
Glacier Bay National Park.
At Skagway, the northern end of the Inside Passage, ferry or
cruise-ship passengers can book a train and motorcoach trip
to Whitehorse, Yukon, going over the historic White Pass and
Yukon Route. If you want to spend a day or two in the
wilderness, take a floatplane out to a U.S. Forest Service
cabin in the Tongass National Forest, which includes most of
Southeast Alaska. Some cruise ships continue on across the
Gulf of Alaska to Hubbard Glacier, Malaspina Glacier, Prince
William Sound and Columbia Glacier. They end at Seward (this
route is the northern part of the Gulf of Alaska cruises).
Kenai Peninsula, Alaska
Overview
Introduction
A few hours' drive south of Anchorage, the beautiful Kenai
Peninsula area offers excellent king salmon fishing and
other outdoor activities. Driving southeast from Anchorage
on the Seward Highway, stop first at Portage Glacier, where
the Begich-Boggs Visitors Center has exhibits and a short
film on the geological dynamics of glaciers and how they
have shaped Alaska. Boat trips by Gray Line Tours offer a
close-up view of Portage Glacier.
Farther on, the highway splits: The Seward Highway heads
south to Seward and Kenai Fjords National Park, and the
other fork, Sterling Highway, goes west. If you remain on
Sterling Highway, you'll pass through a portion of Kenai
National Wildlife Refuge and drive along the banks of the
Kenai and Russian rivers, sure to be crowded in peak fishing
season with anglers casting for king, silver or sockeye
salmon.
A little farther on, stop in the town of Kenai, at the mouth
of the Kenai River. The town has a Russian Orthodox church,
a few interesting stores and a surprising amount of
industrial development, including an oil refinery. After
Kenai, the highway turns south and eventually ends in Homer.
North of Kenai is Captain Cook State Recreation Area, an
excellent stop for families with children. It's a great
place for picnicking, beachcombing, hiking, boating and
fishing. Campgrounds are available.
Note: Spruce bark beetles have attacked south-central Alaska
in recent years, and their destruction is most apparent on
the Kenai Peninsula, where vast stretches of forest are now
dead. Recovery will take decades.
Misty Fiords National Monument, Alaska
Overview
Introduction
Misty Fiords National Monument, 675 mi/1,087 km southeast of
Anchorage, encompasses more than 2 million acres/810,000
hectares of old-growth forest, granite mountains,
waterfalls, islands, lakes, rivers and coastal habitat.
Boats and cruise ships thread their way through extremely
narrow channels to provide access to these remote areas,
which begin about 20 mi/32 km southeast of Ketchikan.
The fjords provide habitats for a wide variety of plants and
animals. The cliffs are home to mountain goats, and the
forests protect Sitka blacktail deer and bears. The channels
are full of salmon and shellfish that nourish orcas, seals
and sea otters. Salmon and steelhead trout migrate along
mountain streams flowing into the sea.
The fjords also contain impressive granite formations.
Minerals present in the rock include gold, silver, copper,
zinc and one of the largest deposits of molybdenum (a
metallic element used to strengthen steel) in the world. In
Behm Canal, New Eddystone Rock, a remnant of an ancient
volcanic plug, rises from the depths.
As you sail through this rich and productive habitat, be
sure to scan the waters for whales and seals, and watch for
the telltale white heads of bald eagles perched in treetops
along the shore.
Prudhoe Bay, Alaska
Overview
Introduction
On the Arctic Ocean at the northeastern edge of the state,
700 mi/1,127 km north of Anchorage, Prudhoe Bay is a good
place to see tundra, wildflowers, permafrost, caribou, bears
and thousands of ducks, geese and other birds. The area also
has enormously rich oil reserves that supply the
Trans-Alaska Pipeline—and fill the state's coffers with
oil-tax income.
Prudhoe Bay is usually reached by air or bus tour from
Fairbanks. The Dalton Highway, the service road to Prudhoe
Bay, is now open to public traffic but is not advised for
RVs. If you drive it on your own, take extra gas, tires and
tools. One day in the area is usually enough, and places to
stay are sparse, at best.
Alaska At Sea, Alaska
Overview
Introduction
What sets Alaska cruises apart from other cruises is what
you can see from the ship's rail: the state's geological
wonders. They're just as much a part of the Alaska cruise
experience as stops in port.
Some of the sights you may see as you sail past include
Columbia Gorge (most ships pass it); College Fjord, with its
quintessential examples of tidewater and hanging glaciers;
and the vast Glacier Bay National Park, with 50 named
glaciers and seven active tidewater glaciers.
Hubbard Glacier, Misty Fjords National Monument and Tracy
Arm Fjord are other dramatic sights that offer visitors the
chance to see nature in action.
See & Do
Sightseeing
Nature
College Fjord
Cutting straight as a board northeast into the mountainous
terrain surrounding Columbia Glacier, College Fjord offers a
textbook array of tidewater and hanging glaciers. This area,
about halfway between Valdez and Whittier, was explored and
mapped by the Harriman Expedition in 1899, which included
E.H. Harriman, his son W. Averell Harriman, naturalists John
Muir and C. Hart Merriam, and ornithology artist Louis
Agassiz Fuertes.
The Harriman Expedition named the glaciers of College Fjord
after East Coast institutions of higher learning (the Ivy
League and the Seven Sisters), symbolizing the class of
those who could afford the time and expense to travel so
far. Like the colleges and universities they honor, the
glaciers have changed over time. Harvard Glacier—at the head
of the fjord—has advanced about a mile/kilometer in the past
100 years, and Yale glacier has receded nearly 3.7 mi/6 km
and has thinned more than 820 ft/250 m.
It's hard to predict what these two and their counterparts
will look like in another century. Meanwhile, the ice masses
creak, pop and groan with transformation as they crawl
inexorably through the valleys they've carved for
themselves.
In 2001, more than two dozen scientists, writers and artists
retraced the Harriman Expedition, recording the changes to
Alaska's coastline in a PBS documentary film and several
publications. http://www.pbs.org/harriman.
College Fjord and Columbia Glacier are two of the 20
sea-level formations created by ice in Prince William Sound,
a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Seventy mi/113 km wide, the bay
is three times the size of San Francisco Bay and home to the
largest concentration of tidewater glaciers in the world.
Columbia Glacier
Most cruise ships that follow the Glacier Route into Prince
William Sound near Valdez pass the thick, 3-mi-/5-km-wide
edge of Columbia Glacier, an ice sheet that flows out of the
Chugach Mountains. (You can also take a sightseeing boat to
the glacier or fly over it in a plane.) The Columbia Glacier
is about the size of Los Angeles and is Prince William
Sound's largest tidewater glacier.
At its longest, the octopus-shaped glacier measures 33.6
mi/54 km—the great expanse is partly hidden by the
surrounding mountains (picture ice between the high peaks
instead of land and you'll get an idea of its size). Most
ships and boats idle for several hours at the mouth of the
glacier to give passengers a chance to see it calve:
Icebergs the size of office buildings can topple into the
sea with an enormous roar, and the resulting ocean swell
shifts everyone's weight a little. The turbulence lifts fish
to the surface—you may witness seabirds, seals and sea
otters taking advantage of this, filling the air with the
spray of their dives. Some marine animals use the smaller
bergs as platforms.
Columbia Glacier is receding at what's considered to be a
fast rate: Since it started its retreat in 1980, it has
backed up about 9 mi/14 km, and it's expected to eventually
expose a fjord 25 mi/40 km long. The terminus, or face, of
the glacier has shrunk from 5 mi/8 km to 2 mi/3.2 km wide in
the last 20 years.
Because receding glaciers calve at a greater rate than
advancing ones, iceberg production in Prince William Sound
has increased dramatically, so most ships stay about 7 mi/11
km from the face of the glacier. There's some concern about
possible hazards to navigation, especially for supertankers
that stop at nearby Valdez, the terminus for the
Trans-Alaska Pipeline.
http://ak.water.usgs.gov/glaciology/columbia/index.htm.
Hubbard Glacier
Its vastness may be hard to perceive from the deck of a
ship, but trust us: Hubbard Glacier west of Skagway is a
whopping 76 mi/122 km long, with a cliff face 6 mi/10 km
wide and about 40 stories high. It's the longest tidewater
glacier in North America.
It's also one of the fastest. Although most glaciers are
very slow-moving (a rate of 3 ft/1 m per day is considered
normal cruising speed), some, like Hubbard, possess
qualities that propel them in occasional bursts, traveling
at up to 200 ft/60 m per day. What causes some glaciers to
engage in this uncharacteristic behavior is a combination of
glacial plumbing and other environmental factors not
completely understood.
In 1986 and 2002, Hubbard—nicknamed the galloping
glacier—surged forward and blocked off Russell Fjord,
creating the world's largest glacier-formed lake at 83 ft/25
m above sea level. As water flowing from the mountains
backed up behind this icy dam, there was concern about where
the water would go when it eventually broke free. The nearby
Situk River could have been completely scoured by the flood,
destroying this very productive salmon and steelhead
spawning stream wiping out the town of Yakutat. But instead
of flooding the Situk, the mountain of water—3.5 million cu
ft/99,109 cu m of it—poured into Disenchantment Bay (at the
head of Yakutat Bay near Yakutat, 212 mi/340 km northwest of
Juneau).
http://www.fs.fed.us/r10/tongass/forest_facts/photogallery/hubbard_photos.html.
Misty Fjords National Monument
Misty Fjords National Monument encompasses more than 2
million acres/810,000 hectares of old-growth forest, granite
mountains, waterfalls, islands, lakes, rivers and coastal
habitat. Boats and cruise ships thread their way through
extremely narrow channels to provide access to these remote
areas, which begin about 20 mi/32 km southeast of Ketchikan.
The fjords provide habitat for a wide variety of plants and
animals. The cliffs are home to mountain goats, and the
forests protect bears and Sitka black-tailed deer. The
channels are full of salmon and shellfish that nourish
orcas, seals and sea otters. Salmon and steelhead trout
migrate along mountain streams flowing into the sea.
The fjords also contain impressive granite formations.
Minerals present in the rock include gold, silver, copper,
zinc and one of the largest deposits of molybdenum (a
metallic element used to strengthen steel) in the world. In
Behm Canal, New Eddystone Rock, a remnant of an ancient
volcanic plug, rises from the depths.
As you sail through this rich and productive habitat, be
sure to scan the waters for whales and seals, and watch for
the telltale white heads of bald eagles perched in treetops
along the shore.
http://www.fs.fed.us/r10/ro/ak_overview/tongass_highlights/tongass_pearls.shtml#MFNM.
Tracy Arm Fjord
This dramatic fjord off Stephens Passage, about 45 mi/72 km
south of Juneau, is a popular cruising area for big and
small ships. It's less than a mile/kilometer wide and 25
mi/40 km long, and the granite walls climb 2,000 ft/620 m.
Several spectacular waterfalls drop from the cliffs.
The stark beauty of the fjord is accentuated by the North
Sawyer and South Sawyer glaciers, which frequently send
bus-sized icebergs crashing into the blue-green water.
Listen to the ice grind and snap as you watch harbor seals
haul out of the frigid waters onto the icebergs.
In 1879, naturalist John Muir described the area as "shut in
by sublime Yosemite cliffs, nobly sculpted, and adorned with
waterfalls and fringes of trees, bushes and patches of
flowers." The place hasn't changed much since then.
Tracy Arm Fjord is part of the 650,000 acres/263,045
hectares Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness region, the
third-largest designated wilderness area in the Tongass
National Forest.
http://www.fs.fed.us/r10/ro/ak_overview/tongass_highlights/tongass_pearls.shtml#Tracy
Arm.
En route to Tracy Arm from Juneau, ships pass Admiralty
Island National Monument-Kootznoowoo Wilderness area, almost
1 million acres/404,686 hectares, home to the largest
concentration of brown bears in the world and approximately
5,000 eagles. The Tlingit people called the island
Kootzoowoo fortress of the bear. It's a UNESCO Biosphere
Reserve.
http://www.fs.fed.us/r10/tongass/districts/admiralty.
Parks & Gardens
Glacier Bay National Park
When Capt. George Vancouver sailed into ice-choked Icy
Strait more than two centuries ago, Glacier Bay was little
more than a dent in a mountain of ice 4,000 ft/1,219 m thick
and 20 mi/32 km wide. By the time John Muir visited the area
in 1879, the ice had retreated more than 30 mi/48 km,
creating a beautiful bay. Today, the waterway stretches for
65 mi/105 km and contains 50 named glaciers and seven active
tidewater glaciers—more than any other place in the world.
Ships that cruise Glacier Bay usually idle in Icy Strait
long enough to pick up two park service naturalists from the
Glacier Bay National Park ranger station near Gustavus, 60
mi/96 km west of Juneau. Then they sail up the western arm
of the bay. (Smaller ships usually sail in the narrower
eastern arm.) The weather is often foggy and drizzly, but if
the clouds lift, the views of the glaciers flowing down the
steep mountains are spectacular. (Interestingly, the
glaciers appear a richer blue on cloudy days.)
Most ships pause in front of several glaciers to give
passengers a chance to see calving. It's breathtaking.
Humpback whales feed in the bay's nutrient-rich waters,
harbor seals float on icebergs, and comical puffins—pelagic
seabirds—dive in the cold waters. The naturalists, who
usually spend the day onboard, give talks, show slides and
sell books about the 3.2-million-acre/1.3-million-hectare
park, which is approximately the size of Connecticut.
Glacier Bay National Park, along with Kluane National Park
and Reserve and the Tatshenshini-Alsek Provincial Park, both
in Canada, make up a 24.3-million-acre/9.8-million-hectare
UNESCO World Heritage Site. This unique wilderness area has
more than 2,000 glaciers and the world's largest nonpolar
ice field. http://www.nps.gov/glba/index.htm and
http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/72.
Whittier, Alaska
Overview
Introduction
Whittier is a small seaport located south of Anchorage and
nestled in the Chugach Mountains. It is Anchorage's closest
deep-water seaport and the gateway to exploring the many
wonders and sights of eastern Prince William Sound.
Visitors' first stop should be the Begich-Boggs Visitor
Center, which takes in the flora, fauna and ice of the
nearby Portage Glacier area. Stop at one of the viewing
platforms overlooking the area creeks and rivers and watch
salmon spawning. Day hikes to nearby alpine glaciers offer
plenty of opportunities for those who like rugged
back-country hiking.
The 2.5-mi-/4-km-long Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel is the
longest vehicle tunnel in North America. This vintage and
renovated World War II train tunnel and bunker is the
fastest and most economical way to reach Whittier.
Visitors to Whittier will find plenty to keep them active,
including kayaking, sightseeing, touring, hiking and
fishing.
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