ketchikan city tour

• Wildlife, City & Saxman Native Village

Welcome to Ketchikan, Alaska!

The gateway to america's 49th state & "the last frontier".

Sourdough Tours is waiting to show you the rugged beauty, historic charm, and frontier spirit that makes Alaska your destination of choice.

Let Sourdough Tours give you an unforgettable view of Ketchikan.

Whether you're making plans to visit Ketchikan by cruise ship, Alaska ferry, or airplane, we offer fully narrated guided tours of Ketchikan's historic sites and Native cultures.

Alaska Sourdough Tours has several tours available. Our most popular, the Wildlife, City & Saxman Native Village Tour. This tour combines wildlife, totem poles, and a city tour, all in one. This tour also includes 10 miles of breathtaking waterfront and seasonal Alaskan wildlife.

Arrange a flightseeing tour.

After you've seen it by land, you'll want to see it from the air on a flightseeing tour. Alaska's premiere floatplane airline can show you the beauty and grandeur that is truly the last frontier.

Book your flightseeing tour now and see the majestic Misty Fjords from an eagle's eye view.

Sourdough Tours can also make arrangements for other Flightseeing Tours and Fishing Charters. Custom and private tours are available.

Make your reservation.

Located just inside the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau at booth No. 14 you will find our friendly staff ready to book your tour. Or avoid the lines and make your reservation online now.

All tours depart from the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau and you can also pick up a Free Walking Tour Map there!

Contact us for commission information if you are a Travel Agent or group leader. Discounts are available for AAA travel agents and AARP members age sixty and over (ID required).

Tours Sightseeing

Things to do, what's your type.

Are you a nature lover? Besides just opening your eyes and taking a look around, there are many ways to experience the beauty that surrounds you in Ketchikan. We are located within the Tongass National Forest, a 17M-acre rainforest that features some of the most mystical natural tableau on the planet. And the Misty Fjords National Monument, a nature preserve where glacier-sculpted granite fjords rise up to 3,000 feet above sea level, is just a short 30-minute flight away from our waterfront.

Are you a thrill-seeker? Have you always wanted to go off-roading in Alaska? Or maybe just zip down a line between two enormous cedar trees high above a verdant rainforest?

Are you a history buff? For unknown years Alaska’s first people harvested salmon from Ketchikan Creek in their summer fish camps. Later, the city of Ketchikan was founded in 1900 and attracted a motley crew of miscreants, miners and fishermen, pillars of society and working gals. Decades ago, we were deemed “the worst pest-hole in America,” a bit harsh, but still we challenge you to find a town with a more colorful past. We’re happy to report that we've risen high above that distinction. Very high above.

Are you a Native arts aficionado? Did you know that Ketchikan boasts the largest number of totem poles in Alaska? We have a very active Native arts community of carvers, dancers, weavers, painters, and engravers and their work is everywhere … even on one of our city buses!

At the risk of sounding trite, there's something for everyone in Ketchikan and a wide variety of ways to explore our beautiful backyard, the Tongass National Forest. From Hummers to Hydra-Terras.… motor coaches to catamaran cruisers … bush planes to helicopters … buses to bicycles … trolleys to ziplines. We offer almost as many tour types and modes of transportation as exist on the planet, so choose your own adventure. And enjoy!

Ketchikan Videos

Ketchikan Story The Bush Pilots

Sport Fishing in Ketchikan

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Saxman Native Village and Ketchikan City Tour from Ward Cove

• Experience the awe-inspiring Saxman Native Village, home to the world's largest standing totem pole collection
• Explore Ketchikan's city sights aboard a deluxe motor coach or private van
• Enjoy an exclusive stop at Eagle Point, a private salmon cannery with common sightings of eagles and harbor seals
• Get a taste of local culture with an exterior visit to the Clan House and the opportunity to purchase authentic arts and crafts
• Wrap up your tour at Historic Creek Street, once a bustling red-light district and now home to the famous Dolly's House Museum

See Historical Saxman Native Village, City and Wildlife

This Ketchikan guided tour includes sights in the Ketchikan area, an exclusive stop at Eagle Point, and time at Saxman Native Village.

Enjoy the city tour of Ketchikan aboard a deluxe motor coach or private 15 passenger van. The views are outstanding as you travel past the rustic waterfront, boat harbors, and the picturesque city park. You will stop near one of Ketchikan's private salmon canneries at Eagle Point. This is an exclusive stop where eagles and harbor seals are almost always in attendance. See a salmon ladder and watch salmon spring from the rushing water en route to the spawning grounds (late July through September). A stop will also be made for a brief introduction to a rainforest.

At Saxman Native Village, you'll gaze and be amazed at the world's largest standing collection of totem poles. On this Ketchikan tour you will hear the legends and stories of these ancient and majestic totem poles, and learn how and why they were made. You will also make an exterior-only visit to the Clan House, where your guide will explain some of the many carved figures. You will then have a short amount of free time to visit the Village Store and Artists Co-op, where authentic arts and crafts are made by Saxman Natives. This Ketchikan tour does not include carving or native performances.

Once back in town, a stop will be made at Historic Creek Street. This was Ketchikan's former busy red-light district and is now home to the world-famous Dolly's House Museum. Guests can choose to either end the tour at Historic Creek Street (approximately 10-minute walk to the shuttle pick up area), or be returned to the shuttle pick up area for the return trip to Ward Cove.

Private Ketchikan City Totems & Wildlife Van Tour

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• pick up and drop off per your request.
• Entry/Admission - Totem Bight State Historical Park
• Entry/Admission - Saxman Native Village
• Ketchikan Visitors Bureau 201 Dock St. we have a Red Dodge Caravan and will be waiting at your designated pick up location with a sign with your party's name
• Ketchikan Intl Airport, 1000 Airport Terminal Way, Ketchikan, AK 99901
• Ketchikan Cruise Ship Docks, Ketchikan, AK 99901, USA
• Ward Cove Cruise Ship Pier, 7691 N Tongass Hwy, Ketchikan, AK 99901, USA
• Berth 3, 509 Water St, Ketchikan, AK 99901, USA
• Ketchikan Visitors Bureau, 131 Front St, Ketchikan, AK 99901, USA
• Berth 2, 201 Dock St, Ketchikan, AK 99901, USA
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Infant seats available
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travelers can participate
• we can accommodate a small collapsible wheelchair
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• Saxman Native Village
• Creek Street
• Totem Bight State Historical Park
• Herring Cove

Similar experiences

• You'll get picked up See departure details
• 1 Totem Bight State Historical Park Stop: 30 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• 2 Herring Cove Stop: 30 minutes See details
• 3 Ketchikan Rainbird Trail Stop: 30 minutes See details
• 4 Creek Street Stop: 30 minutes See details
• 5 Ketchikan Stop: 30 minutes See details
• 6 Saxman Native Village Stop: 30 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• You'll return to the starting point

• Tracyumm 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Ketchikan your made easy! Awesome, knowledgeable, affordable!l. Good way to see Ketchikan. And in the comfort of a comfortable vehicle. Went to all of the spots as the bigger cans but had easier accessibility! So worth it. Read more Written September 26, 2023
• 170randym 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Rainy Day Tours Great tour. If you looking for a tour for up to six people, Rainy Day Tours is your answer. Art doesn’t charge per person and is extremely reasonable. Highly Recommend. Read more Written May 5, 2023

More to explore in Ketchikan

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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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Private Ketchikan City Totems & Wildlife Van Tour provided by Rainy Day Tours

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Ketchikan Highlights & Saxman Native Village Tour

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• Things to know
• Reviews (1)

Excursion Overview

Learn firsthand about alaska native culture, customs, and modern lifestyles.

Enjoy a uniquely Alaskan experience with this tour of Saxman Native Village, one of Ketchikan's most popular attractions. We'll start with a scenic drive through town and along Ketchikan's coastline. Saxman is a small town near Ketchikan with a population of about 400 people, most of whom are Alaska Natives. At the village, you will have the privilege of learning about Alaska Native culture, customs, and modern lifestyles. You'll be welcomed in the Tlingit language and invited to the Beaver Clan House, a wooden structure painted with a beautiful representation of a beaver. It's time for the highlight of the tour, a private performance by the Cape Fox Dancers, dressed in elaborate regalia. Through traditional song, dance, and props, they will portray cultural stories and teach about Alaska Native history. You will then be guided through the Canoe Canopy, where you can learn about the history of these Native-style boats. Canoes are a true feat of innovation, and they were vital to the peoples of Southeast Alaska for thousands of years. You will also have a chance to check out the Carving Center, for an up-close look at the art of totem pole carving and paint making. You'll finally head to the famous Totem Park, which houses 25 authentically carved totems. Each pole holds cultural significance, and the symbols tell a unique story. You'll learn in-depth about the meanings and symbolism behind each pole. This tour is an excellent opportunity to learn firsthand from the people whose ancestors have stewarded this land for centuries. Saxman Native Village is accessible and fun for both kids and adults, making it a great choice for multi-generational families traveling together!

Things You Need to Know

Inclusions:.

• Roundtrip transportation
• Access to Saxman Native Village totem park, carving center, and canoe canopy
• Private performance by the Cape Fox Dancers
• Shopping Opportunity in the Gift Shop

Requirements:

• Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Duration: 2-2.5 hours (Roundtrip from cruise ship terminal. (Guests docking at Ward Cove will be picked up and dropped off at Ward Cove))

• 15-20 minutes - transportation to Saxman Native Village
• 1.5 - 1.75 hours - Saxman Native Village
• 15-20 minutes - return transportation to Ward Cove and Downtown Ketchikan

Meeting Instructions:

• Guest docking at WARD COVE will be picked up and dropped off here. All other cruise ship guests or those staying locally will meet at the Ketchikan Visitor Center. Fully detailed instructions are included on your finalized ticket vouchers.

ADA Accessibility of Tour:

• This tour is fully accessible for guests with wheelchairs, scooters, and walkers. Most vehicles used have the space to accommodate collapsible equipment. There is a chairlift available upon request in advance. Please let us know at checkout if you will be bringing any medical equipment or will require the use of the lift.

Refund Policy:

• You may cancel for any reason up to seven (7) days prior to the date of the tour for a full refund.
• Please see our Refund Policy Page for complete details.

Tours can be canceled for any reason up until seven (7) days prior to the date of the tour for a full refund unless otherwise noted on the individual tour product page in the Things to Know section. To cancel a tour, please use the cancelation request link within your e-ticket that was emailed to you OR send an email to  [email protected] with the following information:

- Order number

- Tour you are canceling

- Number of passengers you wish to cancel

Within 0-7 days before the tour date, cancelations are eligible for a full refund only in the following scenarios:

- The tour is canceled by the tour operator for any reason (for example: bad weather or mechanical issue)

- You experience a medical emergency during this window and can provide documentation (documentation must be submitted within 30 days to receive a refund)

- Your ship changes port itineraries causing you to miss an excursion

All refunds are processed through Alaska Shore Excursions, and will not be processed through any cruise line or local tour provider. Refunds will appear under Alaska Shore Excursions on your bank/credit card statement. Credit card refunds are processed within 10 business days of the request. Exceptions to the refund policy include multi-day packages and some day tours. Please refer to the specific refund policy listed on the individual tour product page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Dress warmly in layered clothing appropriate for the weather. Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended.

We offer the local wholesale rates for all of our tours because we feel that everyone should get the same lowest price possible regardless of how many excursions you book. No tricks, no gimmicks, no hidden fees.

Definitely, arrangements of tours for groups or large families are possible. Please contact us at [email protected] with your group requests.

Yes! Multiple families may join the same tour as long as adequate space is available and the maximum is not exceeded.

Check out other frequently asked questions  here !

Guest Reviews

On aug 2023.

I appreciate the authenticity and the family connections

• Reviews Showing: 1

Best Price Guarantee!

Duration: 2-2.5 hours

Date Required

Time Required

# of Passengers Required

Adult: $ 69.00

Child: $ 59.00

Ages 2 and Under

Infant: $ 0.00

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Ketchikan Duck Tour

Amphibious tours in ketchikan, ak.

Ride the Duck

Come aboard a fun-filled adventure that’s guaranteed to quack you up!

Learn and laugh as we travel by the salmon ladder on Ketchikan Creek viewing the spawning grounds and live salmon in season, City Park’s fascinating fish hatchery and eagle center, picturesque Whale Park with its beautiful flowers, and infamous Creek Street marking Ketchikan’s colorful past and salty beginnings.

Then pick your feet up and put your hands in the air as the Ketchikan Duck Tour splashes into the scenic harbor on the Tongass Narrows! Feel the energy of the “Salmon Capital of the World” as you pass our diverse local fishing fleet. Motor down the channel for up close views of local fishing canneries, seaplane docks, seasonal wildlife, and Ketchikan’s waterfront community.

Your Ketchikan Duck Tour guide is sure to captivate and entertain you on your journey together aboard this Coast Guard certified and inspected amphibian that doubles as a boat and a bus. Book your Ketchikan duck tour today!

Only fun people are allowed on this 90-minute tour that takes you through the rustic streets of Ketchikan, then splashes into the harbor for spectacular views of Alaska’s First City. Be prepared for entertainment, trivia, and live narration that’s guaranteed to quack you up.

• Users All ages
• Hour Glass 90 minutes

A Quacktacular Time in Ketchikan

"This is a great way to see the highlights of the city as well as getting to know a little history of Ketchikan. The driver and guide were entertaining and friendly. Given the fact that our boat/car was one of the newer ones in the fleet made us very relaxed and assured. Definitely worthwhile."

"My family thoroughly enjoyed our tour today! We hopped on a few minutes after we got off our ship and took the tour before we did anything else. Glad we did it this way as it takes you on a great little tour around Ketchikan and made it easy to know where you may want to walk back to afterwards. Our Captain Peggy and Narrator Rudy were both excellent and kept the information and jokes coming for the duration of the tour! An entertaining way to spend your time in Ketchikan."

"Our duck tour was fabulous! Capt. Andrea and Jacob were like Abbott & Costello.. I never saw my Mom laugh so much and it was exactly what she needed after some difficult times.. It was scenic, relaxing, informative and our Capt. and guide were amazing! I will be sure to send anyone and everyone I know on this particular tour! Hopefully they will get Jacob and Capt. Andrea as well.. Thank you so very much! Kurt Gaydos, Long Island, NY"

"This tour is so much fun and full of information. Our Captain Peggy and guide Nick make an incredible working pair. They keep it full of fun facts and stories. The tour lasts 1.5 hours showing you the town of Ketchikan and then shifting to the water. I would do this tour again, given the chance."