Our final stop on our Alaskan adventure was Ketchikan, where my friend, Krystal, was currently on assignment as a travel nurse. Ketchikan, Alaska, is a coastal town located in the southeastern part of the state. Known as the “Salmon Capital of the World,” and often referred to as the “First City,” Ketchikan offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures.
Part of the beauty of Ketchikan is its stunning waterfront setting. The town is situated along the Tongass Narrows, surrounded by lush rainforests and bordered by the Tongass National Forest, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers. The town itself is built on stilts, with a charming waterfront boardwalk that allows visitors to stroll along the harbor, enjoying the scenic views of the sea, marina, and colorful buildings.
One of Ketchikan’s most famous attractions is Creek Street, a historic boardwalk lined with quaint shops and boutiques. This charming street was once the heart of the town’s red-light district during the Gold Rush era and is now a popular destination for shopping, dining, and exploring local art galleries. Unfortunately, our timing in Ketchikan was not the best as it was towards the end of Covid restrictions, and many shops were still closed. Ketchikan’s economy relies heavily on tourism from cruise ships and fishing expeditions, and with these industries not yet resuming operations, there simply wasn’t enough business for many places to reopen at this time. We spent our time on Creek Street admiring the beauty of the area, from the colorful buildings to the actual creek, and reading about its fascinating history that was posted along the way.
Ketchikan is renowned for its thriving salmon fishing industry, and there are typically numerous opportunities for fishing 
excursions, both for seasoned anglers and beginners looking to try their luck. The town’s streams and rivers teem with salmon during the fishing season, drawing fisherman from all over the world.
Our nightlife on Ketchikan was spent at the Arctic Bar, the “home of the happy bears.” The Arctic Bar is conveniently situated in downtown Ketchikan and holds a special place in the town’s history and culture. This longstanding establishment has been a gathering spot for both locals and visitors alike for many years, providing a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere. Decorated with nautical and Alaskan-themed memorabilia, it pays tribute to Ketchikan’s maritime heritage. It is a great place to unwind, meet locals, and enjoy live music or entertainment, such as karaoke night, on certain evenings. We had the pleasure of drinking with Brenda while we were there, a well-known patron of the Arctic Bar who provided hours of laughs and entertainment.
For those seeking outdoor adventures, Ketchikan has plenty of hiking trails that wind through lush rainforests, providing opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy the natural beauty of the region. However, Ketchikan’s temperate rainforest climate means it receives a significant amount of rainfall throughout the year. It is one of the wettest places in the United States with an average rainfall of 153 inches per year. Compare that with, say, Columbus, Ohio, which sees roughly 38 inches of rain per year. We were lucky enough to see a little bit of sunshine in Ketchikan, but it was largely rainy and/or snowy with a temperature set at just the right point for borderline precipitation. We took advantage of the sun when we could to get out and see some of Ketchikan’s natural beauty, but it wasn’t quite enough to get in any hiking. Misty Fjords National Monument, just a short flight or boat ride away, is also a place I would love to visit if I ever make my way back to Ketchikan.
Ketchikan is a charming Alaskan town that beckons visitors with its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re interested in fishing, hiking, Native American culture, or simply taking in the stunning scenery, Ketchikan offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
