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As a result, Sitka became the first capital city of Alaska until 1906. The park borders the coast, and provides a ideal spot to beach comb at low tide. Alaska’s oldest National Park is tiny at 113 acres, but it’s packed with history. Sitka National Historical Park was created in 1910 to commemorate the Battle of 1804 between the Tlingits and Russians. Located in the largest temperate rain forest in southeast Alaska, Sitka is accessible by air and sea because it sits on Baranof Island. While Sitka is relatively compact, the selection of things to do in Sitka is vast.
Eight Things That Will Surprise First Time Cruisers
It’s common to see whales in the bay during those months, but most cruise lines visit Sitka during the summer months, so the chances of seeing whales are less. Another rescue center in Sitka is the Alaska Raptor Center, which is a refuge for sick or injured bald eagles, owls, falcons, hawks, and other birds of prey from across Alaska. The tour visits many of the historical spots and popular attractions in Sitka, such as the Alaska Raptor Center, St. Michael’s, and Sitka National Historic Park. Sitka Checkered Tours, run by Jeff Budd will meet you at the cruise port and take you on a private tour through Sitka. Set in Tongass National Forest, the Fortress of the Bear provides a home for orphaned bears who otherwise wouldn’t be able to survive on their own. Today, a wide pathway takes you to the top, or you can opt for the more challenging staircase.
You Can Walk the Main Area of Sitka in About 20-30 Minutes
Sitka National Historical Park walking trails, entrance on Lincoln St. just north of the SNHP Visitor Center. The Centennial Pole, erected to celebrate the park’s 100th anniversary, was dedicated in 2011. This totem features a raven and eagle along with the National Park Service bison. The pole also includes a Julian calendar used by Sitka’s Russian settlers. In 1906, the totems made the long journey back to Alaska by the U.S. Revenue Cutter Service, steamship, and rail, and were then installed in Sitka, at Alaska’s first National Park.
Things to do in Sitka Alaska Cruise Port
Sitka Distilling Company – Located close to the harbor, this distillery specializes in vodka, gin, and whiskey. The tasting room offers flights and cocktails made from their spirits. Highliner Coffee – For a casual stop, Highliner offers quality coffee and pastries, as well as free Wi-Fi.
The waters surrounding Sitka are known to be a habitat for both humpback whales and orcas, making it a prime location for encountering these majestic marine creatures. Situated on a beautiful forested campus, this center provides a sanctuary for injured bald and golden eagles, owls, hawks, and other raptors. So, join us as we dive into the wonders of Sitka, Alaska, and uncover its hidden treasures. Our Alaska cruise didn’t include the town of Sitka, but oh, how we wished we had! As travel bloggers with an itinerary change, we meticulously researched the top attractions and activities in Sitka and are excited to share our findings with you.
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Get Up Close to Native Alaskan Wildlife
Plus, I think that a really great way to get to know a destination is to taste their food; whatever might be the local specialty. There’s the Sitka bus service (ridesitka.com) and you can pick up a bus schedule at the Visitor’s Center in Centennial Hall or across the street at the Sitka Chamber. You can try to call a taxi to pick you up at the Old Sitka Dock but cell service out there is nearly non-existent. Among luxury cruise lines, Seabourn will usually drop anchor at Crescent Harbor while Silversea heads to Old Sitka Dock.
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From the lookout at the top, there’s a beautiful view of Sitka Sound, and it’s especially stunning at sunset. Baranof Castle State Historical Site, also known as Castle Hill, is one of Alaska’s most important historical sites and a must-see for visitors to Sitka. Choose from various Sitka Alaska excursions and tours, or just wander around the beautiful town on your own.
Best Sitka Shore Excursions (through your ship or 3rd party seller)
If that’s the case, you’ll get tendered into town on smaller water shuttles. It is one of the last remaining Russian colonial architecture sites in North America. The highlight of the park is the authentic totem poles that showcase the rich indigenous heritage of the Tlingit people. The totem polls, along with the animal encounters above, make up the top four Sitka attractions visited. I would use two words to describe the hike up to the picnic rock overlook at Mt Verstovia - steep and STUNNING.
Visit Sitka
Also check out their clearance shop next door to find some bargains. The Sitka Sound Science Center is an aquarium and salmon hatchery, located on Lincoln Street just a short walk from the downtown shopping district. There is an eclectic range of shops in downtown Sitka, and anyone looking to browse for souvenirs will not have a hard time finding them. Check out the Chocolate Moose — also a florist — for treats; the Alaska Pure Sea Salt Company for locally sourced salt; and Old Harbor Books for some reading material. All of these storefronts, and many more, are located along Lincoln Street.
St Michael’s Cathedral is a small yet stunning Russian Orthodox Cathedral right in the center of town. The original building burned in 1966, though many of the art and icons from inside were saved. The cathedral was rebuilt as a replica of the original 1848 building.
Watch for puffins and other birds as your captain masterfully guides you through secluded volcanic caves. Grab a paddle and set off in a kayak on the way to secluded coves, across sweeping seas, and along breathtaking mountainscapes in Sitka Sound and the Indian River. Or, canoe into Crescent Bay, just beyond the rows of boats bobbing in Crescent Harbor. Discover the history of the Battle of 1804 being the Tlingits and Russian forces, which inspired the park’s creation. Despite its small size, there are unique and exciting things to do in Sitka for all kinds of travelers.
The guide will point out and name each of the bears and their individual personalities. Before you leave, stop by the gift shop – proceeds go to the rescue center. Still within walking distance from downtown, at the end of Lincoln Street is Sitka National Historical Park, Alaska’s oldest national park. When visiting a cruise port, it can be a tough choice to decide what to do with limited time ashore. And while it isn’t the busiest cruise port, there are still plenty of things to do in Sitka.
On a clear day, you’ll also have sweeping views of conical Mt. Edgecumbe, as well as spectacular glaciers and sparkling blue mountain lakes. Russia once claimed Sitka as an outpost and constructed the town’s religious center, the first Russian Orthodox church in North America. On a journey through Sitka’s top attractions, St. Michael’s Cathedral ranks high on the list for its storied history and its significance to locals. Experience thousands of years of Southeast Alaskan culture and history at the Sitka National Historic Park. Take a hike on the mile-long Totem Trail to see nearly 20 totems dotting the way.
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