Discover Sitka, Alaska - Where Wilderness Meets History

Day 1: Russian & Tlingit Heritage Walk

• Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Arrive at Sitka Rocky Gutierrez Airport (SIT). Take a taxi or pre-booked shuttle to your accommodation in downtown Sitka (e.g., Sitka Hotel, Longliner Lodge, or a local B&B). Check-in and drop off luggage. Cost: Taxi/shuttle ~$15-20 per couple. Settle in, then head out for a light breakfast and coffee.
  • Activity: Enjoy breakfast at the Backdoor Cafe (behind Old Harbor Books, 201 Lincoln St), known for its pastries and coffee. Cost: ~$20-30 for two.
  • Distance: Most downtown hotels are within easy walking distance of the cafe and initial sites.
  • Practical Tip: Grab a Sitka visitor map from your hotel lobby or the Sitka Convention & Visitors Bureau (located at 104 Lake St) to orient yourselves.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Immerse yourselves in Sitka’s rich history, focusing on its Russian and Tlingit past.
  • Activity 1: Walk to Sitka National Historical Park (106 Metlakatla St, ~10-15 min walk from downtown). Explore the coastal trail adorned with stunning Tlingit totem poles, walk through the forest where the Battle of Sitka took place in 1804, and visit the cultural center. Cost: Free. Time needed: 2-3 hours.
  • Activity 2: Head back towards downtown to visit the Russian Bishop’s House (501 Lincoln St), a National Historic Landmark and one of the oldest surviving Russian-built log structures in North America. Take a guided tour to learn about the Russian Orthodox mission. Cost: ~$10-12 per person ($20-24 total). Time needed: 1-1.5 hours.
  • Distance: Sitka National Historical Park to Russian Bishop’s House is about a 10-15 minute walk.
• Evening (6:30 PM onwards) Enjoy a well-deserved dinner after a day of historical exploration.
  • Dining Recommendation: Ludvig’s Bistro (256 Katlian St) for a more upscale, intimate experience with fresh, locally sourced seafood and Mediterranean influences. Reservations highly recommended. Cost: ~$100-150 for two, including drinks.
  • After Dinner: Take a leisurely stroll along Lincoln Street, browse some of the local art galleries and gift shops if they are still open, and enjoy the evening ambiance of Sitka.

Day 2: Coastal Wildlife & Bear Encounters

• Morning (8:30 AM - 12:30 PM) Embark on a thrilling wildlife viewing boat tour, the highlight of your Sitka wildlife experience.
  • Activity: Join a guided Wildlife & Wilderness Cruise (e.g., through Sitka Sound Tours, Sitka Wildlife Tours, or Allen Marine Tours). These tours typically depart from Crescent Harbor or ANB Harbor downtown. You’ll explore Sitka Sound, searching for sea otters, harbor seals, sea lions, puffins, and potentially humpback whales or orcas. Most tours provide binoculars and expert commentary. Cost: ~$150-200 per person ($300-400 total). Time needed: 3-4 hours.
  • Practical Tip: Dress in layers, including a waterproof outer shell, even on sunny days. Bring a camera with a good zoom lens!
• Afternoon (1:30 PM - 5:00 PM) Continue your wildlife encounters by visiting a unique bear sanctuary.
  • Activity 1: Have a casual lunch near the harbor after your boat tour. Sitka Sound Seafoods (101 Katlian St, located directly on the water) offers fresh seafood with a view, or grab a quick bite at a local deli. Cost: ~$40-60 for two.
  • Activity 2: Take a taxi or shuttle to Fortress of the Bear (4633 Sawmill Creek Rd, about 5 miles south of downtown). This non-profit sanctuary provides a natural habitat for rescued Alaskan brown bears. You can observe the bears from raised viewing platforms. Cost: Suggested donation of ~$15 per person ($30 total). Time needed: 1-1.5 hours.
  • Distance: Taxi ride from downtown to Fortress of the Bear is approximately 15-20 minutes. Cost: ~$20-25 each way ($40-50 round trip).
• Evening (6:30 PM onwards) Enjoy a relaxed dinner and reflect on the day’s wildlife adventures.
  • Dining Recommendation: The Pioneer Bar (214 Lincoln St) offers a more casual, local atmosphere with good pub fare (burgers, fish & chips) and a selection of local brews. It’s a classic Sitka establishment. Cost: ~$50-80 for two.
  • After Dinner: Consider a walk down to Crescent Harbor to watch the boats and enjoy the Alaskan sunset, especially beautiful on a clear evening.

Day 3: Raptors, Indigenous Art & Departure

• Morning (9:30 AM - 12:30 PM) Discover Alaska’s magnificent birds of prey and learn about indigenous art.
  • Activity 1: Take a taxi or shuttle to the Alaska Raptor Center (1000 Raptor Way, about 2 miles north of downtown). This renowned rehabilitation center rescues and cares for injured bald eagles and other birds of prey. You’ll see several raptors up close, learn about their conservation efforts, and witness daily flight demonstrations (seasonal). Cost: ~$15-20 per person ($30-40 total). Time needed: 1.5-2 hours.
  • Distance: Taxi ride from downtown to Alaska Raptor Center is approximately 5-10 minutes. Cost: ~$10-15 each way ($20-30 round trip).
• Afternoon (1:30 PM - 4:00 PM) Delve into the unique indigenous art and culture of Alaska.
  • Activity 1: Have a quick lunch downtown. Fisheye Coffee Shop (320 Seward St) offers light fare, sandwiches, and excellent coffee. Cost: ~$30-40 for two.
  • Activity 2: Visit the Sheldon Jackson Museum (104 College Dr, on the Sitka Fine Arts Campus). This museum houses an outstanding collection of Alaska Native ethnographic materials, including masks, tools, and traditional garments from all major Alaska Native groups. Cost: ~$9-10 per person ($18-20 total). Time needed: 1-1.5 hours.
  • Practical Tip: The museum is a short, pleasant walk from downtown, or a very short taxi ride if preferred.
• Evening (5:00 PM onwards) Enjoy a final Sitka dinner before heading to the airport for your departure.
  • Dining Recommendation: Westmark Sitka Hotel Restaurant (1312 Sitka St) for a reliable meal with views of the harbor, or return to a favorite spot from previous days. Cost: ~$60-100 for two.
  • Departure: Head to Sitka Rocky Gutierrez Airport (SIT) via taxi or shuttle for your flight. Allow ample time for check-in. Cost: Taxi/shuttle ~$15-20 per couple.

Day 1: Arrival & Sitka’s Russian-Tlingit Roots

• Morning (10:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Arrive at Sitka Rocky Gutierrez Airport (SIT), pick up your bags, and take a quick taxi ride (approx. $10-15) to your accommodation, such as the centrally located Westmark Sitka or a charming local B&B. Check in and drop off your luggage. Take a leisurely stroll around Crescent Harbor, admiring the fishing boats and scenic views. Grab a casual and delicious lunch at Fisheye Coffee (around $30-40 for two), known for its sandwiches and coffee, perfect for a quick bite after travel.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Immerse yourselves in history at the Sitka National Historical Park (also known as “Totem Park”). This beautiful park is a significant site where Tlingit warriors made their last stand against Russian invaders. Spend 2-3 hours walking the coastal trail (approx. 1 mile loop), admiring the impressive collection of Tlingit and Haida totem poles, exploring the Russian Memorial and the site of the Battle of Sitka. Entrance is free. Afterwards, walk a short distance (0.5 miles, 10 min walk) to the Russian Bishop’s House, one of the few remaining examples of Russian colonial architecture in North America. Take a guided tour (free, donations appreciated) to learn about its history and the Russian Orthodox legacy in Alaska. Allow 1-1.5 hours.
• Evening Enjoy a culinary treat at Ludvig’s Bistro, renowned for its fresh, creative seafood dishes and intimate atmosphere. Reservations are highly recommended. Expect to spend $120-$180 for two, including drinks. After dinner, take a relaxing evening walk along the waterfront, enjoying the tranquil Sitka evening.

Day 2: Majestic Raptors, Bears & Indigenous Art

• Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Start your day with a visit to the Alaska Raptor Center, a non-profit rehabilitation facility for injured wild birds. Take the local RIDE Sitka bus (Blue Route, $2/person, 15-20 min ride from downtown) or a taxi (approx. $15-20) to the center. Spend 2-3 hours exploring the flight training center, aviary, and educational exhibits. You’ll see bald eagles, owls, hawks, and other raptors up close. Admission is about $20 per person.
• Afternoon (12:00 PM - 5:00 PM) After the Raptor Center, take the RIDE Sitka bus or a taxi further down the road (5-7 min drive) to Fortress of the Bear. This unique sanctuary provides a natural habitat for orphaned brown bears. Spend 1-1.5 hours observing these magnificent creatures from safe viewing platforms and learning about their stories. Suggested donation is $15-20 per person. Return to downtown Sitka (bus or taxi). Grab a quick and casual lunch at Wildflour Cafe & Bakery ($30-45 for two) for delicious sandwiches, soups, and pastries. In the late afternoon, delve into indigenous culture at the Sheldon Jackson Museum (walkable from downtown, approx. 0.3 miles). This historic museum houses a remarkable collection of Native Alaskan artifacts. Allow 1-1.5 hours. Admission is about $9 per person.
• Evening For a more casual and lively dinner, head to Mean Queen. Enjoy their famous gourmet pizzas, burgers, and a selection of local craft beers. Expect to spend $60-$90 for two. Afterwards, if you’re feeling adventurous, catch some live music if available, or simply enjoy a quiet drink.

Day 3: Ultimate Ocean Wildlife Expedition

• Morning & Afternoon (8:30 AM - 3:00 PM) Embark on the highlight of your ocean adventure: a half-day (4-5 hour) whale and wildlife watching cruise. Several reputable operators like Sitka Wildlife Tours or North Star Sitka offer excellent excursions. Pre-booking is essential. You’ll explore Sitka Sound, searching for humpback whales, sea otters, sea lions, puffins, and various seabirds. The guides provide fascinating commentary on the local ecology and wildlife. This experience typically costs $150-$250 per person, depending on the operator and duration, making it $300-$500 for two. Most tours depart from the main harbor near downtown, a short walk from your hotel. Light snacks and beverages are often provided on board, but pack an extra snack if needed.
• Evening After a thrilling day on the water, unwind with dinner at the Pub at the Westmark. It offers a comfortable atmosphere with classic American fare and local seafood options. Expect to spend $70-$100 for two. Enjoy recounting the day’s wildlife sightings over a relaxed meal.

Day 4: Island Views & Coastal Exploration

• Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Lace up your hiking boots for a refreshing walk along the Indian River Trail. The trailhead is accessible from downtown (approx. 1 mile walk or short taxi ride). This easy to moderate trail follows the picturesque Indian River, leading through lush rainforest. You can do a shorter loop or hike further up (up to 4-5 miles round trip) to enjoy serene natural beauty. Allow 2-3 hours for a comfortable pace. This activity is free and offers excellent birdwatching opportunities. Pack some water and snacks.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Choose your afternoon adventure!
  • Option A (Ocean Focused): Experience Sitka Sound from a different perspective with a guided sea kayaking tour. Companies like Sitka Sound Ocean Adventures offer half-day tours (3-4 hours) exploring nearby islands, coves, and spotting marine wildlife from sea level. Costs typically range from $100-$150 per person, so $200-$300 for two.
  • Option B (Local Flavors & Art): If kayaking isn’t your preference, spend the afternoon exploring Sitka’s unique shops and art galleries downtown. Visit the Sitka Historical Society & Museum gift shop for local crafts. Afterwards, head to Baranof Island Brewing Company (approx. 0.5 miles from downtown) for a tasting of locally brewed craft beers ($30-50 for two).
• Evening For your penultimate evening, treat yourselves to a memorable dinner at Odessy Restaurant, known for its elegant ambiance and refined menu featuring local ingredients. This would be a perfect spot for a special occasion. Expect to spend $150-$200 for two. Alternatively, if seeking something different, explore other highly-rated local eateries.

Day 5: Iconic Sights & Departure

• Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Begin your day with a visit to the iconic St. Michael’s Cathedral, a beautiful Russian Orthodox church located prominently in the heart of downtown Sitka. Originally built in the 1840s and reconstructed after a fire, it houses significant religious icons. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated. Allow 30-45 minutes. Afterwards, spend an hour browsing the Sitka History Museum, located within Harrigan Centennial Hall, which offers deeper insights into Sitka’s diverse past beyond the Russian period. Admission is approximately $7 per person. Take some time for last-minute souvenir shopping at the local stores downtown, such as the New Archangel Gift Shop for Alaskan treasures.
• Afternoon (12:00 PM - 2:00 PM) Enjoy a final Alaskan lunch at Highliner Coffee Co., known for its delicious sandwiches, soups, and excellent coffee (around $30-40 for two), perfect for a casual farewell meal. Depending on your flight schedule, head back to your accommodation to collect luggage. Take a taxi back to Sitka Rocky Gutierrez Airport (SIT) for your departure. Allow at least 2 hours before your flight for check-in.