Sitka Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Itinerary

Sitka is not just another Alaskan town; it is a place where the mist clings to the mountains and the ocean teems with life in a way that feels ancient and untouched. Located on the outer coast of Baranof Island, facing the vast Pacific Ocean, it is the only community in Southeast Alaska that fronts the open sea. Here, bald eagles are as common as pigeons in a city park, and the silence of the Tongass National Forest is broken only by the blow of a humpback whale or the call of a raven.

This island community offers a distinct cultural tapestry that sets it apart from the rest of the state. As the former capital of Russian America, the town’s skyline is punctuated by the onion domes of St. Michael’s Cathedral, while the forest floor is guarded by the silent, towering totem poles of the Tlingit people. It is a place of deep history and wild, rugged beauty that invites you to slow down and breathe the crisp, cedar-scented air.

Where Russia Meets the Rainforest

What makes Sitka truly special is its visible layers of history. Known as “Sheet’ká” to the Tlingit people who have lived here for thousands of years, it was later colonized by Russia and served as the capital of Russian America until 1867. You can literally walk through this timeline. A stroll down Lincoln Street takes you past Russian blockhouses, colonial administrative buildings, and modern shops, all shadowed by the majestic peaks of the Sisters Mountains.

Unlike the frantic pace of cruise-heavy ports like Juneau or Ketchikan, Sitka retains a small-town, authentic grit. It is accessible only by air or sea, keeping the crowds manageable and the vibe local. The community is deeply connected to the ocean; fishing isn’t just a hobby here, it’s a livelihood and a way of life. Visitors are welcomed not just as tourists, but as guests in a community that prides itself on resilience and hospitality.

The Icons You’ll Want to See

Sitka National Historical Park (Totem Park) - A free National Park site located 1 mile from downtown. It features a scenic coastal trail lined with Tlingit and Haida totem poles and a visitor center with native artists demonstrating their craft.

Fortress of the Bear - Located 5 miles from town ($15 admission), this rescue center allows you to safely view orphaned brown and black bears from raised platforms. It provides a rare photography opportunity.

Alaska Raptor Center - An essential stop 1.5 miles from downtown ($15 admission), this rehabilitation facility treats injured birds of prey. The flight training center allows you to see eagles fly directly in front of you.

St. Michael’s Cathedral - Standing in the center of downtown traffic, this active Russian Orthodox church ($5 donation) houses priceless religious icons and artifacts dating back to the colonial period.

Planning Your Visit

Sitka is on an island, so you cannot drive here from the mainland. Most travelers arrive via Alaska Airlines (daily flights from Seattle or Anchorage) or the Alaska Marine Highway ferry system. Because it is somewhat isolated, prices for goods can be higher than on the mainland. While the downtown area is very walkable, getting to wildlife sites like the Fortress of the Bear requires a taxi, a rental car, or a tour shuttle.

Pack for dynamic weather. The locals say, “There is no bad weather, only bad gear.” Even in summer, temperatures hover in the 60s, and rain is frequent. Dress in synthetic layers, avoid cotton, and bring a high-quality waterproof rain jacket and sturdy walking shoes. If you visit in summer, bring an eye mask for sleeping, as the sun barely sets!

Whether you come for the summer salmon runs, the spring whale migration, or the quiet beauty of a rainy autumn day, Sitka leaves a mark on your soul. It is a destination that demands you look outward at the mountains and the sea, and inward at the history that shaped this unique corner of the world.