Discover Sitka
Sitka is Southeast Alaska's most distinctive port - the only stop on the Inside Passage where Russian colonial history, Tlingit culture, and dense coastal rainforest sit within a twenty-minute walk of each other. Once the capital of Russian America, it's one of the few places you can go from a Russian Orthodox cathedral to a totem-lined battlefield trail without needing a shuttle bus.
Things to See and Do
A single day in Sitka covers more historical and cultural ground than almost anywhere else on an Alaska itinerary.
Get in TouchSt. Michael's Cathedral
A Russian Orthodox cathedral rebuilt after a 1966 fire and now a National Historic Landmark, still standing in the middle of downtown Sitka - a living reminder that this was once the capital of Russian America.
Sitka National Historical Park
Alaska's oldest national park. A forest trail lined with genuine Tlingit and Haida totem poles leads to the site of the 1804 Battle of Sitka, where Russian forces fought the Tlingit for control of the region.
Alaska Raptor Center
Alaska's largest raptor rehabilitation center, caring for 100 to 200 eagles, falcons, and owls a year - within walking distance of the cruise dock.
Fortress of the Bear
A wildlife rescue site where black and brown bears unable to return to the wild roam a large open enclosure - one of the safest, closest looks at an Alaskan brown bear you'll get on a cruise.
Where to Eat
A few Sitka spots worth knowing about before you go.
Ludvig's Bistro
Rustic Mediterranean-leaning seafood from chef Colette Nelson - consistently rated Sitka's best table, and small enough that reservations matter.
Beak Restaurant
Formerly Larkspur Cafe, now helmed by chef Renee Trafton (a James Beard Award semifinalist) - creative small plates and a deck that fills up fast with locals.
Channel Club
A Sitka steakhouse institution on Halibut Point Road, a short drive from downtown.
Mean Queen
Thin-crust pizza and a full brunch menu overlooking the O'Connell Bridge and Sitka's waterways.