Live Your Best Lives
  1. Travel FAQs
  2. United States
  3. Alaska (AK)

Best excursions for Ketchikan, Juneau, and vSkagway

Hi everybody,

Going on a HA cruise in August with stops in Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway.

Looking for advice on the best excursions to book for each town and which company to book with?

In Skagway, we want to learn about the gold rush history and take a trip into the Yukon. In Juneau.. definitely whale watch and the glacier, not at all sure what to do in Ketchikan?

Appreciate your advice!

For your Alaska cruise stops in Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway, there are a variety of excursions that cater to different interests, from wildlife viewing to cultural experiences and adventure. Booking ahead is recommended as popular excursions can fill up quickly in August.

Ketchikan: Known as the “Salmon Capital of the World” and famous for its Native culture, Ketchikan has many options ranging from scenic flights to cultural tours and wildlife excursions. Popular choices include:

  • Totem Bight State Historical Park & Saxman Village: Learn about Tlingit culture, see impressive totem poles, and enjoy a cultural demonstration.
  • Salmon fishing or wildlife tours: Half-day boat trips for wildlife viewing often include eagles, seals, and sometimes whales, plus scenic views of the Tongass Narrows.
  • Creek Street walking tour: A short, guided tour exploring Ketchikan’s historic red-light district with colorful history and local shops.
  • Zipline adventures: For active travelers, there are canopy tours offering views of the rainforest and rivers.

Juneau: Since you are interested in whales and glaciers, combining both in one day is ideal. Recommended excursions include:

  • Whale watching tour: Morning tours maximize sightings, often including humpback whales and orcas. Local companies include Harv & Marv’s, Juneau Whale Watch, or Gastineau Guiding Company.
  • Mendenhall Glacier visit: Easily combined with a whale-watching tour. Options include short hikes to the glacier viewpoints or guided glacier walks if you want more adventure.
  • Optional kayaking: If you have time, consider a guided sea kayaking tour around Auke Bay for wildlife and scenic views.

Skagway: Focus on gold rush history and the Yukon adventure. Options to consider:

  • White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad: A historic scenic train journey into the mountains with amazing views and historical narration about the gold rush.
  • Yukon excursion: Some tours combine train and bus into Canada’s Yukon Territory, often including historic towns like Fraser.
  • Walking tours of Skagway: Learn about the gold rush era, see preserved historic buildings, and hear local stories. Many small companies offer specialized guided walks.
  • Optional outdoor activities: Hiking or rafting trips in the surrounding wilderness if you want an adventure day.

Booking advice:

  • Book directly with reputable local operators for smaller, more personalized experiences, or through your cruise line if you prefer guaranteed timing with your ship.
  • Check reviews on cruise forums or TripAdvisor for recent feedback, especially for wildlife excursions where sightings are not guaranteed.
  • Plan your Juneau day carefully; whale sightings are best in the morning, while glacier hikes or sightseeing can be scheduled in the afternoon.

Overall, Ketchikan is best for cultural and light adventure experiences, Juneau for wildlife and glaciers, and Skagway for historic and scenic excursions. Planning a mix of guided tours and some self-exploration will give you the most complete experience at each port.

More Alaska (AK) Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Canada
Many
Tonga
Alaska
Street

Popular Destinations

Zhalong Wetland
Jidu Temple
Liu Sanjie Water Park
Shanghai Haichang Ocean Park

Popular Travel Questions