Cruise non-excursion ?

Question

Hi, my husband and I have a day in Sitka on our upcoming cruise. Rather than paid excursions, we prefer just to get off the boat and wander around for the day, exploring shops and local stores, etc. I know it's small, but does Sitka have such a "downtown" area walking distance from the ship dock? Museums or parks?

Answer

Sitka is a very walkable town, and if you prefer to skip organized excursions, you can definitely enjoy a full day exploring on your own. The cruise ship docks at the Sitka Cruise Ship Dock, which is very close to what locals consider the “downtown” area.

From the dock, most shops, galleries, and restaurants are within a short walking distance. You can easily wander the streets, browse local stores, and enjoy the waterfront.

Main Street / Lincoln Street Area: This is the core shopping area with gift shops, art galleries, and cafes. Perfect for casual strolling and picking up souvenirs.
Waterfront and Harbor: Walking along the waterfront offers scenic views of Sitka Sound and opportunities to see local fishing boats and wildlife.
Museums: The Sitka Historical Society and Sheldon Jackson Museum are within walking distance. The museum has Alaska Native art and artifacts.
Parks: Totem Park is nearby and displays historic totem poles. Sitka National Historical Park, a bit further but still walkable from downtown, offers trails, interpretive signs, and more totem poles.

You can comfortably spend a few hours exploring Sitka without needing transportation. There are some hills, so wear comfortable shoes, but the town is compact enough that you can cover a lot on foot. If needed, taxis or local shuttles are available for slightly longer distances.

Consider grabbing a coffee or lunch at a local cafe along Lincoln Street to soak in the small-town charm.
Plan for about 4–5 hours to leisurely explore the shops, park, and museum if you want a relaxed pace.
Keep an eye on your ship’s departure time; the dock is very convenient, so you won’t need a long transit back.

Overall, Sitka is ideal for self-guided exploration for visitors who enjoy walking, sightseeing, and a relaxed pace without booking excursions.