A day itinerary: 10 things to do in Sitka
You disembark your cruise ship in Sitka, Alaska, in the peak of visitor season and pause. You’ve forgotten to plan your day–no tours, no reservations, nothing.Â
What do you do in Sitka for a day?
Don’t panic. This itinerary features 10 things to do that keep you close to the bus drop off at Harrigan Centennial Hall and back on your ship with plenty of time
1. Grab a coffee in downtown Sitka.
Sitka has a wide array of coffee shops, from modern to cozy. Everyone will find their place and their favorite drink. Many spots have bakeries and snacks to start your day off on a happy note. Take it to go or sit down and enjoy the early morning calm before your day in Sitka.
2. Mosey along downtown.
Sitka has history within walking distance of your coffee. From the Russian Orthodox Church built in 1834, to the harbors with decades of fishing stories. Check out Castle Hill as well, where Sitka was sold from Russia to the United States.
3. Explore Totem Park.
Totem Park features history about the wars between the Russian people and Tlingit people of Sheet’ka. Be sure to read the signposts throughout the park while enjoying the Totem Poles which have been brought to Sitka from surrounding towns for the display.
Whether you are someone who enjoys gathering memorabilia from the towns you have visited or are just looking for a nice gift for someone back home, Sitka has it all. With gift shops, kitchen stores, bookstores and more, you will probably find something that needs to come home with you.
5. Grab some lunch.
You will likely see food trucks scattered throughout downtown Sitka. If you are looking for a sit-down lunch, you will find many of those, too. Keep in mind the hours of the day and the day of the week, and note some restaurants may have a small wait. Get there earlier than you’d like to keep those little ones in happy moods.
6. A sit down show.
There are a couple of shows that run multiple times a day depending on the passenger numbers. Check their schedules and get a ticket. Alaska Storytellers tells the history of Sitka in a quick 30 minute show of dance and storytelling. The Sheet’ká Kwáan Naa KahÃdi Dancers showcase authentic Tlingit singing and drumming with handmade regalia as well. These are both unique opportunities to learn about Sitka’s history.
7. Grab a drink at a local pub or bar.
Downtown Sitka has many pubs and bars to relax in that will fit your vision of a fishing town pub.
With touch tanks and many knowledgeable scientists around, learn about Sitka’s oceans, animals and wildlife. Experience marine life right in front of you and learn how the center helps study and maintain our salmon population.
9. Catch the bus back to port.
Lines get long toward the end of the bus schedule. Catch one earlier to avoid the chaos.
10. Grab some packaged treats or gifts.
Sitka’s cruise terminal is plentiful in its gift stores. Wander them before heading back to your comfy bed on the ship.
It can be hard to fit in everything in Sitka, but this is one of our favorite ways to see a large amount of the town and have a lovely experience.
Be sure to do some research the day you arrive to make sure shows are running, the shops you hope to visit are open, and your day will run smoothly.Â
And lastly, enjoy Sitka!
