Once the capital of Alaska, Sitka is where Alaska was transferred from Russia to the United States. The city is a rich blend of Russian and Tlingit culture.
Located on Baranof Island, within the largest temperate rainforest, Sitka boasts stunning scenery and wildlife. Between historical sites and nature exploration, there is a variety of things to do in Sitka!
1. St. Michaels Orthodox Cathedral
Right in the heart of the town is the St. Michaels Orthodox Cathedral. Established in 1848, St. Michaels is the first Orthodox Cathedral in North America.
The current cathedral is reconstructed based on historical drawings, boasting white walls and beautiful green copper domes. It’s a lovely site to see while visiting Sitka.
If you want to enter the church, it isn’t always clear when it will be open to the public, so check back during your stay if it isn’t open initially. There is a $5 “donation” to enter. The interior is intricate and historically stunning, with heavy Russian influence.
2. Shopping
Sitka is full of shops with unique items. Lincoln street, where the Cathedral is located, is home to many shops and restaurants. You can find traditional Native Alaska goods, Russian goods artwork, Sitka caught salmon, and much much more! Take a stroll down the street to see all there is to offer. Stop in and chat with some of the locals; everyone is friendly!
3. Castle Hill
Baranof Castle State Historic Site, also known as Castle Hill, is where the United States purchased Alaska from Russia. It is also the location of the first 49-star flag to be flown in the United States.
These days the historical building is long gone, and it’s a short hike up to a grassy hill adorned with cannons and flags. But, it does boast a great view of Sitka and has some plaques detailing the location’s history.
Castle Hill is an excellent historical visit in Sitka!
4. Sitka National Historic Park
The Sitka National Historic Park is the location of The Battle of Sitka, an armed conflict between the Alaskan Natives and Russians.
Today the park houses a collection of replica totem poles that line the beautiful coastal trail within the park. The trail is a nice easy walk among spruce and hemlock trees, a lovely scenic escape.
5. Alaska Raptor Center
The Alaska Raptor Center is a rehabilitation and release center for birds, specializing in raptors. They see 100s of bird patients a year.
Those birds which are too injured to release back to the wild take up residence at the center. These raptors are a part of their public education program about raptor habitats and history.
Hours: 8:00am – 4:00pm
Price:
Adults: $15
Children 6-12: $6
Children 5 and Under: Free!
6. Visit a Local Restaurant
There are a bunch of local restaurants in Sitka offering various cuisine types! Sit down at Ludvig’s Bistro for fantastic seafood, or visit their chowder cart near the National Historic Park. Stop into Backdoor Cafe for a welcoming atmosphere and delicious baked goods, or visit Ashmo’s, a local food truck, for some delicious seafood on the go! There are so many great local food options.
7. See the Salmon Run
Seeing the salmon run depends on what time of year you visit, but if you are lucky enough, definitely take a little time to check out the salmon making their annual trip upriver.
They start in the ocean, where you can see them jumping out of the water. They then make their way up the Indian River, which winds through the Sitka National Historic Park. You can get a great view of the salmon if you hike around the park. It’s a unique experience.
