Take in the sights and learn about the history of the former capital of Russian America with this guided Sitka walking tour. Hear stories of the town’s past as you admire Russian and Gold Rush architecture in the historic downtown, plus learn about the local Tlingit culture. Touch on top sights like Crescent Harbor, St. Michael's Russian Orthodox Cathedral, Sitka Pioneers' Home, and Castle Hill in just an hour.

Delve into the history of Sitka and its Russian and Tlingit cultures
Plenty of time to explore on your own after this short one-hour tour
Admire a variety of architectural styles plus views over the water
A budget-friendly group experience that won’t break the bank

What To Expect

Crescent Harbor

The first stop on the tour is in front of picturesque Crescent Harbor. The guide will explain the daily workings of a fishing town in Alaska from the personal perspective of a commercial and charter fisherman.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Sitka Sound Science Center

Our guide will discuss the role the famous Sitka Sound Science Center plays in researching sustainable fishing. If one of the salmon runs is occurring it is possible to see salmon jumping up the stream into the hatchery processing station.
• Admission Ticket Free

Sitka Fine Arts Camp

Taking a step back in time, our guide will tell the history of the Sheldon Jackson College campus. The campus has transformed dramatically over its 145 year history: originally founded as an “Indian Boarding School” this campus is now the Sitka Fine Arts Camp.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

St. Michael’s Russian Orthodox Cathedral

Our guide will highlight the history, architecture, and significance of the Russian Orthodox Cathedral in the center of downtown Sitka. Note that this walking tour takes place entirely outside.
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Sitka Pioneers’ Home

Here you will see the grounds of the Sitka Pioneers’ Home. This majestic building has a rich history and still plays an important role in the lives of Alaskans. Our guide will showcase the totem pole and prospector statue that stand in front of the grand building. Note that this walking tour takes place entirely outside.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Castle Hill

The tour ends at Baranof Castle State Historic Site, also known as “Castle Hill”. This is the location where Russian Alaska was purchased by the United States. After the tour the guide will accompany anyone who would like to make the ascent of Castle Hill. The end point is a 5 min walk to the cruise shuttle loading zone, and a 2 min walk from downtown Sitka.
15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Highlight

Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Wheelchair accessible
Service animals allowed
Near public transportation
Transportation is wheelchair accessible
Surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Most travelers can participate
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 25 travelers

Include

Umbrella
All Fees and Taxes
Resident Guide (Contact us for Spanish-speaking and other private tour options)
Local tips for restaurants and exploration

Exclude

Transportation (Tour starts from free cruise shuttle drop-off)
Gratuities (Always appreciated by our passionate guides!)