Things to do in Alaska cruise ports

Wooden boardwalks still line the main drag of Skagway, and false-front buildings remind passersby of frontier ambition. For guests stepping ashore, it’s easy to picture the town as it was during the stampede of 1898, when tens of thousands arrived in search of fortune.

That story comes to life aboard the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, a narrow-gauge train that climbs through staggering terrain once crossed by hopeful prospectors. During the White Pass Scenic Railway excursion, the railcars pass glacial rivers and sheer granite walls. 

For those more interested in walking the same ground that gold seekers once did, the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park anchors downtown Skagway. The visitor center features original buildings and, in summer, ranger-led tours that bring the old saloons and depots to life. It’s free to explore and easy to reach, making it perfect for guests looking to make the most of a port day without straying far from the ship.

If you're after something more active, the Chilkoot Trail invites a different kind of connection. This former trade route turned prospector path begins just outside town and quickly dives into deep forest. While the full trail stretches to Canada, even a short out-and-back hike can be fun.

Ketchikan pulls you in from the very first moment. From the ship, you’ll see forested hills rising behind a waterfront of stilted houses and fishing boats. Rain often hangs in the air, but it only sharpens the green of the trees and the scent of wet cedar. Among the many things to do in Ketchikan, visitors can explore totem parks, stroll along Creek Street, or try their luck on a salmon fishing trip.

One of the most recognizable corners of town is Creek Street, a wooden boardwalk perched above Ketchikan Creek. Once a red-light district, it’s now a hub of small galleries, museums and seafood spots. During salmon season, you can watch the fish push their way upstream beneath your feet, often with harbor seals nearby hoping for an easy catch. 

Just outside the city, Totem Bight State Park offers a glimpse into the cultural traditions of the Tlingit and Haida people. Set within a coastal rainforest, the park features a collection of restored totem poles and a replica clan house. Guided tours are a great way to learn about the historical context of the area. 

Fishing here is another great way to experience the region’s pulse. Local charters welcome all skill levels, and half-day trips (such as the Ketchikan Salmon Fishing excursion) make it easy to fit casting into your port schedule. You’ll be casting in one of the most productive areas for Alaska cruise fishing excursions. For guests looking to experience the best fishing in Alaska, Ketchikan rarely disappoints.

Sitka doesn’t try to impress, but it still quietly delivers. Set between volcanic peaks and the sea, this former Russian capital has an atmosphere all its own. Tlingit heritage shapes the community as much as the surrounding landscape.

Begin with a walk through Sitka National Historical Park, where centuries-old totem poles stand along a coastal trail lined with spruce trees. The path follows the shoreline of the Indian River, where salmon return each summer. Inside the visitor center, you’ll find carving demonstrations and exhibits that reflect Alaska Native artistry.

Just outside of town, Fortress of the Bear gives rescued brown bears a second chance. The facility transforms a former pulp mill into a spacious bear habitat, with elevated viewing platforms that let guests watch the animals at ease. It’s both educational and deeply memorable, particularly for those curious about bears in Alaska beyond the fleeting glimpse.

Nearby, the Alaska Raptor Center offers another kind of wildlife encounter. Dedicated to rehabilitating injured birds, the center specializes in raptors like bald eagles, owls and hawks. Guests can observe these birds during flight training or meet permanent residents who help with education and outreach. 

Visit both with the Wild Alaska: Alaska Raptor Center & Fortress of the Bear excursion.

Surrounded by dense forest and looking out onto open water, Icy Strait Point is one of the only cruise ports fully owned and operated by Alaska Natives. That means the experiences here are shaped by people who call this place home.

Guests often start with wildlife tours like the Whales & Wildlife Cruise. The waters near Icy Strait are known for consistent whale sightings, especially humpbacks. You may also spot sea lions, porpoises or even a pod of orcas as you cruise the channel. For guests interested in the best time to cruise Alaska for whales, midseason sailings typically offer peak activity.

On land, adventure takes many forms. Some guests choose the zipline that descends more than a mile from the mountaintop (one of the world’s longest), while others head out on forest trails. Cultural experiences also stand out here, with dance performances, storytelling and heritage presentations offered by local Tlingit hosts.

There’s nothing quite like stepping onto a glacier and hearing it creak beneath your boots. On guided glacier treks, guests are led across blue-white expanses where ancient ice meets alpine terrain. These excursions often include helicopter flights that touch down on remote icefields inaccessible by road.

Mendenhall and Herbert glaciers near Juneau are popular options for guests seeking accessible treks with expert guides.

There are landscapes in Alaska that can’t be fully grasped from the ground. Flightseeing offers a chance to lift off in a floatplane or helicopter and see the region from above. Fjords stretch for miles, icefields glint in subtle shades of blue and remote valleys unfold with no signs of human presence.

Princess offers flightseeing excursions that explore some of the most striking corners of the state. Some itineraries include landings on remote ridgelines or alpine lakes, giving guests time to step out into silence and take it all in. Others trace the edges of Alaska glaciers, where deep crevasses and towering icefalls come into view with nothing but a windowpane between you and the elements.

Port days can move quickly, and popular experiences (like glacier hikes and wildlife tours) tend to fill early. Pre-booking your preferred shore excursions guarantees your spot, while also giving you more time to plan around it.

Booking directly through Princess offers added peace of mind. Excursions are timed with ship arrivals and departures, and the handpicked operators meet Princess standards for safety and service. If a tour runs late, the ship waits — a comfort not guaranteed with independent providers. And for guests on an Alaska land and sea cruise, Princess handles the details from port to wilderness lodge so you can focus on the experience itself.

Not every adventure has to come with a price tag. Some of the most memorable moments in Alaska happen without booking a tour at all. Many ports offer well-marked trails, free museums or community-run visitor centers with walking maps and suggested routes. In Sitka, for example, it’s easy to stroll from the pier to historical parks on quiet paths.

Local shuttle services can also expand your range affordably. In Juneau, budget-conscious guests often use public transport or low-cost buses to reach Mendenhall Glacier, then enjoy the area at their own pace. Just remember to bring a printed map or download one ahead of time.

Alaska’s weather changes quickly, so you need to be ready for it. Start with layers: moisture-wicking shirts, fleece or down for warmth and a waterproof outer shell. Even in summer, mornings can feel crisp and sudden rain isn’t uncommon, particularly along coastal towns like Ketchikan.

Sturdy shoes are a must for exploring glacial terrain and navigating boardwalks slick with sea mist. A compact backpack works well for carrying water, snacks and an extra layer, while a camera or smartphone will be worth its weight once you spot a breaching whale or soaring eagle.

When you’re reviewing your Alaska cruise packing list, don’t forget smaller essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent and gloves.