In 1799, Russian explorer Alexander Baranof founded New Archangel next to the Tlingit village of Sitka, marking the beginning of permanent Russian settlement in North America. Three years later, the Tlingit people destroyed the settlement in an effort to reclaim their ancestral home. In 1804, Baranof returned with warships and retook Sitka in the Battle of Sitka, establishing it as the capital of Russian America.
In 1867, the Imperial Russian flag was replaced by the Stars and Stripes when the United States purchased Alaska. With the discovery of gold and rapid population growth, Alaska’s capital moved north to Juneau in 1906.
Today, picturesque Sitka sits opposite snow-capped Mount Edgecumbe and is known for its fishing, its annual summer classical-music festival, and its many historic attractions.
Outdoor Adventures
Hiking, biking, kayaking, marine wildlife viewing, fishing, ocean rafting and more in an outdoors enthusiast’s paradise.
St. Michael’s Russian Orthodox Cathedral
An outstanding example of Russian architecture. Originally built in 1848, it houses important Orthodox art and church treasures and is the seat of the Diocese in Alaska.
Alaska Raptor Center
A 17-acre non-profit dedicated to caring for injured bald eagles and other birds. The Raptors-in-Residence program provides homes for birds unable to return to the wild.
Wildlife Cruise
Navigate narrow passages and open bays for close-up views of whales, sea lions, and bald eagles along Sitka’s dramatic coastline.
Sheldon Jackson Museum
Established in 1887, Alaska’s first museum features artifacts from Alaska Native groups and a shop with works by Native artists.
Sitka National Historical Park
Alaska’s oldest national park (est. 1910) commemorates the 1804 Battle of Sitka. Stroll coastal trails among towering spruce and an extensive totem pole collection.
Sitka Sound Science Center
Home to an active salmon hatchery, saltwater aquariums, and touch tanks with exhibits on local marine life in Sitka Sound.
Fortress of the Bear
A non-profit bear rescue facility with a three-quarter-acre habitat for orphaned brown bear cubs. Observe from elevated viewing platforms.
Princess shore excursions in Sitka
Already booked your cruise? Reserve shore excursions in Manage Booking.
Special child pricing available: Children 12 and younger can save up to 50%.
Easy Sitka: Historic City Highlights — 3.5 hours; Easy; from $124.95; 4.1/5 (81). View details
Easy Sitka: Historic City Highlights (Wheelchair Accessible) — 3.5 hours; Easy; Wheelchair Accessible; from $124.95. View details
All About Sitka – Russian & Tlingit Heritage Discovery — 2.5 hours; Easy; from $119.95; 4.3/5 (88). View details
Alaska Raptor Center, Totem Park & Tlingit Performance — 3.5 hours; Easy; from $129.95; 4.4/5 (87). View details
Experience Sitka: Raptor Center, Park & Fortress of the Bear — 3.5 hours; Moderate; from $119.95. View details
Experience Sitka: Raptor Center, Park & Fortress of the Bear (Wheelchair Accessible) — 3.5 hours; Moderate; Wheelchair Accessible; from $119.95. View details
Wild Alaska: Alaska Raptor Center & Fortress of the Bear — 3.5 hours; Easy; from $164.95; 4.2/5 (42). View details
Wild Alaska: Alaska Raptor Center & Fortress of the Bear (Wheelchair Accessible) — 3.5 hours; Easy; Wheelchair Accessible; from $164.95. View details
Sitka Sightseeing & Fortress of the Bear — 2 hours; Easy; from $99.95. View details
Totems, City & Raptor Encounter at the Alaskan Odyssey Theater — 2.75 hours; Easy; from $99.95; 4.0/5 (1). View details
Taste of Sitka – A Food Lover’s Tour — 3 hours; Moderate; from $129.95; 3.9/5 (44). View details
Metal Torching Alaska Art Class — 3 hours; Moderate; from $269.95. View details
Guided Photography Tour — 2 hours; Easy; from $169.95. View details
Historic Downtown Walking Tour — 1 hour; Moderate; Wheelchair Accessible; from $59.95. View details
Several excursions are designated Wheelchair Accessible, including:
Easy Sitka: Historic City Highlights (Wheelchair Accessible)
Experience Sitka: Raptor Center, Park & Fortress of the Bear (Wheelchair Accessible)
Wild Alaska: Alaska Raptor Center & Fortress of the Bear (Wheelchair Accessible)
Historic Downtown Walking Tour (Wheelchair Accessible)
Look for “Wheelchair Accessible” and “Easy Activity” labels when reserving in Manage Booking.
Plan your Princess itinerary
Explore voyages that call on Sitka: Find cruises with Sitka, Alaska
Reserve shore excursions and manage plans in Manage Booking.
Trip protection: Princess Vacation Protection is available during booking and may include medical expense coverage, personal belongings coverage, trip delay and interruption coverage, and dedicated support. Review details and terms in your booking flow.