Sitka Travel Guide

Welcome to Sitka!

Only accessible by air or sea, this unique Alaskan city is wedged between mountains and the Pacific Ocean on the western side of Baranof Island. A tumultuous past between Tlingit inhabitants and Russian fur-trade settlers at the turn of the 19th century gave way to a distinct Russian and native heritage, evident in the city's numerous historic sites. St. Michael's Cathedral is a reconstruction of the original 1848 Russian church and the Sitka National Historical Park commemorates the Battle of Sitka and is also home to the Southeast Alaska Indian Cultural Center. Castle Hill was the site of transfer when the United States purchased Alaska from Russia on October 18, 1867, and visitors can witness a reenactment of this significant moment here on the hill every year on Alaska Day. Affectionately referred to as —Sitka-by-the-Sea—, this culturally-rich city sees thousands upon thousands of cruise ship passengers pour into town during summer to browse galleries of traditional crafts, explore harbor nooks in sea kayaks, fish waters famous for salmon and halibut, hike forested mountains and catch a glimpse of Alaskan wildlife. In spring and fall, a visit to Whale Park will often reward nature lovers with humpback whale sightings, and November's WhaleFest will educate and entertain those lingering on into winter.

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