Ketchikan, Alaska, known as 'Alaska's First City,' sits on Revillagigedo Island at the Inside Passage's southern tip. The city is famous for salmon fishing and Alaska Native culture. Downtown is a National Historic Landmark with Creek Street's stilted buildings. It's popular with remote workers who value nature and community.
Lifestyle🍽️
Seafood dominates with salmon, crab, and halibut dishes. Also offers American, Mexican, Filipino, Chinese, and Italian food. Some vegetarian and vegan options. Limited late-night food.
Small bar and pub scene with spots like Jeremiah's Pub and Sourdough Cocktail Bar.
Several coffee shops serve local brews and coffee. No strong third-wave scene.
Standard US tipping applies: 15-20% in restaurants, a few dollars for taxis, 10-15% for services.
SIM cards from AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile are available at carrier stores. ID or passport needed for activation.
Services & Infrastructure
Generally clean streets and good waste management. Typical of a tourist-friendly US city.
24/7 services are rare. Some stores have extended hours, few late-night food or pharmacies.
Walmart and local stores carry common goods, including some international products. Most stores open 8 AM - 9 PM.
Card payments are widely accepted. Cash is rarely needed.
ATMs are common in banks, grocery stores, and commercial areas. Out-of-network fees may apply.
Ketchikan has public schools with English instruction. No known international schools.
Work & Digital💻
An emerging remote worker scene supported by the 'Choose Ketchikan' program. Limited meetups and co-working.
Nature & Activities🌿
Plenty of parks and forest access nearby. Trails are shaded and good for walking or running.
Rainbird Trail and other green spaces offer scenic running routes. Terrain varies and weather can change quickly.
Gyms offer classes, equipment, and courts for basketball and racquet sports.
No dedicated tennis courts reported.
No padel courts reported.
No specific yoga studios noted. Wellness classes available at Optimum Health & Wellness.
No specific martial arts facilities noted. English is the main language.
No ski resorts near Ketchikan.
Kayaking tours and rentals are popular. Sailing charters available. Paddleboarding less common.
Surf spots are far away with cold water requiring heavy wetsuits. Not practical from Ketchikan.
Snorkeling tours offer views of sea stars, crabs, and other marine life. Equipment rental included. Best in summer.
Health & Safety🏥
Good quality medical care with English-speaking staff. Pharmacies open during business hours. Emergency number is 911.
Tap water is generally safe to drink in Ketchikan.
Community & Family
Good parks and family attractions like the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show. Baby supplies readily available.
Legal protections in place; local acceptance moderate but not widely documented.
Parks allow dogs; some beaches let dogs swim. Veterinary and pet supply stores available.
Quick Facts
Power is mostly reliable but may go out occasionally due to weather.
Beaches like Settlers Cove State Recreation Site feature sandy shores for walking and wildlife viewing. Water is cold, so not ideal for swimming.
Nearby trails include Deer Mountain and Rainbird Trail, accessible by foot or short ride. Hikes range from easy to challenging.
⚠️Natural Disasters Risk
🌦️Seasonal Issues
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