Ketchikan Without an Excursion: Creek Street, Salmon Run & a Deadliest Catch Boat!
Can you explore Ketchikan, Alaska, without paying for an expensive cruise-ship excursion? Absolutely! During our port stop aboard Serenade of the Seas, we set out to see how much of Ketchikan we could experience on foot—and for almost no money. We started at the iconic “Welcome to Ketchikan—Alaska’s 1st City” sign before walking along historic Creek Street, once the city’s red-light district. From there, we climbed Married Man’s Trail alongside Ketchikan Creek and made our way to the salmon ladder. The salmon run was active, and we watched as the salmon attempted to battle their way through the rapids and waterfalls—while a few of the smarter ones actually used the ladder! After returning to the waterfront, we spotted the Aleutian Ballad, a Bering Sea crab-fishing vessel known to fans of Deadliest Catch. Despite the busy port and four cruise ships in town, we enjoyed a beautiful day exploring Ketchikan and spent just $5 on a souvenir magnet. No excursion, no restaurant meals, and no expensive transportation—just comfortable shoes, two bottles of water from the ship, and a willingness to explore. We also share an important accessibility warning about Married Man’s Trail and an easier alternative for visitors with mobility challenges. Ketchikan proved that you really can experience Alaska on a budget—and still have an incredible day. Subscribe and follow Harrison Adventures as we continue exploring Alaska, Hawaii, and destinations around the world by cruise ship, train, car, and plane. Your adventure. Your vacation. Perfectly Planned. #Ketchikan #AlaskaCruise #CruisePort #CreekStreet #SalmonRun #AlaskaOnABudget #SerenadeOfTheSeas #RoyalCaribbean #HarrisonAdventures