Sitka, Alaska
 

Historic and scenic Sikta, situated on Baranof Island, is considered Alaska's prettiest coastal town and is a favorite charter yacht destination. It's situated on Alaska's Inside Passage, between forest-laden mountains and the Pacific Ocean, and has a unique blend of Tlingit and Russian culture and history. Yacht charter visitors are attracted to the area's wilderness and rich diversity of wildlife. Humpback whales feed in the waters in late fall and early spring and the area also teems with sea otters and sea lions while St. Lazaria National Wildlife Refuge attracts tufted puffins. Sitka also lies at the heart of the Tongass National Forest, the largest temperate rain forest in the world. The park has well-marked hiking mountain trails and kayaking opportunities.

Attractions

The Sitka National Historical Park is a 107-acre preserve dedicated to the preservation of the site of a Tlingit Indian Fort and highlights an 1804 battle between the tribe and Russian settlers. Along with a fine collection of Haida and Tlingit totem poles the museum contains an exhibit of Tlingit and Russian artifacts.

Sitka, Alaska

Sitka Totem Poles

The Sitka Historical Museum contains all elements of the town's history in one place, including photographs and artifacts from the Tlingit, Russian and American history and cultures.

The Southeast Alaska Indian Cultural Center is a working artist's studio for local Tlingit, Haida and Tsimpsian who create long-practiced cultural arts. This unique studio provides a one-on-one experience for yacht charter visitors to view master native artists creating contemporary pieces of traditional art forms such as hand-chiseled wood totem poles and other wood carvings, silver carving, weaving and beadwork. Located in Sitka National Historical Park's visitor center, the center is open year-round.

The Russian Bishop's House is the oldest intact Russian building in Sitka. Built in 1842 as the residence of the Bishop of the Russian Orthodox Church, it has also been used as a school and chapel.

The Sheldon Jackson Museum is home to one of the oldest native culture collections in Alaska. It's open between May and September and during the summer a daily native artist demonstration is given.