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Excursions |
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- Isabel Miller Museum
- Sheldon Jackson Museum
- Sitka National Historical Park
- Whale Park
- Japonski Island
- Historic Nature Walk
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Isabel Miller Museum
This is a repository of Sitka's rich history. This is where the history of all cultures of Sitka's past approach togetherness in a museum operated by the Sitka Historical Society. The museum gets it name from a longtime Sitkan, Isabel Miller, who helped establish the museum and worked as a volunteer.
The inconspicuous location of the Isabel Miller Museum in Harrigan Centennial Hall might lead a person to believe a visit wouldn't be worthwhile. While, in fact, the eclectic collection of artifacts is sure to have something fascinating for visitors and locals alike from the photographs of early-day Sitkan E.W. Merrill to a Russian rifle, authentic trade beads and hand-woven spruce baskets, the museum is a must for a visit to Sitka. |
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Sheldon Jackson Museum
If there were a museum for museums, the Sheldon Jackson Museum in Sitka would be part of the collection. It is the oldest museum in Alaska and is located in the first concrete building in the state. Construction began in 1895 and it has been occupied since 1897. The building was placed on the National Historical Register in 1972.
While the building may be as old as some of the items in its collection, its exhibits reflect recent renovation and a dedication to professional museum standards. The Museum's collection has been called a jewel in the crown of Alaska ethnographic collections. |
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Sitka National Historical Park
Alaska's oldest federally designated park was established in 1910 to commemorate the 1804 Battle of Sitka. All that remains of this last major conflict between Europeans and Alaska Natives is the site of the Tlingit Fort and battlefield, located within this scenic 113 acre park in a temperate rain forest.
Southeast Alaska totem poles and a temperate rain forest setting combine to provide spectacular scenery along the park's coastal trail. The trail circles back along Indian River to the visitor center. Another loop trail continues across the Indian River footbridge past the Memorial to the Russian Midshipmen who died in the Battle of Sitka.
The park's story continues at the Russian Bishop's House, one of the last surviving examples of Russian colonial architecture in North America. This original 1843 log structure conveys the legacy of Russian America through exhibits, refurbished Bishop's living quarters and lavish icons in the Chapel of the Annunciation. |
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Whale Park
Dedicated in July 1995, Whale Park provides an opportunity to view wildlife (from the boardwalk), including humpback whales in the late fall and early spring months. The park is located about 6 miles south of downtown and has a small sheltered picnic area and free viewing scopes. A hydro phone is located in the main shelter area to listen to the "songs" of the humpback whales. |
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Japonski Island
WW II headquarters for military forces who served in Sitka. During WW II, Japonski Island was connected by a man-made causeway in the 1940's to the surrounding chain of islands which served as a location for bunkers and gunning sites. Though the bunkers and sites are not well preserved, they are accessible by boat. The island was connected to Sitka by the O'Connell Bridge in 1972. Presently, it is the site of a USCG Air Station and Boat Station, University of Alaska Southeast, Mt. Edgecumbe High School, Southeast Alaska Regional Health Center, and the Rocky Gutierrez Airport. |
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Historic Nature Walk
Become immersed in the fascinating history and natural beauty of Sitka on this exploration by foot, in the company of a knowledgeable Sitka guide. You will receive a snack of juice and a snack bar to enjoy during your 2 1/2-mile walk. You begin walking around the base of Castle Hill, where Alaska was purchased from Russia. Continuing through the historic district, you pass through Totem Square and the grounds of the pioneer home. See the Prospector Statue and Russian Blockhouse centered in the old Russian Cemetery where gravesites of early Russian missionaries and royalty can be found. Pass St Michael's Russian Orthodox Cathedral and the Russian Bishop's House en route to Sheldon Jackson College (home to James Michener during the writing of his book, Alaska.) Ahead lies the Sitka National Historical Park where flat walking trails, lined with authentic totems guide you through the lush Tongass National Forest. Crossing the bridge at Indian River, you will hear interesting facts about the rain forest ecosystem as well as identify the local plant and animal life. Spawning salmon are seen here, usually late in the summer. Ascending the trail to the Raptor Center, you encounter the swamp-like muskeg that is home to most of Alaska's bird, plant and wild berry life. Explore and photograph the Raptor Center's open bird habitat and clinic area with great views of bald eagles, owls, hawks and other birds of prey are found throughout the grounds. Staff wildlife interpreters from the Center are stationed in strategic areas to answer questions and explain the Raptor Center's mission. Those wishing to continue to explore Sitka will be dropped in the center of the historic downtown area at the Cathedral, about two blocks from the dock. | |
Save time, money and stress! For reservations: Fill out the vacation planner to be contacted by a Sitka vacation specialist.
Contact : Travelwizard.com
Phone: 1-800-330-8820 or 1-415-446-5252
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