How to Plan Your Sitka Sightseeing Tour Including Fortress of the Bear
Are you planning a trip to Alaska and want to explore the historic city of Sitka? Look no further than the Sitka Sightseeing Tour, including the Fortress of the Bear. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll show you how to plan your tour and what to expect during your visit.
Overview of the Tour
The Sitka Sightseeing Tour is a 2-hour small-group tour that takes you across the O’Connell Bridge to Japonski Island. You’ll have the opportunity to admire the stunning scenery of Sitka National Historical Park, including its towering totem poles. You’ll also get up close and personal with rescued bears at the naturalized setting of Fortress of the Bear, and learn about Sitka’s role in World War II while visiting Japonski Island. Throughout the tour, informative guides will provide engaging commentary on the sites you visit.
Itinerary
The tour begins with a comfortable van ride that takes you across the O’Connell Bridge to Japonski Island. Along the way, you’ll learn about the history and culture of Sitka from your expert guide. The first stop on the tour is Sheldon Jackson Museum, where you can explore a collection of Alaskan Native artifacts and learn about the history of Sitka’s first boarding school. Next, you’ll visit the Alaska Pioneer Home. The home, built in 1934, was established to provide housing for senior citizens who had come to Alaska in the early part of the twentieth century.After the pioneer home, the tour stops at St. Michael’s Cathedral, a Russian Orthodox Church that dates back to the 1840s. With its distinctive onion domes, the cathedral provides a unique architectural contrast to the Alaskan wilderness.From the cathedral, the tour heads to the highlight of the trip, Fortress of the Bear. At the fortress, you’ll meet rescued bears living in a naturalized setting, and you will have the opportunity to learn more about the conservation work being done to protect and care for them.Finally, the tour visits Sitka National Historical Park, a beautiful park that preserves the culture and traditions of the Tlingit people. You’ll be able to admire the towering totem poles and explore the park’s trails and scenic overlooks.
What’s Included
The Sitka Sightseeing Tour includes a 2-hour scenic tour of Sitka by 10-passenger van. With a small-group tour limited to just 10 people, you’ll get a more personalized experience with your expert guide. The tour also includes admission to Fortress of the Bear.
Booking
To book the Sitka Sightseeing Tour including Fortress of the Bear, visit here. Be sure to book in advance, as space is limited.
Conclusion
The Sitka Sightseeing Tour including Fortress of the Bear is the perfect way to explore the historic city of Sitka and everything it has to offer. With engaging commentary from expert guides and up-close encounters with rescued bears, this tour is a must-see for anyone visiting Alaska. Book your tour today for an unforgettable experience!
The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Sitka, Alaska
Sitka is a small city located on Baranof Island in the Alexander Archipelago of the Pacific Ocean, in Southeast Alaska. It is surrounded by mountains and water, and that makes it an ideal tourist destination for people who love both, nature and history. In this blog post, we will provide answers to the most frequently asked questions about Sitka, Alaska.
1. What Is The Best Time To Visit Sitka?
Sitka has a maritime climate, which means that it is relatively mild all year round, with temperatures ranging between 30°F (-1°C) and 60°F (16°C). The best time to visit Sitka is between May and September, when the weather is warmer, and many events take place, such as the Sitka Summer Music Festival and the Southeast Alaska State Fair.
2. How to Get to Sitka?
The only way to get to Sitka is by air or by sea. There are daily flights from Juneau, Ketchikan, and Seattle, and Alaska Airlines and Delta Airlines operate these flights. Visitors can also arrive by ferry or cruise ship, and there are several companies that offer this service. The Alaska Marine Highway ferry system connects Sitka with other cities and towns in Southeast Alaska and beyond.
3. What Are The Best Things To Do In Sitka?
Sitka has many attractions, and there is something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in Sitka:- Visit the Sitka National Historical Park: This is a beautiful park that is home to the totem poles, and it offers a glimpse into the culture and heritage of the Tlingit people.- Visit the Fortress of the Bear: This is a sanctuary for orphaned bears, and it offers visitors a chance to get up close and personal with these magnificent animals.- Hike the Harbor Mountain Trail: This is a beautiful hike that offers stunning views of Sitka and its surrounding areas.- Visit the St. Michael’s Russian Orthodox Cathedral: This beautiful, onion-domed cathedral is a reminder of Sitka’s Russian past.- Explore the Sitka Sound Science Center: This is an interactive museum that offers visitors a chance to learn about the marine life in Sitka.
4. Where Can I Stay In Sitka?
Sitka offers many accommodation options, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals. Some of the best hotels in Sitka are the Totem Square Hotel & Marina and the Sitka Hotel. Visitors can also rent cabins or houses from local property management companies.
5. What Is The History Of Sitka?
Sitka has a rich history that dates back thousands of years, and it was once a thriving Tlingit village. In 1741, the Russian explorer, Vitus Bering, discovered Sitka and claimed it for Russia. The Russians built a trading post in Sitka, and it became the capital of Russian America in 1804. In 1867, Alaska was sold to the United States, and Sitka became the headquarters of the Alaska Department of Education. Today, Sitka is a vibrant community that is proud of its rich cultural heritage.
6. What Should I Pack For My Trip To Sitka?
Visitors to Sitka should pack warm and waterproof clothing, as well as comfortable shoes for hiking. They should also pack binoculars for wildlife watching, a camera to capture the beautiful scenery, and insect repellent for the mosquitoes that can be found near water sources.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Sitka is a beautiful city that has something for everyone. Visitors can explore its rich cultural history, hike its beautiful trails, and observe its magnificent wildlife. The best time to visit Sitka is between May and September, and visitors can get there by air or by sea. To make the most of your trip, pack warm and waterproof clothing, comfortable shoes, binoculars, a camera, and insect repellent. We hope that this blog post has provided answers to the most frequently asked questions about Sitka, Alaska.
How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Sitka
Sitka is a charming town on the coast of Alaska, surrounded by stunning mountain ranges and tranquil waters. Known for its rich history and culture, Sitka is also home to breathtaking natural landscapes and unique wildlife. Whether you’re planning a short visit or an extended stay, there are plenty of things to see and do in Sitka. Here’s a guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Sitka.
1. Visit Sitka National Historical Park
Sitka National Historical Park is a must-visit attraction in Sitka. This park commemorates the culture and history of the Tlingit people, who have lived in the area for thousands of years. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the park, walk the Totem Trail, and explore the exhibits at the Visitors Center. You’ll also have the chance to see bald eagles, bears, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
2. Take a Wildlife Tour
If you’re interested in seeing Sitka’s wildlife up close, consider taking a wildlife tour. You can book a boat tour or a kayaking tour, depending on your preferences. Tours will take you to areas where you can see humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, seals, eagles, and more. You can also take a tour to see Sitka’s famous bears up close.
3. Go Fishing
Sitka is one of the best fishing destinations in Alaska, offering a wide variety of fishing options. You can go salmon fishing in the streams, rivers, or the ocean. Halibut fishing is also popular, with boats taking visitors out to deeper waters. If you’re interested in fly fishing, Sitka offers some of the best freshwater fishing opportunities in the world.
4. Visit the Sitka Sound Science Center
The Sitka Sound Science Center is a research facility dedicated to promoting the study of marine and aquatic resources. Visitors can participate in hands-on exhibits, view live marine creatures in the aquariums, and learn about the science behind the local fisheries. The Science Center also offers classes and workshops for all ages.
5. Explore Sitka’s Russian Heritage
Sitka has a rich Russian history, dating back to the early 1800s. You can visit the Russian Bishop’s House, which was built in 1842 and is now a National Historic Landmark. The house offers daily tours and exhibits on the history and culture of the Russian settlers in Sitka. You can also explore St. Michael’s Cathedral, a Russian Orthodox church built in 1848.
6. Hike Through the Tongass National Forest
The Tongass National Forest surrounds Sitka, offering stunning views and amazing hiking opportunities. You can take a guided hike or explore the trails on your own. Some of the top hiking trails in the area include the Indian River Trail, the Gavan Hill Trail, and the Mosquito Cove Trail. You’ll have the chance to see Sitka’s wildlife up close and marvel at the beauty of the surrounding mountains and forests.
7. Visit Sitka’s Local Eateries
Sitka is a food lover’s paradise, with a variety of local eateries serving up fresh, delicious meals. You can try local seafood specialties like halibut, salmon, and crab, as well as traditional Alaskan dishes like reindeer sausage and bannock bread. Some of the top restaurants in Sitka include Ludvig’s Bistro, Beak Restaurant, and Taproot Cafe.
8. Attend a Festival or Event
Sitka hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating everything from music and art to food and culture. Some of the top events include the Sitka Seafood Festival, the Sitka Jazz Festival, and the Sitka Summer Music Festival. Check the local calendar to see what’s happening during your visit.
Conclusion
With its unique combination of natural beauty, rich history, and friendly community, Sitka is an ideal destination for tourists. By following this guide on how to spend your time in Sitka, you’ll be able to explore all the best attractions and activities this amazing town has to offer. Be sure to pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable Alaskan experience!
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