13 Best Hotels In Ketchikan, Alaska (From Luxury to Hostels)

Ketchikan is nicknamed “The Gateway to Alaska” for a good reason: it’s the first city that most visitors see when coming north from Seattle or Vancouver. It is located on Revillagigedo Island in the Alexander Archipelago.

Ketchikan has a population of just over 8,000 people, it has the sixth-highest number of people in the state and the third-highest in Southeast Alaska, behind only Juneau and Sitka. Counting Saxman, Ward Cove, and the rest of the island, there are over 13,000.

It is often used as a starting point for journeys to beautiful Prince of Wales Island via float plane or the Inter-Island Ferry Authority (IFA), whose ferries depart from the Alaska Marine Highway Terminal.

In addition to fishing, wildlife viewing, and museums, Ketchikan is also vibrant with Alaska Native culture. There are multiple totem pole parks, museums, and other opportunities to learn about the rich histories of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian.

It is also the easiest way to take a day trip to the Metlakatla Indian Community on Annette Island, Alaska’s only official reservation and home to the Tsimshian people.

Before we get into the list of hotels, let’s take a look at a few facts about Ketchikan and the rest of Revillagigedo Island that will help you in choosing your lodging:

• Visitors who fly into Ketchikan Airport should be aware that the airport is on nearby Gravina Island (which has no accommodations) and requires a trip on the Airport Ferry, which runs every half-hour. Arriving at the airport early is highly recommended.

• The Native Alaskan village community of Saxman lies just south of the city, although it is often considered to be part of Ketchikan. It is famous for its Totem Park, which contains the largest collection of standing totem poles in the world!

• Saxman itself does not have much in the way of accommodations but there are a few fishing lodges and vacation rentals south on the Tongass Highway.

• Fishing is a major industry on Revillagigedo Island and, as such, offers many fishing lodges both in Ketchikan, as well as along the Tongass Highway, both north and south of the city.

• There are two cruise ship docks on the island: one is close to downtown and the other is seven miles north, in the unincorporated community of Ward Cove.

• Rental cars are available both at the airport and in town. If you rent from the airport, you’ll have an easier time with luggage but you’ll have to take it on the Airport Ferry.

• The city’s public transportation system, called “The Bus” operates year-round and costs $2 each way or $5 for an all-day pass. The Green Line runs from Walmart in the north to the area near the Totem Heritage Center in the south. The other route, The Silver Line, runs from Knudsen Cove (roughly 15 miles north) to Fawn Mountain (roughly 10 miles south).

• All accommodations on this list offer free WiFi. Locations farther from the city center may have unpredictable cell phone service although the Saxman area received an upgrade a few years ago and now has a better signal.

• Uber and Lyft do not currently operate in the city and there are no plans to introduce them at this time (at least not plans that have been made public). However, there are several taxi services that will take you anywhere on the island’s road system.

Best Hotels In Ketchikan

The Landing Hotel

Address: 3434 Tongass Avenue
Airport Shuttle: Yes
Check Availability

Just across the street from the Alaska Marine Highway ferry terminal is the amazing Landing Hotel, which has been a local landmark for decades. Its comfortable beds, exercise room, and Jeremiah’s Pub downstairs combine to provide the perfect atmosphere for any stay.

Downstairs also contains the Landing Restaurant, whose burgers are legendary across the city. It is also located near the city’s Post Office and the Ketchikan Alaskan and Proud IGA and is about a ten-minute walk from the airport ferry terminal.

Gilmore Hotel, Trademark Collection by Wyndham

Address: 326 Front Street
Airport Shuttle: Yes
Check Availability

The beautiful Gilmore Hotel offers a glimpse into 1920s Ketchikan and is the perfect place for a romantic getaway to help you forget life’s problems for a few days. The downstairs restaurant offers the freshest, locally caught seafood (try the halibut!).

Centrally located downtown, the Gilmore Hotel is near several bars, Subway, and local favorite Burger Queen, whose milkshakes are considered to be some of the best in the entire state of Alaska.

The Ketch Inn

Address: 4781 North Tongass Highway
Airport Shuttle: Yes
Check Availability

Combining optional fishing tours, a restaurant, and recently updated decor, the Ketch Inn is one of Ketchikan’s finest hotels. Even locals love coming to the restaurant for the $20 breakfast buffet, which features eggs, breakfast meats, a cereal bar, and much more.

Nearby are several other excellent dining options, including AJ’s Gourmet Burgers, and Alava’s Fish-N-Chowder. It is also less than one-half mile from the only Walmart in Southeast Alaska, which also has a Subway inside.

Note: This property has recently been rebranded and used to be known as “The Edgewater Inn Restaurant and Marina”. Some websites have not updated to reflect the change, so don’t be surprised if you see this address listed under its old name!

The Inn at Creek Street

Address: 133 Stedman Street
Airport Shuttle: Yes
Check Availability

The Inn at Creek Street consists of five properties, all of which are around 100 years old. The most famous of these is the New York Hotel, which features the New York Cafe and its selection of seafood, Mediterranean cuisine, burgers, beer, wine, and much more.

As its name suggests, the properties are located in or near one of the most (in)famous places in Southeast Alaska, the city’s former red light district. There are several museums, art galleries, and other pieces of history to be found here.

My Place Hotel

Address: 3612 Tongass Avenue
Airport Shuttle: Yes
Check Availability

An excellent choice for an extended visit to Ketchikan is the My Place Hotel, which features kitchenettes in every room, food for purchase in the My Store just off the lobby, and on-site laundry services.

Easy walking distance from both the Alaska Marine Highway ferry terminal and the Airport Ferry dock, it is also across the street from the Alaskan and Proud Market, a locally owned grocery store that has served the community for decades.

Black Bear Inn

Address: 5528 North Tongass Highway
Airport Shuttle: Yes
Check Availability

About four miles north of downtown, the beautiful Black Bear Inn Bed and Breakfast aims to provide the best in relaxation and solitude for its guests. Guests will love the massive ten-person hot tub and a delicious self-serve breakfast every morning.

As this location is primarily focused on solitude and enjoying nature, there isn’t much within walking distance (Walmart is just over a mile to the south). However, the amazing views and nature viewing opportunities are some of the best on the island.

Super 8 by Wyndham

Address: 2151 Sea Level Drive
Airport Shuttle: Yes (also stops at Walmart and downtown)
Check Availability

Some of the best views of the Tongass Narrows waterway can be found out the window of a Seaside Suite at Ketchikan’s Super 8 by Wyndham. There are also meeting spaces and a banquet hall that can be rented if you’re traveling with a large group.

Just a short walk away you’ll find the Plaza Mall, Ketchikan’s largest shopping center, which contains McDonald’s, Taco Time, Safeway, and a liquor store. There is also a Godfather’s Pizza across the street.

Cape Fox Lodge

Address: 800 Venetia Way
Airport Shuttle: Yes
Check Availability

Located just up the mountain from Creek Street, Cape Fox Lodge is beloved by hunters, fishermen, and couples looking for a romantic getaway. Its 72 rooms, workout facilities, and restaurant make it an amazing place to stay for a weekend or even longer.

It is accessible by vehicle, by walking up the mountain on the Married Man’s Trail, or by the recently rebuilt tram on Creek Street. Visitors can undertake adventures with Cape Fox Tours or simply stay in, order room service, and enjoy the three free premium Showtimes channels.

Salmon Falls Resort

Address: 16707 North Tongass Highway
Airport Shuttle: Yes
Check Availability

The Salmon Falls Resort is one of the most popular fishing lodges on the island. Located about 14 miles north of the Airport Ferry Terminal, it provides packages for both first-time and experienced fishermen.

There isn’t much in the surrounding area, but just a little over a mile to the north, the beautiful Settler’s Cove State Recreation Area has a sandy beach, many hiking trails, and a viewing platform for the gorgeous waterfall.

Anchor Inn By The Sea

Address: 4672 South Tongass Highway
Airport Shuttle: No
Check Availability

For a relaxing romantic getaway on beautiful waterfront property, the Anchor Inn By The Sea is an excellent choice. There are five suites that require a minimum stay of five to seven nights, depending on which room you choose.

It is located near several great hiking trails, the Saxman Totem Park, Rotary Beach, and the zip line. There are also many wildlife viewing opportunities nearby, including bald eagles, seals, porpoises, and otters.

Corner Bed and Breakfast

Address: 3780 Evergreen Avenue
Airport Shuttle: Yes
Check Availability

If you’d like to stay in a more residential area, the Corner Bed and Breakfast is located in one of the quietest neighborhoods in town. Guests can enjoy a one-bedroom apartment with a private bathroom and a full kitchen.

Located a few blocks up the hill from the Alaskan and Proud Market, the city bus stop across the street from the grocery store will take you downtown. There are also taxi cabs available if you’d rather not bring all of your purchases on the bus.

Waterfall Resort

Address: 320 Dock Street
Airport Shuttle: Yes
Check Availability

One of the premiere fishing lodges in Ketchikan, the Waterfall Resort is located near the heart of downtown and offers several options for guests who want to enjoy the local fishing, including the lodge itself, the Egg House Suites, and the Boardwalk Cabins.

Within a few blocks, you’ll find the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center museum, Chico’s Mexican Restaurant, the Alaskan King Crab Company, the movie theatre, and the Bawden Street Brewing Company.

Ketchikan Hostel

Address: 400 Grant Street
Airport Shuttle: No
Check Availability

For an inexpensive option, the Ketchikan Hostel is housed inside the local Methodist church and provides a kitchen and a shower for only $20 per person per night. There is also a lounge for reading, meeting your fellow travelers, and playing board games.

Located very close to downtown, it is within short walking distance of several restaurants, gift shops, cruise ship docks, the famous Salmon Market, and the two movie screens at Ketchikan Coliseum Theatre.

Conclusion

No matter where you choose to stay, Ketchikan offers a distinctive blend of wild nature, intriguing history, and hearty local culture, making it a must-visit on any Alaskan itinerary. Whether you’re on a journey to uncover Alaska’s past, venture into its wilderness, or simply to enjoy a peaceful getaway, Ketchikan provides a uniquely Alaskan experience that you’ll remember for a lifetime.