Sitka

About

Sitka sits on the western edge of Baranof Island, where rainforest meets the Pacific Ocean. This small Alaskan city packs a remarkable amount of history, wildlife, and culture into a compact, walkable setting that rewards visitors who take their time.

The Alaska Raptor Center is one of Sitka's most beloved attractions. This rehabilitation facility cares for injured bald eagles, hawks, falcons, and owls, giving visitors the chance to see these magnificent birds up close. Walking through the center's grounds, you'll learn about raptor biology and conservation while observing birds in various stages of recovery. Some permanent residents - birds that can't be released back into the wild - serve as ambassadors, offering unforgettable close encounters. Children age 5 and under get in free, making it a great family stop.

The Russian Bishop's House, managed by the National Park Service as part of Sitka National Historical Park, stands as one of the few surviving examples of Russian colonial architecture in North America. Built in 1842, this beautifully restored log structure tells the story of Sitka's years as the capital of Russian America. Inside, you'll find original furnishings, religious artifacts, and exhibits that bring this often-overlooked chapter of American history to life.

Sitka National Historical Park itself is worth a full visit. The park's visitor center houses the Southeast Alaska Indian Cultural Center, where Tlingit artists practice traditional crafts including woodcarving, silverwork, and weaving. Outside, a forested trail winds past a collection of totem poles set among towering Sitka spruce trees - one of the most atmospheric walks in all of Alaska.

The town also features St. Michael's Cathedral, a reconstructed Russian Orthodox church with original icons dating to the 1800s, and the Sheldon Jackson Museum, home to an outstanding collection of Alaska Native artifacts.

Sitka is accessible by air and by the Alaska Marine Highway ferry system. The town's compact layout means many attractions are within a short distance of each other. Cruise ships also make regular stops here during the summer season, and wheelchair-accessible shore excursion tours are available specifically for visitors who need them.

Accessibility

Sitka offers solid accessibility at several of its key attractions. The Alaska Raptor Center features wheelchair-friendly paths and facilities throughout the grounds, allowing visitors with mobility needs to experience the raptor enclosures and educational exhibits. The center has made accessibility a stated commitment, so staff are generally prepared to assist visitors as needed.

The Sitka National Historical Park visitor center is wheelchair-accessible, providing entry to the Southeast Alaska Indian Cultural Center, museum exhibits, and the totem pole collection inside the building. The park's outdoor totem trail follows a paved path along the coastline, though some sections may present challenges depending on weather conditions and mobility equipment - contact the park directly for current trail surface conditions.

For visitors arriving by cruise ship, specialized wheelchair-accessible tour options exist. The Historic Sitka Highlights tour provides lift-equipped vehicles and is specifically designed for wheelchair users and one companion. Due to the specialized vehicles involved, priority boarding goes to guests using wheelchairs.

The Russian Bishop's House is a historic two-story log building, and older structures like this can present access challenges. Contact the National Park Service in advance to ask about current accommodations for the interior spaces.

Sitka's downtown area is relatively flat and compact, which helps with general mobility. However, like many Alaskan coastal towns, you'll encounter some uneven sidewalks and terrain changes.

For the most current information on accessible parking, restroom facilities, and any seasonal changes to accessibility features, contact the Alaska Raptor Center and Sitka National Historical Park visitor center before your trip. Staff at both locations can provide specific guidance to help you plan a comfortable visit.

More accessible places in Alaska

• Alaska SeaLife Center (Seward)
• Alaska Aviation Museum (Anchorage)
• Alaska Botanical Garden (Anchorage)
• Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center (Fairbanks)
• University of Alaska Museum of the North (Fairbanks)
• Gates of the Arctic National Park (Gates of the Arctic NP)