June in Ketchikan: Where Summer Comes to Life for Locals

June marks a turning point in Alaska summers. The days grow longer, the harbor comes alive with fishing boats, floatplanes, and cruise ships. The town begins to wake from its quiet winter rhythm. It’s a great time to visit Alaska, not just for the beauty it has to offer, but to experience Ketchikan, the way the locals do. In this edition of our Live Like a Local series, brought to you by Kawanti Adventures, we’ll show you how to skip the tourist crowds and get to know the town from the inside out.

Stay Local: Local lodging in Ketchikan, Alaska

The best way to get the local experience is to live like a local, and that starts with where you stay. That might mean a waterfront Airbnb or hotel located in the heart of Ketchikan, where the only morning traffic is the sound of floatplanes taking off. This month we’re featuring The Landing Hotel. The Landing Hotel blends comfort with local roots, offering a stay that reflects the town’s pace and history without feeling disconnected from it.

The Landing Hotel in Ketchikan has been a local landmark for decades, first opening its doors in 1977 and later undergoing significant renovations to modernize its facilities. The landing hotel has a total of 107 guest rooms and 27 suites, it’s known as one of the area’s premier independent, full-service hotels. As a locally owned, award-winning establishment, it embodies authentic Ketchikan hospitality with its friendly staff, cozy amenities, and strong community ties.

Eat Like a Local: Hidden Food Gems

A local favorite in Ketchikan is The New York Café. Located at 211 Stedman Street in historic downtown, the New York Café operates inside a vintage building (part of the Stedman–Thomas Historic District, originally built in 1924). Its rustic-chic interior, bar seating, and downtown waterfront view create a cozy, lived-in atmosphere. The New York Cafe is a favorite among locals for its relaxed vibe, locally sourced ingredients and creative seasonal specials that come out every year. Stop by this local hidden gem while you’re in Ketchikan for some fresh halibut fish & chips, seafood chowder, fish burgers, and more variations of seafood and non-seafood dishes. With just a handful of tables and views overlooking Thomas Basin, it’s the perfect place to slow down, sip a coffee (or local beer), and eat like you’ve lived here for years.

Adventure Like A Local: See Alaska The Way We Do

We believe the best way to experience Alaska is through the eyes of those who call it home. Kawanti Adventures is a locally owned and operated tour company, embedding itself in the fabric of the Ketchikan community. If you’re trying to live like a local while you’re in Ketchikan, Kawanti’s Rainforest Canopy Zipline Tour is one of the best ways to do it. This tour has been running for over 20 years, and it shows in all the best ways. It’s the kind of experience that feels more like hanging out with locals than going on a tour. If you’re looking for a fun way to get outside and do something a little different the Rainforest Canopy Zipline is a local favorite for a reason. It’s fast, fun, and gives you a whole new perspective on the forest—literally. You’re not just zipping through the trees; you’re getting a real taste of how people here spend their time outdoors. No big crowds, no hustle and bustle—just fresh air, good people, and a killer view.

Crafted in Ketchikan: Ciders, Cocktails, and Community

If you want to live like a local in Ketchikan, start your evening at Alaska Legends Cider & Wine, a cozy waterfront lounge that’s become a staple in the local scene. Housed in the oldest concrete building in Ketchikan, along the busy cruise ship dock, this spot was created by lifelong Alaskans with a passion for crafting something truly local—from the ingredients to the experience. Everything on the menu is made right here in Ketchikan, from the handcrafted ciders and small-batch wines to the creative cocktails mixed with spirits from their sister company, Uncharted Alaska Distillery. It’s a one-stop celebration of Ketchikan’s flavor, history, and community. Sip on a flight of ciders featuring blends like blueberry apple, guava pear, or try the bold local favorite: “Sasquatch Piss.” The ambiance of this hidden gem complete with local art and friendly bartenders, makes it a go-to for visitors looking to unwind without the tourist bustle. Swing by mid-week for a tasting of ciders or drop in on a Friday evening to soak up the downtown buzz and maybe catch live music. For a true taste of Ketchikan—crafted, poured, and served by the people who live here—this is the place to be.