Sitka National Historical Park
Totem poles along a forest trail.
Sitka
The old capital of Russian America, with onion domes, Tlingit totems and bears in a rescue center.
Russia ruled Alaska from here until 1867. St. Michael's Cathedral still has its onion dome. Sitka National Historical Park marks the 1804 Battle of Sitka, with a towering collection of totem poles. Sitka Sound's sea otters and whales are a bonus.
- Best Time
- May–September
- Time Needed
- 2–3 days
- Cost Level
- $$$$
- Open
- Check before you go; hours vary by season
- Getting There
- Flights from Juneau or Seattle; also on the Alaska Marine Highway.
What to See
1 of 3 are freeSt. Michael's Cathedral
Russian Orthodox, with original icons.
Fortress of the Bear
A rescue center for orphaned cubs.
Know Before You Go
- It rains a lot. Reach it by air or by Alaska ferry.
Where to Stay
Stay in town.
Where to Eat
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Last checked 2026-11-02. Part of the Alaska list.