This trip was hosted. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.
As a wheelchair user, I wanted to see Alaska (my 50th state), but I felt concerned about its accessibility. I decided the best way to go was on a cruise. I chose Princess as it is known for providing those with mobility issues plenty of options.
Our stop in Ketchikan proved challenging. I still found a way to enjoy the day on my mobility scooter. Whether you arrive via ship or plane—the only options as Ketchikan is an island—the 8,000 residents know the average 18,000 cruisers a day during the season support the island. They do their best to be welcome.
The Best Things to Do
See the Stilted Homes
Ketchikan, Alaska, looks quite different from its sister island. The homes on Creek Street are built on trestles and have stairs because they reside overwater and rocky hills. A 274-foot-long tunnel passes over water in the middle of town.
The homes in Ketchikan are colorful and picturesque. Salmon and harbor seals swim in the creek below. I didn’t want to put my camera down as I rode my mobility scooter along the bumpy walkway.
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Explore Totem Bight State Historical Park
Ketchikan has more dedications to the Indigenous people in Alaska than I saw in any other city. Alaska has 229 recognized tribes. The Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian are most represented throughout the city (my guide was Tlingit).
Totem Bight State Historical Park houses a wide selection of Totem Poles done by Southeast Alaskans and the park guides explain the meanings behind them. The park grounds are gravel and not that easy to get around. Even though buildings are all accessible, my able-bodied friend Brittany saw these while I was downtown.
SheBuysTravel Tip: The more salmon around, the better the chance you will see bears going after them.
Go to Historic Bars
In its heyday, Ketchikan was known as the party town. The Gold Rush made this city the center of Alaska’s fun times. Bars beckoned those looking for drinks and food. At the time, prostitutes lined these bars as prostitution was legal. Although that last part changed, many of the bars still stand today.
A few of the more popular places to enjoy the guide pointed out on my accessible tour. Creek Street Cabaret leads the Red-Light District. We didn’t have the time, but you can still go there for cocktails, beer and music. This area also has the city’s only heated sidewalk in preparation for Alaska winters.
Planning a Wheelchair Accessible Day
Wheelchair Excursions
The best way to arrange a wheelchair-friendly excursion is with your cruise ship. They will guarantee the experience and that you get back to the boat before it leaves. It is also important to let them know the details of your mobility equipment.
Consider Splitting your Group
Although I have disabilities and cannot walk more than a few steps, my friend Brittany is healthy and loves more adventure. We agreed at the beginning of the cruise we would separate for most tours. I did the Ketchikan & Creek Street Walking Tour, with my scooter. Brittany took a Ketchikan Safari tour with a local photographer.
Utilize the Tourism Board
My first step when planning a wheelchair accessible day anywhere is contacting that city’s tourism board. They know a lot about what is accessible in their town. They can also recommend local guides if you want to do a private or small group tour.
SheBuysTravel Tip: To get the most out of your day in Ketchikan on an Alaska cruise, order a room service breakfast the night before. You can have it delivered early and be one of the first off the ship.
What makes Ketchikan wheelchair accessible
Cement Walkways
Most of the city walkways are cement so you can go through the streets on a scooter or in a wheelchair.
Excursions
My Princess Cruise offered wheelchair accessible excursions, such as the one I took through town. If you don’t have one booked, tour guides greet the ships. To find a dependable one, ask the town or cruise representatives.
Safety
I didn’t have any issues crossing the street or if I was away from my tour guide. I felt very safe as a wheelchair user in Ketchikan.
SheBuysTravel Tip: I did have trouble finding curb cuts in some spots of Ketchikan. It took some effort, but there was always a way to get through to a street. Locals helped me find them when I couldn’t.
Where to shop and eat
The historic shopping district, just a few blocks from the port, offers locally made items and necessities for the locals. Tongass Trading Company opened in Ketchikan in 1898 and transitioned from a trading post to a place for Alaskan souvenirs, clothing and even salmon. They now also have four locations in the city.
I enjoyed checking out some of the art stores in the city such as Arctic Spirit Gallery, Crazy Wolf Studio and Scanlon Gallery.
Brittany and I met up at the most popular spot to eat in town, Jellyfish Donuts. I was unable to get inside since it required a step. Brittany waited on the lengthy line and came out with two of their most popular donuts: Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup and Salmon, which is a donut with a salmon cream cheese spread.
SheBuysTravel Tip: I found prices in Ketchikan stores to be very reasonable for shopping, especially at the end of the cruise season.
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