SITKA

Tours and Activities

Sheldon Jackson Museum
A museum worthy of note, the Sheldon Jackson Museum features one of the best collections of Alaska Native artifacts in the world. The Sheldon Jackson appeals to those more interested in the lives of Alaskan people than in its mythology. A well-documented history of the state gives patrons an accurate perspective on Native culture and life in the North through the ages.

Castle Hill
On your way through town, take Harbor Drive and enjoy the short walk up Castle Hill. The view of Sitka Sound from the top is breathtaking. At one time the Russian governor’s home and office were located here, and the formal ceremony that marked Alaska’s transfer from Russia to America took place on the hilltop.

Sitka National Historic Park (Totem Park)
This rain forest park stretches along the shore, encompassing the site of the infamous Battle of Sitka, in which the Tlingit defended their land for the last time against the Russian invaders. Enjoy a walk down the peaceful pathways, lined with massive totem poles.

Harrigan Centennial Hall
egin your day at the Harrigan Centennial Hall. You’ll find plenty of information about the area, courtesy of the Sitka Convention and Visitors Bureau. The Harrigan Centennial Hall features performances by the famed New Archangel Dancers, an all-woman troupe, which performs traditional Russian, Ukrainian and Moldovian folk dances.

St. Michael’s Cathedral
St. Michael’s Cathedral stands as testimony to the Russian occupation. Its green copper, onion-shaped domes dominate the town’s architecture. The original 1840s church was destroyed by fire in 1966; however, an exact replica was built with support from donors throughout the U.S. Don’t miss the fine collection of icons and other religious artifacts on display, many of which were rescued from the blaze by the townspeople.

Tlingit Native Dance Performance
Thirty minutes is well spent viewing a performance of Tlingit native dancers. The dances take place in a replica of a traditional Tlingit Clan House and are accompanied by songs handed down for generations. Drums and cedar fire fill the air. Interpreted by a narrator, the performance is both educational and entertaining.

Shopping

Shopping Sitka
The delightful attractions of Sitka’s downtown shopping district are just a few minutes walk from the docks. You’ll find a wide selection of Native and contemporary American art, plus fine gold and gemstone jewelry, T-shirts, books, and souvenirs of every description. Thanks to Sitka’s Russian heritage, this is the place to shop for Russian-style gifts. The shops’ friendly staffs are ready to answer any of your questions.

Bear Country Gifts Colliver Shoes
Two unique stores under the same roof! At Bear Country Gifts, you'll find a huge selection of gifts and collectibles for all ages, including locally-made products and delicious Alaska seafood. At the same location, Colliver Shoes offers you Southeast Alaska’s largest selection of name brand shoes, featuring SAS, Munro, Reiker, Rockport, Minnetonka and more. Come visit us across from Crescent Harbor. 401 Lincoln Street. (907)747-8090. (800)764-8090.

Goldsmith Gallery
The finest selection of handcrafted jewelry in Alaska. We offer custom pieces made on the premises using the finest gemstones available and our exclusive designs of Glacier Ice Jewelry. We carry a large selection of Natural Gold Nuggets and elegant Gold~in~Quartz jewelry from the Natural Gold Company—see the difference. Our Russian Faberge-style eggs are available in 18-karat gold and gold overlay. And we represent more than 20 award-winning glass blowers. 407 Lincoln St., in Bayview Trading Company. (800) 360-5744. (907) 747-5744, or fax (907) 747-0066. goldsmith@ptialaska.net.

Old Harbor Books
Celebrating our 27th anniversary in Sitka, we are a full-service bookstore. We have a large selection of books on Alaska, including children’s books. You will also find a wide variety of fiction and nonfiction titles, bestsellers, topographic maps, nautical charts, greeting cards, and cappuccino and pastries at the Back Door. We are located downtown next to the Pioneer Home. 201 Lincoln St. (907) 747-8808.

Sitka Jewelers
The store that meets the needs of all shoppers looking for fine gifts. Sitka Jewelers offers a variety of prices and styles of jewelry, pottery and hand-made knives. Come in and visit our vault/showroom loaded with Natural Gold Nuggets and superior quality Gold~in~Quartz jewelry from the Natural Gold Company—see the difference. You are sure to find your Alaska treasure at Sitka Jewelers. 102 Lincoln St. (907) 747-2702, or fax (907) 747-2703. sjeweler@ptialaska.net.