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At first I am alarmed.

We’re meandering around Sitka, killing time before we can check-in to our hotel.

“Sarah. Shannon.” The calls echo. We look around, but there’s no one in sight. Once again we hear our names,

“Sarah. Shannon. Up here.” Spinning around we see two familiar faces waving out of windows at The Sitka Hotel. It’s Paul and Michael, fellow passengers from our Uncruise.

Disembarkation was only a few hours ago, and although it isn’t even noon yet, Michael and Paul let us know that our room should be available. I’m loving this place already.

All I knew about Sitka before we docked was

1. It’s where our cruise ended
2. It has a National Park, so we can add a stamp to our Parks Passport

When our trip was over, Sitka ended up being our favorite Alaska town/city.

Staying

The Sitka Hotel

Location and laundry were our main reasons for booking a night at The Sitka Hotel.

After a week of bushwhacking through water and fresh Alaskan dirt, our clothes were in need of a wash.

The Sitka Hotel had a nice laundry room for guests to use, and being able to check in early, offered the opportunity to have all of our laundry done by 3 pm.

Our room was clean and the bed was comfy.

The hotel held our luggage the next day as our flight didn’t leave until the evening, and they transported us to the airport. It was everything we needed while staying in Sitka.

Eats

Agave

One of the great parts about our Uncruise, was all of the tasty fish we ate for dinner. However, after a week of consuming sea creatures, we were a little fished out. We craved something cozy and comforting.

Yummy Mexican food at Agave Restaurant/Arcade, was exactly what we desired.

Backdoor Cafe

For a damn fine cup of coffee and a slice of pie worthy of Agent Dale Cooper, you must stop by the Backdoor Cafe.

The Sitka Hotel 

Even if you’re not staying at The Sitka Hotel, be sure to stop by their casual, relaxed bar.

We had a great time hanging out, having one last hurrah with the friends we made on our Uncruise ship.

Ashmo’s

Okay, we were only momentarily fished out. As a lover of food trucks, when I saw Ashmo’s, I knew I had to give it a try.

I had the Black Cod Tips since it was something I’d never had before. Shannon had the fish tacos.

Things To Do

Sitka National Historical Park

Excited that the cruise’s final destination included a National Park, we showed up bright and early to stroll through the green forest and gaze up at historic totems.

With calm trickling waters, wildlife, and soaring trees, the Park was a serine, gorgeous, place to spend the day.

The Bishop’s House

I didn’t have high expectations for The Russian Bishop’s House. We mainly went for the stamp, but Park Ranger Jessica was so charming, we agreed to stay for the full tour. I’m so glad we did.

The house is beautifully restored.

Jessica imparted a ton of information about Alaska’s history and Russian culture. If you’re in Sitka it’s a must do.

Castle Hill

You’ll have to walk up a decent number of steps to get to the top of Castle Hill, but if you’re up for it, the view is nice.

Alaska is very proud of its history, so you’ll find information plaques everywhere, including at the top of Castle Hill.

Sitka Farmers’ Market

If you are in Sitka on a Saturday, be sure to check out the Farmers’ Market for locally made treats.

Walking Around Town

Sitka is a charming, walkable, town. Even if you didn’t engage in any other activities, you could while away a pleasant amount of time simply walking around town.

On one of the days, while we were walking around town, we heard a chorus of singing voices drifting through the air.  To be honest, it was a little creepy, like the beginning of some sort of supernatural television series. Eventually we figured out that the singing was coming from the Pioneers’ Home.

There are plenty of cute shops in Sitka.

There is even a shop for all of your fur bikini needs.

The scenery in Sitka is picture perfect.

Sitka started out as merely a layover before our next adventure, but it ended up charming our hearts. I could have spent a few more days taking leisurely strolls, sipping coffee in cafes, and soaking in the scenery. Sitka was a lovely surprise.

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