Inexpensive Excursions on Own in Alaska

[GuardCruisers]

3 of us traveling to Alaska.  Ports are Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway and Victoria.  One traveler has to use a mobility scooter.  Looking for some excursions on our own to areas close-in to the ports.  Obviously we can do walk-arounds in Ketchikan and Skagway, and the Red Dog Saloon in Juneau.  What are some other things folks have done that didn't require expensive excursions through the cruise line?  Thanks for any advice.  

[AKStafford]

You can book directly with the White Pass & Yukon Railroad in Skagway: https://wpyr.com/

[Eaglecw]

I looked at the itinerary for the Star’s shilling on May 19^th. Here are some low cost things you can do at the ports you’re going to. It looks like you’re going to be docked at berth #4 in Ketchikan. https://www.experienceketchikan.com/support-files/citymap.pdf This is the furthest berth from the tourist activities. Ketchikan is the place to buy those must have Alaska souvenirs. The Tongass Trading post is the best place for the souvenirs. Go up to the Tongass National Forest Discovery center, it’s free with a National Parks senior pass. Then go over to Creek Street and check out the shops there.

Juneau you’re going to be docked at the Alaska Steam ship dock. That’s the closest dock to town. It’s a short walk to the Red Dog from there. The Alaska State museum is pretty interesting and you can go into the state capitol building. I always stop at the Hanger of the Wharf and watch the float planes while we share pitcher.

Skagway you’re going to be docked at Railroad pier aft, it’s a long pier. It’s probably a mile into town from that point. I’d head for the National parks building and sign up for their free walking tours. https://www.nps.gov/klgo/index.htm There is a ton of information there. There is also the Skagway history museum not far from the downtown area.

You’ve got to remember that the sidewalks in these towns are pretty narrow and with 4 cruise ship in port they get pretty crowded. I’ve found that it’s easier sometimes to walk in the street.

The only excursion we have planned for this year is to rent a car in Skagway and drive up into the Yukon, we did it a few years ago and it was all good.

Randy

[dustyroad]

In Juneau go on the boardwalk from the ship behind the downtown district where the Red Dog Saloon is and you will see tall statues of the miners there.  Also there is a bronze statue of the famous dog Pasty Ann from the olden days.  She has a very interesting history on a plaque there.  In Ketchikan you can go to Creek Street and see the shops and things there.  Skagway has some interesting buildings and items to see as well.  There are a lot of free things to do in all of your ports with a lot of photo shots to take as well.  

[karatemom2]

Rent a car and get out and explore. We have done this many times and not only is it cost effective you can get a glimpse of the real Alaska by getting outside of the tourist areas. You control your time, can see and do what you want and aren’t limited in options. Some of our best days in Alaska have involved renting a car, picking up a picnic and heading out to explore. Most rental car companies will have vans that could accommodate the scooter. We have often rented a van or SUV for our big family. 

Edited May 23, 2019 by karatemom2