Ketchikan’s drinking tours offer an authentic slice of Alaskan culture, where local bars tell stories of fishing fleets and frontier spirit. My top pick, the Ketchikan Pub Crawl, efficiently connects you with four historic bars in just under three hours – perfect for cruise ship passengers. The Fish Tales & Ales tour wonderfully combines maritime history with local brews, while the intimate Cruisin and Boozin tour (maximum eight people) provides the most personal experience. These well-organized excursions include enthusiastic local guides who know their stuff and keep things moving. Let’s explore these memorable tours in detail.
Good To Know
- The Ketchikan Pub Crawl offers a guided tour of the city’s bar scene, with high ratings, inclusions, and accommodations for groups.
- The Fish Tales & Ales Tour provides a 90-minute guided walking experience focusing on Ketchikan’s fishing heritage and local drinking culture.
- The Cruisin and Boozin Tour is a 90-minute small-group tour of historic bars, with a personalized experience and high traveler recommendations.
- The tours cater to diverse accessibility needs, with wheelchair and scooter-friendly options, as well as accommodations for service animals.
- The tours provide immersive experiences and insights into Ketchikan’s vibrant nightlife, history, and local culture from knowledgeable guides.
Ketchikan Pub Crawl
The Ketchikan Pub Crawl offers a guided tour of the city’s vibrant bar scene. With a 4.9-star rating from 115 reviews and a 98% recommendation rate, this excursion is a must-do for anyone looking to experience Ketchikan’s local drinking culture.
Priced at $79 per person, the tour accommodates groups of up to 15 travelers aged 21 and older. Guests will meet at the iconic THE ROCK statue outside the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau and embark on a journey to explore the town’s most popular watering holes.
Along the way, knowledgeable guides share captivating stories about Ketchikan’s history and culture, enhancing the overall experience. Included in the tour are alcoholic beverages, coffee, tea, soda, and snacks, ensuring participants can fully indulge in the local flavors.
While the tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or serious medical conditions, it does welcome service animals and is located near public transportation.
With its combination of local knowledge, small group sizes, and a focus on fun, the Ketchikan Pub Crawl provides an unforgettable way to discover the city’s vibrant nightlife.
Read our full review: Ketchikan Pub Crawl Review
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Fish Tales & Ales – 90 Minute Historical Walking Tour of Fishing Fleet and Bars
Stepping away from the lively Ketchikan Pub Crawl, the Fish Tales & Ales walking tour offers a captivating exploration of the city’s rich fishing heritage and vibrant bar scene.
This 90-minute guided experience takes visitors on a journey through Ketchikan’s waterfront, where they can expect to learn about the local fishing practices and meet the fishermen themselves.
The tour starts near the Giant Rain Gauge at the Visitor Info Center and ends at the Potlatch Bar, just a half-mile away in the Thomas Basin area.
Along the way, participants can enjoy alcoholic beverages and gratuities are included. The tour is wheelchair accessible, near public transportation, and scooter-friendly, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers.
With an impressive 5.0 rating based on 7 reviews, the Fish Tales & Ales tour is a must-try for anyone seeking a unique and immersive experience in Ketchikan’s vibrant fishing and bar culture.
The guides provide local insights and historical context, leaving participants with a deeper appreciation for the city’s rich maritime heritage.
Read our full review: Fish Tales & Ales – 90 Minute Historical Walking Tour of Fishing Fleet and Bars Review
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Cruisin and Boozin – 90 Minute Historical Walking Tour of Sites and Bars
Oftentimes, the Cruisin and Boozin walking tour provides visitors with an engaging exploration of Ketchikan’s vibrant history and lively bar scene. This 90-minute small-group tour takes travelers to three historic bars, where they’ll enjoy included adult beverages while learning about the town’s notable characters and colorful past from knowledgeable guides.
The tour starts at the top of the cruise ship berth 3, near the restrooms, and ends at the Potlatch Bar, just half a mile away. Along the way, you will visit the Arctic Bar, Sourdough Bar, and Potlatch Bar, each offering a glimpse into Ketchikan’s storied past.
With a maximum group size of 12, the experience fosters personalized interactions and engagement, making it a highlight for many visitors. Boasting a perfect 100% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this tour is both accessible and flexible, with free cancellation and rescheduling available up to 24 hours in advance.
For those seeking an immersive and enjoyable way to discover Ketchikan’s history, the Cruisin and Boozin tour is a top-rated option.
Read our full review: Cruisin and Boozin – 90 Minute Historical Walking Tour of Sites and Bars Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Children Allowed on the Drinking Tours?
Most drinking tours do not allow children, as the focus is on adult beverages and activities. However, some tour providers may offer family-friendly options or accommodate children if they’re accompanied by a responsible adult. It’s best to check the tour’s policies beforehand.
Do the Tours Cater to Dietary Restrictions?
The tours generally accommodate dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options. Customers should inquire about specific accommodations when booking the tour to ensure their needs are met.
Can I Bring My Own Alcohol on the Tours?
Most drinking tours do not allow guests to bring their own alcohol. Tour operators typically provide alcoholic beverages as part of the experience and don’t permit outside alcohol for liability reasons. It’s best to check with the specific tour company beforehand.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tours?
The dress code for these tours is typically casual and comfortable. Participants should wear weather-appropriate clothing, such as layers and comfortable walking shoes, as the tours may involve some walking. There’s no need for formal attire.
Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available?
Many tour companies offer discounts and packages for their drinking tours. These can include bundled admissions, group rates, or even combo deals with other local attractions. It’s worth checking with each operator to see what special offers they have available.
The Sum Up
Ketchikan offers a variety of drinking tours for visitors. The Ketchikan Pub Crawl, Fish Tales & Ales, and Cruisin and Boozin tours provide historical insights and visits to local bars. These tours are great options for those looking to explore Ketchikan’s drinking scene and learn about the city’s rich history.