
Stedman Street
Explore the historic Creek Street boardwalk in Ketchikan, Alaska, a former red-light district now filled with shops and salmon-filled waters.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Peak salmon run season

Stedman Street
Best Time
Peak salmon run season
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the historic Creek Street boardwalk in Ketchikan, Alaska, a former red-light district now filled with shops and salmon-filled waters.
"Creek Street is a must-see in Ketchikan, offering a unique blend of history, charm, and natural beauty."

🚶♀️ Easy Walk from Port
Creek Street is a short, 10-minute walk from the Ketchikan cruise port. Easy to access and explore on foot!
☔ Be Prepared for Rain
Ketchikan is known for its rainfall. Pack waterproof gear to enjoy Creek Street comfortably, even in wet weather.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Creek Street Boardwalk
Ketchikan, Alaska
Walk along this charming, historic boardwalk built on stilts over Ketchikan Creek. Explore unique shops and soak in the atmosphere.

Salmon Viewing on Creek Street
Ketchikan, Alaska
Witness spawning salmon swimming upstream in Ketchikan Creek, especially vibrant during July and August. A truly wild Alaskan spectacle.

Dolly's House Museum
Creek Street, Ketchikan, Alaska
Step back in time at Dolly's House, a former brothel offering a glimpse into Creek Street's colorful past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Stedman Street
Ketchikan's Creek Street Focus
Best Times
Insider Tips
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🚶♀️ Easy Walk from Port
Creek Street is a short, 10-minute walk from the Ketchikan cruise port. Easy to access and explore on foot!
☔ Be Prepared for Rain
Ketchikan is known for its rainfall. Pack waterproof gear to enjoy Creek Street comfortably, even in wet weather.
🍣 Try Local Flavors
Sample local treats like salmon donuts or bowls at Alaskan Fish House. Don't miss the popcorn at Ketchikan Candies!
🚌 Bus to Town (if needed)
If your ship docks at Ward Cove, consider booking Sourdough Cabs for a private tour to avoid long bus lines.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Easy Walk from Port
Creek Street is a short, 10-minute walk from the Ketchikan cruise port. Easy to access and explore on foot!
☔ Be Prepared for Rain
Ketchikan is known for its rainfall. Pack waterproof gear to enjoy Creek Street comfortably, even in wet weather.
🍣 Try Local Flavors
Sample local treats like salmon donuts or bowls at Alaskan Fish House. Don't miss the popcorn at Ketchikan Candies!
🚌 Bus to Town (if needed)
If your ship docks at Ward Cove, consider booking Sourdough Cabs for a private tour to avoid long bus lines.
💰 Free to Visit
Strolling along Creek Street and watching the salmon is completely free! Enjoy the natural beauty without spending a dime.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Stedman Street, particularly Creek Street in Ketchikan, is widely praised for its unique historic charm and picturesque setting. Visitors love the colorful boardwalk, the opportunity to see salmon, and the proximity to cruise ports. Some find the former red-light district history intriguing, while others appreciate the transformation into a quaint shopping area. A few reviews mention disappointment with specific tour experiences or the impact of heavy rainfall.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
If you're in Ketchikan, Alaska, Stedman Street is synonymous with Creek Street. It's a pleasant 10-minute walk from the cruise ship docks. Follow signs from downtown. If your ship docks at Ward Cove, you might need a bus or taxi into town.
Yes, Creek Street in Ketchikan is very accessible from cruise ships, being just a short walk away. Some cruise lines may dock further out at Ward Cove, requiring a shuttle bus into the main town area.
Walking is the best way to explore Creek Street. The boardwalk is pedestrian-friendly, allowing you to browse shops and enjoy the views at your own pace.
In Ketchikan, taxis and tour operators are available. For a more personalized experience and to avoid potential bus queues from Ward Cove, consider booking a private tour with companies like Sourdough Cabs.
There are multiple streets named Stedman Street across various cities. Always confirm the city and state of your intended destination to ensure you're going to the correct location.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to visit Creek Street itself. It's a public boardwalk and historic district. Entry to specific shops or museums, like Dolly's House, may have admission fees.
Shop hours on Creek Street can vary, but most are open during daylight hours, especially when cruise ships are in port. It's best to check individual shop hours if you have specific places in mind.
The salmon viewing along Ketchikan Creek is a natural phenomenon and is free to observe. You can walk along the creek path and boardwalk to see the fish.
Yes, various tours are available in Ketchikan that include Creek Street. Some focus on history, others on local culture or wildlife. You can also book private tours for a customized experience.
The salmon run typically occurs from July through August, making these months the prime time to witness the spawning salmon in Ketchikan Creek.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire Creek Street boardwalk offers picturesque views of the colorful houses on stilts. Look for unique angles of the creek and the historic architecture. The totem poles at Whale Park nearby are also great photo opportunities.
Absolutely! The salmon run is a fantastic photographic opportunity. Be patient and try to capture the fish in action as they swim upstream.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. If you want to capture the salmon in detail, a telephoto lens can be helpful. Consider a wide-angle lens for the overall boardwalk scenery.
Generally, photography is allowed and encouraged on Creek Street. However, always be respectful of private property and any posted signs.
Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the colors of the buildings. Late afternoon can also offer nice lighting, but be mindful of cruise ship departure times if you want to avoid crowds.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While Creek Street itself has some eateries, nearby options include Alaskan Fish House for seafood bowls and Alaska Crepe Co. for sweet and savory crepes. Ketchikan Candies is also a popular stop.
Locals and visitors rave about the salmon dishes, including salmon donuts and salmon bowls. Don't miss trying local popcorn and crepes.
You'll find a variety of options, including fresh seafood, American fare, Mexican food, and Chinese cuisine.
Grabbing a crepe or some popcorn can be a more budget-friendly option. Exploring local delis or cafes away from the immediate boardwalk might also offer more affordable choices.
Options may be limited, but some restaurants might offer vegetarian dishes. It's best to inquire directly with the establishment about their menu.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting Ketchikan Candies for a sweet treat, or look for interactive elements in the shops. While Dolly's House offers a historical perspective, it might be more suited for older children who can appreciate the context of its past. The nearby totem poles at Whale Park are also a great visual for kids.
🚶 Budget Travelers
For dining, opt for grab-and-go items like crepes or popcorn rather than sit-down restaurants. If you're arriving via cruise ship, walking directly into town from the dock (if applicable) saves on transportation costs.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't forget to explore the surrounding areas for more photo ops, such as the totem poles at Whale Park. Early morning or late afternoon light often yields the most dramatic and colorful shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Creek Street
Despite its notorious history, Creek Street has transformed into a charming historic district. Today, the colorful buildings house art galleries, souvenir shops, restaurants, and residences. Visitors can still feel the echoes of its past while enjoying the picturesque scenery and the natural beauty of the creek. The Dolly's House Museum offers a direct look into the life of a Creek Street madam.
Walking along Creek Street provides a unique glimpse into Ketchikan's heritage. The historic boardwalk is a testament to the town's resilience and evolution, offering a blend of history, culture, and natural wonder that draws visitors from around the globe.
Experiencing the Salmon Run
Visitors can observe this natural phenomenon from the boardwalk itself or along the designated Ketchikan Salmon Walk, a 1.5-mile loop that follows the creek's path. Interpretive signs and QR codes along the trail provide valuable information about the salmon's life cycle, the local ecosystem, and stewardship efforts.
This is a truly unique Alaskan experience that offers a profound connection to nature. The sight and sound of the salmon battling the current is unforgettable, making it a highlight for many visitors to Ketchikan.
Navigating Ketchikan's Cruise Port
To bypass potential delays, some travelers opt for private transportation. Companies like Sourdough Cabs offer pre-booked tours where a driver will take you around town according to your itinerary, waiting at each stop. This can be a more efficient way to see the sights if you have limited time.
Alternatively, if your ship docks directly in town, Creek Street is an easy and pleasant walk. Regardless of your arrival point, planning your transportation in advance can significantly enhance your experience in Ketchikan.



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