Top 3 Sitka excursions

Sitka's best shore excursions
1. Alaska Raptor Center
Injured eagles and other birds of prey are restored to health here, then released back into the wild. The rehab center, which is about 10 minutes outside of town, gives you the opportunity of seeing the majestic eagles up close, eyeball to eyeball.

2. St. Michael's Russian Orthodox Church
View precious religious artworks inside Sitka's landmark building. They were heroically rescued by townsfolk when the old church burnt down.

3. Sitka National Historic Park
It sports totem poles plus other artifacts from the Tlingit culture, as well as an educational film. The park has a short, flat-surfaced forest trail.

Sitka shore excursion runners-up
Russian Bishop's House
This restored historic dwelling has a guided tour.

Russian and native Indian dance presentations
There are usually performances when a large cruise ship is in port.

Whale watching
Sitka is a first-class whale watching destination. You can view whales (in season) aboard one of the local tour boats - or at Whale Park a short drive from town.