In 2026, the Visit Sitka program transitioned operations from the Greater Sitka Chamber of Commerce to Element Agency under a contract with the City & Borough of Sitka.
As part of this transition, some Visit Sitka operations have shifted. Please read our FAQ below, and reach out to us at info@visitsitka.org with any questions.
What does Visit Sitka do?
Visit Sitka is the official Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) for the City and Borough of Sitka, focused on promoting Sitka to independent travelers and supporting regenerative visitor experiences for the community. Visit Sitka shares the stories, places, and experiences that make Sitka unique, helping visitors discover what makes this community special while supporting local businesses and year-round travel opportunities.
Who manages Visit Sitka now?
The Visit Sitka program is managed by Element Agency under contract with the City and Borough of Sitka. Element has supported Visit Sitka marketing for several years and now manages the program directly for the City. The program continues to operate under the community’s Strategic Marketing Plan with a focus on attracting independent travelers and supporting a strong visitor experience.
Is Visit Sitka still part of the Greater Sitka Chamber of Commerce?
No. The Sitka Chamber of Commerce managed the Visit Sitka program under contract with the City and Borough of Sitka from 2016–2025. Beginning in 2026, the program transitioned to Element Agency. The Chamber continues its important role supporting local businesses and advocacy in the community, while Visit Sitka remains focused on destination marketing and visitor outreach. Visit sitkachamber.com for more information on the Sitka Chamber.
Who is Element Agency?
Element Agency is an Alaska-based strategic communications and design firm headquartered in Anchorage, but with staff based all over Alaska. Element has been the marketing partner behind Visit Sitka for several years, helping develop the destination’s brand, visitor publications, and marketing campaigns. The Element team also helped develop the Visit Sitka 2025–2027 Strategic Marketing Plan, which continues to guide the program’s work.
Who should I contact at Visit Sitka? Are there staff based in Sitka?
Visit Sitka is managed by the Element team, with staff working both remotely and locally. Businesses and community members are always welcome to reach out with questions, updates, or ideas.
- Email: info@visitsitka.org
- Call/Text: (907) 623-2348
What happened to Visit Sitka Partnerships?
Visit Sitka no longer operates as a membership organization. The program is now open to the entire Sitka visitor industry, and businesses do not need to pay annual dues to be listed on the Visit Sitka website or considered for marketing opportunities. Businesses that previously participated in the program will continue to have their listings in place, and their information has been carried forward. There is no need to re-establish a listing.
Is there still a visitors’ center?
Visit Sitka no longer operates an in-person visitors’ center. The City and Borough of Sitka is currently working on plans for future in-person visitor information services. Harrigan Centennial Hall hosts a seasonal information desk, and the City is exploring how visitor services may continue to be provided in that space.
Visit Sitka continues to support visitor information through digital resources, publications, and travel planning assistance.
How is conference and meeting support changing under Visit Sitka’s new structure?
Under the new structure, Visit Sitka focuses on destination marketing and informational support rather than event planning logistics. Conference organizers will work directly with venues and local partners for event logistics and planning.
Visit Sitka can provide visitor information materials, destination resources and marketing support for bringing conferences to Sitka.
How does Visit Sitka work with the community to support tourism?
Visit Sitka works closely with local businesses, organizations, and community partners to promote Sitka as a welcoming and responsible travel destination.
Through marketing, storytelling, and visitor education, Visit Sitka helps connect visitors with the experiences, culture, and community that make Sitka unique while supporting a healthy visitor economy.
Element also serves on the Sitka Tourism Commission in an ex-officio (non-voting) seat, providing context, marketing insights, and visitor data to support informed conversations about tourism in the community.
Does Visit Sitka have a physical office? How can I connect with staff?
Visit Sitka does not currently have a physical office. Staff work remotely but are available for in-person meetings. Businesses and community members can connect with the Visit Sitka team by email or by scheduling a meeting here: Book with Visit Sitka.