What is Harrigan Centennial Hall?

Harrigan Centennial Hall is Sitka’s civic and convention center, hosting conferences, community gatherings and special events throughout the year. It is also the downtown drop-off and pick-up location for cruise terminal shuttles. During the summer, visitors can stop by the information desk for printed maps and travel materials, and tour vendors are often available on-site for same-day bookings. Most downtown restaurants, shops and attractions are just a short walk away. The building is also home to the Sitka History Museum.

Will my cell phone work in Sitka?

Probably. Cell service is available throughout most of Sitka, but coverage can vary by provider and may be limited near the ends of the road system or farther out on the water. It’s a good idea to check your provider’s coverage map before your trip.

Can I bring my pet to Sitka?

Yes. Before traveling, check with your airline or the Alaska Marine Highway for current pet requirements, including whether a recent health certificate is needed. You’ll also want to confirm that your accommodations allow pets and ask about any additional fees or deposits. Sitka has an enforced dog leash law.

Where can I store my luggage?

There are no commercial luggage storage options in town, however, many lodging facilities are generous in their luggage storage offerings.  Check with your hosts.

Is local bus service available?

Yes, Sitka’s public transit, the Ride, operates Monday-Friday, 6:30am-6:30pm. The hourly routes include Halibut Point Road, the ferry terminal, Japonski Island (does not include the airport, but includes Mt. Edgecumbe Hospital and the University of Alaska), Sawmill Creek Road ending at Gary Paxton Industrial Park from downtown Sitka. Please note The Ride is primarily for residential transit in and out of city center. Please visit ridesitka.com to download their route and pickup stops, time schedule and fees.  All buses are wheelchair accessible.  Please call (907) 747-7103 for more information.

How do I get downtown from my cruise ship?

First, click here to check the Visit Sitka cruise calendar to see where your ship is scheduled to arrive. Then, use the below key as your transportation guide.

STI/STO: Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal
This is the primary docking location for most major cruise lines, about six miles north of downtown. The port provides complimentary shuttle service to and from Harrigan Centennial Hall, where you’ll find tour vendors and visitor information. The ride takes about 10 to 15 minutes, with buses departing regularly while ships are in port.

CR1/2/3: Crescent Harbor
Your ship will tender you to Crescent Harbor, located next to Harrigan Centennial Hall and within easy walking distance of downtown.

BR1/2/3: O’Connell Bridge Dock
Your ship will tender you to the O’Connell Bridge Dock, about a five-minute walk from Harrigan Centennial Hall.

PET: Petro Marine Dock
This dock is generally used by small expedition ships, which typically provide private transportation as part of the cruise.

PIP: Gary Paxton Industrial Park
This location is also generally used by small expedition ships, which typically provide private transportation as part of the cruise.

Do I need to reserve transportation from the Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal?

Yes. If your ship is docking at the Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal, you’ll need to reserve a time to enter the complimentary shuttle queue for downtown. Complete your reservation at sitkadock.com. Booking early is recommended.

If you don’t have a reservation, you can use the standby line. Guests with reservations will board first, and standby passengers will be accommodated on a first-come, first-served basis as space becomes available. Wait times may be longer during busy periods.

What do you do in the winter?

Sitka’s fall and winter are very busy for the local community. Sitka is known for being very social and full of hospitality. An array of music, talent shows, art-inspired events, educational speakers, fundraising events and other exciting happenings take place frequently during this time frame. If you visit Sitka in fall or winter, please check out the local events through the Sitka Community Calendar or visit the Events Page for a list of annual events.

Can I see the northern lights from Sitka?

Sometimes, when the conditions are just right! Check out our blog post about northern light viewing in Sitka for the right conditions and the best viewing spots.

Aurora Forecast

Do you really have 6 months of daylight and 6 months of darkness?

Not in Sitka, although that statement isn’t too far off for Alaska’s highest northern villages, such as North Pole or Utqiagvik. In the summer months, Sitka sees daylight from around 4:00 am – 10:00 pm. During the winter, the sun rises close to 9:00 am and sets around 3:30 pm.