Passing through Ketchikan International Airport? A layover in Ketchikan is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 75 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
Important Details Before You Go
Before heading into Ketchikan, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for United States vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Ketchikan is roughly 75 minutes from KTN via Ketchikan Airport Ferry. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
Things to Do During Your Layover
If you head into Ketchikan, here are two things worth checking out:
Historic Creek Street is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. History buffs will appreciate this, and it doesn’t take long to explore the grounds.
Dolly’s House Museum is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at KTN, check out KTN Terminal Scenic Views or Ketchikan Airport Gift Shop to keep yourself occupied.
Getting to Ketchikan from the Airport
From KTN, the Ketchikan Airport Ferry gets you to Ketchikan in around 75 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 95 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Ketchikan Airport Ferry offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Eating Well on a Ketchikan Layover
For food in Ketchikan, local travelers recommend Annabelle’s Keg and Chowder House. If you have time for a second stop, The Alaska Fish House is another popular pick.
Back at KTN, The Landing Restaurant & Bar is the go-to. KTN Airport Coffee & Pastries rounds out your in-terminal options.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Ketchikan might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at KTN for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Ketchikan or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
What to Do With Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at KTN may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Ketchikan’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Sleep & Lounge Options at KTN
Long overnight layover? Your options at KTN include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in United States also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Ketchikan genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.