Visited Ketchikan on May 8, 2026, via the Norwegian Encore that docks at Ward Cove…read more The show has 2 performance areas one on Spruce Mill Way Downton, and in Ward Cove that is accessed via transports across rocky rough roads, you can see the Norwegian ships docked but it's not a friendly path for those with mobility issues without aided transportation. As for the show, for Alaska it is bargain priced, entertaining, with good family friendly humor. Saw numerous eagles above us during the show, and it was another dry day, though a bit chilly so I was happy to be wearing my insulated coat and gloves in the covered seats. I did think of the performers who after taking a dunk in cold water where interacting with the guests and taking pictures with them at the end of the show. Overall a great experience.

The axe throwing and lumberjack show are 10 star services and are absolutely worth viewing for…read moreyourself, I cannot say enough good things about them. However the organization getting to this show is -7. The events are great and I don't want to spoil anything, the organization I want to discuss. I have never see anything so bad ever! There is 3 lines going at once axe throwing, the show, and crab eating. The women making these lines absolutely have no idea what they are doing and can't keep track of what line goes where. I don't know if they know what they're doing or just don't care, but this HAS to change!

June, 2025. My husband and I loved our visit to Southeast Alaska Discovery Center, a collaboration…read morebetween the US Forest Service and Alaska parks on the Tongass National Forest. We spent about two hours in the center, but easily could have spent more. There are interesting cultural and ecological displays spread over two floors -- in well laid out and open display areas. There is also extensive programming, both with Ranger Programs and regular films in the comfortable theater. We particularly enjoyed watching two Native artists -- one putting finishing touches on an oil painting and the other painting a symbolic paddle. Youngsters can participate in the Junior Rangers Program. I was able to get a stamp in my National Parks Passport though technically this isn't a national park, and to buy a refrigerator magnet souvenir. Summer admission is $5 for those aged 16 and above; free for those 15 and younger. Tip: if you have a National Parks pass, it's accepted at the Discovery Center so don't leave it at home in Virginia! The Discovery Center is an easy walk from the cruise terminal, as well as the Creek Street area, but doesn't have the crowds of either.

The website for Southeast Alaska Discovery Center states that "...this USDA Forest Service managed…read morecenter serves as a gateway to the Tongass National Forest, the largest National Forest in the United States." The museum is located just a street away from where the Ruby Princess was docked. Inside were informative exhibits and artifacts. And, with our America The Beautiful Annual Park Pass, we bypassed the entrance fee. Plus, we got a stamp for our National Parks Passport even though it's not a National Park. Pretty neat visit, especially getting to see totem poles not worn out by the weather.