Petersburg Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and naturally beautiful city of Petersburg, Alaska with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, where to stay, what to do, and more.


Introduction to Petersburg

Nestled in Southeastern Alaska, Petersburg is a charming fishing town known for its rich Nordic heritage and breathtaking natural beauty. Its stunning glaciers, verdant forests, abundant wildlife, and unique cultural attractions make it a must-visit destination for all kinds of travelers.

List of Places to Visit in Petersburg

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Clausen Memorial Museum: This museum showcases the town’s Norwegian and Tlingit heritage through a collection of artifacts, photographs, and exhibits. It also houses a research center and a gift shop.
  • Petersburg Visitor Information Center: Here, visitors can learn about the town’s history, culture, and natural attractions. The center is housed in a quaint building that represents the town’s Nordic architecture.

Natural Attractions of Petersburg: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • LeConte Glacier: The southernmost tidewater glacier in North America, LeConte is a stunning wonder of nature that must be seen to be believed. Visitors can take a boat tour to get up close to the glacier.
  • Petersburg Creek-Duncan Salt Chuck Wilderness: This pristine wilderness area offers incredible opportunities for hiking, fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.
  • Stikine-LeConte Wilderness Area: Another wilderness area that is perfect for those who want to get away from it all, enjoy solitude, and take in the beautiful scenery.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Petersburg

  • Petersburg Mountain Trail: This trail offers stunning views of the town and surrounding areas, and is suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.
  • Sandy Beach Trail: A scenic route that winds through lush forests, crosses streams, and ends at a beautiful beach where visitors can picnic or relax and enjoy the sunshine.

Best Things to Do in Petersburg: Activities and Tours

  • Whale Watching Tour: A must-do activity for nature lovers, this tour takes visitors on a boat ride to see the humpback whales that frequent the waters around Petersburg.
  • Fishing Trip: Petersburg is known for its plentiful salmon, halibut, and other fish. Visitors can book fishing trips with local guides and enjoy a day on the water.
  • Kayaking Tour: Another way to see the beautiful waters of Petersburg is by kayak. Visitors can paddle through calm bays, narrow fjords, and stunning coastline.

Week-Long Itinerary for Petersburg

Day Activities
1 Visit Clausen Memorial Museum, go for a hike on Petersburg Mountain Trail
2 Take a whale watching tour, stroll around the harbor and enjoy local seafood
3 Visit the Petersburg Visitor Information Center, paddle a kayak in the bay
4 Explore the Stikine-LeConte Wilderness Area, go fishing with a local guide
5 Take a bike ride on the Sandy Beach Trail, visit local shops and galleries
6 Book a scenic flight to see the LeConte Glacier, relax at a local spa
7 Attend a local festival or event, dine at a fine seafood restaurant

Food and Drink Scene of Petersburg

Must-Try Dishes

  • King Crab: Caught fresh from the icy waters, king crab is a local delicacy that should not be missed.
  • Halibut: Another staple of the local cuisine, halibut can be cooked in many ways and is always delicious.
  • Chum Salmon Dip: A tasty spread made from smoked chum salmon, cream cheese, and spices, it is perfect for snacking.

Local Beverages

  • Alaskan Brewing Company Beers: These award-winning brews are made using only the finest local ingredients and are a must-try for any beer enthusiast.
  • Icy Strait Vodka: This artisanal vodka is distilled using water from the LeConte Glacier, giving it a unique and refreshing flavor.

Where to Stay in Petersburg: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Scandia House: A charming guesthouse that offers cozy rooms and a welcoming atmosphere, it is perfect for those who want a home-like experience.
  • Nordic House Bed and Breakfast: A comfortable and affordable option that offers stunning views of the harbor, it is a favorite among travelers.
  • Petersburg Island Resort: For those who want an exclusive and luxurious experience, this remote resort offers private cabins, fine dining, and endless outdoor adventures.

What to Buy in Petersburg: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Native Artifacts: Local artisans make beautiful Tlingit and Haida art, including masks, totems, and jewelry.
  • Wild-Caught Seafood: Visitors can bring home fresh seafood, smoked salmon, and other delicacies caught by local fishermen.
  • Alaskan Souvenirs: Gift shops and galleries offer a wide variety of Alaskan-themed clothing, artwork, and accessories.

Local Culture and Customs of Petersburg

Petersburg has a rich cultural heritage that is influenced by its Norwegian and Tlingit roots. The town celebrates its heritage through festivals, events, and traditions. Visitors should respect local customs and traditions and embrace the unique culture of the town.

Best Time to Visit Petersburg

The best time to visit Petersburg is during the summer months, from May to September. The weather is mild and pleasant, and the days are long, which allows for more time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Petersburg

Do:

  • Respect local traditions and customs.
  • Be mindful of the environment and wildlife.
  • Take plenty of pictures and share your experiences with others.

Don’t:

  • Disturb wildlife or their habitats.
  • Litter or pollute the environment.
  • Ignore safety precautions in outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Petersburg

Petersburg is a safe town with low crime rates. However, visitors should take precautions when exploring the wilderness areas and be aware of the potential dangers of outdoor activities, such as hiking, kayaking, and fishing.

Health in Petersburg

Petersburg has a hospital and clinics that offer basic healthcare services. Visitors should have travel insurance and take necessary precautions to prevent accidents and injuries.

Getting to Petersburg: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Petersburg

  • Petersburg James A. Johnson Airport is the main airport serving the town. Airlines that fly to Petersburg include Alaska Airlines and Taquan Air.

Bus Stations Near Petersburg

There are no bus stations in Petersburg, but visitors can take a bus from nearby towns to get there.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Petersburg by ferry or private boat.

How to Get Around in Petersburg

The town is small and walkable, and visitors can easily explore by foot. Taxis and rental cars are also available for those who want to venture further.

Where to Go Next from Petersburg: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Juneau: The capital of Alaska is only a short plane or ferry ride away and offers a variety of cultural and outdoor activities.
  • Sitka: Known for its Russian history, Sitka is a picturesque town that offers kayaking, hiking, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
  • Ketchikan: This coastal town is famous for its totem poles, salmon fishing, and beautiful landscapes.

Conclusion

Petersburg is a hidden gem that is waiting to be explored. Its unique blend of history, culture, and nature makes it a perfect destination for all kinds of travelers. We hope this guide will help you plan your trip to Petersburg and discover all the town has to offer.

Petersburg Harbor Petersburg Harbor