Ketchikan: Lumberjack Show & Crab Feast

Ketchikan: Lumberjack Show & Crab Feast — A Genuine Alaska Experience

Imagine spending 2.5 hours in the heart of downtown Ketchikan, a city famous for its fishing, logging, and colorful history. For $158 per person, you get a lively Lumberjack Show combined with a mouthwatering all-you-can-eat Dungeness crab feast. Hosted at the historic Spruce Mill site—once the largest Sitka spruce mill in the world—this tour offers an engaging mix of Alaska’s rugged past, exciting entertainment, and fresh seafood.

Two things we love about this experience: First, the spectacle of lumberjack competitions featuring chopping, log rolling, and axe throwing—an authentic glimpse into Alaska’s logging culture. Second, the delicious crab feast with views over the harbor, bringing the local fishing industry right to your plate.

A possible consideration is that transportation to and from the show isn’t included, so you’ll want to plan how to get there. Otherwise, this tour is best suited for travelers looking for a fun, lively, and authentic glimpse into Alaska’s traditions combined with excellent food. Perfect for those who enjoy shows, seafood, and a taste of local industry.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Alaska Culture: Enjoy a spirited Lumberjack Show with world-champion athletes.
• Delicious Cuisine: Feast on unlimited Dungeness crab along with salad, potatoes, and carrot cake.
• Scenic Location: The tour takes place in downtown Ketchikan near the salmon and crab fishing fleets.
• Informative Experience: Learn about Alaska’s logging history at the Spruce Mill site.
• Small Group: Limited to 10 participants for a more intimate, relaxed experience.
• Accessibility: The tour is ADA accessible and includes covered, heated seating.

Exploring the Tour Itinerary in Detail

When you arrive at the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show Arena and Harbor Haus Pavilion, you’re immediately immersed in the area’s industrial and maritime ambiance. The Spruce Mill site, once the hub of Alaska’s logging industry, now provides a fitting backdrop for this lively show. Your host (likely in English) will check you in, and you’ll be ready for an afternoon packed with entertainment and flavor.

The Lumberjack Show is the centerpiece. Expect 12 events showcasing the strength and agility of Alaska’s top lumberjack athletes. The competition includes chopping, axe throwing, log rolling, climbing, and sawing—all performed with a good dose of humor and showmanship. The reviews highlight the high-energy, well-organized nature of the show, with one reviewer noting, “The show was fantastic,” despite some delays in food service. The heated, cushioned seating ensures comfort even if the weather isn’t perfect.

Just steps away, the Harbor Haus Pavilion becomes your dining room with a spectacular harbor view. Watching the fishing boats bring in their catch adds an authentic touch to the crab feast. The all-you-can-eat Dungeness crab is the star, accompanied by salad, baby red potatoes, and carrot cake—a simple but satisfying meal that many reviewers rave about, with one saying, “Delicious and plenty of food!” Beer or wine is included, though some reviews mention limited availability on certain days—so check if you’re craving a particular beverage.

After the meal, you’ll find yourself in downtown Ketchikan, where totem poles, historic Creek Street, and the lively salmon runs make for a perfect stroll. The tour’s location, just one block from cruise ship docks, makes it convenient for travelers with tight schedules or on cruise excursions.

What We Think of the Experience

The combination of entertainment and cuisine makes this tour stand out. The Lumberjack Show offers a lively, family-friendly look at Alaska’s logging heritage—think competitions that are loud, fast, and fun. We loved the vibrant energy of the show, with one reviewer describing it as a “rowdy good time” and noting that the athletes are world champions, which elevates the authenticity.

The crab feast is a highlight for seafood lovers. The all-you-can-eat aspect means you can indulge without worry, and the harbor views enhance the experience. The salad and potatoes complement the crab well, while the carrot cake provides a sweet finish.

The small group size (limited to 10 participants) encourages interaction and a more personalized experience. Plus, the covered, heated seating ensures comfort, making it accessible even during cooler weather.

However, some travelers noted that food service can be slow, especially at peak times, and that drinks like wine and beer are only served on weekends. It’s worth planning accordingly or being patient if you’re eager for your beverage.

This tour offers solid value—combining culture, excitement, and cuisine—making it a well-rounded activity for those wanting an authentic taste of Alaska’s logging and fishing roots.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers seeking a fun, lively introduction to Alaska’s traditions. It’s great for families, couples, or small groups who enjoy spectator sports, good food, and scenic views. If you’re interested in history and culture, with an appetite for seafood, this tour offers a memorable snapshot. It’s also perfect if you prefer short, manageable excursions that pack a lot of fun into a few hours.

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Practical Information

• Price: $158 per person, offering good value considering the entertainment, meal, and location.
• Duration: 2.5 hours—ideal for fitting into a busy day of sightseeing or cruise schedule.
• Location: Downtown Ketchikan, near the cruise docks.
• Includes: Entrance to the Lumberjack Show, all-you-can-eat crab feast, salad, potatoes, carrot cake, one beer or wine, unlimited water, coffee, tea, and soda.
• Not Included: Transportation to and from the site—plan ahead if you aren’t within walking distance.
• Accessibility: The tour is ADA accessible, with covered seating.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
No, transportation to and from the show pavilion is not included, so you will need to arrange your own travel to the site.

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $158 per person, which includes the Lumberjack Show ticket and the seafood feast.

Are vegetarian or non-crab options available?
Yes, vegetarians and those who don’t eat crab can request alternative options when checking in.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2.5 hours, making it a compact activity suitable for a single afternoon.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the lively, family-friendly nature of the show and the casual atmosphere make it suitable for children.

Can I get a full refund if I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexible planning.

Will I have a good view of the harbor during the meal?
Yes, the Harbor Haus Pavilion offers scenic views of the harbor, with boats and the fishing fleet just outside.

Is seating covered and heated?
Yes, seating is covered, heated, and cushioned, ensuring comfort even in cooler or rainy weather.

Final Thoughts

For anyone curious about Alaska’s rugged industries, lively traditions, and delicious seafood, this tour hits all the right notes. The Lumberjack Show is a raucous, energetic display of Alaska’s logging prowess, while the crab feast offers a taste of local bounty. The location in downtown Ketchikan makes it convenient, with plenty of sightseeing options afterward.

While transportation isn’t included, the compact schedule and authentic experience make this a worthwhile addition to your Alaska itinerary. Whether you’re a family wanting fun, a foodie craving fresh seafood, or a history enthusiast interested in logging heritage, this tour delivers a memorable slice of the Last Frontier.

If you value good entertainment, hearty cuisine, and an authentic sense of place, this activity is likely to become a highlight of your trip to Ketchikan. Just remember to check the beverage options if you’re craving wine or beer on a weekday.

In sum, this tour offers a lively, authentic, and delicious taste of Alaska’s traditions—perfect for travelers who want to enjoy entertainment, seafood, and a bit of local history in just a couple of hours.

You can check availability for your dates here: