Cruise the Inside Passage of Alaska and Explore on Your Own: Free & Low-Cost Adventures in Every Port!

Dreaming of an Alaskan cruise but want to explore without breaking the bank on expensive excursions? Good news! Many ports along the Inside Passage offer incredible experiences that are either completely free or come with a very small fee, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local culture and stunning natural beauty on your own terms. Just remember that while the activities themselves might be free or cheap, transportation to some of these spots may incur a separate cost.

Here's your guide to budget-friendly exploration in Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, and Victoria, BC:

Ketchikan: The Salmon Capital's Charms

Known for its vibrant Native Alaskan culture and abundant salmon, Ketchikan offers a mix of history and nature for the independent explorer.

Stroll Historic Creek Street: Wander along this picturesque wooden boardwalk built on stilts over the water. It's completely free and offers great photo opportunities, and you might even spot salmon in the creek during spawning season.
Hike the Rainbird Trail: A peaceful escape into the Tongass National Forest, offering lovely views and a dose of fresh air. No cost involved for the hike itself.
Self-Guided Downtown Walking Tour: Explore the town's history and charming storefronts at your own pace. This is entirely free.
Totem Bight State Historical Park: Immerse yourself in Native Alaskan artistry with a stunning collection of totem poles. There is a $5 per person entry fee from May to September. To get there, you'll likely need to take a public bus, which costs around $2 each way.
Totem Heritage Center: Another fantastic spot to admire impressive totem poles and learn about their cultural significance. Entry is $5 per person from May to September. It's about a 10-15 minute walk from the cruise ship docks, or you can take a public bus for approximately $2 each way.

Juneau: Glaciers and Gold Rush Echoes

Alaska's capital combines urban charm with incredible natural wonders, making it perfect for independent exploration.

Mendenhall Glacier & Nugget Falls: Get awe-inspiring views of the Mendenhall Glacier from the public viewing areas and walk the free trails leading to Nugget Falls. If you wish to enter the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center building, there's a $5 per person fee from May to September (kids 15 and under are free). Transportation to the glacier via public bus from downtown costs about $2 each way, but be prepared for a walk of roughly 1.5 miles from the bus stop to the visitor center area.
Self-Guided Downtown Walking Tour: Discover Juneau's unique shops, historical buildings, and waterfront area. Free to explore!
Visit the Alaska State Capitol: Step inside to admire Alaskan art and experience the state's legislative hub. No entry fee.
Explore Cope Park: A relaxing urban park perfect for a leisurely stroll. Free to enter.

Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier: Nature's Masterpiece from Your Ship

Unlike the other ports, Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier are primarily experienced as a scenic cruise.

Scenic Cruising from Your Ship: The absolute best and entirely free way to experience this breathtaking fjord is from the comfort of your cruise ship's deck. Marvel at the cascading waterfalls, spot wildlife like seals and eagles, and witness the majestic Dawes Glacier calving (when chunks of ice break off).

Skagway: Step Back into the Gold Rush Era

Skagway's entire town feels like a living museum dedicated to the Klondike Gold Rush.

Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park

Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park: This fantastic park offers free ranger-led programs and a visitor center packed with historical exhibits, bringing the stampeders' journey to life. Completely free!
Self-Guided Broadway Avenue Walking Tour: Stroll down the historic main street to see beautifully preserved buildings like the Arctic Brotherhood Hall and Jeff Smith's Parlor. Free to wander.
Hike to Yakutania Point: Enjoy scenic views of the harbor and mountains on this relatively easy hike. Free.
Hike to the Gold Rush Cemetery: A unique historical site offering a glimpse into Skagway's past. Free to visit.

Victoria, BC: Canadian Charm on Vancouver Island

Your final port, Victoria, offers a blend of British charm and beautiful gardens.

Explore the Inner Harbour: Walk around this vibrant waterfront area, taking in the sights of the Parliament Buildings and Fairmont Empress Hotel. Free and full of energy.
Wander through Beacon Hill Park: A sprawling urban park with beautiful gardens, winding trails, and even resident peacocks. Free to enjoy.
Explore Victoria's Chinatown: Discover Canada's oldest Chinatown with its unique architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Free to explore.
British Columbia Parliament Buildings: Take a free guided tour of these impressive legislative buildings on weekdays, offering insights into the province's history and government.

Looking for Paid Excursions? Cruise liner vs. 3rd Party Option

While booking excursions directly through the cruise liner offers convenience and security (like ship-side meet-ups and itinerary change handling), you can also explore third-party options like Shore Excursions Group for potentially lower prices or if cruise liner tours are sold out, knowing they also offer cruise-passenger focused tours with guarantees for timely returns.

If you're interested in booking organized paid excursions, you can explore options with Shore Excursions Group for various Alaska sailings: