Ketchikan: Lumberjack Show & Crab Feast

Ketchikan: Lumberjack Show & Crab Feast — an authentic taste of Alaska’s rugged spirit and hearty seafood. This tour offers a lively combination of outdoor entertainment and delicious cuisine, set in the heart of Ketchikan’s historic harbor district. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers wanting a well-rounded, family-friendly experience that’s both fun and flavorful.

What draws us in is the promise of spectacular lumberjack competitions, the opportunity to see the local fishing scene firsthand, and the chance to indulge in a generous all-you-can-eat crab feast. Plus, the relatively short 2.5-hour schedule makes it easy to fit into a busy cruise or sightseeing day. One thing to keep in mind is that beverage options may vary depending on the day of the week, so don’t expect wine and beer on every visit, as reviews have pointed out. Still, the overall experience seems tailored for those who love lively outdoor shows, fresh seafood, and a taste of Alaskan industry.

This tour is especially suited for those seeking family-friendly entertainment, seafood lovers, and anyone interested in a lively, cultural snapshot of Ketchikan. It’s perfect for travelers who want a mix of fun and food, with enough authenticity to feel connected to local traditions.

Good To Know

• Authentic Alaskan Experience: Combines a famous lumberjack show with a local seafood feast.
• Short & Sweet: At 2.5 hours, it’s ideal for fitting into a busy itinerary.
• All-Inclusive Meal: Enjoy unlimited Dungeness crab, salad, potatoes, and dessert, with drinks included.
• Scenic Location: Set in downtown Ketchikan’s historic harbor district, with great views and local industry sights.
• Family & Accessibility Friendly: Suitable for small groups, with wheelchair access and a relaxed, covered seating area.
• Value for Money: For around $158, you get entertainment plus a hearty meal, with flexible cancellation options.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point & Location

The tour begins at the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show Arena, located just a block from Ketchikan’s cruise docks, making it very convenient for cruise ship passengers. Check-in is at the facility with your ticket, and you’ll find yourself in a lively, historic part of town—the Thomas Basin district—home to the fishing and crab boats, which set the scene for this maritime-meets-mountain adventure.

The Lumberjack Show: Thrills & Skills

The main event is the world-famous Lumberjack Show, hosted in the historic Spruce Mill site—once the largest Sitka spruce mill in the world. The arena features covered, heated, and cushioned seating, so even if the weather turns rainy (which is common in Ketchikan), you’ll stay comfortable.

The show involves 12 events including chopping, log rolling, axe throwing, and climbing. These competitions feature world champion athletes, and the atmosphere is lively, with spectators encouraged to cheer and participate. Reviewers have called it “rowdy” and “silly,” but also “very well organized and entertaining,” with one noting they even performed through rain, which did not dampen the fun.

The guides and performers are known to be knowledgeable and engaging, adding a layer of authenticity and humor to the experience. Expect a mix of friendly banter and impressive feats, making it suitable for all ages.

The Crab Feast & Harbor Views

Just a few steps from the show, the Harbor Haus Pavilion offers the crab feast—a true highlight. Watching the busy harbor, filled with fishing boats, you’ll see the daily catch being brought in, providing a real sense of Ketchikan’s industry. The all-you-can-eat Dungeness crab comes with salads, baby red potatoes, and a sweet carrot cake, offering a hearty, satisfying meal.

Guests consistently praise the delicious crab and plentiful portions. One reviewer called the crab “awesome” and “delicious,” adding that there was “plenty of food.” The atmosphere here is casual, with outdoor views and a relaxed vibe, making it a perfect spot to unwind after the excitement of the show.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Additional Details & Practical Tips

• Inclusions: Your ticket grants access to the Lumberjack Show and the crab feast, plus drinks like one beer or wine (though some reviews note this may only be available on weekends). Unlimited water, coffee, tea, and soda help keep everyone refreshed.
• Exclusions: Transportation to and from the venue isn’t included, so plan your arrival accordingly—though the location’s proximity to cruise docks makes walking easy.
• Timing & Availability: The tour is typically available in the morning or afternoon, lasting 2.5 hours. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
• Group Size & Accessibility: Small groups (up to 10 participants) ensure a more intimate experience, and the site is ADA accessible, accommodating a range of needs.

Review Highlights & Authentic Insights

Multiple guests have commented on the quality of the show and the food. One said, “The lumberjack show was amazing… even through the rain,” reflecting the outdoor nature and resilience of the event. Another noted that “the meal was slow to come,” but still enjoyed the food once served.

Some mention that beverages like wine and beer are only available on weekends, so if you’re visiting Monday or Tuesday, you might need to skip the alcohol. Despite this, the inclusion of a beer or wine with the meal adds a nice touch for those wanting to relax and toast.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

For the price of $158, you get a lively, family-friendly show combined with a generous seafood feast that’s hard to match in terms of both quality and quantity. The small-group format keeps the experience personal, and the central downtown location makes it accessible without fuss.

It’s an excellent way to see a true piece of Alaskan culture—the snow-capped trees, the hardworking fishermen, and the rugged, competitive spirit of lumberjacks—while also enjoying a delicious meal with beautiful harbor views.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is best suited for families or groups wanting a lively, outdoor show, especially those interested in authentic Alaskan industry. Seafood lovers will appreciate the all-you-can-eat crab, and those looking for entertainment that’s both humorous and impressive will find plenty to enjoy. It’s also a great option for travelers who want a compact, memorable activity that combines culture, cuisine, and fun.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
No, transportation to and from the shows isn’t included. However, since the venue is just a block from the cruise docks, walking is straightforward for most guests.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably and be prepared for outdoor weather. As the seating is covered and heated, you’ll stay warm even if it rains.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian and non-crab options can be requested during check-in, so let the activity provider know ahead of time.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs approximately 2.5 hours, making it easy to slot into a half-day schedule.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is the venue accessible for people with disabilities?
Absolutely. The site is ADA accessible, with accommodations for wheelchair users.

Will I see the local fishing or industry scenes?
Definitely. The location is in the historic Thomas Basin district, overlooking the harbor filled with fishing boats, and you’ll witness the daily catch being brought in, providing a genuine look at local industry.

In essence, the Ketchikan Lumberjack Show & Crab Feast offers a lively, well-organized slice of Alaskan life, perfect for travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor entertainment and hearty, fresh seafood. It’s a fun, value-packed outing that balances spectacle with authentic local flavor, making it a memorable part of any Ketchikan visit.

You can check if your dates are available here: