The Ketchikan Hostel - Ketchikan, Alaska

The Ketchikan Hostel: A Budget-Friendly Option in Southeast Alaska

For travelers seeking an affordable and authentic Alaskan experience, The Ketchikan Hostel presents a compelling choice. Located in the heart of Ketchikan, Alaska, at 400 Main St, Ketchikan, AK 99901, this hostel offers a unique opportunity to connect with fellow adventurers and explore the stunning beauty of the region. The hostel’s phone number is 9072253319, and visitors can find more detailed information on their website: ketchikanmethodist.org. With an average opinion of 4.4/5 based on 15 reviews on Google My Business, it’s clear that The Ketchikan Hostel is well-regarded by those who have experienced its hospitality.

Location and Accessibility

The hostel’s strategic location at 400 Main Street places it within easy walking distance of many of Ketchikan’s key attractions. It’s approximately a 45-minute walk from the ferry terminal, roughly two miles, making it ideal for travelers arriving by water. This proximity is a significant advantage, particularly for those who prefer to avoid relying solely on taxis or rental vehicles. Ketchikan itself is a charming town steeped in history, renowned for its salmon fishing, totem poles, and vibrant arts scene. Being centrally located allows guests to readily immerse themselves in the local culture and explore the town’s unique offerings.

Accommodation and Amenities

The Ketchikan Hostel operates as a Hostel, prioritizing a communal atmosphere and budget-conscious travel. The accommodations are simple yet comfortable, featuring cots in shared rooms. Bedding is not provided; guests can either bring their own sleeping bags and pads or borrow them from the hostel for a small fee of approximately $5. This policy encourages a sense of shared responsibility and contributes to the hostel’s overall affordability. The hostel maintains a commitment to cleanliness, with the bathrooms consistently reported as well-maintained. The rooms themselves are described as clean and comfortable, offering a basic but satisfactory base for exploring Ketchikan.

What to Expect

The atmosphere at The Ketchikan Hostel is generally described as friendly and welcoming. Staff members, particularly Rhonda, are noted for their warmth and helpfulness. One guest recounted a delightful experience of receiving fresh, locally-picked strawberries to enjoy – a testament to the hostel’s commitment to providing small, thoughtful touches. The hostel’s focus on community is evident in its shared spaces, encouraging interaction among guests. While the accommodation is basic, it's undeniably clean and well-kept, providing a secure and comfortable environment.

Key Features & Considerations

• Affordability: The Ketchikan Hostel is a significantly more affordable option compared to traditional hotels or motels in Ketchikan.
• Communal Atmosphere: Guests can expect a social environment, fostering connections with fellow travelers.
• Simple Accommodation: Cots in shared rooms provide comfortable, basic sleeping arrangements.
• Self-Sufficient: Guests are responsible for providing their own bedding.
• Convenient Location: A walkable distance to the ferry terminal and key attractions.

Recommended Information for Prospective Guests

Before booking a stay at The Ketchikan Hostel, it’s beneficial for potential guests to be aware of the following: Bedding is not included, so planning to bring or rent bedding is crucial. Transportation to and from the ferry terminal is primarily walking, which may be challenging for those with mobility issues. The hostel’s communal nature means guests should be prepared for shared spaces and potentially noisy environments. However, the positive reviews consistently highlight the welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff. It is advisable to contact the hostel directly to confirm availability and inquire about any specific amenities or services offered.

Overall, The Ketchikan Hostel presents a fantastic opportunity for budget-conscious travelers seeking a genuine Alaskan experience. Its convenient location, affordable rates, and friendly atmosphere make it a popular choice among those looking to explore Ketchikan and the surrounding region. The hostel’s commitment to cleanliness and a welcoming environment further enhances its appeal. Visitors should anticipate a simple, comfortable stay and a chance to connect with a diverse group of fellow adventurers.

👍 Reviews of The Ketchikan Hostel

Luke D.

5/5

I just stayed at the Hostel last night, it was a great experience. Rhonda the host was very friendly, she even had fresh picked strawberries in the refrigerator to share. Bathroom was clean, room was simple with cots, but clean and comfortable. You will need to bring your own bedding or borrow from them for a small charge, $5 I believe. It was about a 45 minute walk from the ferry, about two miles. For $20 it was a great deal!

Compass27718466678

This was an affordable, friendly, and accommodating place to stay! it is located central to downtown with lots of just about everything that I wanted to see within walking distance and a block from public transportation and the water. The guest host, Cathy, was kind, helpful and friendly. It was also a great way to connect with fellow travelers.

Fearless35660109053

In a sea of overpriced accommodations, this is an oasis--perfectly situated right downtown, this is a spartan, but perfectly reasonable option for the traveler more interested in seeing the place than a fancy hotel room. I was in town to watch my son play in a baseball tournament, and my weekly rate was less than the cheapest night anywhere. After making coffee in the kitchen in the morning, I walked up the hill to use the public library's wifi to work remote during the day, spent my evenings watching baseball, and then enjoyed a good night's rest in the hostel. I recommend ear plugs, and I may bring a camping pad to augment the thin mattress/cot next time, but I will definitely be coming back next time sports travel brings me to town.

67leighd

We stayed here after rowing from Port Townsend, WA in the Race to Alaska! | It was a wonderful, safe, quiet place to sleep, take a much-needed shower and wash all our clothes. Thank you so much for providing this affordable place to stay in Ketchikan. We loved that it was within walking distance of everything we wanted to see and do downtown. And even though we aren't religious, we felt very welcome (the hostel is in a church). Just have to be aware of the office hours and time your comings/goings when staff are present to let you in.

jedipastorken

We met some friends in Ketchikan and took advantage of the hostel and its proximity to all the cool stuff in the town! Just blocks from Creek Street and the museums and great restaurants, this was a great way to save some money! The showers were clean and the rooms cared for. The mattresses were a little on the soft side but adequate. Guests were respectful as well as was the staff. Would stay here again in a heartbeat! This was a gift of hospitality from the church and a welcome one for sure!

Reilly B.

5/5

Very basic room setup, nice shower. I didn't use the kitchen but there's kitchen access. Friendly host, great price, clean facilities. The hours are strict so plan your schedule ahead of time.

Belle M.

5/5

I stayed 5 nights with Paul, Patty and Kaylee as my hosts. They were beyond generous, helped me plan hikes and activities, showed me around and made sure I was well fed.(Kaylee's baking was phenomenal)

This is a great place to stay for the budget traveler and offers a wonderful family atmosphere you can't get at a hotel. I highly recommend it.

I would suggest you plan your days and your gear to accommodate the hostel closing hours from 9am to 5pm. That was a surprise to me when I arrived, but ok, as there are many activities and hikes to keep you busy during that time. It does get rainy, we are in Ketchikan after all, so make sure you have rain gear too, for when you are out and about during the closed hours.

Chris11WV

This Hostel is in a church divided into male and female dorm rooms. Rooms and facility are clean with a common sitting room. Kitchen available to cook with place to store our food. For us, the accommodations were perfect as we basically needed a place to sleep. The only time they request that we not be present is between 9am - 5pm which worked well with our sightseeing and fishing. Kept our belongings in our rental car. Caretakers were very helpful and guided us to sites well worth seeing. Definitely will stay there upon our return.