Petersburg Travel Guide

There are currently 4 bars in Petersburg, not counting the Elks and Moose Clubs.

The first place to go is the Harbor Bar. Towards the end of town right next door to Coastal Cold Storage. This is where alot of the locals start. It has alot of town history hanging on its walls and not too big. There are two pool tables and a huge tv for when the super bowl is on. Usually closes down around midnight and then it's time to move on to the next bar...

Kito's Kave. Situated down Sing Lee Alley which is one of the oldest streets in town. With no windows, it is a cave! There is usually a live band which makes it more lively. It is bigger than the harbor and can get quite packed due to it being popular with the cannery workers. This place can get quite lively! They shut down at the respectable hour of 2am. If Kito's is too much, it's time to move on...

Ole's is a small bar situated across from the ferry terminal over a pizzaria. It is small with a pool table, a couple of dartboards and guest DJs. Most of the younger crowd hang out here. If you want a little more "self" entertainment head down the street...

Literally, the Joan Mei Karaoke Bar is 3 doors down. No hard liquor, just beer and wine, and a mic calling your name. Jump up and sing us a few tunes won't you?

The pic is of me and a friend as Valkyries. Yes, a night of debauchery with a couple of locals. We were enjoying some really good grog and whooping it up. Ahhh... those ol' rowdy days of mine. lol

Dress Code: A couple girls wandered into the bars in nothing but sneakers and not an eye was batted. However, I recommend at least wearing the standard: shoes, shirt and pants. Please, if not for your own sake, for that of us poor locals!

I'm about as much Norwegian as I am Irish, so I thought it was great that I wound up in Petersburg one March and got to participate in the St. Patty's Day Parade. Everyone had great fun.

While finding yourself within close range to an animal, be it a porcupine or bear, too many people forget they are wild and can be unpredictable. There have been a few incidents where people assume they are experts in how to navigate the wild and wander off trails or away from the tour group they are suppose to be with. They quickly find out that the wildlife don't always conform to popular conceptions of what will or won't keep them at bay. When in the wilds, be prepared with a pack filled with essentials to keep you safe and alive. Whether you feel it is necessary or not, ask any local and 9 out of 10 will probably tell you that if you are headed for the outdoors where you might meet up with a bear, a gun is a good idea. Be smart and aware of your surroundings. Don't crowd a bear who has young or is feeding (like catching salmon) though it may be a great photo op. It is always best to go in groups because you are less likely encounter an agressive animal with more than one person.

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This is a general tip when traveling anywhere really.

My biggest pet peeve, came when I was told that for most places that are visited by large cruise companies, in Alaska, THEY own the shops that are most frequented by their passengers. And if you look at where the souviners are made, it says CHINA! This is crazy! I figure, if I want a cheap little souviner to remember my trip by that is made in China, I will go to China! In Alaska, look for "Made In Alaska".

That being said, look very closely at the item you purchase. It depends on where you are shopping too. I won't tell you who sells China made Alaskan souvineres, but I will tell you where to get authentic MADE IN ALASKA treasures: Go to The Framer's Loft. The owner has the same pet peeve as me and strives to sell only Alaskan made items. If it isn't made in Alaska (which is rare), it is made in the USA!

So keep your eyes peeled and watch out for mementos that are true to your journey.

Unique Suggestions: Ask locals where to get authentic "Made In Alaska" items and ask them to show you the labels. Some smaller towns, such as Petersburg, have Alaskan made items mixed with China made items. So, when going into a shop, specifically ask the owner if the items they carry are made in Alaska or not.

Clothing/Shoes/Weather Gear: A raincoat or poncho and/or a good sturdy umbrella is essential or you may find yourself stuck indoors for much of your visit. Bring galoshes or rainboots unless you like soggy socks. Bring cool and warm weather clothing since the weather can change drastically in the summer.

Toiletries and Medical Supplies: Bring mosquito repellent or be eaten alive. Our mosquitoes have been known to carry off small children and animals, much like pteryldactyls.

Photo Equipment: Bring alot of film or be prepared to buy it when you arrive. Video gear is a good idea, especially during Little Norway Festival.

Camping/Beach/Outdoor Gear: Any outdoor gear is a good bet. Mosquito netting, flare gun, fishing gear is also a must.