As an island community, Sitka’s marine ecosystems are as vibrant as its terrestrial ones, and visitors interested in learning more about what goes on beneath the waves should visit the Sitka Sound Science Center at 834 Lincoln Street.
The center’s mission as a non-profit is to improve understanding of the habitats of coastal Alaska through science research and education. It has a functioning salmon hatchery and a visiting scientist program, researching topics from landslides to berry phenology.
The Molly O Ahlgren Aquarium, featuring some 200 local species, is the star of the SSSC. Its touch tanks and displays of different marine habitats, let visitors personally experience Sitka’s natural abundance. Tours of the salmon hatchery and intertidal zones are available, in addition to private behind-the-scenes tours that show more of the facility’s research processes.
The old mill building adjacent to the Science Center holds its gift shop, stocked with local Alaskan-made and eco-friendly products. It’s also home to the famous Luvig’s Chowder Cart, serving sandwiches and fresh chorizo clam chowder with homemade potato baguettes.
The Science Center’s summer hours, from May 5 to Sept. 25, are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday through Thursday. It’s closed on Fridays to walk-in visitors and closed on Saturdays. General admission is $15 for adults (ages 13 and up); $5 for children ages 5-12; and free for children under 5.
Visit Sitkascience.org, email aquarium@sitkascience.org or call (907) 747-8878 for further information or book private tours.
