Being a tourist is more of a mentality sometimes. Even if you are born-and-raised Alaskan, there are whole towns you might never have explored that can be just as new as venturing anywhere else for a trip. With a rich history and local heritage and scenery to match, why not tour a small town worth playing tourist in? Grab that road trip idea book, and make sure Petersburg is added to the list.

Many places across the world are named Petersburg, but Petersburg, Alaska is home to a special blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and that small-town vibe we all love to relax in. Playing tourist here means you can treat yourself to a day or two of this little adventure.
Ryan Erickson/Flickr
Petersburg is also the home of an important civil rights activist known as Elizabeth Peratrovich. She was a member of the Tlingit nation who fought for the equality and rights of Alaska Natives and was a key part of Alaska's Anti-Discrimination Act of 1945.
Alaska State Library/Wikimedia Commons
Though she sadly passed in 1958, the appreciation never stopped, just like her important work. She has since been featured on a 2020 US gold $1 coin for her work and accomplishments.
City and Borough of Juneau Facebook
There is also a strong Norwegian heritage in town, displayed in art all over as well as the 1912 Sons of Norway Lodge. In fact, you might see just as much Norwegian-influenced design as you see Tlingit works.
Ryan Erickson/Flickr
Over the years, this building has housed all manner of town events, meetings, bingo games, and even a temporary headquarters for the National Guard.
Speaking of Tlingit heritage and art, there's even a way to take home a piece of your trip! Shopping for Alaska Native art and gifts at The Cedar Box is easy with such a beautiful spread of goods to choose from.
The Cedar Box, 101 B N Nordic Dr, Kupreanof, AK 99833, USA
The Cedar Box Facebook
Art, apparel, home decor, and even sea otter fur winter wear is available, all supporting a local business. Technically, it's both art and tradition in one.

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While you're exploring town, you're definitely going to need a bite to eat. Thankfully, there are a few great restaurants to choose from! Inga's Galley, whenever it's open, is a great mix of local fresh seafood and just enough tourist-attracting decor to keep things fun.
Inga's Galley, 104 N Nordic Dr, Petersburg, AK 99833, USA
Inga's Galley Facebook
If you're a fan of fish, you'll find plenty of good food here.
Of course, despite fish being a centerpiece in Alaska, some prefer other fare. Papa Bear's Pizza is here to save the day with pizzas made to order. Who could say no to a fresh slice?
Papa Bear's Pizza, 219 N Nordic Dr, Petersburg, AK 99833, USA
Papa Bears Pizza Facebook
Last but certainly not least, a great bakery and restaurant to stop by on your adventure is none other than The Salty Pantry. Everything from cakes and pies to plentiful pastries is a great choice for anyone with a sweet tooth.
The Salty Pantry, 14 Harbor Way, Petersburg, AK 99833, USA
The Salty Pantry Facebook
Of course, once the fuel is figured out, the adventure is much easier to plan. If your idea of an adventure also includes natural beauty, you're in luck. The stunning Tongass National Forest holds plenty of beauty within it.
Tongass National Forest, Alaska 99833, USA
Gia Popa/AllTrails
Exploring its hiking trails is just one way to take it in while you're in the area.
If you don't object to a special adventure taking up a lot of your day, consider a whale watching or glacier tour with Alaska Passages. Whale breaches and the beautiful blue of the glaciers are great reasons to get on the water.
Alaska Passages Adventures, 602 1st St, Petersburg, AK 99833, USA
Alaska Passages Adventure Cruises Facebook
If you happen to like longer adventures and want to stay overnight or longer, you'll find some of the best comfort at a hotel named Scandia House. Comfortable, clean, and often with charming views of the town. What more could you want?
Scandia House, 110 N Nordic Dr, Petersburg, AK 99833, USA
Scandia House

If you like short adventures like this, here are small towns all over Alaska that are perfect to visit or settle down in permanently. Why not plan another fun trip?

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Featured Addresses
Petersburg, AK 99833, USA
The Cedar Box, 101 B N Nordic Dr, Kupreanof, AK 99833, USA
Inga's Galley, 104 N Nordic Dr, Petersburg, AK 99833, USA
Papa Bear's Pizza, 219 N Nordic Dr, Petersburg, AK 99833, USA
The Salty Pantry, 14 Harbor Way, Petersburg, AK 99833, USA
Tongass National Forest, Alaska 99833, USA
Alaska Passages Adventures, 602 1st St, Petersburg, AK 99833, USA
Scandia House, 110 N Nordic Dr, Petersburg, AK 99833, USA