2 tourist attractions in alaska

19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Alaska

Written by Becca Blond and Brad Lane Updated Mar 18, 2024

It is hard to write about Alaska without sounding cliché. The state is simply that magnificent. A place where the landscapes and wildlife, climate, and seasonal shifts, are larger, and at times more extreme, than anywhere else in the U.S. A largely roadless, uninhabited and still very wild section of the planet, Alaska's nickname of The Last Frontier rings oh so true.

Where else can you find a state capital (Juneau) with no road access? Or a town, Barrow (its northernmost) where the sun won't rise for 67 days in winter, but during summer, doesn't set for more than 80 days? Even Alaska's largest city, Anchorage, exudes a small-town charm and is the kind of place where moose often wander downtown streets.

Alaska is home to North America's highest peak, 20,320-foot-high Denali, as well as the four largest national parks in the country. As such, it serves as a grandiose outdoor playground. Hiking, paddling, fishing, and whale spotting are a few of the many ways to enjoy these wilderness treasures. Other everyday adventures include bear watching, rainforest exploring, and taking a boat ride through the Inside Passage.

Cities and towns in Alaska offer unique cultural appeal. These basecamps for adventure have museums and other tourist attractions. And with places like the Alaska Native Heritage Center in Anchorage, they also offer insight into the communities that have called Alaska home for thousands of years.

Discover the best places to visit in this ruggedly beautiful state with our list of the top attractions in Alaska.

Denali National Park

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From big bears and moose to towering mountains and so much open space, Denali National Park is spectacularly beautiful and blissfully wild. If you enjoy leaving the beep of cell phone notifications behind and just getting lost in nature for a little while, this is the park to visit.

Drive to Savage River, where the 15 miles of pavement open to passenger vehicles in Denali National Park ends, and you'll really feel you are indeed in the Last Frontier. While most U.S. national parks are relatively developed, Denali, like much of Alaska itself, remains a roadless wilderness. Only one road runs through the entire park , and after Savage River, you'll need to hop into a park shuttle bus to go further on anything other than your own two feet.

The third largest national park in the U.S., located about halfway between Anchorage and Fairbanks, Denali is mostly a trail-less wilderness . Except for marked trails around the Denali Visitor Center at the entrance, hiking the park's six million acres means using a GPS device to head out in one direction and see what you encounter.

You'll need to be prepared for a backcountry experience and will want to check in at the visitor's center and leave your planned route and length of stay with a ranger then check in again when you return.

The park, which is easily accessible via the Alaska Railroad , is home North America's highest mountain , the 20,320-foot Denali. If you remember the peak by another name, it was officially referred to as Mount McKinley until 2015, when its traditional name replaced the one that modern explorers dubbed it.

The park is extremely photogenic, and the landscape here runs the gamut from wide river valleys to high alpine lakes, low-elevation taiga forest, and craggy, glacier-draped peaks.

Wild creatures abound in Denali, and it is not uncommon to see moose and even grizzly bears near the visitor center or on the side of the road. Always carry bear spray when hiking. Other animals that call this park home include wolves, reindeer, elk, and more than 167 species of bird. Another favorite among the park's many things to do is the Sled Dog Kennels , which offer demonstrations and are home to dozens of energetic huskies.

If you plan on driving here, have a read through my article Alaska Road Trip: Driving from Anchorage to Denali National Park .

Address: Milepost 240, George Parks Hwy, Denali National Park, Alaska

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/dena/index.htm

Tracy Arm is a fjord edged with glaciers, located south of Juneau. Waterfalls tumble down the sharp rock walls, and glaciers calve, creating small icebergs. It's a popular destination for cruise ships and boat tours.

The fjord lies within the Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness of Tongass National Forest . At the head of the fjord sit the twin Sawyer Glaciers . Wildlife sightings are common on tours, whether it's a brown bear or moose on land, or the whales and seals that inhabit these waters.

Tracy Arm offers just a small slice of glacier viewing in Alaska. Other tourist favorites include Glacier Bay National Park, northwest of Juneau, and Prince William Sound, near Anchorage. Several guiding companies in Juneau, like Adventure Bound Alaska , offer affordable day trips and unobstructed views of the beauty.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Juneau

Protecting much of the fjord-riddled coastline of the Kenai Peninsula (south of Anchorage), this national park offers some of the best sightseeing in Alaska. Panoramic landscapes in the park take in the many glaciers of the 700-square-mile Harding Icefield and an uninhabited coastline. And the national park is home to monstrously large brown bears that feed on the fat-rich salmon.

Many tourist options converge in the surrounding areas, including the end of Highway 1 in Homer. A popular means for entry into the park is the Alaska Railroad and the Seward Highway, both ending in Seward, near the park's northern boundary. The only area in the park accessible by vehicle is Exit Glacier , where several trails offer closer views at the end of the icefield.

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/kefj/index.htm

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Anchorage, Alaska

Anchorage may be Alaska's biggest city, with a population of around 300,000 residents, but it feels a lot like a small town. The compact downtown is very walkable and feels like it hasn't changed much in the last 50 years.

It's a quirky little place, completely void of skyscrapers, that's still home to mom-and-pop shops and downhome restaurants. The kind of city where moose, and even bears, are known to wander down central streets. Anchorage summers are wonderful. Temperatures are mild and the sun doesn't set until close to midnight, and even then, it never really gets dark.

Most travelers arrive and depart Alaska via Anchorage International Airport, before heading on to other parts of the state. But the city makes a great base for day trip adventures. The outstanding Chugach State Park , encompassing nearly a half-million acres, is within easy reach of this city. For further adventures, a popular way to travel from Anchorage into the wild landscapes is via the 470-mile Alaska Railroad , which is headquartered in Anchorage.

And it's not even required to leave the city's core for adventure. A few popular city attractions include the Alaska Native Heritage Center and the Anchorage Museum. And for outdoor exploration without traveling far, head to the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail for a stunning 11-mile bike ride. Bicycle rentals are available throughout town.

Also known as the Alaska-Canada Highway, or Alcan Highway, The Alaska Highway runs from Dawson Creek in British Columbia (Canada) through the Yukon Territory to Delta Junction near Fairbanks . It was built for military purposes in 1942, during WWII, in the record time of only eight months.

Since the end of the war, the route has been the most important means of access by land to the Yukon Territory and southern Alaska. It's also a favorite with recreational vehicle travelers. The highway passes through Whitehorse, Canada before crossing the international border into Alaska and ending in Delta Junction.

Motels, shops, and gas stations lie at intervals of 30 to 50 miles. Traveling along the Alcan Highway is generally straightforward, though commuters need to pack accordingly, as much of the route traverses through remote landscapes.

With some of the best views of Mount Denali from vistas around it, Talkeetna is a charming, eccentric little town. It is well worth a visit if you are driving or taking the train between Anchorage and Denali National Park.

If you want to have a meeting with Talkeetna's mayor, you'll need to head to Nagley's General Store and ask for Aurora. She can be quite moody, although she's always open to food bribes. Just don't bring a dog along when you visit, she snarled and hissed and threw this writer's Chihuahua right out of her domain. If you are getting lost with the plot at this point, we'll fill you in: Aurora is a cat.

Talkeetna doesn't have a human mayor but is on its third feline leader. The town's original, and most famous, kitty mayor was Stubbs, who ruled with an iron paw from 1997 to 2017 when he passed away.

Rumor also has it that Talkeetna was the inspiration behind the 90s TV show, Northern Exposure , although the series itself was filmed in Washington. It is a mostly seasonal destination with most of the dozens of restaurants and shops lining its two-street downtown open only between mid-May and mid-September.

Talkeetna is also a popular place to book flight-seeing tours . These take place in small planes that fly you around or over the summit of Denali, depending on the weather. Some tours even land on a glacier. Check out K2 Aviation Talkeetna or Talkeetna Air Taxi, both in town, to arrange a trip.

Located in Fairbanks, the University of Alaska Museum of the North offers more than one million historical artifacts and natural history pieces. The permanent collection includes ethnological items made and used by indigenous groups and a fine arts collection that focuses mainly on Alaskan art .

The collection also features archaeological finds from prehistoric cultures, an assemblage of birds, and several paleontology specimens. The building that houses the museum is also noteworthy. It was designed by Joan Soranno, and the white structure has interesting lines and curves intended to resemble the Alaskan landscape.

The museum is free for students and faculty of the university, and the public is welcome with paid admission. Visitors are encouraged to explore the museum at their own pace, and larger groups can call ahead to book a customizable tour experience.

Address: 1962 Yukon Drive, Fairbanks, Alaska

Official site: http://www.uaf.edu/museum/

The Inside Passage is a collection of sheltered channels and straits in Southeast Alaska. The most popular way to visit is to cruise through the fjords on large ships, charter boats, and private yachts. Another option is to stop off the highway at Haines , Skagway , or Hyder .

Along the coastal passage, the Tongass National Forest covers 17 million acres and includes islands, mountains, glaciers, ice fields, fjords, and waterfalls. Included in the forest is Prince of Wales Island , one of the largest islands in the US. The area is also inhabited by the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples.

Major towns along the route include Skagway , with its Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park ; the once-chief town of Russian America Sitka ; and Ketchikan , where stoic totems are on display at both Totem Bight State Historic Park and the Totem Heritage Center .

Official site: http://www.fs.usda.gov/tongass/

Noted as the "Backbone of the Last Frontier," the Alaska Railroad is a prominent part of Alaska's history and still a vital transportation option. Extending from Seward to Fairbanks , this railroad helped develop Anchorage from a tent town into what it is today, and the line played an important shipping role in World War II.

Today, the Alaska Railroad is owned by the state and shuttles more than 500,000 passengers each year. Popular destinations along the route include the Chugach National Forest, Anchorage, and Denali National Park & Preserve . The Alaska Railroad offers a variety of routes, services, and special event rides including backcountry ski packages and a kids' Halloween Train.

Official site: https://www.alaskarailroad.com/

The Dalton Highway stretches over 400 miles into Alaska's Far North region, eventually reaching the outpost of Prudhoe Bay . It's accessible from Fairbanks and Anchorage and built adjacent and in conjunction with the Trans-Alaska Pipeline . The road is extremely remote, rugged, and not well-traveled outside of oil-field workers.

Well-prepared sightseers have an incentive to navigate the lonely highway, though, with both Gates of the Arctic National Park & Preserve and the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge lining the roadside.

At the northern end of the route, the Dalton Highway crosses into the Arctic Circle , where the summer solstice brings 24 hours of daylight and the winter means 24 hours of darkness. Driving a personal vehicle isn't the only choice to experience the Arctic Circle, and frequent bus and plane tours depart from Fairbanks and Anchorage.

A popular reason to visit this northern latitude is the Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights , which appear on many nights from September to Mid-April. Joining an aurora tour can help keep sightseers warm in this frigid season.

Offering more than just a look into the lives and values of Alaska's 11 major cultural groups, the Alaska Native Heritage Center provides hands-on interaction with music, people, and art. Alongside interpretive information, the Heritage Center is a place to visit to connect with the community and participate in programs and events.

The Heritage Center is just outside Anchorage. It includes The Gathering Place for Alaska Native dancing and storytelling and the Hall of Cultures , filled with exhibits and local vendors displaying handmade crafts and works of art.

The scenic Lake Tiulana is also on the grounds, surrounded by traditional dwellings of Alaska Natives. Though this sightseeing attraction is located out of downtown, there is a summer-season shuttle from the modern Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center.

Address: 8800 Heritage Center Drive, Anchorage

Official site: http://www.alaskanative.net/

Twelve miles northwest of the state capital and accessible by road, the Mendenhall Glacier snakes down from the 1,500-square-mile Juneau Icefield to touch the shores of a small lake. The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center looks out over both the glacier and the iceberg-dotted waters, while trails venture along the shore to roaring Nugget Falls , as well as the impressive ice mass.

Rafting and kayaking trips allow visitors to float among the bergs. Wildlife such as black bears, porcupines, and beavers are commonly spotted while exploring this dazzling blue landscape. Arguably the best season to visit is between May and October, where sunshine is more likely to be on the forecast. However, the glacier is also fun to visit on rainy days, as the ice takes on a different hue of blue.

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve is the largest and most magnificent of Alaska's sprawling national parks -- it is also the largest national park in the U.S. This grandiose mountain region has nine of the 16 highest peaks in the United States. Other defining features of this park bordering Canada include glaciers, lakes, mountain streams, and a rich variety of wildlife.

Wrangell-St. Elias is a superb country for climbers, walkers, and water sports enthusiasts. And the park's Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark gives insight into the one-time mill town with barely preserved heritage buildings and abandoned mines.

Other points of interest include a selection of 14 backcountry cabins, many of which are only accessible by flying into remote airstrips.

Address: Mile 106.8 Old Richardson Highway, Copper Center, Alaska

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/wrst/index.htm

The Iditarod National Historic Trail is Alaska's only National Scenic Trail. It consists of a network of trails totaling more than 2,300 miles between Nome, on the Bering Strait, and Seward, near Anchorage. Originally used by ancient hunters and later by gold prospectors, the trail is now used, and best known, for the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race .

Extensive landscapes surround the entire route, offering beautiful views of mountains, glaciers, and wildlife. Although it is primarily a winter trail, hikers do use sections during the summer months including the popular Crow Pass Trail within Chugach State Park.

Official site: https://www.blm.gov/programs/national-conservation-lands/national-scenic-and-historic-trails/iditarod

Brooks Falls, in Katmai National Park, is synonymous with brown bears. That's because starting in June and peaking in July, spawning salmon travel the Brooks River and attract the park's largest mammals in droves. Today, elevated platforms around the falls enable some of the best wildlife viewings in the country.

Brooks Falls and Katmai National Park are on the Alaskan Peninsula, which extends from the southwest mainland. The only two feasible ways to reach the park are by plane or by boat. Often, visitors book an all-in-one vacation package to experience the falls, but it's not required. Several aviation companies also offer simple shuttle services to the park.

The journey to Seward is equally as alluring as the small town itself. To reach the community from Anchorage, visitors travel by way of the Seward Highway . This All-American Road spans 127 miles through pristine Alaska landscapes. The first 50 miles from Anchorage traverse along Turnagain Arm and the southern boundary of Chugach State Park . Here, roadside views include mountains, glaciers, and the occasional beluga whale surfacing.

Tourists can also take the scenic Alaska Railroad, which follows the same route from Anchorage to Seward. The Alaska Railroad also continues much farther north than Anchorage, ending its line in Fairbanks.

Besides a beautiful commute, Seward also has several appealing cultural attractions like the Alaska Sealife Center . The city is also a home base for exploring the Kenai Peninsula, including nearby landscapes like Exit Glacier . Departing from Kenai Peninsula, avid wildlife watchers head to the Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge , established to protect the Kodiak bear and other rare animals.

Official site: http://www.seward.com/

In 1938, the US Forest Services began a project to salvage, reconstruct, and create totem poles - a tradition that was dying out. Funds were used to hire carvers from among the older generations and abandoned totem poles were restored or recreated by these craftsmen. In the process of this work, they were able to pass on their skills to younger community members.

Fifteen poles were erected in Ketchikan's Totem Bight State Historic Park, now listed on the National Register of Historic Places . Also on the site is a recreated clan house from the early 19th century. There are more heritage totem poles and local details available at the town's Totem Heritage Center .

Address: Ketchikan Ranger Station, 9883 North Tongass Hwy, Ketchikan, Alaska

Official site: http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/totembgh.htm

Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park maintains lovely, restored buildings in the Skagway historic district to commemorate the 1897-98 Gold Rush. Visitors can attempt to hike the 33-mile-long Chilkoot Trail , which begins at Taiya River Bridge and pays homage to the path and struggles of past gold seekers. Visitors can also spend time exploring the on-site museum and visitor center.

The White Pass & Yukon Route Railway leaves from Skagway, climbing up to White Pass at a 2,865-foot elevation. The depot, one of Alaska's oldest, houses the visitor center.

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/klgo/index.htm

Ketchikan is a wild city bordering Tongass National Forest and facing the famous Inside Passage. The city is perhaps best known for its many Native American totem poles throughout the town and at places like Totem Bight State Historical Park . But it's also a city surrounded by dense, unaltered Alaska landscapes.

A lush temperate rainforest defines much of the natural landscape around Ketchikan. This includes rushing waterways, miles of verdant mountainsides, and an array of weather conditions that often require boots. One of the easiest ways to experience this dense environment is with a guided tour at the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary.

Kawanti Adventures oversees the 40 acres of this forest sanctuary just outside of town and offers guided tours. These approximately three-hour tours go beyond the usual hiking experience and include a narrative guide with interesting tidbits about the local history and culture. These tours also include stops at interpretive exhibits, like a historic sawmill and totem park.

From the snowy winter months to the more temperate summer months, each one of Alaska's unique seasons has its own particular draw. But the best time to visit Alaska is between mid-June and mid-August . If you wanted to push it a bit on either end of that span, most tourist resorts, tours, and cruises begin operations mid-May and end mid-September, so you'll find some good weather then as well - it just won't be as reliable.

The high tourist season, which runs from June to August , is when most attractions and parks open up to the public. If you have an Alaskan bucket list - such as wildlife viewing in Denali National Park or witnessing the salmon runs - this is the best time to visit Alaska.

Tip: Even if you visit during the summer months, weather systems can blow in on a moment's notice, so be prepared to dress in layers and have a raincoat handy. With that said, summer temperatures can also reach highs of 100 degrees Fahrenheit, so be sure to pack hot-weather clothing as well.

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18 Top Things to Do in Alaska

Visit the 49th state for unforgettable scenery and adventure.

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Experience the otherworldly beauty of Alaska on your next getaway.

The vast wilderness, spectacular landscapes and spirit of adventure make Alaska a once-in-a-lifetime destination for many travelers. As the largest state in the U.S., spanning more than half a million square miles and home to around half of the entire country's coastline, Alaska has a lot of territory to cover, but much of it is remote – and only accessible by boat or plane.

If you're ready to plan a visit to one of the most beautiful and pristine places on Earth, check out the top things to do and places to see during your trip to the Great Land, and let Alaska capture your heart forever.

Alaska boasts the only state capital in the U.S. with no road access, since Juneau is reachable only by airplane or boat. Regarded as one of the state's most beautiful cities, Juneau is a top destination for cruise ships in Alaska during the warmer months from late spring to early fall. You'll also find many fishing boats and floatplanes along the city's bustling waterfront. The compact downtown area sits nestled between Mount Roberts, Mount Juneau and the Gastineau Channel. Admire an eclectic mix of architecture as you walk the narrow streets: Just a block from the waterfront, some of the buildings lining historic South Franklin Street date back to the early 1900s and Juneau's gold-mining days. This lively street is home to bars, restaurants and gift shops. Visitors can also take time to explore the Alaska State Museum while in this part of Juneau to learn about natural history and Alaska Native cultures.

After exploring downtown, head out on a whale-watching excursion to glimpse humpback whales – many tour operators guarantee a sighting – and potentially also orcas, sea lions, seals, bald eagles or black bears. You can also go hiking on one of the town's many trails, which can take you to the face of a glacier, above tree level or to the top of the Mount Roberts Tramway . Once at the summit, travelers can enjoy lunch with a view at Timberline Bar & Grill before riding the tramway back into town.

Juneau has several other museums and nearby attractions, including the Sealaska Heritage Institute, Juneau Douglas City Museum, the Macaulay Salmon Hatchery and the Eaglecrest Ski Area in the winter months. The city sits around 10 miles from the massive Mendenhall Glacier , making it one of the most accessible glaciers in the state. You can explore on your own by foot or opt for a guided tour to try kayaking, glacier trekking or experiencing the area by helicopter. Visitors say the glacier is easy to reach and the views are breathtaking.

See more of Juneau: Things to Do | Hotels

Denali National Park and Preserve

Established in 1917 as a national park, Denali National Park and Preserve is home to 6 million acres of pristine wilderness – as well as the highest peak in North America, Mount Denali. The park is open year-round, but the summer season provides the easiest access and the most visitor services.

Tourists can take a narrated or non-narrated bus tour from mid-May to mid-September, boarding from either the park entrance or outside a nearby hotel such as the McKinley Chalet Resort. One scenic road runs almost 100 miles into the park, but buses will only be able to travel as far as mile 43 through at least the 2024 season because of construction. Private cars are permitted to drive just 15 miles into Denali in summer or up to 30 miles at other times of year if weather allows. For unrivaled access to the Denali wilderness and wildlife even amid the road closure, reserve a cabin stay at one of the remote lodges in the park: The Denali Backcountry Lodge collects guests by helicopter, while Camp Denali, located at the end of Denali Park Road, is accessible via a small plane.

At the entrance to the park, visitors will find the Riley Creek Campground, the Murie Science and Learning Center, and the 14,000-square-foot Denali Visitor Center. Exhibits and a movie at the visitor center offer a glimpse into Denali's vast and spectacular scenery as well as the types of animals you'll see in the park. There's an estimated 37 species of mammals and 130 bird species in Denali, and you may see one or all of the "Big Five" animals: caribou, moose, wolves, Dall sheep and grizzly bears, which wander the open tundra. The more adventurous traveler can venture out into the wilderness for a true Alaska backcountry experience.

See: The Best Tourist Attraction in Every U.S. State.

Husky Homestead: Denali National Park

Located just outside of Denali National Park, Husky Homestead is owned and operated by the man who's recognized as the "Winningest Musher in the World." Jeff King has traveled more than 150,000 miles on a dog sled in the past 35 years; he's earned four championship titles for the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race and many first-place titles in other races across Alaska and North America. He was also inducted into the Iditarod Hall of Fame in 1999.

The summer Husky Homestead tour offers a glimpse into the rural Alaska lifestyle based on more than 40 years of outdoor adventure, traversing more than 1,100 miles of rugged terrain many times and living in Alaska's Interior. Visitors will also meet champion sled dogs and watch husky puppies in training. Tour-takers say this is a can't-miss experience – second only to visiting the national park. Travelers love being able to see and hold the husky puppies and say that King is passionate, entertaining and informative. In the winter months (January to March), you can learn the art of dog mushing and even book an eight-day personalized Iditarod experience curated by a true expert.

Kenai Peninsula

Known as "Alaska's Playground," the Kenai Peninsula extends 150 miles southwest from the Chugach Mountains south of Anchorage. This area, separated from the mainland by the Cook Inlet on the west and Prince William Sound on the east, abounds with opportunities for outdoor adventure spanning world-class fishing and river rafting to hiking, mountain biking, camping, wildlife viewing and photography, and more. The peninsula has 14 cities and towns, including better-known destinations such as Homer, Kenai and Seward. Most visitors arrive here via the Alaska Railroad or Seward Highway.

Top activities on the Kenai Peninsula include hiking the Exit Glacier area in the Kenai Fjords near Seward or kayaking through the coves of Kachemak Bay near Homer. Visitors to the Alaska SeaLife Center, one of the country's best zoos , can learn about the region's marine ecosystems, see puffins, harbor seals and octopus up close, and discover conservation efforts at the state's only permanent marine mammal rescue and rehabilitation facility. Anglers won't want to miss an opportunity to catch salmon on the Kenai River. If you're into sport fishing, you can launch off the beach in Anchor Point headed for Cook's Inlet from May to September in search of big halibut, salmon and other species of sport fish. While at Anchor Point, excursions are available for bear viewing, flightseeing, dog-sledding and more. You can also go whale watching and look for other marine life at Kenai Fjords National Park – and don't miss a visit to the 2 million-acre Kenai National Wildlife Refuge, where you may also catch a glimpse of the local wildlife.

Read: The Best Alaska Tours

Fairbanks is known as the "Golden Heart of Alaska" and one of the top places in the world to view the northern lights : Aurora chasers may want to visit the city during the aurora borealis season between Aug. 21 and April 21. But there's much more to do in and around town beyond chasing the dancing lights at night in the winter. Fairbanks is centrally located in Alaska's interior, making it the perfect year-round basecamp to explore the Arctic Circle to the north and Denali National Park to the south. The park is a little more than 100 miles away; you can drive, book a ride in a van or hop aboard Alaska Railroad's Denali Star Train every morning during the summer to reach Denali from Fairbanks.

"Midnight sun season" (from mid-April to mid-August) brings endless sunshine to the city and opportunities to explore round-the-clock activities such as hiking, running and golfing. During regular daylight hours, visitors can take a three-hour guided sightseeing cruise with Riverboat Discovery along the Chena River or take a trip back in time by panning for gold in the Tanana Valley at Gold Dredge 8. You also won't want to miss the University of Alaska Museum of the North , featuring exhibits on Alaska's diverse cultures, wildlife and natural wonders; the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum is another top-rated attraction in town. Fairbanks is also a winter wonderland with dog-sledding, snowshoeing, skiing, curling, ice hockey, ice fishing and more. If you're visiting in February or March, bundle up to attend the World Ice Art Championships, where competitors from around the world display impressive ice sculptures.

See more of Fairbanks:  Things to Do  |  Hotels

See the northern lights

Alaska is regarded as one of the best places on Earth to see the aurora borealis, so it's no surprise that people come from all over the world to witness this natural phenomenon during the aurora season between August and April. Fairbanks is one of the top locales in the state to view the show because of its location; accessibility; and options for lodging, dining and other attractions. In addition, many northern lights tours depart from town. While you can see the lights almost anywhere in the state, experts advise that the best viewing opportunities are away from light pollution on a clear night – and preferably in the interior or Arctic regions of the state.

A wide array of guided tours offer just one evening of aurora chasing, or you can opt for multiday adventures that include winter activities like dog-sledding and snowmobiling. Travelers can also fly into remote areas above the Arctic Circle via bush plane and spend several evenings in towns like Coldfoot or Wiseman. One top-notch lodging option for aurora chasers is Borealis Basecamp, a glamping destination about 30 miles north of Fairbanks that boasts glass-domed igloos – perfect for viewing the vibrant night sky from the comforts of your warm, cozy bed.

Read: How to See the Northern Lights in Alaska

Chena Hot Springs Resort

Situated approximately 60 miles northeast of Fairbanks, Chena Hot Springs Resort is renowned for its natural hot springs, outdoor rock lake, year-round Aurora Ice Museum and excellent aurora-viewing opportunities. Powered by renewable geothermal energy, the facility is also the most accessible – and most developed – hot springs resort in the state's interior. The property offers an array of packages and activities for daytrips, overnight stays and adventure activities. Guests can tour the Chena kennel, a working dog-mushing kennel with more than 50 huskies. You can also book an aurora-viewing tour, go on a dog-training excursion or venture out on the property by horseback, depending on the season you visit. For the more adventurous traveler, book an excursion by all-terrain vehicle, dog sled or snowmobile – and, for an overnight stay, you can even sleep in a yurt.

Address: 17600 Chena Hot Springs Road, Fairbanks, AK 99712

Aurora Ice Museum: Chena Hot Springs Resort

Located at Chena Hot Springs Resort – and created from more than 1,000 tons of ice and snow sourced from the property – Aurora Ice Museum boasts the world's largest year-round ice environment. The museum, completed in 2015, keeps temperatures at a chilly 25 degrees Fahrenheit even in the summer months, thanks to a unique patented absorption chiller. Pick up a parka and join in a 45-minute tour where you'll get a brief history of the building and learn the story behind the ice sculptures. There's also free time to snap a few Instagram shots and sip an appletini in an ice glass at the ice bar. Visitors to the museum say it's an interesting and fun experience, and that they enjoy seeing all the sculptures.

Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve

One of the highlights of an Inside Passage cruise to Alaska is visiting Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. The park's 3.3 million acres are part of a 25 million-acre World Heritage Site, one of the largest protected areas in the world. This boundless landscape includes rugged coastlines, deep fjords, majestic snowcapped mountains, icy blue glaciers and a verdant rainforest. With almost 20% of the park made up of water, it's also a marine sanctuary, home to an abundance of humpback whales, orcas, harbor seals, Steller sea lions and porpoises.

If you're visiting by cruise ship – as 90% of the visitors to the park do – you may also see brown or black bears, moose, wolves, Sitka black-tail deer, mountain goats or bald eagles soaring overhead. Be sure to step outside on your veranda or the ship's bow to take in the park's stillness, with occasional sounds from wildlife in the distance or eerily blue ice calving as the chunks break off into the glacial waters.

If you're traveling alone, you can access the park via the nearby village of Gustavus, which offers several options for lodging. Gustavus is reachable by air taxi from Juneau – or you can take the Alaska Marine Highway System ferry to reach the village. Tours to Glacier Bay are available out of Gustavus; excursions also start at the park headquarters at Bartlett Cove. Here you'll find 10 miles of maintained hiking trails and a lodge and restaurant. Venture out on a guided kayak tour or travel 130 miles into the park on a full-day boat tour to view the tidewater glaciers, wildlife and extraordinary beauty of Glacier Bay. Visitors enjoy the park ranger's narrative while on board their ship and say the park is unbelievably breathtaking.

Embark on an Alaska cruise

Taking an Alaska cruise is a bucket list trip for many people – and it's easy to understand why. Cruising is a convenient way to see multiple destinations and travel to remote places like Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. More adventures await than you can imagine, from taking a ride on the White Pass & Yukon Route railroad to helicopter and dog-sledding tours. You can also go fishing, crabbing or kayaking; hike in the Tongass National Forest; venture out on a wilderness safari; chase the northern lights; and much more.

Most mainstream and luxury cruise lines offer several itineraries in Alaska. Smaller and expedition-style ships also sail Alaska's waterways, such as Lindblad Expeditions, UnCruise Adventures and Alaskan-owned Alaska Dream Cruises. To make the most of your time – and to see as much as you can while visiting the Far North – combine a land and sea tour. Cruise lines like Princess Cruises , Holland America Line , Norwegian Cruise Line , Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean International offer cruisetours that extend your time in Alaska. These add-on options feature multiday land, bus and rail tours to destinations not reachable by ship.

Read: Alaska Cruise Packing List

Arctic Circle

Many visitors to Fairbanks want to take a self-guided road trip along the 198-mile stretch of the Dalton Highway to cross over the Arctic Circle. However, this journey is only recommended if you are an experienced driver and have a vehicle equipped for the rugged terrain, remote wilderness, and the gravel and dirt road, especially in the winter. Most car rental companies do not allow their cars on the Dalton Highway. Still, you can rent from specific companies such as Arctic Outfitters, Alaska 4x4 Rentals, Alaska Overlander or Alaska Auto Rental. Travelers should also know that there's no cellphone coverage or Wi-Fi and only limited vehicle services on the Dalton Highway, so it may be best to leave the driving – or the flying – to a professional tour operator.

Multiple tour operators fly and drive to the Arctic, which is an unforgettable experience any time of the year. The Northern Alaska Tour Company offers a variety of air and land adventures. These trips include two- to five-night excursions to see the northern lights in Coldfoot, one of the best aurora-viewing locales in the world. During your extended stay in the Brooks Range and Coldfoot you may also see bears, and you can try your hand at dog mushing. You'll even receive an official Arctic Circle Adventure Certificate. Travelers say the tours, guides and pilots with Northern Alaska Tour Company are excellent, providing an incredible experience in this beautiful and wild part of Alaska.

Situated between the peaks of the Chugach Mountains and the Cook Inlet, Anchorage is Alaska's largest city and its most urban destination. Yet it's still not far from the wilderness areas and outdoor adventure the state is known for. The city is home to a great deal of outdoor recreation, including road and mountain biking, hiking, running, water sports and more. The city also boasts more than 200 municipal parks and 120-plus miles of paved trails. On a clear day, from the 1,400 forested acres of Kincaid Park you may be able to catch a glimpse of Mount Susitna over the inlet and see spectacular sunsets in the evening. The 495,000-acre Chugach State Park – the fourth-largest state park in the U.S. – is a wilderness area adjacent to much of Anchorage. From here, you can head out on many trailheads, including one of the most popular hikes to Flattop Mountain. At the summit, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views overlooking the Chugach and the Alaska mountain ranges, Cook Inlet, and the city.

Anchorage also boasts many cultural attractions, including the state's largest museum, the newly renovated Anchorage Museum . You also won't want to miss the Alaska Native Heritage Center and the Alaska Aviation Museum , which sits along the south shore of the world's busiest floatplane lake, Lake Hood. This museum pays homage to Alaska's bush plane pilots and covers the early history of Alaska Airlines. The Alaska Zoo is another top attraction: This facility is the only zoo in North America that focuses on animals from the northern and Arctic regions and native Alaska species such as moose, wolves, wolverines, caribou and Dall sheep. You'll also find a thriving culinary scene in Anchorage featuring fresh local seafood and produce – and a burgeoning brewery industry with local beer, spirits, cider and mead.

See more of Anchorage: Things to Do | Hotels

Anchorage Museum

Chuck Choi | Courtesy of Anchorage Museum

As one of Alaska's most popular attractions, this four-story museum tells the story of the region through its history, art, culture, science, and diverse political and social background. Impressive exhibits on Alaska Native cultures include more than 600 artifacts from the collections at the Smithsonian. In the Thomas Planetarium, you can even experience the northern lights as they dance across the clear night sky. Alongside permanent exhibits like the Smithsonian collection, the Anchorage Museum features traveling exhibits, special programs, live performances in music and dance, classes and workshops, and other special events throughout the year. Visitors call the museum carefully curated and the exhibits educational and informative. Some people take as many as five hours to view all four floors, so plan for a half-day to visit the museum. You can grab a snack at the Atrium Café if your visit extends past lunchtime.

Address: 625 C St., Anchorage, AK 99501

Alaska Native Heritage Center

The Alaska Native Heritage Center is a living cultural center in Anchorage that educates visitors and promotes the observance of Alaska's Indigenous traditions and culture. It's the only statewide education and cultural institution in Alaska focused on celebrating all the Indigenous peoples and their heritage, including the Iñupiaq, St. Lawrence Island Yupik, Athabascan, Eyak, Haida, Tsimshian, Tlingit, Unangax̂, Alutiiq (or Sugpiaq), Yup'ik and Cup'ik peoples. Visitors to ANHC can walk through life-size villages and view the permanent collections. You'll also have an immersive educational experience learning about 10,000 years of Alaska Native history through art, dance performances, demonstrations, exhibits, films, storytelling and more. Travelers say this is a must-see while in Anchorage: They comment that the visit is fascinating, and you'll get the most out of it if you can catch a performance or presentation, as they offer even more insight into the cultures of Alaska's Natives.

Address: 8800 Heritage Center Drive, Anchorage, AK 99504

Flightseeing

Flightseeing by bush plane or helicopter is one of the best ways to see and travel to many parts of the state. The least-visited national parks – and even the most popular ones – have remote destinations reachable only by plane or by boat. With a flightseeing tour, you can book excursions to fly over (or even onto) a glacier, view wildlife from above, follow the trail of the Iditarod or arrive at a remote destination like Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. These excursions can be as short as an hour or extend into a full day with kayaking, bear-viewing opportunities, dog-sledding and more. While the planes typically carry between two to eight people, helicopters only take a maximum of four passengers. Popular companies for these tours include Talkeetna Air Taxi, Rust's Flying Service & K2 Aviation, Temsco Helicopters, Wings Airways, NorthStar Helicopters, Alpine Air Alaska, Alaska Helicopter Tours, Smokey Bay Air and Emerald Air Service.

Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

Doug Lindstrand | Courtesy of Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

While most people would prefer to see animals in the wild – and in their natural habitat – wildlife conservation centers are essential in rescuing injured and orphaned animals, conducting research, and providing awareness to the public. Situated on 200 acres, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center in Girdwood is home to black and brown bears, moose, caribou, coyotes, wolves, musk ox and other Alaska animals. The center has also partnered with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game over the last 20 years on one of the world's most important conservation projects: returning the once-extinct wood bison to their native range in central Alaska. The herd of 130 was released into the wild in 2015 after a century-long absence.

Visitors can take the guided 90-minute "Walk on the Wild Side Tour" at the center, which is offered year-round and limited to 10 guests. You can also book a bear or moose encounter (in the summer season) to get up close and personal with the animals. Visitors appreciate the option to drive through the facility or take the walking tour, and say they enjoy seeing many of Alaska's native animals in one place.

Address: Mile 79, Seward Highway, Girdwood, AK 99587

Take a ride on the Alaska Railroad

The Alaska Railroad offers passengers almost 500 miles of scenery and landscapes and an iconic way to travel through south-central and interior Alaska. The line's summer train schedules pair with other activities in Alaska, such as a coastal glacier and wildlife-viewing cruise from Seward when you take the round-trip train from Anchorage. At the backcountry Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop – only accessible by train – passengers can go ice climbing, hiking or take a rafting trip on a glacial river.

Depending on the train and itinerary, other stops include Fairbanks, Denali National Park, Talkeetna, Girdwood, Seward, Whittier, Portage and Grandview. For an upscale onboard experience, passengers can choose GoldStar-level service on select trains and routes. This category of service includes glass-dome ceilings, full-service dining, a private bar, forward-facing seats, an outdoor viewing platform and narration during the ride. On weekends in the winter season, between mid-September and mid-May, the Aurora Winter Train travels northbound on a 12-hour rail journey, departing Saturday and returning Sunday. Passengers enjoy the snow-covered landscapes and views during the winter itinerary, with most calling the food and service excellent.

Hop on an escorted bus tour

Escorted bus tours are an attractive option to consider when visiting south-central and interior Alaska. The drivers are familiar with the road system, so you can sit back and relax without the stress of navigating long stretches of wilderness highways. The tour operators are also experts at coordinating your lodging, excursions, meals and much more. Some tours even combine bus and rail transportation – through an area known as the railbelt – offering the best of both methods of transportation since one may reach destinations the other can't access. Companies offering tour packages in the region include Alaska Tour & Travel, John Hall's Alaska and Gray Line Alaska. Tourgoers traveling with Alaska Tour & Travel say their journey was seamless and they had a wonderful adventure.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Alaska Shore Excursions
• The Best National Parks in the World
• Scenic Train Rides to Add to Your Bucket List
• The Top Travel Backpacks
• The Top Travel Packing Cubes

Tags: Travel , Alaska Vacations , Pacific Northwest Vacations , US Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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Must-see attractions in Alaska

Mendenhall Glacier

Going to Juneau and not seeing the Mendenhall is like visiting Rome and skipping the Colosseum. The most famous of Juneau’s ice floes, and the city’s most…

Arctic National Wildlife Refuge

The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge is a 30,625-sq-mile wilderness in Alaska’s northeast corner, straddling the eastern Brooks Range from the treeless…

Tongass National Forest

Southeast Alaska

Welcome to the largest national forest in the US, a tract of land almost the size of Ireland and significantly larger than adjacent Wrangell-St Elias…

Hubbard Glacier

Just 30 miles north of Yakutat is Hubbard Glacier, the largest tidewater glacier in North America. The 8-mile-wide frozen behemoth is easily Alaska’s most…

Anchorage Museum

This world-class facility is Anchorage’s cultural jewel. The West Wing, a four-story, shimmering, mirrored facade, adds 80,000 sq ft to what was already…

Alaska Native Heritage Center

If you can't travel to the Bush region to experience Native Alaska culture firsthand, visit this 26-acre center and see how humans survived – and thrived …

Alaska Sealife Center

A fitting legacy of the Exxon Valdez oil-spill settlement, this $56-million marine research center is more than just one of Alaska’s finest attractions…

University of Alaska Museum of the North

In an architecturally abstract, igloo- and aurora-inspired edifice sits one of Alaska’s finest museums, with artifact-rich exhibits on the geology,…

Saxman Native Village & Totem Park

On South Tongass Hwy, 2.5 miles south of Ketchikan, is this incorporated Tlingit village of 475 residents. It's best known for Saxman Totem Park, which…

Wrangell Museum

This impressive museum is what the colorful history and characters of Wrangell deserve. As you stroll through the many rooms, an audio narration…

Totem Heritage Center

For a crash course in Southeast Alaska's impressive totem art look no further than the Totem Heritage Center, where old poles brought from deserted…

Museum of the Aleutians

Aleutian Islands

This small but impressive museum is one of the best native cultural centers in Alaska. It relives the Aleutian story from prehistory through the Russian…

Aleutian WWII National Historic Area

In 1996 Congress created this 134-acre national historic area to commemorate the bloody events of WWII that took place on the Aleutian Islands. Most of…

Denali National Park & Preserve

What makes 20,310ft Denali (formerly Mt McKinley) one of the world’s great scenic mountains is the sheer independent rise of its bulk. Denali begins at a…

Gates of the Arctic National Park & Preserve

Standing in the middle of this park's eight million acres of uninhabited mountains and tundra, you could be forgiven for assuming a woolly mammoth was…

Atigun Pass

At 4739ft, the Atigun Pass is the only road pass through the Brooks Range. We'd call it 'dramatic,' but that's sort of like calling the Sahara sandy; the…

Treadwell Mine Historical Trail

It's hard to envisage today, but the Treadwell mine on Douglas Island was once the largest gold mine in the world, set up like a minitown with its own…

Mt Roberts Tramway

As far as cable cars go, this tramway is rather expensive for a five-minute ride. But from a marketing point of view its location couldn’t be better. It…

Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge

Birds have been migrating through this idyllic little stretch of farmland for millennia, and when the local dairy finally shut its doors, the community…

Salmon Glacier

Twenty miles north of Hyder and back inside Canada lies the fifth-largest glacier in Canada (and the largest in the world accessible by road). The old…

Shrine of St Thérèse

Get ready for some spiritual enlightenment. The Shrine of St Thérèse is a natural stone chapel on a beautifully wooded island connected to the shore by a…

Kincaid Park

At the western ‘nose’ of the peninsula and southern terminus of the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is this beloved 1400-acre park populated by…

The unique wildlife of the Arctic is on display at this zoo, the only one in North America that specializes in northern animals, including snow leopards,…

Nugget Falls

A spectacular sight at Mendenhall Glacier is this waterfall, a mini-Niagara (in season) caused by Nugget Creek diving off a hanging valley into Mendenhall…

Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center

This mini-museum holds ranger talks, shows an 11-minute film and displays exhibits relating to the glacier and its formation. There are huge panoramic…

Oscar Anderson House

Housed in the city’s oldest wooden-framed home, this little museum overlooks the delightful Elderberry Park. Anderson was the 18th American settler to set…

Totem Bight State Park

Ten miles north of downtown Ketchikan is this seaside park that contains 14 restored totem poles, a colorful community house and a viewing deck…

Klawock Totem Park

Of the three totem parks on POW, the Klawock Totem Park is by far the most impressive and obviously a great source of community pride. Situated on a hill…

End of the Road

The northernmost extremity of the US (though not, as locals sometimes claim, North America) is Point Barrow, but it's tough to get to this narrow strip of…

Polychrome Pass Overlook

This scenic area, at 3500ft, has views of the Toklat River to the south. The pass, which is a regular stop on Denali tour- and shuttle-bus routes, gets…

Totem Historic District – Kasaan

This is one of the great Haida cultural centers in Alaska. It's in Kasaan, one of only two Haida villages in the state, and, since 2002, has been listed…

Eielson Visitor Center

Eielson is the most common turning-around point for day trippers taking the shuttle or tour buses into the park. This remote outpost is built directly…

Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center

There are a few contenders for 'best visitor center in Alaska' but this one, an ingenious mix of museum, info point and cultural center, has to be in the…

Iñupiat Heritage Center

This 24,000-sq-ft facility houses a museum, gift shop and a large multipurpose room where short traditional dancing-and-drumming performances take place…

Far North Bicentennial Park

Comprising 4000 acres of forest and muskeg in east central Anchorage, this park features 20 miles of trails. In the center of the park is the Bureau of…

Last Chance Mining Museum

Amble out to the end of Basin Rd, a beautiful 1-mile walk from the north end of Gastineau Ave, to the former Alaska-Juneau Gold Mining Company complex. It…

Southeast Alaska Discovery Center

Three large totems greet you in the lobby of this center run by the National Park Service (NPS), while a school of silver salmon suspended from the…

Alaska State Museum

Demolished and rebuilt in a snazzy new $140-million complex in 2016, the result is impressive. Sometimes called SLAM (State Library, Archives and Museum),…

Creek Street

Departing from Stedman St is Creek St (a boardwalk built over Ketchikan Creek on pilings), a history book of misshapen wood-paneled houses painted in…

Toklat River Contact Station

This station, situated at the crossing over the eponymous river, is one of the major stops on both the Denali shuttle route and Denali bus tours. On site,…

More destinations you need to see

Top Alaska Attractions

From Stellar sea lions to Alaska museums to a gold mining district.

• Things to Do

Most Popular

• Alaska SeaLife Center

Anchorage Museum

• Riverboat Discovery Fairbanks

Gold Dredge 8 Fairbanks

Activity Finder

Places like Denali National Park are so grand that they have a way of eclipsing everything around them, but there are still many smaller attractions in Alaska worthy of a visit. These attractions often showcase Alaska's wildlife, natural and human history, and diverse indigenous cultures.

On the shore of Resurrection Bay in Seward is the Alaska SeaLife Center , Alaska's only marine education, research, and rehabilitation facility. Here visitors walk through a myriad of exhibits showcasing the region's diverse marine wildlife, including salmon tanks, a puffin aviary, and Stellar sea lion habitat. Visitors can see these animals up close and learn more about them on special animal encounter experiences and behind the scenes tours. To see more of Alaska's tertiary animals, you can visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center near Portage. It's even more fun with a guide on the Spencer Glacier Bears, Train & Icebergs tour out of Anchorage.

In Anchorage, two distinctive attractions are worth a visit, the Anchorage Museum and the Alaska Native Heritage Center. At the museum, visitors can explore many aspects of Alaska life, from the vivid mountain artwork of Sydney Lawrence, to cultural displays and polar exhibits. The museum is in downtown Anchorage within walking distance of several area hotels . At the Alaska Native Heritage Center, several indigenous Alaskan cultures are represented in life-size outdoor exhibits with Alaskan Native hosts.

The northern Alaska destination of Fairbanks is host to many Alaska attractions, several of which showcase the distinctive culture and pastimes of the Last Frontier. You can visit the Gold Dredge 8 mining district to see gold mining equipment, some of it a century old, still at work. Also a century old are the stately sternwheelers paddling up and down the Chena River on riverboat cruises .

Farther afield, Chena Hot Springs draws visitors from around the world to its geothermally heated waters. The artfully landscaped resort property is also home to the world's largest year-round indoor ice building. It is open for daily tours.

Curious about other things to do in Alaska? Take a look at some of the best things to do in Alaska by category and destination .

Alaska SeaLife Center Seward

Unlock the mysteries of Alaska's rich and diverse marine ecosystem at this renowned education, research, and wildlife rehabilitation facility. Learn More >

One of the 10 most visited attractions in the state, this world-class museum is located in the heart of Alaska's busiest city. Learn More >

Riverboat Discovery Cruise Fairbanks

Ride on a historic sternwheeler on this fully narrated three-hour tour featuring floatplane and sled dog demonstrations and an Athabascan village walk. Learn More >

Spencer Glacier Bears, Trains & Icebergs

Do it all in a day (ride the train, see Alaskan wildlife, raft alongside icebergs) on this roundtrip tour out of Anchorage. Learn More >

A two-hour exploration of Alaska's rich mining history featuring a short train ride, visit to a dredge, and chance to pan for gold. Learn More >

Chena Hot Springs & Ice Museum Tour

Take a seven-hour guided trip to two of Fairbanks' most popular destinations, Chena Hot Springs and Aurora Ice Museum. Learn More >

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10 best things to do in Alaska

From shopping for Indigenous-made goods to forest bathing in a key ecosystem, here are the top things to do in the 49th state.

Alaska’s more than 663,000 square miles of land and 66,000 miles of shoreline offer an almost embarrassing abundance of idyllic landscapes and bucket list experiences. From spotting whales and bears to discovering Indigenous-made art, here are the best ways to delve into the northernmost state in the U.S.

Go off-grid in a rustic cabin

Somewhere between tent camping and glamping sits one of Alaska’s lesser known ways to overnight in the great outdoors— public use cabins , available on Recreation.gov . A good option is Priest Rock , located on a slough on the shores of Lake Clark, a stop for migratory birds. From Anchorage, take a charter flight to Port Alsworth, where guide services provide the last leg by boat. (You can also rent kayaks to take along.)

“The cabin is so calming [with] beautiful views of Lake Clark and up into Currant Creek Valley,” says Beth Hill, co-owner of Tulchina Adventures , a Port Alsworth-based guide service. She adds that early morning and late evening are when “bear, lynx, and otters tend to be more active.”

Catch the northern lights

Summer may be peak season for traveling to Alaska, but September through March is when aurora borealis typically swirls across clear, dark skies. Photographing them is a science all its own. Tour companies like Fairbanks Aurora Tours lead photo-focused trips just outside the Interior city. Take a deep dive into the science behind auroras at the Geophysical Institute in Fairbanks, which runs the Aurora Forecast website . For detailed forecasts, visit the NOAA site or keep tabs with the My Aurora Forecast app .

In Fairbanks, locals head to Creamer’s Field   for aurora viewing. South of Fairbanks near Denali National Park , the town of Healy has good viewing chances. Year-round lodgings are limited near the park but EarthSong Lodge in Healy remains open and, for an extra thrill, offers dog sledding tours.

( Here’s how to photograph northern lights .)

Explore the intertidal zone

Alaska offers plenty of intertidal zones for exploring a wealth of marine life. Purple and red sea stars cling to rocks as sandpipers hunt for insect larvae and clams along the water’s edge. In tide pools, look for the patterned plated shells of chitons (a group of oval mollusks) and anemones whose elegant tentacles stretch to catch prey. Don a wetsuit and dive with Snorkel Alaska to spot sea cucumbers and swim through a bull kelp forest in the cold, clear waters off Mountain Point, five miles outside Ketchikan.

Shop Indigenous-made for a good cause

Bracelets engraved with the flowing designs of a Tlingit silversmith. A basket handwoven from local grasses. Beaver mittens decorated with colorful beads depicting salmonberries. With so many cultures, the variety of art created around the state seems endless. You can find beautifully treasures at the Craft Shop at the Alaska Native Medical Center in Anchorage. The artists receive the bulk of the profits from sales—a rarity—with the balance used to support patient services and scholarships.

See bears without the crowds

Thanks to daily permit and guide service limits, there’s no waiting for space on the viewing deck at Anan Wildlife Observatory Site , a U.S. Forest Service site 30 miles southeast of Wrangell in the Tongass National Forest . Black and brown bears fish here for one of the largest runs of humpback salmon (a.k.a. “humpys” or “pinks”) in the region. After arriving via small boat or floatplane, take a half-mile hike through an old-growth forest to the viewing platform. It’s not unusual to see bears along the way. Sign on for a guided tour out of Wrangell with Alaska Charters and Adventures or Alaska Waters .

( These are the 10 best U.S. national parks to see wildlife .)

Dine on global cuisine in Anchorage

Trying local dishes like muktuk (small pieces of whale blubber and skin) or akutaq (a mix of fats, sugar, berries, and/or region-specific meat) requires an invitation to a private home, since the ingredients in many Indigenous foods cannot be legally sold or served in restaurants. But Alaska is global, especially in Anchorage’s Mountain View neighborhood, which has one of the most diverse census tracts in the country. Try doro tibs , a spicy Ethiopian chicken dish, at Queen of Sheba ,   crispy Filipino   lumpia at AJ’s Ohana ,   or buttery egg tarts at Hong Kong Spirit Food .

Stroll one of America’s moodiest beaches

With three volcanoes—Augustine, Iliamna, and Redoubt—70 miles across the bay, Homer’s Bishops Beach has one of the best views in Alaska. Don a sweater and rubber boots to stroll this atmospheric shoreline, where wind and thick clouds can swirl in quickly, kicking up whitecaps on the water. Look for eagles swooping down to catch a meal and flocks of western sandpipers zipping along the waterline.

After, warm up with coffee and a sweet treat at Two Sisters Bakery before walking a few blocks over to Bunnell Street Arts Center ,   known for its innovative programming and shows.

Go beyond forest bathing in a key ecosystem

Thick with spruce trees, bogs, and spongy tundra, boreal forests stretch across more than 60 percent of Alaska. At Running Reindeer Ranch in Fairbanks, naturalist Jane Atkinson leads walks in the forest with her herd of reindeer. Along the way, she offers deep insight into this key ecosystem, from the soil to the treetops. Visitors also learn about the forest through the reindeers’ perspective, as they interact with the environment.

( You’ve heard of forest bathing. Now try forest therapy .)

Drive to Alaska’s easternmost town—through Canada

Located in Southeast, or the Panhandle, Hyder is a signature Alaskan geographical oddity—it’s both the state’s easternmost and southernmost town. Get there by driving through Canada, a spectacular journey that includes a swath of Glacier Highway, where the ice sheets seem to tumble from mountains on either side of the road. In Hyder, you can watch bears fish the local waters, then head to The Bus for your own seafood meal, including some of the tastiest fried halibut and chips in the state.

Get up close to glaciers

It’s hard to understand how massive tidewater glaciers are until you’re facing one from the deck of a boat. Watching these massive frozen cliffs calve ice into the sea can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Due to climate change, Alaska’s famed glaciers are retreating at an accelerated rate. See them with responsible local operators, like Major Marine Tours out of Seward and Stan Stephens Glacier & Wildlife Cruises in Valdez. Both are known for providing excellent nature narration and committing to the local community and the environment.

( For more tips on what to do in Alaska, see our Explorer’s Guide .)

Related Topics

• BACKCOUNTRY CAMPING
• MARINE BIODIVERSITY

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53 Fun Things To Do & Places To Visit In Alaska

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Last updated: May 23, 2024

People tend to think of Alaska as a cold, remote place, but the truth is that it’s teeming with life and buzzing with activity.

For every snow-covered mountain, there are dozens of beaches, fjords, glaciers, geysers and caves.

For every icy rock in the middle of nowhere, there are also bars, restaurants, malls, museums and movie theaters.

To be fair, Alaska’s wilderness is a sight to behold.

Whether you’re interested in chasing the northern lights or ice-climbing up cliffs and canyons, the wide open spaces will call to your sense of adventure.

It’s just important to know that Alaska isn’t only a place for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

You can go drinking and dancing; you can hit up world-class art museums and music festivals; you can learn more about the indigenous tribes that carved petroglyphs into the foundations of modern society.

Alaska isn’t just a winter destination, either.

Summertime offers everything from parasailing on the lakes to hiking across mountain passes filled with wildflowers!

Long story short, there’s more to “The Land of the Midnight Sun” than what meets the eye.

Let’s talk about some amazing things to do in Alaska!

Table of Contents

1. Museum of the North

Museum of the North

If you don’t know where to start with your trip to Alaska, start with the Museum of the North .

It’s located on the Fairbanks campus of the University of Alaska, and it showcases more than 2,000 years of art, culture, history, flora and fauna from the region.

Exhibits include nature photography, full-size bison mummies, and gold and mineral collections from the days of the Klondike Gold Rush.

The artwork ranges from old Eskimo carvings to contemporary paintings and portraits from the indigenous people of Alaska.

There’s even a light and sound display that mimics the aurora borealis of the night sky!

There’s something for everyone at the Museum of the North, especially those who are genuinely interested in learning more about Alaska.

It’ll be a great way to start your journey into this vast, beautiful and mysterious terrain.

Address: 1962 Yukon Dr, Fairbanks, AK 99775, United States

2. White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad

White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad

One of the most fun things to do in Alaska is a train ride on the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad .

Not only will it take you past stunning natural scenery in the form of gorges, glaciers, waterfalls, mountains and forests, but it also has historic significance as a piece of infrastructure from the days of the Klondike Gold Rush.

Originally built in 1898, this railroad was designed to take gold miners from Alaska to Canada.

It reaches heights of more than 3,000 feet along its curving tracks that are built right into the mountainside.

Another charming feature of the train is its vintage design that remains unchanged from the days of the Gold Rush.

With its wide windows and ornate, old-fashioned details, your parlor car will look just like it did back in the day.

If you’re looking for cool stuff to do in Alaska, it doesn’t get more memorable than a train ride through the mountains with the spirit of a gold miner.

Address: 201 2nd Ave, Skagway, AK 99840, United States

3. Denali National Park and Preserve

Denali National Park and Preserve

Covering more than six million acres, Denali National Park and Preserve is one of the top destinations of Alaska.

It stretches across an enormous range of forests, lakes, rivers, mountains, glaciers and sand dunes, and it offers a staggering amount of activities for everyone from young kids to experienced outdoorsmen.

Are you eager to experience nature?

Go hiking, biking, camping or climbing among the tall trees and rushing rivers.

Do you prefer your fun to be a little more air-conditioned?

Take a scenic drive through the landscapes or sign up for a “flightseeing” trip where you’ll soar over the mountains from a helicopter.

Other options include everything from going on a scavenger hunt with the kids to visiting a sled dog kennel and watching a musher demonstration.

There’s no lack of things to see and do in Denali National Park and Preserve.

You could spend your entire vacation here and still want to come back for more!

Address: Parks Hwy, Denali National Park and Preserve, AK, United States

4. Juneau Whale Watch

Juneau Whale Watch

Juneau is one of the most famous places in Alaska, but its best destinations aren’t the bars and clubs of downtown.

That honor belongs to the remote and rugged landscapes of the outlying ocean where you can experience a Juneau Whale Watch .

The tours take between 3 – 5 hours and involve climbing aboard a ship and heading out so far on the water that you can’t even see the city anymore.

Once whales are spotted, the captain will usually cut the engine so that the creatures will get curious and swim right up to the starboard.

You can enjoy the experience either on deck or from the comfort of a heated cabin.

You haven’t lived until you’ve seen a humpback whale slowly emerging from the depths of the ocean to come and greet you.

It’s one of the most amazing things that you can experience in Alaska, so book a tour with Juneau Whale Watch and get ready to make some crazy memories during your trip.

Address: 492 S Franklin St, Juneau, AK 99801, United States

5. Hubbard Glacier

Hubbard Glacier

Located in the Wrangell–St. Elias National Park and Preserve, the Hubbard Glacier is more than seven miles long, and it regularly sloughs off icebergs that are as tall as 10-story buildings.

It’s an absolutely massive landmark that juts out of the water like something equally beautiful and terrifying.

Visitors to the glacier are only allowed to get semi-close; its choppy waters prevent boats from being able to safely navigate close proximity.

It’s so big, however, that you’ll see it looming for ages before you actually reach it.

Your pictures will also turn out wonderfully since its white snow and turquoise ice are framed by an open expanse of bright blue sky.

The Hubbard Glacier is one of the most well-known of Alaska’s attractions.

Literally, it’s so large that you can’t miss it.

Book a tour to see its majesty for yourself!

Address: Alaska, United States

6. Anchorage Market

Anchorage Market

Straddling the line between “flea market” and “farmer’s market,” the Anchorage Market is a labyrinth of food, florals, arts, crafts and clothes.

Its vendors change daily, so you might see 80 stalls one morning and 200 stalls the next.

It’s very easy to get lost, and you never know what will be around the next corner.

You might stumble across a pyramid of fresh produce; you might find yourself shimmying past racks of jewelry or following your nose to ice cream trucks or sandwich stands.

Doesn’t that sound like a blast?

Running from May to September, the Anchorage Market is a staple of its city, and it’s also one of the most vibrant places to visit in Alaska.

If you’ll be in the state at the right time of year, it’s definitely worth a look!

Address: 225 E St, Anchorage, AK 99501, United States

7. Dr. Seuss House

If you’re looking for quirky places to go, check out the Dr. Seuss House.

You can’t miss it: Its tallest tower reaches 185 feet, and each of its floors is stacked on the next in an odd, disjointed and tumble-style stack.

An interesting fact about the Dr. Seuss House is that it has nothing to do with Dr. Seuss at all.

Its official name is the Goose Creek Tower, and it was built by a local man just for fun.

However, it’s easy to see why locals think of The Cat in the Hat whenever they gaze at its colorful and whimsical architecture.

The Dr. Seuss House is a landmark like none other, and it’ll serve as a cool and unique vacation destination for anyone who likes going off the beaten path and discovering new things.

Address: 46370 S Caston Way, Talkeetna, AK 99676, United States

8. Moose’s Tooth

Moose’s Tooth

For great eats in Alaska, it doesn’t get more local than the Moose’s Tooth .

This warm little restaurant is a chance to escape winter’s chill while also enjoying stick-to-your-ribs fare that you can only find in the arctic north.

For example, have you ever had moose meat?

Have you ever tried reindeer as a pizza topping?

You might also be interested in bull steaks, moose ranch salads or sockeye salmon spreads on bread.

For dessert, ask for Eskimo ice cream or aqutak, which is an Alaskan specialty whipped up with snow, fat, wild berries and seal oil.

Wash it all down with a dark handcrafted beer.

Moose’s Tooth is an iconic destination in the Arctic Circle.

Its menu is unique; its atmosphere is fun and inviting.

If you’ll be in the area, it’s worth loosening your belt, grabbing a seat and trying something new.

Address: 3300 Old Seward Hwy, Anchorage, AK 99503, United States

9. Kenai Beach

Kenai Beach ( Amy Meredith / flickr )

Alaska might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think about tropical getaways, but the land isn’t covered in snow all of the time.

It has summers just like anywhere else, and during those summers, you’ll want a nice sandy beach to help you cool off.

Kenai Beach is located in Kenai, Alaska, and it’s a popular destination for swimming, fishing, camping, kiting and more.

Fishing is especially popular during the month of July when the salmon are out; it’s quite common to see crowds of people with dip nets.

There are plenty of amenities at the beach to keep you comfortable, and it also isn’t far from other conveniences in the greater city of Kenai.

If you’re wondering what to do during an Alaskan summer, consider a trip to Kenai Beach.

You’ll be able to engage in all sorts of fun, sun-soaked activities, and you’ll also get to confuse people when you tell them about your tropical beach vacation in Alaska.

Address: 1112 Kenai Ave, Kenai, AK 99611, United States

10. Kennicott Ghost Town

Kennicott Ghost Town

There’s at least one place in Alaska where you won’t have to fight crowds of tourists.

In fact, you might not see anyone at all.

It’s Kennicott Ghost Town , and it’s been long abandoned by those who used to live and work there.

The heyday of the town was in the early 1900s when people flocked to the nearby copper mines in search of wealth and fortune.

A bustling community grew around the mines, one that included shops, saloons, schools, post offices and even brothels.

Over time, the mines dried up, and the people moved on.

Kennicott Ghost Town is now a relic of turn-of-the-century living.

Visitors can explore it at their leisure or even talk to the handful of residents who still live in the surrounding areas, but don’t expect any fireworks here.

It’s a calm, quiet and slightly eerie destination, and as such, it’s one of the most memorable of Alaska’s attractions.

Address: McCarthy Rd, Chitina, AK, United States

11. Tongass National Forest

Tongass National Forest

With its lush forests, shimmering glaciers and crystalline lakes, Alaska is one of the most beautiful places to travel in the US .

Nowhere is this more apparent than Tongass National Forest .

Tongass National Forest is the largest forest in the entire country; it spans a staggering 16.7 million acres and covers a large swath of southeastern Alaska.

While most of it’s rain forest, you can also find dry mountainous regions as well as water-dominated areas with lots of glaciers and fjords.

Visitors can go hiking, fishing, kayaking, mountaineering and more.

Wildlife observation will cough up everything from brown bears to white mountain goats.

There are a number of cabins dotting the lakes and rivers if you want rustic-style accommodations; otherwise, camping is common.

Unique features of the forest include waterfalls, old mining sites and a special “upside-down garden” where flower towers have their roots on top.

Maybe you’re a family looking to disconnect from phones and video games for awhile.

Maybe you love nature photography and are always on a quest for the next amazing shot.

Whatever your reasons for seeking outdoor wonders, you can find them at Tongass National Forest.

Address: Juneau, AK 99801, United States

12. Great Kobuk Sand Dunes

Great Kobuk Sand Dunes ( Western Arctic National Parklands / flickr )

The Great Kobuk Sand Dunes are another one of those vacation spots that you wouldn’t expect to see in Alaska.

They look like they’re straight out of the Sahara Desert, but they’re surrounded by the alpine forests and snow-covered mountains of the Arctic Circle.

They were formed because of a natural phenomenon millions of years ago.

When their glaciers started to shift, the massive pressure of the ice acted as a grinding agent for the rocks below, eventually turning them into nothing more than a sandy dust.

Today, you can explore the dunes as part of Kobuk Valley National Park.

You’ll need to take an air taxi since there are no roads or trails leading into the wild.

Because of its inaccessibility, this park is one of the least-visited national parks in the entire country, but it’s worth making the trip for the story alone.

The desert in the middle of a winter wonderland is just a bonus!

13. Chickenstock Festival

Chickenstock Festival

Known as a “cluckin’ good time,” the Chickenstock Festival is one of Alaska’s funniest and most irreverent events.

It’s officially advertised as a musical festival, but music is only part of its appeal.

Those who make the pilgrimage to the Chickenstock Festival can enjoy an entire weekend of food, music, games, competitions and general revelry.

There are outdoor concerts; there are food trucks and craft stalls; there are 5K “chicken leg” marathons.

The crowning glory of the event is when a helicopter flies overhead and drops 1,500 marshmallow Peeps onto the cheering crowds below!

Forget Woodstock.

In Alaska, it’s all about Chickenstock.

If you’ll be visiting during the summertime, you won’t want to miss this incredible festival and all of the fun that it brings!

14. Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve

Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve

One of Alaska’s nicknames is “The Last Frontier,” and when you’re standing on the edge of a 15,000-foot cliff and gazing at the massive, ice-covered glaciers below, you’ll realize why the explorers of the past felt so strongly that they had reached the end of the world.

It isn’t easy to climb the mountains of the Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve .

Their terrain is difficult, and their weather is unpredictable.

Some mountaineering expeditions can take a month or more.

If you have the time, however, or if you’re just interested in views unlike any other, the Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve will provide an incredible experience for those who are adventurous enough to take it on.

15. Jewell Gardens

Jewell Gardens

Located in Skagway, the Jewell Gardens enjoy a perpetual summer even when everything around them is cold and remote.

Their beauty is all the more impressive since they’re bright, cheerful and brimming with life despite the harshness of their surrounding landscape.

Their secret lies in both their location and their architecture.

Nestled in the foothills of the mountains, they also make use of many glass features to trap heat and moisture.

Visitors can tour the gardens, sign up for glassblowing demonstrations and more.

Tea ceremonies are arranged daily, and luncheons are guaranteed to have fresh ingredients straight from the source.

If you’re wondering where to visit in Alaska that isn’t perpetually covered in snow, consider a trip to the Jewell Gardens.

They definitely live up to their name as a shining gem in the Land of the Midnight Sun.

Address: Mile 1.5, Klondike Hwy, Skagway, AK 99840, United States

16. Bering Sea Crab Fishermen’s Tour

Bering Sea Crab Fishermen’s Tour

Made famous by the Discovery Channel series Deadliest Catch, this vessel stunned viewers when it was rocked and rolled onto its side thanks to a rogue wave crashing into its belly.

Thankfully, it was righted again, and it’s now enjoying a second life as one of Alaska’s top tourist attractions.

Visitors can climb aboard the same ship that they saw on TV and enjoy a live fishing and crabbing experience with the crew.

It isn’t quite the deadly adventure that was depicted on the show, but it isn’t a leisurely cruise, either.

You’ll get a real and authentic taste of what it’s like to be a fisherman in the frigid waters of the north.

Of the many things to do in Alaska, it’s hard to top something that left viewers all around the world gasping in shock.

If you’re looking for awesome vacation experiences, book a tour with the Bering Sea Crab .

Address: 316 Icehouse Ln, Ketchikan, AK 99901, United States

17. Aurora Express Bed and Breakfast

Aurora Express Bed and Breakfast

Are you looking for unique accommodation in Alaska?

If so, you’ve just found some of the most curiously compelling lodgings in the entire state: the Aurora Express Bed and Breakfast .

Housed in a ragtag assortment of train cars, this B&B offers you the chance to sleep inside of a real but stationary locomotive.

It all started with one woman’s dream to own a train; she began collecting cabooses, sleeper cars and dining compartments in her backyard, and eventually, she had the idea to repurpose them as lodging for adventurous travelers.

The end result is that the Aurora Express Bed and Breakfast is one of the most unusual tourist spots in Alaska.

If you’re looking for something a little more exciting than your usual hotel, how about sleeping in a train going nowhere?

Address: 1550 Chena Ridge Rd, Fairbanks, AK 99709, United States

18. World’s Largest Chocolate Waterfall

World’s Largest Chocolate Waterfall

Chocoholics, this one is for you.

The World’s Largest Chocolate Waterfall is a 20-foot cascade of pure chocolately goodness, and to make it even better, it’s housed in a chocolate shop where you can buy your fill of truffles, bites, bars, fudges and caramels.

The “waterfall” is actually a series of copper tins and kettles that create a cascade of chocolate.

It gushes from the fountain head, floods through the tins and eventually settles in a swirling pool at the bottom.

It moves more than 3,000 pounds of chocolate per day!

When you’re done marveling at the sheer decadence of the falls, you can explore the chocolate shop and its collection of odds and ends, including a five-pound chocolate bar marketed as Alaska’s biggest.

The World’s Largest Chocolate Waterfall is a must see for gourmands, chocoholics, dessert lovers and anyone else with a sweet tooth.

It’ll also be a fun experience for folks who like weird or bizarre roadside attractions that are unique to their vacation destinations.

How many times in your life will you get the chance to see a chocolate waterfall?

Take advantage of the opportunity while you can!

Address: 5225 Juneau Street, Anchorage, AK 99518, United States

19. Burial Spirit Houses

Burial Spirit Houses

Located in the tiny town of Eklutna, the Burial Spirit Houses represent something far greater than themselves.

It all started with Russian Orthodox missionaries who came to the area in the early 1800s.

They formed a bond with the local Athabascan and Danaina people of the Native American tribes, and over time, their cultures started to mingle.

One of these mergings resulted in burial spirit boxes.

Whenever someone died, their loved ones would create a colorful, dollhouse-style burial box to place over the grave, and they’d leave it there to slowly decay as part of the natural processes of the world.

If you’re exploring Alaska and wondering what to do that isn’t listed in a glossy travel brochure, consider a trip to see the Burial Spirit Houses.

They’re the result of an utterly unique community with equally unique cultural practices in one of the least-traveled regions of the world.

It doesn’t get more offbeat than that!

Address: 26339 Eklutna Village Rd, Anchorage, AK 99567, United States

20. Petroglyph Beach

Petroglyph Beach

The world is filled with petrogylphs carved into cave walls, but in a little town called Wrangell, Alaska, their location is more unique.

They’re etched on sea stones that are only visible during the low tide.

Dating back more than 8,000 years, it’s believed that Petroglyph Beach was originally the site of a human settlement, and that’s when the stones were given their markings.

Over time, the land eroded and the sea rose, so the stones were shifted into their current position as a craggy collection along the coast.

Today, you can walk the beach and see the petrogylphs for yourself.

Look closely enough and you might even be able to make out the primitive shapes of salmon, snakes, whales and other animals.

Even if you aren’t into history, Petrogylph Beach is one of the niftiest places to go in Alaska, so make time for it on your vacation itinerary.

You don’t want to miss a landmark that was 8,000 years in the making.

Address: Grave St, Wrangell, AK 99929, United States

21. Husky Homestead

Husky Homestead

You can’t visit the frozen tundras of the north without seeing sled dogs in action.

It’s a long-standing tradition of the region, and it’s a big draw in terms of Alaska attractions.

Fortunately, you don’t have to brave an icy tundra to see sled dogs.

The Husky Homestead lives up to its name by being the breeding and training grounds of dozens of huge, furry and hard-working huskies.

The homestead is run by Jeff King, four-time winner of the famous Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, and he welcomes visitors who want to learn more about the unique roles of huskies in Alaskan culture and history.

You can also play with the pups and marvel at the fully-grown working dogs who take their jobs just as seriously as any human.

Hop on the back of a sled and see what it’s like to yell “mush.”

It’s an attainable dream when you visit the Husky Homestead in Alaska and partake in its many things to see and do.

Address: Milepost 229 Parks Hwy, Hickory, Denali Park, AK 99755, United States

22. Red Onion Saloon

Red Onion Saloon

Back in the day, the Red Onion Saloon was one of the most scandalous places to visit in Alaska.

While the first floor was a regular saloon for drinking, talking and shaking off the dust of the nearby mines, the second floor operated as a bordello.

According to legend, the working girls were represented by dolls at the bar.

Men would choose the doll that they wanted, and when they went upstairs, that girl would be waiting for them.

Today, the Red Onion Saloon functions as both a restaurant and a museum.

Visitors can grab a bite to eat on the first floor before heading upstairs for a tour.

Many of the original furnishings have been preserved or replicated, including the dolls, and there are also a number of racy paintings done in an old-fashioned style to evoke the mood of days gone by.

The Red Onion Saloon has been making visitors happy for more than a century.

It can make you happy as well, so give it a shot!

Address: 201 Broadway, Skagway, AK 99840, United States

23. Sealaska Heritage Institute

Sealaska Heritage Institute

Dedicated to the indigenous tribes of Alaska, the Sealaska Heritage Institute plays an important role in preserving the art, history, folklore and culture of the first groups to settle in the state.

Calling itself “a steward of our past and a catalyst for our future,” the Institute is home to numerous relics and artifacts from long-ago ways of life.

You can see tools from hundreds of years ago, for example, and furs and hunting weapons that are still in use today.

Another feature of note is the extensive collection of Native artwork from both past and present creators.

If that wasn’t reason enough to visit, a portion of your admission will go to projects within the Native community, including language revitalization and cultural awareness campaigns.

Sealaska Heritage Institute is one of the major places of interest for folks who are interested in the indigenous tribes of the U.S. and Canada.

If you want to know more about the people who worked the land before any Europeans did, you won’t want to miss a trip to the Institute.

Address: 105 S Seward St, Juneau, AK 99801, United States

24. Pasagshak River

Pasagshak River ( James Brooks / flickr )

With its shimmering waters that are undisturbed and unpolluted by man, the Pasagshak River is a top 10 destination in Alaska.

It stretches for more than three miles through the rugged beauty of the Kodiak region and contains a number of natural landmarks.

There isn’t a lot of infrastructure at the river.

There are designated areas for camping, including both tent and RV camping, but the amenities are scarce.

For example, there are a limited number of latrines and only a single hand-pump well for fresh water.

Its rustic living, however, is part of its charm.

It’s a pristine piece of wilderness that has yet to be spoiled by humans.

As such, the Pasagshak River is one of the best vacation spots for people who truly want to “get away from it all.”

Whether you’re interested in camping, fishing, hiking, trekking or wildlife observing, this river is a must do.

25. Kuskulana River Bridge

Kuskulana River Bridge

The Kuskulana River Bridge used to be one of the most hair-raising bridges in the world.

It stretched over a deep, jagged and rock-lined gorge more than 230 feet below, and its extremely narrow pathway didn’t have guard rails or any other modern safety features, so people took their covered wagons and walked as slowly as possible to the other side.

When the bridge was snowy or slippery, it was even more treacherous.

The bridge still stands today, but it’s been outfitted with wooden planks to make it wider, and a metal rail has been erected on other side to prevent falls.

It isn’t quite as dangerous, so it isn’t quite as thrilling.

That said, it’s still fun to cross the Kuskulana River Bridge.

The views of the gorge are amazing, and even though it’s safer now than it used to be, there’s still an element of peril in its old-fashioned construction.

If you’re thinking about what to do in Alaska to get the adrenaline flowing, this could be a good way to test yourself and your nerve.

Address: McCarthy Rd, Chitina, AK 99566, United States

26. Kannery Grill

Kannery Grill

Though it has exotic delicacies like reindeer sausage and seal oil berries, Alaska is most famous for its seafood.

Wild salmon is abundant, and it’s also easy to find crab, cod, halibut and more.

So where are the best seafood restaurants in Alaska?

While every town has its favorite local dives, one particularly famous name is the Kannery Grill .

It prides itself on serving fresh, locally-sourced seafood, and it offers everything from fancy oyster plates to pop-em-and-eat-em shrimp and prawn skewers.

It also prepares its fish in fun and creative ways, so if you’ve never tried barbecue salmon or Hawaiian-style tuna poke, you’re in for a treat!

Another nice thing about the restaurant is the amazing view that you can enjoy from its outdoor patio.

The shimmering waters of Kachemak Bay will highlight the distant, misty mountains, so it’s like getting dinner and a sightseeing show.

The Kannery Grill is far from the only seafood restaurant in Alaska, but it’s one of the best.

If your stomach starts rumbling during your vacation, see how far you are from this excellent dining destination.

Address: 451 Sterling Hwy, Homer, AK 99603, United States

27. The Aurora Ice Museum

The Aurora Ice Museum

The Aurora Ice Museum is one of the coolest places to visit in Alaska, and we mean that literally.

Since it’s carved from snow and ice, it’s kept at a perpetual 25°F, and visitors are given parkas to stay warm.

If you don’t mind the chill, however, the museum is a dazzling place.

Not only is it a remarkable piece of architecture all by itself, but it’s also filled with things like elaborate ice sculptures and color-changing lights that are designed to mimic the aurora borealis.

There’s even an ice outhouse if you’re interested in truly one-of-a-kind sites!

The Aurora Ice Museum is part of the Chena Hot Springs Resort, but you don’t have to be a guest to take a tour.

It’s also open 365 days per year, so no matter when you’re visiting Alaska, you can experience its colorful creativity and whimsical wonder.

Address: 17600 Chena Hot Springs Rd, Fairbanks, AK 99712, United States

28. Seward Scenic Highway

Seward Scenic Highway

Are you traveling to Alaska on a budget?

Don’t worry; you don’t have to spend big bucks to have a good time.

In fact, there are many free things to do that won’t cost a dime, including a drive down the Seward Scenic Highway .

Covering more than 125 miles in total, the Seward Scenic Highway runs from Seward to Anchorage , and it passes all kinds of astounding sights.

You’ll be able to marvel at towering cliffs, rushing rivers, snow-topped trees, saltwater bays and more.

Additionally, since it’s a self-guided drive, you can take your time and explore the area without being rushed.

You can even stop and pull over whenever you see something worthy of further exploration!

These side trips will be the only thing with a potential cost since the highway itself is toll- and admission-free.

When money is tight, it’s a good idea to find budget-friendly places to go in Alaska.

Hit the road with the Seward Scenic Highway for an amazing travel experience that won’t break the bank!

29. Aurora Borealis Lodge

Aurora Borealis Lodge

Many people have “see the northern lights” on their bucket list, but few take the time to actually do it.

If you want to be the exception, you’ll need to travel to a place like the Aurora Borealis Lodge .

Located just outside of Fairbanks, which is widely regarded as one of the best destinations for seeing the lights, the Aurora Borealis Lodge offers accommodation as well as guided evening tours.

The guides will lead you to observational points far from electricity and pollution where the lights are at their dramatic.

An important thing to note about the lights is that seeing them is never guaranteed!

Even if they don’t appear, however, you’ll still get to enjoy stunning night skies filled with stars.

The aurora borealis is one of the greatest wonders of the world, and seeing them is one of the greatest things to do in Alaska.

If you’re ready to gaze into the heart of the universe, book a room at the Aurora Borealis Lodge.

Address: 1906 Ridge Run Rd, Fairbanks, AK 99712, United States

30. Kodiak Lab Aquarium

NOAA Fisheries

Another great destination for animal lovers, the Kodiak Lab Aquarium will let you get up close and personal with everything from shrimp to starfish.

It houses an incredible 3,500-gallon tank filled with dozens of different species of marine life, and many of them can be petted and stroked to fulfill your lifelong curiosity about a sea urchin’s spines or a mollusk’s shell.

That’s right: At this aquarium, you don’t have to stand around and just watch the fish swim.

You can actually touch amazing sea specimens that will bloom to life under your fingertips.

The staff will facilitate the handling while the tour guides will answer your questions and point out any cool creatures darting through the waters of the gigantic, glass-walled tank.

There are many Alaska attractions dedicated to its abundant natural wildlife, but if you want a more intimate experience than peering through binoculars at a distant wolverine, you’ll need to visit somewhere like the Kodiak Lab Aquarium.

It’ll let you get hands-on with the critters and creatures of the sea for an unforgettable vacation memory.

Address: 301 Research Ct, Kodiak, AK 99615, United States

31. Alaskan Bore Tide

Alaskan Bore Tide

A bore tide is a special kind of tide that can result in amazing altitudes and trajectories.

There are several hot spots around the world where bore tides are particularly impressive, and Alaska has one of them.

Known as simply the “Alaskan Bore Tide,” this stretch of coastline in the Turnagain Arm of Anchorage has jaw-dropping tidal waves.

They can reach between 6 – 10 feet tall, and it isn’t uncommon for their speed to surpass 10 – 15 miles per hour.

Viewing these tides is just a matter of finding good places to see among the observational points of the area.

There isn’t an official site, so feel free to hike, bike or drive wherever the locals point you.

At the end of the day, when you’re witnessing these amazing bore tides crash into sands, cliffs and dunes, you’ll realize why Alaska holds such power as a nature destination.

32. Kroschel Wildlife Center

Kroschel Wildlife Center

Animal lovers, are you wondering where to go in Alaska to get the best and most unobtrusive views of local wildlife?

The answer is the Kroschel Wildlife Center .

Functioning as a sort of “anti-zoo,” the Kroschel Wildlife Center is a sanctuary for abused and neglected animals where they’re allowed to roam freely through natural, wide-spanning habitats.

The visitors are the ones who walk through an enclosed path to observe whatever bears, wolves, foxes, lynxes, moose or reindeer might be visible beyond it.

There are chances to get close to certain critters through interactive feeding and grooming sessions, but you’ll need to arrange for those in advance.

Ultimately, the Kroschel Wildlife Center is a chance to support a good cause while also enjoying an unfiltered look at Alaska’s native flora and fauna.

It’s a must do for animal lovers but an enjoyable experience for anyone with an open mind.

Address: 18 Mosquito Lake Rd, Haines, AK 99827, United States

33. Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum

Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum

Did you know that the first automobile in Alaska was a 1898 Hay Motor Vehicle?

It’s a sight to behold, and it’s available for viewing at the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum .

Housing one of the state’s largest collections of cars, the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum tells a story of transportation throughout time.

Its earliest vehicles are horse-drawn carriages, and it progresses from speedsters to midget racers to cycle cars as it eventually makes its way to more modern models.

It’s amazing to see the journey of cars from stuffy Victorian carriages to the bright and dazzling electric engines of recent years.

If you’re all interested in cars, you’ll want to make time for the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum.

Address: 212 Wedgewood Dr, Fairbanks, AK 99701, United States

34. Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve

Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve

Located even further north than the Arctic Circle, the Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve is one of the prettiest places in the US.

Part of its beauty comes from its scenery.

Like many destinations in Alaska, it’s dominated by tall mountains, icy rivers and boreal forests of pines, spruces and larches.

A unique feature of the park, however, is its careful preservation by the state.

There are no roads and minimal trails; once you hit the remote, rugged terrain, you’re on your own.

To top things off, the cold and arid tundra is sometimes referred to as an “arctic desert,” so you’ll be challenged by the climate as well as the landscape.

If you can hack it, however, the Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve is a stunning example of what nature can look like without the interference of man.

Address: Airport Road, Fairbanks, AK 99701, United States

35. Girdwood Forest Fair

With homemade art, hand-crafted beer and folk musicians fluting and fiddling on outdoor stages, the Girdwood Forest Fair will take you right back to the days of Robin Hood and his merry men.

It isn’t actually a renaissance festival.

It’s just an old-fashioned kind of event that prioritizes good, clean fun among families and other members of the community.

It also has a focus on supporting local creatives; in fact, it was originally started by artists who wanted to bring people together in celebration of food, music, theater and crafts.

Today, the Girdwood Forest Fair is magicked into existence every summer by volunteers from all around the state.

Admission is free, and the festivities last an entire weekend.

If you’ll be in Girdwood during the warmer months, venture into the forest and follow the sounds of music to reach a lively and lovely event!

Address: 250 Egloff Dr, Girdwood, AK 99587, United States

36. Little Diomede Island

Unites States Coast Guard, Petty Officer Richard Brahm , Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

With a small population located on a remote, self-sufficient island, Little Diomede Island might just be one of the most unusual destinations in the world.

For starters, it’s inhabited by Native Americans who have lived in the same place for thousands of years, and most of them still have a traditional hunting-and-gathering lifestyle.

They’re self-sufficient, needing only the occasional supply drop via helicopter to make it through the harsher winters.

That’s the other thing: the island is only accessible by boat or air, so while visitors aren’t forbidden, it’s rare for people to care enough to make the trip.

Last but not least, the island is only a stone’s throw away from the slightly larger Big Diomede Island, but that land is claimed by Russia and marked by a different time zone.

Since it’s 21 hours behind its bigger cousin, Little Diomede Island is sometimes known as “Yesterday Island.”

If you’re intrigued by Little Diomede Island, feel free to arrange a visit or even just a site seeing trip to the border of the nearby town.

It isn’t much, but it has an awesome story, and it’ll be a unique pit stop on your greater Alaskan journey.

37. Sullivan Arena

Sullivan Arena

Alaska might be a hard place to reach compared to the continental United States, but many actors, athletes and musicians make the trip.

When they do, their final destination is usually Sullivan Arena .

Located in Anchorage , the Sullivan Arena can seat more than 6,000, so it’s the go-to venue for everything from concerts to sporting events.

It’s played host to basketball, football and ice hockey championships; it’s welcomed musical acts ranging from Elton John to the Red Hot Chili Peppers.

It’s even been the stage of choice for large-scale theater productions!

Check the schedule to see what’s happening at the Sullivan Arena.

There might be something exciting going on during the dates of your Alaskan getaway.

Address: 1600 Gambell St, Anchorage, AK 99501, United States

38. Dimond Center Mall

Dimond Center Mall

You’ve climbed the tallest mountains of Alaska.

You’ve seen the largest whales and scaled the largest glaciers.

How about shopping at the biggest mall, too?

Covering more than 728,000 square feet, the Dimond Center Mall offers much more than just shops and kiosks.

There’s a bowling alley; there’s an ice skating rink; there’s a health club.

There’s a food court for trying moose burgers and a nine-screen movie theater for catching all of the latest blockbusters.

There’s even an office tower that houses the radio infrastructure for iHeartMedia!

Stepping into the Dimond Center Mall is like stepping into a brightly-lit beehive with people scurrying to and fro across multiple stories.

As long as you don’t mind parting with a little cash, it’s one of the most amazing places to visit in the area.

Address: 800 E Dimond Blvd, Anchorage, AK 99515, United States

39. Alaska Raptor Center

Alaska Raptor Center

Alaska might be known for its abundant wildlife, but it still suffers from the deforestation and other environmental problems of the rest of the world, so its animals can require a helping hand to survive.

This is what motivated two women to start the Alaska Raptor Center in 1980.

Originally just a backyard project with a single bald eagle, it’s grown to a sprawling, multi-acre complex staffed by numerous volunteers and filled with twice as many birds.

The goal is to rehabilitate sick and injured birds and release them back into the wild.

Some of them, however, wouldn’t make it on the outside, so they’re used as feathered friends to teach visitors about conservationism.

The birds of the facility include owls, eagles, falcons, hawks and more.

You can walk through their habitats; you can observe their training; you can even “adopt a raptor” by funding the expenses of their sanctuary.

There’s a lot to love about the Alaska Raptor Center.

Not only will it be a fun experience, but it will also be a good cause to support.

How many tourist attractions can say that?

Address: 1000 Raptor Way, Sitka, AK 99835, United States

40. Poker Flat Research Range

Poker Flat Research Range

Built beneath an “auroral ring” where the northern lights are prone to occur, the Poker Flat Research Range is one of the largest astronomical research centers in the Arctic Circle, and it’s an amazing destination for those who are interested in the night sky.

Most of their work is dedicated to launching rockets across the frozen tundras of Alaska.

They have special permission from federal governments and indigenous landowners to do so.

Another part of their work revolves around the aurora borealis.

They study it; they document it; they run experiments on it and with it.

Visitors to the range can take tours, see rocket launches, join stargazing parties and participate in a number of astronomy-related events and activities.

There’s always something new on the calendar, so check it out and figure out what will be happening during your vacation time.

Of all the places to see in Alaska, there’s nowhere quite like the Poker Flat Research Range.

With its combination of science, tourism and good old-fashioned fun, it’s a unique research site as well as a killer tourist destination.

Address: 30 Mile Steese Hwy, Fairbanks, AK 99712, United States

41. Hammer Museum

Hammer Museum

If you’re the type of person who loves to stop at weird, quirky attractions like “the world’s largest ball of twine” or “the country’s only alligator petting zoo,” you might like the Hammer Museum .

True to its name, the Hammer Museum is completely devoted to hammers.

It has more than 1,400 on display, and many come with cool stories, gruesome histories, interesting factoids or just old-as-dirt origins.

The most ancient of the hammers dates back to the Roman Empire.

Additionally, the museum is the only one of its kind in the world, and it’s been recognized by the Smithsonian Institution for its unique service.

It isn’t just an oddity; it’s a genuine collection of historical objects and artifacts.

If you’re wondering what to see in Alaska that’s thoroughly off the beaten path, swing by the Hammer Museum.

You can’t miss the towering, larger-than-life hammer statue outside, and the inside will be just as fun and unusual as the rest.

Address: 108 Main St, Haines, AK 99827, United States

42. Running Reindeer Ranch

Running Reindeer Ranch

Some of the best tourist attractions in Alaska are ones that are off the beaten path, and this includes the Running Reindeer Ranch .

It’s a small, family-owned farm just outside of Fairbanks, so you won’t find it listed in official travel guides, but it can provide a wonderful experience for you and the kids.

Activities include everything from educational “reindeer walks” to fun and silly things like “reindeer yoga.”

The docile reindeer of the farm will let you pet them, feed them and engage them in various reindeer games.

You can also book cabin-style lodgings right on the property if you want to stay close to the critters!

The Running Reindeer Ranch is one of the most fun places to visit for families in Alaska.

It gets rave reviews from locals and tourists alike, and it’s an utterly unique destination that’s sure to create lifelong memories.

Hop on your sleigh and come say hello to Santa’s helpers!

Address: 1470 Ivans Alley, Fairbanks, AK 99709, United States

43. Mendenhall Ice Caves

Mendenhall Ice Caves

If “running around inside a glacier” isn’t on your bucket list of things to do in Alaska, it’s time to correct this oversight.

The Mendenhall Ice Caves will provide an eerie and out-of-this-world experience for anyone brave enough to explore them, and what’s more, there’s only a limited time to see them.

What are the ice caves?

Simply put, they’re part of the greater Mendenhall Glacier, but they’ve formed in a way that allows people to climb inside of them.

They have strikingly blue walls that are part ice, part snow and part water; it’s said that they’re one of the rare places in nature where you can see every stage of the water cycle.

The only downside of the caves is that they won’t be around forever.

Even now, they’re melting, shifting and eroding; it’s only a matter of time before they’re gone for good.

If you’re interested in the Mendenhall Ice Caves, you’ll need to get there sooner rather than later.

This incredible experience has an expiration date.

Address: 6000 Glacier Spur Rd, Juneau, AK 99801, United States

44. Eagle River Nature Center

Eagle River Nature Center

Many vacation spots in Alaska are dedicated to the outdoors, but the Eagle River Nature Center adds education to its entertainment by also serving as a portal for things like environmental awareness and wildlife conservation.

Visitors to the center can learn all about plants, animals and assorted nature topics.

There are kid-friendly exhibits as well as more advanced and specialized ones for adults.

While the little ones are enjoying story time, you can listen to a lecture or take a workshop from a naturalist.

When you’re done with all of the center’s indoor activities, lace up your hiking boots and hit the nature trails.

Some are easy walks around flower-filled prairies while others are more strenuous treks to hidden cliffs and waterfalls.

All things considered, the Eagle River Nature Center is a fun way to spend an afternoon in Alaska, and it’s educational to boot.

Kids and adults can both learn a thing or two.

If you’re looking for tourist attractions with substance, this is the place to go!

Address: 32750 Eagle River Rd, Eagle River, AK 99577, United States

45. Shuyak Island State Park

Shuyak Island State Park

Another great place for people who are interested in exploring the rugged and untouched terrain of Alaska, Shuyak Island State Park is located in the Kodiak Archipelago, and it offers stunning sights as well as unique activities and opportunities.

Places to visit include beaches, forests, campgrounds, nature trails and fishing holes.

You can go trekking through the trees; you can go canoeing or kayaking in the water.

Most sites can only be reached by sea or air, which adds to the undisturbed nature of their landscapes; people only go to the trouble of reaching them when they’re serious about experiencing the true outdoors.

One thing to note about the park is that it’s quite remote, so beginner outdoorsmen might want to skip it.

If you get into trouble, assistance could be hours away.

If you’re willing to take the risk, however, or if you just love the thought of disconnecting from modern life and reconnecting with nature, Shuyak Island State Park is easily one of the top destinations of Alaska.

46. Totem Bight State Historical Park

Totem Bight State Historical Park

When talking about Alaska, it’s important to honor the spirit and sacrifice of its first inhabitants.

They lived all across the state in a number of tribes, and they deserve to be remembered, celebrated and supported in modern times.

One of the ways to show your support is with a trip to Totem Bight State Historical Park .

It boasts more than a dozen full-size and full-color totem poles, and it also centers itself around a replica of an 1800s indigenous village.

Many of the artistic elements of the landscape, including the totem poles, tell an ongoing story that can only be understood by visiting them all.

Other activities include learning how to carve your own totem poles and taking long, leisurely walks around the nature paths.

If you’re interested in the Native American way of life, Totem Bight State Historical Park is a must see.

It’ll provide a rich visual experience as well as an unforgettable emotional journey into the heart and soul of Alaska’s indigenous people.

It’s a truly one-of-a-kind destination.

Address: 9883 N Tongass Hwy, Ketchikan, AK 99901, United States

47. Tiny Church

Tiny Church

Have you ever been inside of a church the size of a broom closet?

Such is the case with Tiny Church, a minuscule house of worship located in the similarly small village of Soldotna, Alaska.

The church was created in response to the community’s wish for a praying space that was never closed.

Unlike bigger churches with fixed hours of admission, they wanted somewhere that was always open to those in need of divine guidance.

The result was Tiny Church.

It’s open 24/7, 365 days per year, and the doors are never locked.

You can come and go as you please.

There are three pews inside and a small assortment of Bibles.

If you’re a religious person wondering what to do on vacation that can broaden your spiritual horizons, you might enjoy a trip to Tiny Church.

Its surprisingly wholesome origins go hand-in-hand with its quiet, peaceful atmosphere and its perpetually welcoming presence.

Address: 37710 Kenai Spur Highway, Soldotna, AK 99669, United States

48. Eldred Rock Lighthouse

Eldred Rock Lighthouse

Looming in the misty fog of its canal, the Eldred Rock Lighthouse is the oldest original lighthouse still standing in the state of Alaska.

It was constructed in the early 1900s after a series of shipwrecks.

One of the most notorious wrecks resulted in both a major loss of life and the mysterious disappearance of a large cache of gold, so state officials decided that it was high time for something to change.

The Eldred Rock Lighthouse was just one of almost a dozen lighthouses built along the canal, but the others fell into decay and disrepair, so it’s the only one that remains today.

If you’re looking for cool things to see and do in Alaska, its oldest lighthouse should do the trick!

By the way, the gold from that shipwreck was never recovered.

Maybe you’ll get lucky and discover more than just a lighthouse during your vacation, eh?

49. Alaska State Fair

Alaska State Fair

Held every summer, the Alaska State Fair welcomes thousands of visitors each year for clean, all-ages fun.

Many people come for the food, of course, and it’s true that you’ll find everything from deep-fried candy bars to larger-than-life burrito bowls and seafood skewers.

But fair food isn’t the only draw of the event.

There are also rides, carnival games, musical performances, souvenir stalls and seasonal curiosities such as record-breaking gigantic vegetables.

If you’ll be in town during the dog days of summer, you’ll want to make time for the Alaska State Fair.

It’s the last hurrah for a place that knows a long and brutal winter is ahead.

They go all out with their celebrations, and you can reap the benefits!

ddress: 2075 Glenn Hwy, Palmer, AK 99645, United States

50. Kenai Fjords National Park

Kenai Fjords National Park

Hailed as the place where “mountains, ice and oceans meet,” Kenai Fjords National Park is a top tier sightseeing destination in Alaska.

Not only does it offer some of the largest ice fields in the country, but it’s also teeming with glaciers, fjords and other incredible land and water features.

The best way to see the sights is with a ferry tour; it’ll take you along a picturesque path while also opening the door for whale watching and other wildlife observation.

If you’re lucky, you might see all kinds of orcas, puffins, porpoises, sea lions and arctic birds.

Another option is to go by foot.

Hiking paths are open even in the winter for those who want to test their mettle against the howling wind and snow.

In the summer, there are also opportunities for camping, kayaking, sportfishing and taking sled dog tours.

Kenai Fjords National Park is one of the best places to visit for nature lovers in Alaska.

The things that you see here will stay in your memory for a lifetime.

51. Whittier Tunnel

Whittier Tunnel

Driving through Whittier Tunnel is one of the coolest things to do in Alaska.

Sure, it isn’t an amusement park or a grizzly-filled wilderness preserve, but it has a kind of fun, everyday entertainment value that’s worth the cost of admission.

Also known as Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, Whittier Tunnel is the longest bimodal highway tunnel in North America, and it’s a one-way passage into the city that’s shared by cars and trains.

To get there, you’ll drive to its mountain and pass both through and underneath it, your view turning dark and eerie as you enter the underground cavern and drive for several miles before reaching the other side.

There’s a schedule for moving through the tunnel since the cars need to avoid the trains, so make sure to call ahead and plan your trip accordingly.

Whittier Tunnel might not be the craziest of Alaska’s attractions, but it can add a little excitement to your road trip, and it can become a fun memory to share with others if you snap some creepy selfies along the way.

If you’re aiming for outside-of-the-box tourist destinations, this one is a bullseye.

Address: Portage Glacier Rd, Chugach National Forest, Whittier, AK 99693, United States

52. Santa Claus House

Santa Claus House

Do you love the holiday season?

Do you dream of visiting a place where it’s Christmas all year long?

Located in North Pole, Alaska, the Santa Claus House makes dreams come true.

This isn’t an exaggeration; it’s staffed by volunteers who answer children’s letters from all across the country.

In terms of visiting, you can shop ’til you drop in a store absolutely stuffed with holiday-themed goodies, or you can munch on some milk and cookies in the cafe.

You can also snap a selfie with a 42-foot-tall Santa or visit the stables to see Mr. Kringle’s reindeer team in action.

You don’t have to wait for December to get into the holiday spirit.

Visit the Santa Claus House to bring a little “ho ho ho” to your vacation at any time of year!

Address: 101 St Nicholas Dr, North Pole, AK 99705, United States

53. Kingfisher Aviation

Kingfisher Aviation

Last but not least, if you want to end your trip with a bang, consider a flight with Kingfisher Aviation .

They offer tours around the beautiful, uncharted wilderness of both Kodiak Island and the Katmai Coast by means of sea-skimming floatplanes, so you’ll be able to say goodbye to Alaska in style.

It starts with stunning aerial views of lakes, forests, fjords and snow-topped cliffs.

During bear season, you’ll get to touch down for awhile and observe them; during other times of year, you’ll detour to the local volcano and sour around it with the eagles.

Other services offered by the airline include charter trips to hunting lodges and fishing camps that are inaccessible by land, so they’re also a useful source of transport in addition to a great portal for sightseeing.

There’s nothing like a 360° view of Alaska from high in the clouds.

Say farewell to the stunning majesty of the state with a flight that you’ll never forget!

Address: 1829 Mill Bay Rd, Kodiak, AK 99615, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Alaska

These are just a few of the best things to do in Alaska.

Whether you’re backpacking, vacationing, honeymooning or simply traveling for the fun of it, put some of these destinations on your to-do list.

You won’t want to miss any of the opportunities presented by the Land of the Midnight Sun!

Happy travels.

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

27 Best Things to do in Alaska

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

Home to some of the last and largest unspoiled expanses of wilderness on the planet, Alaska’s untold natural riches really are amazing to explore. Appropriately nicknamed ‘The Last Frontier’, America’s northwesternmost state has a startling array of landscapes, views, and wildlife for you to check out.

Separated from the contiguous US by Canada , its vast forests, mountain ranges and glaciers mainly lie within the icy Arctic Circle. While its numerous national parks and pristine nature spots are often quite tricky, time-consuming, and costly to reach, those who do make it are more than rewarded with divine views and nature.

Asides from hiking and kayaking about its confines, one of the most popular things to do in Alaska is taking a memorable sightseeing cruise up and down its dramatic coastline. While most come to see its marvelous mountains and glittering glaciers, the state also has some interesting historic sites and museums to stop by. With bears, orcas, caribou and wolves all often sighted, isolated Alaska really is the destination that keeps on giving.

27. Gates of the Arctic National Park

Located in the far north of Alaska is the enormous, icy and inhospitable Gates of the Arctic National Park. Besides protecting large parts of the rugged Brooks Range, it encompasses sweeping valleys, rushing rivers, and glinting glaciers.

Wonderfully wild and untouched, it is the least visited national park in the US with only the hardiest adventurers exploring its picturesque reaches. Only accessible by air taxi, it lies entirely north of the Arctic Circle with no established roads, trails, campsites or supply points being available.

Those who do visit, however, are in for a treat as stunning landscapes, scenery, and nature greet your eye wherever you go. Only adding to the unique and unforgettable experience are the awe-inspiring caribou, wolves, and grizzlies you can sometimes spy roaming about.

26. Homer Spit

Much, much easier to explore is the scenic Homer Spit that juts out into Kachemak Bay. Perched at the southern tip of the Kenai Peninsula, it can be found just outside the tiny city of the same name.

Impressively enough, the narrow stretch of land features the world’s longest road into ocean waters with the route reaching 4.5 miles in total. With shimmering waters lying on either side and majestic snow-capped mountains rising up in the distance, it really is a delight to drive along.

Aside from taking in the phenomenal views, visitors can also stop by its shops, seafood restaurants, and salty saloons. From the Homer Boat Harbor, you can organize fantastic fishing trips with seals, sea lions, and bald eagles regularly sighted in the bay alongside the occasional whale.

25. Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

Other than actually heading out into the wilderness yourself, the best place to see some of the state’s incredible creatures is at a sanctuary. Only an hour from Anchorage is the excellent Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and all its spacious enclosures, animals, and exhibits.

Since 1993, the center has cared for orphaned and injured Alaskan critters and returned them to the wild when possible. At its sprawling site at the entrance to Portage Valley, guests can see everything from caribou and Canadian lynxes, to black bears, wood bison, and bald eagles.

As well as seeing them up close and personal, you can also learn all about their behaviors, natural habitats, and various threats facing them. On tours with knowledgeable guides, you can feed some of its friendly residents and hear more about the sanctuary’s conservation efforts.

24. Chena Hot Springs

After having explored Alaska and enjoyed so many exciting outdoor activities, you’ll certainly want to relax and unwind at the Chena Hot Springs. At the small resort amidst the mountains, you’ll find indoor pools, hot tubs, and outdoor bathing areas with fine views and nature surrounding the springs.

For over a hundred years, people have been heading to the hot springs which lie about an hour and a half east of Fairbanks . Since those early days, numerous cabins and campgrounds have sprung up, as well as a hotel and the Aurora Ice Museum full of astonishing ice sculptures.

During the summer, the springs enjoy almost 24-hour daylight with the magical aurora borealis also often spied overhead in winter. On top of bathing in the area’s warm waters, you can hike, bike, and dogsled about its valleys, hills, and forests.

23. Hubbard Glacier

While some thermal springs can be found here and there, many parts of Alaska like the humongous Hubbard Glacier are incredibly cold and icy. From Yakutat in the southeast of the state, visitors can take superb sightseeing cruises and boat trips to see its endless ice sheets.

The largest tidewater glacier in North America, it occupies the entrance to the Russell Fjord within Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. First mapped in 1895, it remarkably stretches around 76 miles in length. Massive chunks of ice the size of ten-storey buildings routinely calve off it into the ocean.

Witnessing this is an unbelievable experience as the sight is accompanied by a thunder-like cracking echo that reverberates over the waters. The gigantic white and blue glacier makes for some fabulous viewing and photos at any time though as mini-icebergs and mighty mountains surround the scene.

22. Alaska SeaLife Center

If you want to shelter inside and escape the biting cold for a bit then the Alaska SeaLife Center is an excellent option. Lying alongside Resurrection Bay in Seward, it has thousands of amazing Alaskan marine mammals, fish, and birds for you to see.

Founded in 1998, it is dedicated to the research, rehabilitation, and conservation of the state’s marine ecosystems. At the state-of-the-art site, guests can tour tanks packed with playful otters, seals, and puffins. Interactive exhibitions and interpretive installations teach you all about the underwater environment of Alaska’s freezing Arctic waters.

The highlight though is stroking cute starfish, sea anemones, and small hermit crabs in its touch tank that is designed to look like a rocky coast.

21. Creek Street, Ketchikan

The most popular section of the state’s southernmost city of Ketchikan to explore is undoubtedly the charming and colorful Creek Street. Once a rowdy red-light district, its waterfront walkways are now instead lined by little arts and crafts shops, local cafes, and a couple of small restaurants.

Formerly home to dozens of bawdy houses and speakeasies, its historic boardwalk and buildings are actually built above the water on wooden stilts. Wonderfully well-preserved, its colourful collection of houses and the dazzling water and mountains around them now make for some splendid photos.

Set just a stone’s throw from the center and its cruise ship terminals, it is the most atmospheric place to shop and eat out in Ketchikan. Informative plaques also teach you a bit about Creek Street’s past, while salmon can be spied leaping up its falls.

20. Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum

One of Fairbanks’ top attractions, the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum is home to a world-class collection of vintage cars. Almost a hundred pre-World War II vehicles dot its showroom floor with facts, photos, and period fashion pieces accompanying them.

First opened to the public in 2009, it transports visitors on a very visual journey as you explore the origins and evolution of automobiling. Particularly fascinating are its very well-done displays on the considerable challenges involved with navigating Alaska’s harsh confines and unforgiving climate.

The main reason people visit though is of course for its early race cars, elegant classics, and restored horseless carriages. Many of these are still driven outside each year with period clothes highlighting what the fashion trends were when they were originally produced.

19. Totem Bight State Historical Park

Just north of Ketchikan you can find the absolutely terrific Totem Bight State Historical Park. Home to loads of towering totem poles, it offers up an invaluable insight into the history, culture, and art of Alaska’s Native Americans.

Now surrounded by temperate rainforest, the sheltered cove was previously a seasonal fishing camp for local tribes. Tucked away amidst all the lush undergrowth are fourteen Tlingit and Haida totem poles to stumble across. Intricately carved with impressive figures of animals, humans, and spirits, they record and impart age-old indigenous lessons and stories.

A reconstruction of a traditional clan house is also situated at the park, as are plenty of informative panels and a gift store. From its beach, you can enjoy commanding views over the nearby coastline.

18. Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race

An incredible endurance event like no other, the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race has taken place every year since 1973. Held entirely within Alaska, it sees mushers and their teams of between 12 and 14 huskies compete to cross the finish line first. In total, it takes around a week or two to complete the challenging route with the winners becoming local celebrities.

While the start of the annual Iditarod is in Anchorage, the endpoint lies some 938 miles away in the northwest city of Nome. Along the way the fifty or more yapping teams pass through endless forests and mountains, over high up ridges, and across rivers, and even sea ice.

Although portions of the trail have been used for hundreds of years by Native Alaskans, the current race is credited with the resurgence of recreational mushing. As such, it is one of the Last Frontier’s most iconic and important winter events. Visitors can either watch the ceremonial start or stop by its small museum in nearby Wasilla.

17. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park

Sprawling across a huge part of the south-center of the state is the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. Sure to delight nature lovers and outdoor aficionados, its scenic wilderness encompasses countless mountains and forests, marshes, canyons, and glaciers.

The largest national park in Alaska and even the US, it is centered around the hulking great Wrangell Range with parts of the St. Elias and Chugach Mountains also featuring. Nine of the country’s loftiest peaks dominate its confines with the 18,008 feet high Mount Saint Elias being the mightiest of the lot. The park also stretches down to the glimmering Gulf of Alaska with glaciers, ice sheets, and snow fields covering its rocky coastline.

Accessible from Anchorage and Yakutat, it has epic hiking, rock climbing, whitewater rafting, and camping for you to enjoy. Hunting and wildlife watching are also popular as bears, wolves, caribou, and moose amble about the park.

16. Alaska Native Heritage Center

A very interesting and educational place to visit, the Alaska Native Heritage Center can be found on the northeastern outskirts of Anchorage. Through artifacts, exhibits, and traditional edifices, it looks at the history and culture of the state’s indigenous peoples.

Set amidst lots of lush woodland, it was opened in 1999 to protect and preserve the rich heritage of eleven of Alaska’s major cultural groups. At the site, visitors can amble around six life-sized Native dwellings, all clustered along the shores of Lake Tiulana.

Inside the center are galleries dedicated to various aspects of daily life and special ceremonies with kayaks, weapons, and artworks all displayed. To top it all off, it regularly hosts scintillating concerts, dance shows, and storytelling events in its theater.

15. Chugach State Park

Another pristine nature spot that is easily accessed from Anchorage is the captivating Chugach State Park. After just twenty minutes’ drive, you can find yourself hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding amidst all its breathtaking scenery.

Named after the massive and majestic mountain range that runs through it, the park was established in 1970. Roaring rivers, glinting glaciers, and sweeping valleys punctuate the rugged range with vast forests and alpine meadows also on show. Bears, moose, and wolves can sometimes be spotted in its remote reaches.

As it is so conveniently located right next to the city, locals and tourists alike come to camp, climb, and ski in the mountains. Besides some lovely lakes and coastline, it also contains the most climbed peak in the state – the 3,510 feet high Flattop Mountain.

14. Alaska Raptor Center

Not far from the center of Sitka is one of the small city’s standout sights: the brilliant Alaska Raptor Center. In its spacious enclosures and aviaries, you can see amazing eagles and owls, fierce falcons and hawks up close and learn all about the remarkable raptors.

Since opening in 1980, the site’s animal hospital and rehabilitation center have treated around one to two hundred injured birds each year. When they are well enough and can fly again, the magnificent creatures are released back into the wild. Those who sadly sustain serious injuries are permanently housed at the center with roughly two dozen now inhabiting its aviaries.

While touring the facility, you can meet its residents with flying demonstrations and expert lectures and talks taking place all the time.

Set in an absolutely stunning spot is the small port city of Seward. Surrounded by sparkling waters and striking snow-capped mountains, it lies at the head of Resurrection Bay on the Kenai Peninsula.

Now known as the ‘Gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park’, the town was initially founded in 1903 as the ocean terminus of the Alaska Railroad. The state’s only deep-water, ice-free port, it has great transport links with sport fishing trips and sightseeing cruises both being available from its harbor.

Aside from basking in its beauty and exploring the neighboring national park, you can also kayak and sail about its sheltered waters. Seward also has some super little local shops and restaurants for you to try out after having explored its mountains, fjords, and glaciers.

12. Inside Passage

As it is protected from the open waters of the Pacific by innumerable islands, countless cruise ships, ferries, and freighters ply the Inside Passage. A very scenic route, it boasts extraordinary panoramas of Southeastern Alaska’s coastline with untold wildlife watching opportunities and outdoor activities being on offer.

While the Last Frontier’s portion of the passage already extends more than 500 miles, the protected route reaches as far south as Puget Sound in Washington state. As you cruise along peacefully, you can gaze out over the marvelous mountains, islands, fjords and glaciers on either side.

In addition to navigating the network of calmer and quieter waterways, you can stop off at various towns and national parks. This allows you to hike, kayak and explore the Inside Passage further.

11. Katmai National Park

Famed for its abundance of big brown bears and the leaping salmon they feast on, Katmai National Park really is an unforgettable place to visit. Lying at the base of the Alaskan Peninsula, its isolated landscapes can only be reached by air taxi from Anchorage, Homer, and King Salmon.

Once you arrive, and even on the way, you’ll be greeted with spellbinding scenery as a chain of huge volcanos line its dramatic coastline. The most impressive spot to see them is the lava-scarred Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes which is full of fumaroles, craters, and gaping chasms.

Its other main attraction is of course the thousands of brown bears that inhabit the area. In summer, large groups can be spied fishing for salmon near the Brooks Falls viewing platform. A sight like no other, they make for fabulous photos with moose, coyotes, and bald eagles also often spotted around the park

10. Museum of the North, Fairbanks

If you want to learn everything there is to know about the state’s history, culture, and nature, then the Museum of the North is a must. Occupying a distinctive modern facility on the University of Alaska Fairbanks campus, its collection contains roughly 2.5 million artifacts and specimens.

Packed with interesting items and exhibits, its light and airy galleries display not just millennia-old Alaskan art but mummified bison, mammoths, and dinosaurs too. While some sections cover natural wonders and Native culture, others look at the state’s founding, Russian fur traders, and the Klondike Gold Rush.

After having taken in its ancient artifacts and artworks and read the informative texts accompanying them, you can always stop for a coffee or explore its gift shop.

9. Alaska Railroad

A wonderful way to see more of the state’s stupendous scenery is to take a memorable trip along the Alaska Railroad. Stretching 470 miles in length, it takes passengers from Fairbanks, near the center of the state and Arctic Circle, all the way to Seward on the south coast.

Slowly completed over the course of twenty years, the remarkable route represented an astonishing engineering achievement when it opened in 1923. This is because it winds its way between soaring mountains, sweeping valleys, and alongside glittering shorelines. Magical waterfalls and ginormous glaciers can also be spied along the railway line.

While some people travel along the whole route, most only complete shorter sections in and around Anchorage. Its staggering scenery, nature, and views, however, make the Alaska Railroad one of the world’s greatest rail journeys.

8. Watch the Northern Lights

As Alaska lies so far to the north, it is one of the best places on Earth to watch the incredible natural phenomenon that is the Northern Lights. Also known as the aurora borealis, the spectacular swirling lights show can be enjoyed across much of the state, at almost any time of year.

Due to its location under the ‘Aurora Oval’ and numerous hours of darkness in winter, many people head to Fairbanks to see their bewitching colors, shapes, and swirls. Dedicated tours, activities, and specially designed accommodations all give you the best chance of seeing the polar lights illuminate the night’s sky.

On the outskirts of Anchorage and other cities across the state, visitors can also view the shimmering lights. To increase the odds, head to secluded, light-free spots with August through to March being the peak season to see them.

7. Mendenhall Glacier

Just north of the capital Juneau you can find the extensive ice of the enormous Mendenhall Glacier. Tucked away within Tongass National Forest, it occupies a humongous valley with bare yet beautiful mountains rising up around it, and verdant woods lying nearby.

Stretching over thirteen miles in total, it extends from the gigantic Juneau Icefield to the mirror-like Mendenhall Lake. Due to climate change and the increasing warm weather, it is currently retreating with large chunks of it often carving off into the waters below.

At its visitor center, guests can learn more about the glacier and take photos of it from the numerous viewing platforms along the lake. There are also several great hikes to do nearby with Nugget Falls being the area’s other main sight.

6. Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center

Somewhat similar in scope to the Museum of the North, Anchorage’s excellent institute also offers a fascinating insight into Alaska’s art, history, lands, and peoples. Set right in the center of the city, its innumerable artifacts and exhibits can be found within the state-of-the-art Rasmuson Center.

Since first opening to the public back in 1968, it has steadily grown into the state’s largest and most prestigious museum. Its delightfully designed galleries now display thousands of objects, art pieces and specimens with countless historic photos adorning its walls. While some parts focus on the gold rush era and WWII, others look at Native Alaskans, statehood, and exploration by Russians.

What’s more, the magnificent Anchorage Museum also has an enthralling planetarium and fun-filled Imaginarium Discovery Center for guests to explore.

5. Sitka National Historical Park

Combining art, history, and nature in one unmissable package is the superb Sitka National Historical Park. Situated just south of the city of the same name, its lush woodland trails, towering totem poles and restored Russian Bishop’s House lie alongside Crescent Bay.

Uniquely enough, the pretty park preserves the site of a battle between Russian fur traders and local Tlingit Indians. As well as wandering along its quiet trails and seeing its terrific totem poles, visitors can learn more about Russia’s involvement in Alaska in the 1842 Bishop’s House.

One of the few surviving examples of the nation’s colonial architecture in North America, it houses exhibits on the orthodox church and Russian America. In contrast, the park’s cultural center shines a light on Sitka and Southeastern Alaska’s indigenous peoples.

4. Kenai Fjords National Park

Just southwest of Seward is one of Alaska’s most picturesque national park : the Kenai Fjords National Park. Mostly made up of the almost endless Harding Icefield, its dramatic coastline, fjords and mountains offer up all kinds of unforgettable adventures.

A geological wonderland, its ginormous glaciers, valleys, and rock formations cover a massive part of the Kenai Peninsula. The aforementioned icefield, one of the largest in the US, dominates much of its territory with narrow strips of forests and vegetation lying around it.

Out on the ice, in its waters and on the park’s mountainsides, visitors can spot a myriad of amazing animals. These include not just bears and wolves but otters, sea lions, and whales too. In addition to exciting sightseeing cruises and helicopter rides, you can also hike, kayak, and camp in the park.

3. Klondike Gold Rush National Historic Park

Examining an important part of Alaska’s past is the brilliant Klondike Gold Rush National Historic Park in Skagway. As well as including almost all the small city’s historic downtown, it encompasses trails and mountain passes with another unit also being located in Seattle, Washington.

When gold was discovered in Canada’s Yukon Territory in the late 1890s, thousands of prospectors set off to make their fortunes. As it was the closest port, the town’s population swelled considerably with stores, saloons, and offices springing up overnight. Some of these are remarkably still standing today such as Jeff Smith’s Parlor and the Mascot Saloon.

Aside from ambling around its atmospheric old buildings and railway depot, you can also head into the mountains where the prospectors passed. All these interesting historic sites provide a picture of what life was like back during the Klondike Gold Rush era.

2. Glacier Bay National Park

Not too far southwest of Skagway is another of the state’s many must-see nature spots: the gorgeous Glacier Bay National Park. Only accessible by boat, plane or kayak, its inhospitable icy reaches are ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in nature with nary another soul in sight.

Best known for its whopping great glaciers, the remote region was first surveyed in 1794 by George Vancouver of the HMS Discovery. Just under two hundred years later, a national park was founded to protect its deep fjords, scoured valleys, and soaring mountain peaks.

Those lucky enough to visit will find pristine landscapes and untouched wilderness with seals, orcas and whales often spotted in the surrounding waters. Grizzlies, caribou, and Dall sheep roam the park where some phenomenal hiking, kayaking, and camping can be had.

1. Denali National Park

The crown jewel of what Alaska has to offer however has to be Denali National Park. Besides being home to the nation’s highest peak, it boasts some unbelievable scenery and nature with divine views and wildlife on show wherever you go.

Unlike many of the vast state’s national parks, its forests and valleys, rivers, and mountain ranges are easily reached by road from Anchorage. Presiding over everything is, of course, the majestic Denali which towers 20,310 feet tall and is almost completely covered in sparkling snow.

While a handful of hardy adventurers sometimes manage to summit the mighty mount, most people content themselves with hiking about the park’s scenic confines. As you amble along its trails, you’ll often see traces of bears and wolves, or spot caribou and moose far off in the distance.

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The Best Things to Do in Alaska

Alaska’s 586,000 square miles, nearly 7,000 miles of coastline, and eight national parks offer a nearly overwhelming number of great things to do. this around-the-state list would take weeks—or even months—to complete. so put it to use to dream, to figure out an epic trip, or to plan your next several adventures around the 49th state. whether you crave adrenaline-pumping adventure, tales from history, a road trip to beat all road trips, or the chance to take photos of creatures great and small, alaska is ready for you. watch grizzlies amble by from the comfort of a tour bus in denali national park. listen to the snap and crash of a calving glacier while in kenai fjords national park. paddle around icebergs on mendenhall lake. and see art inspired by alaska at the anchorage museum and the alaska museum of the north..

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25 Best Things to Do in Alaska

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

Whether you visit Alaska by land or by sea, you can see all sorts of fascinating sights even before you arrive in the state. Once you're in Alaska, though, you'll find plenty of things to do for all ages and interests, from taking a cruise to see glaciers and whales to hiking through the pristine wilderness of the state's many parks and nature preserves. While you may want to arrive in a city like Anchorage, Juneau, or Fairbanks, don't miss the chance to explore more remote locations like Whittier, Talkeetna, or Sitka to explore more of the culture of this remarkable state.

Visit Denali National Park

TripSavvy / Alisha McDarris

The highest peak in North America is the top of Denali, which towers over the national park of the same name at 20,310 feet. Previously known as Mount McKinley to many Americans, Alaskans have always referred to this great peak by its native name which means "tall" or "high." In 2015, the federal government under President Obama officially changed the name back to Denali. It's a great sight to see on its own, but you can also take a bus tour of the park to see wildlife like grizzly bears, moose, caribou, Dall sheep, and wolves. Meanwhile, the varied colors of the park's lakes and rivers, geologic formations, and tundra landscape provide a gorgeous backdrop to your journey.

Before your adventure, spend some time at the Denali Visitor Center, located at the park's northeast entrance, to learn about the seasons and the natural history of Denali and to get information about available park tours, activities, and recreation opportunities.

Cruise Through Kenai Fjords National Park

To see the marine life of Alaska, take a day cruise through Kenai Fjords National Park near the small town of Seward, just 120 miles from Anchorage on Alaska's south-central coast. Established in 1980, Kenai Fjords National Park covers approximately 670,000 acres and is home to a variety of wildlife, including otters, puffins, harbor seals, bald eagles, sea stars, orcas, Minke whales, and Dall's porpoises. The park is also home to one of the largest ice fields in the United States, Harding Icefield, and a plethora of stunning mountain scenery as well as hanging and tidewater glaciers.

Cruises operated by Celebrity Cruises, Holland America Line, and Royal Caribbean all depart from the Seward port almost daily from March through September each year. Day cruises travel through the park via Resurrection Bay and typically last between four and nine hours.

Tour the Museum of the North in Fairbanks

Located on the University of Alaska Fairbanks campus, the Museum of the North is a world-class museum stuffed with fascinating exhibits covering Alaska's history, art, and culture. The Gallery of Alaska covers each region of the state, addressing both human and natural history with highlights including mammoths, mastodons, gold, and gold nuggets. Also, the Alaska Classics art gallery features historical paintings while the Rose Berry Alaska Art Gallery upstairs focuses on contemporary Alaskan art. While you're there, don't miss the movies at the Museum of the North's theater, particularly "Arctic Currents: A Year in the Life of the Bowhead Whale," an animated film detailing the migratory patterns of these magnificent aquatic creatures.

The Museum of the North is open Monday through Saturday during the winter season (September 1 through May 31) and daily during the summer (June 1 to August 31) but is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day , and New Year's Day.

Relive History at Sitka National Historical Park

Courtesy of Sitka National Historical Park 

Sitka National Historical Park, Alaska's oldest national park, is located on the east side of Sitka , a popular port of call for Inside Passage cruises . Dedicated to the preservation of the history of native Tlingit and Russian experiences in Alaska, this historical park commemorates the site of the Battle of 1804 between local Tlingit Indians and Russian colonists. Begin at the park's visitor center, where you'll explore exhibits on historic and modern totem poles, Russian and Native artifacts, and temperate ​rainforest and beaches, but make sure to stick around for ranger-guided tours through history. Follow that with a walking tour of the Russian Bishop's House and a hike along the Totem Trail.

Sitka National Park is open daily throughout the year from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., but the Visitor's Center is only open from May through September. Additionally, tours are only available to the general public from May through September and by appointment only during the "winter" season from October through April.

Visit the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park

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The 1898 Klondike Gold Rush was a colorful yet somber episode in North American history when thousands came to the west coast hoping to strike it rich mining for gold. With units scattered throughout Alaska, and even one in Seattle, Washington, the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park is dedicated to this period of North American History, and the main visitor's center for this park is located in the town of Skagway, Alaska. The visitor center offers a gripping film covering the terrible hardships and rare triumphs of the men and women who were part of the great rush, with a focus on those who passed through Skagway on their way over the Chilkoot Pass. After checking out the film, exhibits, and bookshop at the visitor center, you can hook up with a ranger-led tour of downtown Skagway and its many historic Gold-Rush-era buildings.

Although limited services are available from October 1 through April 15 in Skagway, the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park is open year-round, offering daily activities Monday through Friday every week. Intrepid travelers can also embark on a snowshoe trek or cross-country ski trip through the park on their own.

Check Out the Anchorage Museum

The Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center combines several museums in one location, covering Alaska's art, history, ethnography, ecology, and science all at once. Visitors can view contemporary and traditional art, learn about the state's history and native peoples, view amazing presentations at the Thomas Planetarium, and participate in hands-on activities throughout the museum. The Smithsonian Arctic Studies Center, a collection on loan from the Smithsonian, is a particularly fascinating display of artifacts from Native Alaskan and other Arctic cultures. Kids will love the Imaginarium Discovery Center, which moved into the Anchorage Museum in 2010. Anchorage Museum services include a cafe, gift shop, and guided tours.

The Anchorage Museum is open daily from May 1 through September 30 but is closed on Mondays from October 1 through April 30 each year. While free for museum members, admission to the museum ranges in price for Alaskan residents as well as visiting adults, children aged 3 to 12, students, military, and seniors. Additionally, the museum offers free admission on the first Friday of each month.

Learn History at the Alaska State Museum

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Located in the capital city of Juneau , the Alaska State Museum is the official museum of history and culture for the state. While particularly well-known for its presentation of Native Alaskan traditions associated with the Aleut, Athabaskan, Eskimo, and Northwest Coast people, the museum also explores early Russian, European, and American settlement as well as gold rush and mining history through its permanent collection. Rebuilt from scratch between 2014 and 2016, the museum building, known as the Father Andrew P. Kashevaroff (APK) Building, also houses the Alaska State Archives and the Alaska State Library.

The Alaska State Museum is open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the fall through spring seasons and open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the summer. Admission is free on the first Friday of every month from 4:30 to 7 p.m.

Take a Boat to Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve

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There are a number of ways to experience Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, which is located off the southern Alaskan coast near Juneau, but the only ways to access it are by plane or boat. Many people visit Glacier Bay as part of an Alaska Inside Passage cruise, and day-long boat tours of the park are also available from Juneau and other southern Alaskan communities near the 3.3-million-acre park. As you make the chill and quiet journey through the fingers and inlets of Glacier Bay, you'll have the chance to see several major tidewater glaciers as well as a variety of wildlife. The area around the town of Gustavus, at the southern end of Glacier Bay National Park, offers most of the amenities for land-based adventure, including the park headquarters, visitor center, accommodations , and a small airport offering 30-minute flights to Juneau.

While Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve is open year-round, services in the winter are extremely limited, and the Visitor's Center and Visitor's Information Station for Boaters and Campers are only open from May through early September. Boat tour and cruise availability also vary by season.

Take a Tour on the Riverboat Discovery

Departing out of Fairbanks, the grand Riverboat Discovery will take you on a scenic tour of the Chena and Tanana Rivers, and along the way, you'll learn about the contemporary and traditional ways of life in Alaska. You'll stop in front of the home and kennels of the late Susan Butcher to find out about the sled dogs, and an Athabaskan fish camp is another stop, where you'll learn about the harvest, preparation, smoking, and storage of salmon. The highlight of the trip is the Chena Indian Village , where you can get off the Riverboat Discovery and explore an Athabaskan village to get an up-close look at the gear, dwellings, and animals that are a part of their culture. The cruise takes about three and a half hours and starts and ends at a large gift shop in the port of Fairbanks.

Riverboat Discovery tours operate from May through September each year with services departing daily at 8:45 a.m. and 2 p.m. Reservations are required to embark on the journey, and spots sometimes fill up during the busy season.

Mendenhall Glacier in Juneau

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Located just 12 miles outside of Juneau, Mendenhall Glacier fills Mendenhall Valley before terminating into and forming Mendenhall Lake. The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center overlooks the glacier, providing warm and sheltered views of this natural wonder, and offers exhibits and films about the science and history of glaciation in the region. A number of trails, most of which start near the visitor center, allow you to view the 13-mile length of the glacier as well as the surrounding deglaciated landscape and wildlife.

The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor's Center is open daily from May 1 through September 25, including on holidays, but is only open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from October through April. However, the Tongass National Forest, which manages the trails around the glacier itself, is open to visitors year-round.

Enjoy Outdoor Recreation Near Valdez

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The small, picturesque city of Valdez on Alaska's southern coast is a great place to enjoy outdoor adventures no matter what time of year you visit. Offering everything from rafting and backcountry hiking to ice climbing and helicopter tours, the surrounding wilderness outside of Valdez also includes several glaciers and waterfalls in Chugach National Forest and the Prince William Sound. While you're in Valdez, explore Keystone Canyon and the Worthington Glacier State Recreation Site or take part in one of the town's famous fishing derbies, which rewards the biggest halibut and silver salmon catches with cash prizes.

Island Hop in Ketchikan

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Located near British Columbia at the southern tip of Alaska, the city of Ketchikan was built among a series of islands and inlets right along the waterfront of Alaska's Inside Passage. Known for its many Native American totem poles on display throughout the town and in the Totem Heritage Center, the largest display of totem poles in the world, the city of Ketchikan is also close to a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities in Misty Fiords National Monument , a glacier-carved mountain featuring a variety of waterfalls and salmon-spawning streams.

See the Northern Lights in Fairbanks or Barrow

Thanks to its location in northern Alaska, just 150 miles south of the Arctic Circle, Fairbanks is one of the best places in the state to view the Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights. Tours are available in Fairbanks to viewing areas like Chena Lake or the Murphy Dome, but you can also take a four-wheel-drive into the surrounding countryside to see the lights yourself.

Meanwhile, the remote northern town of Barrow , located 330 miles north of the Arctic Circle, offers a slightly different experience for your trip to see the Aurora Borealis. Home to the native Inupiat culture, which is known for its traditional use of dogsledding, Barrow's views of the Aurora show are unparalleled in the state. However, you'll have to endure negative temperatures almost year-round to see them here.

Celebrate the Iditarod Dog Sled Race in Nome

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Found on the central west coast of Alaska on Norton Sound of the Bering Sea, the small city of Nome is best-known as the end for the annual Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, which travels over 1,000 miles from Anchorage to Nome in early March each year. However, the city also boasts a rich history of gold mining thanks to the Klondike Gold Rush and offers a variety of outdoor adventures in the surrounding wilderness year-round, so even if you're not in town for the dogsled race, there's still plenty to do in Nome any time you visit.

Drive to Canada on the Alaskan Highway

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Stretching all the way from Delta Junction (near Fairbanks) to Dawson Creek in British Columbia, Canada, the Alaska-Canada Highway, also known as the Alcan Highway, is a great way to see the wilderness of the region up close. However, the Alaska Highway only includes 200 miles of roadway in Alaska; most of the 1,520 miles of highway are located in the Yukon Territory and British Columbia, so you won't get too far unless you have a valid passport or passport card for crossing the border into Canada.

Celebrate Culture at the Alaska Native Heritage Center

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Just outside the city of Anchorage, the Alaska Native Heritage Center provides hands-on educational interaction with music, art, and people of the 11 major cultural groups of Alaska. While you're there, see Alaska Native dancing, singing, storytelling, and game demonstrations at the Gathering Place; explore exhibits and demonstrating Alaska Native artists at the Hall of Cultures, and watch a variety of movies about the different cultural groups at the Theatre.

The highlight of the Heritage Center, though, are the six life-sized Native dwellings located alongside Lake Tiulana in a wooded area outside the center itself, where guests can see the way the Athabascan, Inupiaq/St. Lawrence Island Yupik, Yup’ik/Cup’ik, Aleut, Alutiiq, and the Eyak, Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian people live.

Ride on the Alaska Railroad

Extending from Seward to Fairbanks, the Alaska Railroad was a vital part of Alaska's history and the development of the city of Anchorage from a small tent town into a major urban hub, and it still serves as a vital transportation option for over 550,000 travelers a year. Popular stops along the route include the Denali National Park, the Chugach National Forest, the city of Anchorage, and a variety of smaller towns and native villages. Alaska Railroad also offers a variety of special event rides throughout the year, including the kid's Halloween Train and backcountry ski packages in the winter.

See the Animals at the Kroschel Wildlife Center

Courtesy of Kroschel Wildlife Center

Owned and operated by independent filmmaker Steve Kroschel, the Kroschel Wildlife Center is a nature preserve 28 miles outside the city of Haines , which is located in the northern part of the Alaska Panhandle. Kroschel and a dedicated staff personally take care of abandoned or orphaned wild animals in the center, allowing these creatures to roam loose on the property in their natural environment. Visitors can wander down 600 yards of curated trails through the center to encounter 15 native Alaskan species including moose, wolves, lynx, grizzly bears, reindeer, owls.

Touch the Sea Life at the Kodiak Fisheries Research Center

Courtesy of Kodiak Fisheries Research Center

Located on Kodiak Island off the southern coast of Alaska, the Kodiak Fisheries Research Center is a 45,937-square-foot multi-agency laboratory and office building that offers visitors a chance to touch the aquatic life from the Kodiak Island waterways . Featuring a 3,500-gallon touch-tank in its Interpretive Center that houses crabs, shrimp, snails, starfish, and various fish species, the research center allows guests to get a hands-on education about marine life. You can also tour the facility to learn from marine scientists firsthand.

Stay Cool at the Aurora Ice Museum

Created from over 1,000 tons of ice and snow, the Aurora Ice Museum is a year-round destination for winter fun that's located inside the Chena Hot Springs Resort in Fairbanks . Take a tour of the museum to see unique ice sculptures, including three entire rooms, carved out of ice, made by world-famous champion carvers Steve and Heather Brice. Tours of the museum are offered every day of the year at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m, 5 p.m., and 7 p.m.

Go Whale Watching in Juneau

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The city of Juneau isn't just the capital of Alaska, it's also one of the best places in the state to embark on a whale-watching tour. Start your journey on a 25-mile bus trip from the Mount Roberts Tram parking lot to the Auke Bay Harbor , and then board a ferry boat that will take you on a three-hour trip around the bay. During your journey, you'll see a variety of wildlife including bald eagles, seals, sea lions, orcas, and, the star of the tour, humpback whales.

Visit the Santa Claus House in North Pole

Known for its year-round Christmas decorations and the famous Santa Claus House Christmas store, the small Alaskan city of North Pole is located just 14 miles outside of Fairbanks. No matter what time of year you visit, you can get into the holiday spirit at this unique shop, which is home to the world's largest Santa Claus statue and a variety of unique holiday-themed gifts, decorations, and treats.

Explore Whittier

Established as a military supply post during World War II, the small town of Whittier is a unique destination because most of the city's residents live in just one building: Begich Towers. Located about 60 miles southeast of Anchorage, Whittier is accessible by train or car through the longest tunnel in North America, the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel , which runes 13,000 feet under an entire mountain; however, you can also take a boat into the seaport. Along with visiting the Prince William Sound Museum in town, you can explore the Portage Pass Trail or Emerald Cove Trail outside of town to hike through glaciers and over the pristine landscape of Alaska.

Discover the Ghost Town of Kennicott

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Once home to a thriving copper mine, the town of Kennicott is almost completely deserted, with a population of just a couple dozen people who work at the local lodges, restaurants, and bars that still serve guests year-round. Located in southwestern Alaska's Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve , Kennicott is only accessible on foot by taking a four-mile hike along a gravel road. However, there are numerous adventure services available that also take you nearby, including flight-seeing around the Wrangell Mountain Range, rafting and mountaineering treks, and guided historic and wilderness tours.

Ride the Talkeetna Air Taxi

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One of the best ways to see the most of Alaska's wilderness is to take a charter flight aboard a small plane or helicopter. The Talkeetna Air Taxi provides this service on its 10 safe and modern aircraft. Departing from the small town of Talkeetna , which was established during Alaska's Klondike Gold Rush in the late 1890s and offers a number of historic attractions and locally-owned shops, the Air Taxi trip takes visitors on a low-altitude flight over Denali National Park. Halfway through your flight, you'll also land on a glacier, which is usually only accessible via a long and arduous hike up Denali.

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Unforgettable things to do in alaska: 31 alaska adventures.

If you’re looking for an exciting adventure, consider exploring the mesmerizing wonders of Alaska! With towering mountains, breathtaking glaciers, and vibrant wildlife, this extraordinary destination offers a wealth of unforgettable experiences. Below, you’ll unveil a treasure trove of thrilling things to do in Alaska.

You might explore vast national parks, witness the mystical dance of the Northern Lights, or encounter majestic creatures in their natural habitats! Immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of Alaska with the top things to do in this glorious state.

We love Alaska! Our family had the amazing opportunity to spend a summer in Alaska and were able to see and do so many incredible things. Alaska is a state unlike any we’ve ever visited and we can’t wait to back and explore even more. I’ve shared some of our favorite things to do in Alaska below.

• Planning Your Trip to Alaska

If you want an easy way to plan your trip to Alaska, check out our guide that will take you step by step and day by day through your time in Alaska.

• Getting Around Alaska

When you visit Alaska, you will HAVE to rent a car unless you’re going with a guided group. It’s just too vast with no public transportation to the places you’ll want to see.

If you’re renting a car, there are two companies we prefer to use: Rental Cars and Expedia Cars. We have had no issues with them and have been able to find the best prices available.

Here's a Short Cut

30 of the Best Alaska Tourist Attractions

1. explore kenai peninsula, 2. learn about alaska’s history at the alaska native heritage center, 3. go wildlife watching in denali national park, 4. soak in natural hot springs at chena resort, 5. see the northern lights, 6. see the world’s largest chocolate waterfall, 7. visit the smallest national forest, 8. stop by the aurora ice museum, 9. take a road trip along the seward highway, 10. take a ride on the alaska railroad, 11. see the animals at the alaska wildlife conservation center, 12. fountainhead antique auto museum, 13. experience glacier bay national park and preserve, 14. see hubbard glacier at wrangell-st. elias national park, 15. glimpse humpback whales on a whale watching cruise, 16. university of alaska museum of the north, 17. explore the alaska raptor center, 18. totem bight state historical park, 19. immerse yourself in the wilderness of the misty fjords, 20. visit the alaska sealife center, 21. visit the harding icefield in kenai fjords national park, 22. go bear watching at katmai national park, 23. visit the gates of the arctic national park and preserve, 24. cruise the inside passage, 25. visit the mendenhall glacier, 26. see live totem carving at sitka national historical park, 27. klondike gold rush national historical park, 28. visit the santa claus house in north pole, alaska, 29. take a farm tour at musk ox farm, 30. see the eldred rock lighthouse, 31. visit a reindeer farm in palmer, 31. go fishing, what is alaska famous for, what is the best time of year to visit alaska, what are the most popular cities in alaska, explore alaska, the last frontier.

What is there to do in Alaska? There’s truly something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history and native cultures or native wildlife and outdoor adventures! Here are just 30 of the best places to visit in Alaska.

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Located in south-central Alaska, the Kenai Peninsula is a beautiful rural region popular for its variety of outdoor activities. One of the most popular destinations on the Alaskan peninsula is the charming town of Seward. This is where most people embark on cruises through Kenai Fjords National Park (more on that below!).

Fishing enthusiasts flock to the town of Homer, dubbed the “Halibut Fishing Capital of the World.’ Besides top-notch fishing opportunities, it’s generally a great place to visit for low-key tourism. You can go birdwatching and beachcombing And the iconic Homer Spit features shops, restaurants, and panoramic views of Kachemak Bay.

For more things to do in Kenai, the Kenai Peninsula is a great place to go hiking. It boasts popular trails like the Harding Icefield Trail in Exit Glacier, the Russian River Falls Trail, and Resurrection Pass Trail are also popular options.

Located in Anchorage, visiting the Alaska Native Heritage Center is one of the best things to do in Alaska if you’re interested in the rich history and traditions of the region. Walking through this cultural institution provides an immersive experience into the rich traditions of Alaska’s indigenous peoples.

Native Alaskan cultures are showcased through indoor and outdoor exhibits, performances, and interactive activities. You’ll witness captivating traditional dances, listen to ancestral stories, and watch demonstrations. The crown jewel of the Alaska Native Heritage Center is the village exhibits, which represent various Native Alaskan groups.

The center purposefully employs Native Alaskans, including young people. They offer free daily tours, and everything is free admission. They also work with Anchorage Trolley Tours to offer shuttles from downtown Anchorage, but you must book online in advance .

Denali National Park and Preserve, located in Alaska’s interior, is a whopping 6-million-acre wilderness and home to Denali, North America’s tallest peak! With its vast landscapes and diverse ecosystems, the park offers an array of unforgettable experiences.

There’s a single road that runs through Denali National Park with intermittent campsites, trailheads, and visitor centers. To keep traffic along the road clear, past mile 15 of the 89-mile road, you must travel by bus, bicycle, or on foot! Transit buses are available along the park’s scenic road, or you can also take narrated tour buses from the main visitor center.

Tour buses are half-day experiences and provide visitors with opportunities to spot iconic wildlife such as grizzly bears, wolves, moose, and caribou. The visitor center also features educational exhibits on the park’s flora, fauna, and geological history.

Denali Park hiking trails cater to all skill levels. For more experienced thrill seekers, there are also mountaineering and backcountry camping opportunities. This is just another way to closer exploration of Denali’s unique subarctic ecosystem. Wildlife photography, birdwatching, and fishing are also popular pursuits.

Chena Hot Springs Resort is a must-visit destination outside of Fairbanks, Alaska. Come relax and rejuvenate in its natural hot springs, known for their therapeutic properties. Guests can book day passes to the hot springs or book a stay. The property offers all kinds of accommodations, including rooms, family suites, cabins, yurts, and more!

Also, the resort is located in an ideal spot for viewing the Northern Lights! Away from city lights, visitors have a higher chance of witnessing the dancing colors of the aurora borealis in the clear night skies.

During your stay at Chena Hot Springs Resort, there are a variety of fun activities to try each season! Go dog sledding and snowmobiling in winter or hiking and horseback riding in summer. And you can feel good about supporting the resort, which is committed to sustainability and showcases alternative energy sources.

One of the top tourist attractions in Alaska is the Northern Lights. With its location within the “Murphy Dome,” most people start in Fairbanks for the best chances. Escape the city lights by heading to remote areas like the Chena Hot Springs Resort or the University of Alaska Fairbanks campus.

Optimal viewing times are during the dark winter months, from September to April. You’ll need to keep an eye on local weather and aurora forecasts. Or leave everything up to the professionals and book a guide! From Fairbanks (and the North Pole), this full-day small group tour offers transportation from local hotels. Spend the day soaking in the hot springs, visiting the Aurora Ice Museum, and getting the best views of the aurora borealis.

If you’re going to be in Anchorage, don’t pass up one of the most unique things to do in Alaska. At Alaska Wild Berry Products , you can see the world’s largest chocolate waterfall! This family-owned business creates an array of mouthwatering delights, including wild berry jams, chocolates, and candies made with local ingredients.

Check out the falls, indulge in delectable chocolate-covered berries, and explore the huge gift shop for Alaskan-themed gifts. You can also watch Alaska Wild Berry Products being made through an observation window and read an educational display about their process.

The store is open to visitors Monday through Saturday from 10 AM to 7 PM. On Sundays, stop by between 11 AM and 6 PM.

Located on Adak Island is a hidden gem and one of the more unique Alaska landmarks. This rural, rugged island is part of Alaska’s Aleutian Islands in the Bering Sea between North America and Asia. This is where the Adak National Forest is located, though it only consists of 33 pine trees and isn’t recognized by the parks department!

The story goes that during World War II, Adak Island served as a strategic military outpost. The unforgiving, harsh conditions of the island left soldiers in poor spirits. An army general came up with the idea to start a Christmas tree-planting program to boost morale.

While the program went on for a few years, and the island remained a base through the Cold War, trees don’t naturally grow on Adak Island. Somehow, against all odds, 33 trees remain. Along the way, a soldier put up a sign that reads “You are entering and leaving Adak National Forest” as a joke.

If you find your way to the Aleutian Islands, you can see the “forest” and the sign for yourself (though there’s not much else out there to see). And if you’re there at Christmas, you’ll get to experience the tradition of locals decorating the trees for the holidays!

If you plan to visit the Chena Hot Springs Resort, make sure to stop by the Aurora Ice Museum for a fun and whimsical experience. This one-of-a-kind attraction showcases masterfully sculpted ice art in a unique ice-carved structure. You see the site through daily tours, which take place about every 2 hours and cost a small fee per visitor.

Inside, you’ll see ice sculptures, intricate chandeliers, and more on your own. Then your guide will make you a drink at an ice bar where beverages are served with glasses made entirely of ice! The museum is maintained at a constant (chilly) temperature, ensuring the preservation of the intricate ice creations.

Taking a road trip along the Seward Highway is one of the best things to do in Alaska in the summer. This highway stretches 125 miles from Anchorage to Seward on Kenai Peninsula, winding along the coast of the Turnagain Arm and passing through the Chugach National Forest.

The highway offers awe-inspiring scenery, winding alongside majestic mountains, glaciers, and the picturesque Turnagain Arm. The summer months provide longer daylight hours, allowing extra time to soak in the views.

Along the way, you have access to various attractions and outdoor activities, including hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and opportunities for fishing and boating. Portage Glacier, just off the highway, offers boat tours to get up close to the glacier’s face. Another excellent stop is the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.

And the Seward Highway serves as the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park in Seward. Here, you can take boat tours from Seward to explore the park’s majestic glaciers, spot marine wildlife like whales and sea lions, and immerse yourself in the rugged coastal landscapes.

Or for travelers seeking to explore the vast wilderness of Alaska and Canada, you could take the Alaska-Canada Highway. Also known as the Alcan Highway, this iconic highway stretches over 1,387 miles, connecting Dawson Creek in British Columbia, Canada, to Delta Junction in Alaska.

If you don’t want to drive but you’re looking for an unforgettable travel experience, consider booking a ticket on the scenic Alaska Railroad ! This 100-year-old rail line covers almost 500 miles between Seward and Fairbanks. It connects some of Alaska’s most spectacular landscapes, including towering mountains, virgin wilderness, and gorgeous coastal areas.

A must-do in Alaska, the route consists of 5 different connecting routes that showcase iconic destinations like Denali National Park, Anchorage, and Seward. You can relax and take in the awe-inspiring views from large panoramic windows or get off and explore different stops along the way!

Riding the railroad allows you to witness the grandeur of Alaska’s vast wilderness while enjoying the convenience of transportation. Whether it’s a short scenic ride or a multi-day adventure, a trip on the Alaska Railroad is an unforgettable way to experience Alaska.

The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (AWCC) is a remarkable place dedicated to the preservation and rehabilitation of Alaska’s local wildlife. You can visit this non-profit organization for an up-close and personal experience with a variety of Alaska’s most iconic animals, including brown bears, moose, and caribou.

Located in Portage, Alaska, the center provides spacious enclosures and natural habitats that prioritize the well-being and comfort of the animals. Choose between exploring AWCC’s exhibits and trails at your own pace, or booking one of the many daily guided walking tours for an additional fee. Tours are unforgettable experiences where you’ll learn about the animals and the conservation efforts being made, as well as feed an animal!

A visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is one of the top things to do in Alaska and you can visit year-round. Or for those who will be traveling near Juneau and want to support wildlife conservation, the Kroschel Wildlife Center is a great alternative. At this private facility, you can enjoy a hands-on experience with rescued and rehabilitated animals, like wolves, lynx, and more.

The Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum in Fairbanks is ideal for automobile enthusiasts (or anyone else!) vacationing in Alaska. This unique museum boasts a remarkable collection of beautifully restored antique automobiles from the 19th and 20th centuries. Visitors can explore a diverse range of vintage vehicles, including classic cars, horseless carriages, and iconic luxury automobiles.

Through exhibits featuring stunning period clothing, you’ll learn about the history of automotive engineering. It’s an immersive experience, as you walk through the evolution of transportation and see the impact of automobiles on society!

During the summer, the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum is open 7 days a week from 11 AM to 5 PM. Mid-September through mid-May, it’s only open on Sundays and Wednesdays from noon to 4 PM. There’s a small admission fee and children under 5 are free.

A visit to Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve promises nature lovers an unforgettable adventure into one of Alaska’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a dramatic landscape of towering glaciers, mountains, and pristine fjords.

A top Alaska tourist attraction near the city of Juneau, there are tons of ways to explore Glacier Bay National Park. You can see the park by boat or kayak. And during the summer, day cruises leave Bartlett Cove . Nothing is more magical than watching the majestic creation of glaciers and encountering humpback whales, sea otters, and more!

You can go camping or stay at one of the campsites at Bartlett Cove or enjoy the view from your room at Glacier Bay Lodge. And there are a variety of hiking trails that you can explore and see the park’s lush rainforests. The park also offers summertime nature walks and education programs led by park rangers.

For experienced outdoor enthusiasts, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is a wonderland of self-guided activities. The rugged and wild landscape is prime for epic backpacking, mountaineering, hunting, and fishing adventures! But perhaps the most popular thing to do at Wrangell-St. Elias is seeing the Hubbard Glacier.

While it’s one of many impressive glaciers inside the park, the Hubbard Glacier is especially breathtaking. At around 76 miles long, it’s the largest tidewater glacier in North America, with a 6-mile face that opens up onto Yakutat Bay to the south.

The Hubbard Glacier is a spectacular experience, with towering icy blue walls and thunderous cracks as massive chunks of ice calve into the water below! The only way to see it is by boat tour or plane tour out of Yakutat. On a boat tour , you can get closer to the glacier for unparalleled views.

One of the top things to do in Alaska is seeing Humpback Whales. It’s also one of the most popular activities for first-time visitors to the state. You can book an Alaska cruise liner or go on a shorter whale watching excursion. Look for cruises in areas known for high whale activity, like Juneau, Seward, or the Inside Passage. This 3.5-hour expedition out of Juneau is an excellent choice.

Once you’re on your cruise, your guides will provide quality information about the whales. Keep your eyes peeled for telltale signs of whales, such as spouts, breaches, or flukes! Just be patient and observant, because they can surface unexpectedly. Bring binoculars for better viewing and a camera to capture all the memories!

If you’re going to be in Fairbanks, you must plan a visit to the University of Alaska Museum of the North and learn about all things Alaska! It’s a natural history museum on the college campus where you can explore Alaska’s natural and cultural heritage.

This place has it all, from fascinating exhibits on the state’s diverse ecosystems and epic geological formations to ancient artifacts and dinosaur fossils. It’s like stepping into a time machine and getting up close with Alaska’s past and present. You can check out taxidermy animals or artwork by local artists. The Museum of the North is interactive and great for all ages.

For more fun things to do in Alaska around local wildlife, there’s the Alaska Raptor Center . You’ll find the renowned rehabilitation center in Sitka, Alaska. This non-profit organization provides a safe haven for injured, sick, and orphaned birds of prey.

When you visit the Alaska Raptor Center, you can observe bald eagles, owls, hawks, and falcons up close! The center’s passionate staff and volunteers offer guided tours, where you’ll learn about the birds’ history and the challenges they face. You’ll also learn about the rehabilitation process and the efforts made to release the birds back into the wild.

Many of the center’s birds are permanent residents, unable to be released because of their injuries. Instead, they work as ambassadors, helping to educate visitors about the importance of raptor conservation in Alaska. There’s an admission fee and the center is open every day of the week from 8 AM to 4 PM.

While considering what to see in Alaska, it’s important to recognize native Alaskan cultures. The captivating Totem Bight State Historical Park in Ketchikan, Alaska is a true gem for those seeking a deeper understanding of the earliest people of Alaska. For most people, this is a stop on a cruise. But you can also book a tour of the park and Ketchikan City to learn more about Alaskan history in this southern region.

The park is perfect for a nature walk through an old-growth rainforest. Trails showcase a collection of intricately carved totem poles and traditional “big houses” that tell the stories of the region’s indigenous peoples. As you stroll along the nature trails, keep an eye out for majestic bald eagles and enjoy stunning views of the ocean and nearby islands! There’s a small fee for entry to the park.

Misty Fjords National Monument Wilderness, located in the southeastern part of Alaska, is a wilderness area and part of the Tongass National Forest. It’s a bucket list destination for outdoor enthusiasts because of its towering granite cliffs, mist-shrouded fjords, cascading waterfalls, and dense forests.

The monument spans over 2.3 million acres and offers a paradise for experienced nature lovers seeking a challenge! When you visit Misty Fjords, you’ll be surrounded by raw, untouched nature. The area is only accessible by boat or seaplane tours , so it’s perfect if you’re seeking a remote and serene space to explore.

If you’re interested in guided hikes, you can find several different companies based in Ketchikan that offer them. Hikes are a great way for skilled trekkers to see local wildlife, including wolves, seals, and bald eagles. Or go kayaking and explore the glassy lakes and rivers.

You might be seeking a kid-friendly outing, or perhaps you’re simply interested in local marine life. Either way, the Alaska SeaLife Center is a must-see in Alaska for all visitors. Located in Seward, the aquarium combines education, conservation, and the incredible ocean life of Alaska’s waters.

The Alaska SeaLife Center is a great place to witness a diverse array of captivating creatures up close. From playful seals and adorable sea otters to mesmerizing jellyfish and majestic sea lions, there is an abundance of marine life to discover! Enjoy educational presentations by staff or have fun in the children’s section.

Keep in mind that you’re required to purchase timed tickets online in advance of your visit. Also, the center holds different hours in each season.

For hikers, one of the best things to do in Alaska is challenge yourself with a rewarding hike to see the Harding Icefield inside Kenai Fjords National Park! The trailhead is located just outside of Seward and is a strenuous route that covers 8.2 miles out and back.

As you hike along the trails, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views and possibly see local wildlife (bring bear spray). But the highlight is when you finally reach the expansive icefield, stretching as far as the eye can see! The sheer size and beauty of the icefield will leave you in awe.

The Harding Icefield offers an unforgettable opportunity to witness the power and majesty of nature. Just be sure that you’re prepared for such a challenge and come prepared with proper hiking gear and enough time for the trek. But the effort is well worth it!

But the best way to see Kenai Fjords National Park is by boat. Take a boat tour and see glaciers, whales, seals, puffins, and more during your time onboard. This was my family’s favorite thing to do in Alaska. Seeing the humpback whales up close like that was incredible. If you’re lucky you might even get to see some Orcas.

If you want to know where to go in Alaska to see brown bears, Katmai National Park is it! Located in southwestern Alaska, the national park is renowned for its abundant population of brown bears. The bears gather along the Brooks River during the summer salmon run (July through September). This is your best opportunity to see the majestic creatures.

Head to Brooks Camp to witness the bears in their natural habitat, as they fish for salmon and interact with each other. Katmai’s platforms and viewing areas provide safe vantage points for observing the bears up close, while also maintaining a respectful distance.

There are more areas of the park where you can see the bears at different times of the year. If you want to book an official guide that offers safe bear-viewing trips, the park keeps a list of trip providers here .

For adventurers seeking untouched landscapes, taking on Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve is one of the best things to do in Alaska. This vast and rugged park spans over 8 million acres! And as the northernmost national park in the US, it sits entirely within the Arctic Circle.

While there are no designated trails or visitor facilities, the park is completely available for outdoor activities. Hiking and backpacking are popular. You can explore the park’s stunning terrain and glimpse animals like caribou, grizzly bears, and Dall sheep.

If you’re interested in backcountry camping, you can choose between established campsites and remote wilderness camping. And Arctic National Park is also a dream destination for photography enthusiasts. They come to capture soaring peaks and rolling tundra under the midnight sun!

If you’re considering a cruise to Alaska, you’ll find that touring the Inside Passage is one of the most popular things to do in Alaska for visitors. All the major cruise lines offer itineraries along this iconic route through Alaska’s stunning coastal landscapes.

Along the way, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife, including whales, seals, eagles, and porpoises! During your cruise, you’ll have the chance to visit coastal towns, experience Native Alaskan culture, and enjoy outdoor activities. If you get the opportunity to sail the Inside Passage, do it!

For even the most low-key tourists, you can experience the mesmerizing Mendenhall Glacier right outside Juneau, Alaska. This glacier is easily accessible and offers a stunning glimpse into the icy wonders of the region.

A convenient way to experience the glacier is by visiting the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center which overlooks Mendenhall Lake. Here, you can peruse exhibits, enjoy panoramic views, and watch educational presentations about the glacier and its surroundings.

From the visitor center, a short and scenic walk takes you to a viewpoint for admiring the glacier’s massive ice face and surrounding landscape. You can also explore nearby hiking trails, such as the Photo Point Trail, which offers excellent photo opportunities.

For a closer encounter with the glacier, you can go on a guided kayak tour . Or, if the conditions are just right, book an excursion within the Mendenhall ice caves!

Another opportunity to learn about Alaska’s indigenous peoples is at Sitka National Historical Park in Sitka, Alaska. This unique destination offers a glimpse into the artistic traditions that have shaped the Tlingit culture for centuries.

One of the highlights of the park is the live totem carving demonstrations. Skilled Tlingit artists create intricate totem poles, showcasing their craftsmanship and storytelling traditions. As you observe the carvers at work, you’ll learn about the ancient art, with its many symbols and designs. It’s a rare chance to witness a living tradition being passed down through generations.

In addition to the carving demonstration, Sitka National Historical Park offers a scenic setting with beautiful coastal trails and historic sites to explore. You can also see exhibits on Tlingit history and culture in the visitor center.

Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, located in Skagway, Alaska, is the most visited national park in Alaska. It commemorates the iconic Klondike Gold Rush of the late 1800s. Starting in the town of Skagway, stop by the visitor center and see interactive exhibits and short films that tell the stories of the gold seekers. Then, take some time to explore the preserved historic buildings along Broadway Street, which once served as a bustling hub during the gold rush.

But what makes this one of the most popular things to do in Alaska is the ghost town just north of Skagway! Park rangers offer tours out to the site, where you can see a few remaining structures from that wild era. And outdoor enthusiasts can explore scenic hikes in the area, such as the Chilkoot Trail.

Curious about places to go in Alaska with kids? You can’t miss the Santa Claus House in North Pole, Alaska! This place is all about Christmas magic, and you’ll find everything you need to make your holiday season extra special. Plan to spend an hour or more here. They’re open all year, from 10 AM to 6 PM daily.

Explore the gift shop, stocked with unique ornaments, decorations, and Santa-themed goodies. Don’t forget to meet Santa Claus himself and snap a memorable photo. Kids will love the reindeer corral across the street, where they can get up close with Santa’s furry friends. And if you’re craving something sweet, indulge in their famous homemade fudge or ice cream.

Tourism in Alaska centers around the national parks where you can enjoy wildlife watching. But for more intimate interactions, head to the farm! At the Musk Ox Farm in Palmer, you can learn about the conservation efforts and fascinating biology of musk oxen.

Guided tours allow you to observe these impressive creatures. You can even touch their soft qiviut, the fine wool that keeps them warm in Arctic conditions. Visiting this precious farm is a great way to learn about the importance of preserving this iconic species.

If your travels take you further north, there’s the Running Reindeer Ranch in Fairbanks. This farm provides an up-close experience with domesticated reindeer. Walk alongside these gentle animals on guided tours through the boreal forest. On tours, you’ll have the chance to feed, pet, and learn about the reindeer and their significance in indigenous cultures.

Both Musk Ox Farm and Running Reindeer Ranch offer unique opportunities to connect with some of Alaska’s most captivating creatures in a peaceful setting.

Eldred Rock Lighthouse, located near Haines, Alaska, is a historic landmark that offers a glimpse into Alaska’s past. This picturesque lighthouse, perched on a rocky island, has guided ships along the Lynn Canal since 1906. Although it is not open to the public, you can still appreciate its beauty and significance from a distance.

Sightseeing cruises, ferries, and boat tours in the area often pass by Eldred Rock, providing the perfect opportunity to admire the lighthouse. Standing tall amidst the rugged Alaskan coastline, the remote lighthouse makes for alluring and dramatic photographs.

Without a doubt, this was the coolest and closest encounter that we’ve had with Alaskan animals. I’d recommend it for any family trip to Alaska. Did you know that the only difference between reindeer and caribou is that reindeer are domesticated and caribou are wild?

You will learn so many other interesting facts about reindeer, caribou, elk, moose, and really anything with antlers! When we went, we even got to watch a baby moose being bottle-fed. It was the cutest thing ever! Your guide will take you into the reindeer stall and allow you to safely hand-feed the reindeer.

Alaska is one of the best places in the world to go fishing. Summer is the best time for fishing, especially salmon. Our family did several different kinds of fishing during our time in Alaska, including river fishing, fly fishing, and deep sea fishing. We loved taking our fish home and cooking it. The best way to go fishing in Alaska is to go with a local guide who knows the best spots. You’ll also need to make sure you get your fishing license when you arrive in Alaska.

FAQ about Visiting Alaska

Alaska is most famous for its breathtaking natural landscapes and untamed wilderness. Known as “The Last Frontier,” this vast state boasts mountains, glaciers, and unique wildlife. Alaska is home to national parks like Glacier Bay and Kenai Fjords, as well as Denali, the highest peak in North America! Something else that the state is famous for is its northern location with ideal opportunities to witness the Northern Lights. But that’s just the beginning of what this amazing state has to offer!

Summer in Alaska (June to August) is the most popular time to visit, with pleasant weather, longer daylight hours, and abundant wildlife. This is when you can enjoy activities like hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and cruising. But if you want to see the magical Aurora Borealis, the winter months (September to April) are when you’ll have your best chance. Whenever you choose to visit, keep in mind that Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable, and each season offers its own unique experiences.

The 3 most popular cities in Alaska are Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Juneau. Anchorage is Alaska’s largest city and offers a range of attractions, including museums, outdoor activities, and access to scenic areas. Fairbanks boasts a vibrant arts scene, a fascinating past, and opportunities to view the Northern Lights. And Juneau, the capital of Alaska. This city is the perfect base for exploring the Mendenhall Glacier and experiencing the cultural heritage of the region.

As you prepare for an Alaskan adventure, you can reflect on the incredible experiences and captivating beauty this land has to offer. From the vibrant cities of Anchorage and Juneau to the untouched wilderness of Denali National Park and Kenai Fjords, Alaska truly has it all.

You might seek thrilling outdoor adventures like hiking and kayaking or yearn to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of this great land. No matter what, Alaska delivers beyond expectations! As you explore national parks and stand in awe of the Northern Lights, you’ll be forever changed by the raw beauty surrounding you.

But Alaska isn’t just about the scenery. It’s about the people and their unique stories. Learn from the rich Native Alaskan cultures and embrace the traditions that shaped this land!

Wanderlust Crew

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25 Best Places to Visit in Alaska In 2024

Written By: The Planet D

United States

Updated On: June 11, 2024

Alaska, the final frontier of adventure travel is at the top of many bucket lists. The largest state in the United States is a destination that offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to experience the natural beauty and rugged wilderness of the Arctic. Alaska is a place that captures the imagination and the spirit of adventure . From the bustling city of Anchorage to the remote wilderness of Denali National Park, there is no shortage of places to visit in Alaska. And we’ve seen most of them.

Table of Contents

Top Places to Visit in Alaska

Alaska’s landscape is diverse, ranging from snow-capped mountains to glaciers, fjords, and an expanse of forests. We fell in love with Alaska the first time we visited in 2011 and when taking my parents on a Holland American Cruise last summer, we were thrilled to be able to share its beauty and introduce them.

Right Now, Hurtigruten Cruises is offering up to 50% off on select cruises worldwide. Find the  Expedition Cruise that suits your needs and save now!

When choosing your cruise or land tour through Alaska, it can be difficult to decide where to stop or what to see, so we’re rounding up some of the best places to visit in Alaska that we’ve been to help you plan your trip.

1. Denali National Park and Preserve

There are 17 national parks in Alaska, and Denali National Park and Preserve is certainly the most popular of them all. It cannot be seen from a cruise and needs to be added as a land tour or you can travel to it independently. This vast wilderness area is located in central Alaska and is home to North America’s highest peak, Denali (Mount McKinley) which stands at 6190 meters (20,310 feet),

One of the first things visitors usually do at this national park is to hop aboard converted school buses to enjoy a guided scenic tour in search of grizzly bears, moose, wolves, caribou, and Dall sheep.

We took this ATV adventure which was a hoot riding along trails. The adventure includes 360° overlook views of the Alaska Range, Otto Lake, and the Healy Valley.

One of the most popular activities in Denali National Park is hiking. The park has a network of hiking trails that range from short walks to multi-day backpacking trips. It has 6 campgrounds which do get busy in the summer months so it is a good idea to make a reservation. Be sure to check in with the Denali Visitor Center before venturing out into the park.

McKinley Chalet Resort

We stayed at McKinley Chalet Resort which was awesome. Located less than 2 miles from the national park entrance, we felt right in the middle of the wilderness. The newly renovated suites in our wing were chic and modern with that rustic mountain lodge feel.

Our balcony looked over the mountains. The property is large with different areas detached from the main lodge. We enjoyed a fun evening here watching The Music of Denali as we our servers performed on stage while feeding us fresh Alaskan salmon, ribs, and mashed potatoes, family style.

2. Denali – Mt. McKinely

If you are lucky while visiting the park, you may be able to spy the majestic mountain, Denali. It is usually overcast, but we’ve been lucky enough to see it from our land tour and by a scenic flight.

A scenic flight was an absolutely gorgeous way to experience North America’s tallest peak. Seeing the glaciers and ice fields from above was an intimidating sight. At times it felt as if we could reach out and touch it. Book this scenic flight over Denali where you will fly close to the summit of Denali, enjoy views of the Alaska Range and witness the Tokositna and Ruth Glaciers. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Avid climbers can attempt to conquer Denali. But unlike Mount Kilimanjaro, it requires serious climbing experience and winter camping. If you are new to mountaineering, it is better to stick to taking in scenic views.

3. Glacier Bay National Park

Glacier Bay National Park is one of the most unique places in the world. It is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and rightly so with history packed in every single molecule of its ancient glacier history. 

The Grand Pacific Glacier was more than 4000 feet thick just two centuries ago but has shrunk significantly. Today the glacier has been divided into many small ones and many of them are calving to this day. That means at any moment a giant block of ice could fall off of them, which also means many of the glaciers have to be enjoyed from a distance.

The park is made up of more than 3 million acres and can only be reached by ship or float plane. Alaska’s inside passage in Glacier Bay takes you from forest to ice and is breathtaking to experience as you float the fjord. When you’re in the inside passage it is almost as though nothing else exists.

During our Holland America Cruise, we circled the bay enjoying panoramic views of the glaciers from the front deck. By having a balcony suite, we then retired to our room to enjoy the views with a glass of champagne as we relaxed in privacy taking in this wonder of the world.

4. Ketchikan

One of our favorite places to visit in Alaska is Ketchikan. The Salmon Capital of the world and Alaska’s first city, this is a town where most cruises stop either first or last. Located on the Inside Passage in southern Alaska, this frontier town was once a thriving settlement for the gold rush and as you walk along the boardwalks of historic Creek Street, you can see historic buildings from the red light district dating back to the 1800s.

Ketchikan is also one of the best places to see whales in Alaska and there are plenty of boat tours that will take you onto the water. We took a zodiac tour in Ketchikan where we explored the coast, spied bald eagles and whales from our self-drive boats.

Ketchikan also has the world’s largest collection of standing Native American totem poles. Make sure to look up to see them all. If you want to delve into Indigenous culture, visit the Totem Heritage Center and learn about the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian Peoples.

You can also see more Totem poles at the Saxam Village in Ketchikan and we saw Totem Bight State Historic Park on another cruise in Alaska. Located just outside of Ketchikan, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

5. Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary

Ketchikan is also home to the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary. It covers 40 acres of protected land and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including black bears, bald eagles, Sitka black-tailed deer, and salmon.

We took a float plane out to Neets Bay to watch bears feast on spawning salmon as they fattened up for winter hibernation. This was one of the best experiences we’ve ever had. Make sure to book it early as these excursions fill up quickly. If you want to see brown bears feeding on salmon instead, the place to do that is at Katmai National Park and Preserve.

6. Misty Fjords National Monument

One of the star attractions is Misty Fjords National Monument which is located just 22 miles east of Ketchikan. It is made up of sheer rock walls that reach 3000 feet straight out of the ocean. Take a scenic flight here where you’ll witness steep sea cliffs, steep fjords, and rainforests.

Where to Stay in Ketchikan

If you are staying in Ketchikan, check out the Inn at Creek Street – These restored historic buildings offer unique accommodation in the heart of downtown. Most rooms have kitchenettes and refrigerators. Details here.

The Landing – The Landing Hotel is located in downtown Ketchikan. It has The Landing Restaurant & Jeremiah’s Pub on site.

7. Juneau – Mendenhall Glacier

Many cruise ships also start and finish their journeys in Juneau, Alaska. I know we have! Named after Joe Juneau, a French-Canadian miner, and prospector Juneau is one of the more happening towns in Alaska. One of its main tourist attractions is the enormous Mendenhall Glacier located on the Juneau Ice field.

Juneau is a place in Alaska that requires at least a couple of days to explore. The town itself has a fun old-west vibe complete with saloons, boardwalks, and plenty of attractions. It’s also one of the premier places in the world to spot bald eagles with them being so plentiful there is a beach actually called Bald Eagle Beach. Read more about all the 28 Amazing Things to do in Juneau, Alaska

Where to Stay in Juneau

Four Points by Sheraton  – Located on the waterfront we found this to be a very convenient hotel. It was within walking distance to downtown plus it has easy access to the Seadrome Marina.

Ramada Inn by Wyndham  – Another great location in Juneau just a little farther away from the historic downtown than the Sheraton. But still within walking distance and we loved their restaurant and bar.

8. Mendenhall Ice Caves

The Mendenhall ice caves are one of the coolest things to see in Juneau. This natural attraction will make you feel as though you have been transported to a planet of ice and glass. The Mendenhall ice caves are usually accessible between July and September.

You can take a tour to see the Mendenhall Glacier and enjoy the hiking trails around the lake to see its different viewpoint.

• Book this highly-rated  Mendenhall Glacier Ice Caves Tour.  For the adventure of a lifetime, paddle the Mendenhall Lake to the Glacier where you’ll get to explore the glacier up close and personal.
• Or you can join a  canoe trip to the glacier  where you’ll search for wildlife, paddle around ice flows and finally step foot on the glacier.

9. Tongass National Forest

It’s hard to believe that Alaska has a rainforest but Tongass National Forest is the largest functioning temperate rainforest on Earth. The size of Tongass is mind-blowing at more than 16 million acres of land. From both Ketchikan and Juneau, you can visit Tongass National Forest.

In the forest, you can enjoy its hiking trails and if you’re in Juneau, you can take a mere 15-minute drive to the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center which is located within the forest. We took a beautiful guided hike to the glacier where we watched salmon spawn and learned about its flora and fauna. Besides Mendenhall, there are numerous other glaciers and hiking trails spread across the park. 

The park is home to all sorts of wildlife like wolves, black bears, and deer. You can even spot humpback whales and sea lions in the nearby waters. Tongass National Park has the comforts of the city within it as well as the comforts of the wild throughout.  

10. Fairbanks

The very first place we ever visited in Alaska was Fairbanks, Alaska and this town is awesome. When visiting Alaska in the summer it is truly the land of the Midnight Sun. There are so many things to do in Fairbanks from learning about Native American Culture and exploring the Chena River to relaxing in the Chena Hot Springs.

One of the more interesting places to visit is the Yukon Quest Alaska Headquarters. This is the start of the Yukon Quest dog sled race where you can learn about the famous dog mushers and teams who have taken part over the years. Including our friend Hank McCready who ran the prettiest team in Alaska. Another stop is the fountainhead antique auto museum where vintage cars are on display. It is consistently ranked as one of the best auto museums in the world.

Where to Stay in Fairbanks

For Aurora viewing check out Aurora Villa . This modern retreat is a boutique hotel offering views of the northern lights nestled in the mountains above Fairbanks.

11. Anchorage

A visit to Alaska wouldn’t be complete without seeing Anchorage. It is the largest city in Alaska and an international hub with access to Alaska’s interior and coast. It is here that you can hop on the Alaska Railroad to explore the great frontier.

Anchorage was the start of our cruise. After disembarking from the railway, we enjoyed two nights in downtown Anchorage. With cafés and restaurants, it has all the amenities of a big city. A highlight to visit is the ultra-modern Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center and The Alaska Native Heritage Center exploring the life and culture of Alaska’s indigenous people.

12. Skagway

Skagway is a bustling town where nearly every ship stops. It can be overwhelming spending just a day in Skagway. This old wild west town is filled with energy. In town, you can visit the Klondike Visitor’s Center to learn all about the Gold Rush that attracted people to this part of the world.

Take a step back in time and visit the Skagway National Historic District. It is located in the town of Skagway and the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park has managed to ensure that ancient buildings from the Gold Rush days are still intact. Just walking through Skagway downtown will make you feel like you yourself have traveled back in time to when searching for gold and grabbing a pint after was all in a day’s work.   

13. White Pass Railway and Yukon Route Railroad

The vintage locomotive takes you along the Chilcoot Trail where prospectors risked their lives in search of gold. If you are walking around town, make your way to Pullen Creek Stream Walk to see the salmon run.

We took the best of all of Skagway by taking a helicopter flight over the glaciers out to the national forest in search of wildlife before hopping on the historic White Pass and Yukon Railroad. We have done the railroad tour on its own, but highly recommend the flight, hike, and railway tour instead. You only need to ride the railway one way and this gave us the best of all worlds.

14. Dalton Highway

If you want to go even more remote, continue on from Fairbanks to Deadhorse along the Dalton Highway near the Prudhoe Bay Oil fields and the Arctic Ocean. We haven’t done this drive, but we have been up to the Arctic Ocean in the neighboring Northwest Territories in Canada and the scenery here is truly magnificent.

The Dalton Highway is considered one of the most isolated roads in the United States. It crossed the Arctic Circle and we did this on the similar Dempster Highway. it is the coolest thing to drive right across the Arctic Circle. It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Enjoy reading our 15 Great Road Trips in America

Seward is a small town located on the Kenai Peninsula and offers many activities for outdoor enthusiasts. There are plenty of things you can do in Seward including boat tours to Kenai Fjords National Park, or the Alaska SeaLife Center which is a great place to learn about marine life in Alaska and see sea lions, puffins, and other animals up close.

The surrounding mountains have plenty of hiking trails including the Harding Icefield Trail and the Exit Glacier Trail.

16. Alaska Highway

If you want to try a truly authentic experience, make sure to drive the Alaska Highway from Dawson’s Creek in British Columbia . This epic road trip crosses through southeast Alaska letting you see a different side of the sate. We made a similar journey along the Dempster Highway in the Yukon and let me tell you, there is nothing like it on Earth.

The Alaska Highway is a 1400-mile trip that ends in Fairbanks, Alaska. Along the drive, you’ll encounter glaciers and mountains and grizzly bears, and more and it will definitely be a trip you won’t forget. Of course, you don’t have to take the highway, you can simply take a plane and land yourself in one of Alaska’s big cities.

17. Kenai Fjords National Park

The Kenai Fjords National Park in the Kenai Peninsula is one of the best places to visit in Alaska with glaciers, an icefield, and bears and seals lolling about. The best way to see this remote destination is to get out on a cruise where you can get out on kayaks to explore the fjords.

Make sure to visit the Kenai Fjords National Park Visitor Centre in Seward before you head out to learn about trail conditions and the Kenai Peninsula before you head into the park. And don’t miss seeing Exit Glacier located just 10 minutes from Seward, it is one of Alaska’s most accessible roadside glaciers.

Kenai Fjords National Park was a national monument and then became a National park designed to protect the misty fjords, rainforest, and wildlife that make up the area. Today, the Kenai Peninsula is a beloved part of the local Anchorage community as it’s just a two-hour drive outside of the city. 

18. Wrangell Elias National Park

It’s larger than Yellowstone National Park , in fact, it’s larger than all North American national parks, Wrangell St. Elias National Park is America’s largest national park at a whopping 13.2 million acres. It’s a national treasure that few people get to see. Check out America’s first national park : Best things to do in Yellowstone NP.

The park is full of volcanoes and glaciers and the unique landscape attracts all sorts of wildlife like mountain goats and brown bears (same as grizzly bears) Wrangell St Elias National Park is part tundra and temperate rainforest. It is also home to moose, Dall sheep, bison, goats, and caribou.

One of the most interesting things you might see is ice worms. From the name, you’d think they should be see-through or white, but ice worms are actually black and you can see them through frozen surfaces. If you’re a bird watcher, you’ll love the Copper River Basin Area which is part of the migratory route of numerous bird species. Additionally, you’ll likely see bald eagles, swans, ravens, and owls too. 

19. Northern Lights

While summertime in Alaska gives visitors the chance to experience the midnight sun with nearly 24 hours of daylight, when the cooler temperatures arrive you can make a trip to Alaska to see the Northern Lights.

The best time to see the northern lights in Alaska is in winter or late autumn and early spring. Light pollution will be your enemy so if you want to get the real Aurora experience, the best places to visit will be outside of Alaska’s big cities. You can ask the hotel that you’re staying at to wake you when the lights are out as quite a number of hotels in Alaska offer this service.

To view the Aurora Borealis stay at the Northern Sky Lodge in Fairbanks. The lodge is nestled among 21 acres, only 30 minutes from Fairbanks International Airport and 90 minutes from Denali National Park. It makes for a great base to explore the interior of Alaska.

20. Alaska Native Heritage Center

To truly appreciate the Alaskan climate and lifestyle it is definitely a good idea to learn about the indigenous history of the state. Your visit to the Alaska Native Heritage Center will give you a glimpse into the lives of 11 Alaska cultures including the Haida and Tsimshian First Nations whose territory goes right into Canada and down into British Columbia .

You will get to watch traditional dancing, meet Indigenous artists, and even visit dwellings that give you a chance to experience how the Indigenous people lived in the winter in Alaska before there was electricity.

21. Iditarod National Historic Trail

The historic Iditarod Trail is best known these days for the Iditarod Dog Sledding Race but prior to the race, it was a route used by Native Americans prior to the introduction of other vehicles.

This trail took folks 50 miles north of Seward all the way to Nome. They weren’t just going for a leisurely mush however, these folks carried heavy supplies to remote communities. Dog sleds played an important part in Native transportation and Europeans that came after also adopted this efficient transportation method in the harsh northern climate.

These days you can make your own memories on the trail by walking it or using a tour operator that will take you on a traditional dog sled on the trail. The Iditarod Dog Sledd Race takes place in March and attracts a lot of attention. If you happen to be there during that time it is definitely something you shouldn’t miss.

22. Alaska Railroad

If you’re a bit of a romantic then the idea of taking a railroad across the wilderness will get you excited. The Alaska Railroad was established in 1903 and still runs today. It traverses almost 500 miles from Seward up to Fairbanks with stops along the way.

If you want a comfortable visit while checking out the Alaskan wilderness, you should book a seat on the Alaska Railroad. The ticket price will vary based on how far you travel and which cabin you decide to book. Additionally, you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner entrees on your trip while enjoying the beauty of the Pacific Ocean, Alaska glaciers, rivers and mountains.

23. Prince William Sound

It is truly a stunning sight to see so many salmon all in one place. If you’re looking for a fun day trip then look no further than Prince William Sound.

The Sound is located on the south end of Alaska with incredible scenery and is one of the prettiest places you’ll visit. You can take a boat tour out to visit the sound and also enjoy a delicious meal on the water. The Sound is surrounded by glaciers and the biggest tidewater glacier is the Columbia Glacier.

You’ll feel what a goldfish feels like as the surroundings seem bigger than life. There is also a lot of wildlife in the area so keep your camera handy for epic pics you can look at over and over again. This might not be one of the most well-known Alaska destinations, but you’ll be rewarded with an awe-inspiring scene if you decide to be one of the few that visit.

24. Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

If you want to guarantee to view Alaska’s wildlife then you should check out the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. The center aims to protect and preserve the wildlife of Alaska through education and research.

The center is located off the Seward Highway near the Portage Valley Glacier on Turnagain Arm. It is 200 acres of pure wonder as you get a chance to see bison, coyotes, bears, and other wildlife up close. The conservation center is sectioned off into areas for different wildlife. You can drive through, park your car and then take a walkthrough.

25. Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge

First established to protect the great brown bears that live on Kodiak Island, today the Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge protects a whole lot more. Sitting close to 2,000,000 acres the refuge encompasses Ben Island and parts of Kodiak Island, Uganik Island, the Red Peaks, and Afognak Island. 

It is full of rivers and streams and is a nesting ground for several hundred species of birds including the Bald Eagle. Today the mission of the refuge is not only just protect the brown bears, but also to conserve all wildlife, sea lions, and fish populations in the area.

It is a big breeding ground for five species of salmon that also feed the hundreds of birds that live on the island. This is hands down one of the best places to visit in Alaska. The area is only accessible by floatplane or boat so if you want to visit, you definitely should plan ahead. 

Bonus Alaska Adventure

If you are looking to go off the beaten path, you may want to book a trip to the Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve. It is located in northern Alaska, high above the Arctic Circle. It is one of the most remote and least visited national parks in the United States.

The park covers 8.4 million acres and includes both the Brooks Range mountains and the Arctic tundra. There are no roads or trails in the park, and visitors must be self-sufficient and prepared for the challenging conditions of the Arctic wilderness.

Access to the park is limited to small planes and helicopters, and visitors must obtain permits before entering the park. Despite its remoteness, Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve is a popular destination for backpackers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts who are drawn to the pristine wilderness and stunning landscapes of the Arctic.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the prettiest places in Alaska?

If you visit any of the national parks in Alaska, you will be assured of finding a pretty place. Nothing really beats Glacier Bay National Park but Katmai National Park is one of the prettiest places around. Katmai National Park and Preserve is also one of the best places to see brown bears in the wild. Many people book this excursion at Brooks Camp.

What should you avoid in Alaska?

If you are not a seasoned hiker or climber, it’s best to stay away from the glaciers and just view them from afar or hire a guide or tour to see them with a professional. Additionally, it is best to stay off unmarked trails unless you are very experienced, and don’t venture to the backcountry unless you have experience.

What is the best way to see Alaska in 10 days?

The best way to see Alaska in 10 days is to take a cruise ship down or head to the capital city of Juneau and make your way up from there.

And these are the best places to visit in Alaska. Have you been to Alaska? Alaska is one of our favourite travel destinations on Earth and we look forward to going back soon. What did we miss and where should we go next?

Plan Your Alaska Vacation With These Resources

• Juneau: 28 Amazing Things To Do In Juneau, Alaska
• What to do in Alaska: Things To Do In Alaska
• Cruising Alaska: Uncruise Alaska – The Best Alaskan Cruise
• Packing Tips: What To Pack For An Alaskan Cruise

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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3 thoughts on “25 Best Places to Visit in Alaska In 2024”

Definitely need to spend some good time in the Matsu Valley! Probably one of the places in Alaska that has the most variety of great things to do not just seasonally, but year round!

Anchorage is my fav city in the Alaska and special Outskirts of anchorage

Thanks for your comprehensive overview about Alaska! It’s such a great summer travel destination, the last frontier 😀

The 25 Best Things to do in Alaska

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Aptly nicknamed “The Last Frontier,” Alaska is an incredible destination filled with jaw-dropping scenery that includes snow-capped mountains, icy glaciers, and beautiful fjords. Its scenic beauty extends to its abundant wildlife, offering travelers the chance to observe grizzly bears, whales, bald eagles, and moose in their natural habitat. 

You’re spoiled for choice with outdoor adventures in Alaska, from hiking, paddling, and wildlife watching in its iconic national parks or taking a scenic drive past its alpine lakes and towering mountains. Flightseeing adventures give you a bird’s-eye view of the state’s majestic natural wonders, while glacier cruises offer a glimpse of Alaska’s dramatic coastal landscapes and tidewater glaciers. 

Discover the best things to see and do in Alaska with our guide that highlights the state’s top attractions. This comprehensive Alaska bucket list features the best of the best, including the best places for wildlife watching, glacier viewing, and outdoor adventuring! We’ll help you narrow down your itinerary in the largest state in America, making it easy to plan an unforgettable adventure in Alaska. 

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

The Top 25 things to do in Alaska

1. hunt for the northern lights in fairbanks.

Alaska is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in the United States, and Fairbanks is a popular location for viewing them. You can try to see the phenomenon yourself by driving to a nearby vantage point, but the easiest way to catch a glimpse during Aurora Season is by joining a guided tour with Salmon Berry . 

Fairbanks is such a popular destination for Northern Lights viewing because it’s under the “Auroral Oval,” a ring-shaped zone where activity is concentrated. For the best chances of seeing the Aurora Borealis, visit between August 21 to April 21.

During this time, you can look up and marvel as the swirling skies light up in hues of greens, teals, and whites – and sometimes purples! On the Salmon Berry guided, small-group tour, you’ll be taken to a private aurora viewing Ski Patrol Hut located at the farthest north chairlift in North America. 

Along the way, your Alaskan guide will share the fascinating science behind the lights and their significance within Alaskan Native cultures. Best of all, you’ll have access to a warm facility and hot drinks as you tick this experience off your Alaska bucket list. 

2. Ride the Scenic Alaska Railroad

Stretching 470 miles from Seward to Fairbanks, riding the Alaska Railroad is a leisurely way to take in some of Alaska’s incredible scenery. This gorgeous trail route chugs its way through some of the state’s rugged landscapes and is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the true Alaska wilderness. 

You’ll have plenty of options to choose from, as the Alaska Railroad operates various trains. Its flagship route is the Denali Star, which travels from Anchorage to Fairbanks and passes the Alaska Range and Denali National Park in the shadow of the state’s famed mountain peak. You’ll also get to experience river crossings, including the 918-foot-long Hurricane Gulch Bridge. 

Another option is the Coastal Classic route, which is a four-hour train service from Anchorage to Seward. This journey hugs the coastline of the Turnagain Arm and chugs its way through the Church National Forest. You can enjoy Dall sheep grazing in the cliffside, glacier views, and admire the bright blue Kenai Lake. 

Lastly, you can opt for the train service from Anchorage to Whittier – called the Glacier Discovery route. Ideal for travelers departing Whittier on an Alaskan cruise to Vancouver or exploring Prince William Sound on a day cruise, this popular day trip continues to Spencer Glacier and Grandview. 

3. Go Dog Sledding in Fairbanks

Dog sledding is a celebrated Alaskan tradition and an exciting experience you can have while exploring The Last Frontier. One of the top things to do in Alaska, you can experience the thrill of dog sledding first-hand as you speed through the forest while sitting on a sled being pulled by these powerful dogs! 

One of the best places to go dog sledding is in Fairbanks, with most tours allowing you to tour its kennels and meet the champion dogs. You’ll often see how they train the dogs and hear first-hand accounts of what it’s like to travel with them through Alaska’s harsh terrain.

For a dog mushing tour through the snow, take a tour with Black Spruce Dog Sledding from November through April and join a trail ride with 16 dogs hitched up to an ATV. Paws for Adventure is one of Alaska’s longest-running dog tour companies, where you can go for a ride or sign up for a multi-day adventure. 

At Rod’s Alaskan Guide Service Dog Sledding , you’ll have the chance to glide over the snow on a sled pulled by a team of dogs that have run renowned races. Year-round tours are offered at Trail Breaker Kennel , the home of an iconic musher, where you can tour a kennel, cuddle puppies, and go for a memorable ride. 

4. Soak in Soothing Chena Hot Springs

Relax and unwind in the natural Chena Hot Springs , a popular day trip from Fairbanks where you can enjoy the healing waters and have a soak. While Chena’s recorded history dates back to the early 1900s with weary gold miners, there is evidence that indigenous people used the water to re-charge as well. 

You can purchase daily hot spring passes, which include entrance to the hot springs lake, indoor heated pool, and both the outdoor and indoor hot tubs. If that’s not enough relaxation for you, you can also book a pampering Swedish, deep-tissue, or hot stone massage to go with your hot springs soak!

Chena Hot Springs Resort also boasts the unique Aurora Ice Museum, the largest year-round ice museum with an ice bar. Away from the city lights, it’s also one of the best spots in Alaska to see the Northern Lights in the winter while soaking in the outdoor tubs.

You’ll also find plenty of opportunities for adventure, with dog mushing, skiing, snowmobiling, ATV rides, fishing, and hiking, all popular excursions. You’ll find the resort and campground located at the end of Chena Hot Springs Road, just 56 miles east of Fairbanks. 

5. Go Wildlife Watching in Denali National Park

One of the world’s best destinations for wildlife watching, Denali National Park is home to caribou, grizzly and black bears, moose, and Dall’s sheep. With its vast expanse of wild land, the park’s single road also leads to North America’s tallest peak at over 20,000 feet. 

This is the third-largest park in the United States. The area features a diverse landscape of high alpine ranges, glacier-topped mountains, and wide river valleys. Among its undeveloped wilderness, some of the more frequently seen small mammals in this Alaska bucket list destination include arctic ground squirrels, red squirrels, foxes, and marmots. 

Bird watchers will also find an impressive collection of winged creatures within the park, as golden eagles and bald eagles have been spotted. Some of the most common birds include ravens, mew gulls, gray jays, and ptarmigan. 

Your best chance of seeing wildlife in Denali National Park is while taking a bus ride on Denali Park Road. You can see above the roadside bush and relax while taking in the scenery as the driver navigates the windy road. 

The most likely place to see a grizzly bear is the stretch from Toklat River to Eielson Visitor Center at Mile 66, in addition to foxes, coyotes, and wolves. Alternately, the area from Eielson Visitor Center to Wonder Lake at Mile 85 frequently sees moose roaming around. 

6. Learn About Alaska’s History at the Alaska Native Heritage Center

For a deep dive into Alaska’s diverse cultures, head to the Alaska Native Heritage Center in Anchorage. At this fascinating attraction, you can learn about the 11 major cultures while experiencing their history first-hand through captivating stories, traditional songs and dances, as well as festivals and educational programs. 

It’s a unique experience that will appeal to visitors of all ages, offering a chance to explore the traditional ways of Alaska’s Indigenous cultures. Standing proud as the largest cultural institution in Alaska, you’ll be taken on a journey through 10,000 years of Alaska Native history and culture through exhibits, art, demonstrations, and films. 

The museum’s Gathering Place offers a center stage for Alaska Native dancing, storytelling, and Native Games demonstrations, while the Hall of Cultures features exhibits showcasing each of the five major culture groups of Alaska. Kids will love the Alaska Native craft activities here, while you’ll also have a chance to take home a piece of traditional Alaska Native-made art.

Head to the Theatre to see movies highlighting the different cultures of Alaska Native people. Afterward, you can stroll through six authentic life-size Native dwellings in the Village Sites wooded area around Lake Tiulana. Make sure to stop by the whale bones at the Iñupiaq site for a photogenic souvenir.

7. Hike to Slaughter Gulch via Juneau Trail in Chugach National Forest

Hiking lovers looking for a challenge should add a visit to Slaughter Gulch to their Alaska itinerary. The challenging five-mile journey is a rewarding trail for hikers of all experience levels and offers some of the most stunning mountain, lake, and valley views in North America.

Located in the Chugach National Forest , which spans nearly seven million acres in southcentral Alaska, this trail starts near Cooper Landing. Be prepared for a trek, as you’ll be climbing uphill for about an hour! 

Your efforts will be rewarded, though, as the climax of the hike treats you to panoramic views of the valley. Among the incredible landscapes, you can take in the million-dollar views of Kenai Lake, snow-capped mountains, and lush forests. 

If you have time to add more hikes to your vacation, the Ptarmigan Lake Trail is another favorite in Chugach National Forest. The 6.8-mile trail starts near Kenai Lake and follows the serene Ptarmigan Creek, leading to the gorgeous Ptarmigan Lake. 

If you visit in the summer, the Carter Lake Trail offers a chance to see the colorful wildflowers blooming. It peaks at the beautiful Carter Lake, while many hikers have spotted Dall’s sheep and brown bears along this route. 

8. Photograph Humpback Whales in Prince William Sound

Spotting whales in Prince William Sound is a top thing to do in Alaska. While humpbacks can often be seen during the summer months (commonly in May, June, and July), orcas reside here year-round. 

It’s possible to spot these gentle giants from the shore, but getting out on the water offers an incredible experience of seeing the creatures up close. Tours around Prince William Sound can take you to some of the best spots, as the whales prefer deep, clear waters filled with krill. 

Stan Stephens Glacier & Wildlife Cruises offer all-day cruises through Prince William Sound, from Valdez to Meares Glacier. Not only will you have an opportunity to see orca whales, but also harbor seals, sea lions, and more. 

Phillips Cruises is another favorite, cruising Alaska’s waters since 1958. Departing from Whittier, their Prince William Sound Glacier Cruise takes you to iconic sites such as College Fjord and Blackstone Bay as you spot marine wildlife, including humpback and orca whales. 

Lazy Otter Charters operates custom tours of the sound from March through October in their 30-passenger catamaran. Departing out of Whittier, each of their trips includes a beach walk and lunch, as well as a heated cabin with large windows and a viewing deck. 

9. Go Skiing in Girdwood

Alaska is home to some of the best ski resorts and areas in the country, which comes as no surprise given its wide-open spaces and dramatic terrain. With nearly 700 inches of annual snowfall, both extreme heli-skiers and beginners alike will find a slope to suit their needs. In the winter, you might even add a viewing of the Northern Lights to the mix! 

One of the best places to go skiing in Alaska is Girdwood. This cozy mountain town makes a great home base for accessing the slopes, with opportunities for a long list of winter sports activities like downhill skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, heli-skiing, and snowmobiling. 

In Girdwood, you’ll find Alyeska Resort , one of the state’s premier ski resorts that features over 1,600 skiable acres and over 75 trails. It’s famous around the world for its world-class winter activities and boasts some of the snowiest slopes in North America.

While it caters to all skill levels, advanced skiers will love tackling North America’s longest continuous double black run at Alyeska Resort. After a few runs on the slopes, you can also go for a dogsled ride with an Iditarod veteran or rent snowshoes and go exploring with a guide. Alternately, opt for a snowmobile excursion through the Chugach Mountains. 

Book a Stay at Alyeska Resort

10. Drive the Stunning Seward Highway

Pack your snacks and supplies for a drive on one of Alaska’s most scenic roads, the Seward Highway. This popular Alaskan road trip starts in Anchorage and includes 125 miles of worthwhile stops as you reach the seaside community of Seward. 

The route begins with a view of the picturesque shoreline of Turnagain Arm and dramatic peaks of the Church Mountains, then continues through the Menai Peninsula, passing tiny towns and beautiful alpine lakes along the way. 

While it’s possible to make this trek in one long, full day, it is recommended to stretch it out and stop to enjoy the state’s natural beauty. Girdwood is one of the most popular detours on the Seward Highway, as the laid-back, artsy ski resort town features skiing, mountain biking, and art galleries.

Portage is another worthy stop on this road trip, as it’s home to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. Next, Whittier offers access to glacier-viewing boat tours and a 2.5-mile-long one-way highway toll, the longest in North America. Finally, arrive in Seward and explore the city’s highlights. 

11. Explore the Best of Seward

Seward is one of the top destinations in Alaska, offering a long list of exciting indoor and outdoor attractions and a scenic coastline. It’s just three hours from Anchorage to this small coastal community, where you’ll find a wide range of activities for families and adventure seekers alike. 

The Alaska SeaLife Center is one of the city’s most popular attractions, especially if you’re traveling with kids, as the public aquarium and marine research center is an ideal spot to learn about the state’s rich ecosystems. Check out the educational exhibits and get up close to sea lions, puffins, octopuses, and ice seals! 

Scenic day cruises into the Kenai Fjords National Park are also popular while hiking to the top of Mount Marathon for sweeping views of the city is a favorite activity with active travelers. If you prefer to take it easy, spend a leisurely afternoon downtown and stroll Seward Waterfront Park, watch the boats bob in the water, and observe resident sea otters. 

Just 10 minutes away from Seward is the famous Exit Glacier , one of Alaska’s most accessible roadside glaciers, where you can join guided ice-hiking excursions. You can also get out on the water with a fishing or whale-watching tour, then head to Lowell Point to enjoy beachcombing around its tide pools. 

12. Explore the Inside Passage

Many travelers visiting Alaska consider an exploration of the Inside Passage to be a rite of passage. With some of the most incredible natural scenery of southeast Alaska on full display, it’s easy to see why! While most opt for a cruise of this area, self-guided tours are also an option. 

Hopping aboard a small cruise ship is popular because they do the work for you. The area is an archipelago, after all, with towns situated on islands that aren’t connected to one another by roads. However, if you want to do a DIY trip, it is possible. 

To see the highlights of the Inside Passage, your journey will start in Juneau. See Mendenhall Glacier , go bear viewing, or sign up for a whale-watching cruise. Then, take a short 40-minute flight to Skagway and stroll its quaint downtown area. 

Take a train ride on the White Pass & Yukon Route or go for a guided glacier hike, then make your way to Haines via the picturesque 45-minute ferry. From here, you can take an air taxi flight to Gustavus, where you can access Glacier Bay National Park . It’s here that you’ll wrap up your Inside Passage journey, marveling at its massive tidewater glaciers and local wildlife. 

13. Enjoy a Family Day Outdoors at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

One of the top things to do in Alaska if you’re traveling with the kids, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is a sanctuary dedicated to preserving local wildlife. The 200-acre center allows you to observe Alaskan wildlife like coyotes, bald eagles, and wood bison display their natural behavior in a gorgeous setting. 

The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is set on the shores of Turnagain Arm, surrounded by picture-perfect mountain and glacier landscapes. The animals are located in different areas of the center, with each habitat featuring informational signs explaining the habits and behaviors of the animals.

Offered June 1 to September 15, Bear Encounter tours get you up-close with resident brown bears, and you can participate in their daily feeding. Moose Encounters are also offered in these months, with a chance to say hello and feed the resident moose. 

If you come in the winter, you can get a different view of the center’s wildlife. At this time, you can expect to see wood bison, reindeer, wolves, deer, muskox, and foxes. Daily keeper chats are available year-round, as well as the popular Walk on the Wild Side Tour that includes a personal guide and a chance to feed an animal. 

14. Observe Brown Bears in Katmai National Park

Katmai National Park is at the top of most traveler’s Alaska bucket list for a reason. It’s beloved as one of the best spots for bear viewing in the state. It offers a true wilderness adventure just 260 miles southwest of Anchorage, where you can observe brown bears drawn to the salmon-filled waters in Katmai.

Brooks Camp is the park’s summer base on the shores of Naknek Lake and the hub of activity, where you’ll find a lodge, restaurant, campground, kayak rentals, and ranger-led tours. After a short bear safety orientation, you can follow a floating bridge to the park’s famed bear-viewing platforms overlooking the Brooks River. 

From here, you can photograph the spectacular sight of 900-pound creatures at the top of the waterfall catching salmon. For the best chance of seeing the action, plan your visit between mid and late summer. While grizzly bear-viewing is the biggest draw, you can also see wolves, caribou, beavers, and marten. 

In addition to brown bear viewing, this park offers opportunities to enjoy rafting, hiking, camping, and kayaking. Paddling in Katmai’s rivers and lakes is perfect for adventure-seekers, while fly fishing is also popular, although some are catch and release only. 

15. Hike Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve is America’s largest park and certainly one of its most impressive. Its vast 13.2 million acres of landscapes are as wide as Yellowstone, Yosemite, and Switzerland combined, offering peaks upon peaks and endless glaciers. 

This UNESCO-listed park boasts spectacular hiking trails, with glacier viewing along the 4.4-mile Root Glacier Trail one of the most popular options. Alternately, Caribou Creek Trail, Skookum Volcano Trail, and Bonanza Mine Trail are more strenuous options. For a quick immersion of the park’s tremendous landscapes, take a guided flight over the peaks, glaciers, and wide-open expanses.

The park’s sheer size means you’ll find plenty to see and do, with a variety of exciting adventures on offer. Enjoy sport fishing in the lakes and streams, try your hand at snowmobiling, or stay overnight in one of the park’s backcountry cabins. 

Make sure to add a visit to Hubbard Glacier while exploring Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve, as this notable natural attraction is North America’s largest tidewater glacier. An incredible 76 miles long and seven miles wide, it can be seen by boat or air from Yucatat, Alaska. 

16. Visit the Harding Icefield in Kenai Fjords National Park

Located in Kenai Fjords National Park, the Harding Icefield is an epic day hike leaving from the Exit Glacier Area. Stretching for 700 square miles through cottonwood and alder forests, this top hike in the Kenai Peninsula is worth the effort to enjoy its spectacular views. 

This icefield is actually a large area of interconnected glaciers, with over 38 glaciers flowing from the Harding Icefield. Getting to this natural wonder takes patience, as the strenuous four-mile Harding Icefield trailhead parallels the glacier’s north edge, gaining 1,000 feet of elevation with every mile. 

It might be tough, but you’ll be rewarded along the way with unbeatable views of the glacier and surrounding mountains. In the end, you can savor the sweeping views of the Harding Icefield that includes Exit Glacier and the tidewater glaciers on the Kenai Fjords outer coast. 

Start your journey early, as this 8.2-mile round-trip hike is an all-day adventure. It’s best seen in the summer, between June and October. The trail is well-maintained, with plenty of incredible overlooks and impressive views along the way if you don’t want to make the entire journey. 

17. Go Sea Kayaking in Glacier Bay National Park

Glacier Bay National Park is home to some of the best natural scenery in the United States, covering 3.3 million acres of rugged mountains, glaciers, rainforest, fjords, and wild coastlines. It’s a highlight of Alaska’s Inside Passage and one of the largest international protected areas in the world. 

While you’re spoiled for choice with outdoor adventures in this renowned park, sea kayaking is one of the most popular ways to travel into Glacier Bay’s wilderness. Kayaks can be brought to the park by ferry, rented locally, or offered on guided kayak trips. 

Glacier Bay Sea Kayaks is one of the top options for both independent kayakers and guided trips in Glacier Bay’s Bartlett Cove. If you’re short on time, opt for a one-day kayak adventure for a chance to paddle along the shores of Lester Island and Point Gustavus and spot a variety of land mammals, marine, and birdlife.  

After a day of kayaking, you can choose from any one of the other wilderness adventures in Glacier Bay. Advanced hikers can go backpacking, while rafting on glacial rivers and mountaineering are other adrenaline-filled excursions. 

18. Follow Chilkoot Trail in Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park

Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park is an incredible destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike. In addition to its captivating gold rush-era history, it’s home to glacially carved valleys and over 13,000 acres that encompass a six-block historical district in Skagway and the famous Chilkoot Trail. 

One of the most popular hikes in Alaska, the 33-mile Chilkoot Trail is nicknamed “the world’s longest outdoor museum.” It’s here that you can re-trace the journey of Klondike gold seekers, which connects coastal Alaska to the shores of Lake Bennett in Canada. If you don’t want to trek into Canada, turn around at the summit of the Chilkoot Pass. 

Starting in the historic town of Dyea, near Skagway, the trail is dotted with beautiful alpine lakes and centuries-old Gold Rush artifacts. You’ll be walking in the footsteps of where the more than 40,000 Gold Rush seekers made their way to Canada’s Yukon goldfields. 

Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park is a popular cruise ship destination because of its unique combination of history and outdoor activities. Most travelers opt to browse the collection of restored stores, saloons, and public buildings in Skagway before heading to neighboring Dyea to start their hiking adventure. 

19. Hop Aboard the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad

White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad is an epic train adventure in Alaska, nicknamed the “Scenic Railway of the World” for a reason. Built in 1898 during the Klondike Gold Rush, this narrow-gauge railroad is not just an exciting adventure but a must on your Alaska bucket list! 

Starting in Skagway and traveling into the heart of the Yukon, you’ll have several trip options to get a taste of wild Alaska. Along the way, you’ll get to experience beautiful panoramic vistas of Alaska’s most impressive mountains, gorges, waterfalls, and glaciers from the comfort of a vintage rail car. 

Sit back and relax as the 2.5-hour train ride climbs 3,000 feet and wraps around cliffhanger curves. It even passes iconic destinations like Inspiration Point and Dead Horse Gulch as you traverse landscapes toward the famous Yukon River. 

It comes as no surprise that you’ll discover plenty of photo opportunities on this popular train excursion in Alaska. The trains feature large windows and viewing decks for taking in the incredible scenery, with the best conditions typically found in the early morning.

20. Gaze at Iceberg’s at Juneau’s Mendenhall Glacier

One of the most iconic attractions in Alaska, Mendenhall Glacier is considered one of the most beautiful and accessible glaciers in North America. Located just 13 miles from downtown Juneau, and a few minutes from the airport, it’s one of the coolest things to do in Alaska.

Once you reach this natural beauty, you’ll understand why it’s such a popular destination, as it’s a half-mile wide, with ice up to 1,800 feet deep. For a quick visit, head to the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center to learn about the natural wonder, then trek down to the lookout platform along its Photo Point Trail for unobstructed views. 

If you have extra time, spend a half-day exploring this area and get up close to the majestic glacier. There are scenic hiking trails that run along the surrounding area, including a well-marked trail to Nugget Falls. It’s the closest trail to the glacier, adding the bonus of seeing a beautiful 377-foot waterfall cascading into an iceberg lake!

Adventurous travelers can also kayak on Mendenhall Lake, with a chance to paddle near icebergs and arctic nesting cliffs. Another option is a guided charter tour with the option of whale watching in Auke Bay, while helicopter tours offer aerial views of the meltwater pools and ice caves. 

21. Admire Glacier Scenery at Juneau’s Tracy Arm Fjord

While Mendenhall Glacier often steals the attention of most visitors in Juneau, the 27-mile-long Tracy Arm Fjord is worthy of being at the top of your Alaska itinerary as well. Not only is this natural gem bigger, but it’s more dramatic, with narrow sections no more than half a mile wide and cliffs rising more than 3,000 on either side. 

Bring binoculars to fully take in the incredible scenery, which includes beautiful 1,000-foot waterfalls that can be seen cascading down the steep rock walls and snow-capped mountains. The Sawyer Glaciers are the crown jewel, with the sight of its sapphire blue tidewater glaciers sure to blow you away.

Wildlife is also impressive in this remote part of Alaska, with black bears often seen navigating its shores. You might even catch sight of bald eagles soaring overhead and seals and pups lounging and sunning themselves on the ice.

Adventure Bound Alaska and Allen Marine Tours are two options for boat tours through Tracy Arm Fjord. Operating from May to September, expert guides here will get you close to some of Alaska’s largest icebergs. For an adventure by air, Alaska Seaplanes will fly you over the iceberg scenery. 

22. See Live Totem Carving at Sitka National Historical Park

Sitka National Historical Park is nestled on an island dotted with spruce and hemlock trees, best known for preserving the site of a battle between Russian traders and indigenous Tlingit people. Colorful totem poles from Tlingit and Haida areas line the park’s coastal trail, while a restored Russian Bishop’s House highlights Russia’s colonial legacy in North America. 

This is the state’s oldest national park and a top thing to do in Alaska for history lovers who want to immerse themselves in the area’s rich culture, history, and natural beauty. One of the best places to visit is the on-site Sitka Cultural Center, which has studios for some of the world’s top Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian artists. 

It’s here that you can watch live demonstrations as artists create masterpieces with wood carvings, beading, textiles, and engraved metals. The most popular exhibit is the live totem carving, while you can also follow the park’s Totem Trail to discover a collection of restored totem poles carved by Alaska Native carvers. 

Explore the museum in the Russian Bishop’s House to understand what it was like to live in Sitka during the Russian-American period, then stretch your legs on a scenic trail. Enjoy spectacular panoramic viewpoints along the 2.5-mile Mountain Verstovia Trail, or follow the tranquil Indian River along the 4.5-mile Indian River Trail. 

23. Count Totem Poles in Ketchikan

Often called the “Gateway to Southeast Alaska,” the small town of Ketchikan deserves a spot on your Alaska bucket list. It’s the southernmost city on the Inside Passage and was once a fishing and logging community. It is now a charming waterfront town where you can fish, hike, kayak, and learn about Native American culture through its famous totem poles. 

Start your journey in Ketchikan with a stroll along Creek Street, where you can admire its picturesque wood-frame houses built on stilts along the creek. Today, the houses have been transformed into restaurants, shops, and art galleries. 

However, the top reason to come here is to see its fascinating collection of totem poles and learn more about the Tlingit culture. These beautiful works of art are displayed at Totem Bight State Park , while you can learn about the history and meaning of the totems through the exhibits at the Totem Heritage Center . 

Ketchikan is also a popular home base for exploring the Misty Fjords National Monument , as it’s only 20 miles away from the town center. Take a boat tour through the park to see its massive glacial cliffs, dramatic waterfalls, secluded bays, and rock walls jutting 3,000 feet straight out of the ocean. 

24. Visit the Northernmost National Park in the US

A true destination for adventure seekers, Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve is considered one of the best wilderness areas in the world. Located entirely north of the Arctic Circle, it’s one of the coolest things to do in Alaska for nature lovers. 

Its vast landscape doesn’t even contain any roads or trails, with its terrain virtually unchanged throughout the years. It’s perfect if you’re looking for quiet solitude, where adventurers can marvel at wild rivers meandering through glacier-carved valleys, spot caribou migrating, picnic by the water, or spend the day fishing at an alpine lake. 

You’ll need to have the skills to be truly self-sufficient in this remote location, as the park offers backpackers 8.4 million acres of spectacular wilderness. Local air taxis provide flight-seeing trips, day trips, or overnight campouts, while you can also plan a trip to neighboring Kobuk Valley National Park or the Noatak Preserve. 

You can also join guided trips in the summer, with options to go rafting or hiking in the summer or cross-country skiing and dog mushing in the winter. Tour operators like Alaska Alpine Adventures offer multi-day treks through the park and include gear, safety equipment, air transportations, and lodging. 

25. Go Brewery Hopping in Anchorage

Top-quality beer is easy to find in Anchorage, with many local breweries providing a comprehensive list of craft beer options to quench your thirst. Appealing to the 21 and up crowd, you can spend a day brewery hopping in Anchorage and discover some of Alaska’s best-kept secrets. 

Noted as one of the best beer cities in the United States, here’s how to dive deep into the local beer scene in Anchorage. Your first stop is Anchorage Brewing Company , a popular option for beer aficionados that is known for pairing its craft brews with a tasty upscale food menu.

You can also hang out in the loft at Midnight Sun Brewing , the oldest brewery in the state, and sample its menu of barrel-aged stouts and barley wines. Learn about their special ingredient of glacial-fed water and dine on hearty comfort food. Cynosure Brewing is another option in Anchorage, focusing on Belgian ales and lagers. 

King Street Brewing Company has seasonal rotating beers and weekly food trucks, while Resolution Brewing Company has an inviting taproom with outdoor seating. If you’re a cider fan, make sure to visit Double Shovel to experience the first micro-cidery in Alaska! 

That’s it! 25 of the best things to do in Alaska. What’s your favorite thing to do?

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Frequently Asked Questions

Alaska is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in the United States, and Fairbanks is a popular location for viewing them. Fairbanks is such a popular destination for Northern Lights viewing because it’s under the “Auroral Oval,” a ring-shaped zone where activity is concentrated. For the best chances of seeing the Aurora Borealis, visit between August 21 to April 21.

Dog sledding is a celebrated Alaskan tradition and an exciting experience you can have while exploring The Last Frontier. One of the top things to do in Alaska, you can experience the thrill of dog sledding first-hand as you speed through the forest while sitting on a sled being pulled by these powerful dogs!

Alaska is home to some of the best ski resorts and areas in the country, which comes as no surprise given its wide-open spaces and dramatic terrain. In Girdwood, you’ll find Alyeska Resort, one of the state’s premier ski resorts that features over 1,600 skiable acres and over 75 trails. It’s famous around the world for its world-class winter activities and boasts some of the snowiest slopes in North America.

Hiking lovers looking for a challenge should add a visit to Slaughter Gulch to their Alaska itinerary. The challenging five-mile journey is a rewarding trail for hikers of all experience levels and offers some of the most stunning mountain, lake, and valley views in North America. Located in the Chugach National Forest, which spans nearly seven million acres in southcentral Alaska, this trail starts near Cooper Landing. Be prepared for a trek, as you’ll be climbing uphill for about an hour!

Pack your snacks and supplies for a drive on one of Alaska’s most scenic roads, the Seward Highway. This popular Alaskan road trip starts in Anchorage and includes 125 miles of worthwhile stops as you reach the seaside community of Seward. The route begins with a view of the picturesque shoreline of Turnagain Arm and dramatic peaks of the Church Mountains, then continues through the Menai Peninsula, passing tiny towns and beautiful alpine lakes along the way.

Born and raised in Florida, Charity moved to London after college and caught the travel bug. She then traveled full-time as a digital nomad for over a decade, living in the UK, New Zealand, China, and Thailand. With around 60-ish travel stamps in her passport, her favorite memories include skydiving in Switzerland, eating sushi in Japan, island hopping in the Philippines, and camping overnight in the Sahara Desert. She’s now a freelance writer living in Portugal with her husband and son.

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