Picture this: you’re standing on a glacier that’s been around for thousands of years, watching massive chunks of ice crash into the ocean while a curious seal pops its head up to say hello. Or maybe you’re quietly observing a family of grizzly bears catching salmon in a pristine river, completely unaware of your presence. This isn’t just a dream – it’s a typical Tuesday in Alaska!
Alaska isn’t just America’s largest state; it’s a living, breathing adventure playground where every day brings something incredible. Whether you’re dreaming of seeing the Northern Lights dance across the sky, hiking through untouched wilderness, or learning about rich Native cultures, Alaska delivers experiences you’ll never forget.
In this complete guide, you’ll discover 25 amazing things to do in Alaska, from must-see attractions to hidden gems that most tourists miss. We’ll cover everything you need to know – from costs and timing to insider tips that’ll make your Alaskan adventure absolutely unforgettable.
1. Marvel at Denali National Park and Preserve
Denali National Park is Alaska’s crown jewel, home to North America’s tallest mountain and some of the most incredible wildlife viewing on the planet. The park spans over 6 million acres of pristine wilderness where caribou, wolves, grizzly bears, and Dall sheep roam freely.
Why Visit: Denali offers your best chance to see Alaska’s “Big Five” wildlife (bear, moose, caribou, wolf, and Dall sheep) all in one place. The mountain itself, formerly known as Mount McKinley, towers at 20,310 feet and creates its own weather system.
Best Time: May through September for park access. July and August offer the warmest weather, while May and September provide fewer crowds and potential Northern Lights viewing.
How to Reach: Fly into Anchorage, then drive 4 hours north on the Parks Highway, or take the scenic Alaska Railroad from Anchorage (8 hours) or Fairbanks (4 hours).
Price: Park entrance fee is $15 per person (7 days), $30 per vehicle. Bus tours range from $50-200 depending on length and destination within the park.
Traveler Reviews: “The bus tour was long but absolutely worth it – we saw three grizzly bears, a wolf pack, and caribou. The mountain was completely clear, which our guide said only happens about 30% of the time!” – Sarah M., Texas
Pro Tip: Book the Kantishna Experience bus tour for the best wildlife viewing opportunities. It’s a 13-hour round trip, but you’ll travel deeper into the park where animals are more abundant.
2. Experience Glacier Bay National Park
Glacier Bay National Park offers one of the most dramatic displays of glacial activity in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage Site contains 16 active tidewater glaciers that regularly “calve” house-sized chunks of ice into the sea with thunderous crashes.
Why Visit: Witness the raw power of nature as glaciers advance and retreat, creating a constantly changing landscape. The park is also a whale watching paradise, with humpback whales, orcas, and harbor seals frequently spotted.
Best Time: May through September. Peak season is July-August for warmest weather and most wildlife activity.
How to Reach: Access is primarily by cruise ship or small boat charter from Gustavus. Fly from Juneau to Gustavus (30 minutes), then take a tour boat or kayak.
Price: Park entrance is free, but boat tours range from $200-500 per person. Kayak rentals start around $75 per day.
Traveler Reviews: “Hearing a glacier calve is unlike anything else – it sounds like thunder, but you feel it in your chest. We also saw a pod of orcas hunting right next to our boat!” – Mike R., California
Pro Tip: Bring layers and waterproof gear. Even in summer, temperatures near glaciers can be 20-30 degrees cooler than inland areas.
3. Take an Unforgettable Alaska Railroad Journey
The Alaska Railroad offers some of the most scenic train rides in the world, winding through mountains, forests, and valleys that are impossible to reach by car. The glass-domed cars provide 360-degree views of Alaska’s stunning landscapes.
Why Visit: The railroad connects major destinations while offering wildlife viewing from comfort. Many sections of track pass through areas with no road access, showing you parts of Alaska few people ever see.
Best Time: May through September for full service. The “shoulder seasons” (May and September) offer lower prices and fewer crowds.
How to Reach: Major routes connect Anchorage to Fairbanks, Anchorage to Seward, and seasonal service to Denali and other destinations.
Price: Tickets range from $75-300 depending on route and class. GoldStar service ($150-300) includes domed viewing, meals, and beverage service.
Traveler Reviews: “The train to Denali was absolutely magical. We saw moose right from our seats, and the guides pointed out wildlife we would have missed. Way better than driving!” – Jennifer L., Florida
Pro Tip: Book early for 2025, as rental car shortages have made the railroad an increasingly popular choice. GoldStar service is worth the upgrade for the outdoor viewing platforms.
4. Go Whale Watching in Juneau
Juneau offers some of the world’s best whale watching, with humpback whales, orcas, and other marine life gathering in the nutrient-rich waters of the Inside Passage. The dramatic backdrop of glaciers and mountains makes this experience even more spectacular.
Why Visit: Southeast Alaska’s waters host over 600 humpback whales during summer months. You’ll also likely see sea lions, harbor seals, porpoises, and various seabirds.
Best Time: May through September, with peak whale activity in July and August when salmon runs are strongest.
How to Reach: Fly directly to Juneau or arrive by cruise ship. Whale watching tours depart from downtown Juneau’s harbor.
Price: Half-day tours range from $120-180 per adult, $80-120 for children. Full-day tours with additional activities cost $200-300.
Traveler Reviews: “We saw at least 15 humpback whales, including babies! One whale came so close to our boat we could hear it breathing. The captain was incredibly knowledgeable.” – David K., New York
Pro Tip: Choose smaller boats (under 20 passengers) for a more intimate experience and better wildlife viewing opportunities. Many tours offer whale sighting guarantees.
5. Explore Mendenhall Glacier
Located just 13 miles from downtown Juneau, Mendenhall Glacier is one of Alaska’s most accessible glaciers. This 13-mile-long glacier flows down from the Juneau Icefield and ends in beautiful Mendenhall Lake.
Why Visit: It’s one of the few glaciers you can easily hike to and explore up close. The visitor center offers excellent educational exhibits, and several hiking trails provide different perspectives of the glacier.
Best Time: May through September for hiking access. Winter visits are possible but require more preparation.
How to Reach: Rent a car or take a bus tour from downtown Juneau. The visitor center is easily accessible by car, with several parking areas.
Price: Visitor center admission is $5 for adults. Guided ice cave tours cost $300-500 per person.
Traveler Reviews: “The hikes around Mendenhall are stunning. We did the Photo Point trail (easy) and then the more challenging West Glacier trail. Both offered incredible views!” – Maria S., Arizona
Pro Tip: Start with the easy Photo Point Trail (0.5 miles) for classic glacier views, then tackle the West Glacier Trail (3.2 miles) if you want to get closer to the ice.
6. Fish for Salmon in Kenai River
The Kenai River is legendary among anglers worldwide for its massive salmon runs. King salmon here can weigh over 90 pounds, and the river also hosts huge runs of red (sockeye), silver (coho), and pink salmon.
Why Visit: This is your chance to catch the fish of a lifetime while surrounded by Alaska’s pristine wilderness. Even if you’re not an experienced angler, guided trips make it accessible to beginners.
Best Time: King salmon: May-July; Red salmon: June-August; Silver salmon: August-September. Each species has specific peak times.
How to Reach: Drive from Anchorage (2.5 hours) to Soldotna or Cooper Landing. Many guided services provide transportation from Anchorage.
Price: Guided full-day trips range from $250-400 per person including equipment. Fishing licenses cost $25-55 depending on residency and duration.
Traveler Reviews: “I caught my first salmon on the Kenai – a 45-pound king! Our guide was patient with beginners and knew exactly where to find the fish. Unforgettable experience!” – Tom W., Oregon
Pro Tip: Book guided trips well in advance, especially for king salmon season. Combat fishing (crowded conditions) is common at popular spots, so consider hiring a guide for access to less crowded areas.
7. Witness the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis)
The Northern Lights are one of nature’s most spectacular displays, and Alaska offers some of the best viewing opportunities in the world. These dancing curtains of green, purple, and red light are caused by solar particles interacting with Earth’s magnetic field.
Why Visit: Seeing the Aurora Borealis is a truly magical experience that photos can’t capture. Alaska’s long winter nights and clear skies provide excellent viewing conditions.
Best Time: September through March, with peak activity around the equinoxes (March and September). Clear, dark nights away from city lights are essential.
How to Reach: Fairbanks offers the best odds for viewing, being located directly under the aurora oval. Anchorage and other locations can see them during strong displays.
Price: Aurora viewing tours range from $75-150 per person. Many hotels in Fairbanks offer wake-up calls when auroras are active.
Traveler Reviews: “We stayed up until 2 AM and were rewarded with an incredible light show. The colors were so vivid – green, purple, and pink dancing across the entire sky!” – Lisa C., Michigan
Pro Tip: Download an aurora forecasting app and be patient. Aurora activity is unpredictable, so plan for multiple nights of viewing opportunities. Dress very warmly – you’ll be standing outside for hours.
8. Take a Scenic Flight Over Denali
Flightseeing tours around Denali offer perspectives impossible to achieve from the ground. These small aircraft provide stunning aerial views of North America’s tallest peak, massive glaciers, and remote wilderness areas.
Why Visit: Weather often obscures Denali from ground level, but flights can get above the clouds for clear mountain views. You’ll also see the scale of Alaska’s wilderness from a unique perspective.
Best Time: May through September for best weather conditions. Morning flights often have clearer skies.
How to Reach: Tours depart from Talkeetna (2 hours from Anchorage) or from airstrips near Denali National Park.
Price: Basic flightseeing tours start around $275 per person. Glacier landing tours cost $450-600.
Traveler Reviews: “The flight around Denali was breathtaking. We landed on a glacier and got out to walk around – it felt like we were on another planet!” – Robert H., Colorado
Pro Tip: Choose tours that include glacier landings for the full experience. Weather cancellations are common, so build flexibility into your itinerary.
9. Go Dog Sledding
Dog sledding is Alaska’s official state sport and an incredible way to experience the wilderness. Many kennels offer tours where you can either ride in a sled or learn to mush your own team of eager huskies.
Why Visit: Connect with Alaska’s transportation history while experiencing the joy and energy of working sled dogs. It’s fun for all ages and doesn’t require any special skills.
Best Time: Winter (November-March) for traditional snow sledding. Summer wheeled cart tours are available year-round at some locations.
How to Reach: Tours operate near Anchorage, Fairbanks, Seward, and other major cities. Many companies provide transportation from hotels.
Price: Half-day tours range from $150-250 per person. Multi-day expeditions can cost $500-1000+ per day.
Traveler Reviews: “The dogs were so excited to run! Our musher taught us commands and let us help harness the team. The ride through the forest was peaceful and exhilarating at the same time.” – Karen P., Wisconsin
Pro Tip: Visit kennels that participate in the Iditarod for the most authentic experience. Many offer demonstrations even if you don’t take a tour.
10. Explore Katmai National Park for Bear Viewing
Katmai National Park is famous for its incredible brown bear population, particularly at Brooks Falls where bears gather to catch salmon. This is one of the best places in the world to observe bears in their natural habitat.
Why Visit: Watch massive brown bears fishing for salmon just feet away from viewing platforms. The park protects one of the largest populations of brown bears in the world.
Best Time: July for peak salmon run and bear activity at Brooks Falls. September offers good bear viewing with fewer crowds.
How to Reach: Fly from Anchorage to King Salmon, then take a smaller plane to Brooks Camp. Day trips and multi-day packages are available.
Price: Day trips from Anchorage start around $650 per person. Multi-day camping packages range from $800-1500.
Traveler Reviews: “We saw over 20 bears in one day! Watching them catch salmon at the falls was incredible. The bears completely ignored us on the viewing platform.” – Susan M., Georgia
Pro Tip: Book well in advance – Brooks Camp has limited capacity and fills up quickly. Bring a good telephoto lens or binoculars for the best viewing experience.
11. Cruise Through Kenai Fjords National Park
Kenai Fjords National Park protects dramatic coastal landscapes carved by glaciers over thousands of years. Boat tours through the park reveal towering cliffs, tidewater glaciers, and abundant marine wildlife.
Why Visit: Experience scenic day cruises (3-8 hours) to see whales and glaciers in one of Alaska’s most pristine marine environments. The park’s fjords are home to sea otters, Steller sea lions, and various whale species.
Best Time: May through September, with July and August offering the calmest seas and most wildlife activity.
How to Reach: Tours depart from Seward, which is 2.5 hours by car from Anchorage or accessible via the Alaska Railroad.
Price: Half-day cruises start around $150 per adult. Full-day tours with glacier viewing cost $200-300.
Traveler Reviews: “The boat tour exceeded all expectations. We saw orcas, sea otters, and got within 300 feet of a calving glacier. The captain’s knowledge made it even better!” – Patricia R., Ohio
Pro Tip: Choose tours that visit the Holgate or Aialik glaciers for the best chances of seeing calving. Bring motion sickness medication even if you don’t usually get seasick.
12. Experience Native Alaskan Culture
Alaska is home to diverse Native cultures, including Inupiat, Yup’ik, Athabascan, Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples. Cultural centers and experiences throughout the state offer insights into these rich traditions.
Why Visit: Learn about Alaska’s first peoples through traditional dances, storytelling, art demonstrations, and cultural exhibits that bring thousands of years of history to life.
Best Time: Cultural centers operate year-round, with special events often scheduled during summer tourist season.
How to Reach: Major cultural centers are located in Anchorage (Alaska Native Heritage Center), Fairbanks (Morris Thompson Cultural Center), and Sitka (Sitka National Historical Park).
Price: Cultural center admission ranges from $15-25 for adults. Special performances and workshops may cost additional fees.
Traveler Reviews: “The Alaska Native Heritage Center opened my eyes to the incredible diversity of Native cultures. The dance performances were powerful and the artists’ demonstrations were fascinating.” – Michael T., Vermont
Pro Tip: Many cultural centers offer hands-on workshops where you can try traditional crafts like carving or beadwork. These provide deeper cultural connections than just viewing exhibits.
13. Kayak Among Icebergs
Sea kayaking in Alaska offers an intimate way to explore coastal waters, getting close to glaciers, icebergs, and marine wildlife. The quiet nature of kayaking allows for incredible wildlife encounters.
Why Visit: Paddle silently among icebergs and get closer to seals, sea otters, and whales than possible on larger boats. The perspective from water level makes glaciers seem even more massive and impressive.
Best Time: May through September, with July and August offering the warmest conditions and calmest seas.
How to Reach: Popular kayaking destinations include Spencer Glacier (accessible via Alaska Railroad), Seward, and Glacier Bay.
Price: Half-day guided tours start around $125 per person. Multi-day expeditions range from $300-500 per day.
Traveler Reviews: “Kayaking among the icebergs was surreal. We paddled right up to seals lounging on ice floes, and the silence was broken only by the crackling of melting ice.” – Andrea L., Minnesota
Pro Tip: No experience necessary for guided tours, but dress in layers and be prepared to get wet. Dry suits are usually provided for glacier tours.
14. Ride the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway
This historic narrow-gauge railroad climbs nearly 3,000 feet in just 20 miles, following the route used by gold rush stampeders in 1898. The journey from Skagway to the Canadian border offers incredible mountain and glacier views.
Why Visit: Experience living history while enjoying some of the most dramatic railroad scenery in North America. The route passes through tunnels, over bridges, and past waterfalls and glaciers.
Best Time: May through September for full operations. Summer months offer the best weather and longest daylight hours.
How to Reach: The railway departs from Skagway, accessible by cruise ship, ferry, or the Alaska Highway.
Price: Round-trip tickets to White Pass Summit cost around $65 for adults, $35 for children. Through service to Whitehorse, Yukon costs $125-150.
Traveler Reviews: “The train ride was absolutely stunning. Every turn revealed another incredible view. Our guide shared fascinating gold rush history that brought the journey to life.” – James D., Illinois
Pro Tip: Sit on the left side of the train for the best views going up, right side coming down. The railway operates vintage cars, so dress warmly even in summer.
15. Explore Wrangell-St. Elias National Park
America’s largest national park, Wrangell-St. Elias covers 13.2 million acres of wilderness, glaciers, and peaks. This UNESCO World Heritage Site contains four major mountain ranges and North America’s largest collection of peaks over 16,000 feet.
Why Visit: Experience true wilderness on a massive scale. The park offers incredible hiking, mountaineering, glacier trekking, and wildlife viewing in complete solitude.
Best Time: June through August for road access and hiking. Winter activities like skiing and dog sledding are possible but require serious preparation.
How to Reach: Drive the McCarthy Road (60 miles of gravel) from Chitina, or fly into McCarthy airstrip. The main park entrance is 200 miles east of Anchorage.
Price: Park entrance is free. Guided tours and activities in McCarthy range from $50-300 per person.
Traveler Reviews: “The drive to McCarthy was an adventure itself, but worth every bump. The Root Glacier hike was incredible – we walked right on the glacier with just micro-spikes!” – Nancy K., Montana
Pro Tip: The McCarthy Road can be rough – rent a vehicle with good clearance or take a shuttle service. Stock up on supplies before heading out, as services are limited.
16. Go Halibut Fishing in Homer
Homer, known as the “Halibut Fishing Capital of the World,” offers incredible opportunities to catch these massive flatfish. Pacific halibut can weigh over 400 pounds, making for epic fishing battles.
Why Visit: Halibut fishing is thrilling and rewarding, with good chances of catching fish weighing 50-200+ pounds. Homer’s location on Kachemak Bay provides excellent fishing grounds.
Best Time: May through September, with peak season in July and August when halibut are most active in shallower waters.
How to Reach: Drive from Anchorage (4.5 hours) on the scenic Sterling Highway, or fly directly to Homer.
Price: Full-day chartered fishing trips range from $250-350 per person. Processing and shipping caught fish costs additional fees.
Traveler Reviews: “I caught a 180-pound halibut after a 20-minute fight! The crew helped land it and we had enough fish to last months. Best fishing experience of my life!” – Greg B., Kansas
Pro Tip: Book with reputable charter companies that provide all equipment and cleaning services. Many can arrange shipping of your catch back home.
17. Visit the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race
The Iditarod is Alaska’s most famous sporting event, a 1,000-mile sled dog race from Anchorage to Nome. Even if you can’t attend the race, you can visit kennels, meet mushers, and learn about this incredible tradition.
Why Visit: Experience Alaska’s state sport and learn about the amazing bond between mushers and their dogs. The race celebrates Alaska’s frontier spirit and history.
Best Time: The race occurs in early March, but you can visit participating kennels and meet mushers year-round.
How to Reach: The ceremonial start is in downtown Anchorage, with the restart in Wasilla. Many kennels offer tours near Anchorage and Fairbanks.
Price: Kennel tours range from $30-50 per person. Race viewing is free, though premium viewing spots may charge fees.
Traveler Reviews: “Meeting the Iditarod dogs was amazing – they’re athletes but also incredibly friendly. Learning about the race history and what mushers endure was fascinating.” – Rebecca S., North Carolina
Pro Tip: Many mushers offer summer dog sledding experiences using wheeled carts. This lets you experience mushing even when there’s no snow.
18. Explore Sitka’s Russian Heritage
Sitka preserves Alaska’s Russian colonial history better than anywhere else. The town features Russian Orthodox churches, historic sites, and cultural attractions that tell the story of Alaska’s Russian period (1741-1867).
Why Visit: Discover a unique chapter of American history in a stunning coastal setting. Sitka combines Russian heritage with Tlingit culture and pristine Southeast Alaska scenery.
Best Time: May through September for best weather and all attractions open. Winter visits are possible but some seasonal businesses close.
How to Reach: Fly directly to Sitka or arrive by cruise ship or Alaska Marine Highway ferry.
Price: Many historic sites are free to explore. Museum admissions range from $5-15. Guided tours cost $50-100 per person.
Traveler Reviews: “Sitka National Historical Park was fascinating – seeing the Russian and Tlingit artifacts side by side really told the story of this unique place. The totem poles were incredible.” – Stephen A., Delaware
Pro Tip: Visit St. Michael’s Cathedral to see authentic Russian Orthodox religious art and artifacts. The Russian Bishop’s House offers excellent guided tours.
19. Go Berry Picking
Alaska’s short but intense summer produces an abundance of wild berries including blueberries, salmonberries, cloudberries, and lingonberries. Berry picking is a beloved Alaskan tradition that connects you with the land.
Why Visit: Experience a traditional Alaskan activity while enjoying nature’s bounty. Wild berries are incredibly flavorful and make great souvenirs (jam, jellies) to take home.
Best Time: July through September, with different berries ripening at different times. Blueberries peak in late July/early August.
How to Reach: Berry patches are found throughout Alaska along hiking trails, roadsides, and in national parks. Ask locals for their favorite (non-secret) spots.
Price: Free! Just bring containers and follow any local regulations about where picking is allowed.
Traveler Reviews: “We spent a morning picking blueberries near Hatcher Pass and made pancakes with them that night. The berries were so much sweeter than store-bought ones!” – Linda W., Iowa
Pro Tip: Learn to identify berries safely before picking. Make noise while picking to avoid surprising bears, who also love berries. Check regulations in national parks and other protected areas.
20. Experience the Midnight Sun
During Alaska’s summer months, the sun barely sets or doesn’t set at all, creating the phenomenon known as midnight sun. This creates unique opportunities for extended outdoor activities and spectacular photography.
Why Visit: Experience the surreal beauty of 20+ hours of daylight. The midnight sun allows for late-night hiking, fishing, and sightseeing when crowds are minimal.
Best Time: June 21 (summer solstice) offers the most daylight, but the midnight sun effect lasts from mid-May through early August in northern Alaska.
How to Reach: The effect is strongest in northern cities like Utqiagvik (Barrow), but is noticeable throughout Alaska during summer.
Price: Free to experience! Some hotels offer midnight sun viewing packages or late-night activity tours.
Traveler Reviews: “Taking photos at midnight with full daylight was incredible. We hiked until 2 AM and it felt like afternoon. Definitely brought blackout curtains for sleeping!” – Mark L., Texas
Pro Tip: Bring eye masks or blackout curtains for sleeping. The extended daylight can disrupt sleep patterns. Take advantage by planning late-night activities when tourist attractions are less crowded.
21. Tour a Gold Rush Town
Alaska’s gold rush heritage lives on in towns like Skagway, Dawson City, and Fairbanks. These communities preserve the excitement and history of the late 1800s gold discoveries that shaped Alaska’s development.
Why Visit: Step back in time to experience the wild days of the Klondike Gold Rush. Historic buildings, museums, and demonstrations bring this exciting era to life.
Best Time: May through September when all attractions and historic sites are open. Summer also features special events and reenactments.
How to Reach: Skagway is accessible by cruise ship or driving the Alaska Highway. Fairbanks has a major airport with daily flights from Anchorage and Seattle.
Price: Self-guided walking tours are free. Museum admissions range from $10-20. Gold panning experiences cost $15-30 per person.
Traveler Reviews: “Walking through Skagway felt like being in a Western movie. The park rangers in period costumes really brought the gold rush stories to life!” – Carol J., Maryland
Pro Tip: Try gold panning – you might actually find some! Many shops sell gold panning kits, and some locations guarantee you’ll find at least a few flakes.
22. Take a Bush Plane Adventure
Bush planes are essential transportation in Alaska, reaching remote areas inaccessible by road. Taking a bush plane flight offers incredible scenery and access to pristine wilderness areas.
Why Visit: Experience Alaska’s aviation heritage while reaching remote fishing spots, hiking areas, or simply enjoying spectacular aerial views of untouched wilderness.
Best Time: May through September for best weather conditions. Summer offers the longest days and most stable flying weather.
How to Reach: Bush plane services operate from most Alaskan cities, with major hubs in Anchorage, Fairbanks, and smaller communities throughout the state.
Price: Scenic flights start around $150 per person. Transportation to remote destinations ranges from $300-800+ depending on distance and group size.
Traveler Reviews: “Our bush pilot flew us to a remote lake for fishing. Landing on the water was thrilling, and we caught salmon all day with no other people around!” – Paul M., Tennessee
Pro Tip: Weight restrictions are strictly enforced on small planes. Pack light and follow all baggage guidelines. Weather can cause delays, so build flexibility into your schedule.
23. Explore Anchorage’s Urban Wilderness
Anchorage uniquely combines city amenities with incredible wilderness access. The city features extensive trail systems, urban wildlife viewing, and outdoor activities just minutes from downtown.
Why Visit: Experience Alaska’s largest city while enjoying easy access to hiking, wildlife viewing, and outdoor recreation. Anchorage offers great restaurants and cultural attractions too.
Best Time: Year-round destination. Summer offers the best weather for outdoor activities, while winter provides opportunities for Northern Lights viewing and winter sports.
How to Reach: Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport is Alaska’s main transportation hub with direct flights from many US cities.
Price: Many outdoor activities are free, including hiking and wildlife viewing. Museum admissions range from $10-20. Restaurant meals cost $15-40 per person.
Traveler Reviews: “We saw a moose in downtown Anchorage! The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail was beautiful, and we could see Denali on clear days. Great mix of city and nature.” – Jennifer P., Washington
Pro Tip: Visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center and Anchorage Museum for excellent cultural experiences. The Saturday Market (summer only) features local crafts and food.
24. Go Glacier Trekking
Walking on glaciers provides an incredible perspective on these massive ice formations. Guided glacier treks use special equipment to safely explore crevasses, ice caves, and unique glacier features.
Why Visit: Experience Alaska’s iconic glaciers up close through glacier treks and ice trekking adventures. Walking on ancient ice and exploring ice formations is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Best Time: May through September when weather conditions are most favorable for glacier access and safety.
How to Reach: Popular glacier trekking destinations include Exit Glacier near Seward, Matanuska Glacier, and various glaciers accessible by helicopter or bush plane.
Price: Guided glacier treks range from $150-400 per person. Helicopter-accessed glacier walks cost $400-800.
Traveler Reviews: “Walking on Matanuska Glacier was surreal. Our guide showed us incredible ice formations and taught us about glacier movement. The blue ice was stunning!” – Kevin S., Virginia
Pro Tip: Wear sturdy hiking boots that can accommodate crampons. All specialized glacier equipment is typically provided by tour companies. Listen carefully to safety instructions.
25. Experience Alaska’s Wilderness Lodges
Alaska’s wilderness lodges offer luxury accommodations in remote, pristine locations. These lodges provide access to incredible fishing, wildlife viewing, and outdoor activities while maintaining comfortable amenities.
Why Visit: Combine adventure with comfort in some of the world’s most beautiful locations. Wilderness lodges offer guided activities, gourmet meals, and accommodations in truly remote settings.
Best Time: Most lodges operate May through September, with peak season in July and August for best weather and wildlife activity.
How to Reach: Most wilderness lodges are accessible only by small aircraft, with flights typically departing from Anchorage, Fairbanks, or other regional hubs.
Price: Wilderness lodge packages typically cost $500-2000+ per person per day, including accommodations, meals, and guided activities.
Traveler Reviews: “Our wilderness lodge experience was incredible. The fishing was fantastic, we saw bears daily, and the accommodations were surprisingly luxurious for being so remote!” – Richard D., Connecticut
Pro Tip: Book well in advance as the best lodges fill up quickly. Many lodges specialize in specific activities (fishing, bear viewing, etc.), so choose based on your interests.
Quick Comparison Guide
| Activity | Best Time | Price Range | Duration | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Denali National Park | May-Sep | $50-200 | Full day | Wildlife & scenery |
| Glacier Bay | May-Sep | $200-500 | Full day | Glaciers & whales |
| Alaska Railroad | May-Sep | $75-300 | 4-8 hours | Scenic views |
| Whale Watching | May-Sep | $120-300 | Half day | Marine wildlife |
| Northern Lights | Sep-Mar | $75-150 | Evening | Natural phenomena |
| Dog Sledding | Year-round | $150-250 | Half day | Cultural experience |
| Fishing | May-Sep | $250-400 | Full day | Adventure & food |
| Katmai Bears | Jul-Sep | $650+ | Full day | Wildlife photography |
| Kayaking | May-Sep | $125-500/day | Half-full day | Adventure & intimacy |
| Cultural Centers | Year-round | $15-25 | 2-4 hours | Education & culture |
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Alaska?
The best time to visit Alaska is May through September when weather is warmest and most attractions are open. July and August offer the warmest temperatures but also the biggest crowds and highest prices. May and September provide cooler weather but fewer tourists and potential Northern Lights viewing.
How much does an Alaska vacation cost?
Alaska vacations can range from budget-friendly to luxury depending on your choices. Budget travelers can expect to spend $150-200 per day including accommodations, meals, and activities. Mid-range trips typically cost $300-500 per day, while luxury experiences can exceed $800+ per day. Flights to Alaska add $400-800+ depending on your departure city.
What should I pack for Alaska?
Pack layers regardless of season! Even summer weather can be unpredictable. Essential items include:
Waterproof jacket and pants
Warm fleece or wool layers
Sturdy hiking boots
Hat and gloves (even in summer)
Sunglasses and sunscreen
Camera with extra batteries (cold drains batteries quickly)
Binoculars for wildlife viewing
Do I need a car in Alaska?
Having a car provides maximum flexibility for exploring Alaska, but it’s not always necessary. The Alaska Railroad connects major destinations, cruise ships include transportation, and many tour companies provide pickup services. In cities like Anchorage and Fairbanks, you can walk or use public transportation for many activities.
Is Alaska safe for tourists?
Alaska is generally very safe for tourists who use common sense. The main safety concerns are wildlife encounters (follow all guidelines for bear safety), weather changes (dress appropriately and check conditions), and remote area travel (inform others of your plans). Most tour operators prioritize safety and provide thorough briefings.
Can I see the Northern Lights in summer?
No, the Northern Lights require dark skies, which Alaska doesn’t have during summer months due to the midnight sun phenomenon. The best time to see auroras is September through March, with peak viewing from October through February.
What’s the difference between a cruise and land-based Alaska trip?
Cruises offer convenience and value, visiting multiple destinations without repacking. They’re great for seeing coastal areas and glaciers but limit time in each location. Land-based trips offer more flexibility, longer stays in destinations, and access to interior attractions like Denali and Fairbanks that cruises can’t reach.
Are there mosquitoes in Alaska?
Yes! Alaska’s mosquitoes are legendary, especially in interior and northern regions during summer. Peak mosquito season is June through August. Bring strong insect repellent, consider head nets for hiking, and choose accommodations with good screening if you’re sensitive to bugs.
Planning Your Perfect Alaska Adventure
Alaska truly offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re seeking heart-pounding adventures like glacier trekking and bear viewing, cultural experiences with Native Alaskan communities, or simply want to witness some of the world’s most spectacular natural phenomena, the Last Frontier delivers memories that last a lifetime.
The key to a successful Alaska trip is planning ahead while remaining flexible. Weather can change quickly, wildlife doesn’t follow schedules, and some of the best experiences happen when you least expect them. Book major activities and accommodations early, especially for summer travel, but leave room in your itinerary for spontaneous discoveries.
Alaska isn’t just a destination – it’s a transformative experience that changes how you see the world. From the moment you spot your first glacier calving into the sea or watch the Northern Lights dance across an impossibly wide sky, you’ll understand why Alaska captures hearts and imaginations like nowhere else on Earth.
Start planning your Alaska adventure today, and get ready for the trip of a lifetime in America’s last great wilderness. The bears, whales, glaciers, and incredible landscapes are waiting for you!