top places to visit alaska

15 Incredible & Best Places to Visit in Alaska

Alaska is the largest state in the USA, a vast landmass in the northwest of the country that’s separated from the rest of the states by Canada, and icy waterways. 

Alaska is remote, it’s isolated and it’s utterly stunning. While the cities, such as Anchorage and Juneau, have a lot to offer visitors, the best places to visit in Alaska are found in the wilderness. 

You can hike through spectacular national parks in summer, fly over epic mountain peaks such as Denali and land on dramatic glaciers.

You can learn about the indigenous people of Alaska, or get seriously remote with a trip to the Aleutian Islands. 

There’s so much to do, and to inspire your adventure, here are the best places to visit in Alaska! 

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Alaska (Regional Guide)

15 Best Places to Visit in Alaska

Table of Contents

Juneau is the understated state capital, and it’s one of the best places to visit in Alaska. 

This might be the state capital but it’s really just a small town, and having no road connections, it’s also one of the most isolated places in the USA. 

But Juneau has a lot to offer, including some excellent museums and cultural centers delving into both the indigenous and the European history of Alaska.

Like anywhere in the state though, the best sights are found in the outdoors. Visit the beautiful Mendenhall Glacier on the edge of the city, take boat tours through the Fjords in search of wildlife, whales, and dolphins, and ride the Aerial Tramway to the summit of Mount Roberts for the beat vistas in Juneau. 

Whale watching and visiting the Mendenhall Glacier are two of the most popular activities around Juneau.

Check them both off your list on this half-day combo tour that includes flexible departure times and round-trip transportation from Mt. Roberts Tramway.

2. Anchorage

It might not be the capital, but Anchorage is easily Alaska’s best-known city.  Anchorage is the largest city in the state and it’s much better connected than Juneau, the capital.

You can explore the city’s best museums, restaurants, cafes, and bars in Downtown, but save plenty of time to travel into the wilderness. 

From Anchorage, you’re a short flightseeing trip away from epic mountains and glaciers, while along the coast you can enjoy hiking and cycling trails, or take a boat along the Fjords. 

Anchorage is where the city meets the wilds, and there are few other places in the USA where you’ll find moose and bears casually strolling through the streets! 

Get to know Anchorage on this 3-hour guided tour that takes you around the city’s top sites , including the port, Earthquake Park, Lake Hood, and Bootleggers Cove.

Gain further insight into Alaska’s indigenous cultures with an upgrade to visit the renowned Alaska Native Heritage Center.

3. Fairbanks 

Fairbanks is one of the most remote places in the USA. The small city is found in the wild interior of the state, and it’s one of the best places to visit in Alaska. 

Fairbanks is a long way from anywhere, but it’s the largest city away from the coast, and the second-largest city in Alaska after Anchorage. 

This is the hub for the region and if you’re looking to explore the real wilds of Alaska then Fairbanks makes the perfect base.

In winter, you can spot the Northern Lights from the city, or marvel at ice sculptures across the city.

In summer you can hike and search for wildlife, and all year round you can visit the excellent Fairbanks Museum of the North.

Get to know Alaska’s past and present on this 5.5-hour tour in Fairbanks led by an informative guide .

Enjoy the Museum of the North’s story of Alaska’s natural and cultural heritage, and admire the art installations at the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitor Center.

4. Denali National Park 

One of the best places to visit in Alaska is the legendary Denali National Park. 

Named for Denali, the highest mountain peak in North America , this is the most famous national Park in Alaska. 

While you might not be climbing the mountain, which rises to almost 7000 meters in height, you can enjoy hiking in summer and snow sports in winter. 

You can reach Denali in 5 hours by car from Anchorage, but the best way to travel here is to take the train or to join a flightseeing tour that flies over the park and around the mountain. You might even be able to land on a glacier. 

Let someone else take care of planning and driving on this Denali backcountry excursion .

A driver and guide take you sightseeing along the full 92.5 miles (150 kilometers) of the Denali National Park Road to the Backcountry Lodge.

After lunch there, choose between gold panning, a naturalist-guided hike, or a botany walk. For convenience, you’re picked up directly from major hotels near Denali.

5. Chugach State Park

Even closer to Anchorage, you can find one of the best places to visit in Alaska. Chugach State Park quite literally begins where the boundaries of the city end. 

This beautiful state park is home to a huge variety of wildlife, and you’ll quickly spot the likes of bears and moose, classic Alaskan animals, in their natural habitat. 

Get out of the city and deeper into the Alaskan wilderness than is typical, on this great sightseeing tour .

This small-group tour takes you to Chugach National Forest, Beluga Point, Portage Glacier, and more to spot brown bears, wolves, bison, and belugas.

6. Lake Clark National Park 

One of the most beautiful places to visit in Alaska is Lake Clark National Park . 

Located just 100 miles away from Anchorage it’s also incredibly accessible. Lake Clark is a huge, jaw-dropping lake that glistens in glorious shades of blue and turquoise in the sunshine. 

As well as lakes and rivers though, the national park is well known for its steaming volcanic peaks, and wildlife.

The waterways are home to huge populations of salmon, and the salmon attract plenty of bears in the spring and summer. 

7. Gates of the Arctic National Park  

Head to the far north of the state to explore one of the most remote, yet one of the best places to visit in Alaska. 

This is the place to travel to if you want to see the Arctic Circle because this national park is found entirely within the Arctic Circle.

In fact, this is the most northerly national park in the United States, and even getting here will be a challenge in itself. 

Make the long journey to the Gates of the Arctic National Park, and you’ll be able to explore this icy realm and delve deep into the local communities that have adapted to thrive in this cold part of the world. 

Discover the Alaskan wilderness on this 3 or 4-day guided trip from Fairbanks that includes overnight accommodation . Soak up spectacular scenery at the Arctic National Park, perhaps spotting wildlife like grizzlies and sheep.

Enjoy plenty of hikes, including one on the high plateau of Finger Mountain, check out an Alaskan oil field, and learn about the region’s gold-mining history and more.

8. Coldfoot and Wiseman 

Coldfoot and Wiseman are two unique villages found in the Arctic. These are two famous pit stops on the road north, home to just a few residents and a couple of bed and breakfasts and camping areas. 

They primarily supply and rest stops, but they are much more than this too.

Spend the night on your way north in a truly authentic Arctic community that’s often cut off from the world for many of the long winter months. 

9. Chena Hot Springs 

The Chena Hot Springs is one of the best places to visit in Alaska, especially if you’re looking to escape the cold. 

Take a trip to the Chena Hot Springs, just a quick 50-mile detour from Fairbanks, and you’ll be able to soak up the natural mineral water, warm up in the arctic climate and enjoy some beautiful surroundings. 

You can stay at the Chena Hot Springs Resort if you’re looking for a slice of luxury in the wilderness. 

Discover Alaska’s natural hot springs and amazing ice sculptures on a full-day tour to Chena Hot Springs .

Enjoy a scenic 60-mile (95-km) drive from your hotel to Chena Hot Springs, where you can soak in the large outdoor pool of this legendary resort.

Tour how Chena Hot Springs makes use of geothermal energy to power the resort, and check out the sculptures in the Aurora Ice Museum.

10. Glacier Bay National Park 

Close to the city of Juneau, you can find one of the best places to visit in Alaska. 

Glacier Bay National Park , as the name would suggest, is home to some of Alaska’s most impressive glacial landscapes.

Many of the glaciers drop straight into the bay itself, and the best way to see them is to take a boat ride or to kayak in the shadow of these icy behemoths. 

11. Kenai Fjords

Kenai Fjords are one of the best places to visit in Alaska. This beautiful, protected national park is located off the Kenai Peninsula where you can find the largest icefield in the USA. 

The best way to explore the waterways and glaciers, if of course by taking a boat cruise. 

Watch the Alaskan wilderness awaken on this 6-hour morning cruise through Kenai Fjords National Park from Seward . Cruise past alpine and tidewater glaciers among the fjords and take in a bounty of wildlife.

Enjoy a delicious lunch on board, and visit the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge for great views of seabird rookeries.

12. Katmai National Park

Alaska is home to a huge number of national parks, but one not to miss will always be the Katmai National Park. 

The huge national park is centered around an enormous volcano, and this is the best place in the country to see large numbers of brown bears in the wild. 

13. Skagway 

If you’re looking for a destination that’s not just about the landscapes and wildlife then take a trip to the town of Skagway. 

Located along the Inside Passage, Skagway was an important hub during the Klondike Gold Rush era and much of the town has been preserved into a historic relic from these boom days. 

You can visit Klondike inspired museums and heritage buildings and even ride the old gold rush era steam engines along the railroad. 

This is not a run-of-the-mill sled excursion, it packs in several fun activities and concludes with a treat that’s hard not to love.

Follow your guide on a short tour of downtown Skagway , hop on a Unimog for a ride up a mountain, and then take a sled ride with Alaskan huskies through Tongass National Park.

Afterward, get a chance to spend time with husky puppies.

14. Aleutian Islands

The Aleutian Islands are one of the best places to visit in Alaska, but getting there isn’t exactly easy. 

These distant islands spread from the mainland, west into the Bering Sea, and they are comprised of a large number of volcanic Islands and atolls, only a few of which are inhabited.

The islands have a unique history and were, in fact, the scene of a fierce battle between invading Japanese forces and defending Allied troops.

A few of the islands were occupied, making this the only part of the USA to be occupied during World War II by the Japanese. 

Today you can not only explore unknown battlefields, but you can marvel at the isolation and Remote beauty of the volcanoes and peaks on these dramatic Alaskan islands. 

15. Inside Passage 

The Inside Passage is one of the most spectacular travel routes in North America and one of the best places to visit in Alaska. 

The Inside Passage is the route that’s often taken by cruise ships , and a route that was taken by pioneering colonists and explorers on their way north in the 19th century. 

The sheltered and relatively calm Inside Passage takes ships along the Canadian coastline and into Alaska, reaching Juneau.

Along the way the views and the scenery are mesmerizing, and this really is the best way to arrive in the state! 

More on Alaska:

• Best Time to Visit Alaska: Month by Month Breakdown
• 13 UNREAL Things to Do in Juneau, Alaska
• 15 Cannot Miss Things to do in Anchorage
• 21 Alluring Things to do in Alaska
• 13 Epic Things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska (Besides Northern Lights)
• 5 Best Alaska Road Trip Routes (Ultimate Planning Guide!)
• Alaska National Parks: The Fabulous 8
• Is Spring the Best Time to Cruise Alaska?

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I have always been an outdoorsman so becoming an adventure traveler was just the next natural step. I love nature, I love to get off the beaten path and I like to explore. I enjoy scuba diving and cars. And yes, Lina and I have a naked dog.

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The Top 15 Destinations in Alaska

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

Alaska is a vast and rugged land, home to 17 of America’s highest peaks, with thousands of rivers (including the Yukon River), more than 3 million lakes, and more active ice fields and glaciers than anywhere else in the world. Travelers venture to The Last Frontier to see wildlife, set foot in eight different national parks, gaze up at star-filled skies, marvel at the aurora borealis, learn about local cultural groups and native history, and experience adventure-filled activities like dog mushing, hiking, flightseeing, and kayaking. Keep reading to discover the top 15 destinations in the U.S.’s 49th state.

Aurora Borealis in Fairbanks

Dark skies, deep in an Alaskan winter, can last 16-18 hours per day, which is conducive to seeing dancing bars of light caused by electrically charged particles from the sun that strike the gases in our atmosphere. See the Aurora Borealis, on a clear night, in Fairbanks and brace for the cold temperatures, which can drop to well below freezing. The northern light-viewing season is between mid-September and late April, with March being the peak, though there are no guarantees. A good resource for Aurora hunters is the Space Weather Prediction Center .

Mendenhall Glacier

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Near Juneau, the state capital, Mendenhall Glacier is one of the most remarkable sights to see in Alaska. This 13-mile long glacier ends at Mendenhall lake and is easily seen from the Mendenhall Visitor Center . Bring your camera and take the short walk down Photo Point Trail, continue on to Nugget Falls, and hike the Trail of Time. You can also see the glacier from a kayak or on a canoe tour.

The Alaska Highway

Kevin Smith / Design Pics / Getty Images

The scenery on the Alaska Highway, also known as Alaska-Canadian Highway, is something straight out of Jon Krakauer’s "Into the Wild." From Dawson Creek in British Columbia, through the Yukon Territory, to Delta Junction, this stretch of road was built during WWII to connect the lower 48 states to Alaska via Canada and is now a favorite experience for road trippers.

Artie Photography (Artie Ng) / Getty Images

The southern tip of the Inside Passage is the ideal location for views of Deer Mountain and Tongass Narrows, where you’ll hear float planes, fishing boats, ferries, and barges. On Tongass Avenue, you’ll see pastel-colored homes built on stilts, hanging over the water. Wander along Creek Street, a boardwalk in Ketchikan, for shopping and to take photographs of historic buildings. Day fishing trips, flight tours, kayaking, and hiking are all fun to do as well.

Prince William Sound

Naphat Photography / Getty Images

Prince William Sound is an inlet of the Gulf of Alaska. You'll be able to see towering tidewater glaciers as you venture into Blackstone Bay, home to Blackstone and Beloit Glaciers, which reach 200 feet high. Cruise into Harriman Fjord to get a look at Surprise Glacier and listen as chunks of ice fall—or calve—into the water, making a loud booming sound. Waterfalls, bird rookeries, rafts of sea otters, and floating harbor seals all can be spotted.

Denali National Park

TripSavvy / Alisha McDarris

Formerly known as Mount McKinley, Denali is the highest peak in North America, stretching 20,310 feet above sea level to the summit. Visit Denali National Park , in the northern Alaskan Range, to get a peek at this wonder as you travel down the only road in the park. You’ll likely see moose drinking water out of braided rivers, grizzly bears wandering the tundra, and Dall sheep clinging to hilltops dotted with spruce trees. Pursuit , an experiential tour company, can arrange for a custom tour of Alaska’s interior as well as Denali National Park.  

Anchorage is the state's largest city, housing 236,000 people and as such, there's an abundance of things to do. One highlight is the Anchorage Museum , which tells the tales of Alaska’s native peoples. See a Tlingit war helmet, an  Iñupiaq feast bowl , and artifacts from the Yup’ik and Cup’ik Eskimo peoples. Or take some time to learn about Inuit tattooing, a practice that is still done today, by women for women, to signify cultural belonging and a rite of passage. You can also see art created by Alaskan artists, thousands of photographs, and explore space at the Thomas Planetarium.

The Alaska Railroad

A delightful way to see Alaska is via train and the Alaska Railroad has five great routes for varying interests: Coastal Classic, Glacier Discovery, Denali Star, Hurricane Turn, and Aurora Winter. The main line travels 470 miles from Seward to Fairbanks, linking several communities along the way. Take the option for GoldStar Service for an upper-level seat under a large glass-domed ceiling, access to a full-service dining car, and an Alaskan tour guide who will narrate throughout the trip.

Talkeetna is small but entirely indelible. Taste fireweed ice cream; learn about Stubbs, the cat that had mayoral duties; take a flightseeing tour; go on a guided river rafting trip; visit the art galleries; or shop around the town for Alaskan goods. There are a number of year-round events to take part in as well like the Talkeetna Winterfest, Talkeetna Bluegrass Festival, and Talkeetna Trio. Beer lovers should pop in the brewery taproom to sample one of 20 Denali Brewing Co. brews on tap.

Inside Passage

Betty Wiley / Getty Images

Massive glaciers carved out the Inside Passage millions of years ago, which is now home to bald eagle habitats, sea lions, dolphins, and migrating whales. You’ll see Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian totem poles, domed Russian churches, and large forests. The area is marked by three distinct sub-locations: the Northern Region, where Haines, Juneau, Sitka, and Skagway are located; Glacier Bay Area, home to Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve ; and the Southern Region, where Tongass National Forest and Totem Bight State Historical Park sit. 

Katmai National Park and Preserve

Grant Ordelheide / Aurora Photos / Getty Images

Located in the northern Alaska Peninsula, Katmai National Park and Preserve isn’t easy to get to—you must arrive by plane or boat—but it is definitely worth it. Especially if you want to increase your chances of seeing a grizzly bear in the wild. In the park, there are three viewing platforms, located in Brooks Camp, on the south side of Brooks River. Around 2,200 brown bears inhabit the park, which means that there are more bears on the Alaska Peninsula than there are people.

Tracy Arm Fjord

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Forty-five miles south of Juneau sits the 27-mile-long Tracy Arm Fjord, a narrow waterway surrounded by craggy cliffs. Part of the Tongass National Forest, this icy natural wonder is worth venturing out to see. Bring binoculars and look for bears, eagles, and whales on a full-day boat tour. 

Seward and the Kenai Peninsula

The small town of Seward is the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park , Mount Marathon, Resurrection Bay, and Bear Glacier. Visit Alaska SeaLife Center to learn about marine mammal rehabilitation, take photos of the Seward boat harbor, and visit Miller’s Landing for wildlife viewing. The Seward Community Library and Museum is worth visiting to learn about the town’s history and culture.

John Elk / Getty Images

Wooden sidewalks lead to old saloons and historic buildings in Skagway, making it feel like you’ve been transported back in time to the Klondike gold rush. Tourists descend on the town via cruise ships in the summer making it the most crowded time of year. You can take a history tour of the Skagway historic district, hike on one of the many trails that lead to lakes and waterfalls, see Davidson Glacier, wander through the Klondike Gold Rush National Historic Park, and visit Skagway Museum and Archives .

The Iditarod Race in Nome

 Jeffrey Walters / Getty Images

Downtown Anchorage is the start of the Iditarod on the first Saturday of March, with festivities lasting for a week prior to the race, including the Fur Rendevous . Many viewers, who come into town to see the action, also decide to tour other remote checkpoints along the 1,000-mile route. The race ends in Nome, and it’s a sight to see the mushers fly across the finish line. Visit a kennel before the race and try out dog sledding for yourself, indulge in a flightseeing adventure during the race, or volunteer to help with the dogs. You can also watch the results via a live stream.

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To minimize your environmental footprint consider a small-ship cruise © Mint Images / Getty Images 

With vast swaths of wilderness, communities that are only accessible by boat or plane, and plenty of untamed characters who’ve chosen to live in one of the most rural and dramatic landscapes in the United States, it’s no surprise that Alaska is called the Last Frontier.

The hardest part of planning a trip to Alaska is knowing what to do and how many great places to put on your itinerary. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures in Alaska's amazing national parks , to spot wildlife, or to admire the northern lights, you will find memorable and fascinating experiences at every turn.

These are the top things to do in Alaska.

1. Take to the water on a cruise in Alaska

Alaska cruising is big business and one of the most popular ways to see the state. Every summer, dozens of mega-ships make their way through the waters of Alaska’s Inside Passage, visiting communities only accessible by boat (and plane), such as Sitka , Ketchikan  and Juneau , the state capital. 

Excursions vary across ports, including flightseeing tours that take you over vast ice fields, fishing excursions that troll the deep waterways of the region, and cultural tours that bring the vibrant communities of Alaska’s Native people to life. Many people make their first trip to Alaska on a cruise because it’s an easy way to experience the state without diving into trickier travel logistics.

Planning tip:  There are numerous options when picking an Alaska cruise, and your primary constraints are your travel style and budget . To minimize your environmental footprint and better support local economies, consider a small-ship cruise. Several operators, including Alaskan Dream Cruises , UnCruise Adventures  and John Hall’s Alaska , offer similar itineraries to the big ships but can venture deeper into southeastern Alaska’s waterways and visit smaller communities that also need tourism support.

2. Immerse yourself in the wilderness of Denali National Park

What makes  Denali National Park special is both what you’ll find there and what you won’t. As one of the nation’s largest national parks, Denali is a huge space of wilderness, perhaps the largest undeveloped space you’ll ever experience. It's also one of the best places to see wildlife in Alaska, and you might spot moose, grizzly bears, Dall sheep, caribou, and wolves, as well as smaller mammals and many species of birds. But the national park’s highlight is Denali itself, the tallest mountain in North America. Covered in snow year-round, the “High One” stands head and shoulders above the rest of the Alaska Range.

The best way to visit Denali National Park is by booking one of the official bus tours. You can’t drive private vehicles past mile marker 15 of the 92-mile dirt road. But the buses go farther into the park and help limit the environmental impact of tourism in one of the last truly wild and undeveloped places in the United States.

Planning tip: Denali National Park is generally only open during the summer season , but you can also visit in the shoulder months of May and September to try and avoid some of the crowds. At present, work is ongoing on Park Road due to a landslide, meaning buses can only go as far as Mile 43 . Authorities say this will remain the case until summer 2026.

Start crafting your budget with these tips.

3. Spot Alaska’s "Big Five" and other major mammals

Alaska has plenty of opportunities to see wildlife, but most visitors focus on trying to see the “Big Five”: moose, grizzly bears, caribou, Dall sheep, and gray wolves. Similar in concept to southern Africa’s Big Five, these five large mammals live throughout Alaska, and seeing all of them on a single visit is considered a lucky and successful trip.

All five animals can be seen in Denali National Park, but you can spot them in other parts of the state, too. If you want to guarantee success, take a trip to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center south of Anchorage. Along the way, you can look for Dall sheep on the Seward Highway’s rocky cliffside and spot the other four animals at the rehabilitation center. Many travelers to Alaska also visit to see whales. Alaska’s waterways are home to several whale species. Humpback whales migrate north to Alaska during the summer and always delight the people on ships in their vicinity. It’s also common to see orcas (killer whales) and small white belugas in the waterways of coastal Alaska.

4. Be mesmerized by the northern lights

If you are planning to visit Alaska in the winter, you’re likely doing so for one reason: to see the aurora borealis (northern lights). Watching the phenomenon – caused by solar particles interacting with atoms in the atmosphere – is mesmerizing because the panels of light seem to dance across the dark winter sky.

As the top destination in the US for viewing the aurora borealis, there are several spots throughout Alaska where the dancing lights regularly appear. The best place to base yourself is in Fairbanks , in Alaska’s central interior. Here you’ll be right under the Auroral Oval, a part of Earth’s atmosphere where aurora can appear directly overhead.

Fairbanks experiences the aurora more than 200 nights per year, but it is only visible during the dark winter months; the best time to visit Alaska for peak aurora activity is around the equinoxes in September and March.

Planning tip: Plan ahead, wear lots of layers (temperatures regularly drop far below freezing), and give yourself at least three nights on your itinerary to maximize your chances of clear skies and aurora activity.

Heading to the Alaska with your family? Here are the best things to do with kids.

5. Ride the Alaska Railroad

One aspect of Alaska that surprises many first-time visitors is how little travel infrastructure there is: the Alaska highway system has just four routes, and there’s only one railway line in the whole state. It pays to plan ahead.

The Alaska Railroad was built in the early 20th century and was one of few federally funded railroad lines in the US. Today, it is operated by the state of Alaska, and it shuttles visitors between a handful of stops along the 400-mile route. Seward , Anchorage , Talkeetna , Denali and Fairbanks are the most common stops visited.

Planning tip:  The best way to experience the Alaska Railroad is by tying it into other travel plans. Wherever possible, splurge for the upper-class seats that often include a glass-domed train car where you can watch the splendor of Alaska pass by unobstructed. You can take the train to and from Denali National Park or ride it down to Seward to explore Kenai Fjords National Park.

6. Spot sealife and glaciers in Kenai Fjords National Park

While many visitors focus on Denali National Park, there’s another national park that’s easy to visit – well, easy by Alaska standards, which is to say that you can drive there. Kenai Fjords National Park covers a swath of water, mountain, and shoreline in south-central Alaska. The gateway city to visit this park is Seward , a 2.5-hour drive south of Anchorage along the Seward Highway.

The only part of Kenai Fjords National Park that’s accessible by car is Exit Glacier near Seward. A short, easy hike educates visitors about glaciology and shows the markers that demonstrate this glacier’s rapid recession. The Kenai River Trail is also one of the best hikes in Alaska . But don’t let that be your only experience of Kenai Fjords National Park! From Seward, you can book any number of day cruises that will take you out into the waterways that comprise the majority of the park. There you’ll spot sea birds, otters, sea lions, orcas, and – if you’re lucky – humpback whales that migrate from Hawaii to this part of Alaska during the summer.

Planning tip: Cruise companies don't operate in Kenai Fjords during the winter.  

Save this transportation guide to get around in Alaska.

7. Soak in the Chena Hot Springs

An hour outside Fairbanks, Chena Hot Springs draws visitors year-round, especially in the winter after a night out admiring the northern lights. This is one of the few developed and easily accessible hot springs in Alaska, though there are many natural and undeveloped springs that are known mainly to locals. At Chena Hot Springs, you can dip in one of two hot spring pools; the outdoor one is a real treat during the frigid winter months when condensation from the hot water will cause ice crystals to form on your hair and eyelashes.

Planning tip:  Chena Hot Springs Resort also offers other experiences on its property, including tours of an Ice Museum, hiking or snowshoeing depending on the season, and late-night aurora-viewing excursions.

This article was first published October 2021 and updated March 2024

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10 Best Places to Visit in Alaska

Although it is physically separate from the rest of the United States , Alaska is one of the most scenic and fascinating parts of the country. Its seclusion only adds to the beauty and mystery of the 49th state, making it an appealing getaway spot for intrepid travelers and nature lovers.

Along with the major cities like Anchorage , it is important to get out and experience the natural landmarks and attractions that make Alaska so beloved. As you plan your next trip’s itinerary, be sure to include as many of the following best places to visit in Alaska as possible.

10. Wrangell St. Elias National Park [SEE MAP]

Three mountain ranges called the Chugach, the Wrangell and the St. Elias converge in an area that is known as the Mountain Kingdom of North America. In the heart of this kingdom, you’ll come across the vast Wrangell St. Elias National Park, the largest national park in the U.S.

The park is home to a number of informative visitor centers and ranger stations, but you can also get off the beaten track with ease and explore glacier hiking trails or overnight camping adventures. Hunting, fishing, mountain biking and kayaking are other popular pastimes in in the Wrangell St. Elias National Park.

9. Anchorage [SEE MAP]

Although it isn’t the capital, Anchorage is the largest city in the state of Alaska. Almost half the state’s residents live in or around the city, as Anchorage serves as the economic heart of Alaska. It offers the comforts of a large US city but is only a 30-minute drive from the Alaskan wilderness.

You may want to start your time in Anchorage by visiting the Anchorage Museum of History and Art, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center or the Alaska Native Heritage Center. Then, drive along the Seward Highway to Potter’s Marsh for incredible bird watching or set off on a hike along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail.

8. Ketchikan [SEE MAP]

The southernmost city in Alaska is Ketchikan, a scenic destination known for being the first stop for many cruise ships that head north along the coast. Located at the foot of Deer Mountain, Ketchikan is home to a wide range of attractions.

Visitors may want to stop in at the Totem Heritage Center, the Tongass Historical Museum or the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center. The most scenic downtown stretch is historic Creek Street, which is only a short distance away from the cruise ship docks. Once a rowdy red-light district, these days Creek Street is home to a quieter class of establishment but still retains its delightful historic charm.

Ketchikan is a hub for outdoor adventures, and there is no shortage of guided day tours to do things like salmon fishing, hiking through the Tongass National Forest or ziplining through the tree canopy.

7. Glacier Bay National Park [SEE MAP]

In what is known as the Panhandle of Alaska is the Glacier Bay National Park, a world-renowned spot to admire glaciers, get active outdoors and see wildlife. Kayaking is an amazing way to get around the park and see a lot at the same time, and kayaks are available for rent or through guided tours.

In Bartlett Cove, hiking trails wind in and around glaciers. Two of the most visited and most photographed spots in the park are Muir Inlet, which is off limits to motorized boats, and the John Hopkins Glacier.

6. Homer [SEE MAP]

If you’re interested in exploring nature or doing some fishing, then Homer should absolutely be on your Alaskan itinerary. Located on the Kenai Peninsula, Homer is known as the fishing capital of Alaska, and it serves as a gateway to a number of national parks.

While you’re in Homer, you can walk along the beach to the iconic Homer Spit, drive up Skyline Drive for fantastic views or spot wildlife in Kachemak Bay State Park, where you’ll find mountain goats, bald eagles, sea lions, humpback whales and black bears.

Day-long halibut fishing trips are incredibly popular, and you’re all but guaranteed an impressive haul that local restaurants will happily cook up for your dinner.

5. Juneau [SEE MAP]

The capital city of Alaska is Juneau, which serves as a major port for cruise ships through the area. It is also home to major attractions such as the Alaska State Museum, the Alaska State Capitol and the incredibly serene Shrine of St Therese.

For excellent views over Juneau, ride on the Mount Roberts Tramway, and from the top set off on one of the many hiking trails overlooking the city. Juneau is also home to a number of breweries, and there are multiple companies offering brewery tours to warm you up on a cold day.

Head to Front Street for plenty of excellent souvenir shops and local restaurants where you can sample regional cuisine.

4. Mendenhall Glacier [SEE MAP]

Just a short drive from the city of Juneau is the Mendenhall Glacier, an enormous glacier that is calving, or separating, into its own adjacent lake. There are a number of different ways to experience the glacier, ranging from a simple shuttle ride to see it up close or a helicopter ride to truly appreciate the sheer size of the glacier.

The fittest visitors may want to try out the Mendenhall Glacier West Glacier Trail, which is very challenging but provides incredible opportunities for photography. Also worth a visit is the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, which includes exhibits about the glacier as well as several viewing platforms.

3. Kenai Fjords National Park [SEE MAP]

Visiting the Kenai Fjords National Park is like stepping back in time to the ice age. Glaciers and ice caps still exist and touch the edge of the ocean, creating dramatic and unforgettable views.

Half of the park is covered in ice year-round, and there are deep fjords that have resulted where the water valleys are formed. These fjords are the ideal home to a lot of aquatic wildlife, and you’ll easily spot migrating whales as well as birds swooping down to feed on the fish in the water.

Because of the icy conditions, many visitors choose to visit the Kenai Fjords National Park on a guided day tour, although there are limited accommodation choices in the park itself.

2. Katmai National Park [SEE MAP]

In Southwestern Alaska is the Katmai National Park, a scenic retreat close to both Homer and Kodiak Island. At the heart of the park is the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, an enormous ash flow that remained after the 1912 eruption of the Novarupta Volcano.

Also in the Katmai National Park are incredible opportunities to get up close and personal with the local wildlife. In particular, you can spot brown bears who feed on the local salmon. Fishing is also a popular pastime thanks to the abundance of rainbow trout and salmon.

1. Denali National Park [SEE MAP]

One of the famous and most popular places to visit in Alaska is the Denali National Park. Home to the iconic and towering peak of Denali (also known as Mount McKinley), which is the country’s highest mountain, Denali National Park is a protected wilderness area where all kind of wildlife can be seen. Spot bears, moose, wolves and more while walking along the Savage River, admiring the stillness of Wonder Lake or hiking through Polychrome Pass.

Hiking, whitewater rafting and back-country camping are popular ways to explore the national park, but there are also bus tours for a climate-controlled and safer way to get around. Short, ranger-led trail walks are available from the Denali Visitor Center, where you’ll also find informative and educational exhibits.

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Reader interactions.

September 12, 2019 at 11:51 am

I have been to Alaska and it is great

January 18, 2018 at 2:37 pm

Hi I’m Sam, 24 years old, and Ive lived up here since i was born. Alaska has so much to offer. The Northern Lights arent out every night but you can catch them in the middle of the night closer to midnight or the early morning.

June 20, 2017 at 8:41 pm

I am thinking of coming to Alaska next year. I would like to stay in a big city or town with lots to do. I would also like to see the northern lights. Also I’m interested. In 24 hour days and nights. I’m a country girl living the city life and I like both. Joe my husband is a city mouse. We also love zip lines. What all could we get to do there in Alaska.

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25+ of the Best Places to Visit in Alaska (2024)

Awe-inspiring Northern Lights. Charming coastal towns. Stunning National parks.

These are 25 of the best places to visit in Alaska, ranging from the biggest cities to the most gorgeous nature preserves and tiny towns in one of the five Alaskan region that have a story to tell.

As the largest state in the US and one of the most sparsely populated, planning the best places to go in Alaska can feel daunting.

It’s not so easy to just hop from place to place, and sometimes you need a combination of plane and snowmobile to get there!

And, of course, you should make sure you are aware of the varying sunlight hours in Alaska, with the winter months having almost none in some areas and the summer months having a seriously impressive amount (up to 24 hours in some places on some days!)

Here are the best places to visit in Alaska, from Fairbanks to Sitka to Denali to the Yukon Delta.

What to Pack for Alaska

If you’re coming to Alaska in the summer, then you’ll be good with layers (shorts and shirts during the day, longer layers for in the evening), but if you’re coming in the winter, you need to make sure you’re prepped for a truly Alaska winter wardrobe (read: ALLLLL kinds of bundled up because you’re about to be freezing!)

• Sturdy pair of winter boots – your feet are one of the most important places to keep dry and warm in a Duluth winter, and they’re going to be exposed to a lot between the salt, the slush, and the bitter cold. Make sure to invest in a quality pair of winter boots like these for women and these for men.
• Warm beanie – beanies are all the rage in Alaska when the cold comes, and you can get them in so many different colors. Get a fun pattern like this one , or go plain with ones like these .
• Warm socks – did you know that you also need to think about your socks? Yeah, leave your short summer ones at home. Invest in a pair of warm socks like these to give you an extra layer of protection.
• Wool or fleece leggings – for the girls who are wanting to keep extra warm underneath your jeans or are going bare-legged in your dress for a night out on the town, invest in fleece leggings like these to keep your legs extra warm.
• Gloves with touchscreen technology – there’s nothing worse than having to constantly take your gloves off to text or dial phone numbers or look up directions, so invest in a warm pair of gloves with touchscreen technology like these .
• Warm coat – you want a super warm, down coat or sturdy coat through a brand like North Face to get you through the Alaska winters. Your thin hoodie isn’t going to cut it!
• Turtleneck – turtlenecks are totally in fashion in a Alaska winter, especially layered underneath all of your other clothes. The key is to bundle up from bottom to top, so don’t leave your neck out and try a fashionable turtleneck like this.
• Thick scarf – no matter who you are or what kind of fashion you’re into, you’re sure to find a thick scarf that makes sense for your wardrobe, and this is a fantastic way to add another layer of warmth and act as a shield against the biting winds.

1. Anchorage

The largest city in Alaska, Anchorage is one of Alaska’s main hubs for culture, outdoor adventure, and wildlife viewing.

Check out this amazing Anchorage tour to see the city and beyond, or check out my guide to the best Anchorage tours if you want more options.

Spend your day at the Alaska Zoo , where you can check out both native and Alaskan animals, or go walking in Kincaid Park for some fresh air and great water views.

You can also go to the Alaska Native Heritage Center for an introduction to indigenous life and appreciate native dwellings.

Flight gurus will fall in love with the Alaska Aviation Museum , filled with replicas of historic planes and a flight simulator so you can take to the skies in your own way.

There are also breweries, coffee shops, restaurants, and stores that you would expect from city life like Costco, Target, and Walmart, so you don’t have to worry about forgetting anything!

Anchorage is home to the University of Alaska Anchorage, as well as Alaska Pacific University, and has a sizeable student population.

Many people use Anchorage as a base for exploring the surrounding wilderness, including Chugah State Park, the Knik River, and more.

How to Get There: Fly into the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, or drive.

Where to Stay: The Lakefront Anchorage ( Click here to check out rooms and prices ).

2. Fairbanks

Located in the Interior of Alaska, Fairbanks is known for its incredible aurora borealis viewing opportunities, and many people come here to “chase the aurora.”

The second most populated city in Alaska, Fairbanks has a thriving cultural scene that includes the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitor’s Center , as well as the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum .

If you need to stretch your legs, Pioneer Park offers some space to run around, and sports fans will find hockey games at the nearby Carlson Center.

Like Anchorage, there are plenty of bars, restaurants, and stores so you’re very much in a thriving area with plenty of resources in case you don’t want to cook or need to go buy some warmer clothes!

From Fairbanks, visitors go in search of the Alaskan wilderness by following the Tanana River or checking out the Chena River State Recreation Area.

If you’ve come for aurora season specifically, you can go on a guided tour of the Northern Lights from Fairbanks that helps you find the best places to see the lights, or you can do it yourself by bookmarking places like Creamer’s Field, a bird sanctuary with often excellent views, as well as pullovers on the Steese Highway or the Murphy Dome.

How to Get There: Fly into Fairbanks International Airport, or drive.

Where to Stay: Pike’s Waterfront Lodge ( Click here to check out rooms and prices ).

Known as one of the most wild places in Alaska where you can still get modern amenities, Nome is a mining town that was incredibly popular back in the days of the Gold Rush.

Today, the population is estimated at just under 4,000 and locals enjoy its beautiful location on the Bering Sea.

If you visit in the summer, you can take part in activities like bird-watching, gold panning, and self-guided walking tours that take you past Nome’s historic buildings.

In the winter, chase the Northern Lights, take part in cross-country skiing, or visit in March to see the end of the famous Iditarod race that ends in Nome.

While you’re out and about on the trails, it isn’t unusual to see a reindeer or a moose!

Nome also offers great shopping if you’re looking for Native art.

History buffs will love the Carrie M. McLain Memorial Museum , which contains lots of information on the Gold Rush history as well as the history of indigenous people.

And of course, you can take your pictures with the world’s largest gold pan, because why not?

How to Get There: Nome is not connected to the Alaska Highway System, which means that the only easy way for visitors to arrive is by plane into Nome Airport via Alaska airlines.

Where to Stay: Pike Suite ( Click here to check out rooms and prices ).

Located in the south of Alaska, south of Anchorage, Seward is a popular tourist destination as it’s on the port list for many cruise lines.

It also has great road links to Anchorage and awesome dog sledding tours like this one .

For this reason, the summer season is much more active in Seward, but there are plenty of things to do year round.

Located on Resurrection Bay, Seward is a fantastic place to view marine wildlife.

From humpback whales to sea otters to harbor seals, there are so many gorgeous creatures to spot.

If you want to get active, try renting a bike or doing a dog sledding tour.

Fishing lovers will enjoy guided freshwater or saltwater trips by experienced skippers.

Staying on land?

The Alaska Sealife Aquarium is a public aquarium, perfect for families, and the Alaska Native Heritage Center is a fascinating culture center.

You’ll also find art galleries, coffee shops, family-owned restaurants and live music venues.

Don’t forget to check out Seward’s murals, done by local artists all over Seward to give it a colorful and friendly vibe.

How to Get There: Most visitors either come by cruise line, fly into Ted Stevens Airport in Anchorage and then drive down (2 to 4 hours depending on traffic), or you can take a train during the summer months.

Where to Stay: Summit View Lodge ( Click here to check out rooms and prices ).

5. Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve

When you consider a visit to the Gates of the Arctic National Park , you should know that this is truly untouched wilderness.

There are no roads, no trails, no service stations – nothing but millions of acres of preserved and unfiltered Alaskan land, shaped only by Mother Earth.

Only experienced backcountry survivalists should visit on their own. If that isn’t you, don’t worry.

There are plenty of guided tours that offer the chance to backpack, canoe, and hike your way through this national park with experienced guides who can show you the ropes when it comes to outdoor living.

You might spot a caribou, a grizzly bear, or other wildlife who call this area home, and you’ll definitely be able to enjoy the absolutely stunning views that include mountains, lakes, and forest.

The park is largely visited in the warmer months, as the freezing temperatures in the winter make it unhabitable for most.

The closest major area is Fairbanks, where many tours start, and from there you may hop on a smaller plane to one of the small settlements closer to the park.

This is Alaska the way it was intended to be explored. Leave no trace, and take nothing but photos.

How to Get There: Head to Fairbanks and take a guided tour, like these by Arctic Wild .

6. Denali National Park

Perhaps the most famous National Park in Alaska, Denali is visited by over 400,000 visitors each year.

There is one road through the park, with most of it being untouched and ready for exploration.

Keep your eyes peeled for moose, bears, hares, and other Alaskan wildlife.

This is one of the best tours of Denali .

There are a few popular ways to see Denali, one of which is a bus tour through the park, which are usually narrated and includes stops for lunch.

If you want to get up close to Denali, the actual mountain and summit of the park, there are airplane tours to give you a close-up even if you’re not a mountaineer.

Even in the winter months, while some of the road is closed to visitors, you can visit the first few miles and explore the area with snowshoeing or telemark skiing.

The park recommends two full days of exploration, which gives you time to take guided tours, go hiking and visit the visitor center.

How to Get There: Most visitors in the summer come by car, via the Alaska Railroad, or via a sightseeing bus tour from Anchorage or Fairbanks.

Where to Stay: Denali Park Hotel ( Click here to check out rooms and prices ).

While Juneau is Alaska’s capital, many are surprised to find that it’s not connected to the rest of Alaska by road (check out more Alaska fun facts like this in our epic list!).

The surrounding terrain is too rugged, which means that anyone or anything coming to or from Juneau goes by plane if you’re coming from the mainland.

It’s also a huge stop for cruise ships in the summer, providing a thriving summer economy.

Check out the Mendenhall Glacier , one of the most beautiful glacier experiences in the world which you can get close to by foot, kayak, or plane.

There’s also fantastic orca whale watching, as well as salmon fishing and a trip to Admiralty Island to see the bears and nesting bald eagles.

And of course, don’t miss the downtown streets of Juneau, where you’ll find the Alaska State Capitol, plenty of coffee shops, bars, restaurants, and historic shops on Franklin Street.

How to Get There: Fly into Juneau International Airport.

Where to Stay: Four Points by Sheraton ( Click here to check out rooms and prices ).

On the outer coast of Alaska’s Inside Passage is Sitka , a place many rom-com fans may have heard of as it was where the characters played by Ryan Reynolds and Sandra Bullock went to visit his parents!

For residents, though, Sitka is simply a place of natural wonder and beauty, essentially an island community because it can only be visited by land or sea.

In Sitka, you can do everything from fly fishing to ATV riding to traditional dancing to hiking to cultural visitors to the St. Michael’s Orthodox Cathedral .

Spend a day at Baranof Castle , or enjoy some golfing or yoga surrounded by stunning views.

In the summer months, Sitka is visited by cruise ships, while in the winter, it’s filled with people searching for the northern lights or going snowshoeing or backcountry skiing.

Sitka doesn’t experience the same intense light cycles as in Northern Alaska, which means the winter days aren’t quite as short and the summer days aren’t quite as long.

How to Get There: Take a cruise or fly into Sitka Rocky Gutierrez Airport.

Where to Stay: Sitka Hotel ( Click here to check out rooms and prices ).

9. Wrangell St-Elias National Park and Preserve

It’s probably no surprise that you can visit the largest national park in all of the United States when you visit Alaska.

With two roads leading into the park, multiple visitor’s center, and plenty of natural experiences, this is one of the best places to visit in Alaska if you want to check out volcanoes, glaciers, as well as wildlife spot to see if you can sneak a peek at the bison, Dall sheep, black and brown bears and mountain goats.

You can also take part in hiking, mountain biking, backpacking, camping, horseback riding, kayaking, and so much more.

Plan to visit during the summer months, when the park is accessible.

While the roads are open year-round, they are not maintained in the winter months and visitors from around the world are welcomed from around May to September.

How to Get There: Drive from nearby Chitina or take a guided tour.

Where to Stay: Kennicott Glacier Lodge ( Click here to check out rooms and prices ).

10. North Pole

Yes, you can visit the North Pole ..in Alaska!

Known for its year-round Christmas decorations, this small town near Fairbanks has adorable street names like Mistletoe Lane and plenty of candy cane striped street lights.

Visit Santa Claus House, a Santa Claus themed gift shop, as well as nearby shops Christmas in Ice and a reindeer experience at Antler Academy!

North Pole has an elementary school, a middle school, and a high school, as well as a library.

How to Get There: Drive from Fairbanks

Where to Stay: Hotel North Pole ( Click here to check out rooms and prices ).

11. Bering Land Bridge National Preserve

One of the most remote national parks, Bering Land Bridge National Preserve is the place to go in Alaska for anyone who wants to journey to the end of the Earth.

Quite literally, too, as this used to (10,000+ years ago) be part of the land bridge that connected Asia to America!

It’s located on the Seward Peninsula in Northwest Alaska and here you’ll find the opportunity to get lost (not for real) in a world of caribou, forest, hot springs, and more.

Visitors to this national park love the Serpentine Hot Springs, which are hot springs that you can use, like a natural hot tub!

There’s also plenty of wildlife spotting.

There are no roads in the park, so access is by small plane or snowmobile.

How to Get There: Take a tour with Arctic Wild

Where to Stay: Stay in Kotzebue overnight before your tour.

12. Alaska Highway

At over 1300 miles across Alaska, the Alaska Highway is one of the best scenic drives in the entire world.

You could plan a whole trip just cruising this highway and stopping off at points along the way, as it goes all the way from near Fairbanks to British Columbia, Canada.

Established in World War II, millions of visitors have rented a car and taken off on an adventure over the years and it’s definitely something to add to your bucketlist.

Because of the remoteness of Alaska, you do want to make sure that you’re prepared for the weather, know where your next stop is, and aren’t traveling without proper equipment through the more dangerous winter months.

13. College

Unsurprisingly, “ College, Alaska ” is just outside of downtown Fairbanks and is home to the University of Alaska Fairbanks.

With surrounding trails, public modern art on campus, and an ice skating rink, it’s worth stopping by to have a look.

Many people are fascinated by the campuses of universities across the country, so don’t miss the chance to see an Alaskan one on your visit to Fairbanks!

How to Get There: Drive or fly into the Fairbanks International Airport.

Where to Stay: Downtown Fairbanks

14. Yukon-Charley Rivers National Preserve

It’s time to embrace the beauty of the Yukon and Charley rivers at this Alaska national park.

One of the most popular activities here are, of course, floating down the Yukon river or Charley river.

You can experience canoeing, whitewater rafting, hiking, wildlife watching, and plenty of outdoor adventure.

With public cabins that can be used for free along the river banks (first-come, first served), many like to float down the river and stop off each night in a cabin.

Of course, remember that the climate in Alaska means that May through September are the ideal months for experiencing this part of the state, and always remember to come prepared with all of the gear recommended by Alaska’s National Park service, including bearproof belongings!

How to Get There: Drive to one of the towns along the river, like Circle or Beaver.

Where to Stay: Beaver Lodge Tour and B&B.

15. Chugach National Forest

Just one hour from Anchorage, the Chugach National Forest is a treasure trove of wetlands, rain forest, coastal woods and more.

Unlike some of the more remote national parks and forest in Alaska, Chugach is easily accessible without any backcountry knowledge, and has two visitor centers, 500 miles of maintained trails, cabins, and campgrounds.

You can do everything from hiking to guided glacier walking to fishing to kayaking.

You won’t see it all, of course, as the entire area is larger than the state of New Hampshire!

First time visitors are recommended to spend about 2 days exploring the forest to get a taste for the natural wonder and beauty.

How to Get There: Drive from Anchorage (about 1 hour).

Where to Stay: The Spencer Glacier Public Use Cabin .

16. Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve

Most visitors visit Glacier Bay National Park via cruise ships, as this is the easiest way to see the beauty of this magical place.

Not only is it a preserved area and hub for scientific research on our planet, but the actual beauty of the sparkling glaciers, whales jumping in the water, and endless blue is out of this world.

While the cruise ships do not dock in Glacier Bay, they spend time sailing through it and getting as close as possible without spoiling the environment.

You’ll hear the cracking and shifting of the glaciers, try and spot otters on the shore, and so much more.

You can also go on a backcountry sea kayaking experience.

For the native people of the area, the Tlingit, stories about Glacier Bay are part of their history and culture, and it’s not hard to see why.

How to Get There: Taking a cruise that sails through here is the easiest way.

17. Iditarod

Today, a ghost town, Iditarod is in fact the town that shares a name with the Iditarod dog race.

Back in the day, during the gold boom, it was a thriving community with shops, a few hotels, and a liveliness to it.

Now, it is run down buildings frozen in time, but every year it is a stop used as a checkpoint for the Iditarod race!

You can still see some of the historic site, no longer in use, and it’s a fascinating piece of Alaskan history that still has a connection to the race.

18. Lake Clark National Park and Preserve

About 100 miles southwest of Anchorage is Lake Clark National Park , a rugged and stunning place to go in Alaska that welcomes visitors to explore the lake and surrounding vistas.

One of the most notable things you’ll find here is lots and lots of bears!

This is their natural habitat, and you may see them eating, foraging, pawing the water, and more.

The lake itself is milky blue, sparkling in the sun in the summer, and the backcountry hiking is some of the best in Alaska.

Salmon return from the sea to Lake Clark to spawn every year, and there are some magnificent views of the teeming salmon during the season.

How to Get There: You have to arrive by seaplane or boat, usually on a guided tour as there are no roads to the park.

Where to Stay: Check out Alaska’s Back Country Inn in Port Alsworth, the most built up area in the park.

19. Wasilla

The sixth-largest city in Alaska, Wasilla has big city amenities like grocery stores, clothing stores, and bars and restaurants, but it is still very much a small town feel.

Experience the city where the Iditarod is headquartered, spend some time at the Wasilla Museum & Visitor Center, enjoy the vintage planes and trains at the Museum of Alaska Transportation, or explore the city parks like Lake Lucile Park with gorgeous views of the mountains beyond.

Many people use Wasilla as a gateway to further adventures in Alaska’s wilderness, including lakes and rivers.

If you’re really into the history of the Iditarod, you can actually visit the Headquarters and see the museum of this famous and race and how it all got started.

If you want to experience the local flavor (literally), try out the family-owned restaurants and coffee shops and dig into the cultural scene of the city’s residents.

How to Get There: Fly into Wasilla Airport or drive

Where to Stay: Alaska’s Lake Lucille Bed and Breakfast ( Check here to see rooms and prices ).

20. Yukon Delta

The Yukon Delta is one of the largest river deltas in the world, and unlike other parts of Alaska with towering mountains, it is mostly comprised of tundra and flat stretches intermixed with streams, rivers, and ponds.

Here, you’ll find water birds, plenty of brown and black bears, and caribou, moose, and wolves.

There’s not just one place to visit here, as the expansive nature of the delta means that people are scattered everywhere.

And that’s right, it’s important to mention that this is an inhabited delta!

About 85% of the 85,000 residents are native Alaskan people, and there are about 35 villages.

Come here to go rafting, take wildlife photos, hiking, or kayaking.

And if you’re wondering where the most populated area is, it’s in Bethel, which has gift shops, a movie theater, banks, and other amenities that you might want to be around and use as a base for exploration.

How to Get There: Fly into Bethel airport

Where to Stay: Long House Hotel

21. Katmai National Park and Preserve

Did you know that Alaska has volcanoes?

One of them is known as Novarupta and erupted in 1912, creating the landscape that is now known as Katmai National Park.

It’s also one of the most inhabited areas of the world by…brown bears!

Over 2,000 of them live here, and there are dedicated bear watching tours you can go on that depart from neighboring towns and cities.

Katmai itself isn’t accessible by road, and visitors need to come by boat or float plane.

One of the most popular places to watch bears here is known as Brooks camp, where you can see the bears pawing at the salmon they’re planning on eating as a snack.

A viewing platform lets you get an up close, safe, view of the activities.

There are over 4 million acres in the park, and you can camp in the backcountry, kayak in the rivers, or hike through the more remote areas on a guided ranger tour.

How to Get There: Floatplane or boat

22. Meadow Lakes

Meadow Lakes has made the list if you’re looking for somewhere to go in Alaska to give you an idea of what local life is like.

About an hour drive from Anchorage, this is a town of about 7,000 that is surrounded by dirt roads, gorgeous tree-lined pathways, and of course the fresh Alaskan air.

The main store in town, Three Bears Alaska, sells food and drinks, and there are a few restaurants and other shopping options around, as well as a Baptist Church.

You won’t necessarily want to stay in Meadow Lakes, but having a meal here to explore and meet some local residents is a great idea if you’re near Wasilla.

23. Kobuk Valley National Park

From thousands of caribou to unexpected sand dunes, Kobuk Valley National Park is one of the best wild national parks for visitors to explore who just want to get away from it all.

The sand dunes were a product of the Ice Age, and a natural process that meant melting glaciers ground the rocks around them into sand.

They are stunning and towering, making it look more like an alien landscape than something in the Arctic.

Then you’ve got the mass caribou migration, a true sight to behold twice a year.

The rest of the time, you can spot the caribou footprints left from their stampedes.

In the winter, come to chase the Northern Lights to take advantage of the location in the Arctic circle. In the summer, hiking and camping are popular options.

Keep in mind that that is truly the backcountry.

There are no roads that lead into the national park, and it must be accessed by small planes from surrounding areas.

You should be versed in outdoor survival techniques and really be ready to become one with nature, respecting what you find and leaving nothing behind.

How to Get There: Plane from Bettles or Kotzebue.

24. Kodiak Island

Sharing a name with the bear of the same name, Kodiak Island is most definitely a picture-perfect adventure.

Here, you’ll find a small town fishing community that has some gorgeous scenery, a huge bear population in the wildlife preserves, amazing fishing opportunities and the chance to really explore what is known as the “Emerald Isle.”

Unlike some other northern Alaskan places, the weather here is much more mild in both the winter and summer, and summers are not overcrowded with tourists.

You’ve got all of the amenities you need including grocery stores, but unparalleled access to nature on your doorstep.

The main village is Kodiak itself, but there are a couple of others dotted around the island that are inhabited.

How to get here: By boat or plane from the Alaskan mainland

Where to Stay: Kodiak Russian River Lodge ( check here for prices and rooms ).

25. Steese National Conservation Area

Just north of Fairbanks, about a half day drive, is the Steese National Conservation Area .

The area itself has a small town nearby, Circle, but is mostly remote and for visitors who are self-sufficient and want to explore without running into other people.

Hiking, camping, backpacking, fishing, and picking berries are all allowed within the area, and the northern location means that especially in the summer, visitors can experience the thrill of the “midnight sun” which means daylight hours go on, and on, and on.

The Pinnell Mountain Trail is a primitive trail that has been maintained, offering stunning views of the white Mountains and the Alaska Range.

This trail is in the north of the conservation area, which is more suitable to hikers and backpackers.

The southern part of the conservation area is best for those accessing via watercraft from the Birch Creek River.

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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.

1. Denali National Park

2. tracy arm fjord, 3. kenai fjords national park, 4. anchorage, 5. alaska highway, 6. talkeetna, 7. university of alaska museum of the north, 8. inside passage, 9. alaska railroad, 10. dalton highway, 11. alaska native heritage center, 12. mendenhall glacier, 13. wrangell-st. elias national park & preserve, 14. iditarod national historic trail, 15. brooks falls, katmai national park, 16. seward, alaska, 17. totem bight state historic park, 18. klondike gold rush national historical park, 19. alaska rainforest sanctuary, ketchikan, best time to visit alaska.

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.

More on Alaska

Alaska Bucket List: 50 Best Things to Do & See

Are you looking for the best things to add to your Alaska bucket list? Look no further, because I have got you covered. In this list, I am sharing all the spots not to miss!

With massive glaciers, vast mountain ranges, crystal-clear lakes, and diverse flora and fauna, the state provides the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. With so much to see and do, it can be tough to know where to start. Here are some of the best places to visit in Alaska.

The state’s remote capital, Juneau, will make you feel the authentic Alaskan experience with its mountainous and glacier-studded terrain (accessible only by boat or plane). Denali National Park and Glacier Bay National Park are also fantastic options, the former being home to North America’s tallest peak (Denali/Mt. McKinley) and the latter boasting massive glaciers. All three provide their own unique experiences, like dog sledding, whitewater rafting, and whale watching (to name a few).

A List of the Best Places to Visit and Things to Do in Alaska

1. visit the smallest national forest (adak).

Near the furthest tip of the Aleutian Island chain is Alaska’s tiniest ‘national forest’, Adak National Forest . It is so small that the signage says it all: “You are now entering and leaving the Adak National Forest.”

During WWII, a (Christmas) tree planting program was initiated between 1943 to 1945 to boost the troops’ morale on the site. Due to the harsh weather conditions, however, the program failed, and the signage was put up as a joke. Miraculously, around 33 pine trees survived to this day, clumped together like a large bush due to the climate.

Although it is not officially recognized as a national forest, it is a unique sight in Alaska definitely worth visiting. The local Aleuts decorate the whole forest each Christmas as a nod to its origins.

2. Visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center (Anchorage)

Opened in 1999, the Alaska Native Heritage Center is a cultural institution dedicated to preserving and strengthening the cultural heritage of Alaska’s native groups. It is located a couple of miles northeast of Anchorage.

The Heritage Center houses several exhibits on the history, art, and traditions of the native groups of Alaska. The center also hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including dances, concerts, and workshops.

3. See the Burial Spirit Houses (Anchorage)

The native village of Eklutna in Anchorage is home to the colorful spirit houses, a combination of Russian Orthodox and Native Alaskan Athabascan tradition. It is located in the graveyard outside the St. Nicholas Orthodox Church.

These tiny houses are painted by families in different colors and were said to provide a temporary dwelling place for the souls during the 40 days they are believed to linger in the world. A wooden three-bar Russian Orthodox cross is also placed in most of the spirit houses.

4. Hike Chugach State Park (Anchorage)

Chugach State Park is one of the best places to go hiking in Anchorage. The park has a variety of trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs. And with nearly 500,000 acres of land, there’s plenty of room to explore. 

Here are some of the best hikes in Chugach State Park:

• Eagle and Symphony Lakes Trail: This moderate hike offers stunning views of both Eagle and Symphony Lakes. The trail is about 12 miles long and should take around 4 to 5 hours to complete.
• Powerline Pass Trail: This challenging trail is only for experienced hikers. It runs along a powerline, so there are no views. However, it’s a great workout and the perfect way to get away from the crowds. The trail is about 11 miles long and can take up to 6 hours to finish.
• Bird Ridge Trail: Bird Ridge is one of the most popular trails in Chugach State Park. It’s known for its incredible views of Turnagain Arm and the Chugach Mountains. The trail is about 5 miles long and takes around 4 hours to complete.

5. Take in the Street Art (Anchorage)

You might not expect to find much street art in Anchorage, Alaska, but if you take a walk around downtown, you’ll be proven otherwise. The city is actually full of colorful murals, graffiti, and sculptures, all of which are made by local artists and depict the city’s history and culture. How many of them will you find?

6. See the World’s Largest Chocolate Waterfall (Anchorage)

Yes, you’ve read that right. Seemingly coming straight out of a sweet tooth’s dream, the Alaska Wild Berry Products factory in Anchorage is home to the world’s largest chocolate waterfall.

Made in 1994, this 20-foot waterfall churns out 3000 pounds of real chocolate cascading down authentic copper candy kettles and settling in a swirling chocolate pool at the bottom. As tempting as it may seem, however, you aren’t allowed to eat/drink from it. Fortunately, you can get yourself some delicious chocolate at the nearby candy counter. You can also watch the staff making delectable goodies in action by visiting one of their four kitchens.

9. See the Barrow Whale Bone Arch (Utqiagvik)

The Barrow Whale Bone Arch is a unique arch made from the jawbone of a bowhead whale in Utqiagvik (Barrow), Alaska. Believed to have been built during the late 19th century, it serves as a constant reminder of the town’s whaling history and tradition. As Utqiagvik is quite remote, you can only reach it by plane.

10. Check Out Igloo City (Cantwell)

Igloo City is one of the most popular attractions in Cantwell, Alaska, located along the George Parks Highway. Constructed during the 1970s by builder Leon Smith, it was supposed to be a four-story hotel shaped into a massive igloo. Unfortunately, the hotel was never fully finished and remains closed to this day. Still, this giant igloo has continued to fascinate and attract visitors worldwide.

11. Visit the Quirky Town of Chicken

Chicken is a small town 200 miles east of Fairbanks in Alaska best known for its gold mining history and is one of the last surviving gold rush towns. It was supposed to be called “Ptarmigan,” after the birds in the area of the same name. However, due to conflicts with the spelling, they finally agreed to name the town “Chicken” instead.

The town has an official population of 7, with the numbers going up to 100 or more during the summer due to miners and tourists. They also have four shops: a lively saloon, a general store, a cafe, and a liquor store. Due to the town’s remote location, there is no electricity and plumbing (the locals do have generators though). For answering nature’s call, they have a three-door outhouse named ‘Chicken Poop.’

12. Explore Kennicott Ghost Town (Chitina)

Kennicott Ghost Town is a fascinating place to explore. Once a thriving copper mining town, Kennicott was abandoned in 1938 when the last of the mines closed. The ghost town was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1986.

Today, only a handful of buildings remain, offering a glimpse into the town’s past. The most iconic structure is the large red mill building standing a couple of storeys above the Kennicot glacier. Visitors can also explore the remains of the different mines in the area, such as the Bonanza, Jumbo, and Erie mines (all strenuous hikes).

13. Cross the Kuskulana River Bridge (Chitina)

The Kuskulana River Bridge is a historic steel truss bridge above the Kuskulana River in Chitina, Alaska. The bridge was created in 1910, sitting 238 feet above a deep rocky gorge and spanning 525 feet (160 m) in length.

With the addition of guard rails and new wooden planks on the bridge, it may not be as thrilling to cross as back then. Still, it offers a picturesque view of the surrounding area and the river below.

14. Tour the Husky Homestead (Denali)

Husky Homestead is a tour operation located in Denali National Park. Visitors to Husky Homestead can tour the kennels, meet the dogs, and learn about their lives as working animals. The tour also includes a short sled ride, weather permitting. Husky Homestead is a great place to learn about life in the Arctic and to get up close and personal with some of its furry residents.

15. Spot Wildlife at Denali National Park (Denali)

Denali National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Alaska. Located in the heart of the Alaska Range, the national park is home to an abundance of wildlife, including bears, moose, caribou, and Dall sheep. The park also contains Denali (Mount McKinley), the tallest mountain in North America.

Visitors can explore the park by foot, bicycle, or car (albeit only a short portion during the summer, as there is only one road). There are many hiking trails and camping sites available, as well as a variety of ranger-led programs. Whether you’re looking for wildlife viewing opportunities or a chance to challenge yourself with some difficult hikes, Denali National Park has something to offer everyone.

16. See the Lady of the Lake (Eielson AFB)

While it might sound like a supernatural entity or Alaskan legend, the Lady of the Lake is actually the remains of a WWII B-29 Bomber plane on a lake inside the Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska. It once flew between Alaska and Japan, serving as a recon aircraft for finding evidence of Soviet nuclear testing.

Although no one knows exactly how the aircraft ended up in the lake, it was believed to have been put there for water rescue training. Visitors can enter the base by providing a Military ID or a Visitor’s Pass (which you can get at the Visitor Control Center).

17. Check Out Cars at Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum (Fairbanks)

The Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum in Fairbanks is a must-see especially for anyone who loves cars. The museum houses an impressive collection of over 95 automobiles from the early 1900s, including a Model T and a 1906 Cadillac Model K. Most of these are operable, so you’ll get to see the vehicles in action as well.

In addition to the cars on display, they also have a collection of vintage clothing worn by people back in the day. The Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum is a great way to spend an afternoon, and it’s sure to please any car enthusiast.

18. Visit Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve (Fairbanks)

Nestled deep in the heart of Alaska, the Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve is one of the most remote and untouched corners of the world. There are no roads or trails in the park, and visitors must travel by foot, canoe, or small plane. This wild setting provides an incredible opportunity to experience true wilderness and see firsthand the beauty of the natural world.

The park is home to an amazing array of wildlife, including grizzly bears, caribou, wolves, and wolverines. It is also a birder’s paradise, with nearly 150 species of birds having been observed in the park. For those looking for a true adventure, the Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve is an unforgettable destination.

19. Visit the Museum of the North (Fairbanks)

If you’re looking to learn more about Alaska’s culture and history, then a trip to the University of Alaska’s Museum of the North is a must. It boasts a whopping 2.5 million artifacts in its collection, organized into ten research disciplines like archaeology, fine arts, ethnology, and more.

Some of the museum’s highlights include the Rose Berry Alaska Art Gallery , which showcases native (and non-native) Alaskan art; The Place Where You Go To Listen , an audio-visual exhibit featuring the sounds and movement of the sun, moon, earthquakes, and auroras; and two auditorium shows during summer called Dynamic Aurora and Winter . They also have a Museum Store where they sell Alaska-made products such as art, books, and jewelry, perfect for finding your souvenir.

20. Tour the Running Reindeer Ranch (Fairbanks)

The Running Reindeer Ranch is a family-owned business located north of  Fairbanks, Alaska, providing visitors with an up-close and personal look at Alaskan reindeer for over 15 years. They offer a variety of interactive experiences that allow guests to get to know these amazing animals.

These include walking alongside reindeer through the surrounding birch forest, doing yoga with reindeer, enjoying the local music with reindeer, and even having a unique Alaska-style wedding with, you’ve guessed it, reindeer!

21. Soak In Natural Hot Springs At Chena Resort (Fairbanks)

Chena Hot Springs Resort is a world-famous hot springs destination located 61.3 miles northeast of Fairbanks. The resort features an open-air naturally-heated rock lake (adults only) and an indoor hot tub and pool, making it a popular spot for visitors to soak and relax in its mineral-rich waters. It is also one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights, which is always a plus.

In addition to the hot springs, the resort also offers cabins, RV sites, and a variety of other amenities like relaxing massages and delicious dining.

22. Chill-ax at The Aurora Ice Museum (Fairbanks)

Located at Chena Resort, the Aurora Ice Museum is home to a collection of intricate ice sculptures created from over 1,000 tons of ice and snow by husband-and-wife duo Steve and Heather Brice, who are both accomplished ice sculptors as well.

The ice sculptures range from giant chess sets to igloos to entire rooms built entirely out of ice and so much more. Even the ice bar (including the glasses and stuff) are all made of ice. Adding to the museum’s charm are the glimmering lights resembling the colors of the Aurora Borealis.

23. See the Northern Lights (Fairbanks)

The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, is one of the most beautiful natural light displays in the world, with different color shades dancing around the sky. While the aurora is technically present all year round, it can be seen clearly during the Aurora Season (late August to early April) when the skies are dark enough.

Some of the best spots in Fairbanks include the Chena Hot Springs, Cleary Summit, and Murphy Dome.

24. See the Animals at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (Girdwood)

The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (AWCC) is a non-profit animal sanctuary dedicated to the conservation, education, and care of Alaska’s wildlife. They primarily take in orphaned and injured animals, the majority of which call the center their permanent home due to lacking the necessary skills needed to survive in the wild.

With over 310 acres of land (110 acres of which are dedicated solely to wood bison), the center has plenty of space which allows the animals to live in large, natural environments. Some of the animals include lynx, brown bears, moose, wolves, and more.

25. Be in Awe of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve (Gustavus)

Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Alaska. The park is best known for its glaciers, which can be seen up close on a cruise (I visited while on a Holland America Alaskan cruise !)or from the air. The glaciers are a major draw for visitors, but the park also offers opportunities to see wildlife, explore inlets and coves, and experience the Alaskan wilderness.

The park is located a couple of miles west of Gustavus, Alaska, and covers an area of 3.3 million acres. It was established as a national monument in 1925 and was upgraded to a national park in 1980. Glacier Bay National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in glaciers or Alaska’s natural beauty.

26. Visit the World’s First Hammer Museum (Haines)

The city of Haines is home to the world’s first hammer museum, aptly called The Hammer Museum . Founded in 2002, they have a massive collection of hammers amounting to over 2000 and coming from different time periods and trades. They also have a giant hammer standing at around two stories tall just outside the museum!

27. See the Rescues at Kroschel Wildlife Center (Haines)

The Kroschel Wildlife C enter is a 60-acre wildlife refuge located 28 miles north of Haines, Alaska. They feature rescued animals from over 15 different Alaskan wildlife species, such as grizzlies, wolves, moose, snowy owls, and more.

Aside from the animals, they also have a 600-yard groomed trail where you can enjoy an easy hike while taking pictures of the scenery and animals. There’s also a gift shop where you can get some handmade Alaskan souvenirs.

P.S. Reservations are required before you can visit the center.

28. Drive One of the Famous Highways

Drive the Alaska Highway

The Alaska Highway is one of the most iconic roads in North America. Spanning almost 1,400 miles, it traverses some of the most rugged and beautiful terrains in the world. The highway was originally built during World War II as a way to connect Alaska to the continental United States.

Today, it is a popular route for road trippers and adventure seekers from all over the globe. While the journey can be challenging, it is also incredibly fulfilling. Those who make the journey are rewarded with stunning views, unique experiences, and a sense of accomplishment from conquering one of the most challenging roads on the planet.

Dalton Highway

The Dalton Highway is a 414-mile long road that runs through the heart of Alaska. It was originally built as a supply route for the Trans-Alaska Pipeline, but has been open to the public since 1994. Despite its remote location, the Dalton Highway has become a popular destination for adventure seekers worldwide. The road winds its way through stunning mountain scenery, offering opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching. In addition, the Dalton Highway is one of the only roads in North America that crosses the Arctic Circle.

For many visitors, driving the Dalton Highway is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Due to its extreme weather conditions and remote location, the highway can be a challenging drive. However, with a little preparation and caution, anyone can enjoy a safe and unforgettable journey on one of North America’s most scenic roads.

Denali Highway

The Denali Highway is one of Alaska’s most scenic drives. The road winds its way through the Alaskan mountains, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Wildlife is commonly seen along the highway, including caribou, moose, and bears. The drive can be challenging at times (watch out for potholes!), but it is well worth the effort. The Denali Highway is a great way to experience the beauty of Alaska.

Seward Scenic Highway

The Scenic Highway is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state. The winding road takes visitors through some of the most beautiful scenery in the area, including towering mountains, rushing waterfalls, and pristine lakes. Along the way, there are plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the view or explore the many hiking trails.

The Scenic Highway is also a popular destination for bicyclists and motorcyclists who enjoy the challenges of the winding road. Whether you’re looking for a day trip or a lengthy vacation, the Scenic Highway is sure to provide an enjoyable experience.

29. Leave a Dollar Bill at the Salty Dawg Saloon (Homer)

One of the most iconic landmarks on Homer Spit, the Salty Dawg Saloon is one of the first cabins ever built in the city of Homer. What makes the place a popular destination are the thousands upon thousands of dollar bills signed and tacked to its walls by visitors (which you should too!), a beloved tradition of the saloon.

Although there is no food, you can enjoy their wide selection of drinks and beers while socializing with the locals. They also have other items for sale, such as shirts, mugs, and more.

30. Ride the World’s Largest Zip Rider at Icy Strait Point (Hoonah)

Alaska is renowned for its natural beauty, and the ZipRider at Icy Strait Point is one of the best ways to experience it. With a height of over 1,300 feet and a length of 5,495 feet, soar through the air at speeds of up to 60 miles per hour as you descend down the mountain. Of course, being high up lets you have the chance to take in the surrounding landscape… while screaming at the top of your lungs!

31. Walk on Mendenhall Glacier (Juneau)

You probably already knew that you could see A LOT of glaciers in Alaska, but did you know that you could actually walk on one? Yep, that’s true! Enter Mendenhall Glacier , one of its most popular tourist destinations. Covering an area of 95.27 km² and reaching elevations of up to almost 5,200 feet, it has attracted thousands of people each year to see and walk on its surface.

The glacier can only be reached by helicopter or guided walk. Fortunately, you’ll find a few Alaskan cruise excursions that take you from downtown Juneau to Mendenhall Glacier via helicopter.

(We did the Holland America standard guided walk, where we flew around the glacier for a bird’s eye view before landing and walking on the glacier. I even drank glacier water, which is also an option! 

As the weather can be unpredictable, make sure to dress appropriately, and of course, always follow the park service’s rules and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

32. Go Whale Watch in Juneau

If you find yourself in Juneau during whale watching season, you’re in for a treat! Humpback whales can be seen in the waters around Alaska from May through September, and Juneau is one of the best spots to see them.

There are several tour companies that offer whale watching excursions, and most of them depart from the downtown area. While on tour, you’ll have a chance to see humpback whales up close as they feed, play, and breach. You might even see a whale tail or two!

So whether you’re a nature lover or just looking for a unique activity, be sure to add whale watching to your Juneau itinerary.

33. Take a Glacier Trail at Tongass National Forest (Juneau)

If you’re looking for a breathtaking outdoor adventure, check out the Glacier Trails at Tongass National Forest in Juneau! Some of these include East Glacier Trail, West Glacier Trail, Herbert Glacier Trail, and Laughton Glacier Trail.

The trails wind through some of the most beautiful scenery in Alaska, including glaciers, mountains, and forests. There are trails for all skill levels, so everyone can enjoy the views. In addition, the area is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, eagles, and salmon.

The Glacier Trails are a great way to experience the beauty of Alaska and get some fresh air at the same time. So whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking to take a leisurely walk, be sure to check out the Glacier Trails at Tongass National Forest in Juneau.

34. Explore the Mendenhall Ice Caves (Juneau)

The Mendenhall Ice Caves are one of the most enchanting tourist destinations near Juneau, Alaska. These are formed when the ice inside the glacier melts, transforming its insides into ever-changing ‘ice caves.’ And because the ice reflects blue light from the sun, it gives the caves an otherworldly feeling you should experience at least once.

As the caves are only formed because of the melting ice, their appearance and location inside the glacier can vary. Sometimes there are no caves at all. Be sure to check with the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center first if you’re planning to go inside the ice caves. You can also check out this FAQ for more information.

35. Explore Kenai Fjords National Park

Kenai Fjords National Park is one of Alaska’s most popular tourist destinations. And it’s no wonder, because the park offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are just a few of the best things to do at Kenai Fjords National Park:

• Take a cruise: A cruise is the perfect way to see the stunning scenery of Kenai Fjords National Park up close. There are a number of different cruise options available, so you can choose the one that best suits your interests and schedule.
• Hike: There are plenty of trails to explore in Kenai Fjords National Park, ranging from easy walking paths like the Exit Glacier Overlook Trail to challenging hikes such as the Harding Icefield Trail. No matter what your fitness level, you’ll be able to find a trail that’s right for you.
• Wildlife watching: Kenai Fjords is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including whales, dolphins, harbor seals, sea otters, and birds. A wildlife tour is the perfect way to see these fascinating animals in their natural habitat.
• Camping : The park has a 12-site, tent-only campground at Exit Glacier on a first-come, first-serve basis. Backcountry camping is also an option. As for RV camping, the closest ones would be around the city of Seward, which is east of the park.

36. Visit the Totem Bight State Historical Park (Ketchikan)

Totem Bight State Historical Park is a state park located ten miles northwest of Ketchikan, Alaska. The park features a replica of a traditional chieftain house and 14-15 totem poles, all of which were restored by skilled Tlingit and Haida carvers. Visitors can learn about the culture and history of the Native peoples of Alaska through totem poles, artwork, and exhibits. The park also offers opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing.

37. See Misty Fjords (Ketchikan)

The Misty Fjords is one of the must-see (and should-see) places in Alaska. It is part of the Tongass National Forest, comprising the largest wilderness area in the forest (2.3 million acres of the forest’s 16.7 million acres.) It is known for its breathtaking mountain views, deep fjords, rainforests, and wildlife. The Misty Fjords is also only accessible by boat or floatplane due to the area’s remoteness.

Visitors can take advantage of the many hiking and camping opportunities in the area, with plenty of activities to enjoy like kayaking/canoeing, flightseeing, wildlife viewing, and visiting attractions like the New Eddystone Rock (a 237-foot basalt pillar covered in trees.)

38. Go Bear Watching at Katmai National Park (King Salmon)

Located near King Salmon, Alaska, Katmai National Park is known for its abundance of different bear species and sockeye salmon (which the bears love to eat). Moose, caribou, wolves, sea otters, and the occasional humpback whale are just some of the other animals you will find in this bear country.

Visitors to the park can enjoy different activities, such as hiking, camping, fishing, and of course, bear-watching. One of the best spots for bear-watching is Brooks Camp, which has four viewing platforms. One other highlight of the park is a hike to the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, an ash-filled valley. 

39. See the Eldred Rock Lighthouse (Lynn Canal)

The Eldred Rock Lighthouse is the oldest and the last of ten other lighthouses built in Alaska still standing today. It sits upon Eldred Rock island in Lynn Canal, around 55 miles northwest of Juneau.

The lighthouse stands at 17 meters (56 feet), with an octagonal-shaped base, and once has a unique lens that allows flashing of red and white lights alternately. The lighthouse can only be viewed from cruise ships or ferries passing through the canal, as there are no tours or docks in the island.

40. Go to Santa Claus’s House in the North Pole

Would you believe me if I told you Santa Claus is real? And it’s not just him, by the way. Even his helpers and house in the North Pole pretty much exists!

That’s right, in the city of North Pole, Alaska, stands the Christmas store called Santa Claus House , where every day is Christmas Day. They have a wide assortment of products ranging from pastries to Christmas ornaments to color-changing mugs and so much more. And in keeping with the Christmas tradition, you can even write Santa a letter or meet his reindeers next door. Of course, you wouldn’t want to miss good ol’ Santa Claus and his wife for some picture taking!

41. Walk the Great Kobuk Sand Dunes at the National Park (Arctic Borough)

Sands and sweltering temperatures. These two are probably the last things that will cross your mind (or if it will even cross your mind) when in Alaska.

Enter the Great Kobuk Sand Dunes , one of Kobuk Valley National Park’s most iconic sights. These sand dunes reach up to 100 feet in height and cover an area of about 30 square miles. Due to the wind, the landscape’s appearance changes ever so often. Temperature-wise, it reaches 100 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer.

Of course, it is not all sand. The surrounding woods and tundra is home to different animals like bears, wolves, and moose. During spring and fall, you might even see a massive caribou migration.

42. Get Your Photo at the Arctic Circle Monument Sign

While it may not seem as much at first glance, you can think of the Arctic Circle Monument Sign as a ‘save point’ of sorts for travelers, serving as the entrance to the Arctic Circle and a rest stop before continuing your journey. Before you cross over to the Arctic side, be sure to commemorate it by having your photo taken!

As a bonus, the back of the sign features stickers placed by visitors indicating where they came from. Be sure to bring one of your own :)

43. See Hubbard Glacier (Wrangell-St. Elias National Park)

The Hubbard Glacier is one of the most active glaciers in the world, where it grows and advances at a rate of around 80 feet per year towards the Gulf of Alaska. With a total height of 600 feet (where 350 feet is above water) and stretching out 76 miles long and 7 miles wide, it is also one of the largest glaciers in North America.

One of the glacier’s most thrilling sights is its calving. Visitors can go on a  cruise that takes them close to the glacier’s face, where they can see icebergs calving off into the sea. Adding to the experience are the thunderous sounds it makes as the ice separates from the main glacier.

44. Cruise the Inside Passage

For many people, an Alaskan cruise is the trip of a lifetime. And one of the highlights of an Alaskan cruise is the Inside Passage (I did mine with Holland America !). The Inside Passage is a network of waterways that runs along the coast of Alaska, British Columbia, and Washington. It is home to some of the most spectacular scenery in the world, including towering mountains, pristine glaciers, and lively wildlife. Cruising through the Inside Passage is a truly unforgettable experience. And it’s no wonder so many people choose to take an Alaskan cruise each year!

45. See the Tracy Arm Fjord

There is no shortage of stunning places to visit in Alaska, and Tracy Arm Fjord is just one of them. The fjord is located about 45 miles south of Juneau and is known for its stunning scenery and abundant wildlife. Visitors to Tracy Arm Fjord can see glaciers (don’t miss the twin Sawyer Glaciers!), waterfalls, and mountains, as well as whales, seals, and other marine life. There are also numerous hiking and camping opportunities in the surrounding area.

46. Pan for Gold at Independence Mine (Palmer)

The Independence Mines was once the site of a gold mining operation in Palmer, Alaska during the 1950s. It became a part of the National Register of Historic Places in 1974, and a state historic park was established on the site in 1980.

Tourists can learn more about the mines’ history through the visitor center and their interactive exhibits. You will also find restored buildings around the mining complex, which include a timber shed, warehouse, and mess halls. As the place is a gold mine, visitors can also experience panning for gold from a stream below the mines. And did I mention you can also take it home with you?

47. Take a Farm Tour at Musk Ox Farm (Palmer)

Founded in 1954, Musk Ox Farm is a unique non-profit organization dedicated to the domestication of the musk ox, a mammal that has existed since the Ice Age (how cool is that?!). This 75-acre farm is located in the Matanuska Valley just north of Palmer, Alaska.

The 45-minute walking tour will take you around the farm, where you’ll get up close and personal with these friendly oxen. They also have a lovely gift shop where they sell products made from musk ox wool called qiviut.

48. See the Salmon Run at Lake Clark National Park (Port Alsworth)

Lake Clark National Park in Port Alsworth is one of the best salmon fishing spots in the state. The park offers a variety of salmon fishing opportunities, especially during salmon runs (around May to September), where the fish come in droves to spawn. They can be found in both the Kenai and Copper Rivers, and Lake Clark is home to several species of salmon, including sockeye, pink, and chinook salmon.

In addition to salmon fishing, the park also offers opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.

49. Take a Train Trough the Alaskan Wilderness

McKinley Explorer

The McKinley Explorer is an Alaska Railroad train that offers daily service between Denali and Anchorage. The train’s upper level features comfortable seating, large windows, and plenty of legroom, making it a great way to relax and take in the stunning scenery of Alaska.

In addition to gorgeous views of mountains, forests, and wildlife, the McKinley Explorer also offers an onboard dining car on the lower level, where passengers can enjoy Alaska-inspired cuisine while traveling.

Alaska Railroad

The Alaska Railroad is a Class II railroad that runs from Seward to Fairbanks, traversing some of the most scenic and remote territories in the United States. It is owned by the state of Alaska and operated by a non-profit corporation.

The railroad’s main line is over 470 miles long, making it one of the longest railroads in North America. Several branch lines also exist, including one at the city of Whittier.

There are many different ways to experience the Alaska Railroad, from short scenic rides to multi-day excursions. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or just a way to relax and take in the scenery, the Alaska Railroad has something to offer everyone.

50. Visit the Alaska SeaLife Center (Seward)

The Alaska SeaLife Center is a world-class marine research facility and aquarium in Seward, Alaska. Visitors can learn about the center’s research programs, see diverse marine life up close, and join in on educational programs. Different public exhibits such as touch tanks, pools, and aviaries also exist within the center.

One of the center’s key roles is the rehabilitation of sick and injured marine animals. Depending on the circumstance, the marine animals are returned to their natural habitat once they’ve been nursed back to full health.

With its commitment to scientific research and public education, the Alaska SeaLife Center provides an inspiring and informative experience for all who visit.

51. Take the Totem Pole Trail at Sitka National Historic Park

Totem Pole Trail in Sitka National Historical Park is probably one of the most unique trails one can experience in Alaska. The trail winds through a dense forest of spruce and hemlock, and offers stunning views of the ocean and nearby mountains.

It is also home to a variety of wildlife, including otters, eagles, and salmon. Totem poles line the trail, providing visitors with a glimpse into the rich culture of the Tlingit and Haida people.

52. Visit the Most Popular Park in Alaska: Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park (Skagway)

Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park commemorates the stampede to the Klondike gold fields and the achievements of those who succeeded in reaching the gold fields. It consists of four units: the Skagway Historic District, Chilkoot Trail/Dyea Townsite, White Pass Trail, and Seattle Unit (which is in Seattle). Each unit preserves and interprets different aspects of the story of the Klondike Gold Rush.

53. Get a Drink at the Red Onion Saloon (Skagway)

The Red Onion Saloon is a popular bar and restaurant in Skagway, Alaska. The Saloon is located in an old mining town and is known for its historical significance. The bar was originally established in 1897 and was a popular hangout for miners during the Klondike Gold Rush. Today, the Saloon is still a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

The bar features a wide selection of beer, wine, and cocktails, as well as a menu of American comfort food. The Saloon also has a stage for live music and events, making it a great place to enjoy a night out. Whether you’re looking for a place to have a drink or to experience Skagway’s rich history, the Red Onion Saloon is definitely worth a visit.

54. See the Tiny Church of Soldotna

As the name implies, the Tiny Church of Soldotna is a church located in the small village of Soldotna, Alaska. Beside it is a larger domed church, both of them being owned and managed by the Trinity Christian Center.

What’s peculiar about the church (aside from its size) is that it is left open throughout the day. The idea behind it is that it allows anyone a quiet and private spot for prayer/access to God, whatever time of day they might need it. Inside the tiny church are three pews, songbooks, and Bibles.

55. See Proenneke’s Cabin (Sterling)

Proenneke’s Cabin is a historic site in Sterling, Alaska, built by hand by Dick Proenneke, a man of many trades who lived alone in the cabin for nearly 30 years. Construction began in 1968 and it took Proenneke around two years to complete. It features a log cabin with a beach stone fireplace, a raised storage shed, and a woodshed that doubles as an outhouse.

Today, the cabin is a popular tourist destination and an inspiring reminder of Proenneke’s incredible self-sufficiency. Visitors can explore the area around the cabin at any time, however entering it is only allowed during the summer months.

56. Get a Peek at the Dr. Seuss House (Talkeetna)

If you ever catch a glimpse of this quirky house in the woods outside Talkeetna, Alaska, you’ll agree that it looks like something out of a Dr. Seuss book.

Officially called the Goose Creek Tower, this 14-17 story house was originally planned to be a two-story log cabin. That is until owner Phillip Weidner decided to add more and more floors throughout the years (and still ongoing!.)

As the house is on a private, heavily-monitored property, seeing it up close is out of the picture (let alone its exact location). Luckily, its 185 feet frame stands out from the surrounding trees, making it easier to spot during a flightseeing trip in Talkeetna. It is also possible to see from Parks Highway or while riding through the Alaskan Railroad.

57. Visit the Quirky Mukluk Land (Tok)

Located 3 miles west of Tok, Alaska, Mukluk Land is a theme park built by husband and wife George and Beth Jacobs. Throughout the years, they have collected lots of Alaskan memorabilia, from busted machinery to doll collections to mini-golf and so much more. They also own the world’s largest mukluk (reindeer/sealskin soft boots). Whether you’re a kid or a kid at heart, Mukluk Land will surely be an unforgettable Alaskan experience.

58. Witness the Alaska Bore Tide 

If you love surfing, this one’s for you! We know that Alaska is a hotbed for new adventures and experiences, and it just so happens that it is also one of the few places on Earth to see (or even surf) a tidal phenomenon called bore tides.

Simply put, bore tides are typically formed following a low tide when strong waves from the ocean’s rising water push inland against a river or a long, narrow inlet. One of the best spots to see this in action is Cook Inlet’s Turnagain Arm in Anchorage.

59. Go Through the Longest Highway Tunnel in North America – Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel

The Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel is the longest highway tunnel in North America, stretching up to 2.5 miles in length and connecting the cities of Porter and Whittier. It is built beneath Maynard Mountain and shared by cars and trains coming from both directions.

As the tunnel is one-lane only, an advanced computer system handles the traffic’s flow at regular intervals (usually switching directions every 30 mins). Vehicle turnout areas are also present along the tunnel, complete with safehouses, PA systems, and telephones, in case of emergencies.

60. See the Rock Carvings at Petroglyph Beach (Wrangall)

Petroglyph Beach is a beach near Wrangell, Alaska, famous for its rock carvings that date back 8000 years ago and are only fully revealed during low tide.

The petroglyphs were believed to be made by the Tlingit people who once called the area their home. The etchings range from what seems to be animals to geometric patterns to faces and more. Although the history and meaning behind the petroglyphs remain a mystery, it is still one of the most fascinating sights to see in Alaska.

And that’s a wrap on our Alaska Bucket List! We hope you’ve enjoyed reading about all the best places to visit and things to do in Alaska. We’ll definitely be back to check off a few more items on the list, and we hope you’ll join us! If you have any suggestions for other must-do Alaska experiences, be sure to let us know in the comments. In the meantime, happy travels!

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1 thought on “Alaska Bucket List: 50 Best Things to Do & See”

Wow there is so much to see and do in Alaska!! It has been on my list to visit for a while but as it is quite difficult to access I haven’t made it yet. I think I would probably spend most of my time at the National Parks, I would love to go to Glacier Bay, Gates of the Arctic and Denali. I would also like to experience hiking on Mendenhall Glacier and I would have to do the whale watching too. I think I need months to see everything I want to see!!

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Alaska Destinations

So much to see! You can't go wrong starting with a visit to Kenai Fjords and Denali National Park.

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• Denali National Park
• Seward & Kenai Fjords
• Off the Beaten Path

Trip Finder

Let Alaska Tour & Travel be your one-stop source for Alaska travel information and reservations. We specialize in Alaska's top travel destinations such as Seward , Anchorage , Talkeetna , and Fairbanks , as well as Alaska's most popular national parks including Denali National Park and Kenai Fjords National Park . These destinations are all along Alaska's "railbelt," so travel is easy: Go in comfort and style aboard a luxury dome train , deluxe motorcoach , or even drive yourself in a premium 4x4 car or van rental .

Be sure to check out our trip finder , sample itineraries , and best places to visit in Alaska page for great trip ideas, and don't hesitate to contact us if we can be of any assistance.

If you like to take the road less traveled, consider one of our Off the Beaten Path destinations. Travel above the Arctic Circle and experience 24 hours of daylight, stay at a true wilderness lodge , or leave the crowds behind and explore Wrangell-St. Elias National Park . Try one of our self-drive tour packages and drive to the "end of the road" in Homer , or explore other unique Alaska small towns such as Valdez and Girdwood .

Our staff of lifelong Alaskans will help you set up the perfect Alaska vacation tailored to your specific requirements. You can choose from individual lodging , activity , and transportation choices, or select one of our many pre-built Alaska vacation packages .

Best Places to Visit in Alaska

The list is long, but every place belongs on it. Read on for our top recommendations for where to go while traveling in Alaska. Learn More >

Off the Beaten Path Alaska

Curious about Alaska beyond Seward, Anchorage, and Denali? Explore destinations farther afield, from the coast to distant national parks to tiny outposts above the Arctic Circle. Learn More >

Alaska National Parks

Experience the full range of Alaska's natural beauty in national parks like Denali, Kenai Fjords, and Wrangell-St. Elias. Learn More >

See the state's many national parks, tours, attractions, and places of note on this interactive Alaska map. Learn More >

Alaska Regions

Whether looking at it on a map or seeing it in person, Alaska's sheer size stands out. Make sense of the state with a breakdown of its five distinctive regions. Learn More >

Alaska Ports of Call

Visit a glacier in Juneau, ride a narrow-gauge train in Skagway, go fishing in Ketchikan, and find plenty more fun among Alaska's Inside Passage ports of call. Learn More >

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Alaska , Inspiration

24 amazing places to visit in alaska in 2024 (+ map).

Are you looking for the best places to visit in Alaska ? This is a guide to the most beautiful destinations in Alaska, from cities to National Parks.

Alaska is by far the largest state in America and home to some of the most immaculate wilderness in the world. It is teeming with wildlife, forests, glaciers, fjords, and giant mountains that eventually give way to the Arctic tundra.

The state is split into four regions, the Inside Passage , South Central & Interior , Southwest , and Arctic . Given the vastness of the country, visiting more than one region can be challenging, unless you have several weeks to spend traveling through the state.

Arctic Travel Tips uses affiliate links, meaning that if you purchase through my links, I may earn an affiliate commission at no extra charge to you.

Getting around Alaska

Given its size and challenging terrain, travelling around Alaska can be a little challenging, and different methods of transport may be needed.

There is a road network that covers large parts of Alaska. For example, there is a road network connecting Anchorage in the south with Prudhoe Bay in the North.

This mammoth drive covers 1,374 km (854 mi) in distance and will take you through some of the best scenery Alaska has. However, other areas in the state along the coast are not accessible by car.

There is a small train network that connects Fairbanks to Seward . The 775.7 km (482 mi) rail network passes through amazing places such as Denali , Anchorage , and Portage .

The train is a great way to travel through this small area of Alaska as you can sit and enjoy the scenery as it passes by. It operates year-round. However, during the winter the schedule is vastly reduced compared to the summer.

There are plenty of Alaskan cruises that cruise up and down the coast of the state. These cruises provide a great way to visit.

Alternatively, you can use scheduled ferries to navigate between more remote towns along the coast.

Air travel is the most convenient way to travel between places in Alaska. Nearly all towns have an airstrip that will be served by scheduled aircraft or chartered planes.

When planning your trip to Alaska, always check flight options as flying is the quickest and most convenient way to cover the state.

In this guide, I have listed 24 of the best places to visit in Alaska. If you feel I have missed a place, please feel free to comment below with your suggestion!

Best places to visit in Alaska

1. anchorage.

Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska and best known as the gateway to an Alaskan adventure. The city is home to impressive Alaskan wildlife, glaciers, hikes, and traditional local cultures.

When you’re not out exploring the picturesque Alaskan landscape that surrounds the city, you’ll find yourself getting to know Anchorage. In summer, you can travel along the 32 km (19 mi) Moose Loop by bike or on foot in search of moose and bears.

Learn more about Alaskan plant life at the Alaska Botanical Garden , I always love to visit botanical gardens when I travel. For a more unique experience, arrive in Anchorage in time to watch the annual Slam’n Salm’n Derby .

You can also pan for gold at Indian Valley Mine National Historic Site and cruise along Portage Lake to get up close and personal with the region’s glaciers.

In winter, you can escape the cold and learn more about the traditional Dena’ina Athabascan people by visiting local attractions like the Alaska Native Heritage Center , where you’ll find examples of traditional crafts, dances, and dwellings.

2. Denali National Park and Preserve

Offering more than 6 million acres of Alaskan wilderness to explore, your days in Denali National Park will be filled with hiking and wildlife watching.

In winter, explore the snowy peaks and tundra by ski, bike, and snowshoe. Visit the Murie Science and Learning Center to borrow snow equipment and learn more about the park through films and small displays.

The Roadside Bike Trail is a popular place to ski and ride bikes in winter, while Denali Sled Dog Kennels offers one-of-a-kind dog sledding excursions in the park. You might spot caribou , black bears , and wolves , so keep your eyes peeled.

In summer, hiking is more popular, with lots of travelers hiking towards Denali, which at 6,190m (20,310 ft) is the tallest peak in North America .

Bus tours are also popular as they offer an easy way to explore without having to hike. If you want to stay in Denali overnight, there are various campgrounds found throughout the reserve.

3. Kaktovik

Kaktovik is a small village in North Slope Borough with a population of approximately 300 people. Due to the city’s isolation, it is still well-known for its Inupiat traditions. However, tourists travel to the city in search of polar bears .

The best time to spot polar bears near Kaktovik is between August and October when they can be seen along the coast of Barter Island. Kaktovik Tours runs fascinating boat tours that allow tourists to see polar bears in their natural habitat.

If you’re lucky, you might get to see polar bear cubs playing!

In Kaktovik, almost 7 out of 8 residents are partly or wholly Alaska Native Inupiat, so spend time getting to know them.

4. Fairbanks

If you love all things history, you need to visit Fairbanks. Here, you’ll find a wide range of attractions that explain Alaskan traditions and historical events.

It doesn’t matter if you visit in winter or summer- you’ll spend most of your time in the museums and heritage centers. The Museum of the North houses exhibits that date back to the Arctic dinosaurs, while the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum displays luxury cars from the Gold Rush period.

If like me, you’d prefer to spend more time outside, Pioneer Park is a great place to visit. Here, you’ll find countless walking trails and historical landmarks like the S.S. Nenana Sternwheeler Riverboat.

In summer, the Chena Riverwalk is a must if you seek a scenic walk by the river. After a busy day, settle down by the river at The Pump House Restaurant , where you can enjoy traditional Alaskan dishes using locally sourced ingredients.

5. Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve

If you’ve always dreamed of exploring Alaska’s epic landscapes, Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve is perfect. This park is part of a 25-million-acre World Heritage Site that features rugged snow-capped mountains, towering glaciers, wild coastlines, and deep fjords.

Activities in the national park are as diverse as the park itself. In winter, you can explore the park on skis and you have an increased chance of spotting Sitka black-tailed deer and river otters .

In summer, the opportunities are endless when it comes to hiking and boating. In Bartlett Cove, you’ll find several hiking trails that allow you to explore the Alaskan wilderness. The Forest Loop Trail is one of my favorites!

If you stay at Glacier Bay Lodge , you can head out on a boat trip that visits the Margerie and Grand Pacific Glaciers and searches for puffins , eagles , and polar bears .

6. Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a gorgeous Alaskan city that sits over the water facing the Inside Passage. The city is home to a variety of historic attractions, while its surroundings consist of fjords, glaciers, and waterfalls.

One of the most unique attractions is the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show . The show takes place several times a day and showcases the impressive talents of local lumberjacks.

Take the time to visit the Totem Heritage Center , where you can learn about the history of Totem Poles and Indigenous art. The center has a large collection of Totem Poles that were provided by the Haida, Tlingit and Tsimshian peoples.

Outdoor enthusiasts will want to head out in search of the best views, wildlife, and hiking trails. In summer, I recommend hiking the Deer Mountain Trail. This 7.7 km (4.8 mi) trail leads through the countryside, offering impressive views of the city from above.

Alternatively, you could head out on a Misty Fjords boat expedition to visit the nearby glaciers and waterfalls. Keep your eyes peeled for eagles, moose, and wolverines!

7. Kenai Fjords National Park

Kenai Fjords National Park is most famous for the Harding Icefield, an area of extreme beauty. More than 40 glaciers flow from the icefield, creating mindblowing landscapes that are best explored on foot or by boat.

You’ll likely spend most of your time hiking and boating. A Kenai Fjords boat tour is my favorite way to explore the fjord network.

Available all year, highlights of the boat tour include Resurrection Bay and its glaciers, and the potential sightings of humpback whales. In summer and winter, you can also hike to Exit Glacier.

It is one of the most accessible valley glaciers in Alaska and is an important example of glacier regression.

If you seek a bigger challenge, the 13 km (8.2 mi) Harding Icefield Trail leaves Exit Glacier and climbs 304m (1000 ft) to offer breathtaking views of the Icefield.

Kodiak is the main city on Kodiak Island , a large island found on the south coast of Alaska. There’s something for everyone to enjoy in Kodiak, no matter what they like to do.

Animal lovers will enjoy exploring the island on a Kodiak Island Expedition .

In spring and summer, bear viewing tours head out in search of the great brown bear. In winter, tours travel by dog sled and snowmobile in search of caribou and red foxes on the way to the isolated Rainy Pass Lodge .

During a winter tour, you might even spot the aurora borealis !

In Kodiak, there are several attractions open all year round. The Alutiiq Museum houses more than 250,000 artifacts from the last 7,500 years, while the Kodiak History Museum features exhibits from past and present Kodiak.

I recommend taking on the Termination Point 8 km (4.97 mi) hike during your time in Kodiak too!

Skagway is a much smaller city in southeast Alaska. A popular cruise destination in the Inside Passage , this city is best known for its Gold Rush history and lush gardens.

In Skagway, you’ll find preserved Gold Rush-era buildings, the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, and the famous Chilkoot Trail.

The Chilkoot Trail is a big hit with hikers and it can be accessed all year. This trail is a 53 km (33 mi) recreational route that features sweeping mountain views, river boardwalks, and relics from the Gold Rush.

To experience the scenery in more comfort, book your spot on the White Pass Summit Excursion , which operates in summer. You’ll experience the unique railroad and pass some of Alaska’s most iconic sights.

In Skagway, stop by the Gold Rush Cemetery and the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park Museum to learn more about the area’s mining history. At night, enjoy a unique experience and a refreshing beer at the historic Red Onion Saloon .

The port city of Seward can be found on an inlet on the Kenai Peninsula in Southern Alaska. Adventurous travelers make their way to the city to hike the breathtaking trails, experience Alaskan wildlife, get up close to the vast glaciers, and explore the historical community.

In summer, adrenaline junkies can race through the forests on a zipline at Stoney Creek Canopy Adventures , explore the fjords on a kayak tour , and take to the skies on a flightseeing tour . A plane or helicopter tour will offer a unique perspective of the glaciers and Mt. Marathon.

Boat tours are popular too, with this Seward boat tour visiting multiple glaciers and offering tourists the chance to spot humpback whales and orcas .

Keen hikers will enjoy the Ptarmigan Lake trail from Seward, while skiing lovers will enjoy tackling the groomed trails around Seward in winter.

In Seward, be sure to visit the Alaska Sea Life Center to learn more about Alaskan wildlife.

11. Talkeetna

If you hope to visit Mt Denali , consider staying in Talkeetna , an area famous for its mountaineering and artsy community.

Close to downtown Talkeetna sits Talkeetna Riverfront Park. At the park, you can walk to where 3 swift glacial rivers meet and take in awesome views of the Alaskan Range and Mt Denali. In summer, the looped trail is popular with hikers.

In winter, the trails are a popular skiing, snowmobiling, and dog sledding destination.

From Talkeetna, you can also jump on a flightseeing tour of Mt Denali . Running all year, this flight tour provides a unique perspective of the Alaskan wilderness.

You could also head out on a wilderness excursion with Mahay’s Jet Boat Adventures , which offers thrilling tours of Devil’s Canyon.

In summer and winter, the Hurricane Turn Train leaves Talkeetna too. The hop-on, hop-off train service offers impressive views of the Alaskan backcountry.

Tourists flock to Valdez every year to enjoy the region’s breathtaking natural beauty.

One of the biggest draws to the city is Valdez Glacier Lake. This 32 km (20 mi) valley glacier is located in the Chugach Mountains and ends in Valdez.

In summer, companies like Stan Stephens Cruises run boat tours from Valdez Glacier Lake to Prince William Sound.

On a boat tour, you’ll get closer to the glacier and you might spot orcas.

In winter, it is even possible to ice skate, snowshoe, and ski across the frozen lake. Cross-country skiing and snowboarding in the Chugach Mountains are popular in winter too.

In summer, many travelers head to Valdez to hike. For beginners, the Dock Point Trail is an easy option, while more experienced hikers can take on the Soloman Gulch Trail.

After a busy day of exploring, visit The Potato for some classic Alaskan comfort food. I highly recommend the curly fries with sausage gravy! The restaurant is only open between May and September.

13. North Pole

Alaska is home to its very own North Pole , and it’s just as cool as you would expect. The North Pole is famous for its year-round Christmas decorations and candy cane-striped street lights.

The main attraction in the North Pole is Santa Claus House , which is open all year round. Perfect for children and big kids.

Santa Claus House is home to live reindeer, the largest Santa statue in the world, multiple gift shops, and of course, Santa himself. North Pole, does face stiff competition from Rovaniemi, Finland for the true home of Santa Claus!

In December, things are taken to another level with the Winterfest & Holiday Bazaar – an event filled with Christmas activities, firework displays, and local vendors.

Other points of interest include Chena Lake Recreation Area and Arctic Harvest Farm Distillery . In winter, the recreation area is a popular ice-fishing spot. In summer, the paved trails are perfect for biking and hiking.

At the distillery, you can learn how spirits are made and sample the good stuff!

Juneau is one of the best places to visit in Alaska for whale watching. There are various boat tours and kayaking tours that allow you to get closer to humpback whales. If you’re lucky, you may even get to see a pod of whales feeding.

When you’re not looking for whales, you’ll find yourself exploring Mendenhall Glacier, which can be done on foot or by boat.

This Ice Adventure Tour includes a van ride through Tongass National Forest and a kayaking trip to Mendenhall Lake, where you’ll see the impressive Nugget Falls and icebergs that have calved off from the glacier.

Alternatively, you can hike along the East Glacier Loop. This 4.8 km (5 mi) loop takes you to an epic icefield viewpoint.

In winter, dogsledding is a popular activity in Juneau. This helicopter and dogsledding tour stops by Tongass National Forest and Juneau Icefield.

For some luxury in Juneau, stay at Beachside Villa . The location is stunning and you can occasionally spot seals.

Most travelers who make their way to Sitka do so to hike in Sitka National Park , which happens to be the oldest national park in Alaska and the site of Russia’s defeat of the indigenous Tlingit people.

In winter and summer, you can hike along the Totem Trail, which is arguably the most popular trail in Sitka. This trail features 20 tall totem poles and is 1.6 km (1 mi) long. The trail is mobility accessible with a paved walkway, dedicated parking places, and accessible bathrooms.

The trail that leaves the visitor center is an excellent alternative option too, as it leads through lush coastal forest and past several interesting memorial sites.

Other popular hiking trails include the Indian River Trail and the Mt. Verstovia Trail. In winter, snowboarding and skiing can be done at Bear Mountain too.

When it comes to grabbing something to eat, be sure to tuck into some freshly caught seafood at Beak Restaurant .

Homer is a small city on Kachemak Bay in the Kenai Peninsula. The main focal point in Homer is a long strip of land with art galleries, shops, seafood restaurants, and beautiful beaches.

I recommend checking out the artwork and Alaskan ivory crafts for sale in the Art Shop Gallery and visiting Fat Olives for a delicious steak or seafood dinner and a refreshing beer.

When it comes to exploring, start at the Islands and Ocean Visitor Center , where you can learn more about marine life and the best hikes.

My favorite hike is the Grewingk Glacier Lake Trail in Kachemak Bay State Park. This 4.8 km (3 mi) trail is super easy and it offers one-of-a-kind views of the glacier. You might also see eagles and small hawks hunting.

In the summer, you can take a cruise of Kachemak Bay or explore the glacier lake on a paddle board tour – a super unique way to explore the area.

17. Prudhoe Bay

One of Prudhoe Bay’s main attractions is the journey to get there. Doable all year round, you can reach Prudhoe by driving along the famous Dalton Highway – a 666 km (414 mi) highway and one of the most northern roads in the world .

Prudhoe Bay is largely an oil town and home to the largest oil field in North America. Due to this, parts of Prudhoe are challenging to visit or inaccessible due to the security needs of the oil field.

Prudhoe Bay is also the unofficial end of the Pan American Highway – a 30,000 km (19,000 mile) network of roads stretching across the Americas. You can find the Northern Terminus of the Pan-American Highway on Google Maps .

It is worth noting, though, that some parts of the Pan American Highway near Prudhoe Bay can only be accessed by a pre-booked tour.

Aside from that, most tourists travel to Prudhoe Bay for wildlife watching and to dip their toes in the Arctic Ocean.

18. Utqiagvik

Utqiagvik is the northernmost town in the United States and it’s best known for its Inupiat culture, which can still be seen all over the town and its surroundings.

During summer, you can experience Indigenous Alaskan traditions at the Nalukataq festival , which usually takes place every June.

If you aren’t visiting Utqiagvik in summer, you can learn all about Inupiat history at the Inupiat Heritage Center , which presents arts and crafts from past and present Inupiat people.

Those who enjoy walking will love the Utqiagvik self-guided walking tour . This trail is accessible in summer and winter and it visits all the points of interest in the town, including the Will Rogers & Wiley Post Monument, Mound 44 Ukkuqsi Archeological Site, and the original settlement.

Make sure you take a photograph of Whale Bone Arch along the route!

If you visit in the summer, you could also join a Point Barrow tour to see the northernmost point in the United States.

19. Katmai National Park

Most tourists flock to Katmai National Park to see the resident bears. Between May and July is when bear viewing is at its best.

During this time of year, bears can be easily spotted feeding on salmon at Brook Falls, where you’ll find several awesome viewpoints and hikes.

The 2 km (1.2 mi) Brooks Fall Trail is one of the best hikes. It leads through dense boreal forest and offers wonderful bear viewing opportunities. The 2.4 km (1.5 mi) Dumpling Mountain Trail is great too!

You can also see the bears in Katmai on a flight or boat tour. I recommend taking the Katmai Brooks Falls Bear Experience tour.

On this tour, you will be flown into the heart of the park where bears can commonly be found catching salmon in the river. The bear-watching tour lasts from June until early August, with a late summer tour replacing those arriving during the rest of the month.

If you want to spend the night in Katmai, you can stay at the cozy Brooks Lodge or camp between July and September. Katmai is open in winter, but you’ll have to plan your trip carefully because the weather can make things challenging.

20. Girdwood

Girdwood is a resort town in southern Alaska that offers tourists a huge range of outdoor activities and attractions. The town is home to the Alaskan Wildlife Conservation Center , the Alyeska Aerial Tram , and countless hiking trails.

The wildlife conservation center houses more than 200 animal enclosures and is dedicated to preserving Alaska’s wildlife. You’ll see brown bears, wolves, lynx, and wood bison during your visit.

The Alyeska Aerial Tram carries visitors to Alyeska Resort at the top of Mt. Alyeska (701 meters/2,300 feet). The views are exceptional and the tram operates all year. However, it is most popular in winter, when tourists can ski at the resort.

If you want to try something different in Girdwood, you could pan for gold at Crow Creek Gold Mine , or ride the Glacier Discovery Train to Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop, where you’ll find an impressive icefield.

Willow is the perfect destination if you want to experience a wider range of Alaskan attractions such as dog sledding, salmon fishing, canoeing, and hiking.

Dog sledding can be done with Alaskan Husky Adventures . In winter, this tour company offers exhilarating Christmas excursions that include dog sled rides, kennel tours, and time to play with the dogs.

In July and August, keen fisherman can try their luck for salmon at Willow Creek State Recreation Area. There are plenty of designated fishing spots to choose from so you won’t be short of options.

Summer is also a good time to visit Nancy Lake State Recreation Area, where you can hire a canoe and take to the water for a couple of hours.

Alternatively, you could head to Hatcher Pass and hike to Independence Mine (only accessible between July and September).

If you love wildlife and photography, you have to visit Haines , a lively town near Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. The town itself is a great place to take photographs because it sits on the water and has a breathtaking mountain backdrop.

However, on a Haines photography tour , you can visit several stunning photo spots with a local expert. You’ll photograph traditional totem poles, sweeping vistas, vast glaciers, and Chilkhoot State Park.

You should visit the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve during your visit to Haines. Up to 400 bald eagles call the 48,000-acre preserve home all year round, so there’s a good chance you’ll spot some.

If you’d prefer to do something more exhilarating, you could explore Haines on an ATV tour . Best in spring and summer, you’ll ride along the Takshanuk trail in search of cascading waterfalls and snow-capped mountains.

To learn more about Haines’s history, visit the Sheldon Museum .

Nome is a bigger Alaskan city with a population of approximately 3,500. You’ll spend most of your time in Nome exploring the city, taking in local cultures, and hiking in Bering Land Bridge National Preserve .

One of the main attractions in the city is the Carrie M. McLain Memorial Museum. This museum is dedicated to collecting, preserving, and sharing the history, culture, and artistry of the Bering Strait from its humble beginnings as a tent town to the lively city it is today.

Other notable historic locations in Nome include Swanberg Dredge and Anvil City Square. If you visit Nome in March, you’ll be able to catch the end of the historic Iditarod – a 1,688 km (1,049 mi) dog sled race that finishes in Nome.

If you visit Nome in summer, I recommend hiking to Serpentine Hot Springs to enjoy a relaxed afternoon in the tundra.

Winter poses a great time in Nome to spot the northern lights so keep your eyes peeled!

24. Gates of the Arctic National Park

Gates of the Arctic National Park is the second-largest national park service wilderness area in the United States, and arguably the best place in Alaska for outdoor adventure.

You can explore the park in winter and summer, but it is easier to visit in summer. You’ll spend your time in the park hiking and looking for wildlife.

Six designated rivers can be explored by raft or kayak too, so I highly recommend booking a rafting tour .

The best hiking destination in the park is the Oolah Pass Packback. Nestled in the Brooks Range between the vil­lage of Anak­tu­vuk Pass and the Dal­ton High­way, this trail offers 104.6 km (65 mi) of untamed off-trail hiking routes.

Aside from epic mountain views, you might also see grizzly bears, wolves, Dall sheep, moose, caribou, and wolverines as you hike.

Amazing places to visit in Alaska (on a map!)

I hope you enjoyed my guide to the best places to visit in Alaska. If you have any comments or suggestions of amazing places to visit in Alaska that you think I have missed, please comment below!

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• Travel Stories

Visiting The Last Frontier: The Best Places To Visit In Alaska

Named “The Last Frontier” because of its vast areas of unpopulated wilderness, Alaska is the perfect location for travelers to step outside of their normal routines and experience the raw unfiltered beauty of the world. From high mountain peaks to low-lying mudflats and the dazzling beautiful Northern Lights, each new experience will leave you craving the open air and experiencing a daring side to yourself. Growing up with family in various cities throughout Alaska, I became very accustomed to the close-knit community and slow-moving lifestyle of the inhabitants. However, as with every state, there is variation. Therefore cities like Ketchikan and Anchorage are larger tourist destinations that offer a more bustling and activity-filled experience, while places such as Petersburg cater to a more local feel. I guarantee with this list of the best places to visit in Alaska you are sure to find something to grab your attention.

Table of Contents

The Best Places To Visit In Alaska

Starting off the list of the best places to visit in Alaska is Ketchikan. I’m a little biased because I have family that lives here, however, that is not the only reason that this town is at the top of my list. As the biggest cruise port in the state, Ketchikan is host to a plethora of shops, cafes, and restaurants tucked inside of brightly colored buildings on stilts, that are sure to make you feel like you’re in a storybook land.

Ketchikan is also home to the largest collection of Totem poles in the world, which stand as a symbol of the rich indigenous cultures that are still alive in Alaska today. With an average rainfall of 160+ inches of rain a year, this beautiful town resides in a rainforest which results in some of the most incredible hiking trails in the state. Close by, Misty Fjords National Monument offers tourists the opportunity to stand on top of a glacier and even has the option of riding on a dog sled!

Anchorage 

Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska which also makes it its business epicenter. While this might not initially strike someone as being one of the best places to visit in Alaska, this bustling town is not without its own fair share of activities and natural wonders which make it an essential stop during your trip. From locally owned shops and restaurants to museums, theaters, and the University of Anchorage, this bustling city offers the perfect blend of a quaint local feel with the high energy of any major city. Stunning natural wonders like Katmai National Park are easily accessible by a float plane from Lake Hood, the world’s busiest seaplane base. Whenever I’m in town I love to go to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center to check out the wild animals that they are caring for. 

This city throws all of your preconceived notions about what a state’s capital should look like out the window. With 99% of its square footage uninhabited, this is the ultimate location for people who are looking for an adventure-filled experience while also having the option to lodge comfortably in a hotel at night. Mendenhall Glacier is one of the best and easiest attractions to visit. Accessible by foot, kayak, boat, and helicopter, this one-of-a-kind experience allows you to witness this ice formation up close and personal. (If you choose the helicopter option, you are even able to ride a sled dog at the top!)

Haines and Skagway 

Even though both of these towns are only 14 miles apart from each other, there is no direct road that links them. Therefore the fastest way to go is by plane or boat. I’m sure you’re thinking, is the trek worth it? Should they be on the list of the best places to travel to in Alaska? Well, the short answer is yes. Located in the north of the Southeast Alaska Panhandle, Skagway is nestled within the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, and Haines is close to the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. Both of these offer tremendous opportunities to become face to face with wildlife and their numerous lakes and inlets are the perfect places to hone your fishing skills. From Skagway, you’re also able to ride the White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad to see more of the country from the comfort of a train car. 

Fairbanks 

When you think of Fairbanks, the first thing to come to your mind should be the Aurora Borealis. Positioned close to the Arctic Circle, this magical town provides tourists with the opportunity to see the breathtaking Lights during the winter time, and the ever-present sun in the summer. Hop aboard a plane for a flightseeing tour of this one-of-a-kind landscape, or visit Georgeson Botanical Garden to learn about Alaskan native plant species. The Tanana River that Fairbanks sits on is the location for the ultimate boat cruise complete with a guided walking tour of the Chena Village, a bush pilot demonstration, and a dog mushing demonstration! 

Sitka 

This unique small town is easily one of the best places to visit in Alaska. Situated on Baranof Island on the Alaskan Panhandle, it was formerly a Russian territory and the site of one of the last major conflicts between European forces and the Native Americans. As such, Sitka is filled with tributes to the Tlingit tribe through artifacts, totem poles, and preserved forts. There are a plethora of nearby islands able to be explored through hikes and walking tours. Sitka itself is only one mile from end to end but attractions such as the Sitka Science Center and Sitka Historic Museum will keep you both informed and entertained during your stay. The Fortress of the Bear Rescue Center rehabilitates rescued bears and educates visitors on their specific features while giving them an up-close view of them. 

Petersburg 

While this town is not typically found in a top spot on the list of the best places to visit in Alaska, its charm and rich history make it more than deserving of one. This Norwegian fishing town celebrates its culture by hosting multiple festivals every year. During Christmas time, their Julebukking festival occurs where businesses set out food and locals walk around eating and interacting with one another.

Petersburg is home to the largest Sons of Norway clubs in Alaska that spend their time celebrating their Norwegian heritage through demonstrations and cultural events throughout the year. Petersburg has always predominantly been a fishing town and their traditions are still vibrant today. I have extremely fond memories of Petersburg because I would come here as a kid and distinctly remember my grandpa picking up my family from the docks and driving us in his skiff to a nearby island where he and my grandma lived in a log cabin. 

Denali National Park 

Last but far from least on the list, this wonder-filled national park is definitely one of the best places to visit in Alaska as it consists of six million acres of untouched land. The topography ranges from the low-situated taiga forest to the high elevation of the alpine tundra which hosts Mount Denali, the tallest peak in North America. Hiking, camping, and climbing are among the most popular activities to do out in this stunning backcountry. Wildlife roam as they please, without fences or enclosures to keep them in any one particular area. Therefore it’s important to read about bear safety before you visit so that you are well-prepared should you encounter any danger: 

Best Activities In Alaska

Hiking .

Alaska has some of the best hiking trails in the world. For an easier hiking experience, and my personal favorite, you can check out Perseverance Trail in Juneau. It’s a 4.6-mile round trip and will lead you through rainforests to waterfalls and along rivers. The elevation stays relatively the same throughout the hike which makes it perfect for the more inexperienced hiker. I recommend trying out Ketchikan’s Deer Mountain Trail which takes you above the clouds at 3,000 ft. (Make sure to wear lots of bug spray because the mosquitos and deer flies can be intense).

For hikers looking for something more rigorous and advanced, Bonanza Mine Trail in Wrangell – St. Elias National Park will not disappoint. A nine-mile round trip with an elevation of 3800 ft. makes this one of the hardest hikes in Alaska. If you want to grab your snow gear and face the elements you can also try Harding Icefield Trail in the Kenai Fjord. This hike climbs an elevation of 1,000 each mile, and hikers should allot 6-8 hours for the entire journey. However if you can make it through the threat of avalanches along with temperature and terrain changes, the breathtaking view of the Exit Glacier is your final reward. 

Fishing 

Depending on your preference, you can do salt, freshwater, or ice fishing throughout the state. Many tour packages for saltwater fishing offer full-day or half-day excursions with charter fishermen and women that will take you to remote locations for the best chance of catching Salmon and Halibut. I have done many trips out on my Grandfather’s boat in Ketchikan where we have been able to catch crab, shrimp, halibut, and salmon. You will not want to miss out on an excursion like this one as it is definitely a fantastic choice when thinking about what to do in Alaska. 

For a freshwater experience, take a tour along a river or lake and fish for Rainbow, Dolly Varden, Steelhead, or Cutthroat trout. Some locations will have lodging options so you can make your fishing excursion a multiple-day endeavor. 

In cities like Fairbanks during the winter time, ice fishing becomes a very popular option. Rent your own gear and try it out for yourself or join a tour and have a guide show you the ropes!

Northern Lights

While seeing the Lights depends on a lot of factors, the best shot you have of getting a glimpse of these natural wonders is between late August and mid-April, with the best viewing location in/ near the Arctic Circle. Fly into Fairbanks which is located just below the main Aurora Belt and travel for about an hour to get into a prime viewing location. The best time to see them is between 11 pm and 2 am when it’s darkest and the colors will appear most vibrant. Of course, there will be days where the weather just won’t cooperate and it will be too cloudy to see them (this is what happened to me and my family in Talkeetna one time) so have a flexible attitude, and make sure you check weather reports!

Some of the best tourism in Alaska is centered around viewing the Northern Lights. It is the best and easiest way to increase your chances of optimal viewing. Tour groups such as Northern Alaska Tour Company , Iniakuk Lake Wilderness Lodge , and Godwana Eco Tours are all great options for your visit and vary depending on the type of experience you are looking for. 

Also Read: All You Need To Know About The Northern Lights In Alaska

Dog Sledding 

A must-see while in Alaska is the Iditarod! This long-distance sled dog competition is held annually at the beginning of March and its course runs from Anchorage to Nome. Spectators line up at the start, finish, and along various parts throughout the race to cheer on the sled dogs and their mushers. 

There are also many different places throughout Alaska that offer dog sled rides for tourists. AK Sled Dog Tours located in Trapper Creek just outside of Talkeetna allows visitors to mush their own sled dog team and end the experience by playing with sled dog puppies. Enjoy traversing through a winter wonderland between November and April, or mix it up by doing a dry land run between May and October. (I had the opportunity to do this during December one year, and it is still one of the greatest highlights of my life – just check out the photos below!)

Other options for sled dog tours include Susitna Sled Dog Adventures also in Talkeetna (Offered in the winter, with dog walks and kennel tours offered in the summer), Coastal Helicopters Inc which begins the tour with a helicopter ride to Herbert Glacier in Juneau where you then meet up with the sled dogs for a ride of a lifetime (Offered May-August), and Alaska Mushing School outside of Anchorage that provides tours both during the day and at night in the wintertime. If you choose the nighttime option there’s a chance you’ll get to see the Northern Lights during your ride!

Flight Seeing 

One of the best ways to fully experience the beauty and wonders of Alaska is from the sky. From up in the air, you are able to have a different perspective on all the great places to visit in Alaska such as on a helicopter ride over Denali National Forest. Or splurge for a 6-day adventure to fly from Homer to the Alaska Bear Camp to get the best-viewing potential of Alaska’s beautiful Brown Bears. I did a flight-seeing tour in Ketchikan that took us into the Misty Fjords National Monument and from the air we were also able to see New Eddy Stone rock and large parts of the Tongass National Forest which made the experience so much fun. 

Trail Ridge Air Inc , and Regal Air Bear Viewing are other companies that provide fly-in access to popular spots where bears frequent. You won’t want to miss out on the opportunity to see these elusive creatures in their natural habitat. 

What To Know Before You Go

Indigenous tribes in alaska.

It is essential for travelers into Alaska to be knowledgeable about the indigenous tribes that have resided there for thousands of years. There are 228 federally recognized tribes in the state, about half of the tribes in the Nation. The first recordings of people in Alaska trace back 15,000 years ago when a land bridge connected Siberia to the eastern region of the state. 

There are 11 cultures grouped into 5 different areas of the state: in the Arctic resides the Iñupiat and St. Lawrence Island Yup’ik; further inland in south-central Alaska is the Athabascan tribe; southwest Alaska has both the Yup’ik and Cup’ik groups; in south-central and the Aleutian Islands live the Unangax̂ and Sugpiaq (Alutiiq); and in the Inside Passage are the Eyak, Haida Tsimshian, and Tlingit peoples. 

Today, the coastally situated tribes rely heavily on fishing for food. The 2021 documentary, “Alaskan Nets” focuses on the Tsimshian Natives of Metlakatla– the only Indian Reserve in Alaska– and talks about the cultural connection of the town to both fishing and basketball. Other tribes, like the Yup’ik and Iñupiat tribes, participate also in subsistence Bowhead whale hunting on top of regular fishing, which provides their main source of food and a large part of their culture. 

Alaska On A Budget 

Due to its remote location, Alaska, while beautiful and incredibly unique, is not exactly cheap. While there’s no sales tax in Alaska there is a bed tax which can range from 5-15% for accommodations. Cities like Ketchikan have a bed tax of 15% while Skagway and Fairbanks are around 8%. If you want to go a little off the beaten path, towns like Nome and Valdez have a tax of around 6%. To avoid these expenses, consider bringing a tent and camping out in a national or state park, or a public campground. You may also want to explore hostels and Forest Service Cabin options for a cheaper alternative. 

The main tourist season runs from May to September and during these months prices for accommodations, rental cars and attractions are going to be higher. For a comparably enjoyable experience weather-wise, you can opt to go in late April or late September for cheaper. If you are a true adventure seeker, you can visit Alaska in the winter and brave the harsh snow conditions and low temperatures. Keep in mind however that many businesses and tourist attractions may not be available. 

Finally, you can cut down on your trip costs by skipping the rental car and buying bus tickets. The Interior Alaska Bus Line runs every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday year-round and makes stops in Anchorage, Glennallen, Fairbanks, and Tok. Tickets are around $30 which includes two pieces of luggage free of charge. The Alaska Park Connection Motorcoach is the only same-day service between Seward and Denali National Park (with stops in Whittier, Anchorage, and Talkeetna). This service runs May-September and tickets range from $75-180. 

Cuisine 

Subsistence hunting and harvesting are a major part of Alaskan eating habits. Fish is the principal source of food for many locals. Salmon, Halibut, Cod, Crab, Shrimp, Sea Cucumbers, and Freshwater Trout are just some examples. 

Moose, deer, elk, and caribou are also popular meat options as well as the farming of potatoes, vegetables, huckleberries, apples, and grain in the Matanuska Valley. 

Conclusion 

I hope you enjoyed some insight into the best places to visit in Alaska. As you can see, there is no shortage of fun things to do in Alaska, and a blog post like this isn’t able to even scratch the surface of all the best places to visit in this one-of-a-kind state. Regardless of what type of adventure you choose to seek during your stay, whether it be seeing the Northern Lights in the Arctic Circle or bear watching in Sitka, one thing is certain: traveling in Alaska will be an unforgettable experience to talk about for years to come. 

The type of clothing you should bring depends on the time of year that you’re visiting. As a general rule, always have hiking boots/ waterproof shoes that you don’t mind getting wet and or dirty. In the winter/springtime, you will definitely need snow gear such as pants, a jacket, head coverings, gloves, and (multiple) warm socks. Always have warm attire underneath such as leggings, pants, long sleeves, and sweaters. In the summer, there are days that will welcome shorts and t-shirts/ tank tops. However, for the most part, expect to wear pants (blue jeans work fine) and a sweater with layers underneath. Remember– comfort over appearance is key in a place like Alaska!

For a well-rounded trip that doesn’t feel too jam-packed, you should alot at least a week (not including travel days). This will give you the opportunity to explore about two to three cities comfortably. The ideal time to spend is between 10 days and 2 weeks. During this time frame, you can allow yourself to explore less-touristy attractions and get to know each town for its hidden quirks and characteristics. It will also make it possible to have some days of downtime which can become coveted when the majority of your trip will be outdoors facing the elements and doing activities that are outside the ordinary. However, no matter how much time you are able to dedicate to this land, you are sure to have the time of your life.

Don’t try to pack in too many activities in one trip. If you are only about to spend a week or less in the state, try to focus on one region and explore the areas around there instead of trying to hit everything on your bucket list. You will become exhausted too quickly and it will most likely make the trip less enjoyable overall.  Don’t disrespect the Native Alaskans or their land. This means being mindful of how you react to certain foods and or customs you observe or participate in. Also, do not litter or overindulge in anything you hunt or gather.

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25 Best Places to Visit in Alaska In 2024

Written By: ThePlanetD Team

United States

Updated On: February 21, 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.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

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:

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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 😀

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Are guests visiting you in Alaska? Here are a few easy options for quick journeys or easy day trips.

Independence Mine State Historical Park and its parking lots become clear from cloud cover for a brief minute on July 30, 2023. This view of the valley is from Gold Cord Lake. (Anne Raup / ADN)

Ever since moving to Alaska decades ago, friends and relatives call or write to have me help them plan their trip. That often includes crashing on our couch and picking them up from their midnight flight.

Start planning now for your guests’ arrival. There are hundreds of options for your visitors, but here are a few plug-and-play day trips or quick journeys to get started.

On the first day, get your visitors up early and drive them up to Flat Top. Depending on their energy level and the snowpack, you can take a short stroll from the parking lot to the overlook, head up to the top of the mountain, or hike up Powerline Pass for some stunning alpine views.

Then, take them to some of Anchorage’s coolest places, rain or shine. That includes the Anchorage Museum, the Alaska Native Heritage Center, the Alaska Botanical Gardens and the Alaska Zoo. Let them buy you lunch!

For day two, consider a trip south to Girdwood for a ride on the tram at Alyeska Resort. It’s always a hit. Long-time Girdwood enthusiasts will insist on a stop at the Bake Shop for a big sweet roll.

After your tram ride, continue heading down the highway to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. Check out the bears, the Musk Oxen, the elk, the porcupines, the bison and all the other critters.

Finally, take the cutoff to Whittier. Don’t go through the tunnel, though. That’s another full-day excursion to go on the 26 Glacier Cruise. Instead, head for the Portage Glacier Cruise for a journey on the MV Ptarmigan to the face of the glacier.

For day three, head north to Talkeetna. I was there yesterday for lunch at the Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge, and Denali is still there — bigger than ever. A couple of flightseeing planes landed as I munched on a sandwich with some friends in the visitor industry. The flight up and around Denali is a fun thing to do, especially if your pilot lands on a glacier.

If you’re more comfortable at ground level, go for a jetboat ride with Mahay’s Jetboat Adventures. Just after launching from the dock on the Talkeetna River, there’s a great photo opportunity of Denali when they turn the boat and head up the Susitna River.

My favorite pizza in town is at Denali Brewing’s location close to the Parks Highway. Of course, there’s also a great selection of their beer.

The flightseeing trips are weather-dependent. If you can’t fly, head back to town, but take the cutoff to Palmer over Hatcher Pass. This is a fabulous drive through some incredible alpine country. The last time I saw a bear ... from a comfortable distance. Once you’re over the summit, you’ll see the Independence Mine historical site on the left. Make a stop. Stretch your legs and check out the old mine buildings. In fact, they’re still mining in the valley.

For day number four you can head back down the Seward Highway to either Seward or Whittier for a glacier and wildlife cruise.

Trips further afield include overnight accommodations, which require a little more advance planning.

A trip to Homer is fun. The Homer Spit is one of our family’s favorite beaches in Alaska. Be sure and make plans to head across the bay. Ride with Mako’s Water Taxi and take a trip to hike to Grewingk Glacier. Pack a lunch from La Baleine Cafe , located near Mako’s office at Homer’s small boat harbor.

Take the Seldovia Bay Ferry from Homer over to Seldovia for the day. The town is walkable — and you can hike the Otter Bahn trail to Outside Beach for some beautiful views.

The Danny J sails each day from Homer’s small boat harbor to Halibut Cove, where guests can enjoy lunch or dinner at the Saltry restaurant. The restaurant looks over the cove — and it’s a great way to spend a day on the water.

Combine a trip to Fairbanks with a ride on the Alaska Railroad. The train leaves each morning headed north. It’s an all-day excursion. But it’s a fun ride. The train slows down going over the Hurricane Bridge, where you can look down into the gulch, nearly 300 feet below. This is the railroad’s 101st season.

You’ll need a car to get around Fairbanks. Don’t miss a visit to the Museum of the North on the University of Alaska Fairbanks campus. On the drive over, you might see some migrating waterfowl at Creamer’s Field .

Check out Explore Fairbanks’ website for a list of great things to see and do. Then fly back home to Anchorage on Alaska Airlines. One way on the train is enough!

Look east for one of my favorite adventures: to Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. Take the scenic drive up the Glenn Highway from Anchorage through the Matanuska River Valley. Once you get to Glennallen, take a right and head down the Richardson Highway to Valdez. Take the cutoff to Chitina past Copper Center. After you cross the Copper River, you’re officially inside the nation’s largest national park. The McCarthy Road is one of Alaska’s classic 35-miles-per-hour highways, along with the Denali Highway and the Taylor Highway. Most of it is gravel.

Be sure and let your hosts know when you expect to arrive in McCarthy. Some lodges are before the bridge over the Kennicott River — and they can give you directions. Otherwise, park at the bridge, walk across and get a shuttle on the other side. You can stay up at the historic mining district at Kennecott, about five miles north of McCarthy. Or, there are several options right in McCarthy.

Be sure and check out options to tour the old mill buildings and hike on the Root Glacier with St. Elias Alpine Guides.

You also can skip the drive on the gravel McCarthy Road and fly back with Wrangell Mountain Air from Chitina. The 60-mile flight is one of the best flightseeing tours around. The pilot often will fly up through Fourth of July Pass and come out over the Kennicott Glacier for million-dollar views of the whole valley, including the historic Kennecott Mining District. The word “Kennecott” is alternatively spelled with an “e” or an “i.” There’s a whole story behind the various spellings.

After spending a couple of days in the McCarthy area, head back to the Richardson Highway and drive south to Valdez. The drive up over Thompson Pass and then down past the waterfalls in Keystone Canyon is spectacular! Plan on spending the night in Valdez to be on time for the early-morning departure of the Alaska State Ferry. Be sure and confirm the schedule well in advance.

Roll your car onto the ferry and sail away to Whittier. This is the ultimate shortcut for your return to Anchorage! Once you arrive in Whittier, it’s just a one-hour drive back to Anchorage. Plus, there’s no fee to drive out through the tunnel!

These are just a few itineraries to get started. Stitch together your own plan using these guides, available online or through the mail:

a. The Visit Anchorage guide offers lots of options in and around our city.

b. The Travel Alaska guide features options all over the state, from Ketchikan to the Arctic.

c. The Mat-Su Valley’s guide includes options from Talkeetna to Lake Louise to Knik Glacier.

d. The Homer Chamber of Commerce offers tips on fishing, bear viewing and sightseeing.

So get some rest and fill up your tank. Company’s coming.

Scott McMurren

Scott McMurren is an Anchorage-based marketing consultant, serving clients in the transportation, hospitality, media and specialty destination sectors, among others. Contact him by email at [email protected]. Subscribe to his e-newsletter at alaskatravelgram.com. For more information, visit alaskatravelgram.com/about.

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How to see the northern lights in alaska in 2024.

If seeing the northern lights in Alaska is on your bucket list, this is the year to do it.

How to See the Northern Lights in Alaska

Chris McLennan | Courtesy of State of Alaska

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says solar activity is intensifying and will peak (at a higher level than previously thought) in 2024. This means travelers will have more opportunities to see the northern lights around the world .

If you're considering a trip to Alaska to witness this atmospheric phenomenon, read on to discover the best months to visit as well as a variety of viewing options.

The best time to see the northern lights in Alaska

Where to see the northern lights in alaska, northern lights alaska cruises.

• Alaska northern lights tours

Courtesy of Travel Alaska

According to the Alaska Travel Industry Association, the best time to see the northern lights is typically from Aug. 21 to April 21 , also known as the Aurora Season. While the aurora can appear at any time of night, 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. are the prime viewing hours.

The winter solstice – which is the shortest day of the year, typically falling between Dec. 20 and 23 – is a particularly good time to be in Alaska for the northern lights. This day affords less daylight and more time to spot the aurora. In parts of Alaska, the amount of daylight during the winter solstice can range from around six hours in Anchorage to less than four further north in Fairbanks. Up in remote Utqiagvik (formerly called Barrow), about 320 miles north of the Arctic Circle, there are roughly 67 days of darkness from Nov. 18 to Jan. 23, resulting in even more opportunities to spot the northern lights.

Of course, 2024 is expected to be a little different. Scientists say solar activity will reach its peak from January to October, expanding the typical time frame for spotting the aurora. Ahead of and during your visit, experts recommend utilizing these forecasting resources:

• Aurora Tracker: Whether you're a beginner or an experienced aurora chaser, you'll appreciate Explore Fairbanks' real-time Aurora Tracker . This online reference shows up-to-the-minute information on the temperature, weather and likelihood of catching the northern lights in Fairbanks. Much of the data comes from one of the world's foremost aurora research centers, the Geophysical Institute at the University of Alaska–Fairbanks . To further assist in your search, you can also download the My Aurora Forecast & Alerts app on your smartphone.
• Aurora Forecast: For other parts of the state, the Geophysical Institute website's Aurora Forecast has daily forecasts of geomagnetic activity up to three days in advance and taken at three-hour intervals. There's also a summation on the webpage of whether the aurora will be active – or not – and where you'll find the best visibility in Alaska.

Courtesy of Aurora Villa

Below are the top destinations to consider when deciding where to see the northern lights in Alaska.

Fairbanks, known as the Golden Heart of Alaska, sits at 65 degrees north latitude, making it an excellent choice for aurora hunters, especially first-timers. It's easily accessible and offers plenty of accommodations , restaurants and other unique attractions . You can also be outside of Fairbanks within minutes to find excellent northern lights viewing locales.

Your chances of seeing the aurora display are excellent as the city sits where the activity of the polar lights is concentrated – under the ring-shaped zone known as the auroral oval. Local experts say that on clear evenings when the sky is very dark, you should be able to witness the skies light up on an average of four out of five nights in Fairbanks.

Where to stay:

• Aurora Villa : Located on the outskirts of Fairbanks, Aurora Villa offers luxurious guest rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows for viewing the northern lights in a cozy private space. The modern wooden cabin sits on 10 acres surrounded by forested hills, yet it's close enough to the city (less than 15 miles northeast) to explore all that Fairbanks has to offer.
• Pike's Waterfront Lodge : Located along the Chena River in Fairbanks, just minutes from Fairbanks International Airport, this property offers 180 rooms and 28 cabins for aurora-hunting adventurers. As a guest of the lodge, you can request that the front desk alert you when the northern lights appear – no matter the time of day or night. Pike's Waterfront Lodge also offers amenities to keep guests warm while viewing the light show outdoors.

Talkeetna sits about 115 miles north of Anchorage in south-central Alaska, at the base of Denali, the tallest mountain peak in North America. With its old clapboard buildings, log cabins and roadhouse dating back to 1917, this historic town offers a lot of outdoor fun beyond chasing the aurora. Main Street is filled with galleries, shops, restaurants and a brewery. The quirky village, once a former mining town, was the inspiration for the imaginary borough of Cicely in the TV show "Northern Exposure."

If you visit in December, check out the festivities at the monthlong Winterfest. This event features a parade of lights, a tree lighting ceremony and the Taste of Talkeetna food festival, plus entertaining events like the Bachelor Auction and the Wilderness Woman Competition.

When it's time to look up in the sky for the lights, local aurora hunters recommend heading out of town to Christiansen Lake or past the airport on Beaver Road. If you prefer to stay close by, look north into the sky toward Denali from Talkeetna Riverfront Park.

• Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge : Book a Mountain View room for views of Denali and the Alaskan Range. The cozy lodge offers multiple dining venues, including the award-winning Foraker Restaurant.
• Talkeetna Lakeside Cabins : These cabins provide peace and quiet on a private lake just 12 miles from Talkeetna.

Denali National Park

Denali National Park is another spectacular place to view the northern lights in Alaska – not to mention one of the top tourist attractions in the U.S. The National Park Service says almost everywhere within the park is free from city light pollution, so if the conditions are right (meaning that's it's clear and dark enough), you should be able to see the aurora borealis, especially when looking toward the northern horizon.

However, when wintertime rolls around – from September or October through April – it's more difficult to access parts of the park, even though it's open year-round. Keep in mind, too, that the lodges closest to the park are typically closed from mid-September to mid-May.

Where to stay: Located less than 15 miles from the Denali National Park entrance, the Aurora Denali Lodge offers year-round accommodations equipped with queen-sized beds, smart TVs and private bathrooms. Rates at the lodge include a continental breakfast, free Wi-Fi, free parking and complimentary hot drinks. What's more, the property says visitors can expect plenty of wildlife sightings, such as bears, moose, lynxes, owls and snowshoe hares, just outside your door.

Coldfoot Camp

Coldfoot Camp is situated above the Arctic Circle in the Brooks Mountain Range, near the Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve and the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. The remote wilderness destination is ideal for aurora viewing since it sits directly under the auroral oval. It's also the perfect locale for backcountry snowshoeing, wildlife viewing and dog mushing.

Where to stay: The Inn at Coldfoot Camp offers rustic accommodations located in trailers that once housed Alaskan pipeline workers. The rooms include two twin beds and a private bathroom and shower. Guests can dine at the on-site Trucker's Cafe, which offers breakfast and dinner buffets in the summer months and all-day a la carte dining in the winter. When you're ready for a cold one at the end of the day, check out the Frozen Foot Saloon and order an Alaska-brewed beer.

If you prefer camping and have your own gear , you can camp free of charge on the property during the summer months. Coldfoot Camp also hosts a selection of year-round Arctic adventures and excursions, including a trip to the nearby village of Wiseman for aurora viewing.

This remote wilderness retreat has just 13 full-time residents. Wiseman is located in Alaska's Brooks Range, about 15 miles north of Coldfoot Camp, 60 miles north of the Arctic Circle and 270 miles from Fairbanks. The community sits directly under the auroral oval, making it one of the best places in Alaska to view the northern lights. You can expect to see the spectacle in the sky in Wiseman about 250 nights a year, especially between late August and mid-April.

• Arctic Hive : Arctic Hive has the distinction of being the northernmost yoga studio in the U.S. A common fiberglass lodge allows guests to gather for cooking and meals, and meditation, educational gatherings and other activities are hosted in a geodesic dome. Arctic Hive also offers retreats that include northern lights viewing opportunities in February and March.
• Arctic Getaway : This bed-and-breakfast sits between the middle fork of the Koyukuk River and Wiseman Creek, offering three cabins. While here, you can learn what it's like to homestead in Alaska above the Arctic Circle and enjoy outdoor activities like dog sled rides across the vast wilderness, cross-country skiing , pack rafting and flightseeing by bush plane.
• Boreal Lodging : Reachable by vehicle, Boreal Lodging has several rental options, ranging from lodge rooms to larger cabins with living areas and kitchens.

Located in western Alaska overlooking the Norton Sound of the Bering Sea, Nome is the ending point for the more than 1,000-mile, 51-year-old Iditarod Trail Dog Sled Race in March. Once the most populated city in Alaska, Nome had almost 20,000 residents and an average of 1,000 new people arriving daily during the height of the gold rush in 1899. Nome is a little quieter now, with a population of less than 4,000 residents.

Where to stay: Some of the best spots for viewing the aurora are at the end of town, where the 52-room Aurora Inn & Suites is located. The hotel conveniently offers car rentals on-site.

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Situated on the banks of the Arctic Ocean, Utqiagvik is the northernmost city in the U.S. The town, formerly known as Barrow, changed its name in 2016 back to Utqiagvik, its traditional Inupiaq name. Utqiagvik is only accessible by plane: Alaska Airlines and other regional carriers offer service from both Anchorage and Fairbanks.

Where to stay: For accommodations, make reservations at a hotel named for its location – the Top of the World Hotel . The property's comfortable rooms offer views of the Arctic Ocean, and the on-site restaurant, Niggivikput (meaning "our place to eat"), serves traditional local dishes like reindeer soup. While you may be there for aurora hunting, don't miss the excellent wildlife-viewing opportunities: You may see polar bears, caribou, foxes, bearded seals, whales, walruses, migratory birds and the great snowy owl on the tundra.

Borealis Basecamp

One of the best glamping destinations in the U.S. , Borealis Basecamp is a remote 100-acre property that sits within a boreal forest 25 miles north of Fairbanks. The property features 20 individual igloos, resembling those you'd find at Arctic research stations and on polar expeditions, as well as five glass cubes. All accommodations allow guests to gaze up at the aurora and the starry night sky while snuggled up in bed. You'll also enjoy many amenities you'd find in a hotel, including full bathrooms with toiletries and a selection of coffee, hot cocoa and tea.

Choose from a variety of packages that include accommodations and activities like dog-sledding, UTV tours, helicopter sightseeing experiences and more.

Getty Images

One of the best times to cruise to Alaska is during the aurora season. Aurora season sailings to Alaska are available with the following cruise lines this year.

If you're interested in excursions for aurora viewing, look for a line that offers cruisetours, such as Holland America. These tours offer the best of both worlds, giving you time on land and at sea to view the dancing night sky. Holland America's cruisetours range from overnight stays just 2 miles from Denali National Park at the McKinley Chalet Resort to a domed luxury train ride through Alaska's backcountry on the McKinley Explorer. On a Tundra Wilderness Tour in Denali, look for Alaska's "Big Five": grizzly bears, moose, caribou, Dall sheep and wolves. Just keep in mind that none of the above cruise lines can guarantee you'll see the northern lights during your journey.

The best northern lights tours in Alaska

Jody Overstreet | Courtesy of State of Alaska

If you want to experience the aurora borealis by joining a tour group, you'll find a variety of options led by expert guides and granting you easier access to many of the state's remote destinations, often with other activities included. (Just be aware that, on any tour or excursion, there's no way to guarantee that the aurora will be visible.) These are some of the best northern lights tours in Alaska:

Arctic Dog Adventure Co.: Aurora Overnight Tour

Dog-sledding is one of the top winter activities in Alaska, and you can choose to do it by day or night. If you want to experience an Alaska dog-sledding adventure while chasing the aurora, book a once-in-a-lifetime experience with Arctic Dog's Aurora Overnight Tour. Highlights of this two-day, one-night excursion – which starts in Fairbanks – are dog mushing your own sled team and glamping in a heated tent under an aurora-filled sky. Other features of the tour include cold weather gear, a photography lesson and Alaska-inspired meals.

Alaska Wildlife Guide: Northern Lights & Murphy Dome Tour

Located around 20 miles northwest of the city, Murphy Dome is regarded as one of the best places to watch the northern lights in Fairbanks at nearly 3,000 feet above sea level. This location, once home to Murphy Dome Air Force Station with as many as 250 personnel stationed at the base, now houses a long-range radar station that detects military air threats from overseas.

Alaska Wildlife Guide leads 5.5-hour northern lights tours to Murphy Dome, typically from late August to early April – you can check with the company for day-to-day tour availability. Excursion prices include round-trip transportation from Fairbanks, 360-degree views of the north-facing sky, hot beverages and bottled water – in addition to (hopefully) hours of memorable aurora viewing.

Alaska Wildlife Guide: Northern Lights & Arctic Circle Tour

This full-day (14-hour) excursion, also offered by Alaska Wildlife Guide, begins in Fairbanks and crosses the Arctic Circle into Alaska's vast and remote wilderness. The tour includes a drive along the more than 800-mile Trans-Alaskan Pipeline and a half-mile walk along the loop at Finger Mountain with views overlooking the Kanuti Flats (depending on the season). Your guide will also stop along the riverbank after crossing the Yukon River Bridge.

During the tour, you'll learn about the history of the pipeline and hear narratives around the other included stops. A snack and warm beverage are included; then, if conditions are just right, you'll have the chance to see the brilliant light show dance across the dark, clear skies before you arrive back in Fairbanks at dawn.

Alaska Journey Tours: Northern Lights (Aurora) Chasing Tour

Get picked up at your Fairbanks hotel (or meet at the Hyatt Place Fairbanks) for this three-hour northern lights tour in a heated SUV. Guides take photos of tourgoers as well as their own photos of the night sky, which are later shared with the group. Recent travelers praise this tour, and appreciate that the guides are always determined to give them the best northern lights viewing experience.

Alaska Tours: Bettles Lodge Winter Adventure

Hosted by Alaska Tours, the Bettles Lodge Winter Adventure is available January to March and August to December. This excursion includes two, three or four nights at this wilderness lodge about 35 miles north of the Arctic Circle. During the winter days, enjoy outdoor Arctic sports such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing or stay warm indoors chatting with other guests at the Aurora Lodge. In the evenings, you can bundle up and head outside at one of the best places in Alaska to see the spectacle in the sky.

Prices include round-trip airfare between Fairbanks and Bettles, accommodations at the lodge, meals, a village tour and complimentary use of the Arctic gear (in season).

Alaska Photo Treks: Anchorage Aurora Quest

Alaska Photo Treks offers one of the best ways to see the northern lights in Anchorage – and you'll even learn how best to photograph the aurora, which can be a challenge to capture digitally or on film. This experience, the Anchorage Aurora Quest, is available nightly (when conditions are right), typically from mid-August to mid-April. The approximately six-hour guided tour with a professional photographer explains the science behind the northern lights and provides photo tips for budding aurora photographers in a small-group format. Tourgoers are picked up from their hotel by the guide at about 10 p.m. and return around 4 a.m., though that time can vary based on the aurora forecast.

On the Alaska Photo Treks website, you'll find a list of recommended camera equipment to bring. If you're using a smartphone, the tour group suggests downloading an aurora app and bringing a tripod. The company also advises that you'll be outdoors for about two hours, so you need to dress appropriately for the weather. For the best aurora viewing, the guides usually travel between one to three locations within a 70-mile radius of Anchorage. If you're in town for an extended stay, Alaska Photo Treks also offers a four-day pass for even more nocturnal viewing of the auroral activity.

Alaska Tours: Chena Hot Springs and Northern Lights

Chena Hot Springs Resort is known for its therapeutic waters and aurora-viewing opportunities. If you prefer to head out with a guide rather than on your own, book the Chena Hot Springs and Northern Lights tour with Alaska Tours. This package includes a four- to five-hour Aurora Expedition tour, four nights of accommodations, and access to resort amenities including cross-country skiing and snow machine tours.

Alaska Wildlife Guide: Northern Lights and Chena Hot Springs

Day trips are also an option for those who'd like to enjoy the resort amenities and a chance at seeing the northern lights from Chena Hot Springs. This tour offered by Alaska Wildlife Guide includes admission to the hot springs and Aurora Ice Museum as well as pickup from local hotels. Recent travelers say the tour guides are top-notch.

John Hall's Alaska: Alaska's Winter Wonders

For an extended land tour to chase the aurora – and experience Alaska's magical winter wonderland – book this bucket list eight-day adventure with John Hall's Alaska. The company's Alaska's Winter Wonders tour is offered in February and March; it features up to seven nights of northern lights viewing, as well as adventure-filled days with skiing, snowmobiling and snowshoeing. You'll also take an awe-inspiring flightseeing bush plane ride over Denali National Park, which includes a fly-by of the Foraker, Silverthorne, Hunter and Moose's Tooth peaks before landing on the Great Gorge of Ruth Glacier – the deepest in the world.

If that's not enough adventure, test your skills at dog mushing and curling or take an aerial tram ride. Travelers can also check out the local breweries or just sit back, relax and enjoy the spectacular views. Additional highlights include spending two evenings under the dancing night sky in one of the domed igloos at Borealis Basecamp, as well as aurora borealis photography lessons.

All-inclusive pricing covers accommodations, meals, luxury land and small plane transportation, fully guided service, gratuities, and baggage handling – plus a black subzero jacket to keep you warm during your Alaska adventure.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi is an avid travel adventurer who fell in love with Alaska on her first visit to the state many years ago. She's returned several times on land trips and by ship for year-round outdoor adventure and to chase the northern lights in one of the best places on the planet to view them. She writes about the travel and culinary industries for a variety of major publications.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Packable Jackets
• The Top Things to Do in Alaska
• How to See the Northern Lights in Iceland
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies

Tags: Travel , Alaska Vacations , Vacation Ideas

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10 of the best places in the US to see the northern lights this year

Posted: April 21, 2024 | Last updated: April 21, 2024

10 of the best places in the US to see the northern lights in 2024

Astronomers predict this year will be the best in the last decade to see the northern lights. We have the sun's current solar cycle to thank for the stronger aurora borealis in 2024. Scientists say the sun is hitting its "solar maximum," or the highest activity rate during its current solar cycle, meaning more frequent and brighter northern lights. The sun's energized particles hit Earth's upper atmosphere, which then scatter toward its north and south poles. The redirected particles are what we see as the dancing hues of green, yellow, and magenta across the sky.

There are a few things you should do to plan before your trip. Winter is typically the best season to view the northern lights because of its longer, darker nights. It's possible to take a solo trip to see the lights, but many people recommend going in a group or on a guided tour for safety, especially if you're in an unfamiliar place.

Before venturing out into the cold, dark night, be sure to check an aurora forecast to understand what will likely happen in the sky. You'll need to venture away from any strong sources of light pollution like cities. Finally, get comfortable and be patient! Sometimes the aurora is only visible for a few minutes; sometimes it'll go on for hours.

If seeing the northern lights has been on your bucket list, now could be the best time to make it happen. Though Norway, Finland, and Iceland are the usual suspects when chasing northern lights, you don't have to travel outside of the United States to do it. Many of the country's northernmost states have dark skies that give a good chance for seeing the aurora borealis.

Stacker used various sources to create this list of 10 of the best destinations in the United States to view the northern lights.

Fairbanks, Alaska

There are many reasons why Fairbanks, Alaska, is considered one of the best places in the world to view the northern lights. The most important reason is it's inside the "aurora oval," which sees a higher concentration of aurora lights. It also has many nights with clear skies.

Fairbanks is home to some of the world's best aurora forecasters at the Geophysical Institute of the University of Alaska Fairbanks . The season for viewing the lights in Fairbanks is from Aug. 21 to April 21. During that time frame, late August through early September usually have the best chances for viewing the aurora borealis while enjoying summer activities.

New Town, North Dakota

The nice thing about North Dakota is that if the aurora borealis is going to show up here, it will likely be visible across the entire state. The only things you'll need to ensure are clear skies and a low-light moon because sometimes a radiant moon can make the sky too bright to see the faint glow of the northern lights.

If you're looking for a nice vantage point to take in the night sky, Crow Flies High State Recreation Area near New Town, North Dakota, in the western part of the state, is an ideal place. The scenic stop overlooks Lake Sakakawea and gives an unobstructed view of the night sky. You could also chase the northern lights inside Theodore Roosevelt National Park near Medora, North Dakota.

Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier National Park in northwestern Montana's Rocky Mountains puts travelers just south of the U.S.-Canada border. It's a certified International Dark Sky Park, so light pollution won't get in the way of viewing the aurora. The national park has many ideal lookout locations, such as Lake McDonald, a popular destination for kayaking during the day. For those who prefer a less remote viewing party, The Northern Lights Saloon in nearby Polebridge, Montana, offers live music while you skywatch.

Aroostook County, Maine

The earliest written account of seeing the northern lights in Maine dates back to 1719. It described the colorful display as both dreadful and indescribable. Today, the aurora borealis still leaves people breathless, but thankfully they seem to enjoy it more than those who viewed it more than 300 years ago.

Aroostook County, Maine's northernmost county bordered by Canada, is one of the best places on the U.S. east coast to try to catch the northern lights. It has some of the darkest skies east of the Mississippi. Visit in September or October to ensure the dark skies are clear of clouds. For those who like to gaze at other natural wonders, the Aroostook National Wildlife Refuge is also a great place to birdwatch and spot other wildlife.

Newport State Park, Wisconsin

Nearly two hours from Green Bay, Wisconsin, the state's only dark-sky park sits on the edge of the Door peninsula. Late December through early March bring the best chances to see the aurora borealis during high auroral activity. Being on the shore of Lake Michigan gives viewers a better, unobstructed view of the northern horizon, which is important in catching the northern lights from the lower 48. People can also use the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's aurora forecast tool to get a 30-minute heads-up on whether the northern lights will be visible near their position in northern Michigan.

Upper Peninsula of Michigan

North of Wisconsin's Door peninsula is Michigan's Upper Peninsula, another ideal place to see the northern lights. The remote peninsula has hundreds of miles of shoreline along Lake Superior, making it easy to view the sky. If you find yourself in Michigan's Lower Peninsula instead, Port Crescent State Park and the Headlands International Dark Sky Park are good options. October, November, and April are the best months to see the aurora borealis in Michigan, although viewers have spotted it earlier in the fall and spring.

Duluth, Minnesota

It's safe to say spots all along Lake Superior are great for viewing the aurora in the lower 48 because Duluth, Minnesota, is another place that gives visitors a good chance to see the northern lights.

Duluth is to the west of Wisconsin's and Michigan's viewing areas but sits at roughly the same latitude, which means chances for seeing the northern lights go up when there's increased solar activity. Duluth has prime places to see the northern lights, including Hawk Ridge, White Sky Rock, and Little Stone Lake.

Idaho Panhandle National Forests

Go to the northernmost tip of Idaho for your best chance at capturing a glimpse of the aurora borealis. About 120 miles from Spokane, Washington, the Idaho Panhandle National Forests—which also cover small regions of eastern Washington and western Montana—are also a camper's and hiker's paradise. Check out Priest Lake for one of the best vantage points in the state. Add to the beauty of the lights by watching them both in the sky and their reflection on the lake.

If you'd prefer to stay a little further south, Heyburn State Park near Chatcolet Lake is also a great place for chasing the northern lights. Opt for a spot along the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes' bridge on the lake.

Utqiaġvik, Alaska

The northern lights are visible across most of Alaska. Still, those looking for a more adventurous journey may consider traveling to Utqiaġvik, the most northern community in the U.S. During the winter months, the sun sets on Utqiaġvik on Nov. 17. It doesn't rise again until Jan. 24, giving the small town 67 days of darkness, with only a little bit of sunlight shining on the horizon. That little bit of twilight means northern lights chasers will still need to wait for the night hours to see the celestial phenomenon. The aurora borealis typically isn't as strong in Utqiaġvik compared to Fairbanks since this small northern Alaska town is at the edge of the zone that tends to get visible lights.

San Juan Islands, Washington

The archipelago off the northwest coast of Washington State is known for many things: ferry rides, uncrowded beaches, and world-class whale watching. Stargazing may not be at the top of visitors' lists, but it should be, especially during the solar maximum. The islands have low light pollution and get more than 247 days of clear skies, giving it the perfect combination for viewing the northern lights. There's usually increased aurora activity in September and March, although there are several local reports of catching the northern lights year-round, including in midsummer.

Story editing by Carren Jao. Copy editing by Paris Close. Photo selection by Clarese Moller.

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