Alaska is a vast and beautiful state, known for its rugged wilderness, stunning natural landscapes, and unique culture. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or history buff, there’s something for everyone in Alaska. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best places to visit in Alaska.
Best Places to Visit in Alaska
If you’re into breathtaking views or charming cities – Alaska is a great place to visit. Check out some of the top destinations in Alaska.
Denali National Park
Denali National Park is home to the tallest peak in North America, Denali, and offers some of the most spectacular scenery in the state. Visitors can hike through the park, take a guided tour, or even try their hand at mountaineering.
Kenai Fjords National Park
Located on the Kenai Peninsula, this national park is home to numerous glaciers, fjords, and wildlife. Visitors can take a boat tour to see the glaciers up close, go kayaking, or even try ice climbing.
Juneau
Alaska’s capital city is located in the heart of the state’s wilderness and offers a unique mix of urban amenities and natural beauty. Visitors can take a walking tour of the historic downtown, visit the Mendenhall Glacier, or take a scenic flight over the Juneau Icefield.
Anchorage
Alaska’s largest city is a great place to start your Alaskan adventure. Anchorage offers easy access to the state’s wilderness areas and has a variety of cultural attractions, including museums and art galleries.
Fairbanks
Located in the interior of Alaska, Fairbanks is known for its aurora viewing opportunities, hot springs, and dog sledding. Visitors can also take a trip to nearby Chena Hot Springs, where they can soak in natural hot springs and see the northern lights.
Sitka
Sitka is a picturesque coastal town located on Baranof Island. Visitors can take a walking tour of the historic downtown, visit the Russian Bishop’s House, or take a boat tour to see the local wildlife.
Skagway
This small town is located in the southeastern part of the state and was once a bustling gold rush town. Today, visitors can take a walking tour of the historic downtown, ride the historic White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad, or take a boat tour to see nearby glaciers.
Ketchikan
Ketchikan is known as the “Salmon Capital of the World” and is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. Visitors can also take a walking tour of the historic downtown, visit the Totem Heritage Center, or take a boat tour to see nearby fjords and wildlife.
Best Places to Eat in Alaska
When it comes to food in Alaska, there is no shortage of delicious options to choose from. From fresh seafood to locally-sourced game meat, Alaska has a unique culinary scene that reflects its natural bounty. Here are some of the best places to eat in Alaska:
The Hangar on the Wharf, Juneau
Located right on the waterfront, The Hangar on the Wharf is known for its fresh seafood dishes like Dungeness crab, halibut, and salmon. The restaurant also has a great selection of craft beers and offers outdoor seating with stunning views of the water.
Talkeetna Roadhouse, Talkeetna
This historic roadhouse has been serving up homestyle cooking since 1917. The restaurant is known for its signature dish, the “Roadhouse Stew,” which is made with beef, potatoes, and vegetables in a rich gravy. They also serve up delicious baked goods like cinnamon rolls and sourdough pancakes.
The Talkeetna Roadhouse will be reopening after significant repairs of it’s 106-year-old structure summer of 2023 – check in on their site for reopening news!
Tracy’s King Crab Shack, Juneau
If you’re a seafood lover, Tracy’s King Crab Shack is a must-visit. They serve up fresh king crab legs, crab bisque, and other seafood dishes using locally-sourced ingredients. The shack also has outdoor seating with beautiful views of the harbor.
Moose’s Tooth Pub & Pizzeria, Anchorage
This local institution is known for its craft beer and delicious pizza. They use fresh, locally-sourced ingredients to create unique pizza combinations like the “Avalanche” (topped with mozzarella, pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, and black olives) and the “Thai Pie” (topped with Thai peanut sauce, chicken, mozzarella, and carrots).
These are just a few of the many great dining options in Alaska. When you visit, be sure to explore the local culinary scene and try some of the unique and delicious dishes that Alaska has to offer!
Where to Stay in Alaska
When it comes to finding a place to stay in Alaska, there are plenty of options to suit every traveler’s needs and preferences. Here are some of the best places to stay in Alaska:
Denali National Park
For those looking to explore the beauty of Denali National Park, there are several lodges and hotels located within the park itself. These range from rustic cabins to luxury lodges, and offer easy access to hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and other outdoor activities.
Anchorage
Alaska’s largest city has a wide variety of accommodations, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Downtown Anchorage is a great place to stay if you want to be close to the city’s attractions, including museums, restaurants, and shopping.
Juneau
The capital city of Alaska is another great place to stay, with a mix of accommodations ranging from cozy bed and breakfasts to modern hotels. Stay in the downtown area to be close to historic landmarks, shops, and restaurants, or choose a waterfront hotel for stunning views of the water.
Girdwood
This charming small town is located about 40 miles south of Anchorage and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. There are several lodges and cabins in Girdwood that offer easy access to hiking and skiing trails, as well as breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Kenai Peninsula
The Kenai Peninsula is a great place to stay if you’re interested in fishing, wildlife viewing, or kayaking. There are several lodges and cabins located along the peninsula that offer access to some of the best fishing and outdoor activities in the state.
These are just a few of the many great places to stay in Alaska. When planning your trip, consider your interests and preferred activities, as well as your budget, to help you choose the best accommodation option for your needs.