Alaska, United States: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Imagine being in the heart of America's Last Frontier, surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks and vast wilderness. Welcome to Alaska, a state full of experiences for every traveler. It offers breathtaking natural wonders, urban adventures, and cultural encounters that captivate the senses. But what are the must-do activities and top attractions for an unforgettable Alaskan adventure?

Key Takeaways

• Explore the awe-inspiring national parks of Alaska, including Denali, Kenai Fjords, and Wrangell-St. Elias.
• Embark on glacier cruises, witness the Northern Lights, and enjoy diverse wildlife-watching opportunities.
• Discover the rich Native American culture and history in Alaska's vibrant cities and coastal towns.
• Indulge in outdoor adventures like hiking, kayaking, dog sledding, and fishing for the renowned Alaskan salmon.
• Experience the natural beauty of Alaska's scenic drives, including the iconic Alaska Highway.

Exploring Alaska's Natural Wonders

Alaska's national parks and wilderness areas are full of stunning natural beauty. You'll find everything from huge glaciers to rugged fjords. Glacier Bay National Park and Kenai Fjords National Park are two top places to see the state's amazing landscapes.

Glacier Bay National Park

Glacier Bay National Park is in the southeastern corner of Alaska. It's a vast, untouched wilderness that draws visitors from all over. The park is famous for its glaciers that break off into the sea with a loud crash.

People can get close to this amazing sight by going on glacier cruises or kayaking in icy waters. Glacier Bay is also a great place for seeing marine animals like humpback whales, orcas, seals, and sea lions. Bird lovers can see seabirds like puffins and bald eagles flying over the coast.

Kenai Fjords National Park

Kenai Fjords National Park is near Anchorage and is a top spot for nature lovers. It's known for its beautiful coastal scenery. The park has deep fjords and cliffs that go straight down into the sea.

At Kenai Fjords, you can take boat tours to see the fjords and its wildlife, like seals, sea lions, and puffins. If you like hiking, there are trails that offer great views of the glaciers and the Alaskan wilderness.

"Alaska's national parks are a true testament to the power and beauty of the natural world." - National Park Enthusiast

Urban Adventures in Alaska

Alaska is famous for its vast wilderness, but it also has vibrant cities to explore. Juneau and Ketchikan are two cities that stand out. They mix history, culture, and natural beauty in a unique way.

Juneau

Juneau is Alaska's capital and a city full of charm and history. It sits between the Gastineau Channel and the Coast Mountains. Here, you can visit the Alaska State Museum to learn about the state's indigenous heritage.

Don't miss the Shrine of St. Therese, a peaceful spot with views of the Juneau Icefield. Also, the Alaska State Capitol is a landmark worth seeing. It shows off Alaskan architecture and government.

Ketchikan

Ketchikan is known as the "Salmon Capital of the World." It's a city you should visit. Walk along the lively waterfront to see historic Creek Street, once a red-light district area.

Experience the Alaskan Native culture and try the Alaskan cuisine, like fresh seafood. Ketchikan offers a real taste of Alaska, from totem poles to art galleries and stunning views.

"Alaska is not a state of mind, but a state of grace." - Adlai E. Stevenson

From Juneau to Ketchikan, Alaskan cities invite you on an urban exploration. They show off the state's rich Alaskan culture and heritage. These cities offer a unique change of pace from the wilderness, making your visit unforgettable.

Outdoor Activities in Alaska

Alaska's vast wilderness is perfect for outdoor lovers. It has everything from Denali National Park's high peaks to Misty Fjords National Monument's calm fjords. These places are ideal for many activities.

Hiking in Denali National Park

Denali National Park is a dream spot for hikers. You can explore valleys, mountains, and see wildlife on trails like the Savage River Loop and Mount Healy Overlook. These trails offer stunning views and chances to see Dall sheep, grizzly bears, and other Alaskan animals.

Kayaking in Misty Fjords National Monument

Kayaking in Misty Fjords National Monument is an amazing way to experience Alaska's wild side. You can paddle through beautiful fjords and see orcas, moose, mountain goats, and black bears. The scenery, with its high cliffs and waterfalls, makes this adventure unforgettable.

Alaska's outdoor adventures, from Denali's trails to Misty Fjords' waters, connect you deeply with nature. Whether you're experienced or new to hiking or kayaking, these activities will give you unforgettable memories. They'll also make you appreciate Alaska's natural beauty even more.

Alaska, United States: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Alaska is a place where adventure never ends. You can explore the stunning Alaskan wilderness adventures or take exciting glacier cruises. The rugged beauty of Alaska will amaze you. It's perfect for those who love wildlife watching or want to learn about Native American culture.

Denali National Park is a dream spot for outdoor lovers. Here, you can see North America's tallest peak, Denali, and the "Denali Big 5" animals like bears and wolves. For water lovers, Kenai Fjords National Park and its glacier cruises are a must. They let you see glaciers up close and marine life.

Alaska's cities are full of culture too. Visit Juneau and Ketchikan to dive into Native American culture. You can try Alaskan cuisine and learn about the state's history. For thrill-seekers, dog sledding tours and Northern Lights viewing are unforgettable.

Alaska has activities for everyone, from peaceful fishing excursions to thrilling Alaskan wilderness adventures. Get ready for an amazing journey and see the best of Alaska.

Scenic Drives in Alaska

The Alaska Highway

One of the top things to do in Alaska is taking a scenic drive. The Alaska Highway, also known as the ALCAN, is a top road trip choice. It stretches over 1,390 miles, showing off the state's vast and dramatic landscapes. You'll see towering mountains, pristine forests, and pristine lakes.

The drive can be tough at times, but the views are worth it. It's a must-do for anyone visiting Alaska. The Alaska Highway was made during World War II as a military route. Now, it's a popular spot for those wanting a scenic drive through Alaska's wilderness.

Travelers go through different landscapes, like the Rockies, the Yukon Territory, and Alaska's vast wilderness. You can stop in charming towns, hike to amazing spots, and see wildlife like moose and bears. It's perfect for adventure, beauty, or a peaceful break from daily life.

"The Alaska Highway is one of the most scenic drives I've ever experienced. The sheer vastness of the Alaskan wilderness, combined with the rugged beauty of the landscape, makes it an unforgettable journey." - Jane Doe, travel writer

So, if you're planning a trip to Alaska, make sure to include the Alaska Highway. It has stunning views, lots of wildlife, and a rich history. It's a road trip you'll always remember.

Cultural Immersion in Alaska

Alaska is more than just its beautiful landscapes. It's a place full of history and culture. You can explore historic sites and museums to learn about Alaskan culture. Or, you can dive into the traditions and arts of Native American communities for a deeper understanding of Alaska's heritage.

Trying local food is a great way to connect with Alaskan culture. You'll find dishes like fresh seafood and game meats. Enjoying a bowl of king crab or a plate of reindeer sausage is a memorable experience.

In Alaska's remote areas, Native American culture is alive and well. You can see traditional art like woodcarvings and weavings. Or, you can watch cultural performances that celebrate the heritage of the indigenous peoples. These experiences let you see the heart and soul of Alaska.

Exploring Alaska's cities, remote communities, or tasting local flavors can change you. Cultural experiences in Alaska will touch your heart and mind deeply.

Adventure Tours in Alaska

For thrill-seekers, Alaska is a paradise with adventure tours and activities. You can explore the stunning landscapes in an exciting way. Talkeetna is a top spot for adventure tours. Here, you can take flightseeing tours to see Denali National Park from above.

The Mendenhall Glacier near Juneau is another great place for adventure. You can hike to the glacier and see salmon swimming upstream. These tours let you see Alaska's stunning landscapes in a thrilling way.

Talkeetna

Talkeetna is a charming town at the base of Denali. It's perfect for adventure tours and activities. You can book flightseeing tours to fly over Denali National Park. These tours offer amazing views of the peaks and glaciers. They are highly rated and last about 5 hours.

Mendenhall Glacier

The Mendenhall Glacier is close to Juneau and a must-see for glacier viewing and adventure tours. You can hike to the glacier's edge and see salmon swimming upstream. The "Wilderness, Wildlife, Glacier Experience from Anchorage" tour is highly rated and lasts about 5 hours.

Coastal Towns in Alaska

Alaska's coastal towns show off the state's deep Alaskan history and lively Alaskan culture. They range from quaint fishing villages to historic cities. These coastal towns are perfect for anyone wanting to see the Last Frontier.

Homer

Homer is a beautiful fishing town on the Kenai Peninsula. It's a gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park. Visitors can walk along Homer Spit, check out local museums, and enjoy fresh seafood. All while enjoying the beautiful views of Kachemak Bay.

Sitka

Sitka was once the capital of Russian America. It's a city full of history and culture. The Sitka National Historical Park and the Sheldon Jackson Museum share the traditions of the Tlingit people. This gives visitors a deep look into the area's indigenous roots.

If you love nature or culture, Alaska's coastal towns are unforgettable. They offer a unique experience that will stay with you forever.

Wildlife Viewing in Alaska

Alaska's vast wilderness is perfect for wildlife watching. You can see grizzly bears in Denali National Park or humpback whales on glacier cruises. It's a paradise for those who love nature.

There are over 50,000 black bears and 35,000 brown bears in Alaska. Bear-viewing tours are a hit. You can see these amazing animals up close by plane or boat.

Alaska has a lot of bald eagles, with over 40,000. This is more than half of North America's total. Seeing these birds in the sky or by the water is unforgettable.

Denali National Park is great for seeing wildlife like wolves, moose, and bears. Day cruises along the coast let you see whales, seals, puffins, and more marine life.

You can see moose along the highways or watch the salmon runs. Alaska's wildlife is unforgettable. Whether you go alone or with a guide, it will leave a mark on you.

Northern Lights Viewing in Alaska

Alaska is a top destination for seeing the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis. The winter brings clear, dark skies perfect for the colorful lights in the night sky. It's a sight that amazes visitors.

Even in big cities like Fairbanks and Anchorage, you can see the Northern Lights. Fairbanks is a great spot, with a 90% chance of seeing the lights. It's just below the auroral band, offering dark skies and little light pollution.

For a better chance at seeing the Aurora Borealis, think about joining an Alaskan winter tour. Companies like Alaska Wildlife Guide and Borealis Basecamp offer tours. You can go ice fishing, dog sledding, or stay in clear-roofed igloos.

The best time to see the Northern Lights is from September to April. The peak viewing is between 10 pm and 2 am. This is when the skies are darkest, making it perfect for seeing the lights.

"The aurora is the most remarkable and beautiful phenomenon I have ever seen." - John Rae, Scottish Arctic explorer

The Northern Lights are a natural wonder but can be hard to predict. They depend on solar activity, cloud cover, and how close you are to light pollution. To see them, be ready to be flexible and patient. Use resources like the Aurora Forecast from the University of Alaska Fairbanks to help plan your viewing.

Conclusion

Alaska is a truly remarkable destination filled with diverse experiences for travelers. It boasts breathtaking natural wonders like glaciers, fjords, and national parks. Plus, it has vibrant cities and a rich cultural heritage. There's something for everyone, from outdoor adventures to scenic drives and wildlife viewing.

September is a great time to visit Alaska because it's cheaper for lodging, cars, and tours. You can see amazing fall colors and the Northern Lights. Plus, you'll get to enjoy Alaska's unique wildlife and beauty.

From Whittier's tidewater glaciers to deep-sea fishing and scenic train rides, the adventures are endless. This guide has given you all the info you need for a perfect trip to Alaska. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey to Alaska's best spots.