Top attractions in Alaska

Why Visit Alaska

Alaska is a land of superlatives. It's the largest state in the union, home to the tallest peak in North America, and boasts more coastline than all other U.S. states combined. But beyond the sheer scale, it's the raw, untamed wilderness that captivates. It's a place where you can watch glaciers calve into the sea, see bears snatching salmon from a rushing river, and witness the ethereal dance of the northern lights. A trip to Alaska is an immersion into a world that feels both ancient and profoundly alive. Our team recommends it for travelers seeking genuine adventure, unparalleled wildlife viewing, and landscapes that defy description. From the rugged peaks of the Alaska Range to the pristine fjords of the Inside Passage, the state offers a staggering variety of experiences.

Top Destinations at a Glance

To help you navigate this vast state, we've compiled a quick-reference guide to some of the most compelling destinations. Whether you have a few days or a few weeks, these locations represent the best of what Alaska has to offer.

Best National Parks & Nature: An Alaska national parks guide

Alaska's national parks are the crown jewels of its wilderness. This Alaska national parks guide highlights the must-see parks, each offering a unique window into the state's diverse ecosystems. Denali National Park & Preserve is iconic, home to North America's highest peak and a sanctuary for grizzlies, moose, and caribou. For dramatic coastal scenery, Kenai Fjords National Park delivers with its tidewater glaciers and abundant marine life. Glacier Bay National Park is a masterpiece of ice and water, best experienced by boat. The immense Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, the largest in the U.S., offers rugged mountains and historic mining districts. Finally, Katmai National Park is world-famous for its brown bears at Brooks Falls. Wrangell-St. Elias has no entrance fee, though access often requires air or boat charters. The main visitor center in Copper Center is open year-round, with summer hours from approximately 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.

Cities & Cultural Highlights

While known for its wilderness, Alaska's cities and towns offer rich cultural experiences. Anchorage, the state's largest city, is a hub of activity with sites like the Alaska Native Heritage Center. During the 2026 summer season (May 10 to September 13), the center is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Summer admission for adults is $30. Juneau, the capital, is famed for the Mendenhall Glacier, where the visitor center is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the summer (May-September). The daily entry fee is typically $5 for those 16 and over, though a proposal to increase it to $15 was under review for 2026. Fairbanks is a gateway to the Arctic and a prime spot for viewing the aurora borealis. In Southeast Alaska, towns like Skagway and Sitka preserve the state's Gold Rush and Russian-American history.

Coastal & Scenic Spots

Alaska's coastline is a world of its own, with dramatic fjords, charming fishing towns, and incredible wildlife. The Seward Highway Scenic Byway from Anchorage is a stunning drive, leading to the town of Seward and the gateway to Kenai Fjords. From here, boat tours explore Resurrection Bay and its glaciers. Further south on the Kenai Peninsula, the Homer Spit juts into Kachemak Bay, offering fishing charters and art galleries. A drive to Hatcher Pass & Independence reveals breathtaking mountain scenery and the historic Independence Mine. For a guaranteed look at local fauna, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center provides a sanctuary for injured and orphaned animals. In 2026, the center is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. between May and mid-September, with general admission at $30 per person for ages 13 and up.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Alaska depends entirely on your goals. The peak season is summer (June to August), offering the warmest weather and longest days. The summer solstice on June 21, 2026, will bring nearly 24 hours of daylight to places like Fairbanks. In Anchorage, summer highs average around 65°F (18°C), while Fairbanks can reach into the 70s°F (21-26°C). This is the ideal time for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The shoulder months of May and September offer fewer crowds and lower prices, with the bonus of autumn colors in September. Winter (December to March) is for the adventurous. The winter solstice on December 21, 2026, marks the shortest day of the year. While cold—Fairbanks temperatures can plummet to -13°F (-25°C) or lower—it's the prime season for dog sledding, snowmobiling, and witnessing the northern lights.

Sample Itinerary: An Alaska road trip itinerary

For those looking to explore by car, a well-planned Alaska road trip itinerary is essential. Our team suggests a classic 10-day loop from Anchorage that covers many top attractions.
Day 1-2: Anchorage & South. Arrive in Anchorage, pick up your rental car, and explore the city. Visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center and walk the Anchorage Coastal Trail. Drive the scenic Seward Highway to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.
Day 3-4: Kenai Peninsula. Base yourself in Seward. Take a boat tour of Kenai Fjords National Park to see glaciers and marine wildlife. Hike to Exit Glacier.
Day 5: Drive to Talkeetna. Head north past Anchorage to the quirky town of Talkeetna, the base for Denali flightseeing tours.
Day 6-7: Denali National Park. Drive to Denali National Park & Preserve. Since private vehicles are restricted, book a bus tour to explore the park road and look for wildlife.
Day 8: Scenic Drive to Matanuska. Enjoy the stunning drive along the Parks and Glenn Highways towards the Matanuska Glacier.
Day 9: Glacier Exploration. Take a guided walk on the massive Matanuska Glacier. Drive through Hatcher Pass for spectacular mountain views.
Day 10: Return to Anchorage. Drive back to Anchorage for your departure. This Alaska road trip itinerary offers a fantastic mix of wildlife, glaciers, and mountain scenery. For more ideas, see our guide to Plan Your US Trip.

Practical Travel Tips

Planning a trip to Alaska requires some unique considerations. Our team has gathered these essential tips to ensure a smooth journey.
Reservations: Book accommodations, rental cars, and popular tours well in advance, especially for summer travel. This includes bus tours in Denali and bear viewing trips in Katmai.
Packing: Layering is key, regardless of the season. Even in summer, weather can change rapidly. Bring a waterproof jacket, comfortable hiking shoes, insect repellent, and sunblock. Winter visitors will need thermal layers, insulated outerwear, and warm boots.
Getting Around: A rental car is the most flexible way to see the road-accessible parts of the state. For remote areas, you'll rely on small planes (bush planes) or boats. The Alaska Railroad also offers scenic journeys between major hubs.
Wildlife Safety: Always maintain a safe distance from wildlife. Never feed animals. When hiking, make noise to avoid surprising bears. Carry bear spray and know how to use it.
Costs: Alaska can be an expensive destination. To manage costs, consider traveling in the shoulder season, booking accommodations with kitchenettes, and taking advantage of free activities like hiking. For more information, the official state tourism site, Travel Alaska, is an excellent resource.

Top Things to Do in Alaska

Beyond the major parks, a list of things to do in Alaska could be endless. We recommend flightseeing over Denali for a perspective on the mountain's immense scale. A day cruise in Prince William Sound or Kenai Fjords National Park offers close-up views of tidewater glaciers and marine life like whales and sea otters. For a cultural deep dive, the Alaska Native Heritage Center in Anchorage is a must. One of the top things to do in Alaska for wildlife lovers is a bear-viewing trip to Brooks Camp (Katmai National Park) or Lake Clark National Park. And, of course, no winter trip is complete without chasing the aurora borealis near Fairbanks.

A Guide to Alaska hiking trails

Alaska is a hiker's paradise, with trails for every skill level. This guide to Alaska hiking trails covers a few of our favorites. In Chugach State Park near Anchorage, the Flattop Mountain trail is a popular and rewarding climb with panoramic views. Near Seward, the Harding Icefield Trail in Kenai Fjords National Park is a strenuous but unforgettable day hike that ascends alongside Exit Glacier to a viewpoint overlooking the vast icefield. For a more moderate option, the Winner Creek Trail in Girdwood features a fun hand tram over a gorge. In Denali, trails near the park entrance, like the Horseshoe Lake Trail, offer beautiful scenery and the chance to spot wildlife without needing a bus permit. Exploring these Alaska hiking trails is one of the best ways to experience the state's grandeur up close.

Hidden Gems & Local Favorites

To truly experience the state, you have to explore some Alaska hidden gems. While Denali and Kenai Fjords draw huge crowds, consider a trip to the less-visited Wrangell-St. Elias National Park to explore the historic mining ruins of McCarthy & Kennicott. The drive down the McCarthy road is an adventure in itself. Another of our favorite Alaska hidden gems is the town of Valdez, surrounded by the towering Chugach Mountains and home to stunning waterfalls and glaciers. For a unique cultural experience, visit the small fishing village of Petersburg, known for its strong Norwegian heritage. These off-the-beaten-path destinations offer a more intimate glimpse into the spirit of Alaska.

Planning a family vacation Alaska

A family vacation in Alaska can create lifelong memories. For a successful trip, focus on accessible and engaging activities. The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is a guaranteed hit with kids, offering safe, up-close views of bears, moose, and wood bison. The Alaska SeaLife Center in Seward provides an educational look at the state's marine ecosystems. A ride on the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway from Skagway is a thrilling journey into Gold Rush history. When planning a family vacation Alaska, consider shorter scenic drives and booking family-friendly tours that can accommodate children's attention spans. Many towns also have excellent playgrounds and visitor centers with interactive exhibits.

FAQs about Travel in Alaska