Alaska’s Captivating Top 10 Attractions That Leave a Lasting Impression.
Is a trip to Alaska still on your travel bucket list? If not, you should put it at the top of the list as soon as possible, we can guarantee you of that. Visiting Alaska will rank among your most memorable travel experiences.
There are lots of things to do in Alaska that allow you to explore the state’s indigenous history, enjoy breathtaking natural landscapes, and have incredible outdoor experiences. You should definitely plan to visit Alaska.
Whether you decide to travel by plane or boat, Alaska offers a plethora of thrilling vacation spots. There are fantastic tourist locations across the entire state.
It can be hard to see everything at once due to its enormity. Prior to your visit, make a list of the primary sights you hope to see. Let’s look at the top Alaskan attractions that you ought to plan for.
In This Post, We'll Cover
10. Alaska Native Heritage Center
One of the greatest sites to visit in Alaska to learn about the native cultures is the Alaska Native Heritage Center. Located in Anchorage, it contributes to awareness-raising and conservation efforts by educating people and sharing local culture.
With its opening in 1999, the cultural institute featured eleven of Alaska’s indigenous cultural groups. The displays aid in the preservation of specifics, such as the culture, language, way of life, and heritage. There are movie screenings and artifact exhibits within the facility.
When you visit, look at the calendar to see the daily live displays of singing and dancing. In the presentation hall, you can attend lectures and socialize with the locals.
Explore the exhibitions inside before moving outside to stroll along the designated walking pathways. You’ll make your way through a forested area to view real native homes that provide insight into their way of life.
A gift shop offering traditional handicrafts for purchase is located within the center.
Address: 8800 Heritage Center Dr, Anchorage, AK 99504
9. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve
When you visit Alaska, one of the most breathtaking views you’ll see is the gorgeous scenery of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. It’s a special location to witness glaciers and striking volcanoes coexisting in a huge wilderness area.
The largest national park in the country is Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. It is made up of 13.2 million acres, most of which remain undeveloped wilderness.
The second-highest mountain in Alaska, Mount St. Elias, is visible from the top on a clear day. It boasts the greatest concentration of glaciers and the biggest volcanoes in the state.
Take in the untamed scenery while enjoying outdoor activities. Although it’s a year-round resort, be aware that the winters can be bitterly cold. You’ll find amazing sights if you can endure the weather.
Visit a historic mine or go on a hike on the Hubbard Glacier by taking a shuttle from the tourist center. Numerous hiking paths wind across mountain passes, and paved roads are ideal for bicycling.
Address: Mile 106.8 Richardson Highway, Copper Center, AK 99573
8. Iditarod National Historic Trail
The history of Alaska will always include the Iditarod National Historic Trail. From the time of the natives to the early settlers, it was in use, and it is currently protected as a historical site. It offers a lot of landmarks for tourists to view and organizes a number of athletic events.
Routes make up the Iditarod National Historic Trail network. The primary highway connects Seward with Nome over a distance of over 1,000 kilometers. The main walkway has several pathways that lead to different locations.
The path was created by indigenous Alaskans who used it for trade. Because of its popularity, a number of settlements, camps, and trading posts were built to serve frequent visitors. Later on, during the gold rush, it served as a route.
Many of the historical sites can be seen by taking tours of the historic route. An annual sled dog race is one of the most prominent events that take place along the route.
7. Klondike Gold Rush National Historic Park
During the 1890s gold rush, many people moved to Alaska in the hopes of striking it rich. During that time, one of the most well-known towns was what is now Skagway.
The Skagway historic district and more than 20 other settlements make up the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park.
The historic area of Skagway, Alaska’s most popular park site, is where visitors will have an immersive experience and is also home to the visitor center. There are additional park areas in Canada and Seattle.
A fantastic place to start learning about the gold rush is the tourist center. It has old pictures on display and a documentary movie to watch. It holds ranger talks as well.
Explore the little town and take in the intact buildings that are now used as businesses, restaurants, and museums. Spending time in the district is like taking a tour through history.
Address: 291 Broadway, Skagway, AK 99840
6. Totem Bight State Historical Park
One of the finest ways to learn about Native American history in Alaska is to take a trek in Totem Bight State Historical Park. You will find historic native sites that date back to the 1800s and symbolize the culture and customs.
Situated close to Ketchikan, Totem Bight State Historical Park was formerly a fishing camp. The renowned totem poles were left behind when the indigenous people moved to other settlements and abandoned it. The location is preserved on the Historic Places of America National Register.
The park has 15 totem poles restored to the original state. The poles are adorned with ground-based human figures and spirit animals. There is also a native clan house on the property.
To get to each totem pole, visitors must travel through the surrounding jungle. Learn about the history of the aboriginal people and each totem by taking the time to read the information plaques.
Address: 9883 N Tongass Hwy, Ketchikan, AK 99901
5. Hubbard Glacier
You will feel insignificant when you listen to the Hubbard Glacier’s crackling sounds as it moves closer to the Gulf of Alaska. With stunning views of the glacial blue hues, it’s one of the most amazing locations to witness in Alaska.
Hubbard Glacier is a gigantic structure more than 75-miles long and includes portions located in two countries. It’s located in the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park in the US and the Kluane National Park in Canada.
On the continent of North America, it is the biggest tidewater glacier. It’s remarkable that the glacier is still moving given its size.
There are various methods to interact with the glacier. The most widely used approach is to go on a glacier cruise around the bay. As you cruise by, icebergs that have broken off from the glacier that are several stories high.
It’s also accessible via the national park. Shuttle busses are available for those who want to hike above the glacier.
4. Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve
Visit one of the final frontiers in the world at the Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve. It is the only park where the natural environment and animals reign supreme. It is the northernmost national park in the United States because it is completely situated above the Arctic Circle.
Despite being the second largest park in the US, it receives the fewest visitors due to its isolated position and chilly weather. Since there are no roads within the park, the only ways to get there are by plane or on foot from Fairbanks.
When you first arrive at the park, the expansive terrain will welcome you. There is a wide variety of species living in the enormous mountains and open fields, such as caribou, wolverines, bears, and more.
It’s one of the best locations in Alaska for nature immersion for visitors who can withstand the harsh weather.
While camping, hiking, and backpacking are allowed in the park, it is only recommended for independent travelers.
Address: Airport Road, Fairbanks, AK 99701
3. Alaska Railroad
Since Alaska is the largest state in the union, seeing it all in a single visit is practically impossible. Fortunately, taking a trip on the Alaska Railroad allows you to have a broad perspective of the breathtaking scenery. It’s among the greatest activities in Alaska for taking in the various landscape.
Alaska Railroad is a historic business that was established in Anchorage in 1903. Its routes support the flow of people and freight cargo around the state. It offers stops in popular cities and locations like Anchorage, Seward, Fairbanks, and more.
Travel on the Alaska Railroad is very common. Train trips are a popular way for tourists to see the sights and get between locations. Take a unique look at Alaska with this entertaining tour.
The Denali Star Trek is one of the most well-liked treks. Between Anchorage and Fairbanks, there is a 12-hour journey that includes a stop in Denali National Park. Private or coach automobiles are available for your travel.
Address: Anchorage, Alaska
2. Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum
When you visit the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum in Fairbanks, you might catch a glimpse of the past. It’s a great Alaskan destination for all ages, but especially for auto fans. You won’t find a collection like this at any other museum in the area.
Vehicles that were used to move settlers around the state are on display at the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum. More than ninety-five vintage cars predate World War II are part of its collection. Throughout the year, it stages the majority of the cars and rotates the remaining ones into the displays.
All of the classic cars on exhibit have been restored to their original state. You will see vintage model clothes to go along with the cars. You’ll view multimedia, including pictures and videos of the cars, as you navigate the displays.
To understand more about each car and its history, visitors can go on guided tours of the museum.
Address: 212 Wedgewood Dr, Fairbanks, AK 99701
1. Alaska Raptor Center
Alaska is home to many bird species. While birding is a popular activity in the outdoors, the Alaska Raptor Center offers up-close views of your favorite species.
One of the must-see sights in Alaska that contributes to the preservation of important birds for the local ecology is this one.
The Alaska Raptor Center is an animal rehabilitation facility located close to Sitka. It is employed in research, education, and bird population preservation. Apart from these uses, it’s a well-liked vacation spot with loads of entertaining things to do for people of all ages.
The center is home to hawks, owls, falcons, and eagles, among other birds. Most creatures were taken out of the wild. Until they are prepared to be released again or moved to zoos, they are housed at the center.
In a sizable field, guests can watch aerial displays and attend talks about various bird species. If you are unable to witness the birds in their native environment, it’s a great place to add to your schedule.
Address: 1000 Raptor Way, Sitka, AK 99835
