Top 20 Attractions In Alaska

 

 The Top 20 Attractions in Alaska

Do you have a trip to Alaska on your travel bucket list? If not, we're confident you'll want to move it to the top of your must-do list right now. One of the most unforgettable excursions you'll ever take will be to Alaska.

There are numerous activities in Alaska that allow you to enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings, learn about Alaskan tribes' native heritage, and participate in thrilling outdoor adventures. Alaska is a destination that you should not overlook.

There are many of great holiday places in Alaska, whether you're taking a cruise or flying there. Throughout the state, there are numerous fantastic tourist attractions.

Because of its immensity, seeing everything at once can be difficult. Make a list of the top items you wish to see during your trip before you go. Let's take a look at some of the greatest Alaska attractions to include in your travel plans.

1. Denali National Park & Preserve 

Alaska is home to some of the country's most beautiful national parks. Denali National Park & Preserve is a popular park named after Denali Mountain, North America's tallest peak. The park features a varied landscape with well-known natural attractions, wildlife viewing, and outdoor activities.

Denali National Park is a large park that spans over six million acres in Alaska's interior. It's mostly wilderness, with a pristine landscape. From glaciers to woods to valleys, you'll see it all.

Keep a look out for wildlife. It is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including bears, moose, Dall sheep, and other species.

The national park can be visited in a variety of ways. A shuttle bus, a boat, or a plane can take visitors on an overview trip. Hiking paths, glacier treks, and backpacking are all available for a more immersive experience.

Hiking up to the summit of Denali is an option for the more adventurous traveler. It's just as enjoyable to drive through the park while taking in the splendor of the snow-capped mountain.

2. Glacier Bay National Park 

Seeing enormous ice blocks drifting past you while riding through Glacier Bay National Park is a bizarre experience. With almost a half-million tourists seeking outdoor adventure, it is one of Alaska's most popular parks.

Glacier Bay National Park is a huge expanse of wilderness. The famed Johns Hopkins Glacier, one of the numerous glaciers still flowing, is located in the glacier-covered terrain. Glacier Park and Brady Icefield are two other natural wonders.

A cruise ship excursion is the most popular way to see the national park. As you cruise into the cold harbor, you'll be treated to stunning vistas of glaciers on either side of the ship.

Binoculars are recommended for spotting animals on the beach, such as seals, bears, and mountain goats. There will even be whales swimming beside the ship.

Hiking, camping, fishing, and kayaking are among the other popular activities at Glacier Bay National Park. Only few portions of the preserve are open to hunting.

3. Mendenhall Glacier

Mendenhall Glacier is one of Juneau's most easily accessible glaciers. You'll arrive at the monument that continues to influence the valley after only a short trip. The park has a visitor center with information about the glacier as well as a larger recreational area.

The vistas of the Mendenhall Valley and Mendenhall Lake, both carved out by the ancient glacier, are breathtaking. When you arrive, explore the visitor center to learn more about the glacier and its origin, as well as to see exhibits about the region's fauna. It has an observation deck with one of the best views in the city.

Mendenhall Glacier stretches for more than 13 miles. It's a disappearing glacier that can be hiked by the general public. Take a helicopter tour of the glacier and land on the summit for a unique perspective.

The recreational area offers a variety of enjoyable activities for people of all ages. Hike the Nugget Falls Trail to witness a beautiful cascade as well as wildlife.

4. Kenai Fjords National Park

The Kenai Fjords National Park, located on the Kenai Peninsula, is home to Alaska's largest ice fields. Explore the surrounding glaciers, wildlife, and more on an adventure trip through one of Alaska's top tourist destinations.

The national park is only accessible by one road. It's preferable to get there by boat or on foot. Aerial trips are also available from local firms.

The Harding Icefield is the national park's showpiece. Hiking the Harding Icefield Trail (HIT) provides an unforgettable experience. Although the hike is not easy, the sights make it worthwhile.

Exploring the national park on a day boat is a popular option. The trips take you on a sail through the bay to observe the scenery and fauna.

One of the most popular ways to see humpback whales and killer whales is to go whale-watching. Bears, moose, seals, and otters are among the park's other inhabitants.

Other well-known attractions include trekking Exit Glacier and taking a ferry to Fox Island.

5. Chugach State Park

Any season is a good time to visit Chugach State Park. Plan a journey to the park on your next trip to Alaska, whether you're looking forward to seeing the magnificent winter landscape or the colorful flora in the spring.

With nearly 500,000 acres, Chugach State Park is one of Alaska's largest. It is a famous tourist site because it is close to Anchorage. The park is noted for its beautiful scenery, and there are numerous trails available to explore the area.

Over 50 paths wind their way across the scenery of the state park, covering hundreds of miles. The Chugach Mountains and the Chugach National Forest are two natural landmarks in the area. Hiking and bike trails are available, some of which are multi-day journeys.

Flattop Mountain is a popular walk for those looking for a panoramic perspective of the park. Whitewater rafting, fishing, and kayaking are all available at Eklutna Lake. A picturesque drive is also an option.

6. Anchorage Museum At Rasmuson Center

Anchorage is one of Alaska's most popular destinations for learning about history, art, and culture. The Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center is one of the best sites to learn everything there is to know about Alaska. The vast museum features Alaskan art, history, science, and geology.

Since its inception in 1968, the museum has featured some of the best exhibitions on Alaska. There are both permanent and temporary exhibits.

Other displays showcase native cultures and display historical artifacts, clothes, and more. Visit the art galleries to see artwork created by local Alaskan artists.

It's easy to lose track of time when exploring the museum's exhibits. It's a family-friendly destination with interactive exhibits for children.

There are also many dinosaur and other prehistoric animal bones and fossils on display. This museum is a necessary companion to seeing the region itself, with geological exhibits as well as exhibits detailing the landscape's current flora and animals.

The structure also has a planetarium and a science center in addition to the displays. It's a location where you may learn while having fun.

Every first Friday of the month, the museum gives free entrance to all visitors.

7. Alaska SeaLife Center

If you're lucky, you'll see sea creatures in the wild, but you can also guarantee that you'll see your favorite marine animals by visiting the Alaska SeaLife Center. One of the most popular things to do in Alaska is visit the aquarium to learn about the local marine life.

The Alaska SeaLife Center is the best aquarium in Alaska for viewing the state's rich marine life. It also serves as a rehabilitation center for marine mammals and performs research to help preserve the animals' natural habitat.

Seals, octopuses, sea lions, otters, and crabs are among the aquarium's inhabitants. Live animals swim in the tanks, and you may learn about them by viewing exhibition displays.

A touch tank where you may pet sea stars and sea urchins is also available at the aquarium. Explore the aviary to learn more about the Alaskan marine birds.

The experience is self-guided, and you'll undoubtedly gain a lot of knowledge. It's a great site for people of all ages to come.

8. Museum At North UAF

The Museum of the North is one of the best places to visit in Alaska if you want to learn more about the state. It's on the main campus of the University of Alaska in Fairbanks. It delves into Alaska's cultural and environmental history.

Since its founding in 1917, the Museum of the North has gathered a vast collection of artifacts, artwork, specimens, and more. It houses around 2.5 million objects, which are displayed in both rotating and permanent exhibits.

The lovely building that houses the museum is the first thing you'll notice – it's a work of beauty in and of itself, and it provides stunning mountain vistas while you browse the exhibitions.

Native culture, natural history and landmarks, and Alaskan wildlife are all featured in the award-winning exhibitions. Everything on exhibit has been gathered from all throughout the state. Some of the artifacts have been around for millions of years.

The museum is free to the public and constantly welcomes visitors who want to learn more about Alaska's history.

9. Sitka National Historic Park

Sitka National Historic Park was established in 1972 and is Alaska's first park. It's also the tiniest, but you can be sure there will be enough to see and do during your visit.

The park's magnificent scenery and historical buildings are enough to draw over 100,000 visitors each year.

Visit the park's visitor center before you start exploring. You'll see a brief documentary about the park's history as well as Tlingit paintings and other items on display. The culture center, which includes active craftsmen, is a great place to learn more about Tlingit culture.

There are guided tours available, or you can explore Sitka National Historic Park on your own to view the famous attractions.

The site of the Battle of 1804 between the Russians and the Tlingit is one of the highlights. It's an open area with information on the war and a plaque identifying the Tlingit Fort's location.

Hike the Totem Trail to observe 20 totem poles that were originally displayed at the World Fair and have been relocated to reflect native culture.

10. Alaska Inside Passage

Cruise through the Alaska Inside Passage to see the stunning scenery of Alaska. For ships transiting the Southeast Alaska region, the passage is a well-known route. It's a popular destination for Alaska cruises and boat tours.

Many of the biggest cruise lines, including as Holland America Line, as well as local tour operators, provide tours across the region. You'll see an enormous coastline and over 1,000 islands as you cruise across the Gulf of Alaska and Puget Sound.

A large portion of the shoreline was covered by the enormous Tongass National Forest. You'll observe spectacular glaciers that influenced the landscape of the region. Many animals can be seen, including whales, sea lions, and other water creatures. Remember to glance up to observe eagles swooping over you.

Itineraries for cruises in Alaska's Inside Passage vary. Some include visits to well-known locations such as Juneau, Alaska's capitol, and Skagway, a gold rush town. There's a lot to see and do in this lively part of Alaska.

11. Alaska Native Heritage Center

The Alaska Native Heritage Center is one of the best sites to learn about indigenous traditions in Alaska. It is located in Anchorage and contributes to environmental awareness and conservation by providing education and promoting local culture.

The cultural institution first opened its doors in 1999 with the goal of highlighting Alaska's 11 indigenous culture groups. The displays aid in the preservation of features such as heritage, language, and way of life, among other things. There are artifact exhibitions and film screenings inside the facility.

When you arrive, look at the calendar to see if there are any daily dancing or singing demonstrations. In the presentation hall, you can meet the locals and listen to lectures.

After viewing the exhibits on the inside, step outside to one of the approved walking pathways. You'll go through a wooded region to view actual native homes and learn about their way of life.

A gift shop sells traditional items to take home from the center.

12. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve

When you visit Alaska, the magnificent terrain of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park will be one of the most beautiful vistas you'll witness. It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to watch opposing volcanoes and glaciers coexist in a wide environment.

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is the United States' largest national park. It spans 13.2-million acres, the most of which is undeveloped wilderness.

On a clear day, you can see all the way to the top of Alaska's second-highest peak, Mount St. Elias. It is home to the state's largest volcanoes as well as the most glaciers.

Outdoor recreation can be found in the rough landscape. It's a year-round resort, but the winters may be bitterly cold. If you can brave the elements, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views.

Hike on the Hubbard Glacier or see an old mine by taking a shuttle from the tourist center. There are numerous hiking trails through mountain passes, as well as paved roads for cycling.

13. Iditarod National Historic Trail

The Iditarod National Historic Trail will be a part of Alaska's history for the rest of time. It was used by Indians and early settlers alike, and it is now conserved as a historical landmark. It hosts a number of sporting events and has a number of tourist attractions.

The Iditarod National Historic Trail is made up of several routes. From Seward to Nome, the major road stretches for around 1,000 miles. Other paths branch off from the main path and lead to different locations.

Native Alaskans built the route, which they used for business. Several settlements, campgrounds, and trading posts were established to support frequent tourists as a result of its popularity. During the gold rush, it was later used as a route.

Many of the historical landmarks may be seen during excursions along the historic route. An annual sled dog race is one of the most noteworthy events that takes place along the route.

14. Klondike Gold Rush National Historic Park

During the 1890s gold rush, Alaska attracted a large number of early migrants hoping to strike it rich. Skagway, as it is currently known, was one of the most important settlements of the time.

The Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park encompasses the historic center of Skagway as well as more than 20 additional communities.

When visiting Skagway's historic district, Alaska's flagship location for the park and where the visitor center is located, visitors will get an immersive experience. There are also areas of the park in Seattle and Canada.

The visitor center is an excellent place to begin learning about the gold rush. There are old photographs on display, as well as a documentary film to watch. Ranger seminars are also held there.

Take a stroll through the small town to observe the surviving buildings that are now museums, stores, and saloons. Spending time in the district feels like wandering through history.

15. Totem Bight State Historical Park 

Hiking in Totem Bight State Historical Park is one of the best ways to learn about Native American history in Alaska. Local landmarks from the 19th century that represent the tradition and folklore can be found.

On the shore near Ketchikan, Totem Bight State Historical Park is a former fishing camp. Natives who relocated to neighboring towns abandoned it, leaving behind the distinctive totem poles. The National Register of Historic Places recognizes the location.

15 totem poles have been restored to their original state throughout the park. Human beings and spirit animals are depicted in the ground on the poles. There is also a native clan house on the property.

All of the totem poles are accessible via a hike through the forested area. Read the information plaques to learn more about each totem and the history of the locals.

16. Hubbard Glacier 

Listening to the Hubbard Glacier's crackling sounds as it moves closer to the Gulf of Alaska will make you feel small. It's one of Alaska's most incredible landscapes, with breathtaking views of the glacial blue hues.

Hubbard Glacier is a gigantic formation that stretches over 75 miles and is split between two countries. It is found in the US's Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Canada's Kluane National Park.

It is the continent of North America's greatest tidewater glacier. The glacier's enormity makes it difficult to believe it's still moving.

There are a few different methods to see the glacier. The most popular method is to go on a bay glacier cruise. You'll be cruising past icebergs that rise to numerous stories high from the glacier.

It can also be reached via the national park. It organizes shuttle buses for people who want to trek to the glacier's summit.

17. Gates Of The Arctic National Park & Preserve

The Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve is one of the world's remaining frontiers. There is no other park like it in the world where the scenery and wildlife reign supreme. It is the United States' northernmost national park, as it is entirely located above the Arctic Circle.

Despite being the second largest park in the US, it is the least visited due to its isolated location and freezing environment. Because there are no roads in the park, it can only be reached by flying or hiking from Fairbanks.

When you arrive at the park, you will be greeted by a vast landscape. Caribou, wolverines, bears, and other species can be found in the massive mountains and broad open fields.

It is one of the best spots to go in Alaska to be fully immersed in nature for those who are tough enough to tolerate the conditions.

Hiking, backpacking, and camping are permitted in the park, but they are only recommended for those who are self-sufficient.

18. Alaska Railroad

Because Alaska is the largest state in the US, seeing it all in one trip is practically impossible. Fortunately, traveling the Alaska Railroad allows you to have an amazing view of the stunning scenery. It's one of the greatest ways to view Alaska's unique landscape.

The Alaska Railroad is a historic firm that was created in Anchorage in 1903. Its routes help passengers and freight cargo move around the state. It makes stops in well-known cities and locations such as Anchorage, Seward, and Fairbanks, among others.

The Alaska Railroad is a famous tourist destination. Train excursions are available from many tour operators for sightseeing and transport between destinations. It's a fantastic tour that allows you to see Alaska in a different light.

The Denali Star trek is one of the most popular. The journey from Anchorage to Fairbanks takes 12 hours and includes a stop at Denali National Park. You have the option of riding in a private car or a coach car.

19. Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum

When you visit the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum in Fairbanks, you'll get a glimpse of the past. It's one of Alaska's most popular tourist destinations, especially for automotive enthusiasts. This attraction boasts a collection that no other museum in the region possesses.

The Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum displays automobiles that were used to transport settlers across the state. It has around 95 historic vehicles dating back before WWII in its inventory. It exhibits the majority of the cars and rotates the rest throughout the year.

All of the historic cars on exhibit have been restored to their original condition. Along with the vehicles, you'll witness model fashion from the time period. You'll encounter multimedia, such as movies and images of the vehicles, as you travel through the exhibits.

Visitors can learn about all of the different cars and their histories on guided tours of the museum.

20. Alaska Raptor Center

Many bird species can be found in Alaska. While birdwatching is a common pastime in nature, the Alaska Raptor Center allows you to get up up and personal with your favorite birds.

It's one of the must-see Alaska attractions that contributes to the conservation of important birds to the region's environment.

The Alaska Raptor Center is an animal rehabilitation facility located near Sitka. It's utilized for conservation, teaching, and research on birds. Apart from these functions, it is a popular tourist attraction with a variety of entertaining activities for people of all ages.

Eagles, falcons, owls, hawks, and other birds can be found at the center. The vast majority of the animals were rescued from the wild. They are held at the center until they are ready to be released or transferred to zoos.

Visitors can watch flying displays and listen to lectures about different bird species in a vast area. If you can't make it out into the wild to see the birds in their native habitat, this is a good stop to make on your itinerary.