Things to do

Alaska is known as a summer destination, when the snow melts and the midnight sun rises high into the sky. While summer can bring a multitude of adventures, winter in Alaska is when this state truly shines. 

A common misconception of the Last Frontier is that wintertime is full of darkness and cold. While temperatures can plummet here and the sun does set early, winter is also the season when Alaska is at peak beauty, as fresh snow blankets the landscape and transforms Alaska into a paradise for winter enthusiasts. 

Anchorage is a treasure trove of family-friendly activities. Located in the heart of Alaska, Anchorage is perfectly situated to give every family a taste of the Alaskan experience, without straying too far from the comforts of a city. With wildlife encounters to outdoor adventures available just outside your doorstep, there is something for everyone in the family to enjoy when visiting Alaska’s largest city.

As someone who loves fishing and has visited Alaska several times for this purpose, I can confidently say that Alaska is one of the best places for fishing in the world. 

With its vast rivers, streams, lakes, and ocean coastline, the state offers a wide range of fishing opportunities for both casual and experienced anglers. But if you're planning a fishing trip to Alaska, you may be wondering when's the best time to visit Alaska for fishing.

Alaska is a wonderland for outdoor enthusiasts, offering breathtaking scenery, unique wildlife, and thrilling adventures that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. With its vast wilderness areas, towering mountains, sparkling glaciers, and abundant marine life, Alaska is a paradise for hikers, kayakers, climbers, fishermen, and wildlife watchers. 

One of the best ways to explore Alaska’s pristine coastal waters and spot diverse marine life is through a day out on the water in your own craft. Sea kayaking allows visitors to serenely explore off the beaten path at their own pace.

With numerous tours available throughout the state, you don’t need to be an expert paddler to explore the Alaskan coastline by kayak. In this guide, we’ll break down the best places to paddle, as well as top tour providers to help you explore the water safely. 

Alaska is a destination full of wonder, adventure, and endless beauty. As you prepare to embark on your journey, we've curated a list of the top 20 must-do experiences that promise to make your visit to Alaska truly unforgettable. From witnessing the Northern Lights to catching your first sockeye salmon, there is something for everyone in this vast and awe-inspiring land.

Top 20 Things to Do in Alaska

The Last Frontier is a land of unparalleled beauty, and at its heart lies the magnificent Denali National Park. As one of North America's most stunning natural wonders, Denali National Park offers a unique opportunity to delve into the rugged beauty of the Alaskan wilderness. Spanning over six million acres, this awe-inspiring destination is home to diverse ecosystems, abundant wildlife, and dramatic landscapes that are sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.

Every winter, thousands of visitors flock to interior Alaska to witness the sky come alive. The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, is one of the most spectacular natural phenomena on Earth, but is only visible at extremely northern latitudes. Much of Alaska falls within the realm that can see the lights, but some areas give you much better odds of catching Lady Aurora in all of her glory.

The easiest way to see a bear while in Sitka is at the Fortress of the Bear center.

The Fortress of the Bear is a rehabilitation center for orphaned and abandoned bear cubs. The bears reside in expansive enclosures that cover ¾ of an acre. These enclosures were constructed with salvaged wood from a local mill and are filled with lush vegetation, large rocks (which replicate their natural habitat), and ample bodies of water. 

Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor to the Last Frontier, the Mount Roberts tramway is a must-see stop on your Alaskan adventure. Located just minutes from downtown Juneau, the Tramway offers a thrilling ride up the mountain to enjoy an unforgettable vista of the Alaskan wilderness. While the ride itself is an adventure, the tramway also offers a variety of activities at the top, including hiking, dining, shopping, and learning experiences.