If you’re planning a trip to Alaska, there are a few destinations you must have in your Alaska itinerary. From the beautiful city of Anchorage to the stunning St. Elias Mountains, this state has something for everyone. In this itinerary, we’ll outline 10 must-see spots in Alaska that will help make your trip unforgettable.
What Makes Alaska So Special?
Alaska is one of the most beautiful places in the world. The landscape is rugged, with mountains, glaciers, and forests. But what makes Alaska so special? Well, for one thing, it’s the only state in the US that is entirely located within a single country.
And Alaska has a lot to offer visitors – from nature experiences to shopping opportunities and much more. In fact, there are so many things to do in Alaska that it’s hard to know where to start!
10 Must-Visit Alaskan Towns
Alaska is an expansive and stunning state with many attractions to behold. If you’ve got the time and resources to move around, here are ten towns you should add to your Alaskan itinerary.
1. Juneau
Juneau is located on the eastern coast of Alaska and was founded in 1884. The city has a population of about 39,000 people and is known for its dramatic scenery, wildlife, and history. Some of the must-see spots in Juneau include Mendenhall Glacier, Misty Fjords National Monument, Haines Point State Park, and Ketchikan.
2. Anchorage
Anchorage is the most populous city in Alaska, and one of the most populous cities in the U.S. It is also the state’s principal commercial center, as well as its leading port on Cook Inlet. Anchorage has a population of about 300,000 people and is located on an inlet that comprises Lake Clark National Park and Preserve.
3. Fairbanks
If you’re planning a visit to Alaska, be sure to include Fairbanks on your itinerary. This bustling city is home to some of the state’s most iconic attractions, including the Alaska State Museum, the Fiske Planetarium, and the University of Alaska Fairbanks campus.
In addition to its rich cultural history, Fairbanks is also known for its outdoor activities, including skiing and fishing in nearby glaciers and mountain ranges.
4. Haines
Haines is one of the most scenic towns in Alaska. The town features a variety of shops and restaurants, making it a great stop on any itinerary.
Some of the must-see attractions in Haines include the Haines Museum, which showcases local history; the Glacier Point State Park overlook, which offers stunning views of Mount Fairweather and the surrounding area; and Jumbleberry Junction, a small town filled with quirky shops and restaurants.
5. Homer
Homer is a small town in southeast Alaska with a population of just under 1,000. It’s a great place to visit if you’re looking for some beautiful scenery and interesting history. Homer has been settled since the late 1800s, and it was once the largest town on the Kenai Peninsula.
The area is rich in natural resources, including coal, gold, and silver. Today, Homer is known for its fishing and tourism industry.
You can visit the local shops, galleries, and restaurants or take advantage of the many outdoor activities available in the area, including hiking, camping, fishing, skiing/snowboarding, kayaking/canoeing, and more.
6. Ketchikan
Ketchikan, Alaska is a great place to visit if you’re looking for an Alaska itinerary. The city is located on the eastern coast of the state and features many interesting attractions.
Some of these include the Ketchikan International Airport, which is one of the most popular in the state, as well as the Tongass National Forest, which spans over 1 million acres and contains a variety of habitats.
7. Kodiak
Kodiak Island is the largest and most northerly island in the Kodiak Archipelago. The island is 170 miles long and 50 miles wide, with a population of around 2,000 people. The terrain is mountainous and forested, with many lakes and streams.
There are few roads on the island, so visitors need to rely on air transportation or boat travel to get to Kodiak. The climate is cold and windy, and the winters can be very harsh.
8. Sitka
Sitka is an Alaskan town located on the eastern coast of the state and is known for its dramatic scenery and its incorporation into the United States in 1867. It’s also a popular tourist destination, with attractions including an active volcano, beautiful beaches, and world-renowned fishing.
9. Skagway
Skagway, Alaska is a bustling town with a quaint downtown area and plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained. The highlights of Skagway include its sensational view of the Chilkoot Pass, the Gold Rush era architecture, and the numerous shops and restaurants in the area.
Visitors can also take tours into the surrounding mountains or enjoy a day of skiing or snowboarding at nearby slopes.
10. Seward
Seward is a small town located in the middle of Alaska. It’s the largest city on the Kenai Peninsula and was once the most important port in Alaska. Seward has a rich history and is known for its fishing and shipbuilding industries.
It’s also home to The University of Alaska Seward Campus, which was founded in 1879. Today, it’s one of the largest universities in Alaska with more than 8,000 students.
There are many attractions in Seward, including museums, historic sites, parks, and galleries. If you’re visiting Seward, make sure to check out the Salmon Bake Festival and The annual Sun Dance performance.
What to Pack for a Trip to Alaska
If you’re planning a trip to Alaska, there are a few things you’ll need in your luggage. The weather can be very different in each town, so it’s important to have your appropriate clothing.
In addition, be sure to pack some sunscreen and insect repellent, as you may encounter both on your travels. Here are some of the essentials you’ll want to pack for a trip to Alaska:
- Sunscreen and Insect Repellent
- Appropriate Clothing
- Camera Gear
- Binoculars or a telescope
- Warm Clothes
- Cashmere Sweater or Jacket
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, a great Alaska itinerary would encompass incredible scenery, fascinating history, and abundant wildlife. Whether you’re planning a longer trip or just looking to add a few extra days to your existing trip, these five destinations will have you coming back for more.