alaska weekend trip

8 Perfect Weekend Trips to Alaska

Last Updated on January 11, 2024

Is a trip to Alaska on your bucket list? Do you always think “someday I want to go to Alaska?”. Friend, someday is NOW. Getting to Alaska is easier than you think and to prove it to you I have a whole list of perfect weekend trips to Alaska to share!

These trips are all three days long (with flying in the night before the first day, leaving Seattle in the evening). If you’re looking to plan a longer adventure in Alaska you can find all my ideas to plan your perfect longer Alaska itinerary here .

Weekend trips to Alaska are definitely easiest for those already living in or near Seattle. Flights to these Alaska destinations are 1.5-4 hours from Seattle. If you’re coming from somewhere else, you can still do this, you’ll just need to add on your flight time to Seattle (and you might need to do a red eye flight to make it work). Planning a trip to Seattle? Add on a few days and visit Alaska too!

Related : What to pack for Alaska , How to visit Alaska without a car , Alaska on a Budget

Hiking and Glaciers near Anchorage

Anchorage ski trip, fairbanks and denali national park, chasing the northern lights in fairbanks, hiking and whale watching in juneau, exploring glacier bay national park, fishing and exploring ketchikan.

• Off the Beaten path in Wrangell and Petersburg

Is three days enough in Alaska?

Yes! Also, of course not! Several weeks is not really enough time to see all of Alaska, but the key to enjoying a weekend trip is to minimize your travel around the state. Dive in to one area and make the most of it! Keep the travel simple so you can spend the time enjoying the experience.

Where can I spend a weekend in Alaska?

Truly, you can spend a weekend anywhere in Alaska. The most important thing to think about to ensure an enjoyable weekend trip is your travel time. My recommendations are all for nonstop flights from Seattle that take 90 minutes to 4 hours. A couple of these suggestions have a layover but it’s a short one with short flights involved. If you add in stopovers it takes much more time. These are the places that I enjoy going for a weekend and make for a really great short trip to Alaska.

• Best for : This is the Alaska that visitors have in their head, especially visitors from Seattle – hiking among high peaks with wildflowers and wildlife with epic views of fjords and glaciers! If that’s what you’re dreaming of, this is it! This is one of the best weekend trips to Alaska for hikers, but you could also replace most of the hikes with kayaking, or doing some of both. Another benefit of this option is the large number of nonstop flights between Seattle and Anchorage.
• Best month to go : June (May and July are also good – watch out for potential snow on hikes in May and crowds and more difficult lodging to find in July)
• Ground Transportation : Rent a car in Anchorage (car rental in Anchorage is expensive, consider an alternative like Turo)
• Where to Stay : If you’re looking for a hotel or vacation rental, look in Anchorage or Girdwood. If you’re camping, try the Seward municipal campground or the campground in Portage Valley.
• When to fly : Nonstop flights go between Seattle and Anchorage almost every hour! Plan an evening flight the night before Day 1 and fly home in the evening of Day 3 (or red eye if you want more time). Flight time is usually 3-3.5 hours.
• Day 1 : Explore the Portage Valley – there are plenty of options here, from hiking Portage Pass to taking a boat tour on the lake up to the glacier or walk the trail of blue ice. Make sure to stop at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. You could also do a kayak trip out of nearby Whittier this day.
• Day 2 : Take the 26 Glaciers cruise out of Whittier or the day boat tour of Kenai Fjords National Park that departs from Seward. Both tours are excellent and have lots of opportunity for seeing wildlife! If you still have energy, you can fit in another hike before a late dinner, either near Seward or Girdwood.
• Day 3 : Spend the day in Anchorage, go for a hike, or ride a bike or walk on the Coastal Trail. Visit one of the excellent museums and have lunch or dinner at 49th State Brewing before heading to the airport

Learn More : Things to do in Anchorage , Portage Glacier Day Trip from Anchorage

• Best for : Winter lovers and those who like an extra dose of adventure with their winter activities! Anchorage doesn’t have the best snow (it can be wet and icy like in Washington) but the views and the experience can’t be beat. This is a great option for both downhill skiing at Alyeska Resort in Girdwood (near Anchorage) or cross country skiing. There are lots of places to cross country ski in Anchorage, and if there isn’t enough snow or it’s too icy, try Hatcher Pass.
• Best month to go : February – Early in the winter is very dark and can be very cold. By February the days are a bit longer but there should still be good snow. Early March is often good too.
• Ground Transportation : Rent a car in Anchorage
• Where to Stay : Hotel or vacation rental in Anchorage or Girdwood
• When to fly : Fly to Anchorage the night before Day 1, fly out the evening of Day 3. You could also fly in early on the morning of Day 1.
• Day 1 : Head to Alyeska Resort. When conditions are good, this is truly incredible skiing with a unique and breathtaking view. Join the crowd for excellent pizza at Chair 5 after.
• Day 2 : Spend another day at Alyeska, of if you’d like to try cross country skiing, head to one of Anchorage’s excellent cross country ski areas.
• Day 3 : Have breakfast at the legendary (and long wait) Snow City Cafe and head out to Hatcher Pass, a stunning location year round near Palmer outside of Anchorage. Here you can snowshoe or ski among giant mountains with distant views to the ocean and explore the historic independence mine. Head to the airport in the evening.

2024 Note: The Denali Park Road closed at Milepost 42 (Polychrome Pass) in August 2021. The park service has announced that the road will remain closed at this point at least through the 2024 season. A permanent fix to this section of road is currently being built. Bus tours will still operate up to that point. Eielson Visitor Center and Wonder Lake will not be accessible.

• Best for : This is the shortest and easiest way to get to Denali National Park, which is only a two hour drive from Fairbanks (at least four hours from Anchorage). Fairbanks is also an awesome town to visit. This is makes it one of the best weekend trips in Alaska!
• Best month to go : June (for the midnight sun and better weather or early September (for incredible fall colors in Fairbanks, Denali and on the drive as well as less people in Denali and a chance to see the Northern Lights!)
• Ground Transportation : Rent a car in Fairbanks, or take the Alaska Railroad from Fairbanks to Denali and back.
• Where to Stay : Hotel or vacation rental in Fairbanks, hotel or camping in Denali. Note about Denali – be prepared for very high lodging prices and not getting a lot for what you pay. You can do a day trip to Denali from Fairbanks, but if you want to take the bus tour (highly recommended!) you’ll want to stay in Denali at least the night before.
• When to fly : Fly into Fairbanks the evening before Day 1, get a nonstop flight from Seattle. Fly out of Fairbanks late in the evening on Day 3 (or red eye). Flying time between Seattle and Fairbanks (nonstop) is usually 3.5-4 hours.
• Day 1 : Get a breakfast sandwich and coffee from Sunrise Bagel and explore the trail along the river in downtown Fairbanks. Check out one of the excellent local breweries and visit the University of Alaska Museum of the North and the Musk Ox farm. Drive to Denali, stopping in Healy at 49th State Brewing for dinner.
• Day 2 : Do the bus tour of Denali National Park. It’s a long bus day, but trust me, totally worth it! Go as long as you can stand it, the further you go the better your chance of seeing the most wildlife, especially bears and caribou. Take the shuttle bus instead of the narrated tour and get off and go for a hike anywhere you like. When you return to the entrance area, visit the dog kennels or hike Mt Healy for incredible views. Both the dog kennels and Mt Healy can also be done when you arrive the night before or before you leave in the morning.
• Day 3 : Return to Fairbanks if you didn’t do that last night and head out to Chena Hot Springs for a relaxing soak and a beautiful drive with an excellent chance to see moose. Have dinner at the local favorite Turtle Club on your way back to the airport.

Learn More : Things to do in Fairbanks , Denali National Park Guide

• Best for : If the Northern Lights is on your bucket list, don’t put it off, do it now! This is one of the best weekend trips to Alaska to plan at the last minute based on the weather and northern lights forecast . It works especially well if you have Alaska airlines miles, but you can still get some reasonable deals on flights this time of year. While you’re waiting for the lights to come out, there are tons of fun winter things to do during the day and some wonderful hot springs to soak in. Don’t plan activities early in the morning so you can also get some sleep after your late night aurora chasing!
• Best month to go : Late February and early March – Fairbanks is bitterly cold in the winter, with many days colder than 40 degrees BELOW zero. By late winter, there are more hours of daylight (but still plenty of hours of darkness for Aurora viewing) and while it will still be very cold it’s manageable with the right gear. This is also usually a time with clear weather.
• Ground Transportation : Rent a car – this is especially important so you can drive around late at night and look for northern lights!
• Where to Stay : Hotel or vacation rental in Fairbanks (you can also stay at Chena Hot Springs)
• When to fly : Fly into Fairbanks the evening before Day 1, get a nonstop flight from Seattle. Fly out of Fairbanks late in the evening on Day 3 (or red eye). Flying time between Seattle and Fairbanks (nonstop) is usually 3.5-4 hours
• Day 1 : Get breakfast at Sunrise Bagel and give cross country skiing a try at one of the many fantastic trail systems in the Fairbanks area. Try some local craft beer afterwards and have dinner downtown at Lavelle’s Bistro. In the evening, head to the incredible ice art competition ice park and check out the amazing ice sculptures lit up at night. After that, grab a good book or your favorite show and a hot drink and start waiting for the northern lights to come out. When you get tired, set your alarm for 1am and then get up and look again.
• Day 2 : Sleep in, then get breakfast at Sunrise Bagel again, or Alaska Coffee Roasters. Head out Chena Hot Springs road, keeping an eye out for moose along the way. Take a long soak in Chena Hot Springs and make sure to take the tour of the ice hotel and get the appletini in an ice glass. Grab dinner at Two Rivers Lodge or the Turtle Club on your way back to town. Repeat the evening aurora watch!
• Day 3 : Sleep in and maybe today you only make it up for lunch, which means you had an awesome night of aurora watching…you go! Have lunch at the Cookie Jar (they have food, not just cookies) and then try out a new winter activity such as dog sledding, ice fishing, walking with reindeer or snowmachining. There are plenty of options to try each of these unique winter sports. I also recommend a walk at Creamer’s Field which is beautiful in winter and has trails you can explore even without skis. Head to the airport in the evening (or take the red eye so you can spend more time looking for auroras!)

Learn More : How to see the Northern Lights in Alaska , Why March is the Best time to visit Fairbanks

• Best for : This is another wonderful weekend getaway for hikers or kayakers or anyone who likes wildlife. Juneau also has excellent food and is a wonderful town to visit. There are lots of cruise ship tourists, but it’s easy to avoid crowded places.
• Best month to go : Late May – July. Juneau is a very rainy place all summer, but early summer is a bit drier than later in the summer and a better time to visit for outdoor activities.
• Ground Transportation : Rent a car or walk and take public transit. This is really a matter of convenience. You can definitely get around Juneau without a car, but if you want to get places fast you might appreciate a car.
• Where to Stay : Hotel or vacation rental, there are also good places “out the road” for camping
• When to fly : There are multiple nonstop flights per day to Juneau from Seattle, fly in the night before Day 1, or early in the morning of Day 1. Fly out the evening of Day 3. Flight time from Seattle is 2-2.5 hours.
• Day 1 : Have breakfast at the Sandpiper and hike or take the tram to Mt Roberts and then explore further up the trails above the tram. Switch this out for another day on your trip to get the best weather. Try the delicious concoctions at the Amalga Distillery downtown and have dinner at the Hangar. Make sure to see the amazing whale sculpture downtown.
• Day 2 : Take a whale watching or kayak trip in the morning and explore another trail in the afternoon. I recommend heading over to Douglas Island and hiking the flat trails around the old mine and sandy beach. Have dinner at the Island Pub (get pizza!) after.
• Day 3 : Head out to the Mendenhall Valley and visit the Mendenhall Glacier. The visitor center is excellent and there are many wonderful hiking trails. I recommend the short and flat hike to Nugget Falls, which is a thundering waterfall in view of the glacier. If time permits, drive out the road to the Shrine of St Therese or stop at the Alaskan Brewery. Have lunch or dinner at Suwanna Thai Cafe or Zelda’s Bistro before heading to the airport.

Learn More : Things to do in Juneau

• Best for : National Park lovers, wildlife lovers and those who like solitude! Most visitors to Glacier Bay come on a cruise ship and never go on land, but if you travel there on your own you’ll get to see so much more! Hiking, kayaking, learning about Huna Tlingit culture and the fantastic day boat tour are a few highlights of this weekend adventure. This is one of the best weekend trips to Alaska for solitude and exploring a remote area.
• Best month to go : June
• Ground Transportation : Bus or taxi from Gustavus to Bartlett Cove; walking, tour boat or kayaking once in the park
• Where to Stay : The Glacier Bay Lodge is the only overnight accommodation available in the park. There are other vacation rentals and lodges in Gustavus, if you choose to stay there make sure you can get a ride to the park. The Bartlett Cove Campground is free and is one of the best campgrounds I’ve ever stayed in. You’ll need to bring all your own food with you or eat your meals at the lodge.
• When to fly : There are multiple nonstop flights per day to Juneau from Seattle and the flight to Gustavus from Juneau is about half an hour on a small plane. You can also take the ferry, but you’ll need to fly on a short weekend itinerary. You can do the whole trip the night before Day 1, or you can fly to Juneau the night before and stay the night there before flying to Gustavus. You can also do the whole trip the morning of Day 1. Depart Gustavus late afternoon or evening on Day 3 and then fly from Juneau to Seattle.
• Day 1 : Enjoy your coffee and breakfast on the covered deck of the lodge (I recommend this even if you’re camping). Take a walk on the beach and check out the tidepools and visit the beautiful Huna Tribal House and the nearby whale skeleton. Hike the Bartlett River trail or the more strenuous and remote Bartlett Lake Trail.
• Day 2 : Take the Day boat tour to the head of Glacier Bay and see multiple tidewater glaciers as well as lots of wildlife (note: if you don’t take the day boat tour you will not actually see the glaciers and also the boat tour is amazing).
• Day 3 : Do a half or full day kayak trip (guided or renting the kayak) around the Beardslee Islands before heading to the airport.

Learn More : How to visit Glacier Bay National Park

• Best for : Ketchikan is really close to Seattle. This is one of your best bets for weekend trips to Alaska because it’s so convenient! Ketchikan also has wonderful local shops, food, hikes and tours and is a fantastic place to do a fishing charter for salmon or halibut. There are lots of cruise ship tourists, but it’s easy to avoid crowds by exploring on your own.
• Best month to go : May-September. Anytime in the summer season is a good time to go. If you’re for a specific kind of fishing experience, contact your fishing charter about the best times to go. Ketchikan is very rainy all summer so it’s important to be prepared for rain! Earlier in the summer is generally dryer than later, but it’s quite rainy anytime.
• Ground Transportation : Walking or public transit
• Where to Stay : Hotel or vacation rental in downtown Ketchikan
• When to fly : The flight from Seattle to Ketchikan is short (1.5-2 hours) so you can either fly in the night before Day 1 or the morning of Day 1. Depart the evening of Day 3.
• Day 1 : Have breakfast at Sweet Mermaids and spend some time in downtown Ketchikan, taking in the shops of Creek Street with lots of local art. Check out the Totem Heritage Center and then head out to Totem Bight Historical park or Saxman, both of which have lots of beautiful Totem Poles. In the afternoon, take a hike on the Rainbird Trail for a mellow forest hike, or for a challenging hike head up to Deer Mountain for amazing views.
• Day 2 : Spend the day on a fishing charter catching fish and seeing amazing scenery and wildlife, have dinner at Diaz Cafe or Annabelle’s.
• Day 3 : Spend another day fishing or take a boat trip to Misty Fjords National Monument before heading to the airport

Learn More : Things to do in Ketchikan

Off the beaten path in Wrangell and Petersburg

• Best for : Want to experience Alaska and not see many other tourists? Then this is the trip for you! It’s also excellent to see wildlife or go fishing. You can also go to either Wrangell or Petersburg for a weekend, this itinerary combines the two.
• Best month to go : June, July
• Ground Transportation : Walking or taxi
• Where to Stay : There are limited options for hotels and vacation rentals in both Wrangell and Petersburg but both towns have several good ones.
• When to fly : There is one jet flight a day that starts in Seattle, stops in Ketchikan and then Wrangell and then Petersburg. Take the flight north on Day 1 (arriving in Wrangell at 10:30am) and then the return flight south from Petersburg in the mid afternoon. If you decide to just visit one town, you’ll be on the same flight schedule. Flight time from Seattle to Wrangell is 3-3.5 hours (including some time on the ground in Ketchikan). Flight time from Petersburg to Seattle is 4-4.5 hours (including some time on the ground in Wrangell and Ketchikan).
• Day 1 : Depart Seattle early and arrive in Wrangell mid morning. Get breakfast at the Stik Cafe and then spend some time walking around town and checking out Petroglyph Beach (try to time it for low tide). Visit the excellent Wrangell Museum as well as the Chief Shakes Tribal House and Totem Park. Head up to the Mt Dewey Overlook for a short but steep hike with amazing views, or out to the road to Rainbow Falls, a beautiful rainforest hike with a gorgeous waterfall. Have dinner at Marine Bar (great pizza).
• Day 2 : Take a tour boat to explore the unique and beautiful Stikine River, looking for wildlife all along the way. Some tour companies will stop in Petersburg on the way back, so you might be able to use your tour for transportation to Petersburg. You can also fly on a jet or a small plane or take the ferry to Petersburg. Once you arrive in Petersburg, spending some time exploring town and have dinner at the Beachcomber.
• Day 3 : Head to the Salty Pantry for a delicious breakfast and then take a tour boat out to LeConte Glacier (I recommend Seek Alaska Tours ). In addition to epic icebergs and waterfalls, there’s an excellent chance to see seals and whales on this trip. Fly out on the jet in the afternoon, arriving in Seattle in the evening.

Learn More : Things to do in Wrangell , Things to do in Petersburg

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• Last Updated On
• September 5, 2023

19 Best Weekend Getaways in Alaska — Quick Trips!

Avid nature lovers and adventure seekers will surely find their bliss in Alaska.

Nicknamed “The Last Frontier”, this state satisfies visitors with its majestic landscape, lush forests, sweeping mountains and rugged coastlines.

What’s more, it features the dazzling lights of the Aurora Borealis, a perfect backdrop for a memorable trip.

And, if you want to escape the humdrum and hustle-bustle of everyday life, there are many gorgeous and unique weekend vacation spots in Alaska to visit .

Whether you want a quiet, relaxed time with your partner or a weekend of outdoor action and adventure, Alaska has you covered.

So, start your unforgettable journey to this state by checking out our list of the best weekend getaways in Alaska below.

1. Denali National Park

Parks Hwy, Denali National Park and Preserve Denali Park, AK, 99755

Located in the heart of Denali Mountain, the Denali National Park is among the top weekend getaways in AK.

If you’re a nature and animal lover, then a visit to the Denali National Park is a must do.

Spread across 6 million acres, the park is home to more than 200 species of animals and birds and stunning flora.

If you want to experience the park’s wildlife and scenic beauty, the best way is to take a guided bus tour.

There are plenty of things to do at the Denali National Park.

You can do a flightseeing tour, go dog sledding or snowshoeing, view the wildlife, visit the Murie Science and Learning Center for an educational experience, or the Wilderness Access Center to get a history lesson and information about the park, go kayaking, rafting, hiking or mountain biking.

Seward, AK 99664 (907) 224-8051

A small town located below the grand Mount Majestic, in the Gulf of Alaska; Seward is one of the top destinations in Alaska for wildlife viewing.

This little harbor town has a lot to offer, making it the perfect spot for a weekend getaway.

You can hike the 5-mile coastal trail and ride horseback to view the Turnagain Arm shorelines, the many waterfalls, soaring peaks of the Chugach mountains, glimmering lakes and blue-tinted glaciers and on the way, keep a lookout for Arctic terns, bald eagles, moose and bears.

Paddle to the Resurrection Bay or simply stand on the shores and try to spot orcas, humpback whales, porpoises, harbor seals, sea lions, otters and other sea creatures.

The other things you can do while you’re in this little town are to visit the deep glacial lakes, the Harding Icefield, Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska Railroad, Alaska Sealife Center, go fishing for trout or halibut, go hiking, take part in a dog sled race, take a glacier and wildlife cruise and a small plane tour.

3. Alyeska Resort, Girdwood

1000 Arlberg Ave Girdwood, AK 99587 (800) 880-3880

One of the top resorts and romantic getaways in Alaska, the Alyeska Resort is a wonderful weekend getaway with your partner.

The chateau-style luxury hotel is surrounded by the majestic Chugach Mountain peaks and lush forest.

The remote location of the Alyeska Resort makes it a fantastic spot to view the multicolored northern lights.

The resort is situated below a ski mountain, which allows you to go cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, skijoring, on snowmobile tours and dog sledding.

And, once you’re done with all the adventurous activities, you can simply relax in the resort’s saltwater pool or indulge in a nice hot stone massage.

So, if you want a getaway with some adventure and plenty of peace, quiet and relaxation, then the Alyeska Resort is the perfect one for you.

4. Kodiak Island

Kodiak, AK 99615-6398 (907) 486-9300

Alaska vacations are incomplete without fishing and if you are an ardent fishing enthusiast, then a getaway to Kodiak Island is a definite must-do.

Apart from fishing for trout, salmon and halibut, Kodiak Island, the 2nd largest island in the US, has the Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge, which is home to around 3,500 brown bears.

The island’s stunning coastline and lush landscape offer a plethora of opportunities for whale watching, fishing, kayaking, backcountry camping and wildlife viewing.

The island is home to many state parks that offer plenty of outdoor and adventure activities such as hiking, camping, fishing and lots more.

Recommended Hotel: Zachar Bay Lodge

5. Glacier Bay National Park

Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve Gustavus, AK 99826 (907) 697-2230

If you want to spend your weekend with your kids or have a romantic time with your partner spotting whales, then a trip to the Glacier Bay National Park is a great idea.

Part of the 25-million-acre World Heritage Site, Glacier Bay National Park is spread across 3.3 million acres and is among the largest protected areas on the globe.

A wonderful place to see mammoth icebergs, the park is also a hotspot where you can watch humpback whales creating huge bubble fishnets to catch herring, leaping very high into the air, expelling vaporized air at around 300 miles an hour, all of which are truly breath-taking once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

During the summer months, the Glacier Bay National Park is a great place to see brown, black and blue glacier bears, mountain goats, wolves, moose, Sitka blacktail deer and bald eagles.

Recommended Hotel: Travelodge by Wyndham Juneau

Related: Family Beaches in Alaska

Homer, AK 99603 (907) 235-8121

A charming and quirky little town on the Kachemak Bay shores in South Central Alaska, Homer is also known as the Halibut World Capital.

Popular for its breath-taking nature, coastlines and tranquil beaches, Homer is a wonderful option for weekend trips in Alaska.

There is plenty to do in this little town apart from fishing.

You can enjoy the art galleries, live theater, music venues and restaurants, do some shopping, visit the Pratt Museum, Kilcher Homestead Living Museum, Bunnell Street Arts Center, Bishop’s Beach Park, Homer Spit and more.

If you’ve had your fill of exploring the town, then you can lay on the Bishop’s Beach and relax or head out into the scenic wilderness by following one of the many hiking or biking trails, kayak across the Kachemak Bay or take a boat tour for some marine life viewing.

Recommended Hotel: Best Western Bidarka Inn

7. Chena Hot Springs Resort

17600 Chena Hot Springs Road Fairbanks, AK 99712 (907) 451-8104

Running out of romantic Alaska vacation ideas?

Nothing can beat an escape to the Chena Hot Springs Resort, one of the top resorts in Alaska, where you can completely unwind and relax in a luxurious ambiance.

The 100-year-old resort in Fairbanks has beautiful traditional Alaskan-style rooms that are beautifully appointed.

At the Chena Hot Springs Resort, you can have the unique experience of soaking in an outdoor hot spring with your lover surrounded by pristine snow and if you’re lucky, you may even witness the gorgeous northern lights in the skies.

And, if you want a change of scenery, you can just move indoors and enjoy the resort’s amenities including the hot tubs, heated indoor pool, the massage center, lounge and restaurant.

You can also check out various outdoor activities such as a horse sleigh ride, dog sled ride, go flight-seeing over the wilderness or even visit the nearby Ice Museum.

8. Ketchikan

Ketchikan, AK 99901 (907) 225-6166

Located in the 17-acre Tongass National Rainforest, Ketchikan is situated at the south end of Alaska.

Backed by the Deer Mountain and facing the Tongass Narrows waterway, the city hangs over the bluffs along the 31-mile coastline.

The little Alaskan town has a lot of things that you can do along with your kids right from wildlife tours to exploring the cultural attractions.

A floatplane flight trip over the Misty Fjords and spotting whales and sea lions from above is sure to make your vacation a memorable one for your family or you can take a wildlife tour to view bears and bald eagles.

You can visit the Totem Heritage Center and see the largest display of totem poles in the world, the Alaskan Rainforest Sanctuary, Totem Bight State Historical Park, Saxman Native Village, Tongass Historical Museum, Main Street Gallery, and lots more.

Known as the “salmon capital of the world,” Ketchikan is famous as a fishing spot or you can indulge in other outdoor activities such as hiking, zip-lining, whale watching, flightseeing, etc.

Recommended Hotel: The Landing Hotel

Nome, AK 99762 (907) 443-6663

Situated at the southernmost end of the Seward Peninsula, Nome is the place to visit if you love adventure.

With a blend of native culture, rich history, stunning scenery, amazing wildlife, sporting events and rugged adventure, Nome is an exciting destination for a getaway.

Plan your trip so that you can witness the famous Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, which starts in Anchorage and ends 8 days later in Nome.

You can drive down the winding roads through the mountains, tundra and plains and see the gold rush artifacts on the way, view the wildlife such as reindeer, musk ox, moose, bears, fox, wolves, beavers, shrews, voles and several species of birds, among other animals.

You could drive through or hike the numerous trails in the Bering Land Bridge National Park or fish in the Bering Sea, rivers and streams flowing through the city in summer.

Recommended Hotel: Kota’s Bed N Breakfast

Related: Family Vacations in Alaska

10. Anchorage

Anchorage, AK 99501 (907) 257-2363

The largest city of Alaska, Anchorage is a must-visit getaway that is framed by the majestic Chugach Mountain Range in the background.

The bustling city has plenty of attractions that you will love to experience with your family.

Popular for its stunning mountains, glaciers, wildlife and scenic beauty, Anchorage has plenty to do.

Spot animals such as foxes, moose, bears and mountain goats in the city, explore the city by taking a guided tour, take a cruise right up to the huge glacier and soak in the culture and history of the area at the Alaska Native Heritage Center and Anchorage Museum or take a stroll in the Alaska Botanical Garden or Chugach State Park.

Recommended Hotel: The Hotel Captain Cook

11. Fairbanks

Fairbanks, AK 99701-4806 (907) 456-5774

A trip to Alaska is incomplete without the experience of viewing the magical Northern Lights and Fairbanks is probably the best place to see these ethereal green, purple and red lights dancing across the skies from the months of August to April.

Apart from the stunning Aurora Borealis, you can see spectacularly long sunrises and sunsets too.

Some of the other things you can do at Fairbanks are, discover the history, culture and art of Native Americans, visit the Ice Museum, the Fairbanks Pioneer Museum, soak in natural hot springs at the Chena Hot Springs Resort , visit the Alaska Railroad and go on wildlife and marine tours.

Recommended Hotel: Chena Hot Springs Resort

Juneau, AK 99801 (907) 586-2201

Juneau, Alaska’s capital is a spectacularly beautiful place for a weekend getaway.

The long stretches of breathtaking wilderness, miles-long mountains and glaciers, and stunning beaches are all ingredients of a wonderful vacation.

There are plenty of activities that you can do with your kids.

You can hike the numerous trails, travel by the Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway to the top of the mountain, go on a whale watching tour and view porpoises, humpback, and killer whales, visit the Mendenhall Glacier, go kayaking, visit Tracy Arm, Tongass National Forest, the Alaska State Museum or take leisurely strolls on the beach.

Recommended Hotel: Juneau Hotel

13. Tutka Bay Lodge

SE Coast across Kachemak Bay Homer, AK 99603 (907) 274 2710

Located near Kachemak Bay, the Tutka Bay Lodge is near Homer and is surrounded by stunning fjords and mountains.

The lodge is set on a property spread across 7 acres with the main lodge and 6 private accommodations.

The lodge is in the perfect location, allowing you to do loads of activities including day trips to the surrounding areas, adventures in the wilderness, river rafting, bird watching, Iditarod race viewing, tide pooling, kayaking, fishing, helicopter tours, glacier trekking, bear viewing and more.

Related: Things to Do in Alaska with Kids

14. Camai Bed and Breakfast

3838 Westminster Way Anchorage, AK 99508 (907) 333-2219

Need a break from your endless parade of bills, chores, and city grind?

Do yourself a favor, and enjoy a stay at this cozy bed and breakfast.

Nestled in Anchorage, this family-owned property is one of the city’s oldest and most gorgeous inns.

Surrounded by the dramatic Alaskan scenery, this bed and breakfast is full of tantalizing sights at each turn.

Each flower-themed suite here is equipped with a private bathroom and a host of amenities.

In summer, guests may enjoy a hearty and scrumptious full breakfast.

Winter guests, meanwhile, may savor the inn’s continental breakfast.

Location is fantastic too, with easy access to several Anchorage activities, including the Alaska Museum of Natural History and the Alaska Zoo.

What’s more, it’s a convenient base for mind-blowing outdoor activities, like whale watching, hiking, and skiing.

15. Pearson’s Pond Inn

9633 Kelly Ct Ste 1 Juneau, AK 99801-8723 (907) 789-3772

Recipient of the AAA Four Diamond Award for the last 12 years, Pearson’s Pond Inn is among the top boutique bed and breakfast accommodations situated in Juneau.

Perfect for a romantic weekend away with your partner, the Pearson’s Pond Inn is a beautiful property set amidst ponds and gardens and surrounded by lush forest views.

The inn offers deluxe and luxury 1- and 2-bedroom suites with all the modern amenities needed for a comfortable stay.

The B&B is very close to all the major attractions such as Auke Bay, Mendenhall Glacier, the downtown area, etc.

16. Homer Inn and Spa

895 Ocean Dr Loop Homer, AK 99603 (907) 235-1000

Situated in Homer, the Homer Inn and Spa is a boutique hotel that allows you to have a fantastic Alaskan experience in a relaxed ambiance.

You can choose from the 6 oceanfront rooms, oceanfront villas or the townhouses that are located in downtown Homer all of which offer wondrous views of the beautiful Kachemak Bay, the ancient glaciers and rugged mountains.

The hotel features a spa, a 2,000 sq. ft foot deck overlooking the waters, an oceanfront hot tub and a fire ring area and is a tour away from various outdoor activities.

17. The Historic Anchorage Hotel

330 E Street Anchorage, AK 99501 (907) 272-4553

If you’re visiting Anchorage, then a stay at The Historic Anchorage Hotel is a must-do.

Opened in 1916, The Historic Anchorage Hotel is on the National Register of Historic Places, offering a rich history, along with luxurious amenities for a comfortable stay.

The beautifully restored hotel has 26 rooms with antique furnishings and offers modern facilities including a business center, a fitness center, and a gift shop.

The perfect location of the hotel makes it very close to various cultural, shopping and dining destinations.

You can do plenty of things while staying at The Historic Anchorage Hotel—visit the Chugach State Park, take a cruise for some whale and glacier viewing, visit the Alaska Zoo, Denali National Park, Anchorage Museum, hike through the pine forests and more.

Related: Family Hotels in Alaska

18. Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge

23601 Talkeetna Spur Rd Talkeetna, AK 99676 (800) 808-8068

Overlooking the Talkeetna town and surrounded by the majestic mountains, the Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge is central to all adventure activities that you want to take on.

The lodge has 212 large rooms and suites with all the modern amenities required to make your stay super comfortable.

You can spend your time exploring the Alaskan wilderness surrounding the lodge, go on guided hiking tours or do it on your own, shop for art from the local shops or check out the wining and dining options in the neighborhood.

And, after a hectic day, you can relax at the lodge’s river rock fireplace, which is 46 feet high.

19. Denali Fireside Cabins and Suites

22647 Talkeetna Spur Road PO Box 591 Talkeetna, AK 99676 (907) 733-2600

Situated close to Talkeetna downtown, the Denali Fireside Cabin & Suites is a beautiful lodge offering private log cabins and hotel-style suites.

The cabins and rooms of the lodge have a rustic décor but are equipped with all the facilities you need for a comfortable stay.

There is plenty to do around the lodge, you can take a floatplane or an air taxi for sightseeing, go ziplining, hiking, Mt. McKinley flightseeing, rafting or jet boat tours, ATV tours, fishing expeditions, dog sled rides, Alaska Railroad Hurricane Gulch Tour.

So, whether you’re looking for quick trips or a much longer getaway in Alaska with your mate, lover or the entire family, there are plenty of options.

In our guide to the best weekend getaways in Alaska, we have rounded up some of the best getaway destinations, places to stay and things to do in Alaska that you and your loved ones are sure to enjoy.

Map of the Best Weekend Getaways in Alaska

19 Best Weekend Getaways in Alaska for 2024

• Denali National Park
• Alyeska Resort, Girdwood
• Kodiak Island
• Glacier Bay National Park
• Chena Hot Springs Resort
• Tutka Bay Lodge
• Camai Bed and Breakfast
• Pearson’s Pond Inn
• Homer Inn and Spa
• The Historic Anchorage Hotel
• Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge
• Denali Fireside Cabins and Suites

• Denali National Park
• More Destinations...
• Dawson Creek
• Dawson City
• Fort Nelson
• Fort St John
• Hudson’s Hope
• Watson Lake
• Tumbler Ridge
• Alaska Highway
• Klondike Highway
• Top of the World Highway
• Cassiar Highway
• Haines Highway
• Dempster Highway
• John Hart Highway
• Yellowhead Highway
• Parks Highway
• Seward Highway
• Sterling Highway
• Glenn Highway
• Richardson Highway
• Tok Cut-off
• Denali Highway
• Dalton Highway

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• One Week Itinerary Ideas for Alaska

There is a lot you can see in Alaska even if you only have one week. You can explore national parks, see calving glaciers, flightsee over Denali and spot incredible wild animals from black bears and brown bears to humpback whales and sea otters.

If you have more than 7 days, that will of course allow you to see more of the largest state in the United States. But, if all you have time for is a one week itinerary for Alaska, that’s still plenty of time to see what Alaska is famous for and create your perfect Itinerary.

The good news is, there are plenty of transportation options for seeing Alaska in one week. From rental car and rental RV’s to trains and bus tours. You won’t be limited in your choice of how to travel around and see Alaska.

Many of Alaska’s one week itinerary options start in Anchorage. This is because it is the easiest city in Alaska to fly into. The Ted Stevens International Airport in Anchorage is by far the largest airport in the state and has the most flight options.

Anchorage is also very central to many of Alaska’s top attractions, so it’s a very convenient place to start any one week itinerary.

We recommend that visitors spend at least one full day in Anchorage , either at the beginning or the end of your trip. There is a lot to offer visitors in Alaska’s largest city, so we will start with a run down of what to see in Anchorage before we get into the many different one week itinerary options we’ve put together. If you are looking to add a dash of luxury to your vacation , check out our list of  33 Luxury Alaska Resorts, Lodges and Hotels.

Anchorage - What to see and do?

Begin or end your adventure in Alaska’s largest city, Anchorage . There is an incredible list of major attractions here, including world class museums and tours.

Start your exploration of Anchorage at the Log Cabin Visitor Center in downtown. This is also the meeting point for Anchorage City Trolley Tours , a fun ride around town in a bright red trolley with an entertaining conductor to narrate your tour.

The Anchorage Museum in downtown Anchorage is a Smithsonian Affiliate and celebrates Alaska Native cultures and the history of Alaska. To further explore the Native History in Alaska, visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center to learn and explore the traditional and contemporary ways of Alaska’s Indigenous cultures. The Center is much more than a museum, it is also a place to engage and interact.

For a uniquely Alaskan Shopping experience, don’t miss out on The ULU Factory and Alaska Wild Berry Products . The ULU is a curved knife used by native cultures in the north. Alaska Wild Berry Products specializes in delicious souvenirs and gifts from chocolates to jams to wild Alaskan salmon. These are the kind of gifts your loved ones will appreciate.

One last, must see in Anchorage is The Alaska Zoo . Over 20 acres and 100 animals call the Zoo home. There are orphaned, injured and endangered animals including polar bears, black bears and brown bears, a tiger, moose, wolves and much, much more. Don’t miss the chance to take a walk on the wild side at the Alaska Zoo.

Now lets get into some of the best one week itinerary ideas for Alaska.

Explore the Kenai Peninsula in 7 days

The Kenai Peninsula is known as a Alaska’s Playground. It attracts almost as many local Alaskans as it does out of state visitors each year because it is a haven for outdoor activity and adventure. It’s amazing fishing and scenery make it a jewel in the crown of Alaska tourism. It’s also incredibly convenient to reach from Anchorage, making it a top destination for many visitors. Here is a great way to spend one week in the Kenai Peninsula.

Anchorage to Fairbanks, Including Denali National Park

The Anchorage to Fairbanks corridor is a great way to spend a week in Alaska. It includes Alaska’s two largest cities and passes through Talkeetna and Denali National Park, home to Mt. Denali, the tallest mountain in North America. This one week itinerary can be enjoyed as a self-drive tour or on the Alaska Railroad.

Anchorage to Denali National Park (4 to 7 days)

This itinerary can be easily modified be anywhere from four days to one week, depending on the time you have available. This is a perfect itinerary to add on to an Alaska cruise to see more of Alaska. This quick itinerary includes a self-drive to Denali and relaxing and scenic return on the Alaska Railroad.

Explore Alaska's National Parks in One Week

This one week itinerary is jam-packed and you may find it’s better as a 10 day tour. But it is possible to see three of Alaska’s iconic National Parks in just 1 week. You will see Denali National Park, Wrangell St-Elias National Park and Kenai Fjords National Park. Plan for lots of driving and amazing scenery on this tour.

7 Day Northern Lights Tour of Alaska

Winter tours to Alaska are becoming more popular because visitors want to see and experience the beauty of the Northern Lights. Few places in the world offer such amazing views of the Aurora Borealis. This one week trip is perfect for those looking to maximize their chances of seeing the amazing Northern Lights.

The Ultimate One Week Alaska Bear Viewing Itinerary

Seeing bears in Alaska is right at the top of most people’s bucket list. This itinerary is made just for you bear lovers. It includes a visit to famous Brooks Falls in Katmai National Park, as well as seeing bears at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and Alaska Zoo. Along the way you are sure to see much more wildlife than just Alaska’s famous bears!

The Perfect Pre/Post Cruise Land Tour Itinerary

Cruising to Alaska is still the most popular way for people to visit the 49 th State. But many of Alaska’s best attractions are not located on the coast. So, in order to see more of Alaska, many cruise passengers add a week of land tours before or after their cruise.

These pre cruise land tours or post cruise land tours are becoming very popular. Some of the large cruise lines like Princess Cruises and Holland America Cruiselines offer their own integrated land tours as part of their cruise itineraries. If you’re interested in our recommendations for the Best Alaska Cruise Itinerary click here.

However, we know there are many people looking to venture out on their own and this itinerary is perfect for those independent travelers.

Post Cruise Tour for Cruises Ending in Seward

Pre Cruise Tour for Cruises Starting in Whittier

Discover an Amazing Alaska Itinerary

From 4 nights to 14 nights you’ll find an Incredible Alaska Itinerary!

Begin your adventure in Alaska’s largest city, Anchorage. Spend your first day exploring Anchorage’s downtown, where you will find many easy to walk to attractions. See our detailed Anchorage information above.

Start your scenic drive south from Anchorage on the Seward Highway , along beautiful Turnagain Arm, through the Chugach National Forest to the Sterling Highway. Near the start of the Sterling Highway is the community of Cooper Landing , famous for its salmon fishing on the Kenai and Russian Rivers.

If you have more than 7 days, for your trip, this is a great place to stop and explore. Especially if you enjoy fishing or rafting. If you’re looking for a tour, talk to Alaska Wildland Adventures . They offer fishing and rafting tours in Cooper Landing.

Continue west to the very end of the Sterling Highway, passing through Soldotna , Clam Gulch, Ninilchik and Anchor Point, while enjoying the spectacular views across Cook Inlet. At the end of the road, you will reach Homer , the Halibut Fishing Capital of the World.

While in Homer be sure to book a fishing charter and try to catch one of Alaska’s famous halibut. Homer is also a great place to explore. It has the 2 nd longest “Spit” in the world, a 5-mile long narrow piece of land that juts into the ocean. There is plenty to do on the Homer Spit!

After an enjoyable couple of days in Homer, head 173 miles to Seward , retracing your drive on the Sterling Highway. At the Seward Highway Junction, head south to the port of Seward.

Seward is the “Gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park.” The best way to see this magnificent natural wonder is to book a boat tour. We recommend Major Marine Tours and Kenai Fjord Tours . The Kenai Fjords National Park is one of the best places for marine wildlife viewing in Alaska. You are bound to see humpback whales, orca whales, sea otters, Stellar sea lions, Dall’s porpoises, harbor seals, bald eagles, puffins and more.

The city is also home to the Alaska SeaLife Center , an aquarium and marine research, education and wildlife response facility. One of the best places for family friendly activities in Seward.  Exit Glacier is also in Kenai Fjords National Park. It is the only part of the national park that is accessible by vehicle. There are some beautiful hikes overlooking the glacier and some private companies that will take you hiking on Exit Glacier.

Day 6 – 7

When done exploring Seward, it’s time to head back towards Anchorage. Drive 65 miles north to Portage and the Portage Train Depot. Here you take the Alaska Railroad to Spencer Glacier and take a relaxing float among the icebergs of Spencer Lake and float down Spencer River.

After returning to Portage, drive 10 miles to Girdwood and the Alyeska Resort to spend the final night of your one week journey on the Kenai Peninsula. The Alyeska Resort has a Tram that takes you up to a spectacular viewpoint, where you can see seven different glaciers. You can also dine at the award-winning restaurant at the top.

A recommended stop on your way to Girdwood is at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center , where you are guaranteed to see bear, moose, reindeer, musk ox, and more.

The final day of your trip will see you drive the 35 miles back to Anchorage .

Begin your adventure in Anchorage and spend the day exploring Anchorage’s downtown or hop in the car and head out to see the Alaska Zoo. See our detailed Anchorage information at the beginning of this article for more ideas of how to spend your time in Anchorage .

Head north on the Parks Highway to the small town of Talkeetna . Talkeetna, 113 miles from Anchorage, is reached by a 14-mile spur road off the Parks Highway, known as the “Talkeetna Spur Road.” It is a cute frontier town with lots of character, and characters!

This is where the majority of Denali flightseeing tours take off from. We recommend Talkeetna Air Taxi for a Denali flightseeing tour and glacier landing. Guest take off in a small plane and see incredible vistas over the Alaska Range Mountains, including the tallest of them all, Denali at 20,310 ft. This flightseeing tour over Denali is consistently ranked as one of the best things to do in Alaska. There are other activities in town, including rafting, ziplining or a jet boat tour with Mahays.

Day 4 – 5

Today is the day to drive to Denali. Probably one of the main reasons to come to Alaska. This beautiful, and majestic mountain will be visible from the Parks Highway if the weather is bright and clear. For the best views, stop at the Denali Viewpoints at mile 135 and mile 163.

In Denali you will find plenty of amazing activities to fill your next day. For those looking to be at one with nature, a hike in Denali National Park will be sure to meet your needs. There are Ranger lead hikes that leave from the Visitor Center complex at mile 1.5 of the Park Road. Or you can take a shuttle into the park and forge your own path.

Shuttles into the Park are the easiest and most common way for people to see the sights of Denali National Park. These ‘sights’ of course include the closest views of Denali, anywhere short of taking a flightseeing tour over the mountain. Besides exploring the Park, there are plenty of interesting activities for visitors. These include, rafting , ziplining , ATV tours , jeep tours of the Denali Highway or just wandering around town.

Leaving Denali, head north on the Parks Highway, 120 miles to Fairbanks . Fairbanks is the second largest city in Alaska and home to some of the States best attractions. Visitors can explore Fairbanks’ gold rush past at the Gold Dredge 8 , The Riverboat Discovery or the Pioneer Park theme park. Fairbanks is also the closest city to the Arctic Circle and has plenty of tour options that can take you there. One of the most experienced tour companies for trips to the Arctic Circle is Northern Alaska Tour Company .

Fairbanks has three very unique museums that should not be missed. The Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum is an incredible collection of 19th and early 20th century cars that were significant in the birth of Alaska. The Fairbanks Ice Museum showcases incredible ice carvings made annually at the International Ice Carving Championships that take place every winter in Fairbanks.

Finally, the University of Alaska Museum of the North is a wonderful natural history museum with some unbelievably unique displays.

Anchorage to Denali National Park by Car and Railroad

Begin your adventure in Anchorage. If you are planning to do this itinerary in only 4 days, you will want to leave Anchorage on the first day and head north to Denali. If you have more time, add a day or two in Anchorage exploring downtown or the many nearby attractions. See our detailed Anchorage information above for more ideas of how to spend your time in Anchorage.

Spend at least 2 nights in Denali , as it is a long 5 hours of driving from Anchorage. The drive to Denali is beautiful. And on a clear day, it’s possible to see the majestic mountain from the Parks Highway . For the best views, stop at the Denali Viewpoints at mile 135 and mile 163.

There are plenty of amazing activities to fill your days in Denali. For those looking to be at one with nature, a hike in Denali National Park will be sure to meet your needs. There are Ranger lead hikes that leave from the Visitor Center complex at mile 1.5 of the Denali Park Road. Or you can take a shuttle into the park and head out hiking deeper in the park.

Shuttle busses into Denali National Park are the most common way for people to access the park. From deep inside the park you will have the closest views of Denali, anywhere short of taking a flightseeing tour over the mountain. Denali is made for adventure lovers and has a ton of interesting activities for visitors. These include, rafting , ziplining , ATV tours , jeep tours of the Denali Highway  

Heading back to Anchorage can be either by car, or if you have booked a one-way car rental between Anchorage and Denali, you can return on the Alaska Railroad . This is a unique itinerary that gives you the freedom of your own car in one direction and the relaxed return journey by train.

Alaska National Parks One Week Itinerary

There isn’t much time to rest on this whirlwind tour, so head out from Anchorage on day 1 to Denali National Park . This is a five-hour drive on the Parks Highway. So even with some scenic stops along the way, you should arrive with plenty of time to explore the town of Denali, which is just one mile from the National Park Entrance. Remember, the sun won’t set until after midnight in the summer, so there is plenty of time to explore.

Spend the day in Denali, either with a tour, or exploring on your own. The Denali Park Visitor Center is a great place to start. If you’re looking for adventure, Denali has plenty to offer from,  rafting , ziplining , ATV tours , jeep tours and more.

After seeing the beauty of Denali, you may have noticed it’s a very popular attraction and there are a lot of other visitors. While, the next step of your journey is going to be the complete opposite. Head south on the Parks Highway to Cantwell and turn onto the Denali Highway . This rugged wilderness Highway runs right through the heart of Alaska. You won’t see crowds, or tour busses on this leg of your trip.

The Denali Highway is mostly gravel and is a slow drive. It’s only 135 miles, but it can still take 4 + hours to drive. Don’t be in a hurry, and enjoy this drive through the wilderness. You’ll also get some spectacular views of Mt. Denali if the weather is clear.

At the end of the Highway is Paxson, on the Richardson Highway . Paxson is 70 miles north of Glennallen , where you will find hotels, and campgrounds.

It’s time to check off your second National Park: Wrangell St-Elias National Park . We recommend you stop by the Visitor Center complex at mile 106 of the Richardson Highway. If you plan to drive into the park, you can drive south on the Richardson Highway to mile 83, and take the Edgerton Highway to Chitna. The McCarthy Road from Chitna to McCarthy is a rough challenging road, and we don’t recommend driving it.  Instead, take one of the scheduled flights from Chitna or Glennallen on Wrangell Mountain Air. It’s a much more relaxing and scenic way to get deep into the Wrangell St. Elias National Park.

If you have more than one week, it’s recommended that you stay at least one night in the park at the Kennicott Glacier Lodge . This is a beautiful lodge, away from everything. A true Alaskan experience.

It’s only a short journey down the rest of the Richardson Highway to the stunning coastal town of Valdez . But before you even arrive you will see incredible scenery as you cross Thompson Pass and drive through Keystone Canyon. Watch out for Horseshoe Falls and Bridal Veil Falls around mile 13 and 14. There are a number of pullouts available so you can stop for a photo op!

Valdez is a beautiful city, and is famous for it’s access to Prince William Sound. We recommend day cruises into Prince William Sound. Both Stan Stephens Cruises and Glacier Charter Services will share with you the beauty of the Sound, it’s glaciers and it’s wildlife. Once again, if you have more time, this is an excellent place to spend an extra day.

But for those who are on the fast track to seeing as much of Alaska in the time available, then day 6 is time to catch the Alaska Marine Highway Ferry to Whittier. This is more than just a ferry ride. This is another scenic cruise through Prince William Sound. There is a reason the entire Alaska Marine Highway System is considered a National Scenic Byway.

After arriving in Whittier you will take the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, which is the longest tunnel in North America that is used by both vehicle and train traffic. Whittier is famous for being the town where all it’s residents live in a single building. There is one large apartment building in town and almost all the residents live there. Whittier is also the cruise port for Anchorage. It is 1 hour south of Anchorage and can be reached by the Seward Highway or the Alaska Railroad . 

But, before heading to Anchorage, you will be heading south on the Seward Highway, looking to squeeze in one more National Park in Seward .

Today, you will have time to explore The Kenai Fjords National Park. This spectacular national park is mainly enjoyed from the water. Boat tours leave multiple time a day in the summer from Seward and explore this beautiful National Park. We recommend Major Marine Tours and Kenai Fjord Tours . There is one part of the park that is accessible by road and that is at Exit Glacie r.

After exploring Seward and Kenai Fjords National Park, you can return to Anchorage , 127 miles on the Seward Highway.

Yes, this is a lot to squeeze into just one week in Alaska. But if you’re the type that likes to cram a lot into your vacations, this whirlwind trip might appeal to you. It would be enjoyed at a more relaxing pace if you had 10 days to 2 weeks.

If you’re looking to spend more time at the beginning of your trip in Denali or Wrangell St-Elias, you can drive straight from Glennallen to Anchorage in 4 hours ( on the Glenn Highway ), skipping the Valdez, Whittier section of this one week itinerary.

Northern Lights One Week Itinerary of Alaska

Fly into Fairbanks , Alaska’s most northern major city. It’s not quite at the Arctic Circle but it’s only 140 miles south. Your first day in Fairbanks can be spent exploring the city. If you come during the annual Ice Carving Championships in February and March, you should definitely check it out. This is one of the “Coolest” events around! If you’re not here during the event, you can always visit the Ice Museum where many carvings are stored year round.

Anther great museum to check out in Fairbanks is the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum . They are open a couple of days a week during the winter and they are one of the top attractions in Fairbanks, year-round.

Since you’re visiting Alaska in the winter, don’t miss the chance to visit North Pole, Alaska . Not the actual North Pole, but the small community called North Pole 15 miles south of Fairbanks. This community is home to Santa Claus House , an amazing gift shop where you may even spot Santa working away. Santa’s reindeer are also there for you to visit.

When the sun goes down, keep your eyes peeled for Northern Lights. Even in the city, it’s possible to spot them.

Day 2 – 3

Head out of Fairbanks today for Chena Hotsprings Resort . This is known as one of the premier spots to watch for the Aurora Borealis. The Hotsprings are an amazing place to stay warm in the Alaska winter, while you watch for the dancing lights in the sky. There is also an Ice Museum at Chena Hotsprings where you get an icy drink and hang out in the incredible ice interior. Chena Hotsprings offers tours out into the wilderness for more opportunities to spot the Northern Lights.

Return to Fairbanks and spend the night before jumping on the Aurora Train to Anchorage. This train ride on the Alaska Railroad gives visitors a unique experience to travel 375 miles from Fairbanks to Anchorage , passing through Denali National Park . If the skies are clear you may see Mt. Denali, in all her glory. The winter scenery is breathtaking, and the train journey is a very relaxed and warm way to experience Alaska in the winter.

Spend these last few days of your trip exploring Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city . Unlike much of the rest of Alaska, many attractions are open year-round in Anchorage. There are many museums and uniquely Alaskan shopping experiences to have here. Many of them are listed at the top of the article.

The Ultimate One Week Alaska Bear Viewing Itinerary​

Start you tour in Anchorage and spend the day getting acquainted with Alaska’s largest city. There is no shortage of activities to keep you busy, but if your main goal is to see bears, head over to the Alaska Zoo , a quick 20 minute drive from downtown. What’s great about the Alaska Zoo, is that you will see black bears, grizzly bears and a polar bear. Polar bears are only found in the very north of Alaska, and most visitors will not see them. So this is a unique opportunity.

Beyond just seeing three different types of bears, the Alaska Zoo has a tiger, snow leopard, lynx, mountain goat, bald eagles and many more fascinating animals.

Drive south on the Seward Highway . For more bear viewing opportunities, stop at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center in Portage . This is one of the best bear viewing opportunities in the state. The animals live in large natural habitats and elevated walkways give visitors amazing views of the animals . Besides the black bear and brown bears, there are also elk, foxes, lynx, musk ox, reindeer, wolves, wood bison and more.

When done admiring all these incredible animals, take the Portage Glacier Highway to Whittier, your gateway to Prince William Sound. This short road will pass through the Portage Tunnel and the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel to reach Whittier. Whittier is known as the gateway to Prince William Sound and there are a number of glacier cruises and kayak tours for visitors to experience.

Today, drive the rest of the way to Homer , on the Seward Highway and the Sterling Highway . You will pass through Cooper Landing and Soldotna , as well as a number of other small towns along the Kenai Peninsula.

Settle into Homer and take time to explore both downtown area and the famous Homer Spit.

Today you will take a day tour to Katmai National Park . This national park is famous for it’s large numbers of brown bear.

As an aside…if you’re wondering about the difference between a brown bear and grizzly, there really isn’t one. The only difference is that brown bears live near in coastal regions and typically have more access to food, so they get bigger. Grizzly bears live inland, away from the coast, but they are genetically the same as brown bears.

Ok, back to the itinerary. The tour will start with a float plane ride to Katmai National Park. There you will be taken to Brooks Falls, where you are sure to see brown bears fishing in the Brooks River for salmon. July and September are the two best months to see Bears at Brooks Falls due to the large number of salmon migrating up the river.

Day 5 – 6

Today head back up the Kenai Peninsula to Seward , 170 miles away. Seward is a beautiful coastal city nestled between the Kenai Mountains and Resurrection Bay. It is also the Gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park . This stunning national park is best viewed on a boat tour, and we recommend Major Marine Tours and Kenai Fjord Tours . Seward is also a great place to explore a stunning Alaskan Glacier. You can drive right to Exit Glacier and find many hikes in the area with great views of the glacier. It’s also possible to hire a private company to take you for a hike on the glacier.

On the final day of your one week bear viewing vacation head back to Anchorage . Stopping at Alyeska Resort in Girdwood is a great way to end your vacation. You can take the Alyeska Tram to the top of the mountain where you can spot 7 glaciers from your vantage point. You can also dine at the top of the mountain at the award winning Seven Glaciers restaurant.

Post Cruise: One Week Itinerary for Cruises ending in Seward

Take your first day after your cruise to explore the charming city of Seward . If you’re ready to get back on the water, a day tour by boat is the best way to explore Kenai Fjords National Park . If you prefer to stay on land, you can get up close to Alaska’s marine wildlife at the Alaska SeaLife Center . This is the only aquarium and research facility in Alaska and great fun for the family. You can also visit the only part of the Kenai Fjords National Park accessible by road at Exit Glacier .

Take the Alaska Railroad to Portage and switch trains to go to Spencer Glacier. Get off at the Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop, and spend the day floating among the icebergs on the Spencer River. You can return to the Portage Train Depot on the Railroad and stay nearby at the Alyeska Resort in Girdwood , or head all the way into Anchorage .

Continue your journey on the Alaska Railroad to Talkeetna . This cute frontier town is where most Denali Flightseeing trips depart from. Talkeetna Air Taxi is one of the top flightseeing companies in town offering flights over Denali as well as the option to land on a Glacier. It’s definitely an amazing experience and usually listed as a trip highlight for visitors to Alaska. Talkeetna also offers up other adventures like the Mahays Jetboat Adventure that takes guests up the Susitna River and on a clear day, you will have spectacular views of Mount Denali.

Take the train north to Denali National Park from Talkeetna. Visiting Denali National Park is probably the main reason for adding on a land tour to your cruise to Alaska. Exploring Denali can take many different forms. You can take a shuttle into the park on the Denali Park Road. Private Vehicles are only allowed to drive to mile 15 of the park road. After that, you will need to take a shuttle bus that leaves from the Visitor Center, near the park entrance.

There are also many adventurous ways to experience Denali. Some of the most popular are rafting , ziplining , ATV tours , or taking a jeep tours of the Denali Highway.

Take the return journey to Anchorage on the Alaska Railroad. If your weather wasn’t perfect on the way north, it may be better now so keep an eye out for great views of Mt. Denali on your trip. The train to Anchorage takes 8 hours. Once in Anchorage you will have time to explore this great city before ending your time in Alaska. From Anchorage you will fly home from the Ted Stevens International Airport.

Pre Cruise: One Week Itinerary for Cruises Starting in Whittier

Fly into the Anchorage Airport, Ted Steven Anchorage International Airport and start your great Alaskan adventure. We recommend you get settled in Anchorage and explore downtown . It’s easy to walk around downtown and there are a ton of activities available for visitors. One of the best ways to get acquainted with the city is to take the Anchorage City Trolley Tour . It departs regularly from beside the Log Cabin Visitor Center in the heart of downtown.

Pickup your rental vehicle. You can choose between a rental car or rental RV for this portion of your trip. Once you have your vehicle, it’s time to hit the road and head north on the Parks Highway to Talkeetna. Talkeetna is the best place to take off for an unforgettable flightseeing trip to Denali. Talkeetna Air Taxi is the tour we recommend.

Drive north from Talkeetna towards Denali National Park . But before you reach the national park, you should stop to enjoy the smaller, Denali State Park. There are viewpoints and campgrounds in Denali State Park that make it an incredible stop over on your way to the main attraction, Denali National Park. Although Denali State park is dwarfed by the national park, it is still 325,000 acres, which is approximately half the size of Rhode Island.

Denali State Park viewpoints of Mt. Denali are at mile 135 and mile 163. There are also campgrounds in the State Park at Kesugi Ken, Byers Lake and Denali View North.

Once you arrive in Denali National Park, there is no shortage of amazing activities. Of course, most people want to experience the park, so take a shuttle bus from the Visitor Center deep into the park. There are plenty of stops along the way with viewpoints of Mt. Denali. Activities for the adventurous types include rafting , ziplining , ATV tours , jeep tours and more.

Today, it’s time to return to Anchorage and return your rental vehicle. It’s a minimum of 5 hours driving back to Anchorage from Denali. Remember to keep an eye out for views of Denali along your drive.

An interesting stopping point in Wasilla is the Iditarod Headquarters . The Iditarod is the famous dog sled race to Nome. The headquarters in Wasilla shares the history of the race and offers dog cart rides during the summer. A worthwhile stop on your return to Anchorage.

Take the Alaska Railroad to Whittier to catch your cruise south. Whittier is the cruise port for Anchorage and the gateway to Prince William Sound. The train takes 2 hours to get from Anchorage to Whittier and is a beautiful journey along Turnagain Arm.

Turnagain Arm has some of the largest Bore Tides in the world. Bore tides occur when a high tide comes into a shallow river or body of water right after a very low tide. The resulting wave is long and continuous as it pushes from the mouth of the waterway (in this case, Turnagain Arm) to the end. This phenomenon happens regularly in Turnagain arm, and occasionally, the wave is very large (6-10 ft high) and surfers come out to ride the waves!

The train will also pass through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel to reach Whittier. This tunnel is the longest shared vehicle/train tunnel in North America. Now that you’ve reached your cruise departure point, it’s time to start the next leg your journey and experience Alaska’s magnificent coastline, marine wildlife and serene Inside Passage.

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The Ultimate Weekend In Alaska Road Trip Itinerary

Published: November 17, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Jacky Papp

• Plan Your Trip
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Introduction

Welcome to the land of breathtaking landscapes, untamed wilderness, and awe-inspiring beauty – Alaska. Known as the Last Frontier, this vast state offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. From towering mountains to sprawling glaciers, lush forests to abundant wildlife, Alaska is a destination that never fails to impress.

Embarking on a road trip through Alaska is the perfect way to soak up all that this remarkable state has to offer. Whether you have a long weekend or a few weeks to spare, this comprehensive itinerary will guide you through some of the most iconic destinations and must-see attractions.

Your journey begins in Anchorage, the largest city in Alaska and the ideal starting point for exploring the wonders of the Last Frontier. From there, you will venture into the heart of the state, visiting Denali National Park, where you can catch a glimpse of majestic Mount McKinley, the highest peak in North America.

Continuing on, you will make your way to Fairbanks, a vibrant city known for its stunning northern lights displays and rich history. From there, brace yourself for an unforgettable experience as you head to the Arctic Circle, where you can witness the mesmerizing phenomenon of the midnight sun.

Next on your itinerary is Valdez, a charming coastal town nestled between the majestic Chugach Mountains and the Prince William Sound. Here, you can explore pristine fjords, go whale watching, or even try your hand at glacier hiking.

As you journey on, make sure to stop at the awe-inspiring Matanuska Glacier, where you can walk on ancient ice and admire the dazzling blue hues. This natural wonder is a sight to behold and offers a unique and thrilling experience.

Continuing your road trip, you will arrive at Kenai Fjords National Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and wildlife aficionados. Take a boat tour to witness towering glaciers calving into the sea, spot whales and sea lions, and marvel at the untouched beauty of this pristine wilderness.

Your journey will then take you to Seward, a charming coastal town that serves as the gateway to the Kenai Fjords. Explore the quaint streets, indulge in fresh seafood, and take in the stunning coastal scenery.

Leaving Seward behind, your road trip will lead you to the delightful town of Homer. Known as the Halibut Fishing Capital of the World, Homer offers opportunities for outdoor adventures, like fishing, hiking, and kayaking, along with stunning views of the Kachemak Bay.

After enjoying the delights of Homer, it’s time to head back to Anchorage, where you can reflect on the incredible journey you’ve had through the rugged and majestic landscapes of Alaska.

So, buckle up and get ready for the ultimate weekend in Alaska road trip, where every turn of the road promises a new adventure and a chance to connect with the raw and untamed beauty of the Last Frontier.

Day 1: Anchorage

Your Alaskan adventure begins in Anchorage, the largest city in the state and a thriving hub of culture and outdoor activities. Start your day by exploring the picturesque Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, a scenic 11-mile trail that winds along the coast, offering stunning views of the city skyline, the Chugach Mountains, and the Cook Inlet.

After a refreshing hike, head downtown to explore the vibrant arts and cultural scene. Visit the Anchorage Museum, where you can immerse yourself in Alaskan history, art, and culture. Don’t miss the Alaska Native Heritage Center, a living museum that showcases the rich traditions and diverse cultures of Alaska’s indigenous peoples.

No trip to Anchorage is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. Savor fresh seafood, such as Alaskan king crab or wild-caught salmon, at one of the city’s many renowned seafood restaurants. Wash it down with a locally brewed craft beer or sample some Alaska-distilled spirits.

In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through the bustling streets of downtown Anchorage and explore the shops, galleries, and boutiques. Visit the Anchorage Market and Festival, held during the summer months, where you can browse local arts and crafts, sample delicious food from around the world, and listen to live music.

If you’re looking for a taste of Alaskan wilderness, visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, located just outside of Anchorage. Get up close and personal with native wildlife, including bears, moose, caribou, and bald eagles, in a natural and safe environment.

In the evening, chase the famous northern lights. If you’re visiting during the aurora season (September to April), venture outside of the city to catch a glimpse of this magical natural phenomenon, dancing across the night sky.

After a full day of exploration, settle into your accommodations in Anchorage, whether it’s a cozy hotel or a charming bed and breakfast. Rest up, as tomorrow holds more exciting adventures on your Alaskan road trip.

Day 2: Denali National Park

On day two of your Alaskan road trip, make your way to Denali National Park, a wilderness paradise that showcases the true beauty and vastness of Alaska. Located just a few hours north of Anchorage, Denali National Park is home to the mighty Mount McKinley, North America’s tallest peak.

Begin your day by driving to the park entrance and stopping at the Denali Visitor Center. Here, you can gather information about the park’s trails, wildlife, and guided tours. Take the time to learn about the park’s flora and fauna, as well as the rich history and cultural significance of the area.

For an immersive experience, embark on a guided bus tour that takes you deep into the heart of Denali National Park. These tours give you a chance to spot native wildlife, such as grizzly bears, wolves, moose, and Dall sheep. The park is also a bird-watcher’s paradise, with over 170 species of birds recorded.

While exploring the park, take advantage of the numerous hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The Savage River Loop Trail and Horseshoe Lake Trail are popular options for hikers of all levels.

For a truly unforgettable experience, consider taking a scenic flightseeing tour over the expansive wilderness of Denali National Park. From above, you’ll witness the grandeur of Mount McKinley and the stunning landscapes that stretch as far as the eye can see.

As the day comes to a close, find a spot to enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature or savor a delicious meal at one of the park’s lodges or restaurants. Afterward, spend the evening stargazing and marveling at the incredible clarity of the night sky.

When it’s time to rest, choose from a variety of accommodations within the park, ranging from campgrounds to cozy lodges. Falling asleep in the heart of Denali National Park is a true Alaskan experience that you won’t want to miss.

Day two in Denali National Park will leave you in awe of the sheer beauty and untouched wilderness that Alaska is known for. Take in the sights, immerse yourself in nature, and prepare for another exciting day ahead as you continue your Alaskan road trip.

Day 3: Fairbanks

On day three of your Alaskan road trip, venture north to the vibrant city of Fairbanks. Known for its unique blend of history, culture, and natural wonders, Fairbanks offers a variety of experiences that will captivate your senses.

Start your day by exploring the Golden Heart City’s historic downtown area. Visit the Fairbanks Community Museum, which showcases the city’s colorful past, from the gold rush era to the present day. Learn about the indigenous peoples of the region at the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center, where you can view fascinating exhibits and attend cultural presentations.

No trip to Fairbanks is complete without experiencing the enchanting phenomenon of the northern lights. Head to the University of Alaska Fairbanks Geophysical Institute for a chance to learn about the aurora borealis and view stunning displays in their state-of-the-art Aurora Viewing Room.

For a unique perspective on Fairbanks, take a leisurely cruise aboard the Riverboat Discovery. This authentic sternwheeler will take you along the Chena River, where you can witness a dog mushing demonstration, meet a reindeer herd, and learn about Alaska’s history and Native cultures.

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Fairbanks’ surrounding wilderness by taking a trip to nearby Chena Hot Springs. Soak in the natural hot springs and rejuvenate your body and soul. If you’re visiting during the winter months, you can even take part in activities like dog sledding or experiencing the incredible thrill of riding on a snowmobile.

For a taste of Alaskan wildlife, visit the Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge, a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Take a leisurely walk along the nature trails and spot a variety of migratory birds, including sandhill cranes and trumpeter swans.

In the evening, sample some of Fairbanks’ delicious cuisine. Indulge in fresh Alaskan seafood, such as halibut or salmon, or savor dishes inspired by the region’s Native cultures. Pair your meal with a locally brewed beer or a glass of Alaska-distilled spirits for a true taste of the Last Frontier.

Rest up for the night at one of Fairbanks’ comfortable accommodations, ranging from cozy lodges to hotels with stunning mountain views. As you drift off to sleep, reflect on the incredible experiences of the day and prepare for more adventures ahead on your Alaskan road trip.

Day 4: Arctic Circle

On day four of your Alaskan road trip, prepare for an extraordinary adventure as you venture to the remote and fascinating Arctic Circle. This day will take you to the northernmost reaches of Alaska, providing a glimpse into an untouched wilderness that few have the opportunity to experience.

Set out from Fairbanks and begin your journey along the Dalton Highway, an iconic route that stretches over 400 miles north. As you drive, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife such as caribou, foxes, and even the elusive Arctic wolf. The landscape unfolds before you, revealing vast tundra, rolling hills, and breathtaking vistas.

Stop at the Yukon River, a mighty waterway that splits Alaska’s interior and offers a picturesque spot for a picnic lunch. Take in the serenity of the river’s tranquil waters and appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds you.

Continuing on, cross into the Arctic Circle, a latitude line that marks the beginning of the Arctic region. This is a significant milestone on your journey and a chance to take that iconic photo next to the Arctic Circle sign. Marvel at the untouched vastness of the Arctic landscape as you stand on the doorstep of the top of the world.

During the summer months, you’ll have the opportunity to take a thrilling flightseeing tour from Coldfoot, a small town located along the Dalton Highway. Soar above the Arctic tundra and witness breathtaking views of the region’s unique terrain, including towering mountains, flowing rivers, and vast expanses of wilderness.

As you make your way back to Fairbanks, be sure to keep an eye out for the midnight sun. During the summer solstice, the sun never sets, casting a golden glow across the landscape and creating a surreal and unforgettable experience.

Arriving back in Fairbanks, take time to reflect on the incredible journey you’ve had to the Arctic Circle. It’s an adventure that few get the chance to embark on and a memory that will stay with you for a lifetime.

Rest up for the night in one of Fairbanks’ cozy accommodations, as tomorrow brings more amazing destinations and experiences on your Alaskan road trip.

Day 5: Valdez

On day five of your Alaskan road trip, make your way to Valdez, a picturesque coastal town nestled in the heart of the Chugach Mountains. Known for its stunning natural beauty and rich history, Valdez is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a tranquil escape.

Start your day by exploring the historic downtown area of Valdez. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront and soak up the charming atmosphere as you admire the fishing boats and scenic views. Visit the Valdez Museum and Historical Archive to learn about the town’s fascinating past, including the gold rush era and the infamous 1964 earthquake.

No trip to Valdez is complete without experiencing the majestic Prince William Sound. Embark on a wildlife sightseeing cruise to explore the pristine fjords, witness towering glaciers calving into the sea, and spot a variety of marine wildlife, including sea otters, seals, and whales.

For hiking enthusiasts, the Keystone Canyon offers breathtaking trails with waterfalls cascading down majestic cliffs. Don’t miss Bridal Veil Falls and Horsetail Falls, two iconic waterfalls that are easily accessible and offer stunning photo opportunities.

For a unique and exciting adventure, consider taking a helicopter tour to experience the awe-inspiring Columbia Glacier up close. Marvel at the massive ice formations and the brilliant blue hues, and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to touch the icy surface.

Valdez is also a paradise for fishing enthusiasts. Consider booking a charter fishing trip to try your luck at catching some of Alaska’s famous salmon or halibut. Experience the thrill of reeling in a big catch while surrounded by the beauty of the coastal waters.

In the evening, savor the delicious local seafood at one of Valdez’s restaurants. Feast on fresh halibut or salmon, cooked to perfection, and indulge in other Alaskan specialties. Pair your meal with a glass of locally crafted beer or a fine selection of Alaska’s world-class wines.

After an eventful day in Valdez, find a comfortable place to rest your head, whether it’s a cozy hotel or a charming bed and breakfast. As you fall asleep, let the memories of Valdez’s natural wonders and coastal charm drift through your mind, preparing you for another exciting day on your Alaskan road trip.

Day 6: Matanuska Glacier

Day six of your Alaskan road trip brings you to the awe-inspiring Matanuska Glacier, a natural wonder that will leave you breathless. Located in the Matanuska-Susitna Valley, this massive glacier stretches over 27 miles long and is a sight to behold.

Start your day by driving to the Matanuska Glacier State Recreation Site, where you can access the glacier and embark on an unforgettable adventure. Explore the glacier by taking a guided hike or opting for a thrilling ice climbing experience. Learn about the geological history and unique features of the glacier from knowledgeable guides who will ensure your safety and provide an enriching experience.

As you traverse the icy expanse, be prepared to witness stunning blue hues and otherworldly formations of ice. The sheer magnitude of the glacier will leave you in awe and provide ample opportunities for breathtaking photographs.

For a bird’s-eye view of the glacier and the surrounding area, consider taking a scenic flightseeing tour. Soar above the glacier in a small plane or helicopter and marvel at the vastness of the landscape, including the towering peaks of the Chugach Mountains.

After exploring the glacier, take some time to relax and enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the stunning scenery. Sit back, take in the tranquility, and appreciate the raw beauty of the Alaskan wilderness.

If time permits, venture to the nearby town of Palmer, known for its rich agricultural heritage and charm. Explore the local farmers’ market, sample fresh produce and homemade treats, and immerse yourself in the vibrant local community.

As the day comes to a close, make your way to your chosen accommodation near Matanuska Glacier. Whether you opt for a cozy cabin or a campground, be prepared to fall asleep under the starry Alaskan sky, with the memories of this day’s glacier adventure lingering in your mind.

The experience of standing on the ancient ice of Matanuska Glacier is one you won’t soon forget. This day will undoubtedly be one of the highlights of your Alaskan road trip, as you witness the power and grandeur of nature’s frozen masterpiece.

Day 7: Kenai Fjords National Park

On day seven of your Alaskan road trip, prepare to be awestruck as you journey to Kenai Fjords National Park, a pristine wilderness area renowned for its stunning glaciers, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking fjords.

Start your day by making your way to the coastal town of Seward, the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park. From there, embark on a thrilling boat tour that will take you deep into the heart of the park. These guided tours offer an incredible opportunity to witness glaciers calving into the sea, spot majestic marine life, and marvel at the untouched beauty of this remarkable landscape.

Explore the breathtaking Resurrection Bay, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Keep your eyes peeled for whales, dolphins, sea lions, and otters as you sail through the pristine waters. If you’re lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of a bald eagle soaring overhead.

One of the highlights of Kenai Fjords National Park is witnessing the massive tidewater glaciers up close. These glaciers, such as the awe-inspiring Exit Glacier and the Aialik Glacier, are a sight to behold. Listen in awe as you hear the rumbling sounds of the ice and witness chunks of ice breaking off and crashing into the water.

Take advantage of the numerous hiking trails in the park, which offer stunning views of the fjords and surrounding mountains. The Harding Icefield Trail is a popular option, leading you to panoramic vistas of the stunning icefield that covers much of the park.

As you sail back to Seward, take the time to reflect on the incredible beauty and natural wonders you have encountered throughout the day. The untouched landscapes and majestic wildlife of Kenai Fjords National Park will leave an indelible impression on you.

Back in Seward, indulge in some fresh seafood at one of the town’s renowned restaurants. From succulent crab legs to perfectly grilled salmon, the flavors of the sea will tantalize your taste buds. Pair your meal with a glass of local Alaskan beer or wine, and toast to a day of unforgettable experiences.

Rest up for the night in one of Seward’s comfortable accommodations, as tomorrow holds more exciting destinations and adventures on your Alaskan road trip.

Day 8: Seward

On day eight of your Alaskan road trip, take the time to fully immerse yourself in the charming coastal town of Seward. Nestled between the mountains and the sea, Seward offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and small-town charm.

Start your day by exploring the town’s historic district. Take a leisurely walk along the waterfront and admire the picturesque views of Resurrection Bay. Visit the Seward Museum, which showcases the town’s rich history and its connection to the Alaska Railroad and the gold rush era.

If you’re in the mood for adventure, embark on a kayaking excursion in the calm waters of Resurrection Bay. Paddle along the picturesque coastline, take in the breathtaking views, and keep an eye out for marine wildlife, including seals and sea otters.

For those seeking a more relaxed experience, a scenic boat tour around Resurrection Bay is a must. Cruise the glacial fjords, spot wildlife, and marvel at the towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the majestic Aialik or Holgate Glaciers, which are sure to leave you in awe.

Take a break from your outdoor adventures and enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at one of the local eateries. Savor the flavors of freshly caught salmon, halibut, or Dungeness crab, and indulge in the taste of the sea.

After lunch, explore the stunning landscapes surrounding Seward with a visit to the Kenai Fjords National Park Visitor Center. Here, you can learn about the park’s ecosystems, glaciers, and wildlife through interactive exhibits and educational displays.

For a thrilling experience, consider going on a dog sled ride on a glacier. Seward offers unique opportunities to experience the excitement of dog mushing, a beloved Alaskan tradition. Feel the exhilaration as you glide across the ice and witness the power and agility of Alaskan sled dogs.

Before the day comes to a close, indulge in a sumptuous dinner at one of Seward’s waterfront restaurants. Enjoy fresh seafood dishes expertly prepared, paired with a glass of local Alaskan craft beer or a fine selection of wine.

After a full day of exploring and enjoying the charm of Seward, find a cozy place to rest your head in one of the town’s comfortable accommodations. Fall asleep with the sound of the ocean waves, knowing that there are still more adventures to come on your Alaskan road trip.

Day 9: Homer

On day nine of your Alaskan road trip, venture to the delightful town of Homer, often referred to as the “Halibut Fishing Capital of the World.” Located on the scenic Kenai Peninsula, Homer offers a unique blend of natural beauty, artistic charm, and outdoor adventures.

Begin your day by exploring the Homer Spit, a long, narrow strip of land known for its bustling harbor and stunning views. Take a leisurely walk along the beach, browse the local shops and galleries, and soak up the creative atmosphere that has made Homer a haven for artists and writers.

For an unforgettable experience, embark on a boat tour to Kachemak Bay, a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. Keep your eyes peeled for whales, sea otters, seals, and an abundance of bird species, including puffins and bald eagles. Marvel at the breathtaking scenery and the rugged beauty of the bay.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at fishing in the world-renowned waters of Homer. Join a guided fishing charter and reel in the catch of a lifetime, whether it’s halibut, salmon, or rockfish. Enjoy the thrill of the fight and the satisfaction of a successful day on the water.

Visit the Alaska Islands and Ocean Visitor Center to learn about the unique marine ecosystems and wildlife that inhabit the region. Explore interactive exhibits, learn about the ecological importance of Kachemak Bay, and gain a deeper understanding of the delicate balance between humans and the natural world.

No trip to Homer would be complete without a visit to the Pratt Museum. Discover the rich history, culture, and art of the Kachemak Bay region through the museum’s informative exhibits and collections. Learn about the subsistence lifestyle of the native Alutiiq people and the fascinating natural history of the area.

Before leaving Homer, treat yourself to a delicious seafood dinner at one of the local restaurants. Indulge in freshly caught Alaskan seafood, including succulent king crab legs, perfectly grilled salmon, or mouthwatering halibut. Pair your meal with a glass of locally brewed beer or a fine selection of wines.

End the day with a tranquil walk along the Homer Spit, watching the spectacular sunset over the Kachemak Bay. As you reflect on your time in Homer, let the peacefulness of the surroundings wash over you, knowing that you’ve experienced the best that this charming coastal town has to offer.

Find a comfortable place to rest for the night in one of Homer’s welcoming accommodations, as you prepare for the final day of your epic Alaskan road trip.

Day 10: Anchorage

On the final day of your Alaskan road trip, make your way back to Anchorage, where it all began. Take this opportunity to reflect on the incredible adventures and memories you’ve made throughout your journey through the Last Frontier.

As you return to Anchorage, you may choose to revisit some of the places you explored on the first day or indulge in new experiences. Begin the day by exploring the city’s vibrant farmers’ markets, where you can sample local produce, browse unique crafts, and interact with local artisans.

Immerse yourself further in Alaskan art and culture by visiting the Alaska Native Heritage Center. Here, you can learn about the diverse indigenous cultures of Alaska through interactive exhibits, live performances, and traditional craft demonstrations.

If you’re interested in history, pay a visit to the Alaska Aviation Museum, where you can discover the important role aviation has played in the Last Frontier. Explore historic aircraft, learn about pioneering pilots, and gain insight into Alaska’s aviation heritage.

No trip to Anchorage is complete without enjoying some outdoor activities. Take a bike ride along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, witnessing stunning vistas of the city skyline, the surrounding mountains, and the sparkling waters of the Cook Inlet. Alternatively, if visiting during the winter months, consider trying cross-country skiing or snowshoeing in the nearby Kincaid Park.

Indulge in one last Alaskan feast before your departure. Sample regional specialties such as reindeer sausage or bison burgers, and treat yourself to a tasty dessert made with local berries. Raise a toast to an unforgettable journey through the rugged beauty of Alaska.

Before departing Anchorage, take a moment to reminisce about the breathtaking landscapes, the encounters with wildlife, and the incredible adventures that have filled your road trip. Whether you spent a long weekend or several weeks exploring the Last Frontier, the memories you’ve made will stay with you for a lifetime.

As you head to the airport or prepare for your next destination, bid farewell to Alaska, knowing that the spirit of this remarkable place will forever remain in your heart.

As your Alaskan road trip comes to an end, it’s time to reflect on the incredible journey you’ve had through the rugged and awe-inspiring landscapes of the Last Frontier. From the bustling city of Anchorage to the remote reaches of the Arctic Circle, you’ve experienced the true essence of Alaska – a land of untouched wilderness, towering mountains, and breathtaking natural beauty.

Your adventure took you through majestic national parks, where you witnessed the grandeur of Denali and explored the icy wonders of Matanuska Glacier. You cruised through the pristine waters of Kenai Fjords National Park, marveled at tidewater glaciers, and encountered abundant wildlife. You immersed yourself in the history and culture of towns like Fairbanks, Valdez, Homer, and Seward, enjoying their unique charms and coastal allure.

Throughout your journey, you dined on Alaskan delicacies, indulging in the freshest seafood and savoring the flavors of the Last Frontier. You met friendly locals who shared their stories and immersed yourself in the art and traditions of Alaska’s indigenous cultures.

From hiking and kayaking to flightseeing tours and wildlife encounters, each day was filled with new adventures and incredible experiences. Whether you were gazing at the northern lights dancing across the night sky or standing on the ancient ice of a glacier, the moments you’ve shared with Alaska’s natural wonders will forever remain etched in your memory.

Alaska, with its vast and untamed landscapes, leaves a lasting impression on all who visit. Its sheer size and immense beauty remind us of the power and magnificence of nature. It is a place that demands respect, ignites wonder, and inspires awe.

As you bid farewell to Alaska, carry with you the lessons learned from this wild and captivating land. Cherish the memories of your road trip and the connections made with its people and wildlife. Remember the pristine scenery, the tranquility of the mountains, and the vastness of the glaciers.

Alaska has offered you an adventure of a lifetime, one that has ignited a spark within your soul and left you longing for more. Whether it’s your first visit or not, Alaska will continue to call you back, beckoning you to explore further, to delve deeper into its secrets, and to experience its boundless wonders once again.

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for Solo Travel Over 50

The Perfect Alaska 3 Day Itinerary (2023)

UPDATED 2/25/23

Wondering where to go and what to do in a long weekend trip to Alaska? Enjoy best the best of Anchorage and Seward using this Alaska 3 day itinerary I created for my Alaska solo travel, and had a blast . Ditch the 3 day Alaska cruise. These 3 days in Alaska make for the perfect short Alaska trip.

This Alaska itinerary is intentionally written for the solo traveler, first time Alaska traveler, older travel (I am over 50), budget and/or eco-friendly traveler in mind. Yet, anyone can use this travel itinerary it to plan and book a fulfilling weekend trip to Alaska.

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This post may contain affiliate links for your convenience. For products, the goal is to first provide direct links to eco-friendly, ethical, and sustainable companies, and then to those same type (i.e., Climate Pledge Friendly Certification ), of brands that use Amazon, if possible. Therefore, you may see multiple links for one option. Should you make a purchase through any link, I will receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. See my Disclaimers & Disclosures and Privacy Policy for more information.

All You Need for This 3 Day Alaska Itinerary

The ultimate alaska travel guide, this alaska itinerary – full disclosure, when to go to alaska on this itinerary, what to bring to alaska for this itinerary, alaska itinerary travel packing essentials, traveling to alaska, day 1 – best of anchorage to seward, day 2 – resurrection bay kayak & kenai fjords cruise, day 3 – best of anchorage in a day, key takeaways for this alaska itinerary.

Here are all of the sites you need to successfully book these perfect 3 days in Alaska, including sites for an alternate Alaska activity options. I recommend you bookmark and use these sites early to lock in your Alaska travel itinerary and get the best Alaska travel deals.

Cheap Flights to Alaska

Alaska Rental Car Deals

Anchorage Airport Hotels

Seward Hotels

Fox Island Kayak, Lunch & Cruise

Resurrection Bay / Kenai Fjords Cruise

Kenai Fjords Park Cruise with Lunch

Alyeska Aerial Tram

Portage Glacier Cruise

Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

If you need more Alaska travel information, consult my Alaska Travel Guide with top tips on how to travel Alaska solo.

Yep, Alaska is not ‘on the beaten path’ of the rest of the U.S. Many people think that since Alaska is much farther than other U.S. states they have to carve out a lot of time to visit Alaska. Not true.

A long weekend in Alaska getaway is doable and worth your while.

Additionally, Alaska is safe to travel alone. Heck, I did this Alaska trip solo in my late 40’s.

I planned this solo travel to Alaska myself (like I do for all of my travel itineraries ). I do a lot of research for all of my itineraries to make sure I can do what I am comfortable doing (as an older, solo female traveler), I can fit it all in on my travel timeframe, and find any budget travel options, which is always welcome as a solo traveler.

I am so glad I did this trip to Alaska. I had a unforgettable time, and it didn’t break my bank.

Yep, I will pass on my Alaska budget travel tips, and critical Alaska planning tips, to you. Keep reading.

No, you don’t have to be a solo traveler to enjoy these 3 days in Alaska. I gave this same Alaska 3 day itinerary to a friend who used it for a trip with her boyfriend and two children. Like me, they loved it. Yes, I do do a good travel itinerary, if I do say so myself.

Note, I chose this first trip to Alaska over visiting Denali National Park for two main reasons: I believe you need more than 3 days in Alaska to truly enjoy Denali, and I really wanted to see Alaskan sea life. Denali is still on my bucket list.

Whether or not you are a solo traveler, I’m confident you’ll love your long weekend in Alaska with this Alaska 3 day itinerary.

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The best time to visit Alaska is in the summer (June to early September) for the best weather, opportunities to see the northern lights and whale migrations, and to partake in the most outdoor activities. 

Weather in Anchorage and nearby locations begin to cool during August, and most tours only operate from May to mid-September. 

I did these 3 days in Alaska during Labor Day weekend. I cannot express enough how much I lucked out on the weather. 

The day before I arrived, Alaska had just ended 30 consecutive days of rain. Seriously. The locals were talking about it. The rain started again the night I left.  How lucky was I?

Critical Alaska Travel Tips

See that beautiful blue sky and clear mountain visibility in my photos and video? Yep, weather is key for making this a great Alaska trip or a spectacular Alaska trip. When it gets cloudy, you miss out on a lot of stunning scenery. Still, this should not affect your decision on whether or not to book this 3 day trip to Alaska.

If were to do this Alaska 3 day itinerary again, I would still book it for late August to early to early September because this time in Alaska allows for: the end of the Alaska tours and excursion season with still good chances of humpback, minke and fin whale spotting; good chances of lingering warm weather and calm waters; 14 hours of daylight in Alaska ; avoiding more tourists; and, avoiding peak season (summer) travel costs ( budget travel tip number 1 ). Ah, the bonuses of being a solo traveler over 50.

Speaking of Alaska tours season, it is very limited. They operate approximately 4 months out of the year, so you must book your excurions well in advance . They do fill up quickly! If you wait, you’ll miss out and have to wait until the following year to enjoy these 3 days in Alaska. Why do that?

Booking early also goes for flights and hotels, especially hotels in Seward . Keep reading for my hotel suggestions that fit this 3 day itinerary.

Make sure you confirm Alaska tours and excursion dates (and times) thoroughly before you book. Not all operate on the same schedule.

Adhere to the check-in times for all tours and excursions, especially boat tours. Showing up at 8am for an 8am departure will find you left on the dock. Yes, they will leave without you, and don’t expect a refund.

Keep checking the weather daily up to your departure for Alaska so you are thoroughly prepared.

Pack for dressing in layers is best in case it’s cooler in the morning and evenings but warms up nicely during the day. Bring an umbrella , a light rain coat, hat and gloves, water proof hiking boots, and synthetic clothing, just in case.

Traveling carry-on only is completely doable for this 3 day Alaska itinerary.

Don’t forget a good, compact camera . Bring an eco-friendly backpack as your personal item bag , which is ideal for your outdoor Alaska activities.

Solo Travel Tips

You do not need to over-exert yourself during your 3 days in Alaska for a great time. This Alaska itinerary provides for unique Alaska opportunities but truly is leisurely, even the kayaking. If you wish to change up to more strenuous activities, that is up to you.

Depending on where you fly from, flights to Alaska can be limited. For this 3 days in Alaska itinerary, make sure your flights allow for 3 full days. Otherwise, you could just extend this long Alaska weekend trip to a 4 day Alaska itinerary.

Working on limited vacation time so, I chose to fly into Anchorage on a Thursday after a day of work in Los Angeles, arriving Anchorage late at night. I stayed the first night only at an Anchorage Airport hotel in order to start my perfect 3 days in Alaska fresh the following day.

I took the red-eye flight home Sunday night to allow for a full, third day.

Eco Friendly Travel Tips

Skyscanner  provides a ‘Greener flights’ filter highlighting flights that emit less CO2. Additionally, you can purchase carbon offsets  through your airline  to lower your carbon footprint.

In addition to Booking.com’s Anchorage’s Travel Sustainable properties and Seward’s Travel Sustainable properties , Green Globe and Green Key Global also have eco-friendly certified lodging options.

I reserved an Anchorage Airport rental car for easy pick up and drop off to save time on this short itinerary.

More Alaska Budget Travel Tips

Weekday and red-eye flights to Alaska could save more money than weekend flights.

Flying into Anchorage late at night, stay at an Anchorage airport hotel with breakfast included and free airport shuttle service to pick you up at the airport and drop you off at the airport the next morning to pick up your rental car. This will save you a day’s rental car charge and adds little time to this Alaska itinerary.

More Budget Travel Tips

• How to Travel Carry-On Only (and Avoid Baggage Fees)
• How To Save Money for Solo Travel
• How to Create a Solo Travel Budget

Do You Know What Alaska Flights Fit Your Schedule?

3 days in alaska solo travel itinerary.

I grabbed breakfast at my budget hotel (I was only there for 6 hours), then took their free airport shuttle to pick up my rental car at the airport in time to be on the road by 7:30am.

The distance from Anchorage to Seward is only 127 miles, which is approximately a 2.5 hour drive. So, you have considerable time to make the most of Day 1 on this 3 day Alaska solo trip by making some stops between Anchorage and Seward allowing for memorable Alaska activities and sights.

Seward Highway

Drive south along the Seward Highway, a designated National Scenic Byway with some of the best scenery in the U.S (and I’ve seen my fair share of the U.S. ).

Here is the opportune time to stop and walk along water for spotting wildlife such as beluga whales, moose and goats along Turnagain Arm .

Beluga Point

About twenty minutes south of Anchorage you’ll arrive at Beluga Point (also known as ANC-054, Milepost 110), a spot along the Cook Inlet of Seward Highway known for spotting beluga whales mid-July through August. Stretch your legs and see if you can spot some whales from shore.

Hop back in the car and 15 minutes further you can stop at Bird Point . The Seward Highway offers plenty of access points to hiking trailheads to break up your leisurely drive and offering opportunities for pictures.

Girdwood / Alyeska Tram

Leave Bird Point for a 13-minute drive to Girdwood and the Alyeska Aerial Tram . Park at the Alyeska Resort and access the tram.

The tram starts at 10:30am daily mid-May to mid-October.  The seven-minute ride provides breathtaking views and hiking and dining options at the top.

If you do not wish to dine at the top, Girdwood provides other lunch options, like The Bake Shop . Explore more of Girdwood’s activities and eats to suit your tastes.

Portage Glacier

Leave Girdwood by noon for a 22-minute drive on the Seward Highway to the Begich-Boggs Visitor Center , open May to mid-September, in Portage. 

Paid entry provides Portage Glacier formation and other geological history with a film exhibit that shows every hour.

If wish, take the 1:30pm self-drive Portage Glacier cruise . Cruises depart five times daily May 13 through September 21, 2023, last an hour, and require 5-day advance reservations made online .

Hop back in the car for a quick 8-minute ride to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (AWCC) where rescued injured or orphaned animals recover, or live permanently, on an over 200-acre habitat. Do not bybass the AWCC.

The AWCC provides educational programs and preservation of Alaska’s wildlife . Allow at least an hour here. Check online for their feeding and tour schedules so you don’t miss the ones you want to see. It closes at 5:30pm.

If you forgo the

If you forgo the self-drive Portage Glacier cruise , you have time to catch their 90-minute Walk On The Wild Side Tour starting at 2pm and catch the Portgage Glacier cruise on your way back to Anchorage.

Arrive Seward

After an educational and scenic afternoon, drive the last leg of the day’s Alaska road trip (about an hour and a half) to arrive in Seward early evening with plenty of daylight left to enjoy Seward.

Accommodations in Seward

Seward is a small town, so it is highly advisable to make Seward accommodation reservations well in advance . Seward can book up quickly.

I stayed at the Hotel Seward . It’s an older hotel but still a nice establishment with good food, a friendly staff, and in a very walkable section of town near the water and the Alaska Sea Life Center .

You can just leave your car parked here for the remainder of your time in Seward if you wish.

Reserve Accommodations in Seward Alaska Early

Where to eat in seward.

Fresh local, international, and vegan-friendly cuisine options across all budget types are available in Seward. Here are my Seward restaurant suggestions that are bound to please for day or night dining in Seward:

• Zudy’s Café
• Resurrect Art Coffee House
• The Cookery
• Seward Brewing Company
• Thorn’s Showcase Lounge

Things to Do in Seward

Ready to enjoy more of the great outdoors? Fabulous, because Seward is not going to disappoint. Seward lies on Resurrection Bay with many Resurrection Bay tours available to the Kenai Fjords National Park, a must do in Seward, Alaska, like the following (times do not include check-in before departure):

• Resurrection Bay / Kenai Fjords 1/2 Day Cruise (4 hours)
• Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise with Lunch (6 hours)
• Full Day Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise with Lunch (7.5 hours)
• Afternoon Resurrection Bay Kayaking Adventure (4 hours)
• Full Day Kayak, Lunch and Cruise (8.5 hours)

For this Alaska weekend itinerary, I chose the Full Day Kayak, Lunch and Cruise . It’s an easy adventure and a great way to start kayaking if you have not done so before. It made for the perfect day in Seward, especially for this 3 day itinerary, and at the best price, too.

I highly recommend this tour. Here is but some of what you’ll see kayaking:

Note, like most Seward activities, this Full Day Kayak, Lunch and Cruise tour operates only from mid-May to mid-September and can only be booked through Sunny Cove (it didn’t use to be this way).

Sunny Cove is closed in the off-season. So you’ll need to email them asap to confirm a reservation well in advance to plan your perfect, long weekend in Alaska. Also confirm if they have a cancellation policy.

Plan to wake up early for this long, fun-filled day of kayaking and cruising (with lunch) . Don’t bother with driving and finding harbor parking. Grab your breakfast snack and coffee to-go as you walk 20 minutes to the Adventure Center and small boat harbor for early check-in.

The tour boat departs promptly from the small boat harbor (confirm your departure time). Again, show up on time for the check-in or they will leave without you. You did not travel to Alaska to miss out, did you?

The boat’s first stop is Fox Island where kayakers get geared up for the morning kayak, which includes a kayaking orientation, and the boat departs on its first half of the bay tour.

The kayaking is an easy adventure and great way to start kayaking if you have not done so before. In fact, this was my first kayaking trip, and now I’m hooked . You’ll notice kayaking in more of my travel itineraries .

The Sunny Cove guides also provide boots and dry bags.

All you need to do is show up excited (it’s not hard to do), dress in layers, and carry your waterproof rain gear, hat, gloves (depending on weather), and reusable water bottle to be ready to paddle you way to an amazing morning on Resurrection Bay.

Kayaks are in pairs and was paired with another solo female traveler. This excursion in Alaska for singles ideal. It’s a great way to meet people.

Our guides were fabulous. We were blessed to see multiple sea otters and bald eagles, and even had a tag-along sea lion. The fresh Alaska air, calm water, and mountain visibility were nothing less than spectacular . Don’t forget to check out the kayaking video above.

After working up an appetite, you join the rest of the boat tourists for a grilled wild Alaska salmon and prime rib lunch at Fox Island Day Lodge (with plenty of sides available for non-meat eaters). 

After lunch, kayakers get back on the boat for the remainder of the day’s Resurrection Bay cruise into Kenai Fjords National Park to glimpse sights of mountain goats, puffins, sea lions, otters, and (hopefully) whales.

You will be back at the Seward small boat harbor around 5pm, which provides plenty of time to walk back to your hotel for a rest, and enjoy the Alaska Sea Life Center , another must in Seward, followed by dinner in Seward and a walk around the water. 

Alternate Seward Day 2 Itinerary

If you simply do not want to kayak or wish to break up the one day of kayaking and cruise into 2 days in Seward, you can. It may affect the Day 3 itinerary, or, again, you could simply extend this 3 day trip to Alaska to 4 days in Alaska. That is up to you.

However, since you chose Seward as your Alaska destination, I do recommend spending some time on the water.

Here are some of the best things to do in Seward for the summer months in Alaska to choose from to suit your taste.

Take advantage of the ‘reserve no, pay later’ options where available so you don’t lose out on traveling Alaska this year.

Best Things to Do in Seward Alaska

My alternate itinerary recommendations?

3 Days in Alaska – Alternate Day 2 Itinerary

Get up early for either a self-guided tour of Seward , self-guided hike in Caines Head State Park , or a 2-hour guided hike , followed by the Kenai Fjords National Park 6-Hour Cruise (lunch included).

If you are on a budget, grab a snack or early lunch in Seward after the hike, and take either the 4-hour Resurrection Bay Kayaking Adventure or the Half-Day Resurrection Bay Wildlife Cruise Tour .

4 Days in Alaska – Alternate Days 2 and 3 Itinerary

On day 2, get up early for either a self-guided tour of Seward , self-guided hike in Caines Head State Park , or a 2-hour guided hike , followed by the Kenai Fjords National Park 6-Hour Cruise (lunch included).

On day 3, do the 4-hour Resurrection Bay Kayaking Adventure and fill in the time with whatever suits you.

Either way, I would still recommend visiting the Alaska Sea Life Center .

Your last day traveling in Alaska gives you a few options before your late night flight departures Anchorage:

You could spend the day in Seward by grabbing coffee and breakfast at Zudy’s Café to fuel up for a hike in Caines Head State Park before driving straight to Anchorage Airport.

You could head out early to do the 10:30am self-drive Portage Glacier Cruise followed by Anchorage for the rest of the day.

I, however, chose breakfast and early check out to drive back to the Alyeska Resort in Girdwood for a morning hike on the Winner Creek Trail before an afternoon in Anchorage.

Winner Creek is a popular hike in Girdwood starting at the base of the Alyeska Resort aerial tram . Explore the northern rainforest and mountains streams in this 2.5 mile hike. Guided hikes are also available.

If you didn’t do the aerial tram on your way to Seward, here’s your second chance.

If you like, lunch again in Girdwood or wait for a late lunch in Anchorage. Anchorage has many great places to choose from, especially if you’re into micro brewery beer.

Things to Do in Anchorage

Since the clouds were rolling in during the afternoon for more rain, I took the opportunity to explore downtown Anchorage and try the local beers (see below).

You have multiple choices of activities enjoyable for spending a day in Anchorage before your red-eye flight leaves and work around the weather. I’ll let you choose how best to wrap up the last day of your long weekend in Alaska.

Best Things to Do in Anchorage for a Day

Check out the budget friendly alternatives for top fun in Anchorage.

Anchorage Hiking

Venture to Chugach State Park just on the outskirts of Anchorage.  Hike the quintessential Flattop Mountain widely regarded as the most climbed mountain in Alaska.

Start at the Glen Alps Trailhead about twenty minutes from downtown Anchorage. The trail is approximately three miles and 1,500 feet of elevation gain. It provides great city views.

Anchorage Bicycling

Take a break from hiking and rent a bike or e-bike at Pablo Bicycle Rentals or reserve your bike in advance . You can rent a hybrid bike inexpensively for two or three hours to explore downtown Anchorage or ride along the Anchorage Coastal Trail .

Downtown Anchorage

Park the car and take a stroll in downtown Anchorage which provides parks, shopping, restaurants and nightlife. Check out what’s happening in Anchorage for your last day in Alaska.

Anchorage Breweries

Ready for lunch (or dinner)?  Support the Anchorage local breweries.  Most provide either small fare or full menus and are touted for delicious brews.  Don’t take my word for it, check out the reviews.

Some suggested Anchorage breweries are:

• Moose’s Tooth Pub & Pizzeria
• Bear Tooth Grill
• Midnight Sun Brewing Company
• Resolution Brewing Company

Perhaps try a beer tour and tasting at Anchorage Craft Brewery or a biking and brewery tour .

Complete the day in Anchorage with dinner and drinks at Glacier Brewhouse , a tasty way to end your fabulously successful, long weekend in Alaska.

Yep, the key takeaway from this itinerary is that you can have a great time in Alaska in 3 days.

The second key takeaway is to book early so you can have fun in Alaska.

If you need to do doing Alaska budget travel as a solo traveler in Alaska, check into bundling your Alaska flight, hotels and rental car for more possible savings.

Just reserve your Alaska travel now. Do you really want to wait another year to travel to Alaska?

Start Planning Your 3 Days in Alaska Budget

Let me hear from you.

I would love to hear how my Alaska 3 day itinerary worked for your Alaska solo travel. Post me your comments or questions in the Comments section below. Thank you!

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Explore beautiful downtown Anchorage. (Photo: Getty Images)

Get Your Fix of Nature, Seafood and Cosmopolitan Amenities in Anchorage, Alaska

If you were looking for a Goldilocks trip, Anchorage may just be it. Picture Alaska and you’ll likely visualize expansive scenes of Arctic wilderness — and, sure, you can find that just outside the state’s most populous city, but you’re also never far from urban experiences that set the tone for a great vacation (think bars, boutiques and next-level restaurants).

Anchorage is home to accessible hiking trails; fabulous eateries with locally sourced, seafood-heavy menus; inventive breweries; opportunities to learn about the history and culture of the state and so much more.

As always, check for travel restrictions and closures before planning your trip.

Friday: The Heavy Hitters

You’ve got an action-packed day ahead — a good breakfast will start your trip with a bang. Snow City Cafe (try the Crabby Omelet) and Bear Tooth Grill (savory! corn! pancakes!) are both favorites with locals for good reason.

Next it’s time to make your way downtown to the Anchorage Museum for a crash course on all things Alaska. The largest museum in the state holds myriad exhibits, but its crown jewels are those focused on Alaska’s history and Indigenous Peoples. The museum’s Arctic Studies Center, developed in partnership with the Smithsonian, can go toe-to-toe with any big-city cultural institution.

Plan for at least a couple of hours to experience the museum in full, and exit through the gift shop to take home sculptures, prints and jewelry made by Alaska Native artists.

From there, it’s a 15-minute walk through Delaney Park to Fire Island Rustic Bakeshop for a rotating selection of cheffy sandwiches served on house-baked artisanal bread. While you’re at it, pick up a pastry (or, hey, a whole fruit tart, no judgment) for dessert.

Ship Creek, the only urban salmon fishery in the country, is a short drive from downtown. If the salmon are running, you’ll see local anglers crowding the muddy banks, all hoping to land a coveted king salmon. Grab a spot on one of the bridges to watch the fish muscle their way upstream to spawn

This afternoon, it’s a choose-your-own-adventure itinerary: You can either wander the shops and galleries downtown or rent a bike ( Pablo’s Bike Rentals for a standard setup, or 907 E-Bike if you want a battery assist) and go for a spin along the 11-mile Tony Knowles Coastal Trail.

The paved pathway hugs the shoreline past Westchester Lagoon, Earthquake Park and Point Woronzof, all the way to Kincaid Park.

Wind down with dinner and drinks in the heart of the city. Glacier Brewhouse is a good option for steaks and local seafood (not to mention a killer tap list). Afterward, head to trendy Williwaw , laid-back Humpy’s or divey-in-all-the-right-ways Darwin’s Theory for your nightcap

Saturday: Trail Markers and Makers

Pick up a box of Hawaiian-style malasadas at Wiki Wiki Donuts , and if you’re visiting during the summer months, head over to the Downtown Saturday Market .

Vendors from around the area set up stands selling everything from handicrafts and artwork to dog treats and human eats. Take a lap, and if you’re not too stuffed on pastries, be sure to get a reindeer hot dog (sorry, Rudolph).

Next, you’re going to get a better look at the town once known as “Tent City.” For a more micro angle, take a ride on the Anchorage Trolley . The conductor will talk through local history and point out places the locals frequent en route.

For a more zoomed-out view, why don’t you climb Flattop Mountain? The three-mile round trip (it’s a fairly moderate trail) is a perennial favorite. You won’t have it to yourself, but it is well-maintained and there’s no chance of getting lost.

If you’re a particularly avid hiker (or this isn’t your first trip to Alaska), you can add on other hikes in Chugach State Park: Williwaw Lakes Trail and Powerline Pass share the same parking lot.

Refuel with the salmon BLT at all-day café South (it’s polished, but totally laid-back) then get to know Anchorage’s makers. Dos Manos Art Co-Op and the Alaska Native Heritage Center have incredible artistic works (the latter also has exhibits on Indigenous music, art, traditions, dwellings and more).

Alternatively, go on a brewery crawl. Anchorage Brewing Company , King Street Brewing Company , Midnight Sun Brewing Company , Cynosure Brewing Company , Turnagain Brewing Company and Double Shovel Cider are all within a short walk (or Uber) of each other.

For dinner, consider Altura Bistro . Don’t let its strip mall location fool you — it’s an upscale spot for dishes from both land and sea.

Another popular option is Moose’s Tooth . No matter the time of year, expect at least an hour wait (if not longer) at this local favorite. But in this case, that’s kind of a good thing: While you wait, you can have a Broken Tooth beer (fromtheir sister brewery) in the beer garden or go next door to Kinley’s for a cocktail.

Sunday: A Small Town in a Big City

You’re going to need a car for today’s adventure. Fuel up and grab a coffee for the road — Kaladi Brothers , the largest roaster in the state, has outposts all over town, all of which have plenty of pastries and grab-and-go breakfast options.

Heading south of the Seward Highway, once you leave the core of the city, the first sight is Potter Marsh. Crisscrossing it is a 1,500-foot boardwalk path where you can hang to scope out ducks, geese and songbirds. This is the last wide-open space you’ll see until you hit Girdwood.

From here on, on the left side of your vehicle will be a vertical rock face and on the right will be the Turnagain Arm inlet. The whole road to Girdwood (and onward to Seward) is a scenic byway, so there are oodles of pull-out spots to gawk and take photos of the often snow-topped mountains and multi-hued waterway.

And you’ll need every stop: The drive is beautiful. If you’re lucky, you may spot some impossibly nimble Dall sheep perched on the cliffs or beluga whales coming up for air in the water.

Thirty-seven miles later, you’ll take the turn-off into Girdwood. After the drive, you’ll probably want to have a bit of a stretch — we recommend going for a hike. Winner Creek Trail and Alyeska Glacier View Trail are fairly easy ways to commune with nature.

For something more strenuous, the Mount Alyeska Trail, which follows the double-black-diamond ski run up the north face of the mountain, is a two-mile leg burner.

At the top, you can have a drink at The Bore Tide Deli and catch the Alyeska Aerial Tram back down for free. (If it’s winter, these trails will be closed, in which case, you’d be remiss not to go skiing at one of the local resorts instead).

Reward your efforts with a pint at Girdwood Brewing Company. It’s a favorite local hangout that’s kid-friendly (their root beer is great), dog-friendly (there’s often a local musher there socializing the newest pack of puppies) and the views of the surrounding peaks from the beer garden (where multiple fire pits are usually burning) are incredible.

Wrap up your day with dinner at one of the fabulous restaurants. Sitzmark is good for casual fare. The buffalo chicken caesar salad wrap, aptly called Fire & Ice, and the tater tot nachos are favorites.

Seven Glaciers Restaurant , atop the mountain, is arguably the nicest in all of Alaska, with a multi-course tasting menu and a nationally acclaimed wine list to pair with those unbeatable views.

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10 Undeniably Fun Weekend Trips To Take If You Live In Alaska

Carey Seward

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Everyone needs to get away sometimes, but it’s not always easy to take a vacation. Discover these hidden escapes that are right in Alaska’s backyard. You’ll be able to get away from it all without leaving the state! Get ready to explore the perfect spots for a weekend trip. No matter where you live in Alaska, you can find a fun getaway locale for a special weekend you’ll never forget.

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Even though you have to go back to work on Monday, a night at one of these destinations will leave you refreshed and dreaming of the next weekend away. Have you been to any of these spots? Share your pictures and adventures with us in the comments.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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One Weekend In Fairbanks, Alaska: A 3-day Fairbanks, Alaska Itinerary

Even if you just have 3 days to spend in Fairbanks, Alaska it’ll be an incredible experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. From the breathtaking views of the northern lights and majestic Mount Denali to the diverse wildlife making its way through the valley, there’s something for everyone in this scenic city. Here’s the ultimate guide to one weekend in Fairbanks, Alaska: A complete 3-day itinerary!

Side note:  The following post was written by Emily who spent 6+ months exploring Fairbanks. This way, you can be sure you are reading the best and most accurate one weekend in Fairbanks itinerary. See the author’s bio at the end for more information.

This site contains affiliate links to products. I may receive a commission for purchases made through these links at no extra cost to you.  There are  only products included that I truly love. I APPRECIATE your support .

Table of Contents

How do I get to Fairbanks, Alaska ?

Although it may seem like a faraway land that is too remote for the average traveler to venture to, Fairbanks is actually one of the easiest destinations in The Last Frontier to reach due to its international airport.

Located just a 15-minute ride from the center of town, FAI (Fairbanks International Airport) is conveniently served by Alaska Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines, among other popular choices.

From there, your best option to get around the city and explore its limits is to rent a car, which can be done on the first floor of the airport. With Hertz, Enterprise, Thrifty, and Budget car rental services all available, you’ll have plenty of affordable options to choose from!

Just be sure to book well in advance. If you plan on visiting in the winter months (as is suggested), then you’ll also want to ensure that your rental comes with very good snow tires or chains and is equipped with an engine block heater, heated oil pan, and battery heater.

Otherwise, once temperatures hit below 0 degrees Fahrenheit (-18 degrees Celsius), starting your car becomes a bit of a gamble!

What is the best time to visit Fairbanks, Alaska?

The best time to visit Fairbanks, Alaska is between December and February when the chance to witness the stunning Aurora Borealis lighting up the night sky in a brilliant display of color is at its peak!

Although the idea of visiting Alaska in the winter months may seem wildly intimidating to some, Fairbanks is actually at its most stunning when blanketed in snow.

December is also when the nearby North Pole goes all out for the holidays and creates the ultimate Christmas Town equipped with candy cane telephone poles (which actually stay up year-round), Santa’s Village, and endless holiday goodies for those who love a good Christmas party. It’s definitely one of the most magical Christmas cities in the US!

For those wanting to partake in outdoor activities such as ice fishing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or snowmobiling, winter, of course, is also the best time to do these activities. It is important to note that the days are SHORT in the winter, so plan your activities accordingly.

Although summer is also beautiful in Fairbanks it usually falls short in adventurous summer activities when compared to its neighboring cities. During the summer months, you may want to visit Healy which houses Denali National Park, the halibut fishing capital of the world in Homer, and even Seward which is the home of the breathtaking Resurrection Bay where the mountains meet the sea.

Summer is also a great time to try out an Alaskan cruise !

So, leave summer to the Kenai Peninsula and explore Fairbanks at its best when the aurora borealis lights up the night sky . Few other places in the world can compare to the winter wonderland ambiance this beautiful city provides!

Where should I stay in Fairbanks, Alaska?

When it comes to finding the best accommodation in Fairbanks, you have several options, however, it’s important to remember that the term “luxury” means a very different thing once you cross the Alaskan border.

Simply delete what you think you know, and get ready to experience a whole new world of accommodations in Alaska. Budget-friendly is, well… you get what you pay for. And luxury, well…let’s just say it’s not going to be The Ritz!

Visiting Alaska comes with some sacrifices, so if you aren’t someone who typically enjoys “roughing it” a little, then just remember how badly you want to see the northern lights. You’ll hopefully remember why the less-than-stellar accommodations will be worth it! 🙂

When it comes to the best areas to stay in Fairbanks, you have a few options. The city itself can be loud and a bit busy , so if you’re trying to experience Alaska’s rural side, then it’s recommended to pick an Airbnb in one of the nearby family neighborhoods. I personally lived in this Airbnb for 3 months during the winter, this was easily among one of the best places we’ve ever stayed in Alaska.

Other recommendations: 

• Budget-friendly Option: Billie’s Backpackers Hostel is one of the top-rated budget accommodations in the Fairbanks area. With rates as low as $70 per night for a twin bed, shared bathroom, and full kitchen, Billie’s is a great place to rest your head after a long night of aurora hunting.
• Mid-range Option: Pike’s Waterfront Lodge is a great mid-range option due to its convenient location just 1.5 miles from the Fairbanks International Airport, comfortable beds, clean rooms, and its wonderful onsite restaurant. Situated on the Chena River, guests can enjoy beautiful views of wildlife in the summer or icebergs come wintertime all for rates starting as low as $118 a night for double occupancy.
• Luxury Option: The SpringHill Suites by Marriott Fairbanks offers as close to luxury as you may be used to in the Lower 48 . With clean, spacious, and comfortable rooms, plush bedding, full bathrooms with tubs, complimentary breakfast, and some rooms offering beautiful views of the city, this is easily among the nicest hotels you can find in Fairbanks. 
• Dog-friendly Stay: Airbnb is best if you’re looking for dog-friendly accommodations in Fairbanks. Having traveled across the state with a dog, finding affordable pet-friendly hotels is a task in itself. Make sure to filter your Airbnb results to find either an entire place to yourself or a room in someone’s home that fits your budget and needs. The one listed above is also dog-friendly!
• Unique Option: If you’re seeking the ultimate all-inclusive stay during your 3 days in Fairbanks, Alaska, then Borealis Basecamp needs to be on your radar! Offering once-in-a-lifetime accommodations in igloos equipped with see-through ceilings for viewing the northern lights (plus wake-up calls when the auroras are out) and the opportunity to include exciting activities like snowmobiling and Alaskan reindeer meet and greets, this is one of the ultimate excursions to have in Fairbanks!

Sample 3-Day Fairbanks, Alaska Weekend Itinerary

Day 1 in fairbanks:.

Depending on what season you decide to visit Fairbanks in, you may be abruptly awoken by the 4 AM sunlight gazing through your blinds, or you may find yourself tying up your winter boots in the pitch black.

Whichever one seems more your style, be sure to start your day off right with breakfast at The Crepery! Well known for their delicious sweet and savory crepes, they also offer a variety of coffee and espresso drinks.

Late Morning – Afternoon:

With a belly full of crepes and a local cup of coffee or tea to join you, hop on the road and head east to Chena Hot Springs . These iconic natural hot springs are some of the best in the US and are the perfect remedy for soothing aching muscles after a long flight.

Bring your swimsuit, some snacks, and drinks, and sit back and relax for a few hours in these stunning springs surrounded by small mountains.

Following your dip in the springs, head to the on-site Aurora Ice Museum for a tour! These hour-long tours bring you through a beautiful indoor ice museum equipped with chairs, statues, and even a full bar made of ice. For an upgrade on your ticket, you can even include an apple martini made directly on the ice bar in your experience!

Now that you’re truly relaxed, stop over at the Chena Hot Springs Restaurant for some delicious appetizers and meals (pro tip: the wings and burgers are the best!) before making your way back towards the Fairbanks city limits.

Though it does require about an 85-minute drive each way from the city, ask any local… this is one of the best things to do in the area and shouldn’t be missed on any trip to Fairbanks!

Side note : If you don’t have a rental car (or want to drive yourself), you can book a guided tour to the hot springs!

After your return to Fairbanks, you have a few options. You can cozy up to a good book and a roaring fire in the summer months. Or if it’s winter, you should take a peak at the Fairbanks Aurora Tracker to see if you should be taking a quick nap before packing up your gear and hitting Murphy Dome Road for some potential aurora activity.

On this first day of your 3 days in Fairbanks, Alaska, it’s normal to be pretty jet-lagged. Unless the auroras are planning on making an appearance, it’s best to take advantage of some relaxation time so you have all the energy you need for the days ahead.

Day 2 in Fairbanks:

On the second day of your Fairbanks visit, stop into Bakery Restaurant over on College Rd. for some rich and hearty eggs benedict, country fried steak, and other popular classics. Grab a coffee to go and head on over to the state’s only Museum of the North!

With an array of unique exhibits that span from anthropology to art and history, this museum offers a comprehensive look at all aspects of Alaskan culture. Explore a variety of artifacts from native cultures as well as learn about modern-day life in Alaska through interactive displays and multimedia exhibits.

After gaining a whole new perspective on Alaskan heritage, stop into Blue Roof Bistro for some shrimp tacos or pot roast sliders! Offering the locals reliable, delicious meals day after day, this is one lunch spot you won’t want to miss during your 3 days in Fairbanks, Alaska.

Once your appetite is satisfied, head on over to Pioneer Park to witness endless fun in this Wild West-themed park . If visiting in the summer months, you’ll find shops, museums, shows, and kayak and bike rentals. Most attractions close here in the winter months, but you’ll still be able to take a self-guided tour of artifacts, buildings, and grounds.

For the evening, well, it’s about time for a local Alaskan wildlife safari. Grab your camera gear, some food, some drinks, and plenty of patience, and start making your way through the more remote neighborhoods of the city limits.

Start over on Chena Point Rd. and drive slowly along the wide-open meadows in search primarily of moose and coyotes, though bears, bald eagles, and other species have also been spotted.

As mentioned above, patience will be required as you’ll want to dedicate at least 2 hours or so of your evening to spot them. Wildlife in Alaska is most active around dawn and dusk , so plan accordingly depending on the season of your visit.

After spotting wildlife, head back to the hotel to gear up for another night of chasing the lights! If you’d rather not go alone, you can join one of the many northern lights tours!

Day 3 in Fairbanks:

To kick off the final day of your 3 days in Fairbanks, Alaska itinerary, stop into Mocha Dan’s Coffee Hut (drive-through only) for one of the best coffees you’ll have in the 49th state. For food, head to Little Owl Cafe for some fluffy waffles or to pick a treat out of their pastry case.

Be sure to fill up because this afternoon you’re heading to the Chena Lake Recreation Area for some fishing. Whether you plan on visiting in summer or in the winter, this lake is one of the best in interior Alaska for fishing due to the state’s consistent restocking of delicious species, including trout!

You have the option of joining a guided fishing tour for this excursion, but from a local’s perspective, it’s much more affordable to head to the local Alaska Outdoor Gear Rental and pick up some rods and lures to accompany you on your trip.

If visiting in the winter, you can reserve an ice house cabin by visiting the Fairbanks North Star Borough Parks & Recreation website for just $30 per day!

For your last evening in Fairbanks stop into The Pump House for one of the most “luxurious” restaurants you can find in Fairbanks. Don’t worry, casual attire is not only acceptable, but encouraged, and it truly will be one of the best meals you have in Alaska.

From seafood risotto to elk wrapped in bacon, this is one of the best places to try some local game and indulge in a delicious meal to celebrate all you’ve accomplished during your time in Fairbanks!

Then, try your luck again at catching the northern lights one last time! If you have the budget for it, you may want to try out a dog-sledding Northern Lights tour. How Alaskan!

Other things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska:

If an activity mentioned above didn’t really seem like the right fit for your travel style… no worries! There are plenty of other fun things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska ! Below are some of the most popular options!

• Snowmobiling : Snowmobiling is something that most travelers want to try on their trips to Alaska, but just know that it will come at a hefty price. The typical cost is upwards of $200 per person per hour, so this is something you would likely want to budget for ahead of time. Check out some tours here!
• Drive up the Dalton Highway to catch a glimpse of the trans-Alaska pipeline
• Dog-Sledding Tour : There’s nothing more “Alaskan” that a quintessential dog-sledding tour!
• Attend a local art Show: The Fairbanks Events website does a great job detailing all of the local art shows, pop-up galleries, and city-wide events by date, cost, and time, so you’ll always be in the know of local things to do during your visit.
• Visit the Christmas Markets , shops, and displays at the North Pole: Just a 15-minute drive from Fairbanks! The Santa Claus House is open year-round and will surely make you feel like a kid again!

Where (else) to Eat in the City:

Remember what I said about the term “luxury” and how it’s going to be perceived very differently than you may be used to in other places, well… the same goes for the term “fine dining”.

Here in Alaska, fine dining typically means jeans, a flannel, and work boots are more than acceptable.

• Pump House – Previously mentioned in the 3-day itinerary, Pump House is easily one of the best ( if not the best ) restaurants in all of Fairbanks. Offering a wide variety of seafood to local game including elk, bison, and halibut, this fine eatery’s parking lot is never empty.
• Brewsters Restaurant – Well known for their juicy hamburgers, Brewsters is serving up classic American fare at an affordable price. If you’re looking for a delicious, no-frills kind of meal, then this restaurant is sure to hit the spot!
• The Cookie Jar Restaurant – A local hit in the world of all-day breakfast, The Cookie Jar has everything you could want from classic brunch dishes to seafood, and even tasty burgers if you’re stopping in around lunchtime. Serving up a traditional diner feel with all the hospitality of home, this American restaurant makes for the perfect comfort food pitstop during your trip to Fairbanks.

Other Tips to know before visiting Fairbanks, Alaska:

Before your trip to The Last Frontier, there are some things you should know. Now, some of these pertain to the season in which you visit, but it’s good to have all of the information in case you’re still deciding between seeing the midnight sun or the midnight auroras!

• Bundle up : Fairbanks can drop into the -50s Fahrenheit (yes negative) in the winter without warning, so make sure to pack plenty of warm layers and a good winter coat!
• Bring your camera : The northern lights are an absolute must-see, so don’t forget to bring your camera or phone with you for photos and videos.
• Pack bug spray : Mosquitoes (and other bugs) can be pretty pesky during summer months so it’s best to come prepared with some insect repellent just in case.
• Explore downtown Fairbanks : There is a lot to see and do around downtown Fairbanks, from shopping for souvenirs at the local stores (The Arctic Traveler is the best), wandering through art galleries filled with local artists’ work, or simply taking a stroll along Chena River Walkway.
• Research Aurora viewing locations ahead of time : If you plan on viewing the northern lights while you’re in town, then research potential viewing locations prior to arriving as they vary greatly due to cloud coverage, tree coverage, and the number of open areas.
• Wear sunscreen : Fairbanks gets plenty of sunny days so don’t forget to pack some sunscreen to protect your skin while outdoors. This goes for even if you’re visiting in the winter – the refraction off the snow can cause serious sunburns!
• Get a fishing license : If you plan on going fishing during your stay, make sure to get a valid fishing license on the Alaska Department of Fish and Game website .
• Bring cash : Some small businesses in Fairbanks still accept only cash, so it’s best to bring along some just in case.
• Get a rental car : Fairbanks doesn’t offer reliable public transportation, so you will need a rental car during your stay.
• Have fun : Last but not least, enjoy your time in Fairbanks – it really is an incredible place!

One Weekend in Fairbanks Map

Here’s a map showing how to spend your 3 days in Fairbanks! Feel free to download and save it so you can add any other stops to your Alaskan itinerary!

3-days in Fairbanks Isn’t Enough

As you can see, there’s SO much to do in Fairbanks that one weekend would never be enough to see it all. You can customize your 3-day Fairbanks itinerary based on what interests you. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find plenty of entertaining activities to create your own fun-filled, jam-packed adventure weekend in Fairbanks.

What else would you add to this “One Weekend on the Fairbanks” Itinerary?!

Author’s Bio!

As a full-time traveler and travel blogger, Emily Concannon spent 6+ months in the Alaskan wilderness discovering the 49th state’s best-kept secrets. Now the owner of multiple blogs, including Sea to Summit Alaska , she’s on a mission to continue exploring the world to the fullest! You can follow her journey on Instagram .

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A Two Day Anchorage Itinerary

Updated April 2024 ,   2 Day Anchorage Itinerary: Anchorage in a Weekend was originally written in September 2015

Got two days in  Anchorage , Alaska and not sure what to do?

I’ll be honest, Anchorage isn’t the highlight for most tourists in Alaska. I get it, most people come to Alaska for the nature, not the cities. Pair that with high crime rates and not a whole lot of attractions, which explains why Anchorage doesn’t make most traveler’s itineraries.

With all that said I do get emails from readers that find that they will have a day or two to kill in Anchorage and want suggestions on what to do there, or just to flat out ask if they should even include Anchorage on their itinerary. So, after living near Anchorage my entire life, here is a 2 day Anchorage itinerary to show you the highlights of what the city has to offer.

Just start planning? Check out my post  Travel Alaska on a Budget

Need Travel Insurance and Evacuation Services for Alaska?

Start shopping for travel insurance plans over at  IATI Insurance . Readers of the Adventures of Nicole get a 5% discount off your plan.

The Adventures of Nicole partners with Global Rescue to offer the world’s leading medical evacuation and security advisory services. To travel with peace of mind, shop evacuation coverage at Global Rescue .

Day 1 In Anchorage

One your first day in Anchorage, plan to spend it getting to know the city a little better by bicycle, museum, and good food.

Start by grabbing breakfast over at  Bear’s Tooth Grill  (don’t go into the theatre side though, the breakfast at the theatre is far inferior). Hint- my favorite is the Cotija tacos. Another local favorite is  Snow City Cafe  located in downtown Anchorage.

Next, head downtown and spend a couple of hours over at the  Anchorage Museum.   The first floor has the Imaginarium, which is a great place to take kids if you’ll be traveling with little ones.

The second floor has all kinds of Alaska native artifacts and displays as well as informative information on Alaska history. The third floor usually displays traveling exhibitions, so be sure to check the website to find out what’s there when you’ll be in Anchorage. Admission is $18 for adults, $15 for Alaska residents, $12 for kids (3-12 years), and children 2 years and under are free.

If it’s a weekend in the summertime after your museum visit, make your way over to the  Anchorage market  real quick to have a look around and grab a quick snack from one of the many local food vendors. If it’s outside the May-September months that the Anchorage Market operates, I’d recommend heading for a light lunch at one of the many cafes around downtown Anchorage.

After the market or lunch, head out on bicycles for an active afternoon along the Coastal Trail. You can rent bicycles from  Downtown Anchorage Bicycle Rentals  (they even rent bicycles for winter riding too). Spend the remainder of the afternoon cruising the Coastal Trail with scenic views of the inlet and Knik Arm.

After returning your bicycles back, and quick change, head back out on the town for dinner. I recommend trying  South ,  Crow’s Nest ,  Crush ,  Orso , or  Spenard Roadhouse  (I recommend trying to make reservations in advance).

After dinner, you can continue on your night and hop around the downtown Anchorage bars.

Traveling to Anchorage on a budget? Check out  Free Things to do in Anchorage

Day 2 In Anchorage

The second day of your weekend in Anchorage will take you just south of the city on one of the most scenic drives in the world to nearby Girdwood.

Start day 2 of your Anchorage Itinerary with brunch over at  South .

After breakfast, take a drive down the Seward Highway for some scenic views, slowly making your way to Girdwood. The Seward Highway has many pull-offs for photo opts, sightseeing, and wildlife viewing.

Looking for more ideas? Check out my  Anchorage Travel Guide With 20 Things To Do

Once you arrive in Girdwood, I recommend taking on a small trek to enjoy the town a little better. You can do a brief walk to Virgin Creek Falls, a longer meandering down the Winner Creek Trail, or if you’re looking for something intense (and it’s summer) you could try the Northface of Alyeska.

After you’ve burned off breakfast, grab lunch at one of Girdwood’s many restaurants. Recommended restaurants are  Jack Sprat  and  Chair 5 . If you want to sneak in an afternoon beer head over to  Girdwood Brewery .

After lunch, head back for Anchorage making all the stops you skipped along the Seward Highway on the way down. Upon returning to Anchorage, if you’re traveling with kids, go over to the  Alaska Zoo  to see some of Alaska’s animals.

If the zoo doesn’t interest you, I recommend making the hike up  Flattop , to spend the late afternoon enjoying some panoramic views of the city from there. The Flattop Hike is a 3.3 miles return from the Glen Alps Trailhead.

After the hike up the mountain, you’ll probably be hungry. Time to head over to one of the best pizza places in the country,  Moose’s Tooth . If you can stand to wait for a table (no reservations) head to the restaurant, if not call and order some pizza and then pick it up along with a growler and bring it back to your room.

Where To Stay In Anchorage

Basecamp Anchorage |  Booking.com  |

Inlet Tower Hotel & Suites |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

The Hotel Captain Cook |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Don’t want to do the planning? Check out these tours!

• Best of Alaska in a Day Tour from Anchorage

• Price: $140.00
• Anchorage City Tour with Alaska Native Heritage Center

• Price: $99.00
• Alaska Brewery and Railroad Experience from Anchorage

• Price: $279.00
• Turnagain Arm and Alaska Wildlife Tour from Anchorage

Have Any Questions About This 2 Day Anchorage Itinerary?

Ask your Anchorage in a weekend questions in the comments section below!

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MacDonald Spit, My Favorite Coastal Alaska Destination

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The Ultimate Alaska Road Trip Itinerary

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14 thoughts on “2 day anchorage itinerary”.

Thanks for the great ideas for Anchorage!

Good suggestions! A friend recommended your blog when I told her about my upcoming plans to visit Alaska in 2019. My first stop in Anchorage, so this helps give me a rough outline. Thank you 🙂

Glad to hear that you’ve found this helpful. I hope you enjoy your time in Alaska and in Anchorage.

Hey Nicki, Myself and my boyfriend are planning a trip to Alaska and were looking for things to do on a couple day stop-over in Anchorage between activities we wanted to do on the Kenai Peninsula and up toward Denali National Park. I’m very happy to have come across your blog during planning stages, it’s been very helpful 🙂

Hi Priyanka, A couple days in Anchorage will be nice in between so much outdoor adventuring! Hope you guys have a blast in Alaska. You can always let me know if you have any questions that come up.

Good ideas I will keep in mind for my upcoming visit!

Hope you have a great trip to AK!

Will keep this in mind for some our visitors this summer for reference, along with your free things in Anchorage post. Most of our relatives coming want to explore Denali and Kenai Fjords but aren’t sure what to do in Anchorage.

Ah, the influx of family is soon to start! Definitely check out my ‘One Week in Alaska’ roadtrip series for potential ideas. Lot and lots to see in AK 🙂

No prob! Have an amazing time

Good jam-packed itinerary. I think I may try to follow this with a few addendums of course when I’m in Anchorage for a couple days after my cruise this summer.

Of course, fill in the blanks with what interests you! I would like to do one of the Inside Passage cruises sometime. Have fun out there.

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Alaska (AK) » 15 Best Romantic (Weekend) Getaways in Alaska

15 Best Romantic (Weekend) Getaways in Alaska

Alaska is a once in a lifetime vacation destination, and the perfect place for couples who are looking for something both unique and romantic. Alaska is the northernmost state in the US, and the size alone nearly covers half of the United States. The geography of Alaska is pristine and stunning, with islands, shorelines, volcanoes and mountains.

Despite Alaska’s reputation for being cold and snowy, this state does get summertime, despite the interior of Alaska being a subarctic climate. In some parts of Alaska, the temperatures in the summer can get up to an average of 70 degrees. Despite the cool weather, Alaska is an adventure from start to finish. The major cities and small towns will certainly hold adventure for any couple who decides to visit.

Let’s have a look at the best romantic (weekend) getaways in Alaska :

1. Tutka Bay Lodge

Nestled near Homer, the Tutka Bay Lodge is settled at the entrance of Kachemak Bay, surrounded by mountain peaks and beautiful fjords. The Tutka Bay Lodge is seated on seven acres of property, with both a main lodge and six separate, private accommodations that are all interconnected by a boardwalk that raises above the ground. This unique location is perfect for the adventurous couple.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner is served onsite at the Lodge, with chefs that prepare Alaska cuisine with local and organic ingredients from their own gardens or local farmers. Tutka Bay Lodge offers an array of guides trips, from day trips around the surrounding area, to overnight adventures in the Alaskan wilderness.

Website: http://withinthewild.com/lodges/tutka-bay/

2. Grandma’s Feather Bed

This Juneau bed and breakfast boasts that perfect home away from home feeling that so many people enjoy during a vacation. Grandma’s Feather Bed is a Victorian style house-turned-hotel, and there are 14 different luxury suites that couples can choose from, surrounded by all of the excitement that Juneau has to offer.

Each guest is welcome to indulge in a full, hot breakfast every morning, while Grandma’s Restaurant onsite serves lunch and dinner. No matter the season, Grandma’s Feather Bed’s location makes it a great place to stay for couples who are looking forward to either skiing in the wintertime, or exploring nearby hiking trails during the warmer months.

Website: https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotel-details.02012.html

3. 11th Avenue Bed and Breakfast

Located just a few blocks from downtown Anchorage, the 11th Avenue Bed and Breakfast is great for couples who want to be close to the excitement, while still having a quiet place to retreat to at the end of the day. There are five different themed bedrooms and suites for guests to choose from, which will enhance any couple’s need for a little bit of seclusion.

A two-course, family style breakfast is served between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM every morning, with fruit, yogurt, and a hot, protein-based entree to keep your energy up. Anchorage has all kinds of shops, restaurants and entertainment activities to choose from. 11th Avenue B&B can also help guests plan their Alaska adventure, from parasailing to skiing.

Website: http://www.11thavenue.net/

4. Denali Fireside Cabins and Suites

Located just shy of downtown Talkeetna, the Denali Fireside Cabins and Suites offers an array of different accommodations, from hotel-style suites to private cabins. Each room includes custom log furniture and gas fireplaces for those chilly evenings, while the individual log cabins offer kitchens, living areas and bedrooms.

The cabins and suites offer a kitchen area, equipped with fridge and microwave, while the nearby downtown area of Talkeetna is just minutes away, filled with restaurants. For an adventure, there are the nearby Denai Zip Lines and the Talkeetna ATV tours. For sightseeing, there’s a Bush Floatplane service or an Air Taxi.

Website: http://www.denalifireside.com/

5. The Hotel Alyeska

This resort is a year-round destination, perfect for couples who are looking for a getaway for any season. The Hotel Alyeska is surrounding by the magnificent Alaskan wilderness, from pine forest to mountain peaks. There 304 luxury guest rooms and suites, some with views of the nearby mountain ranges and pine forests.

Seven Glacier’s is the Hotel Alyeska’s gourmet restaurant that offers stunning, panoramic views of the Chugach Mountain Range. There are also several other restaurants located in the hotel, from steakhouse to fine dining. The Hotel Alyeska is home to many different activities, from skiing to summer kayaking, as well as many relaxing, sightseeing tours.

Website: http://www.alyeskaresort.com/hotel

6. Alaska’s Capital Inn

The Alaska’s Capital Inn is a bed and breakfast, originally built in 1906 during the gold rush, which has now been restored into a beautiful inn. The Inn is full of antique furnishings and restorations, while also offering luxury amenities. There are six uniquely decorated guest rooms, as well as a Governor’s suite.

Each morning, a family-style home cooked breakfast awaits each guest, with homemade granola, Alaskan sourdough pancakes and delicious bacon. The staff at Alaska’s Capital Inn is happy to assist couples looking for things to do in the area, from ice climbing and mountain touring for the wintertime adventurers, to kayaking and whale watching.

Website: http://www.alaskacapitalinn.com/

7. Camai Bed and Breakfast

This family owned and run bed and breakfast is located in Anchorage, and it is one of the city’s oldest operating inns. The Camai Bed and Breakfast is surrounded by both the beautiful Alaska scenery as well as nearby Anchorage locations. There are three different flower-themed suites, each with their own private bathrooms.

During summer stays, guests can expect a full breakfast, with an expanded continental breakfast during the winter months. The Camai Bed and Breakfast is nearby so many exciting Anchorage activities, from the Alaska Zoo to the Alaska Museum of Natural History. Not to mention all of the outdoor fun, like skiing and hiking trails, or even whale watching.

Website: https://www.camaibnb.com/

8. Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge

This beautiful lodge is located on the ridge that overlooks the town of Talkeetna, surrounded by stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge offers 212 guest rooms and suites, with three suites that face the gorgeous mountain side, while many other suites offer other, partial views of the mountain.

The Foraker Dining Room offers an array of Alaskan game and seafood, with views of both the Denali and Alaska mountain ranges. For a lighter meal, the Base Camp Bistro offers a light breakfast, lunch or dinner. The Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge is the perfect hub for the outdoorsy couple who is looking for a place to retreat to after a long day of exploring the surrounding Alaskan wilderness through guides tours or solo hikes.

Website: https://www.alaskacollection.com/lodging/talkeetna-alaskan-lodge/

9. Pearson’s Pond Inn

The Pearson’s Pond Inn is located in Juneau, and is one of this city’s finest boutique bed and breakfasts. The Pearson’s Pond Inn is perfect for couples who are seeking that special kind of privacy that makes a romantic vacation so fun. Each suite has a private entrance, and the property is surrounding by beautiful ponds and forest views.

Guests are welcomed to a complimentary breakfast each morning during the summer months, with an array of delicious breakfast foods to start the day right. The property is surrounded by gardens and ponds, as well as a gazebo or two to enjoy the natural surroundings. Pearson’s Pond Inn also offers a wellness spa for couples who are looking to rejuvenate from their day to day lives.

Website: http://www.pearsonspond.com/

10. Sheep Mountain Lodge

Open all year round, Sheep Mountain Lodge is perfect for both a summertime and wintertime escape from every couple. Sheep Mountain Lodge offers four premier cabins, seven cozy classic cabins, and a guesthouse with three different private rooms. Depending on each couple’s desire for seclusion, Sheep Mountain Lodge has just the right accommodations for everyone.

The onsite restaurant is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with seasonal specials and local, fresh Alaskan cuisine like seafood and steak. Couples are free to enjoy a quiet weekend stay in their cabins, or explore the nearby activities, like river rafting, glacier hiking or flightseeing with local bush pilots.

Website: http://sheepmountain.com/

11. Homer Inn and Spa

Located in Homer, in the downtown oceanfront area, Homer Inn and Spa offers guests a unique Alaskan experience, right up against the water. The Homer Inn and Spa offers both suites at the inn, as well as oceanfront villas or off-site townhouses located in downtown Homer. Whether you’re looking for a view of the water, or a place amid the downtown excitement, Homer Inn and Spa has what each guest is looking for.

Homer Inn and Spa doesn’t offer breakfast or a restaurant, but there are many breakfast cafe and restaurants nearby for lunch and dinner. Homer Inn and Spa does offer an oceanfront hot tub, as well as a 2,000-sq. foot deck that overlooks the waters, as well as a fire ring area. The Inn itself is just a 10-minute walk from downtown Homer.

Website: http://homerinnandspa.com/

12. Hatcher Pass Bed and Breakfast

Hatcher Pass Bed and Breakfast offers a unique, authentic Alaskan vacation with log cabin rentals. Each cabin is fully equipped with furnishings, private baths and every luxury amenity one might need on vacation. Couples will love both the privacy of the cabin, as well as being surrounded by the Alaskan wildlife just outside the door.

Each cabin comes fully equipped with a kitchen area that can be used for any of the guest’s needs. And breakfast foods come stocked in your cabin for you to prepare! All the local activities around Hatcher Pass await the adventurous couple, from Zipline Tours to nearby hiking trails, along with the scenic and stunning Glenn Highway.

Website: http://hatcherpassbb.com/

13. Ocean House Inn

Located on the oceanfront in Homer, the Ocean House Inn overlooks the Kachemak Bay and is surrounded by the stunning mountain ranges. The Ocean House Inn offers nine different accommodations, from oceanfront suite, two several different condos. Each room has a private entrance, as well as a private bath.

While the Ocean House Inn doesn’t have an onsite restaurant, the nearby Homer restaurants are all within quick distance, from casual dining to delicious Alaskan seafood. Nearby the Ocean House Inn are many Alaskan adventures for couples to enjoy, like Trails End Horse Adventures and the St. Augustine’s Kayak Tours.

Website: http://www.homeroceanhouse.com/

14. Kantishna Roadhouse

Couples who are looking for an exclusive and remote experience will want to look into the Kantishna Roadhouse. This all-inclusive experience is located 90 miles into the Denali National Park, and it’s very secluded. Guests stay in deluxe cabin accommodations after a private bus transports you to the heart of Denali Park.

All meals at the Kantishna Roadhouse are included, and eaten family style with fresh, Alaskan ingredients, some of which are even grown directly on the property. All the activities provided by the Kantishna Roadhouse are included, from guided hiking tours to fly fishing and even sight-seeing the local wildlife.

Website: https://www.kantishnaroadhouse.com/

15. The Historic Anchorage Hotel

This 1916 historic hotel has been renovated and updated for the modern guest, located right in the heart of downtown Anchorage. The Historic Anchorage Hotel is part of the National Register of Historic Places, and offers both luxury amenities and a rich history. There are 26 guest rooms to choose from, many with antique furnishings.

Breakfast is included with the price of your stay, which offers a continental breakfast of Belgian waffles, fresh fruit and more. Anchorage is the perfect hub for all your Alaskan adventures, with the Historic Anchorage Hotel the best place to return to at the end of the day, after a wildlife cruise, or just a long day hiking through the pines.

Website: http://www.historicanchoragehotel.com/

15 Best Romantic (Weekend) Getaways in Alaska:

• Tutka Bay Lodge
• Grandma’s Feather Bed
• 11th Avenue Bed and Breakfast
• Denali Fireside Cabins and Suites
• The Hotel Alyeska
• Alaska’s Capital Inn
• Camai Bed and Breakfast
• Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge
• Pearson’s Pond Inn
• Sheep Mountain Lodge
• Homer Inn and Spa
• Hatcher Pass Bed and Breakfast
• Ocean House Inn
• Kantishna Roadhouse
• The Historic Anchorage Hotel

Anchorage is a perfect home base for these 10 day trips

Mar 31, 2021 • 9 min read

Alaska Railroad Glacier Discovery train in Chugach National Forest © Alamy Stock Photo

Locals like to say that Anchorage is only 30 minutes from Alaska: wedged between 5000ft peaks and an inlet filled with salmon and whales, the Big Apple of the north is unlike any other city. Indeed, Anchorage makes a prime home base from which to explore both Alaska's small town charms and big, cinematic scenery one day trip at a time.

From artsy, mural-strewn 'bergs to glacier hikes, from stunning lakes to cozy taverns, from fun road trips to train rides, you might be surprised to see just how much of Alaska is accessible from Anchorage. These are our ten favorite day trips.

Editor's note: During COVID-19, please check the latest travel restrictions before planning any trip and always follow government health advice. Events may be subject to change. 

1. Spencer Glacier

Encircled by mighty peaks brimming with glaciers, Girdwood is a laid-back antidote to the bustle of Anchorage. Home to the luxurious Alyeska Ski Resort and the fabled  Girdwood Forest Fair , Girdwood is a dog-and-kid kind of town, with excellent hiking, fine restaurants and a feel-good vibe that will have you staying longer than anticipated.

Getting there:  Ride the Alaska Railroad to Spencer Glacier, where you can hike a 3.4-mile trail to the face of the glacier or join a guided walk with a United States Forestry Service Ranger. Whistle Stop hikers have from 1:25pm to 4:40pm to complete the hike and meet the train for the return. 

2. Turnagain Arm

The drive out of Anchorage along Turnagain Arm is well worth the price of a train ticket or rental car. Sure, it might be quicker (and probably cheaper) to fly, but staying on the ground will make you appreciate just how close to the wilderness Anchorage really is.

Turnagain Arm Trail , an easy 11-mile hike, begins at Potter Trailhead (Mile 115). Originally used by Alaska Natives, the convenient route has since been used by Russian trappers, gold miners and happy hikers. The trail, with a mountain goat’s view of Turnagain Arm, alpine meadows and beluga whales, can also be accessed at the McHugh Creek (Mile 112), Rainbow (Mile 108) and Windy (Mile 107).

Meanwhile,  Potter Marsh  (Mile 117) was created in 1916, when railroad construction dammed several streams. You can stretch your legs along the 1500ft boardwalk while spying on ducks, songbirds, grebes and gulls.

Bird Ridge Trail  starts with a wheelchair-accessible loop at Mile 102, then continues with a steep, popular and well-marked path that reaches a 3500ft overlook at Mile 2; this is a traditional turnaround point for folks in a hurry. Or you can continue another 4 miles to higher peaks and even better views from sunny Bird Ridge, a top spot for rock climbing.

Getting there: Turnagain Arm is just south of Anchorage and can be reached on the scenic Seward Highway – a worthwhile day trip in and of itself.

Perched on the edge of Resurrection Bay, Seward offers out-of-this-world views of water, sky, mountain and forest, and is easily accessed by road, boat and rail. Because of its size (and its history as a railroad port), there is plenty of nightlife and there are lots of good restaurants in the picturesque old-time downtown area.

Slurp local oysters backed with champagne at The Cookery or cozy up by the massive wood stove at Resurrect Art Coffee House Gallery. The Lost Lake Trail offers gorgeous views of Seward from alpine meadows. Stoney Creek Canopy Adventures gives you a unique perspective of Seward from its treetop ziplines. Or you can simply stroll the town and admire the many murals – go to the Painted Whale to get a tour led by one of the artists.

Meanwhile, the 127 miles of the Seward Hwy is all Scenic Byway, and there are plenty of turnoffs for gawking and snapping photos. The mileposts along the highway show distances from Seward (Mile 0) to Anchorage (Mile 127). The Turnagain Arm section of this road is from Anchorage to just past the Portage Glacier turnoff (Mile 79).

Getting there: It's only two and a half hours to Seward from Anchorage by car or four by train, but if either seems too long to spend on a day trip, you can also fly – though that's the more expensive option.

4. Kenai Fjords National Park

Kenai Fjords National Park  was created in 1980 to protect 587,000 acres of Alaska’s most awesome, impenetrable wilderness. Crowning the park is the massive Harding Ice Field; from it, countless tidewater glaciers pour down, carving the coast into dizzying fjords. Lucky for visitors, the park is free. The majority of visitors either take a quick trip to Exit Glacier’s face or splurge on a tour-boat cruise along the coast. 

From the  Exit Glacier Nature Center , the Outwash Plain Trail is an easy three-quarter-mile walk to the glacier’s alluvial plain. The Edge of the Glacier Trail leaves the first loop and climbs steeply to an overlook at the side of the glacier before returning. Both trails make for a short hike that will take one or two hours; you can return along the half-mile nature trail through cottonwood forest, alder thickets and old glacial moraines before emerging at the ranger station.

Getting there: It's two and a half hours from Anchorage to Kenai Fjords via AK-1 S and State Hwy 9.

5. Eagle River

As you drive out of Anchorage, you’ll soon parallel Knik Arm, while the Chugach Mountains stay to your right. Small communities dot either side of the road, but Eagle River and Eklutna offer the best access to the mountains. Both communities are worthy of a day trip from Anchorage, but to escape the hustle of the city, you can use these small towns as a base for exploring Anchorage and the wilds around it.

Eagle River has something of a city center; the Eagle River Town Square is off Business Blvd and has just about every business you’ll need. The  Bear Paw Festival  is worth the trip just for the Slippery Salmon Olympics, which involves racing with a Hula Hoop, serving tray and, of course, a large dead fish. Most people, however, come here for the drive down Eagle River Rd or to take a hike.

Getting there:  Eagle River is less than half an hour from Anchorage along Glenn Highway / AK-1 North.

6. Whittier

Whittier is a wonderfully weird Cold War anachronism set on the edge of some sublime coastal wilderness where rugged fjords dispatch tumbling glaciers into Prince William Sound. Even by Alaskan standards, this is a bizarre outpost. The “town” is dominated by two Cold War military installations: the hopelessly ruined Buckner building and the equally incongruous Begich Towers, a 14-story skyscraper that houses most of Whittier’s population.

Activities in the area include following a marked historical walk around the spooky monuments to Whittier’s Cold War past. You can also take a deluxe boat cruise past a profusion of Prince William Sound’s glaciers, or head uphill on the Portage Pass Trail for an immediate wilderness fix and great views at this trail two miles outside of Whittier.

Getting there:  Arriving in Whittier from Anchorage after a spectacular ride on the Alaska Railroad  alongside the waters of Turnagain Arm is a special experience.

In one direction, just west of the Eklutna Lake Rd exit at Mile 26.5 of the Glenn Highway, you have the 350-year-old Alaska Native village of Eklutna, home to  Eklutna Village Historical Park . In the other direction is the gorgeous 7-mile-long Eklutna Lake, which offers lots of recreation opportunities, including kayaking, biking and hiking on 27 miles of trails.  It’s worth every minute once the sky suddenly opens, unveiling a stunning valley with a glacier-and-peak-ringed lake, the largest body of water in Chugach State Park, at its center. 

Getting there:  Eklutna Lake is 10 miles east of the highway on Eklutna Lake Road. 

8. Talkeetna

Downtown Talkeetna is a strip of gift shops, guide services, restaurants and old-school saloons. And it's awesome: artsy, playful, infused with community spirit, but also self-aware enough to market itself to the thousands who come here seeking a view of Denali and a dip in the funky energy that permeates the mountain's main climbing base.

The  Talkeetna Historical Society Museum  is a great introduction to the area's indigenous and frontier past. So is the Belle's Interpretive Trail, which strolls past interpretive signs laying out local history. The Talkeetna Riverfront Park affords great views of Alaska's scenery, not to mention fish doing their best acrobatic routines. 

If you're here for the outdoors, roll down the local waterways with Talkeetna's knowledgeable river guides – if you're lucky, you'll get a view of Denali from the Chulitna River. You can also hire an Alaska Nature Guide for trips to local lakes or even a trek into the bush by plane. Zipline tours are available in the area, as is dogsledding and salmon fishing charters.

Getting there:  Talkeetna is just two hours from Anchorage via AK-1 S and State Hwy 9, and can be reached by car or bus.

Filled with old farming-related buildings, Palmer at times feels more like the Midwest than Alaska, except that it’s ringed by dramatic mountains. Many downtown venues exude 1930s ambience, with antique furniture and wood floors. For those who want to skip the city hassles and high prices of Anchorage, Palmer is an excellent option with just enough choices in lodging, restaurants and sights to keep you satisfied for a day trip or a weekend getaway.

Nearby Palmer, the town of Knik boasts a rich sled-dog history, since it's the home of many Alaskan mushers (and checkpoint 4 on the race route). For more information about this uniquely Alaskan race, stop in at Iditarod Trail Headquarters. Outside, you can get a short sled-dog ride (around US$10, from 9am to 5pm) on a wheeled dogsled.

Getting there:  Palmer is just under an hour from Anchorage via AK-1 North or about an hour and a half by train.

Hope has beautiful views of Turnagain Arm, a quaint and historic downtown, wonderful gold-rush-era relics, and incredible camping and hiking opportunities. Life here moves a little slower. It's close enough to Anchorage to attract a weekend city crowd, but tucked away enough to stay tiny and quiet. It's authentic, pioneering, friendly and esoteric. Most tourist services close October to May. 

Sixmile Creek  is serious white water, with thrilling – and dangerous – rapids through deep gorges that survivors describe as ‘the best roller coaster in Alaska.’ The first two canyons are rated Class IV; the third canyon is a big, bad Class V. It's a four- to five-hour round-trip. Dress warmly and bring extra clothes.

The Hope area also provides numerous opportunities for the amateur panner, including a 20-acre claim that the US Forest Service (USFS) has set aside near the Resurrection Pass trailhead for recreational mining.

Getting there: The Seward Highway will get you to Hope in about two hours.

You may also like:  Why Alaska's stunning coast is best seen by ferry Under the Radar USA: Fairbanks is Alaska’s Golden Heart 5 Alaska adventures that offer a new perspective

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Plan Your Trip to Anchorage, Alaska

Plan the ultimate trip to Anchorage, Alaska, for memories that will last a lifetime. Maps, transportation schedules, and Alaska travel tips make trip planning a breeze. This website and the free,  Official Anchorage Visitors Guide  include a business directory of local businesses that showcase the best of Anchorage and Southcentral Alaska. Use the links throughout this site to send information requests directly to local businesses and get quick answers.

Alaska vacation deals  and Anchorage travel packages offer the perfect opportunity to see Anchorage and the entire state. Many Alaska vacation deals and tours include motorcoach and train excursions, overnight  accommodations , and activities. Book an  Alaska Railroad  trip, take an Alaska  flightseeing tour  or  day cruise ,  or stay in a remote Alaska  lodge .

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