alaska tourism places

15 Incredible & Best Places to Visit in Alaska

Alaska is the largest state in the USA, a vast landmass in the northwest of the country that’s separated from the rest of the states by Canada, and icy waterways. 

Alaska is remote, it’s isolated and it’s utterly stunning. While the cities, such as Anchorage and Juneau, have a lot to offer visitors, the best places to visit in Alaska are found in the wilderness. 

You can hike through spectacular national parks in summer, fly over epic mountain peaks such as Denali and land on dramatic glaciers.

You can learn about the indigenous people of Alaska, or get seriously remote with a trip to the Aleutian Islands. 

There’s so much to do, and to inspire your adventure, here are the best places to visit in Alaska! 

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Alaska (Regional Guide)

15 Best Places to Visit in Alaska

Table of Contents

Juneau is the understated state capital, and it’s one of the best places to visit in Alaska. 

This might be the state capital but it’s really just a small town, and having no road connections, it’s also one of the most isolated places in the USA. 

But Juneau has a lot to offer, including some excellent museums and cultural centers delving into both the indigenous and the European history of Alaska.

Like anywhere in the state though, the best sights are found in the outdoors. Visit the beautiful Mendenhall Glacier on the edge of the city, take boat tours through the Fjords in search of wildlife, whales, and dolphins, and ride the Aerial Tramway to the summit of Mount Roberts for the beat vistas in Juneau. 

Whale watching and visiting the Mendenhall Glacier are two of the most popular activities around Juneau.

Check them both off your list on this half-day combo tour that includes flexible departure times and round-trip transportation from Mt. Roberts Tramway.

2. Anchorage

It might not be the capital, but Anchorage is easily Alaska’s best-known city.  Anchorage is the largest city in the state and it’s much better connected than Juneau, the capital.

You can explore the city’s best museums, restaurants, cafes, and bars in Downtown, but save plenty of time to travel into the wilderness. 

From Anchorage, you’re a short flightseeing trip away from epic mountains and glaciers, while along the coast you can enjoy hiking and cycling trails, or take a boat along the Fjords. 

Anchorage is where the city meets the wilds, and there are few other places in the USA where you’ll find moose and bears casually strolling through the streets! 

Get to know Anchorage on this 3-hour guided tour that takes you around the city’s top sites , including the port, Earthquake Park, Lake Hood, and Bootleggers Cove.

Gain further insight into Alaska’s indigenous cultures with an upgrade to visit the renowned Alaska Native Heritage Center.

3. Fairbanks 

Fairbanks is one of the most remote places in the USA. The small city is found in the wild interior of the state, and it’s one of the best places to visit in Alaska. 

Fairbanks is a long way from anywhere, but it’s the largest city away from the coast, and the second-largest city in Alaska after Anchorage. 

This is the hub for the region and if you’re looking to explore the real wilds of Alaska then Fairbanks makes the perfect base.

In winter, you can spot the Northern Lights from the city, or marvel at ice sculptures across the city.

In summer you can hike and search for wildlife, and all year round you can visit the excellent Fairbanks Museum of the North.

Get to know Alaska’s past and present on this 5.5-hour tour in Fairbanks led by an informative guide .

Enjoy the Museum of the North’s story of Alaska’s natural and cultural heritage, and admire the art installations at the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitor Center.

4. Denali National Park 

One of the best places to visit in Alaska is the legendary Denali National Park. 

Named for Denali, the highest mountain peak in North America , this is the most famous national Park in Alaska. 

While you might not be climbing the mountain, which rises to almost 7000 meters in height, you can enjoy hiking in summer and snow sports in winter. 

You can reach Denali in 5 hours by car from Anchorage, but the best way to travel here is to take the train or to join a flightseeing tour that flies over the park and around the mountain. You might even be able to land on a glacier. 

Let someone else take care of planning and driving on this Denali backcountry excursion .

A driver and guide take you sightseeing along the full 92.5 miles (150 kilometers) of the Denali National Park Road to the Backcountry Lodge.

After lunch there, choose between gold panning, a naturalist-guided hike, or a botany walk. For convenience, you’re picked up directly from major hotels near Denali.

5. Chugach State Park

Even closer to Anchorage, you can find one of the best places to visit in Alaska. Chugach State Park quite literally begins where the boundaries of the city end. 

This beautiful state park is home to a huge variety of wildlife, and you’ll quickly spot the likes of bears and moose, classic Alaskan animals, in their natural habitat. 

Get out of the city and deeper into the Alaskan wilderness than is typical, on this great sightseeing tour .

This small-group tour takes you to Chugach National Forest, Beluga Point, Portage Glacier, and more to spot brown bears, wolves, bison, and belugas.

6. Lake Clark National Park 

One of the most beautiful places to visit in Alaska is Lake Clark National Park . 

Located just 100 miles away from Anchorage it’s also incredibly accessible. Lake Clark is a huge, jaw-dropping lake that glistens in glorious shades of blue and turquoise in the sunshine. 

As well as lakes and rivers though, the national park is well known for its steaming volcanic peaks, and wildlife.

The waterways are home to huge populations of salmon, and the salmon attract plenty of bears in the spring and summer. 

7. Gates of the Arctic National Park  

Head to the far north of the state to explore one of the most remote, yet one of the best places to visit in Alaska. 

This is the place to travel to if you want to see the Arctic Circle because this national park is found entirely within the Arctic Circle.

In fact, this is the most northerly national park in the United States, and even getting here will be a challenge in itself. 

Make the long journey to the Gates of the Arctic National Park, and you’ll be able to explore this icy realm and delve deep into the local communities that have adapted to thrive in this cold part of the world. 

Discover the Alaskan wilderness on this 3 or 4-day guided trip from Fairbanks that includes overnight accommodation . Soak up spectacular scenery at the Arctic National Park, perhaps spotting wildlife like grizzlies and sheep.

Enjoy plenty of hikes, including one on the high plateau of Finger Mountain, check out an Alaskan oil field, and learn about the region’s gold-mining history and more.

8. Coldfoot and Wiseman 

Coldfoot and Wiseman are two unique villages found in the Arctic. These are two famous pit stops on the road north, home to just a few residents and a couple of bed and breakfasts and camping areas. 

They primarily supply and rest stops, but they are much more than this too.

Spend the night on your way north in a truly authentic Arctic community that’s often cut off from the world for many of the long winter months. 

9. Chena Hot Springs 

The Chena Hot Springs is one of the best places to visit in Alaska, especially if you’re looking to escape the cold. 

Take a trip to the Chena Hot Springs, just a quick 50-mile detour from Fairbanks, and you’ll be able to soak up the natural mineral water, warm up in the arctic climate and enjoy some beautiful surroundings. 

You can stay at the Chena Hot Springs Resort if you’re looking for a slice of luxury in the wilderness. 

Discover Alaska’s natural hot springs and amazing ice sculptures on a full-day tour to Chena Hot Springs .

Enjoy a scenic 60-mile (95-km) drive from your hotel to Chena Hot Springs, where you can soak in the large outdoor pool of this legendary resort.

Tour how Chena Hot Springs makes use of geothermal energy to power the resort, and check out the sculptures in the Aurora Ice Museum.

10. Glacier Bay National Park 

Close to the city of Juneau, you can find one of the best places to visit in Alaska. 

Glacier Bay National Park , as the name would suggest, is home to some of Alaska’s most impressive glacial landscapes.

Many of the glaciers drop straight into the bay itself, and the best way to see them is to take a boat ride or to kayak in the shadow of these icy behemoths. 

11. Kenai Fjords

Kenai Fjords are one of the best places to visit in Alaska. This beautiful, protected national park is located off the Kenai Peninsula where you can find the largest icefield in the USA. 

The best way to explore the waterways and glaciers, if of course by taking a boat cruise. 

Watch the Alaskan wilderness awaken on this 6-hour morning cruise through Kenai Fjords National Park from Seward . Cruise past alpine and tidewater glaciers among the fjords and take in a bounty of wildlife.

Enjoy a delicious lunch on board, and visit the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge for great views of seabird rookeries.

12. Katmai National Park

Alaska is home to a huge number of national parks, but one not to miss will always be the Katmai National Park. 

The huge national park is centered around an enormous volcano, and this is the best place in the country to see large numbers of brown bears in the wild. 

13. Skagway 

If you’re looking for a destination that’s not just about the landscapes and wildlife then take a trip to the town of Skagway. 

Located along the Inside Passage, Skagway was an important hub during the Klondike Gold Rush era and much of the town has been preserved into a historic relic from these boom days. 

You can visit Klondike inspired museums and heritage buildings and even ride the old gold rush era steam engines along the railroad. 

This is not a run-of-the-mill sled excursion, it packs in several fun activities and concludes with a treat that’s hard not to love.

Follow your guide on a short tour of downtown Skagway , hop on a Unimog for a ride up a mountain, and then take a sled ride with Alaskan huskies through Tongass National Park.

Afterward, get a chance to spend time with husky puppies.

14. Aleutian Islands

The Aleutian Islands are one of the best places to visit in Alaska, but getting there isn’t exactly easy. 

These distant islands spread from the mainland, west into the Bering Sea, and they are comprised of a large number of volcanic Islands and atolls, only a few of which are inhabited.

The islands have a unique history and were, in fact, the scene of a fierce battle between invading Japanese forces and defending Allied troops.

A few of the islands were occupied, making this the only part of the USA to be occupied during World War II by the Japanese. 

Today you can not only explore unknown battlefields, but you can marvel at the isolation and Remote beauty of the volcanoes and peaks on these dramatic Alaskan islands. 

15. Inside Passage 

The Inside Passage is one of the most spectacular travel routes in North America and one of the best places to visit in Alaska. 

The Inside Passage is the route that’s often taken by cruise ships , and a route that was taken by pioneering colonists and explorers on their way north in the 19th century. 

The sheltered and relatively calm Inside Passage takes ships along the Canadian coastline and into Alaska, reaching Juneau.

Along the way the views and the scenery are mesmerizing, and this really is the best way to arrive in the state! 

More on Alaska:

• Best Time to Visit Alaska: Month by Month Breakdown
• 13 UNREAL Things to Do in Juneau, Alaska
• 15 Cannot Miss Things to do in Anchorage
• 21 Alluring Things to do in Alaska
• 13 Epic Things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska (Besides Northern Lights)
• 5 Best Alaska Road Trip Routes (Ultimate Planning Guide!)
• Alaska National Parks: The Fabulous 8
• Is Spring the Best Time to Cruise Alaska?

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I have always been an outdoorsman so becoming an adventure traveler was just the next natural step. I love nature, I love to get off the beaten path and I like to explore. I enjoy scuba diving and cars. And yes, Lina and I have a naked dog.

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Best Places to Visit

Alaska's National Parks

Guide to Glacier Bay National Park

Guide to Denali National Park

Things to Do in Fairbanks

Things to Do in Ketchikan

Things to Do in Anchorage

RVing in Alaska

Must-Try Food

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Should You Visit by Land or on a Cruise?

Best Cruises

Popular Cruise Itineraries

Things to Do on an Alaska Cruise

One Week in Alaska

Tundra Tours

Things to Do in Alaska

25 Best Things to Do in Alaska

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

Whether you visit Alaska by land or by sea, you can see all sorts of fascinating sights even before you arrive in the state. Once you're in Alaska, though, you'll find plenty of things to do for all ages and interests, from taking a cruise to see glaciers and whales to hiking through the pristine wilderness of the state's many parks and nature preserves. While you may want to arrive in a city like Anchorage, Juneau, or Fairbanks, don't miss the chance to explore more remote locations like Whittier, Talkeetna, or Sitka to explore more of the culture of this remarkable state.

Visit Denali National Park

TripSavvy / Alisha McDarris

The highest peak in North America is the top of Denali, which towers over the national park of the same name at 20,310 feet. Previously known as Mount McKinley to many Americans, Alaskans have always referred to this great peak by its native name which means "tall" or "high." In 2015, the federal government under President Obama officially changed the name back to Denali. It's a great sight to see on its own, but you can also take a bus tour of the park to see wildlife like grizzly bears, moose, caribou, Dall sheep, and wolves. Meanwhile, the varied colors of the park's lakes and rivers, geologic formations, and tundra landscape provide a gorgeous backdrop to your journey.

Before your adventure, spend some time at the Denali Visitor Center, located at the park's northeast entrance, to learn about the seasons and the natural history of Denali and to get information about available park tours, activities, and recreation opportunities.

Cruise Through Kenai Fjords National Park

To see the marine life of Alaska, take a day cruise through Kenai Fjords National Park near the small town of Seward, just 120 miles from Anchorage on Alaska's south-central coast. Established in 1980, Kenai Fjords National Park covers approximately 670,000 acres and is home to a variety of wildlife, including otters, puffins, harbor seals, bald eagles, sea stars, orcas, Minke whales, and Dall's porpoises. The park is also home to one of the largest ice fields in the United States, Harding Icefield, and a plethora of stunning mountain scenery as well as hanging and tidewater glaciers.

Cruises operated by Celebrity Cruises, Holland America Line, and Royal Caribbean all depart from the Seward port almost daily from March through September each year. Day cruises travel through the park via Resurrection Bay and typically last between four and nine hours.

Tour the Museum of the North in Fairbanks

Located on the University of Alaska Fairbanks campus, the Museum of the North is a world-class museum stuffed with fascinating exhibits covering Alaska's history, art, and culture. The Gallery of Alaska covers each region of the state, addressing both human and natural history with highlights including mammoths, mastodons, gold, and gold nuggets. Also, the Alaska Classics art gallery features historical paintings while the Rose Berry Alaska Art Gallery upstairs focuses on contemporary Alaskan art. While you're there, don't miss the movies at the Museum of the North's theater, particularly "Arctic Currents: A Year in the Life of the Bowhead Whale," an animated film detailing the migratory patterns of these magnificent aquatic creatures.

The Museum of the North is open Monday through Saturday during the winter season (September 1 through May 31) and daily during the summer (June 1 to August 31) but is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day , and New Year's Day.

Relive History at Sitka National Historical Park

Courtesy of Sitka National Historical Park 

Sitka National Historical Park, Alaska's oldest national park, is located on the east side of Sitka , a popular port of call for Inside Passage cruises . Dedicated to the preservation of the history of native Tlingit and Russian experiences in Alaska, this historical park commemorates the site of the Battle of 1804 between local Tlingit Indians and Russian colonists. Begin at the park's visitor center, where you'll explore exhibits on historic and modern totem poles, Russian and Native artifacts, and temperate ​rainforest and beaches, but make sure to stick around for ranger-guided tours through history. Follow that with a walking tour of the Russian Bishop's House and a hike along the Totem Trail.

Sitka National Park is open daily throughout the year from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., but the Visitor's Center is only open from May through September. Additionally, tours are only available to the general public from May through September and by appointment only during the "winter" season from October through April.

Visit the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park

Reywas92 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0 

The 1898 Klondike Gold Rush was a colorful yet somber episode in North American history when thousands came to the west coast hoping to strike it rich mining for gold. With units scattered throughout Alaska, and even one in Seattle, Washington, the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park is dedicated to this period of North American History, and the main visitor's center for this park is located in the town of Skagway, Alaska. The visitor center offers a gripping film covering the terrible hardships and rare triumphs of the men and women who were part of the great rush, with a focus on those who passed through Skagway on their way over the Chilkoot Pass. After checking out the film, exhibits, and bookshop at the visitor center, you can hook up with a ranger-led tour of downtown Skagway and its many historic Gold-Rush-era buildings.

Although limited services are available from October 1 through April 15 in Skagway, the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park is open year-round, offering daily activities Monday through Friday every week. Intrepid travelers can also embark on a snowshoe trek or cross-country ski trip through the park on their own.

Check Out the Anchorage Museum

The Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center combines several museums in one location, covering Alaska's art, history, ethnography, ecology, and science all at once. Visitors can view contemporary and traditional art, learn about the state's history and native peoples, view amazing presentations at the Thomas Planetarium, and participate in hands-on activities throughout the museum. The Smithsonian Arctic Studies Center, a collection on loan from the Smithsonian, is a particularly fascinating display of artifacts from Native Alaskan and other Arctic cultures. Kids will love the Imaginarium Discovery Center, which moved into the Anchorage Museum in 2010. Anchorage Museum services include a cafe, gift shop, and guided tours.

The Anchorage Museum is open daily from May 1 through September 30 but is closed on Mondays from October 1 through April 30 each year. While free for museum members, admission to the museum ranges in price for Alaskan residents as well as visiting adults, children aged 3 to 12, students, military, and seniors. Additionally, the museum offers free admission on the first Friday of each month.

Learn History at the Alaska State Museum

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Located in the capital city of Juneau , the Alaska State Museum is the official museum of history and culture for the state. While particularly well-known for its presentation of Native Alaskan traditions associated with the Aleut, Athabaskan, Eskimo, and Northwest Coast people, the museum also explores early Russian, European, and American settlement as well as gold rush and mining history through its permanent collection. Rebuilt from scratch between 2014 and 2016, the museum building, known as the Father Andrew P. Kashevaroff (APK) Building, also houses the Alaska State Archives and the Alaska State Library.

The Alaska State Museum is open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the fall through spring seasons and open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the summer. Admission is free on the first Friday of every month from 4:30 to 7 p.m.

Take a Boat to Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve

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There are a number of ways to experience Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, which is located off the southern Alaskan coast near Juneau, but the only ways to access it are by plane or boat. Many people visit Glacier Bay as part of an Alaska Inside Passage cruise, and day-long boat tours of the park are also available from Juneau and other southern Alaskan communities near the 3.3-million-acre park. As you make the chill and quiet journey through the fingers and inlets of Glacier Bay, you'll have the chance to see several major tidewater glaciers as well as a variety of wildlife. The area around the town of Gustavus, at the southern end of Glacier Bay National Park, offers most of the amenities for land-based adventure, including the park headquarters, visitor center, accommodations , and a small airport offering 30-minute flights to Juneau.

While Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve is open year-round, services in the winter are extremely limited, and the Visitor's Center and Visitor's Information Station for Boaters and Campers are only open from May through early September. Boat tour and cruise availability also vary by season.

Take a Tour on the Riverboat Discovery

Departing out of Fairbanks, the grand Riverboat Discovery will take you on a scenic tour of the Chena and Tanana Rivers, and along the way, you'll learn about the contemporary and traditional ways of life in Alaska. You'll stop in front of the home and kennels of the late Susan Butcher to find out about the sled dogs, and an Athabaskan fish camp is another stop, where you'll learn about the harvest, preparation, smoking, and storage of salmon. The highlight of the trip is the Chena Indian Village , where you can get off the Riverboat Discovery and explore an Athabaskan village to get an up-close look at the gear, dwellings, and animals that are a part of their culture. The cruise takes about three and a half hours and starts and ends at a large gift shop in the port of Fairbanks.

Riverboat Discovery tours operate from May through September each year with services departing daily at 8:45 a.m. and 2 p.m. Reservations are required to embark on the journey, and spots sometimes fill up during the busy season.

Mendenhall Glacier in Juneau

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Located just 12 miles outside of Juneau, Mendenhall Glacier fills Mendenhall Valley before terminating into and forming Mendenhall Lake. The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center overlooks the glacier, providing warm and sheltered views of this natural wonder, and offers exhibits and films about the science and history of glaciation in the region. A number of trails, most of which start near the visitor center, allow you to view the 13-mile length of the glacier as well as the surrounding deglaciated landscape and wildlife.

The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor's Center is open daily from May 1 through September 25, including on holidays, but is only open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from October through April. However, the Tongass National Forest, which manages the trails around the glacier itself, is open to visitors year-round.

Enjoy Outdoor Recreation Near Valdez

Noppawat Tom Charoensinphon / Getty Images

The small, picturesque city of Valdez on Alaska's southern coast is a great place to enjoy outdoor adventures no matter what time of year you visit. Offering everything from rafting and backcountry hiking to ice climbing and helicopter tours, the surrounding wilderness outside of Valdez also includes several glaciers and waterfalls in Chugach National Forest and the Prince William Sound. While you're in Valdez, explore Keystone Canyon and the Worthington Glacier State Recreation Site or take part in one of the town's famous fishing derbies, which rewards the biggest halibut and silver salmon catches with cash prizes.

Island Hop in Ketchikan

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Located near British Columbia at the southern tip of Alaska, the city of Ketchikan was built among a series of islands and inlets right along the waterfront of Alaska's Inside Passage. Known for its many Native American totem poles on display throughout the town and in the Totem Heritage Center, the largest display of totem poles in the world, the city of Ketchikan is also close to a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities in Misty Fiords National Monument , a glacier-carved mountain featuring a variety of waterfalls and salmon-spawning streams.

See the Northern Lights in Fairbanks or Barrow

Thanks to its location in northern Alaska, just 150 miles south of the Arctic Circle, Fairbanks is one of the best places in the state to view the Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights. Tours are available in Fairbanks to viewing areas like Chena Lake or the Murphy Dome, but you can also take a four-wheel-drive into the surrounding countryside to see the lights yourself.

Meanwhile, the remote northern town of Barrow , located 330 miles north of the Arctic Circle, offers a slightly different experience for your trip to see the Aurora Borealis. Home to the native Inupiat culture, which is known for its traditional use of dogsledding, Barrow's views of the Aurora show are unparalleled in the state. However, you'll have to endure negative temperatures almost year-round to see them here.

Celebrate the Iditarod Dog Sled Race in Nome

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Found on the central west coast of Alaska on Norton Sound of the Bering Sea, the small city of Nome is best-known as the end for the annual Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, which travels over 1,000 miles from Anchorage to Nome in early March each year. However, the city also boasts a rich history of gold mining thanks to the Klondike Gold Rush and offers a variety of outdoor adventures in the surrounding wilderness year-round, so even if you're not in town for the dogsled race, there's still plenty to do in Nome any time you visit.

Drive to Canada on the Alaskan Highway

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Stretching all the way from Delta Junction (near Fairbanks) to Dawson Creek in British Columbia, Canada, the Alaska-Canada Highway, also known as the Alcan Highway, is a great way to see the wilderness of the region up close. However, the Alaska Highway only includes 200 miles of roadway in Alaska; most of the 1,520 miles of highway are located in the Yukon Territory and British Columbia, so you won't get too far unless you have a valid passport or passport card for crossing the border into Canada.

Celebrate Culture at the Alaska Native Heritage Center

Leo Boudreau / Flickr / CC BY 2.0

Just outside the city of Anchorage, the Alaska Native Heritage Center provides hands-on educational interaction with music, art, and people of the 11 major cultural groups of Alaska. While you're there, see Alaska Native dancing, singing, storytelling, and game demonstrations at the Gathering Place; explore exhibits and demonstrating Alaska Native artists at the Hall of Cultures, and watch a variety of movies about the different cultural groups at the Theatre.

The highlight of the Heritage Center, though, are the six life-sized Native dwellings located alongside Lake Tiulana in a wooded area outside the center itself, where guests can see the way the Athabascan, Inupiaq/St. Lawrence Island Yupik, Yup’ik/Cup’ik, Aleut, Alutiiq, and the Eyak, Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian people live.

Ride on the Alaska Railroad

Extending from Seward to Fairbanks, the Alaska Railroad was a vital part of Alaska's history and the development of the city of Anchorage from a small tent town into a major urban hub, and it still serves as a vital transportation option for over 550,000 travelers a year. Popular stops along the route include the Denali National Park, the Chugach National Forest, the city of Anchorage, and a variety of smaller towns and native villages. Alaska Railroad also offers a variety of special event rides throughout the year, including the kid's Halloween Train and backcountry ski packages in the winter.

See the Animals at the Kroschel Wildlife Center

Courtesy of Kroschel Wildlife Center

Owned and operated by independent filmmaker Steve Kroschel, the Kroschel Wildlife Center is a nature preserve 28 miles outside the city of Haines , which is located in the northern part of the Alaska Panhandle. Kroschel and a dedicated staff personally take care of abandoned or orphaned wild animals in the center, allowing these creatures to roam loose on the property in their natural environment. Visitors can wander down 600 yards of curated trails through the center to encounter 15 native Alaskan species including moose, wolves, lynx, grizzly bears, reindeer, owls.

Touch the Sea Life at the Kodiak Fisheries Research Center

Courtesy of Kodiak Fisheries Research Center

Located on Kodiak Island off the southern coast of Alaska, the Kodiak Fisheries Research Center is a 45,937-square-foot multi-agency laboratory and office building that offers visitors a chance to touch the aquatic life from the Kodiak Island waterways . Featuring a 3,500-gallon touch-tank in its Interpretive Center that houses crabs, shrimp, snails, starfish, and various fish species, the research center allows guests to get a hands-on education about marine life. You can also tour the facility to learn from marine scientists firsthand.

Stay Cool at the Aurora Ice Museum

Created from over 1,000 tons of ice and snow, the Aurora Ice Museum is a year-round destination for winter fun that's located inside the Chena Hot Springs Resort in Fairbanks . Take a tour of the museum to see unique ice sculptures, including three entire rooms, carved out of ice, made by world-famous champion carvers Steve and Heather Brice. Tours of the museum are offered every day of the year at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m, 5 p.m., and 7 p.m.

Go Whale Watching in Juneau

Christian Alexander Bovians / EyeEm / Getty Images

The city of Juneau isn't just the capital of Alaska, it's also one of the best places in the state to embark on a whale-watching tour. Start your journey on a 25-mile bus trip from the Mount Roberts Tram parking lot to the Auke Bay Harbor , and then board a ferry boat that will take you on a three-hour trip around the bay. During your journey, you'll see a variety of wildlife including bald eagles, seals, sea lions, orcas, and, the star of the tour, humpback whales.

Visit the Santa Claus House in North Pole

Known for its year-round Christmas decorations and the famous Santa Claus House Christmas store, the small Alaskan city of North Pole is located just 14 miles outside of Fairbanks. No matter what time of year you visit, you can get into the holiday spirit at this unique shop, which is home to the world's largest Santa Claus statue and a variety of unique holiday-themed gifts, decorations, and treats.

Explore Whittier

Established as a military supply post during World War II, the small town of Whittier is a unique destination because most of the city's residents live in just one building: Begich Towers. Located about 60 miles southeast of Anchorage, Whittier is accessible by train or car through the longest tunnel in North America, the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel , which runes 13,000 feet under an entire mountain; however, you can also take a boat into the seaport. Along with visiting the Prince William Sound Museum in town, you can explore the Portage Pass Trail or Emerald Cove Trail outside of town to hike through glaciers and over the pristine landscape of Alaska.

Discover the Ghost Town of Kennicott

David Crane / Getty Images

Once home to a thriving copper mine, the town of Kennicott is almost completely deserted, with a population of just a couple dozen people who work at the local lodges, restaurants, and bars that still serve guests year-round. Located in southwestern Alaska's Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve , Kennicott is only accessible on foot by taking a four-mile hike along a gravel road. However, there are numerous adventure services available that also take you nearby, including flight-seeing around the Wrangell Mountain Range, rafting and mountaineering treks, and guided historic and wilderness tours.

Ride the Talkeetna Air Taxi

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One of the best ways to see the most of Alaska's wilderness is to take a charter flight aboard a small plane or helicopter. The Talkeetna Air Taxi provides this service on its 10 safe and modern aircraft. Departing from the small town of Talkeetna , which was established during Alaska's Klondike Gold Rush in the late 1890s and offers a number of historic attractions and locally-owned shops, the Air Taxi trip takes visitors on a low-altitude flight over Denali National Park. Halfway through your flight, you'll also land on a glacier, which is usually only accessible via a long and arduous hike up Denali.

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7 Top Things to Do in Alaska for Christmas

Alaska Destinations

So much to see! You can't go wrong starting with a visit to Kenai Fjords and Denali National Park.

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• Denali National Park
• Seward & Kenai Fjords
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Let Alaska Tour & Travel be your one-stop source for Alaska travel information and reservations. We specialize in Alaska's top travel destinations such as Seward , Anchorage , Talkeetna , and Fairbanks , as well as Alaska's most popular national parks including Denali National Park and Kenai Fjords National Park . These destinations are all along Alaska's "railbelt," so travel is easy: Go in comfort and style aboard a luxury dome train , deluxe motorcoach , or even drive yourself in a premium 4x4 car or van rental .

Be sure to check out our trip finder , sample itineraries , and best places to visit in Alaska page for great trip ideas, and don't hesitate to contact us if we can be of any assistance.

If you like to take the road less traveled, consider one of our Off the Beaten Path destinations. Travel above the Arctic Circle and experience 24 hours of daylight, stay at a true wilderness lodge , or leave the crowds behind and explore Wrangell-St. Elias National Park . Try one of our self-drive tour packages and drive to the "end of the road" in Homer , or explore other unique Alaska small towns such as Valdez and Girdwood .

Our staff of lifelong Alaskans will help you set up the perfect Alaska vacation tailored to your specific requirements. You can choose from individual lodging , activity , and transportation choices, or select one of our many pre-built Alaska vacation packages .

Best Places to Visit in Alaska

The list is long, but every place belongs on it. Read on for our top recommendations for where to go while traveling in Alaska. Learn More >

Off the Beaten Path Alaska

Curious about Alaska beyond Seward, Anchorage, and Denali? Explore destinations farther afield, from the coast to distant national parks to tiny outposts above the Arctic Circle. Learn More >

Alaska National Parks

Experience the full range of Alaska's natural beauty in national parks like Denali, Kenai Fjords, and Wrangell-St. Elias. Learn More >

See the state's many national parks, tours, attractions, and places of note on this interactive Alaska map. Learn More >

Alaska Regions

Whether looking at it on a map or seeing it in person, Alaska's sheer size stands out. Make sense of the state with a breakdown of its five distinctive regions. Learn More >

Alaska Ports of Call

Visit a glacier in Juneau, ride a narrow-gauge train in Skagway, go fishing in Ketchikan, and find plenty more fun among Alaska's Inside Passage ports of call. Learn More >

PRESENTED BY TRAVEL ALASKA

The essential guide to visiting Alaska

Here’s everything you need to know about exploring the cities and vast wilderness of Alaska—when to go, where to stay, what to do, and how to get around.

Why you should visit Alaska

Millions of acres of dazzling wilderness . Indigenous   cultures on Dena’ina land (Anchorage). Northern lights   over Fairbanks. The joy of the blanket toss and fishing for a king (king salmon, that is).

Best time to visit Alaska

Summer:   With up to 24 hours of sunlight, visitors make like locals and pack their days. Fish for sockeye salmon (a.k.a. “reds”) in the remote rivers of Bristol Bay , backpack the Chugach Mountains ,   or take a guided glacier traverse in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park . Birders check off life-list birds in Utqiaġvik,   the northernmost community in the United States. Cruises hit the waterways, RVs hit the roads, and bush plane companies take to the skies. Wildflowers, berries, and bears are abundant. Mosquitoes too.

Winter:   This is the season for fat tire biking   along Anchorage’s extensive trail system   or skiing (from cross-country on trails around Fairbanks to heli-skiing the mountains around Valdez). The entire state cheers on the four-legged athletes of the Iditarod and celebrates the shortest day, solstice, hinting of summer. The Sealaska Heritage Center offers a warmup along with the history and art of Southeast Alaska’s Indigenous communities.

Fall and spring:   Though fall color pops in the forests and on the tundra, it’s a short season, with most Alaskans focused on getting ready for winter. Spring, known in Alaska as “breakup,” thanks to ice and snow giving way to ground and open water, tends to be muddy. Neither are recommended for visiting.

Lay of the land

Cities:   In the Southeast, capital Juneau is hopping when the legislature is in session (January through May). Nearly 850 miles away (including a ferry ride), Anchorage   has one of the state’s best food and a lively arts scene. In the Interior , Fairbanks’ farmers market remains a key community hub and the UAF outdoor thermometer a top spot for a mid-winter photo opp.

Arctic: Because most of this region is off the road system, locals travel between communities by bush plane, skiffs, or—in winter—snow machines (locals don’t call them snowmobiles). Travel up the Dalton Highway across the Arctic Circle by car or, easier, guided tour .

( See the breathtaking beauty of Gates of the Arctic, America’s least-visited national park .)

Southcentral:   This is the most heavily populated section of the state, due to Anchorage and the Mat-su Valley . Go bear viewing out of Homer . Day cruise out of Valdez . Hike Chugach National Forest .

Interior: With the Alaska Range to the south and the Brooks Range to the north, the Interior stands tall thanks to its best-known residents, Denali Mountain and its namesake park. The Denali Highway thrills geology and archaeology buffs.

Southeast: The Inside Passage (to the cruise community) is dotted with small towns serving up plenty of character. Ketchikan’s public art bests towns twice its size. Sitka has a rich Russian heritage and one of the   coziest bookstores in the U.S.

Southwest:   Small communities and massive tracts of wilderness. At Adak and the Pribilof Islands birders round out life lists. The waters of Bristol Bay run rich with sockeye salmon.

Getting around Alaska

By plane:   Alaska Airlines offers flights to 21 locations around the state. Smaller commuter lines and charter flights provide access to the rest of Alaska.

By train: The Alaska Railroad services destinations from Fairbanks in the north down to Seward during the summer months. Winter service is limited.

By car:   Rentals are available in major cities as well as some towns in the Southeast. Driving between some sections requires getting on the Alaska Marine Highway system , the state’s car and passenger ferries. With a limited road system and most road repairs done during the summer months, prepare for delays.

By boat: The Alaska Marine Highway ferry system runs from Bellingham, Washington, in the Southeast to Southcentral Alaska and down the Aleutian Chain to Dutch Harbor. Book in advance for both foot passengers and cars.

( Here’s how to take a family road trip in Alaska .)

Know before you go

Cultural history:   The land now commonly known as Alaska has been home to 11 distinct cultures for thousands of years. The Eyak ,   Tlingit, Haida , and Tsimshian peoples come from Southeast. North and northwest are the lands of the Iñupiat and St. Lawrence Island Yup’ik .

The Interior is where you’ll find 11 linguistic groups of the Athabascan people. In Southwest, the Yup’ik and Cup’ik people have been fishing the local waters for at least 10,000 years. The Alutiiq (Sugpiaq) and Unangax peoples have long made their home in Southcentral and down across the 1,300-mile Aleutian chain.

Just under 16 percent of Alaska’s current population is Alaska Native, with 279 federally recognized tribes. The state is divided into 12 Alaska Native regional corporations, which were established in 1971 when the U.S. Congress passed the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA).

From culture camps to language classes, a wide range of programs ensure that Native cultures, art practices, and languages continue. One of the state’s key resources is the Alaska Native Language Archive , established in 2009.

Reservations: For Alaska’s summer travel season, consider booking tours, hotel rooms, and rental cars at least six months in advance. They can be hard to come by once the season is underway.

Hours:   Restaurant hours vary around the state but are often more limited during winter months.

LGBTQ+: In a 2023 24/7 Wall St. report of the most LGBTQ+-friendly states in the U.S. , Alaska ranked 27th.   Despite Alaska’s low rating on Movement Advancement Project’s Mapping Equality report ranks Alaska “low” but Anchorage, Juneau, Sitka, and Ketchikan have enacted ordinances protecting sexual orientation and gender identity. Overall, the LGBTQ+ community celebrates Pride at events around the state, and there is a vibrant tradition of local drag shows in the major cities.

How to visit sustainably

Outdoors: With more than 663,000 square miles of land, Alaska is a pristine natural wonderland. As such, sustainability principles like “ leave no trace ” are important. Whenever possible, support local businesses that are eco-certified through programs like Adventure Green Alaska , which lists responsible tour operators here . When viewing wildlife, follow the state Fish and Game Department’s guidelines .

Shopping: There are strict rules governing the Made in Alaska and Silver Hand symbols to protect both craftspeople and buyers.

Dining: There’s a growing focus on local seafood and food produced during the short growing season. Most restaurants list locally sourced ingredients on menus.

( This author rediscovered his love for nature in Alaska’s Tongass National Forest .)

What to read

Hyperboreal ,   by Joan Naviyuk Kane. An Inupiaq poet, Kane grew up in Anchorage but her poetry explores the history of one of the villages her family came from, Ugiuvak (King Island). She writes in both English and Inupiaq.

If You Lived Here, I’d Know Your Name , by Heather Lende. Alaska’s State Writer Laureate has lived in Haines since 1973. Like many towns around the state, Haines isn’t on the road system, so access is by boat or plane. This adds another layer to this warm-hearted memoir about life in small-town Alaska.

Berry Song , by Michaela Goade. This children’s book is essential reading for anyone to understand the range of experiences, importance, and joy of the subsistence lifestyle many Alaska Native people rely upon.

( For more tips on what to do in Alaska, see our Explorer’s Guide .)

Related Topics

• CITY GUIDES
• CULTURAL TOURISM
• ADVENTURE TRAVEL

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20 Best Things to do in Anchorage

If you are looking for Alaska’s top activities and attractions, look no farther than Anchorage. Consider the top 20 things to do in Anchorage as you plan a visit and make the trip complete.

There are more than a thousand of these iconic, antlered animals in Anchorage alone. Spend a little time here, and you’re sure to find one. There’s even a popular moose spot right next to the airport. In a pinch? Head to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center or Alaska Zoo for a guaranteed date with a moose.

See and Hear Glaciers

The landscape surrounding Anchorage is studded with these gems. Want to see a bunch all at once? Take a day cruise from nearby Portage or Whittier, or take to the air on a sightseeing flight.

Learn About Alaska Native Cultures

The Alaska Native Heritage Center is one of the best places for an introduction to diverse Alaska Native traditions and language. Anchorage is located within the traditional homelands of the Dena'ina Athabascan people and the Native Village of Eklutna, and Alaska is home to many more distinct groups, each with its own features and lifestyles based on the surrounding environments. Learning about these important Indigenous cultures and histories is a big part of any visit to Alaska.

Ride the Rails

The railroad is what gave Anchorage its start, and first linked broad stretches of Alaska together. The city is still the starting point for rail travel in Alaska , with trains departing daily in the summer for Seward, Prince William Sound, Denali, Talkeetna and Fairbanks. Check out the Glacier Discovery train to Spencer Whistle stop, it’s an easy – and incredible – day trip while in Anchorage.

Pedal the Coastal Trail

Anchorage’s bike paths travel 135 miles through the city, and the crown jewel of the system is the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail . Rent a bike downtown, and take off on the 11-mile shoreside trail.

Dive into Alaska’s Largest Museum

The Anchorage Museum is the largest museum in the state. This isn’t just a city museum, it shares the story of Alaska. These art and history galleries are the best primer for a trip through Alaska.

Go Flightseeing

Flightseeing is one of the best ways to explore the mountains, soar over glaciers, and spot wildlife from above. Anchorage has more pilots and planes per capita than any place in the U.S., and the busiest floatplane base in the world is here, too.

Enjoy Nearby Parkland

Chugach State Park is the closest wilderness area and one of the largest state parks in the country, with access points a short drive from anywhere in the city. Find a piece of this 9,000-square-mile Chugach mountain range to call your own for the day. Take a hike, raft the rapids, or relax and soak up endless views from a serene alpine meadow.

Fish Ship Creek

Anglers find five species of salmon in local waters, not to mention trout, grayling and Arctic char. And there’s no need to mount an expedition. Anchorage's most popular salmon fishery is a stone’s throw from the city center. King and silver salmon return to Ship Creek every summer, and the popular Slam'n Salm'n Derby (held annually in June) is a family-friendly way to compete for the biggest catch.

Anglers aren’t the only residents who follow the fish. Beluga whales chase salmon runs just off the coast. Take a trip down Turnagain Arm to spot them. These white whales get as big as a car. Looking for bigger species? Continue on to Seward or Whittier for a day of whale watching.

Strike it Rich

Indian Valley and Crow Creek were the site of gold strikes at the end of the 19th century. Gold panning is still a common pursuit, and with a pan, persistence and a little patience, anyone has a shot at finding flakes of Alaska gold.

Bear Viewing near Anchorage

Alaska is the only place in the U.S. with black, brown and polar bears. Anchorage bear viewing often involves a short flight to a salmon-filled stream in Katmai or Lake Clark national parks or nearby Chinitna Bay. Here visitors can view the bruins, big coastal browns, without disturbing the bears. Find bears closer to the city at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and keep an eye out while hiking or biking local trails throughout Anchorage — black bears can occasionally be spotted meandering through underbrush in parks and greenbelts around town.

View the Northern Lights

Active from September through April, the northern lights dazzle. Night owls can pursue the shifting colors of the auroras near Anchorage: Eklutna Tailrace, Girdwood, and the Knik River Area are all popular spots for a night of viewing. Click here to learn more.

Try Dog Sledding

The state sport may be a winter pursuit, but mushers welcome visitors to their kennels year-round. Learn about racing sled dogs, take a ride on a cart, and hold a whole litter of cute puppies. To get sliding on snow even in summer, several mushers camp out atop glaciers for the summer, with helicopter access to the seasonal retreats.

Enjoy the Midnight Sun

Between March 20 and September 22, Anchorage has more daylight than anywhere in the other 49 states. The city gains five minutes a day – as much as a half hour each week – meaning plenty of time for outdoor evening activities. Hike a nearby mountain peak, follow a bike trail through sun-dappled woods, cast a line for salmon in a local stream, and enjoy dinner al fresco surrounded by vast Alaska views. It’s incredible how much fits in a day when the sun barely ever sets!

Alaska Art and Shopping

Find authentic Alaska works straight from the artist. Whether you seek out traditional Alaska Native art, innovative crafts from a young entrepreneur, or salmon or local candy to take home and share, Anchorage is the spot to find it. Here's something to sweeten the deal more: shopping in Anchorage is tax-free.

Ride the Alyeska Tramway

Flying isn’t the only way to get an aerial view. The Alyeska Tramway  swoops over treetops, taking passengers 2,000 feet up Mount Alyeska. Seven named glaciers, kettle ponds and sparkling Turnagain Arm are all visible from the tram.

Taste Alaska

Local fare includes king crab, halibut and salmon, naturally. But there are a few curveballs in Anchorage cuisine. Try reindeer sausage, or veggies fresh from the nearby Matanuska Valley. Anchorage is also an under-the radar beer town, with more than a dozen breweries in the city.

Visit National Parks

What Alaska visit is complete without exploring the national parks ? Anchorage’s proximity makes visiting multiple parks easy. Fly over Denali, check out Kenai Fjords on a day cruise or kayak trip, and take off for Lake Clark or Katmai for bear viewing.

Watch the Bore Tide

Tides in Anchorage are extreme, with some of the highest tides in the world. The shallow, narrow waters of Turnagain Arm help form a bore tide , a wave up to 6 feet tall that rolls for miles along the inlet. The Seward Highway is dotted with good vantage points to watch this natural phenomenon, and perhaps even spot the intrepid surfers who seek to ride the wave. And that's just the start! Click here for more things to do  in Anchorage.

Alaska Fits In Your Mailbox

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Visit Anchorage is the official source for Anchorage, Alaska and Southcentral Alaska travel information.

13 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Anchorage, Alaska

Written by Chloë Ernst and Brad Lane Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Surrounded by the Chugach Mountains in Southcentral Alaska, Anchorage is Alaska's largest city and commercial center (though much smaller Juneau is the state capital). A modern style pervades the city, rebuilt after a devastating 1964 earthquake and tsunami. The city appeals to urbanites and its approximately 290,000 residents with plenty of cultural attractions.

However, the real draw for tourists and residents of Anchorage is the city's easy access to wild Alaskan landscapes. The nearly half-million-acre Chugach State Park is at the city's backdoor. Also within easy reach of the city is Mount Alyeska Resort , which offers skiing throughout the year; the popular Portage Glacier (50 miles southeast); and the Kenai Peninsula . You can also do a road trip from Anchorage to Denali National Park or visit the fjord-riddled coast.

Anchorage is Alaska's most important traffic hub, welcoming many international airlines and home to the world's largest seaplane base. The Alaska Railroad also runs through Anchorage, connecting other scenic cultural hubs and tying together the region's rich history. Discover the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Anchorage.

See also: Where to Stay in Anchorage

1. Observe the Residents at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

2. take a bicycle ride on the tony knowles coastal trail, 3. explore the culture at the alaska native heritage center, 4. engage at the anchorage museum at rasmuson center, 5. dive into chugach state park, 6. hike the flattop mountain trail, 7. watch seaplanes land at the alaska aviation museum, 8. hop aboard the alaska railroad, 9. ski girdwood, alaska, 10. alaska zoo, 11. seward, alaska, 12. kenai fjords national park, 13. gain some altitude with rust's flying service, where to stay in anchorage for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in anchorage, alaska.

This animal sanctuary adopts injured or orphaned wildlife from the Alaska area, sometimes providing them with a permanent place to stay. The Conservation Center is an hour southeast of Anchorage, and guests can visit the resident animals and their 200 acres of spacious habitat throughout the year. This access enables up-close views of bison, bears, moose, owls, elk, eagles, wolves, and a lynx.

This nonprofit organization strives to research these animals and educate the public about Alaska wildlife, and in accordance offers a variety of classes, programs, and tours . For anyone looking to add to their conservation efforts, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center has many volunteer opportunities available.

An easy way to explore the Wildlife Conservation Center is by booking a guided tour with round-trip transportation. Trips like the Wilderness, Wildlife, & Glacier Experience not only offer a ride to the animal sanctuary, they make several scenic stops along the way. And the professional narration of the trip offers an easy way to learn about the beauty at each site.

Address: Mile 79 Seward Highway, Portage, Alaska

The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail trims 11 miles of the Anchorage shoreline, heading southwest from downtown. The coastal walking and biking trail starts near the city's oldest home, Oscar Anderson House , and continues to the somber setting of Earthquake Park , where information panels describe how the 1964 earthquake swallowed stretches of shoreline.

Wildlife sightings often include moose and beluga whales along the rest of this popular route. The path also lends a preview to some of the city's most defining natural landscapes, including Denali, the Chugach Mountains, and the downtown skyline. The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail ends at the large Kincaid Park, with especially panoramic mountain views.

One of the most popular ways to traverse the length of the trail is via bicycle. For those visiting without their own two wheels, local gear shops, like Downtown Bicycle Rental , offer affordable daytime rentals.

The Alaska Native Heritage Center , northeast of the city center, explores the cultures of 11 Alaskan Indigenous groups. It's a family-friendly place to gain a better understanding of Alaska's history and culture before exploring the rest of the city. At the Heritage Center, six traditional dwellings surround the small Lake Tiulana, with each demonstration village displaying artifacts and offering various experiences.

Visitors can take in cultural dances, games, and artist demonstrations, with knowledgeable guides providing details and answering questions. The center also features local and regional artworks in a Hall of Cultures and a Theater that plays educational film series throughout the day.

Transportation is available to the center from the Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center .

To expand on this introduction to Anchorage, a guided Anchorage City Tour provides further insights into the history and culture that define Anchorage. This two-hour tour stops at prominent city landmarks and natural spaces, including the Alaska Native Heritage Center. It offers a more complete story of Anchorage that's otherwise not easy to discover on your own.

Address: 8800 Heritage Center Drive, Anchorage, Alaska

A modern, glass-fronted building houses the expansive Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center . The facility contains a broad range of art and historic items related to Alaska and the Arctic. The museum also features numerous traveling exhibits from around the world each year.

Located on the first floor, the Spark!Lab has hands-on science and technology exhibits popular for young researchers. Throughout the rest of the four-story facility, permanent exhibits include Art of the North and a Smithsonian Arctic Studies Center . This is a great place to visit for families or anyone looking to entertain children for a day.

A planetarium at the facility offers other visual forms of entertainment. Regular showings at the Thomas Planetarium include educational films focusing on the environment, the cosmos, and human wellness. And just sitting in the large park in front of the museum is a lovely way to enjoy Alaska's long summer days.

Address: 625 C Street, Anchorage, Alaska

Chugach State Park is one of the four largest state parks in the United States, covering a staggering 700-plus square miles. This rugged terrain of mountains, rivers, lakes, and glaciers is home to wolves, moose, bears, beavers, lynxes, and other wildlife. It's also a popular area for hiking, skiing, and camping within the vicinity of Anchorage.

The park borders the city to the east and meets the saltwater at various points along the Seward Highway, traveling along the shores of Turnagain Arm . Several trailheads lead right from the city streets into this wild environment. The Glen Alps Trailhead offers an easy introduction to Chugach right from the city limits.

The lands adjoin Chugach National Forest , where attractions like the Portage Glacier (in retreat) draw in tourists and cruise-ship visitors traveling between Anchorage and Seward or Whittier.

Address: 18620 Seward Hwy, Anchorage, Alaska

Flattop Mountain offers a popular hiking route on the southeast side of the commercial center. It's often referred to as the most commonly climbed mountain in Alaska thanks to this proximity, as well as the relatively short 1.7-mile hike to the top. However, the route gains a hearty 1,300 feet along the way, with some scrambling near the peak, making it no easy walk in the park.

Flattop Mountain is still a popular place to visit for those not interested in hiking to the top. A short and flat trail leads from the parking area to a fantastic view of Anchorage with an easy walk. Other trail options throughout the area enable all types of hikes at the fringe of Chugach National Park.

Restored vintage aircraft, photographs, and other related memorabilia are displayed at the Alaska Aviation Museum , honoring the pioneers of Alaska aviation. Best of all, the museum is on the shores of Lake Hood , near both the world's busiest seaplane base and the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport .

The aircraft on display are in various states of repair, with some being no more than a frame. Patrons can observe some of these vintage aircraft coming back to life in the Restoration Hanger. Watching take-offs and landings on nearby Lake Hood from a retired control tower , complete with a live radio feed, is also a fun part of any visit.

The museum is open seven days a week, with a small price of admission for adults and children. Members of the museum receive free admission.

Address: 4721 Aircraft Drive, Anchorage, Alaska

Anchorage began in the early 20th century as a tent town to support the construction of the Alaska Railroad. After President Warren G. Harding drove the Golden Spike into the ground in 1923, the railroad endured a legacy tied to World War II, colossal earthquakes, and a tumultuous economy.

Today, the Alaska Railroad is owned by the state and offers dozens of passenger services and event trains while accommodating more than half a million travelers each year. What has remained constant in the near-century of operation is the elevated terrain seen alongside the tracks.

The tracks stretch for 470 miles from Seward to Fairbanks, with a prominent stop in Anchorage along the way. It connects several communities and otherwise hard-to-reach areas, spanning from the Southcentral coast into Inland Alaska. Train stops include Denali National Park & Preserve , Girdwood, and accessible-only-by-train backcountry areas .

The Alaska Railroad operates year-round, with more frequent service between mid-May and mid-September. Several packages are available to make the most out of a trip, including lodging and guided adventure services.

Anchorage Depot Address: 411 West 1st Avenue, Anchorage, Alaska

Girdwood, less than an hour's drive south of Anchorage, was a prosperous gold mining and railroad town until the 1930s. It now finds its wealth in the mountains — specifically Alyeska Resort . After mine closures left the community a virtual ghost town and then the devastating blow of the 1964 earthquake, Girdwood relocated inland.

Today, the town is primarily a recreation area and is known as one of the premier Alaska ski resorts . Thousands of locals and tourists descend upon the slopes to "Ski Girdwood" every year. The Alyeska Resort encompasses over 1,700 acres, commonly described as "Steep and Deep."

It's not all snow sports that draw a crowd to Girdwood. The summer brings an equal amount of mountain recreation, including a wide variety of hiking and mountain biking trails. The Alyeska Aerial Tram , which brings skiers up the slope during the winter, also offers a scenic way to ascend the mountain in the summer.

As well as the ample snow sports and many things to do in the summer, the eclectic town provides fun places to eat, shop, and get a taste of the community.

The Alaska Zoo is a 25-acre facility with a variety of native wildlife species , including brown bears, wolves, musk oxen, Dall sheep, and reindeer. This Anchorage tourist attraction also has a small collection of exotic animals, including Amur Tigers and Bactrian Camels.

The zoo offers a wide range of events and special encounters, including Zoo Lights and opportunities to help feed the wolves. Visitors can combine a trip to the facility, which is located southeast of the town center while driving the Seward Highway .

Address: 4731 O'Malley Road, Anchorage, Alaska

Seward is the last stop on the Seward Highway, located south of Anchorage at the northeast end of Resurrection Bay . It's also the terminus of the Alaska Railroad . The town is a major access point to Kenai Fjords National Park and a great base to explore the surrounding area.

Visitors charter boats or planes and arrange fishing, hunting, or sightseeing trips from town. But Seward's chief tourist attraction is the Alaska SeaLife Center , home to Steller sea lions, harbor seals, and seabirds. At the center, look for species particular to the Gulf of Alaska, like the gangly king crab and impressive Giant Pacific octopus.

Visitors from Anchorage reach Seward with an approximately three-hour drive or a roughly four-hour train ride. This distance encourages an overnight visit, and several hotels line the northern tip of Resurrection Bay.

Kenai Fjords National Park , on the southern tip of the Kenai Peninsula, is known for its glaciers, coastal mountains, and fantastic landscapes centering on the 700-square-mile Harding Icefield . The park covers more than 900 square miles total, but the only area accessible by road is Exit Glacier . Here, visitors can walk on trails near the glacier, or take a guided tour to learn about the ice-shaped landscape.

The 8.2-mile round trip on the Harding Ice Field is a popular hiking trail leading from Exit Glacier, though the route is strenuous with over 3,000 feet of elevation gain. The national park is also explored by air or boat, either on a tour or independently. Hiring outfitters and guides or joining ranger-led programs is often the best way to see and learn about this park.

Exit Glacier is most easily accessible from Seward off Highway 9, which is home to other tourist attractions and visitor resources. Other tourist-friendly towns on the Kenai Peninsula include Homer and Kenai, accessible from Highway 1.

Rust's Flying Service has been in business since 1963, offering sightseeing seaplane tours to Denali National Park , Lake Clark National Park & Preserve, and over various surrounding glaciers. It has become a bit of an institution in this part of the country. The planes also take visitors to remote Alaska fishing lodges or on wildlife-viewing treks to see bears.

For anyone harboring the romantic idea of flying around Alaska in a bush plane, this will surely fulfill that dream. The planes include Cessnas, Beavers, and Turbine Otter seaplanes on floats, and the experience is as much about the flight as the sightseeing. Flights depart from Lake Hood, the world's largest seaplane base, with the Alaska Aviation Heritage Museum next door.

As an alternative high-flying adventure, a Helicopter Tour and Glacier Landing from Anchorage offers a similar perspective on the rugged Alaskan landscape. This 60-minute helicopter tour includes a scenic flight from Anchorage over glaciers and offers a good chance of seeing wildlife.

Address: 4525 Enstrom Circle, Anchorage, Alaska

The best place to stay in Anchorage is right downtown, near restaurants, the shops of 4th Street, and a few of the area's top attractions, including the Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center and the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. Below are some highly rated hotels in good locations:

Luxury Hotels :

• The Hotel Captain Cook is Anchorage's premier luxury hotel. Just a few steps from the Coastal Trail, it features well-appointed rooms and some with scenic city views.
• The large Anchorage Marriott Downtown is in the heart of the action and convenient to the cruise terminal and 4th Street.
• Close to a number of good restaurants, the Hilton has recently upgraded rooms, some with mountain views, and a pool.
• In the same category and just a short walk from the Anchorage Museum, the Sheraton Anchorage Hotel offers contemporary-styled rooms with good views.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• The Embassy Suites by Hilton is an all-suite hotel with a complimentary breakfast and free shuttle service to the airport and around the downtown area.
• For some historical charm, try the boutique Historic Anchorage Hotel . Built in 1916, this property has only 26 rooms and has a wonderful central location in the city center.

Budget Hotels:

• The Anchorage Grand Hotel is a good budget option, only a few short blocks from the downtown core.
• The Voyager Inn has large, bright rooms in a quiet location near downtown and a variety of good restaurants.
• The centrally located Clarion Suites Downtown offers decent rooms, a pool, and a complimentary breakfast.

More on Alaska

14 Must-See Places In Alaska For First Time Visitors

I t's no wonder why Alaska's nickname is "America's Last Frontier." Spanning over 400 million acres from tip to tip, many sections of this rugged state are only accessible by ferry or plane while others are traveled to on dirt roads. Covering the same length as the Lower 48 and as big as Texas, California, and Montana combined, the number of national parks in Alaska (eight) is a testament to its outstanding natural beauty. It is also brimming with history, from Russian occupation to the Gold Rush, and a tapestry of First Peoples heritage. Towering totem poles, sweeping scenery, and wildlife encounters like grizzly bears and wolves are just a glimpse of what you can expect on a first-time trip.

It's important for new Alaska visitors to keep in mind that much of the state is still remote, rugged, and untouched. While this certainly means there will be plenty of pristine wilderness to see, it also means that it can be inherently more dangerous. Wild animals, unpredictable weather conditions, and desolate roads are all factors that you might come face to face with. But if you're someone who likes the largest, biggest, or any other travel superlative, Alaska is the perfect destination. Using a mixture of information from Travel Alaska and Alaska's National Park Service, we've gathered together the perfect itinerary for those planning their very first trip to Alaska, whether you're a wildlife lover, history buff, bonafide adventurer, or have simply always wanted to see the 49th state.

Read more: 50 Of The Most Mesmerizing Places On Earth

Inside Passage

If you're looking for an easy way to see some of southern Alaska's most beautiful sights, look no further than a cruise along the Inside Passage. Stretching over 1,000 miles from Olympia, Washington, to Skagway, Alaska, the Inside Passage is a protected channel of water that follows a series of inlets and weaves past islands through the southern islands of the state. This is one of the most popular Alaskan cruise destinations as it avoids often rough seas and features truly stunning landscapes. Those who decide to set sail will witness craggy fjords, brilliant blue bays, and remote stretches of pristine coastline -- along with frequent wildlife sightings like humpback whales, seals, and bald eagles soaring above.

From Glacier Bay National Park to the Tongass National Forest, these geographic accessories are just as beautiful as the gem of the Inside Passage itself. Pair this with the fact that the Inside Passage is dotted with some of Alaska's most interesting cities, like Ketchikan, and you have the perfect choice for a first-time trip.

Ketchikan is a colorful town that's steeped in Alaskan history. If you decide to hop aboard an Alaskan cruise, chances are you'll make a pit stop here. The town's unique nickname, "Salmon Capital of the World," tells you most of why Ketchikan came to be in the first place, although the Gold Rush also had a huge effect. Nicknamed the "First City" because it was, well, the first city most people came across in Alaska, Ketchikan was also the largest city in the state in the early 1930s because of its plethora of salmon. 

No visit to Ketchikan is complete without strolling down Creek Street. Once a hotbed of prostitution, now its historic buildings line the very salmon-spawning stream that brought the city to life. Dolly's is the oldest brothel in town, and you can't miss its iconic neon green paint. Aside from a history lesson or two, there are many fun things to do around town in the warmer months. The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show features brawny men performing incredible feats like log rolling and sawing massive tree trunks, while the Misty Fjords National Monument's majestic waterfalls are just a seaplane ride away.

Ketchikan is known for its Tlingit heritage and is a great spot to seek out intricately carved totem poles. You can do so at the Totem Heritage Center or the Totem Bight Historical Park. One important factor to remember is that most of Ketchikan's main attractions close after mid-October.

Tongass National Forest

The Tongass National Forest is one of the largest temperate rainforests in the world. Once stretching all the way to Northern California, this is also the largest national forest in America. There's no end to the stunning views and wildlife encounters visitors will experience here, including bald eagles, salmon, and plentiful views of glaciers. Its proximity to Juneau and the cruises along the Inside Passage make it easy to visit and a marvelous addition to any Alaska itinerary for hikes along forest trails overrun by lush vegetation and carpets of peat bog.

The Mendenhall Glacier is located within the National Forest and is one of the most well-known glaciers in the state. You can see it from easy-access hiking trails, flightseeing tours, and cruises that approach it at a safe distance on Mendenhall Lake. Several trails afford the best views of this 12-mile-long glacier, including the Photo Point Trail and Nugget Falls Trail. Misty Fjords National Monument is also within the Tongass National Forest and is best explored on a day cruise. Visitors can see the dramatic waterfalls and abundant wildlife, all from the comfort of a heated boat. If you're feeling tired from your hiking adventures, seek out one of the Tongass' nearby hot springs on Chichagof Island, like the Tenakee Bath House.

Situated on an island along the Pacific side of the Alexander Archipelago, Sitka is an important player in Alaskan history and a wildlife lover's paradise. In a way, Sitka is a tale of two cultures. Russia and the Tlingit peoples vied for control of the area for decades in the 18th and 19th centuries, long before Alaska became a U.S. territory and later a state in 1959. Tlingit and Russian influence can be seen all over town, from the Russian Blockhouse and Orthodox Church to the intricately carved totem poles.

Sitka is a great place to stop for first-timers because of its historic ties. 13% of the city's population is First Nations, and the heritage is beautifully represented across town. Dive into Tlingit culture while standing in the towering shadows of Sitka National Historical Park's 20 different totem poles. If you want to continue exploring the local culture through your tastebuds, stop by Pel'Meni for a steaming hot plate of potato dumplings.

Both the Alaska Raptor Center and Fortress of the Bear are wonderful places to see wildlife up close in Sitka. A safe and controlled atmosphere to see bears, the Fortress of the Bear is a local sanctuary for orphaned bears, while eagles, owls, falcons, and hawks are all rehabilitated at the Alaska Raptor Center, which takes in almost 200 injured birds a year.

First-time visitors to Alaska shouldn't miss the chance to see the state capital, sitting along the edge of both the Inside Passage and the largest temperate rainforest in the world. Embrace one of Juneau's 250 hiking trails by day, discovering mountain vistas fringed with sprawling ocean views, and explore downtown by night through craft breweries and delicious seafood on the waterfront. Juneau's location makes it one of the best spots in Alaska for watching marine mammals, and humpbacks and orcas can be seen swimming off the city's shores from April to November.

Visitors can get the low down on Alaska's history at the Alaska State Museum, featuring exhibits and collections of local artifacts and Alaskan artists. The Goldbelt Tram takes visitors 1,800 feet above the city, and both the Timberline Bar & Grill and the Chilkat Center for the Arts sit at the top of the mountain. The sweeping views over the Gastineau Channel are spectacular.

Although there are many glaciers in Alaska, perhaps none capture the imagination quite like the Mendenhall Glacier with its turquoise coloring. The Mendenhall Glacier is located within the Tongass National Forest and is just a short drive away from Juneau by car. 

Glacier Bay National Park

From snow-capped peaks to brilliant blue ocean, Glacier Bay National Park encompasses the varying terrain that you can only find in America's "Last Frontier." Glacier Bay is both a World Heritage site and a UNESCO biosphere reserve, which tells you a little something about its importance. Over 10,000 years of human history collide with millions of years of intricate geography.  Even better, visiting Glacier Bay National Park is completely free!  

Day tour boats and independent cruises are gorgeous ways to cruise Bartlett Cove and see glaciers up close. Visitors should carve out time to visit the park's totem poles and the Huna Tribal House to learn about Glacier Bay's Tlingit heritage. You can find the Healing Totem Pole at the Bartlett Cove dock while two others stand stoically at the Huna House itself.

As its name might suggest, there are over 1,000 different glaciers in Glacier Bay National Park. Tucked along the Inside Passage, just one of the dozens of reasons to cruise here, this area is best explored by boat, giving passengers an up close and personal view of the glaciers reflected in the sea. Kayaking is another way to connect with nature in Glacier Bay, gliding past giant slabs of ice, playful seals, and exploring the tidewaters. It's incredibly important for first-timers to join a guided tour, as the tides can be difficult to read for newcomers.

Nicknamed the "Adventure Capital of Alaska," Haines is one of those quirky little cities that feels like it's at the edge of the world. This is often one of the last stops along the Inside Passage and where many visitors hop off to explore more of the state's interior. Sandwiched between the Chilkoot and Chilkat Inlets, Haines is also one of the last cities as southern Alaska slowly bleeds into the Interior and Arctic in the far north.

True to Haines' nickname, there's an endless array of fun activities to take part in. You can easily join a river rafting expedition on the Alsek River, get a birds-eye view of the nearby fjords by flightseeing, or go rock climbing. One of the quirkiest things to do in town is visit the Hammer Museum. This was the first of its kind and features over 2,500 hammers, everything from primitive rocks to modern-day inventions. If you're itching to see the Gold Rush mecca of Skagway, hop on the Haines Skagway Fast Ferry for beautiful scenery and a fun way to get back and forth.

Katmai National Park

There's one big reason why most visitors make the trek out to Katmai National Park -- brilliant, beautiful bears.

Katmai has one of the densest bear populations on Earth, a perfect storm of its remote terrain and the Brooks Stream becoming a bountiful sockeye salmon run in summer. Most of these ursine are grizzly bears who flock to the famous Brooks Falls to feast in preparation for their impending hibernation. July and September are the best times to witness this epic dining scene, and visitors can see the bears easily at Brooks Falls. You'll need to sign in at the Visitor Center and go through a quick "Bear School" beforehand.

Sitting on the precipice of the Aleutian Islands at the start of the Alaska Peninsula, Katmai National Park is utterly remote. This is one of the wildest places in Alaska, with unpredictable weather, dense wildlife, and sweeping mountain vistas, but its rugged beauty only adds to its magical qualities. The park was designated after a cataclysmic eruption known as the Novarupta in the early 1900s. This volcanic eruption was larger than both Vesuvius and Krakatau and led to an uptick in scientific research. Destinations in the park, like the inspiring Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, were created in the event. A visit to this park is reserved for true adventurers but makes for an unforgettable trip, especially if this is your first time in Alaska.

Kenai Fjords National Park

Kenai Fjords National Park showcases Alaska's cherished -- and truly jaw-dropping -- fjords. Thousands of years in the making, their beautiful and unique geography was carved by glaciers and is something you can't find anywhere else in America. Visitors can explore by land, driving right up to the park's famous Exit Glacier, but kayaking and boat tours are some of the best ways to see the park's seaside scenery and marine wildlife. Kayaking these waters will transport you back to when human-powered travel was the only option.

For visitors looking to explore by land, head to the Harding Icefield Trail. This 8.2-mile hike is challenging, with thousands of miles of elevation gain, but ends with striking views of the Exit Glacier's ice field. Consider staying in the park's Coastal Public Use Cabins, an incredible accommodation option within the park perfect for the adventurous.

It's no secret that Kenai Fjords is difficult to access, and first-timers should utilize the park's facilities and tours from nearby towns to get around. The quaint town of Seward is on the doorstep of Kenai Fjords National Park and is one of the best bases for adventuring in this stunning natural space. Boat tours of the park also leave daily from Seward in the summer months. Hot tip: Make sure to bundle up, even in Alaska's summer season , as these cruises can be surprisingly chilly!

Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska yet still retains the state's rugged spirit. Ringed by snow-capped peaks, visitors can experience the great outdoors by trekking across glaciers, snowmobiling, or witnessing breaching humpbacks. Anchorage is also one of the best places to uncover Alaskan history through the city's many museums, such as the Alaska Native Heritage Center. There's no shortage of things to do here, which makes it one of the best places to visit for a first trip.

Like Fairbanks, Anchorage also experiences the Midnight Sun, and sometimes the aurora borealis makes an appearance, although both of these phenomena are less exaggerated. Anchorage is the start of the Iditarod, a legendary sled dog race that ends in Nome, up to 1,000 miles away. Being in town for the kick-off in March is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and you can even try your hand at dog sledding any time of year! If you want to partake in more truly Alaskan adventure, sign up for gold panning at the historic Crow Creek Gold Mine.

Cheers to your time in Anchorage with the city's claim to fame -- the Duck Fart. While the name certainly doesn't sound appetizing, this one-of-a-kind cocktail is unique to Alaska and made from a combination of Kahlua, Baileys, and whiskey -- the perfect medley to warm you up from the inside. Yum!

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park

Wrangell-St. Elias is the largest national park in the United States, sweeping across 13.2 million Alaskan acres. The park spans from the Canadian border to the remote Richardson Highway in the west and is an exciting addition to a first-time trip. If you want to get a slice of off-the-beaten-path Alaska, this is one of the best ways to do it! Your first stop should be at one of several Visitor Centers scattered throughout the park. These are your headquarters for information about this remote area and great places to pick the park ranger's brains about their recommendations.

While Wrangell-St. Elias reveals a tremendous amount of Alaska's trademark natural scenery, it has few services, roads can become treacherous, and visitors should prepare for its isolation. The park is broken up into several regions based on road access. Kennecott is one of the best sections with bonafide Gold Rush towns, mines, and beautiful glacier hikes. The Kennecott Mines National Landmark is located within the park and includes an interpretive village and exhibits. You can even tour the mine itself with St. Elias Alpine Guides. Visitors should also consider a flightseeing tour, one of the best ways to see the sheer size of Wrangell-St. Elias National Parl.

Talkeetna is an artsy community of just 1,200 people tucked away north of Anchorage. This little city was once a Gold Rush boomtown but is now a popular staging area for ascents of Denali. You might even see the "Great One" (Denali's nickname) from town on a clear day. You'll probably spend your first moments in Talkeetna strolling down the historic main street, so pop into Nagley's Store to fuel up with a cappuccino and check out the National Historic Register-listed property yourself.

Visitors can participate in activities paying homage to Talkeetna's many historic phases by gold panning, riding the Alaskan Railroad, or hiking in the nearby Denali National Park. Although many Alaskan towns offer flightseeing, a tour from Talkeetna, with views of Denali, is arguably the best in the entire state.

If seeing the climbers and trekkers preparing for their ascent of Denali has piqued your interest, head to the Talkeetna Historical Society Museum. The nearby memorial at Talkeetna Cemetery dedicated to the climbers who never made it off the mountain is another solemn sight. End your swing through town at the Denali Brewing Company, sipping on a Mother Ale. They also own the Alaska Cider Works and Alaska Meadery if you favor the sweet stuff.

Denali National Park

If ever there was a place to visit in Alaska deserving the nickname "America's Last Frontier," Denali is it. The tallest peak in North America sits at the center of Denali National Park. Once called Mount McKinley, its Athabascan name of Denali was resurrected in 1980. The mountain draws 600,000 visitors annually, making it one of the most popular national parks in Alaska.

If you hope to see wildlife on your trip to Alaska, you've come to the right place. Denali is home to "The Big Five," namely grizzly bears, caribou, moose, wolves, and Dall sheep. With over 6 million acres of wilderness to explore, it can be difficult to know where to start. One main road cuts through the heart of the park, and it can only be driven with private vehicles to Mile 15, another great reason to hop on a park bus. Denali's bus system is extensive, and you'll want to try and ride it as far as possible for your best chances of seeing animals and magnificent mountain views. The bus stops for restroom breaks, wildlife encounters, and, of course, the incredible scenery.

Although it's possible to visit Denali no matter the time of year, winter can be desolate, and most park services are limited or closed. This can also be a magical time to visit as dangerous wildlife encounters are minimized, and the park is blanketed with snow.

Aptly nicknamed the "Golden Heart City," Fairbanks was at the very heart of Alaska's Gold Rush. Sitting just below the Arctic Circle in Interior Alaska, Fairbanks experiences both the swirling Northern Lights and summer's Midnight Sun, giving visitors from the Lower 48 a special treat. If it's your first trip to Alaska, this is one city you can't miss. First-timers hoping to catch a glimpse of the aurora borealis without venturing too far off the beaten path, this is your golden ticket.

Fairbanks' Museum of the North deserves a dedicated visit if not for its iconic antler arch alone. The famous Magic Bus from "Into the Wild" was once near Denali National Park but has been displayed at the Museum of the North since 2020. The Morris Thompson Cultural Center is another excellent stop if you are interested in Alaskan history and features interesting exhibits on Athabascan culture and Interior Alaska.

You can't leave Fairbanks without trying some of the local specialties like reindeer and Yukon potatoes, of course! The Pump House is the best place in town to grab a bite to eat, with a nostalgic interior and delightful terrace for when the weather is good.

Read the original article on Explore .

Lonely Plan-it: A fishing trip to Alaska

Apr 24, 2024 • 7 min read

Bird Creek in the shadow of the Chugach Mountains is lined with fisherman hoping to catch silver salmon © Karen Timmons / Getty Images

For many Alaska visitors, the chance to drop a line in the briny depths of the ocean, or cast a fly rod upon a rushing river, is the reason they’ve traveled north – and for good reason. There is nothing quite like fresh fish – caught amid the stunning scenery of Alaska – consumed over a dinner table filled with tales of the day itself.

Alaska’s commercial fishing industry is its second-largest economic generator, with a wide variety of species found across the state. From mid-April to August, saltwater fishing vessels of varying sizes and shapes take to the sea and net or line-catch salmon, halibut, cod and other species for markets around the world. Sport fishing is also a huge business in Alaska, including the Arctic and Northwest regions, where species like Arctic char are considered a fly-fisher’s dream for their fight on a line. 

For these reasons, you’ll need to consider the seasons, types of fishing and the most accessible locations for your fishing holiday. In a state with 3,000 rivers, three million lakes, and over 6,000 miles of coastline, the toughest part is deciding where to go. 

What are the regulations for fishing in Alaska?

The Alaska Department of Fish and Game is the state’s overseeing agency for all things sport fishing, and it tightly controls where, when, and what species you can catch. Dividing the state into three regions (Southcentral, Interior, and Southeastern) the agency provides up-to-date listings of open and closed areas, and forecasts for salmon runs each spring, when many anglers are making  plans for fishing trips. 

All nonresidents aged 16 and older must purchase and carry a current fishing license , available either online or at retail outlets in just about every city. Additionally, those wanting to fish for king salmon must secure a stamp indicating this intention, which is added to your license. It must be noted here that the ADF&G does not take fishing without a license lightly: officers are constantly patrolling shorelines and salt waterways – and fines for non-licensed fishers are hefty.

Know your halibut from chinook

It behooves the fishing visitor to have an idea of what type of fish they’d like to catch while in Alaska. Those looking for salmon have the choice to fish in either saltwater near Whittier, Seward, Valdez or Homer and nearby environs; or in the rivers and streams flowing near these communities, but also in Anchorage and along the Southwest regional areas like Dillingham and Katmai National Park. 

Know that the farther away from the road system one goes, the more expensive fishing will get, especially if you need a float plane to reach a river. Alaska's waters house five species of salmon: chum, sockeye, pink, chinook and coho. Each spawn at different times of year, beginning with chinook (also known as king salmon) in late spring.

Other freshwater fish include Arctic char, grayling and trout – the latter usually fished in September and October. 

Saltwater species are abundant and accessible in any harbor community, but halibut are predominant in the community of Homer at the tip of the Kenai Peninsula . In fact it is known as the “halibut capital of the world” with fish hauled in here reaching 200 pounds in weight. 

Best destinations for a DIY fishing trip

• Cast a line into the river for world-class salmon fishing on the Kenai River near Cooper Landing .
• Head out to deeper waters of Cook Inlet from Homer to fish for halibut. 
• Show up to Ship Creek in Anchorage and rent the entire kit to fish like a local. 
• Fly-fish the sparkling waters of the Little Tok River near the community of Tok, in the Yukon-Charley Rivers Preserve.
• Try the family-friendly Bering Sea Crab Fisherman's Tour in Ketchikan for a look at the dangerous deep-sea crab industry.  

Top tips for fishing in Juneau

Located along Alaska’s Inside Passage, Juneau is a great landing spot for Southeast fishers wanting to haul in a halibut or salmon. Charters depart from both downtown docks and Auke Bay about 15 miles from the city center. 

Where to stay: Spend the night downtown at the Silverbow Inn and take in the charm of Alaska’s capital city. 

Where to eat: For fresh seafood and local atmosphere, dine at the Hangar on the Wharf and watch floatplanes and ships come in and out. 

What to expect in Seward 

A popular destination for both cruise ship and independent travelers, Seward is also a hotspot for Anchorage residents looking for a weekend getaway. The calm waters of Resurrection Bay glean salmon, halibut, rockfish and cod and are great places for youngsters to learn the art of saltwater fishing. 

Where to stay: Harbor 360 hotel sits right at the small boat harbor and offers a complimentary breakfast and access to downtown Seward activities, including fishing charters.

Where to eat: The Cookery in downtown Seward is small but its menu of fresh seafood and produce packs a delicious punch. 

Visiting Valdez

This scenic Prince William Sound community lives hard by the sea, with daily salmon, halibut, and rockfish charters departing from its small boat harbor. Visit during the pink salmon run in early July and see the commercial purse seiners hauling up enormous nets of delicious fish.

Where to stay: Totem Hotel and Suites is a good option and a short distance from the downtown docks. 

Where to eat: Try The Fat Mermaid for locally-sourced seafood right along the main street of Valdez and within walking distance to activities.

Remote fishing experiences in Alaska

If a remote fishing experience is on your bucket list and within budget, these lodges provide a truly immersive once-in-a-lifetime Alaska fishing trip. 

Waterfall Resort

Located on scenic Prince of Wales Island in Southeast Alaska, this homey lodge is reached via a 45-minute floatplane ride from Ketchikan and offers pristine scenery while fishing for salmon in the calm waterways around the island. This former salmon cannery-turned fishing lodge is a wonderful choice for groups and families. 

Alaska Sportsman’s Lodge

A luxury resort located near one of the most productive sockeye salmon waterways in Alaska, the Kvichak River, this lodge is for serious fishers, with daily guided forays into the wilderness to cast a line. Want to fly fish for trout? This is the place for that as well, with large fish regularly caught and released. 

Tordrillo Lodge

Want to throw in some other adventures while still finding time to fish? This hidden lodge deep in the Tordrillo Mountains just an hour floatplane ride from Anchorage is pretty much perfect, with salmon and trout fishing intermingled with heli-skiing, hiking, and rafting. 

Be bear aware

Alaska’s bears frequent the same fishing rivers and streams as humans, and they always have the right of way. If you are fishing without a guide, review the Alaska Department of Fish and Game rules and guidelines for fishers , and always keep an eye out for bears, especially if fishing in the long, dusky Alaska evening hours. 

What to pack for your fishing trip to Alaska

If taking a charter vessel, dress for inclement weather and a near-constant day of wetness and fish scales. Wear rubber boots, or non-slip, close-toed shoes – and bring rain gear, a warm hat and gloves. 

For those heading out into the open waters of Prince William Sound or the Gulf of Alaska, consider pre-dosing with an anti-seasickness medication or wearing a behind-the-ear patch to prevent nausea during the trip. Even the most ardent sailors sometimes feel the rolling ocean swells to be too much to manage without medicine. 

For river fishers, waders are a must, and non-felt wading shoes. 

Don’t have gear? There’s no need to worry: most guiding outfits provide everything you need for a comfortable experience. 

Here is more expert advice to help you plan your trip to Alaska:

The best time to go to Alaska? Save this guide on when to visit .  Get around in Alaska with these  transport tips .  Be sure to add these top experiences to your Alaska itinerary. And make time for some epic road trips  to the highlights in Alaska.

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The 18 best places to see the northern lights.

Check the aurora borealis off your bucket list.

The Best Places for the Northern Lights

Getty Images

The northern lights, known as the aurora borealis, are a spectacular natural light show visible at certain times of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. They occur when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with gases in the Earth's atmosphere, creating vibrant streaks of blue, green, pink and violet dancing across the night sky. 2024 and 2025 are an excellent time to catch the northern lights: Solar activity will be at a peak, making for a more impressive experience, if you're in the right place.

The best places to see the aurora borealis have little light pollution, clear skies and no precipitation. The lights are only visible at northern latitudes when it's dark outside, so the months from September to April are best for seeing the aurora. There's also a Southern Hemisphere counterpart, the aurora australis; there are fewer easy spots from which to view this phenomenon, but if you're lucky, it can be equally brilliant.

For more information on the northern lights, scroll down to the FAQ section at the bottom of this page. Read on to discover the top destinations where you can see the kaleidoscopic northern and southern lights.

Fairbanks, Alaska

Fairbanks is by far one of the best places in the world to view the northern lights, as it's located directly under the auroral oval. This ring-shaped zone sits around the Earth's geomagnetic North Pole and is generally associated with the most vibrant aurora sightings. Visitors can expect to see the lights on an average of four out of five clear nights during aurora season, which lasts from late August to late April.

You can book a northern lights tour to see the aurora from the springs and tubs at Chena Hot Springs Resort. This excursion includes round-trip transportation to the resort from town, a soak in the hot springs, a visit to the Fairbanks Aurora Ice Museum and an aurora viewing tour; dinner and drinks centered around Alaska produce are an option extra with hot drinks supplied.

There's more to Fairbanks than just the northern lights: If you visit in late summer, consider family-friendly activities like a ride on the Riverboat Discovery or gold panning. For a festive holiday experience in the winter, head around 15 miles out of Fairbanks to visit the Santa Claus House in the city of North Pole. Travelers can also see ice sculptures in February and March at the impressive World Ice Art Championships or take a dog-sledding or snowmobiling tour .

Where to stay: For excellent chances of aurora viewing, book a private igloo at Borealis Basecamp, a top glamping resort located on 100 remote acres of boreal forest about 25 miles from Fairbanks. With activities like dog-sledding on top of aurora viewing, past visitors regularly describe it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Tromsø, Norway

Located about 220 miles above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is one of several top spots to view the northern lights in Norway. At the darkest point of the aurora season – which runs from September to early April – the sun doesn't rise in this northern part of the country, although there is twilight during the day. With this level of darkness, there are more opportunities to see the aurora.

Tromsø itself is a small but lively city, so there's plenty to see and do when you're not looking up at the sky, including a visit to the beautiful Arctic Cathedral. In late January to early February, the city hosts the Northern Lights Festival, a 10-day music and performing arts event featuring a variety of musical genres.

Aurora chasers can view the lights on their own while in town, but to get a better view, it's recommended to head away from the city lights. Arctic Circle Tours is one company offering guided trips, with small groups for a more personal vibe. Alternatively, adventure-seekers can embark on an exhilarating husky trekking expedition in the Arctic wilderness.

Where to stay: For accommodations with harbor views, look no further than the Scandic Ishavshotel – guests love it for its convenient central location in the city, as well as its plus-sized breakfast buffet with plenty of choices.

Luosto and Rovaniemi (Lapland), Finland

Lapland is located within the Arctic Circle in the northernmost part of Finland. The northern lights are most visible here between the end of August and April – and approximately 200 times a year – so there are many opportunities for aurora spotting. Finnish Lapland is also known as home to the Sámi people (the only recognized Indigenous group in the European Union region), some 200,000 reindeer and Santa Claus – who can be visited in the town of Rovaniemi, the region's largest city and a great base for your aurora expedition.

Consider venturing roughly 70 miles north of Rovaniemi to the resort town of Luosto, set among the picturesque and hilly landscape of Pyhä-Luosto National Park. Here, you can also spend a magical evening outdoors under star-filled skies during a reindeer-drawn sleigh ride through the snow-covered forests. Jaakkola Reindeer Farm offers a reindeer sleigh tour to spot the aurora once weekly; it includes a stop to warm up at a bonfire camp with snacks, hot beverages and local fireside stories.

Where to stay: For a bucket list experience, watch the impressive light show from a glass igloo at Santa's Hotel Aurora & Igloos in Luosto. Past visitors love the cozy atmosphere here, boosted by amenities like saunas and log fireplaces. If you're sticking to Rovaniemi, the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel is a stunning choice, with designer cabins perched among the snow-covered taiga forest.

Orkney, Scotland

This group of captivating (and mostly uninhabited) islands, located about 10 miles off Scotland's remote northern coast, is one of the best places to see the northern nights in the U.K. Fall and winter are the best seasons to witness the aurora, also known in local Shetland dialect as the "Mirrie Dancers," with fall bringing the highest proportion of clear nights. A few places to see the spectacular light show include along the coast at Birsay or the Broch of Gurness, an archaeological ruin on a sweeping and dramatic coastline.

In addition to the aurora, Orkney is home to breathtaking coastal landscapes and more sheep than you can count (try some local lamb, if you can). Travelers can also visit the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with several monuments dating back 5,000 years.

Where to stay: During your visit, plan to stay in the historic town of Kirkwall, the capital of the Orkney Islands: The no-fuss Ayre Hotel offers harbor views, and past visitors compliment the hearty meals in the hotel restaurant. Spot the aurora close to town at Inganess Bay and Wideford Hill.

Yellowknife, Canada

Yellowknife, the capital of Canada 's Northwest Territories, dubs itself the "Aurora Capital of the World." Thanks to its position in the middle of the auroral oval, the city puts on one of the world's most awe-inspiring light shows. The period from mid-November to the beginning of April is the recommended time to spot the aurora, but it's also possible to see the aurora during more hospitable weather from late summer to early fall as the lights are visible up to 240 days a year.

Located on the northern shore of Great Slave Lake, Yellowknife boasts winter sports such as ice fishing and cross-country skiing. If you visit in March, plan to attend the monthlong Snowkings' Winter Festival, which features events and activities like a snow-carving competition, a snow castle, live music and more.

For a unique experience, book a tour through Aurora Village to view the lights. The property will pick you up from your hotel and take you to its site, where you can stay warm in a tent while sipping hot beverages. The Aboriginal-owned Aurora Village also offers activities such as dog-sledding or snowshoeing excursions.

Where to stay: Warm up in the fireside lounge at The Explorer Hotel in Yellowknife. Previous visitors note the warm and helpful staff as a strength here.

Jukkasjärvi, Sweden

The optimal time for seeing the illuminated skies in the northern part of Sweden, known as Swedish Lapland, is between early September and late March. The small Swedish village of Jukkasjärvi sits around 125 miles above the Arctic Circle on the Torne River and is an ideal locale for aurora viewing. You'll fly to the nearby Kiruna Airport to get here. With the village's origins dating back to the 17th century, you can still find some of the original homesteads, including an old timber cottage. Today the village boasts 800 residents – and more than 1,000 dogs.

Where to stay: If you're up for a chilly overnight adventure, reserve accommodations at the world's first permanent ice hotel, the aptly named Icehotel 365. Each of its artist-designed suites is sculpted from ice with a unique theme and maintains temperatures around minus 5 degrees Celsius (about 23 degrees Fahrenheit). The rooms also feature beds with reindeer hides and thermal sleeping bags so you can bundle up during the night. While you're at the property, take advantage of the guided "Northern Lights Safari on Snowmobile" or embark on the "Moose Safari on Horseback" atop an Icelandic horse.

Reykjavik, Iceland

October through March is the best time to chase the aurora borealis in Iceland . There are numerous natural parks and attractions throughout the country where you can view the show during the long and dark winter, but the capital city of Reykjavik also offers many options for accommodations, restaurants, tours and other activities for your visit. For optimum aurora viewing in the city away from the light pollution, head to Öskjuhlið. This wooded and hilly area in Reykjavik sits at 200 feet above sea level and has walkways and paths where you can see the nighttime show.

Atop this hill sits Perlan, which houses the only planetarium in the country and a museum featuring exhibits about Iceland. Perlan is also home to the world's first indoor ice cave and glacier exploratorium. During your visit, don't miss the panoramic views of the city from the building's fourth-floor observation deck. From this vantage point, you'll be able to see the Snæfellsjökull glacier; Keilir, a volcanic mountain; and Esja, the mountain of Reykjavik.

Where to stay: While in Reykjavik, splurge on an overnight tour with Buubble Tours. This experience includes breathtaking sightseeing spots and a night spent under the magical northern skies in a transparent bubble at the 5 Million Star Hotel. For longer stays, consider the eco-friendly Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel, with sweeping views of the city – guests love it for its cozy yet chic Scandinavian design.

Southern Iceland

While Reykjavik is a great aurora-viewing spot if you like having amenities close by, consider getting out into Iceland's stunning, otherworldly countryside for a unique backdrop for the northern lights. One unique place to see them is the black sand beach at Reynisfjara (but watch out for the dangerous waves here). Alternatively, head to Jökulsárlón, a glacial lagoon and seal habitat, where the aurora's reflections in the icy water are truly beautiful.

There's no shortage of tours that will stop by these locations and more for possible aurora sightings. Consider a 10- or 13-day tour around the country with Fun Travel, or a four-day option from Arctic Adventures. If you want to do things at your own place, it's also possible to self-drive – just know that road conditions can be icy, particularly in the depths of winter (although Icelandic roads are generally well-maintained).

Where to stay: Hotel Rangá is a formidable option for aurora-spotting. It offers a variety of special amenities, such as aurora wake-up calls, a lookout deck and snowsuits to keep you warm if you're outside viewing the lights. Past visitors praise Rangá for being a comfortable yet luxurious place to relax, be it in the outdoor hot tubs or the cozy and sociable bar.

Kangerlussuaq, Greenland

Greenland may not be the most accessible place to travel for viewing the northern lights, with limited flight options (mostly via Iceland), but those who make it here will be thrilled they did. The tundra of Kalaallit Nunaat – the Greenlandic name for the country – is one of the best places on the globe to see the aurora from September to early April.

For the more adventurous aurora seekers, head to the top of the Greenland Ice Cap for spectacular views of the lights. This impressive glacier covers 80% of the country and is accessible via the tiny town of Kangerlussuaq. Located on a fjord right along the Arctic Circle, the town, often described as a gateway to Greenland, was a former U.S. Air Force base and is now home to Greenland's main airport. The town is known for having clear skies on some 300 nights per year, so chances of a sighting are particularly good here.

Tour company Guide to Greenland offers various tours, from two-hour aurora-viewing trips to a tough but rewarding multi-night dog-sledding expedition across the ice. For a less strenuous experience, companies like Nordic Saga Tours offer cruises through the Arctic landscapes around Kangerlussuaq.

Viking cruise along Norway's coast

Courtesy of Viking

Embrace the winter and set sail for the Arctic Circle to experience the aurora in northern Norway. The 13-day "In Search of the Northern Lights" cruise itinerary with Viking departs from London for the North Sea with stops in ports of call that are top aurora-viewing locales, including Tromsø, Alta and Narvik, plus a stop in Amsterdam en route. The cruise ends in Bergen, Norway.

While on land, take in the natural beauty of the snow-blanketed landscapes and book bucket list excursions like a night spent in an igloo or a reindeer sledding adventure. You can also chase the lights into the wilderness by snowmobile, take a dog sled ride under the stars or view them from a Sámi tent atop the mountain Pæska in Alta. This Viking Ocean Cruises itinerary is offered with departure dates from mid-January to mid-March.

Headlands International Dark Sky Park, Michigan

Regarded as one of the top spots in the U.S. to see the aurora outside Alaska, Headlands International Dark Sky Park sits at the top of Michigan 's lower peninsula, less than 5 miles from Mackinaw City. While the northern lights are less common here due to the relatively southern location, the best time to catch a glimpse of this phenomenon is typically during the spring and fall – and appearances can usually be predicted a couple of days in advance. The park even maintains an online Clear Sky Chart so you can check the weather forecast before you go.

There are also other stargazing opportunities throughout the year at Headlands. During the summer months the Milky Way is visible across the sky, and late summer evenings entertain visitors with meteor showers.

Where to stay: If you're visiting between late April and the end of October, splurge on a stay at Mission Point Resort on Mackinac Island, where the aurora should also be visible. Guests describe this iconic property situated along the shoreline of Lake Huron as positively charming, thanks to its historic nature and manicured grounds. The resort also offers a host of outdoor activities from bike rentals to swimming.

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Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Martha Shuff | Courtesy of Voyageurs National Park

Located on the international border between Minnesota and Ontario, Voyageurs National Park is an approximately 218,000-acre labyrinth of boreal forests, lakes and streams. Voyageurs is Minnesota's only national park; it's also unique in that the park's interior is accessible only by boat, unless you visit by snowmobile in winter. As a certified International Dark Sky Park , Voyageurs provides opportunities to view the Milky Way on clear evenings, especially in the summer. Year-round aurora viewing is also possible on evenings with clear dark skies, but chances are better during the winter, when it's dark for longer.

For a guided stargazing tour – including the Milky Way, the constellations and (if you're lucky) the northern lights – book with Voyageurs Outfitters. If you're on your own, park officials note that almost any campsite is a good spot for northern lights viewing and stargazing. You can also check out the boat launch areas around Ash River, Kabetogama Lake and the Rainy Lake Visitor Center for top-notch views.

Where to stay: Those who prefer to sleep in a warm, cozy bed instead of camping under the stars can make reservations at the Cantilever Distillery + Hotel, a boutique Trademark Collection by Wyndham property in the nearby town of Ranier, Minnesota. Visitors report that there's a lot to like here, from the industrial-chic rooms to friendly staff to top-notch cocktails in the active distillery on the premises.

Abisko National Park, Sweden

Given its Arctic location, Sweden is one of the prime spots for aurora viewing in the Northern Hemisphere, with Swedish Lapland at the top of the list. The fall and winter months (from September to March) offer the best opportunities to witness the spectacle, as there is more darkness than light during the days.

If you're up for the Arctic adventure, December is an ideal month to visit Abisko National Park, which some regard as one of the best places on Earth to see the lights dance across the sky. The park's mountainous terrain and clear dark skies offer dramatic front-row seats for viewing the northern lights. The Aurora Sky Station is one of the best vantage points to see the aurora in the park. Join one of the expert presentations to learn about the science behind this fascinating phenomenon.

If you'd prefer to chase the lights with a curated tour, professional photographers and aurora-chasing guides at Visit Abisko lead three- to four-hour tours throughout the fall and winter. If you can, try to join the tours in fall, as this time of year offers a unique opportunity to view the lights both in the sky and reflected in the lakes and rivers, which you won't see in the winter months.

Where to stay: For cozy Nordic vibes, stay at Abisko Mountain Lodge, which also offers activities like ice climbing and snowmobile tours in winter. Guests love the excellent restaurant here, which offers Swedish specialties ranging from salmon to moose.

Nellim, Finland

Courtesy of Wilderness Hotels

Located a stone's throw from the Russian border in Finnish Lapland, this remote Arctic destination is a top-rated locale to view the northern lights due to the lack of light pollution. You'll be seriously out of the way of any built-up areas, as there's not even a paved road into Nellim. The best time to visit is between December and early April. This village is a great place to hunker down in a lodge and relax while enjoying a slice of life in the Finnish wilderness.

Where to stay: The Nellim Wilderness Hotel offers a perfect base with year-round activities, including aurora-chasing tours by car, snowmobile or on snowshoes. You can even take a sleigh ride through the snow to a campsite on Lake Inari to spot the aurora in pristine nature.

Beyond standard rooms, the Wilderness Hotel also offers glass-roofed cabins, as well as classic log cabins and bubble-shaped accommodations for two where guests can watch the dancing lights through the glass roof above your warm, cozy bed. When you're not chasing the lights, enjoy other Arctic activities like a husky safari, ice fishing, snowmobiling or a day in the snow meeting the local reindeer.

Saariselkä and Kakslauttanen, Finland

These two towns are around 150 miles above the Arctic Circle, with a prime location under the auroral oval, allowing as many as 200 opportunities per year to see the northern lights (weather permitting, of course). This area in Finnish Lapland is known for its stunning scenery, Sámi culture, cross-country and downhill skiing, and Urho Kekkonen National Park – one of Finland's largest.

Ski enthusiasts can roll two trips into one by hitting the slopes by day in Saariselkä and aurora spotting by night at Finland's northernmost ski resort. March into early April is the best time to view the aurora, as the Finnish Meteorological Institute notes that the weather is usually clearer at this time of year. But it's possible to see the northern lights at any time during the season from late August to early or mid-April.

Where to stay: Seven miles south of Saariselkä sits the village of Kakslauttanen, where you can book two- or four-person Glass Igloos at the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort. The new Kelo-Glass Igloos, which sleep up to six, mix the comforts of a log chalet with the visibility of the glass roof; enjoy a private sauna, a fireplace and more. There's also an impressive selection of year-round tours and activities at this resort, including northern lights excursions on snowmobiles or by horse-drawn carriage.

Stewart Island, New Zealand

Courtesy of RealNZ

Although they may be isolated, some far-south destinations offer the chance to see the aurora australis – or southern lights. While you might be able to see them year-round in some locations (just as with the northern lights), certain months are better for aurora viewing in the Southern Hemisphere. Stewart Island is regarded as one of the top spots to see the brilliant display in New Zealand , with 85% of the island encompassed by Rakiura National Park, so there are few people and virtually no light pollution. You can reach Stewart Island by flying in from Invercargill or taking a ferry from Bluff.

New Zealand's winter months – June to August – are the best time to see the southern lights; spring and fall are also not bad times to spot them. The brighter summer months, between December and February, make it more difficult to spot the aurora, but there's still a chance you'll catch a glimpse between midnight and 4 a.m.

Where to stay: Consider reserving a room with at Stewart Island Lodge, an intimate bed-and-breakfast. This beautiful property is just minutes by foot from the village of Oban, and the property will pick you up at the ferry terminal for your stay. Past visitors rave about the spectacular views of Halfmoon Bay and the Foveaux Strait from both the rooms and lodge terrace.

Tasmania sits approximately 150 miles south of mainland Australia. This mountainous island is one of relatively few places on the planet where it's theoretically possible to see the aurora 365 days a year due to its latitude, which allows for full darkness even on summer nights. The capital city of Hobart is the easiest point of entry: It's home to Tasmania's largest airport and serves as a convenient base. The city's burgeoning food and cultural scenes will also give you plenty to see and do.

From here you'll be able to reach several great viewing locations with unobstructed and open views of the sea along the southern and southeast coastlines, like Goat Bluff and Tinderbox Bay. When you're not staring at the night sky, splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter flight with Tasmanian Air Tours. Depending on your whims, your private pilot can whisk you away to soar over the sea cliffs; stop at a local winery to sample local vintages; or head south to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Port Arthur , Tasmania 's historic and most notorious prison.

Where to stay: Reserve accommodations at The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Hobart. The historic luxury property is situated along the lively waterfront area with harbor views. Past guests admired the historic building housing the hotel and loved the heritage rooms featuring gas fireplaces for those cold Tasmanian nights.

Expedition cruise to Antarctica

If you're one of the lucky few people on the planet to travel to the southernmost continent on Earth, it may be pricey, but you'll have an adventure of a lifetime in Antarctica, especially if the aurora illuminates the sky. The southern lights are most visible in the winter months (between March and October), but due to weather conditions, only researchers brave the Antarctic winter – and they mostly stay indoors.

However, all hope is not lost if you seek to view the aurora australis in Antarctica. Late-season expedition cruises to this continent offered in March also bring the opportunity to view the southern lights and enjoy the end of Antarctica's fleeting summer. As the days shorten in length, you may encounter light snow across the extreme landscape and ice starting to form on the water's surface.

When it comes to wildlife viewing, humpback whale sightings are abundant, and you'll still see penguin colonies – including king and gentoo penguins. You can also keep your eyes peeled for elephant seals, leopard seals, wandering albatross and other species of birds. When night falls on clear evenings, look for the light show in the southern sky. Companies that offer March voyages include Swoop Antarctica, Atlas Ocean Voyages, Silversea Cruises , Aurora Expeditions and Hurtigruten Expeditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

There's no one location that's widely accepted as the best place to see the northern lights. However, the strongest light displays are within what's called the "auroral oval": a rough circle around the Earth's magnetic northern pole that tends to occur around 60 to 70 degrees of latitude. The oval's exact size expands and contracts (some more southerly destinations can fall under it when the aurora is particularly strong), but there are certain locations that generally fall within the oval most of the time.

These places include:

• Central and northern Alaska
• Large areas of Yukon, the Northwest Territories and northern Quebec in Canada
• Southern Greenland
• Far northern Norway, Sweden and Finland

Within these areas, it could be argued that Iceland is the best place to see the aurora as it experiences much milder temperatures than some other areas within the oval. But this is subjective, and some travelers may prefer a location like Yellowknife in Canada for a full-on, very cold Arctic experience.

The northern lights are only visible when it's dark out. Since many of the best places to see them are so far north that they experience near-constant daylight in the summer, you'll generally want to schedule a trip between late August and early April. However, within this time period, there's some debate about the best time to catch the lights. For example, the aurora tends to be more active around the September and March equinoxes due to stronger solar winds – but on the other hand, your chances of seeing them may be higher in the depths of winter, since there's longer nights and therefore a longer window in which they might appear.

In more southern locations like Minnesota, it may be possible to see the light show in the summer months, but it's still advisable to go at a time when the nights are longer. It can also be worth trying to schedule your northern lights trip when there's a new moon: While the aurora can shine through moonlight, it may be harder to see if there's a full moon.

Of course, cloudy weather can block the aurora even if you go at the right time of year. So, it may be wise to research the local weather patterns at your chosen destination to find out if there's a month where you can expect clearer skies. In many cases, though, there's a little luck involved.

These two countries can offer excellent views of the northern lights, since both are directly under the typical auroral oval. Yet there are some differences to be aware of.

In Norway, you'll need to head to the north of the country to catch the aurora: While they have been sighted in Oslo , the capital and largest city, it's too far south to be a reliable vantage point. Cities like Tromsø are popular spots, but direct flights there are only possible from some European cities, so North Americans will have to take connecting flights. On the other hand, Iceland is generally easier to reach, with direct flights to its capital, Reykjavik, from a large number of U.S. destinations (particularly from the East Coast) with no further connection required.

Since clear skies are key for seeing the northern lights, weather is another factor to consider. In November, December and March, Reykjavik has statistically slightly more frequent clear skies, while in January and February, Tromsø is a little better, but the difference isn't big: Both places have clear skies only around 25 to 30% of the time in these months. Reykjavik has slightly warmer weather, though, so between that and the ease of access, it has a slight edge over Norway for seeing the northern lights.

Alaska and Iceland are known for stellar aurora light shows, so deciding between them may depend on which destination you find more convenient and more to your tastes. In Alaska , the city of Fairbanks is considered a great spot to catch the northern lights. (They can still be seen elsewhere in the state – for example, in Anchorage, although they're not so common in more southern locations like Juneau). The advantage of Fairbanks is that you won't need a passport , yet there aren't many direct flights from the lower 48 states. Despite being an international destination, Iceland may be more accessible (particularly from the eastern U.S.), thanks to fairly regular flights to Reykjavik from numerous American cities.

Fairbanks does offer statistically better weather for aurora viewing: It has clear skies more often than Reykjavik, particularly in March when the Alaska city experiences them around 45% of the time (compared to about 25% for Reykjavik). But you'll have to be able to tolerate the cold. While temperatures in Reykjavik hover around freezing in midwinter, Fairbanks is a veritable deep freeze, with average highs around 5 degrees Fahrenheit down to lows colder than minus 5 in December.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Timothy Forster , as a Canadian who has traveled from coast to coast in that sprawling country, knows all about travel in the cold northern reaches of the world. Forster used his extensive traveling background along with research expertise to curate this article.

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