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Question: Where is Wasilla located?
Answer: Wasilla is Alaska’s sixth-largest city, located within the Matanuska-Susitna Valley in the state’s southern central region. -
Question: What is the origin of Wasilla's name?
Answer: Wasilla is named after indigenous Dena’ina Chief Wasilla. -
Question: What is Wasilla known for?
Answer: Wasilla is a major hub for dog sled racing and offers a variety of family-friendly attractions, including museums and state recreational areas. -
Question: What notable events take place near Wasilla?
Answer: Nearby Palmer hosts the annual Alaska State Fair and the Junior Iditarod dog sled race.
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1. The Iditarod Trail Headquarters
Explore mushing history and admire sled dog gear on this family adventure stop.
The Iditarod Trail Headquarters honor the famed dog sled race of the same name, which has been run every year in March since 1973 and takes elite teams on a 1,100-mile route from Anchorage to Nome. The museum boasts a variety of exhibits related to the race’s history, including the taxidermy of famed sled dog Togo, whose 1925 journey across Norton Sound to deliver diphtheria serum inspired the race’s route. A statue of famed raced Joe Redington, Sr. and his dog Feets stands outside the museum, and a video room allows visitors to analyze historic race footage. Dog-led cart rides are offered for visitors during the summer months for an additional fee.
2100 S Knik-Goose Bay Rd, Wasilla, AK 99654, Phone: 907-376-5155
2. Alaska Museum of Transportation and Industry
Discover vintage trains and planes while enjoying affordable exhibits on Alaska’s industrial past.
Alaska Museum of Transportation and Industry was originally opened in 1967 as the Air Progress Museum, which showcased transportation history exhibits within six refurbished retired railroad cars that were brought to the region during World War II. The rail cars earned the nickname “The Centennial Train” and operated as the state’s only museum on wheels until 1973. Since 1992, the museum has been headquartered at a 20-acre location in Wasilla and operated as a private nonprofit organization. Visitors may explore historic train cars, commercial fishing boats, automobiles, and a wide variety of farm and industrial machinery. Exhibits highlight topics such as the state’s gold mining and aviation history, and children’s displays of vintage trains and toys keep young visitors entertained.
3800 W Museum Dr, Wasilla, AK 99654, Phone: 907-376-1211
3. The Dorothy G. Page Museum
See Wasilla’s heritage and learn local stories during a quick historical visit.
The Dorothy G. Page Museum is named for the woman known as the “Mother of the Iditarod,” who organized the inaugural event in correlation with the centennial celebration of America’s purchase of the state of Alaska. Following her death, the Wasilla Museum was renamed in her honor. Today, it showcases exhibits tracing the city’s social and cultural history, from its early Native Athabaskan days through its industrial and mining heritage in the 19th and 20th century. Several galleries showcase exhibits highlighting the history of the Willow Creek Mining District, the Knik Trading Company, and the history of the Iditarod race. Temporary exhibits are showcased periodically, and field trips and tours are available for school groups and organizations.
391 Main St, Wasilla, AK 99654, Phone: 907-373-9071
4. Alaska Live Steamers
Ride miniature trains through forested trails on an exciting journey for all ages.
Alaska Live Steamers is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to the preservation of the state’s railroading history. The organization is entirely run by volunteer railroad enthusiasts who work together to create miniature scale replicas and restore historic train cars. It offers seasonal train rides aboard historic trains on Saturdays and Sundays between May and September. Scenic rides last approximately 25 minutes and showcase the region’s natural sights and historic places, including the Seward and Curry train stations. Rides are available for participants of all ages, and a car for visitors with disabilities is provided upon advance request.
1300 S Island St, Wasilla, AK 99654, Phone: 907-373-6412
5. Nancy Lakes Recreation Area
Paddle scenic lakes or hike peaceful trails during a summer outdoor retreat.
Nancy Lakes Recreation Area is an expansive park that is located 90 minutes north of Anchorage on the Parks Highway, offering opportunities for hiking, fishing, canoeing, and cross-country skiing throughout stretches of unspoiled forest. The region has been preserved in its natural state due to its lack of mining potential and remains one of the few flat landscapes in the state preserved for public recreation. Lake, wetland, and forest areas serve as a vital habitat for black bears, moose, beavers, and waterfowl. 13 rustic cabins are available throughout the recreation area along Nancy, James, Lynx, Bald, and Red Shirt Lakes, with each offering wood-burning stoves, outhouses, and fire rings.
Mile 1.3 Nancy Lake Pkwy. Willow, AK, Phone: 907-495-6210
6. Knik Museum and Musher's Hall of Fame, Wasilla, Alaska
Walk through Alaskan artifacts and celebrate mushing legends in this unusual local museum.
Knik Museum and Musher's Hall of Fame honors the region’s social culture and heritage, with a focus on its history of dog sledding. The museum was established in 1967 and is located within the Fulton and Hirshey Pool Hall building, the final remaining commercial building in Knik. Exhibits of painting and antiques are showcased throughout the museum’s two stories, outlining the history of the region as an indigenous trade center and an important route for dog sledding trails. Nearby, the Mushers’ Hall of Fame honors notable dog sled racers, and the Iditarod National Historic Trail provides access to thousands of miles of preserved trail route used by miners in the early 20th century.
Mile 13.9 Knik-Goosebay Road, Wasilla, AK 99654, Phone: 907-376-7755
7. Wasilla Farmer's Market
Browse fresh produce and handmade goods on a cheap and cheerful weekend outing.
Wasilla Farmer's Market is presented by the Wasilla Knik Historical Society and offers the best in regional produce and artisan goods. The market is held weekly on Wednesdays every summer between June and September and showcases goods from local farms, including some of the freshest fruits, vegetables, and herbs available in the region. Local gardeners sell flowers, while bakers produce fresh breads, jams, jellies, and other pantry goods. A variety of Alaskan-made arts and crafts are sold by local artisans, and music performances are presented by local musicians. The market is located near the Iditapark at the corner of Weber and Nelson Streets.
300 N Boundary, Wasilla, Alaska 99654, Phone: 907-376-2005
8. Alaskan Tour Guides Day Tours
Go beyond the usual with retirement-friendly guided trips through Alaska’s wild terrain.
Alaskan Tour Guides Day Tours is an Alaskan-owned touring company that connects visitors with destination tour excursions to some of the state’s most dramatic outdoor and historic sights, including the spectacular sights of Denali National Park and the beautiful waters of the Kenai and Sustina Rivers. Each small group excursion takes up to 13 travelers per coach to explore sights such as expansive glaciers and historical gold mines, with fishing, kayaking, hiking, flightseeing, and river rafting excursions available. For easier-paced adventures, scenic river floats are offered, along with sled dog tours, railroading excursions, and group trips to Alaskan Native cultural sites. Customizable tours are available for small groups and organizations, and combination tours connect land, air, and sea adventures with meals and lodging provided.
Phone: 800-795-1438
9. Alaska Adventure Unlimited, Wasilla, Alaska
Embark on thrilling treks and scenic drives during an exciting guided tour.
Alaska Adventure Unlimited offers guided tours exploring the Alaskan wilderness, including tours of the state’s national parks and glaciers. Tours range from single-day excursions to 14-day adventures, including eco-tour opportunities and flightseeing, jetboat, and rafting adventures. Resident Alaskan tour guides lead groups of all ability levels and ages through a variety of off-the-beaten-path locations, with family-only and adult-only excursions available on select dates. All tours include meals and deluxe accommodations, with mini-coach charters available. Tours may be reserved for private excursions for small groups, including corporate retreats and family vacations, with customizable itineraries available for private groups.
3750 N Caribou St, Wasilla, AK 99654, Phone: 907-373-3494
10. iFishAlaska Guide Service, Wasilla, Alaska
Catch trophy fish and savor the weekend calm with expert guides on Alaskan waters.
iFishAlaska Guide Service offers guided Alaskan salmon fishing excursions along the Big and Little Sustina and Deshka Rivers, which are among the most productive salmon fishery regions in the state. The family-owned business offers excursions in custom riverboats in areas of Alaska’s wild interior that are accessed via boat or airplane. Family-friendly day charters are the closest fishing charters near Anchorage and offer supervision from a licensed tour guide and rides in jet-powered boats, with fishing instruction, rods, bait, and reels provided. Opportunities are provided to fish for the region’s five primary salmon species, with a specific focus on king and silver salmon catches.
1741 Harvest Loop, Wasilla, AK 99654, Phone: 907-357-0131
| Best Time to Visit | Places to Stay | Tips for Visiting |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (March-May) – Warming temperatures and melting snow make for great early hiking and wildlife viewing. | Best Western Lake Lucille Inn – A scenic lakeside stay with beautiful views of the Chugach Mountains. | Visit Iditarod Headquarters – Learn about Alaska's famous sled dog race and see the history of mushing. |
| Summer (June-August) – Long daylight hours and warm temperatures make it ideal for outdoor adventures. | Grand View Inn & Suites – A comfortable stay with great access to Wasilla’s outdoor attractions. | Explore Hatcher Pass – Hike, sightsee, and enjoy the stunning mountain landscapes. |
| Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and colorful foliage create perfect conditions for scenic drives. | Alaska's Select Inn – A cozy and budget-friendly option for travelers. | Drive the Parks Highway – Enjoy breathtaking autumn scenery and stop at viewpoints along the way. |
| Winter (December-February) – A winter wonderland with snow-covered landscapes, great for outdoor sports. | Pioneer Ridge Bed & Breakfast – A charming and warm retreat perfect for winter stays. | Try Dog Sledding – Experience Alaska’s traditional sport and ride through the snow-covered trails. |
Map:
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Table of Contents:
- 1. The Iditarod Trail Headquarters
- 2. Alaska Museum of Transportation and Industry
- 3. The Dorothy G. Page Museum
- 4. Alaska Live Steamers
- 5. Nancy Lakes Recreation Area
- 6. Knik Museum and Musher's Hall of Fame, Wasilla, Alaska
- 7. Wasilla Farmer's Market
- 8. Alaskan Tour Guides Day Tours
- 9. Alaska Adventure Unlimited, Wasilla, Alaska
- 10. iFishAlaska Guide Service, Wasilla, Alaska