Best Places to Visit in Alaska
Alaska is a land of awe-inspiring beauty, with vast wilderness, towering mountains, glaciers, and wildlife that make it unlike anywhere else in the United States. From charming small towns to breathtaking national parks, Alaska is full of destinations that showcase the state’s rugged and unforgettable character.
I’ve marveled at glaciers calving into icy waters, spotted wildlife in their natural habitats, and explored towns that blend frontier spirit with modern charm. Whether you’re planning a cruise, a road trip, or an outdoor adventure, Alaska offers countless places worth visiting. Here are the ones I recommend, and I think you’ll enjoy them too.
1. Staring into the vastness of Denali National Park
The first time I visited, we landed in Anchorage and planned to rent a car to drive to Denali National Park. Our flight cost about $400 round trip from Austin, TX. When we landed, I adjusted my watch to Alaska Daylight Time.
Travel delays altered our plans, so we booked a round-trip sightseeing flight from Anchorage instead.
Denali scenery was unbelievable. We were in the air, but I could just imagine the stillness below. No cars, no voices.
One of my favorite things to do was take a wildlife tour, and honestly, it was the absolute best way to spot moose, grizzlies, wolves, and caribou roaming freely. There was something so joyful and exciting about seeing animals in their natural habitat—it made the whole trip feel like a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
I also loved hiking some of the park’s underrated trails. They gave me a unique chance to explore hidden valleys and peaceful tundra landscapes that felt like Alaska’s best-kept secrets. Every trail revealed a different gem, whether it was a sparkling glacial river or a hillside covered in vibrant wildflowers.
What made Denali extra special for me was how affordable it could be if you planned it right. Camping under the midnight sun, with stars faintly glimmering above and the sound of the wind through the pines, was a brilliant idea that turned into my favorite memory of the whole trip.
For anyone searching for the coolest mix of romance, adventure, and family-friendly fun, Denali National Park is hands down one of the best places to visit in Alaska.
Great tours you can take:
- Denali In A Day Sightseeing Tour – Price: From $200 per person.
- Denali: 5-Hour Guided Wilderness Hiking Tour – Price: From $180 per person.
- Denali National Park: Helicopter and Hike Adventure – Price: From $529 per person.
2. Finding charm in the rain in Ketchikan
I landed at Ketchikan Airport on Gravina Island in the summer. From there, I took the 10-minute airport ferry to Ketchikan. It cost $6 for adults ($3 for kids).
I kept hearing about Ketchikan Creek from friends, so I booked a stay at the Inn at Creek Street ($197/night). It really was a fascinating place. You can watch salmon swim upstream beneath the old red storefronts of Creek Street. I reminded myself to look up and spot the eagles.
Ketchikan, tucked along Alaska’s Inside Passage near the southern tip of the state, instantly became one of my favorite stops. Known as the “Salmon Capital of the World,” it’s one of those underrated gems that combines history, culture, and pure natural beauty in the coolest way possible.
I thought Creek Street was absolutely the best place to start exploring. Wandering along the vibrant boardwalk perched over the water felt like stepping back in time, and I loved how unusual and unique the old wooden buildings looked against the lush green hills.
One of my most exciting experiences here was hopping on a boat tour to Misty Fjords National Monument. The towering cliffs, hidden waterfalls, and magical mist floating over the forests made it feel like I was in a dream. Honestly, it was the absolute best excursion I could have imagined.
I also had the chance to see the vibrant Native totem poles scattered throughout the town, and I found it fascinating how each one told its own interesting story. Saxman Totem Park was my favorite stop, and it felt like discovering a piece of Alaska’s cultural heartbeat.
For a joyful and affordable adventure, I tried some local seafood—fresh salmon and halibut straight from the waters. It was such a cool experience to enjoy flavors that tasted so fresh and authentic.
Ketchikan may be small, but it’s packed with exciting things to do, whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or a family trip. For me, it’s one of Alaska’s absolute best towns to visit, filled with hidden treasures and unforgettable magic.
3. Walking on ancient ice at Mendenhall Glacier
Mendenhall Glacier, located just about 12 miles from downtown Juneau, is hands down one of the absolute best natural wonders in Alaska. The moment I first saw its massive ice stretching down into the valley, I felt like I had stepped into an otherworldly dream. It’s easily one of the coolest places I’ve ever visited.
I took the public bus from Juneau to get here. The bus ride took about an hour.
From the bus stop on Dredge Lake Road, I walked just over a mile to the visitor center.
I thought the visitor center was a brilliant idea, giving me a chance to learn about the glacier’s history and the fascinating ways it has shaped the landscape. Standing on the overlook and seeing that spectacular wall of blue ice up close was my favorite moment—it honestly felt magical.
It was a perfect active day trip from Juneau. I took a taxi back to Juneau.
What I recommend A warming bowl of crab bisque at Deckhand Dave’s in downtown Juneau. I followed it with a halibut taco. Fresh, no-frills, and full of flavor.
Before heading to Alaskan Hotel for the night, I picked up some gifts at the Red Dog Saloon.
4. Drifting into silence in Glacier Bay National Park
Next day, I took a 30 minute Alaska Airlines flight from Juneau to Gustavus. I had booked a stay at Glacier Bay Lodge, my base for exploring Glacier Bay National Park.
Since the lodge is about 10 miles from the Gustavus Airport, they picked me up in a shuttle. This is a free service for lodge gusts.
The lodge is located in Bartlett Cove, which is the headquarters for Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve.
I hopped aboard the tour boat that departs from Glacier Bay Lodge. We turned a corner in the bay, and suddenly the glacier was there. It was so massive! I stood on the deck of the boat in awe.
I watched sea otters float in the icy water.
What stood out most was how untouched and unique Glacier Bay is. It felt like a hidden world where every turn revealed a new surprise—towering glaciers, hidden coves, and breathtaking views. For me, it’s the ultimate dream destination for anyone seeking the coolest mix of romance, adventure, and family-friendly magic in Alaska.
I spent the night at Glacier Bay Lodge and then flew back to Juneau.
5. Hoonah, Alaska: Where the Forest Meets the Sea
Hoonah, tucked on Chichagof Island just west of Juneau, struck me as one of Alaska’s most underrated gems. It’s the largest Tlingit village in the state, and I loved how it blended rich Native culture with breathtaking wilderness. The vibe was so welcoming that it instantly became one of my favorite small towns in Alaska.
One of the absolute best experiences I had in Hoonah was visiting Icy Strait Point. This place is a dream for anyone looking for adventure—it’s got a vibrant boardwalk, shops, local food, and the coolest excursions. I thought riding the world’s largest ZipRider was an exciting and unusual thrill that gave me unbeatable views of the bay.
I also loved learning about Tlingit traditions. Watching cultural performances filled with storytelling, dance, and music felt like stepping into something truly unique and meaningful. It was one of those joyful experiences that gave me a deeper connection to the place.
Seeing wildlife around Hoonah was another highlight for me. Whale watching here was spectacular—humpbacks breached so close to the boat that I could actually hear the splash. Spotting brown bears along the shore and eagles soaring above added to the magic.
One of my favorite moments was just strolling the small harbor and enjoying fresh, affordable seafood straight from local waters. It felt like such a simple but exceptional joy. For me, Hoonah is the coolest blend of culture, nature, and adventure—a hidden Alaskan treasure perfect for a family getaway or a romantic escape.
6. Meeting mountain-town magic in Talkeetna
Talkeetna, located about 115 miles north of Anchorage, completely won me over with its quirky charm and spectacular views of Denali. This little town is often called one of Alaska’s coolest hidden gems, and I quickly realized why—it felt both vibrant and laid-back, the perfect weekend getaway spot.
One of my favorite experiences was wandering the historic downtown. The colorful shops, unique galleries, and small cafés gave it such a joyful and welcoming vibe. I loved how unusual and interesting everything felt, from the handcrafted art to the local breweries pouring fresh pints.
What really made Talkeetna exceptional for me was its connection to adventure. It’s the absolute best base camp for Denali flightseeing tours. Taking a small plane over the mountain range and landing on a glacier was a dream come true—hands down one of the most magical things I’ve ever done.
I also loved strolling along the rivers where the Susitna, Chulitna, and Talkeetna meet. That view of Denali on a clear day was honestly unforgettable, and I still think of it as one of my favorite Alaskan sights. It’s pure magic when the mountain shows itself.
For an affordable and exciting treat, I tried the local reindeer sausage and fresh-baked sweets from a quirky roadside stand—such a cool and unexpected highlight. Whether you’re planning a romantic trip or a family adventure, Talkeetna is one of Alaska’s most unique and vibrant towns, filled with unforgettable experiences.
7. Walking through gold rush history in Skagway
Skagway, tucked at the northern tip of Alaska’s Inside Passage near the Canadian border, instantly felt like stepping into a living museum. This little town, famous for the Klondike Gold Rush, is one of the most interesting and underrated gems I’ve visited in Alaska, and it quickly became one of my absolute favorites.
Walking down Broadway Street, I loved the vibrant false-front buildings that looked straight out of the 1890s. It gave the town such a cool, unusual charm, and I couldn’t help but feel the excitement of its historic past everywhere I turned. The whole place felt alive with stories.
One of the best experiences I had was riding the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad. The journey through towering mountains, glaciers, and waterfalls was spectacular. Watching the landscape unfold from the vintage train windows felt like pure magic—easily one of the most memorable adventures of my trip.
I also loved exploring the hiking trails just outside of town. Lower Dewey Lake Trail was my favorite because it offered a peaceful escape and vibrant scenery that felt like a hidden gem compared to the busier spots. The quiet beauty made it the perfect affordable adventure.
For something truly joyful, I sampled local brews and fresh seafood at one of the cozy pubs. The atmosphere was welcoming and made me feel like part of the community. Skagway may be small, but it’s packed with unique, exciting experiences that make it one of the absolute best towns in Alaska for a romantic getaway or a family trip filled with history and adventure.
8. Haines Serenity & Fjordside Spirit
Haines, located along the Lynn Canal about 80 miles north of Juneau, felt like one of the most spectacular and underrated towns I’ve ever discovered in Alaska. It has this unusual mix of rugged wilderness and small-town charm that instantly made it one of my favorites. I thought it was the absolute best balance of adventure and relaxation.
One of my favorite experiences in Haines was visiting the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. Seeing hundreds of eagles soaring over the river during salmon season was pure magic—it was vibrant, exciting, and honestly one of the coolest wildlife encounters I’ve ever had. I still think about those moments with joy.
I also loved how affordable and unique the hiking opportunities were. Trails like Mount Ripinsky gave me exceptional views of the Lynn Canal and snowcapped mountains, while Battery Point Trail offered a dreamy coastal walk that felt hidden and special. Each trail was its own gem, and they all left me feeling connected to Alaska’s wild beauty.
The cultural side of Haines fascinated me too. Exploring the Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Foundation and the Hammer Museum (yes, a whole museum dedicated to hammers!) was such an interesting and unusual way to spend the afternoon. It gave the town a quirky, memorable vibe I didn’t expect.
One of the best parts was simply strolling through the harbor, watching fishing boats come and go, and enjoying fresh seafood at local spots. Whether you’re here for a romantic getaway or an exciting family trip, Haines is a joyful and exceptional Alaskan gem that feels like a dream come true.
9. Finding end-of-the-road beauty in Homer
Homer, located on the Kenai Peninsula about 220 miles south of Anchorage, immediately struck me as one of Alaska’s most vibrant and unique towns. Known as the “Halibut Fishing Capital of the World,” it felt like the absolute best mix of adventure, art, and small-town charm, and it quickly became one of my favorite Alaskan getaways.
The Homer Spit was hands down the coolest highlight for me. Stretching nearly five miles into Kachemak Bay, it’s lined with quirky shops, fresh seafood shacks, and art galleries. Walking along the Spit with the mountains and glaciers across the water felt magical, and I loved how unusual and joyful the atmosphere was.
I thought the wildlife experiences here were spectacular. Taking a boat across the bay to spot puffins, sea otters, and whales made the day unforgettable. It was one of those dreamlike adventures that reminded me why Alaska is so exceptional. Seeing bears on a guided tour to Katmai or Lake Clark was also an exciting bucket-list moment.
Homer’s creative side really stood out to me. From vibrant murals to local craft shops, the town has an artistic energy that felt underrated and inspiring. Visiting the Pratt Museum gave me a cool and interesting glimpse into the area’s history and culture.
One of my favorite moments was enjoying affordable, fresh-caught halibut fish and chips while watching the sunset over the bay. Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, an exciting family trip, or a solo adventure, Homer is truly one of the best gems in Alaska—a place where every moment feels magical and memorable.
10. Watching the northern lights dance in Fairbanks
Fairbanks, located in Alaska’s Interior about 360 miles north of Anchorage, completely won me over with its unusual mix of culture, history, and wild adventure. It felt like one of the absolute best places to experience both the magic of Alaska’s seasons and the welcoming spirit of a vibrant small city.
One of my favorite experiences in Fairbanks was chasing the northern lights. Seeing the aurora dance across the dark winter sky was pure dreamlike magic—hands down one of the coolest things I’ve ever witnessed. It’s worth the trip alone just for that spectacular show.
In summer, I loved how joyful and exciting the midnight sun felt. The endless daylight gave me extra time to explore hidden gems like the Chena River, Pioneer Park, and the beautiful Georgeson Botanical Garden. It made every day feel vibrant and unforgettable.
I thought visiting the University of Alaska Museum of the North was fascinating. Its exhibits on Native culture, wildlife, and Alaskan history gave me a deeper appreciation for the region. It was one of those underrated experiences that felt both interesting and inspiring.
A brilliant idea while here is to soak in Chena Hot Springs. Relaxing in those steaming outdoor pools, surrounded by snowy peaks, was one of my favorite memories—it felt both romantic and absolutely magical. I also loved the quirky Ice Museum nearby with its sparkling ice sculptures and frosty cocktails.
Fairbanks is cool, affordable, and exceptional for both a family trip or a romantic getaway. For me, it’s one of Alaska’s best gems—where every season offers something truly unique and unforgettable.
I enjoyed one evening at Chena Hot Springs Resort. The hot spring pool nearby filled the air with a steam-tinged scent of mineral-rich warmth. Dinner was hearty reindeer stew served in the lodge dining room, rich, gamey, and steaming in the cold air. It tasted like wild Alaska grounded me in that moment.
I also found that the city can feel rough around the edges. Poverty and homelessness are visible. Mosquitoes in summer are relentless.
11. Anchorage, Where We Landed
Anchorage, located along the Cook Inlet in Southcentral Alaska, felt like the perfect blend of city energy and wild adventure. It’s the state’s largest city, yet it still has that underrated charm of being surrounded by mountains, glaciers, and vibrant wildlife. For me, it was one of the absolute best bases for exploring everything Alaska has to offer.
One of my favorite experiences was visiting the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. Biking along this scenic path with views of the inlet and even spotting moose along the way was both exciting and magical. It’s easily one of the coolest and most family-friendly activities in Anchorage.
I loved how the city itself had a vibrant cultural side. The Anchorage Museum was an exceptional stop for me—it offered fascinating exhibits on Native Alaskan art and history. I thought it was an underrated gem that gave me a deeper appreciation of the region’s heritage.
For an unusual but joyful adventure, I took a day trip to nearby Chugach State Park. Just minutes from downtown, I found myself surrounded by snowcapped peaks, waterfalls, and hidden trails. Hiking Flattop Mountain gave me spectacular views of the city below and the endless Alaskan wilderness beyond.
Another highlight was exploring the local food scene. Fresh seafood, reindeer sausages, and quirky food trucks made every meal feel like a vibrant discovery. My favorite was enjoying affordable halibut tacos while watching the sunset over the inlet—pure magic.
Anchorage is both cool and convenient, perfect for a romantic weekend or a family getaway. For me, it’s one of Alaska’s best destinations, offering a unique mix of city comforts and unforgettable outdoor adventures.
Final Thoughts on Exploring Alaska:
After exploring so many incredible places across Alaska, I can honestly say it’s one of the absolute best destinations for anyone craving adventure, culture, and pure natural magic. I loved how each spot had its own personality—whether it was the romance of Denali’s peaks, the joyful wildlife encounters in Glacier Bay, or the coolest small-town vibes along the coast. The variety was exceptional, and it made every stop feel like discovering a brand-new treasure.
What stood out to me most was the balance Alaska offers. You can have affordable family-friendly getaways, thrilling adventures like ziplining or glacier trekking, and peaceful moments that feel almost spiritual while gazing at the northern lights or listening to eagles call across the sky. My favorite part was how every experience—big or small—left me with memories I’ll never forget. For me, Alaska isn’t just a place to visit, it’s a spectacular journey that feels vibrant, inspiring, and absolutely worth every moment.
If you’re searching for the coolest mix of natural wonders, cultural gems, and once-in-a-lifetime adventures, Alaska is hands down the best destination to put on your list. Every trip here feels like stepping into a dream, and I can’t wait to go back and uncover even more of its hidden magic.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
