Overview

Alaska is America’s final frontier—a vast wilderness of towering mountains, icy fjords, and untamed wildlife. Known as the Last Frontier, it’s a paradise for adventurers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking solitude and grandeur. From the northern lights to calving glaciers and grizzly bears, Alaska offers unforgettable encounters with the natural world.

  • Capital: Juneau
  • Largest Cities: Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, Wasilla, Sitka
  • Population: ~730,000 (2024 est.)
  • Time Zone: Alaska Standard Time (UTC−9) / AKDT (Daylight Saving)
  • Climate: Varies — maritime along the coast, subarctic inland, and arctic in the far north

Top Destinations in Alaska

Anchorage

The state’s largest city offers museums, mountain views, and access to wildlife and day trips.

Denali National Park

Home to North America’s tallest peak, Denali, and abundant wildlife like bears, moose, and wolves.

Juneau

A coastal capital city with glaciers, whale watching, and no road access—only boat or plane.

Fairbanks

A great spot for northern lights in winter and launching point for Arctic adventures.

Kenai Peninsula

A scenic region with fishing villages, fjords, and outdoor experiences in places like Seward and Homer.

Must-See Attractions

  • Denali National Park – Hike, bus tour, or flightseeing around the 20,310-foot mountain
  • Mendenhall Glacier (Juneau) – Easily accessible glacier with visitor center and trails
  • Kenai Fjords National Park – Glaciers, orcas, puffins, and fjords by boat or kayak
  • Alaska Railroad – Scenic rail journeys through mountains, rivers, and valleys
  • Aurora Borealis (Fairbanks) – Stunning northern lights displays from late fall to early spring

Things to Do

  • Take a wildlife cruise to see whales, sea otters, and glaciers
  • Hike or camp in national parks and vast wilderness areas
  • Go dog sledding, snowmobiling, or glacier trekking
  • Visit Native Alaskan heritage centers to learn about indigenous cultures
  • Try fishing for salmon or halibut in world-famous waters

Getting There & Around

Major Airports

  • Ted Stevens Anchorage International (ANC), Fairbanks International (FAI), Juneau International (JNU)

Transport

  • Rental cars are useful in populated areas, but remote travel often requires boats or planes
  • Alaska Marine Highway (ferry system) connects coastal communities
  • Alaska Railroad offers scenic and comfortable travel between major hubs

Best Time to Visit

  • Spring (Apr–May): Melting snow, wildlife waking up, fewer crowds
  • Summer (Jun–Aug): Warmest weather, long daylight hours, peak for tours
  • Fall (Sep–Oct): Northern lights return, foliage, and quiet parks
  • Winter (Nov–Mar): Great for aurora viewing, winter sports, and dog mushing

Local Food & Culture

  • Cuisine: Wild, fresh, and hearty—Alaska’s food reflects its land and sea
  • Specialties: King crab, wild salmon, halibut, reindeer sausage, sourdough, blueberry jam
  • Drinks: Locally brewed beer, Alaskan spirits, and birch syrup liqueur
  • Events & Festivals:
  • Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race
  • Alaska State Fair (Palmer)
  • Sitka WhaleFest
  • Fur Rendezvous (Anchorage)
  • World Ice Art Championships (Fairbanks)

Souvenirs from Alaska

  • Ulu knives or native crafts
  • Wild berry jams or smoked salmon
  • Carved totem art or ivory jewelry (ethically sourced)
  • Alaska-themed apparel or mountain prints
  • Birch syrup or handmade soaps and candles

Fun Facts

  • Alaska is the largest U.S. state by area—more than twice the size of Texas
  • It has more coastline than all other U.S. states combined
  • There are more caribou than people in Alaska
  • 20 of the highest peaks in the U.S. are located here
  • Some towns have no road access and rely on planes, boats, or snow machines

Suggested Itineraries

3-Day Glacier & Wildlife Sampler

  • Day 1: Anchorage – local museums and nearby wildlife center
  • Day 2: Seward – Kenai Fjords cruise to see glaciers and marine life
  • Day 3: Exit Glacier hike or take the Alaska Railroad back

5-Day Denali & Beyond

  • Day 1: Anchorage – arrive and explore
  • Day 2: Alaska Railroad to Denali – scenic ride and evening views
  • Day 3: Denali National Park – guided tour or backcountry hike
  • Day 4: Fairbanks – soak in hot springs or search for northern lights
  • Day 5: Return south via scenic flight or rail

Cities

  • Anchorage

  • Juneau