Stunning landscape, Glaciers, and Fishing
In the Interior region you will find Denali National Park. The Southwest region is famous for bird and brown bear viewing. The Southcentral region is one of the most popular places to visit in Alaska. This region is known for its beauty, glacier viewing, shopping and fishing.
Most visitors arrive at the Southeast or Inside Passage region by cruise ship. This mountainous terrain is home to Glacier Bay National Park and was instrumental in the Alaskan Gold Rush. Alaska has so much to offer that it’s best to choose a few places to visit or experiences you want to try and then plan from there.
Things To Do
1. Northern Lights
The best places to view the Northern Lights (also known as the Aurora Borealis) are in Fairbanks and above the Arctic Circle. Although there are no guarantees for viewing the natural light display, it’s most possible in late fall, winter and early spring.
2. Wilderness, Wildlife & Glaciers
There’s a lengthy list of National Parks in Alaska, each with unique panoramic views. Get a close look at Alaska’s Big 5, which include grizzly bears, moose, caribou, dall sheep and gray wolves. Glaciers can be found throughout Alaska and can be experienced by hiking, railway passage or by boat to observe the iconic tidewater glacier as it crashes into the ocean.
3. Alaska Railroad
Discover the beauty of Alaska from the comfort and warmth of a train car with a ticket on the Alaskan Railroad. This historical railroad connects many of Alaska’s most popular destinations. Be transported to places only accessible by train. Tickets are available for a day, as an add on to a cruise or an entire vacation itinerary.
Northern Lights
Salmon Dish
Best Food & Drink
1. Salmon Anything
Salmon is the main entree served at most restaurants in Alaska. Freshly caught in the near vicinity, this Alaskan staple can be served baked, broiled, grilled or smoked.
2. King Crab Legs
Alaska is known all over the world for King Crab Legs. The fishing season is short and dangerous, making them a true delicacy. The tasty meat is served with warm butter and a fresh squeeze of lemon.
3. Sourdough
Sourdough came to the Klondike region of Alaska during the Gold Rush. This hearty bread was made popular due to its forgiving nature and the adverse conditions faced by the miners. It is now so popular that it can be found as in a breadbasket on your table, in pancakes, cinnamon rolls and sandwiches. Natives to Alaska will sometimes refer to old-timers as “sourdough”.
Ways To Visit
1. Cruise
There are many cruising ports offered throughout Alaska.
2. Car, Bus, Train, or Air Travel
Visitors can travel to Alaska by car, bus and railway, but the most common ways to arrive in Alaska are by boat and by plane. The major airports are found in Anchorage, Fairbanks and Juneau. The Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport is the most popular airport in the state.
3. Bus Tour or Float Plane
Most destinations in the Far North are only accessible by airplane. Most rental cars prohibit transportation to the Far North region, but you can take advantage of a van or bus tour leaving from Fairbanks. Float planes and bush planes are often available to reach areas not serviced by Alaskan Airlines.
