12 Essential Things to See and Do in Alaska
Alaska is unlike anywhere else in the United States: a place where raw nature, vast wilderness, and rich native culture meet. Whether you’re chasing glaciers, spotting grizzlies, or soaking in endless summer sunsets, this state is packed with once-in-a-lifetime experiences. It’s wild, rugged, and unforgettable. These 12 things will give you a real taste of Alaska’s heart and soul.
Denali National Park
At over six million acres, Denali is a vast, untamed wilderness home to North America’s tallest peak. Most of the park is roadless, so the best way to explore is on a guided bus tour or by hiking off the beaten path. Wildlife sightings are common, with moose, wolves, and grizzlies often appearing on the horizon. Denali is a place where you feel small, in the best way possible.
Glacier Bay
Few places show the power and beauty of nature like Glacier Bay. Towering ice walls crash into the water while humpback whales glide beneath the surface. You can explore by cruise ship, kayak, or small boat tour, getting up close to tidewater glaciers and fjords. It’s remote, dramatic, and deeply peaceful. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must for first-time visitors.
Northern Lights Viewing
From September to April, Alaska becomes one of the best places in the world to witness the aurora borealis. Head north to Fairbanks or stay in a glass-roofed igloo lodge for a front-row view of this natural wonder. The lights dance in green and purple streaks across the sky; silent, surreal, and magical. It’s an experience that stays with you long after you leave.
Kenai Fjords National Park
This coastal park offers a mix of glaciers, marine wildlife, and deep blue fjords. Take a boat tour from Seward to see puffins, sea otters, and maybe even a breaching orca. Hike to Exit Glacier or go ice climbing if you’re feeling adventurous. It’s an ideal blend of ocean and ice, with wildlife around every corner. Few parks offer such dramatic views with easy access.
Ride the Alaska Railroad
The Alaska Railroad offers one of the most scenic train journeys in North America. With glass-domed cars and slow-moving charm, it runs from Anchorage to Fairbanks, passing glaciers, forests, and wildlife along the way. It’s a stress-free way to soak in the landscape, especially for first-time visitors. You can stop in places like Talkeetna or Denali for extra adventure.
Mendenhall Glacier
Just outside Juneau, this massive glacier is one of the most accessible in the state. Walk the trails for panoramic views or kayak across the glacial lake for a closer look. Inside the visitor center, learn about the glacier’s history and the effects of climate change. It’s an easy half-day trip with stunning rewards and a sobering look at our warming planet.
Bear Viewing in Katmai
For a truly unforgettable wildlife experience, head to Katmai National Park. In summer, brown bears gather at Brooks Falls to catch salmon mid-air. It’s raw nature at its finest. Wooden viewing platforms let you observe from a safe distance without disrupting the animals. The sight of a bear balancing on a rock, waiting for dinner, is something you won’t soon forget.
Dog Sledding
Dog mushing is Alaska’s state sport, and you don’t need to visit in winter to try it. Summer tours offer sled rides on snow-covered glaciers via helicopter. You’ll meet the dogs, ride through stunning terrain, and hear stories from experienced mushers. For history buffs, visit during the Iditarod season and learn about the iconic race. It’s fast, fun, and full of character.
The Inside Passage
This famed sea route winds through hundreds of islands and coastal towns, best explored by cruise. Along the way, you’ll visit ports like Ketchikan, Juneau, and Sitka—each with its own rich heritage and landscapes. Expect daily sightings of whales, eagles, and waterfalls. It’s a gentle and scenic way to experience Alaska’s coastal beauty from the water.
Visit Native Heritage Centers
To really understand Alaska, spend time learning about its Indigenous cultures. Centers like the Alaska Native Heritage Center in Anchorage offer dance performances, traditional art, and reconstructed dwellings. These experiences add depth to any trip and highlight the state’s living traditions. You’ll walk away with a deeper respect for the people who have lived here for millennia.
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park
Larger than Yellowstone, Yosemite, and Switzerland combined, this park is a jaw-dropping slice of remote wilderness. Explore glaciers, abandoned mines, and rugged peaks on foot or by bush plane. Few crowds make it feel like your own private Alaska. Adventure-seekers will find hiking, rafting, and solitude in spades. It’s a hidden giant that deserves more attention.
Soak in Chena Hot Springs
After a long day of hiking or aurora hunting, nothing beats soaking in these natural mineral springs near Fairbanks. The outdoor pools stay warm year-round, even when surrounded by snow. The resort also features an ice museum and eco-friendly facilities. It’s a perfect mix of comfort and wilderness, offering rest and rejuvenation under Alaska’s big sky.
