Alaska is a stunning place of contrast: wild and raw and massive, but with small, tight-knit communities speckled throughout. These towns are hearty by nature, used to their isolation but ever-inviting all the same. You’re a long way from life as you know it, but never far from life as it is. Essentially, Alaska is everything you would want in an authentic wilderness getaway.
Alaska Vacation Ideas from Alaska Travel Experts
Alaska is big. Really big. Not only is it the largest state, it is over twice the size of the second-largest state, Texas. In fact, it’s bigger than the three following largest states (Texas, California, and Montana) combined. When considering how to best travel in such a large and diverse place, it is easy to feel lost. So if you’re looking for Alaska vacation ideas — how to best see the grand wilderness according to travel experts — let this be your ultimate guide.
Backcountry flightseeing in Alaska | Credit: Ultima Thule Lodge
Planning Your Trip
At Alaska Rail Vacations, we have been planning bespoke wilderness adventures for over 25 years. So, as we continue helping travelers adventure through the beautiful North, we wanted to create the perfect starting point for you as you begin to plan your trip.
Before you book your Alaska vacation, you might want to consider a few things. We wanted to give them to you in one concise package so that, by the end, you are ready to plan your trip. To start, we recommend:
- Learning a little about Alaska, including where to go, how long to stay, and how to get around
- Exploring tried-and-tested itineraries as inspiration (and a sense of what you can hope to achieve in the duration of your stay)
- Getting expert advice and working one-on-one with an Alaska travel expert to customize your trip to your liking
Regions in Alaska
Alaska isn't a singular experience — each of the five regions has unique callings and opportunities for exploration.
Ketchikan in the Inside Passage | Credit: Travel Alaska
Inside Passage Region
Also known as Southeast or the ‘Panhandle,’ the Inside Passage is Alaska’s southernmost region, running alongside northern British Columbia in Canada. It is comprised of a network of waterways that make it a popular area for cruises from Seattle, Los Angeles, and Vancouver, Canada.
Cruises in this region are stunning, passing through channels of water once carved by ancient glaciers. Now as they pass through, venturing up the coast and along inlets, ships are surrounded by pine-laden islands, their mountains rising out of the ocean as they hop between charming coastal towns.
Stops in Ketchikan, Skagway, or Juneau welcome visitors into Alaska’s quirky charm. Each has brightly colored clapboard buildings typical of historic gold-rush towns.
But Alaska is predominantly defined by its wilds. In the Inside Passage, these are its glaciers. Massive and ever-present, they have left their mark — from the waterways and inlets they created to Glacier Bay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with 16 individual glaciers still connecting mountains and sea.
The Inside Passage is best visited by travelers who enjoy the structure of a multi-day cruise, taking them between quaint towns and stunning glaciers.
Alaska Railroad following the Turnigan Arm | Credit: Alaska Railroad
Southcentral Region
Southcentral Alaska balances wilderness and accessibility. There is Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve, the largest National Park in the United States at over 13 million acres. But, at the same time, Southcentral Alaska is home to the state’s largest city, Anchorage, the majority of the Alaska Railroad, and a web of highways offering scenic views. The Southcentral region is easy to see and difficult to leave.
Traveling south from Anchorage, a wilderness road takes you to the Kenai Peninsula. The road, wild as it is, offers easy access to the peninsula’s rural towns. Whether following the Turnagain Arm’s long waterway separating the peninsula from the mainland or diving into a mountain valley — the road lined with spruce, birch, and aspen, forest broken occasionally by lakes, snow-capped peaks looming behind them —your journey through this region is stunning from beginning to end.
In Kenai Peninsula, you are welcomed to scenic harbor towns tucked among the Kenai Fjords National Park, including Homer, Seward (where you can easily hike to Exit Glacier), and Whittier. From the towns, take boat tours to explore Prince William Sound and the wildlife hiding within.
Heading north gives way to a more rustic Alaska. Settlements like Talkeetna are a gateway to Denali National Park and the expansive Interior beyond.
Southcentral Alaska is perfect for visitors looking to take road and train trips through stunning scenery without straying far from civilization. Still rural and wild, but connected nonetheless.
Unspoiled wilderness in Denali National Park | Credit: Denali Jeep Excursions
Interior
Alaska’s Interior is defined by its mountains. Here, you will find Denali — North America’s tallest peak — in Denali National Park. However, the Interior also draws visitors in with its abundance of glaciers, alpine tundra, boreal forests, wetlands, and wildlife meandering between them all.
By either highway or the northernmost part of the Alaska Railroad, you can reach Fairbanks, locally known as the 'Golden Heart of Alaska.' You can feel the difference between it and Anchorage as you experience the hearty lifestyle of a city in the far North.
In summer, a trip to the Interior means long days to spot the Big Five — you are now far enough north to experience the midnight sun — illuminating valleys of wildflowers and nights bringing only pink-tinged skies.
In winter, the sky darkens, and the Northern Lights shine across the nights. Fairbanks is situated directly under the ‘Aurora Oval,’ where the lights are seen most frequently, and the surrounding expanse of nature offers light-free views of the green-washed sky.
The Interior is the perfect place to experience a more remote Alaska, whether in the summer sun or by winter’s illuminations.
Northern Lights in the Arctic | Credit: Northern Alaska Tour Company
Arctic Region
The Arctic feels impalpable to many travelers and holds a special kind of allure as a result. It might be far off the beaten track, but despite being remote, it is accessible on day trips from Fairbanks. And, as a reward, crossing the Arctic Circle by land or flightseeing tour offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience for those venturing this far north.
With a little longer in the region, this is the perfect place for a winter aurora viewing tour to see the Northern Lights dance across the sky. The Arctic draws in adventurers looking to cross off bucket list experiences. And, with a little time and effort, that is precisely what they can do.
Kodiak Island | Credit: Dan Palen
Southwest
This is wilderness like no other.
The Southwest region is the least connected region in Alaska — it isn’t on the road system, so access to most communities is by air taxi or, in the case of its coastal communities, by the Alaska Marine Highway ferry.
Few visitors venture into this region because of its remoteness, but for those who do, a world away from worlds awaits. Volcanic landscapes in Katmai National Park lead to a long sweep of broken islands, jutting into the North Pacific towards Russia.
The Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge, on the northernmost island, Kodiak, is the most visited, playing host to a thriving population of Kodiak Brown Bears. This distinct subspecies have been isolated on the distant archipelago for around 12,000 years and are the biggest on Earth.
Though small cities are accessible by scheduled air service or ferry, they are home to wilds beyond the town. Travelers visiting the Southwest should not expect luxury comfort but, instead, an authentic wilderness experience and nature beyond their wildest imaginings.
What to Do in Alaska's Top Destinations
Between touring nature’s finest and venturing into the wilds in search of wildlife, Alaska’s towns and cities have their own unique appeal. This is what you can expect in Alaska’s top destinations.
River in Anchorage on a summer day | Credit: Frank Flavin
Anchorage
Anchorage is Alaska’s largest and most populous city, and offers one of few truly urban places in the state. Despite this, it provides easy access to its beautiful surrounding nature.
In downtown Anchorage, wander West 4th Ave, dipping between local cafes — Snow City Cafe for a delicious breakfast in a quirky spot — and stores. For handmade gifts, be sure to stop by the Alaska Art Alliance where local Native artists carve beautiful works of art right in the store — and are always happy to show you their process.
In the evening, soak up Alaskan brew culture, either bar-hopping or settling down in 49th State Brewhouse for its duration, overlooking the bay from the rooftop patio in the summer. If you prefer wine, Crush Wine Bistro & Cellar offers a large selection and a delicious array of small plates and entrees in a more elevated environment (though one still complete with Alaskan warmth and charm).
Outside the city, Flattop Mountain offers panoramic views of the city. Day tours, whether in search of wildlife by road or mountain views by helicopter, give you a sense of Anchorage’s position as an urban island in the surrounding wilderness.
Mt Denali towering over Denali National Park | Credit: Joris Beugels
Denali National Park
Denali National Park is Alaskan wilds at their best.
Though settlements are located at the Park entrances, it consists primarily of miles upon miles of untouched tundra and the ever-looming Mount Denali — the tallest peak in North America.
Wildlife meanders the park’s floor, giving visitors the chance to see Alaska’s ‘Big Five’ (bears, moose, caribou, wolves, and dall sheep) from the Denali Park Road. Deeper in the park, remote wilderness lodges hide in the backcountry, positioned to give guests access to the far reaches of the park, with quiet trails and uninterrupted natural landscapes.
The Denali Park Road leading into the park's heart is not open to private vehicles due to ongoing road improvements expected to last until 2026. Guests can travel as far as mile 43 by car, but venturing deeper into the park requires a little more.
Flightseeing tours are perfect to bypass this, letting visitors see deep into the park. But to experience it best, a helicopter tour can whisk you away, over the rugged peaks of the Alaska Range, to a hidden glacier tucked in between. But travelers are equally welcome to hike the unspoiled wilderness, taking in true quiet away from traffic.
Winter at Chena Hotsprings near Fairbanks | Credit: Travel Alaska / Chris McLennan
Fairbanks
Fairbanks has earned itself the title of the ‘Golden Heart of Alaska’ due to its gold-rush origins. Nowadays, it acts as a northern hub for the hearty folk living in the Interior and guests to the region exploring the Alaskan wonders it holds.
Your experience of Fairbanks differs immensely depending on when you visit, with the Northern Lights or midnight sun coloring the city in washes of green or pink, depending on the season.
In summer, catch a concert featuring a rotating selection of local artists at Reindeer Ranch and watch alongside the resident reindeer. Or, take a classic river cruise on a sternwheeler boat to cruise the waters — seeing landside attractions all the while — in historic gold rush style.
Chena Hot Springs welcomes guests year-round for a warm respite from the Alaskan weather. In winter, it is the perfect spot to glimpse the elusive Northern Lights as the warm mineral water helps you unwind.
But in Fairbanks, the main draw is the Arctic, with day tours whisking visitors away on an expedition to the North.
Goldbelt Tram above Juneau
Juneau
Juneau is Alaska's state capital and a popular stop along Alaska cruises in the Inside Passage. The city blends old and new as its history mingles with the needs of Alaskan folk who make the wild state their home.
As a major port town, Juneau has all the classics — from souvenir shops to Alaskan fur galleries to gelato. It is the perfect place to wander the streets and take in the atmosphere. And from the dock, the Goldbelt Tram runs up the side of Mount Roberts, letting riders travel from sea to sky and look down over the mountain-lined inlet, Juneau tucked neatly in the side.
With a spare day, visit the Alaska State Museum. It looks striking from the outside as its newly renovated glass exterior reflects the lush green mountainside. And, as you enter, it continues to blend Alaska’s present with its history and location as you learn Alaskan Native history from time immemorial to Alaska’s Russian occupancy to its present day, with exhibitions featuring local art frequenting the museum.
Ketchikan’s charming boardwalk | Credit: Travel Alaska
Ketchikan
Just past the Alaska-Canada border is Ketchikan. The town is a quirky and colorful introduction to Alaska and perfectly embodies the state's eclectic and hearty lifestyle. Wooden houses — painted bright reds, yellows, and blues — are propped above the water on wooden stilts.
Head to Pioneer Cafe — a classic ‘Mom and Pop’ diner just off Main St, dripping in 1950s nostalgia and perfect for a hearty breakfast. Or, head to the Alaska Fish House to eat with views over the dock. While most try the Dungeness crab, it’s the salmon chowder you want (this is the ‘Salmon Capital of the World’ after all). This is by no means a hidden gem, and it fills up fast when cruise ships are docked, but is worth the wait regardless.
Leaving town, salmon fishing tours are a popular way of engaging with local culture and livelihood.
La Baline Cafe | Credit: Tutka Bay Lodge
Homer
Homer is situated on the edge of the Kenai Peninsula and is comprised of the main town and a long spit that juts out into the Kachmemak Bay. It lives as an authentic small Alaskan town, and is best experienced as such. A visit to the farmers market is a great welcome to the community and the perfect spot to source handmade gifts, art and pottery, and local produce, jarred goods, and honey.
Along the Homer Spit, after keeping your eyes peeled for bald eagles and sea wildlife, the Salty Dawg Saloon is a must-stop for a drink (make sure you sign and tack a dollar bill to the wall, as is local tradition). You can also stop at a number of other local businesses for gifts, refreshments, or a bite to eat — our favorite is La Baleine Café for a delicious breakfast or lunch made from local ingredients.
Like other coastal Alaskan towns, Homer is a hub for exploring the waters beyond. Frequent boat tours allow visitors to see whales, sea otters, and puffins in the surrounding bay and inlet.
Aerial view of Seward, between Resurrection Bay and the mountains | Credit: Travel Alaska
Seward
Mountains meet Resurrection Bay at Seward, carefully tucked right between the two.
From Seward, boat tours take visitors deeper into Kenai Fjords National Park to cruise along deep glacier-cut channels and flightseeing tours let visitors get up-close-and-personal with glaciers to land and walk on their surface. Back in town, grab coffee at Resurrect Coffee House — decorated with eclectic local art and situated in a former church — before heading to the Alaska SeaLife Center for a look into the abundant coastal wildlife Alaska has to offer. Dinner can be found at one of the many bars and restaurants either in the small downtown area or lining the dock in the north of town.
Left: Whittier’s single residential building | Credit: Joseph Corl
Right: A boat tour of Prince William Sound | Credit: State of Alaska / Chris McLennan
Whittier
Through a narrow valley and a 2.6-mile long single-direction tunnel is Whittier, gloriously isolated on the inner edge of Prince William Sound. And, it is perhaps the most unique town in Alaska.
While a small handful of cafes, gift shops, and lodgings are situated along the inlet’s front, the town’s residents live behind in a single yellow, pink, and blue building. Inside is the town’s school, church, general store, and post office, so town folk do not need to brave the winter climates for their daily necessities.
While seemingly isolated, this one-building town is a gate to the waterways beyond. Glacier-bound day cruises regularly depart Whittier’s docks, and the Alaska Railroad passes through, transporting guests along the bay to Spencer Glacier.
Nagley’s Store in Talkeetna | Credit: Travel Alaska
Talkeetna
Talkeetna is what you think of when you think 'small Alaskan town.' It is artistic, outdoorsy, and its two-block ‘Main Street’ is full of character. Quaint log cabins and clapboard wooden houses line the road and are dripping with rustic charm.
Whether stocking up on road trip snacks from Nagly’s General Store, getting a warm drink from Conscious Coffee — and avoiding the stacks of books lining the walls and floor as you do —on your way to the neighboring entrance to Denali National Park, you will absolutely not regret your time in the endlessly charming Talkeetna.
How to Get Around Alaska: Road, Train, and Cruises
There are three main ways visitors see Alaska, each with their own unique allure.
An Alaska road trip gives visitors the most freedom, letting them travel far off the beaten track when adventure calls for it. You can venture beyond Fairbanks to experience the remote Interior further North or explore southern towns like Homer that are situated away from the railroad. But, road trips are more seasonally dependent, and driving is not recommended in winter months.
The Alaska Railroad train passing through the landscape
An Alaska trip by train lets you see beyond where roads go and travel through landscapes year-round in unhurried comfort. It is the perfect way to venture between towns in the Southcentral region or for a scenic transfer from Anchorage to Fairbanks. This is perfect for travelers looking to sit back and enjoy the journey but, while on the train, you are bound to its schedule and stops, limiting opportunities for independent exploration.
If you want to visit the Inside Passage, a cruise is the perfect way to do so. It allows you to jump between charming coastal towns and weave through islands, with the natural beauty of mountains rising from the water on every side. However, it is worth noting that most cruises stay within the Inside Passage, and heading further north by boat would instead be by Alaska Marine Highway System on a ferry.
Popular Alaska Itineraries
As Alaska experts, we have selected our favorite regions to show visitors, whether you're interested in bus tours or boat tours, national parks or charming seaside towns, rugged peaks, or expansive glaciers.
Each itinerary offers our best suggestions and are perfect for inspiration. Your personal Travel Designer will work with you to partner you with the perfect package. But, if you can't find exactly what you're looking for, they would love to create something unique just for you.
The road leading through Denali National Park
Road Trips in Alaska: First-Time Favorites Drive Tour
To drive Alaska’s most scenic highways and stop in charming seaside towns, this road trip introduces you to the Kenai Peninsula before taking you north through Denali National Park to Fairbanks.
Full of freedom and fun, you can choose to take to the waters in Seward (by either canoe, kayak, or water-bound wildlife tour) or Talkeetna (for a river jet boat ride). And with multiple opportunities for bucket list items like helicopter rides with glacial landings along the way, this trip is sure to be full of freedom and adventure — and to be remembered for many, many years to come.
Alaska Railroad trip through the Alaska Range | Credit: Alaska Railroad
Train Trips in Alaska: Alaska Trains Glaciers & Denali
Alaska is perhaps best seen by train, as you get to sit and watch epic landscapes roll by your window. And taking you from the coastal towns of the Southcentral region away from the ocean to the expansive national parks in the Interior, see the range of wilderness Alaska has to offer in comfort. This comfort doesn't mean you are confined to the train. At each of your stops, explore customizable excursions to find what suits your interests best.
Boat tour to see glacial calving | Credit: Kenai Fjord Tours
If you want to view wildlife and check off Alaska's 'Big Five,' take wildlife tours from Anchorage. Or, if you would rather see the rugged peaks from above, flightseeing tours and helicopter rides offer breathtaking views of the glaciers in both Kenai Fjords National Park and Denali National Park. Short hikes to Exit Glacier or Hatcher Pass let you stretch your legs and connect with the land after your time on the train, and brew tours let you connect with the locals.
This package combines a unique way of traversing the wilderness and the chance to get out and really experience it, ensuring you don't miss a thing during your time in Alaska.
A cruise of Alaska’s Inside Passage | Credit: Alaskan Dream Cruises
Cruises in Alaska: Small Ship Cruise of Alaska’s Inside Passage Sojourn
While we specialise in land tours of Alaska, this package — offered by our partner brand Alaska by Design — is the perfect way to see its waters.
Following this itinerary, cruise the Inside Passage to explore coastal communities lining the shore. After boarding your small ship, voyage through Alaska's southern waterways, stopping through charming and unique towns as you go. For much of your time on the water, you will pass through glacial fjords, watching mountainous islands rise up around you. And, when you meet the ground, excursions take you to explore the wilderness as you pass by glaciers, kayak the coastline, land on hidden beaches and scout for marine life.
This itinerary shines in its range, letting travelers enjoy the luxury of a cruise through world-class views while still providing the opportunity to engage with the landscapes you voyage through. And, on the small ship, you are welcomed into an intimate experience of Alaska, led by an expert crew.
Plan your Alaska adventure with Alaska Rail Vacations
Let our Alaska travel experts craft a personalized journey just for you. Whether you're seeking epic landscapes, unique experiences, wildlife encounters, or all three, we’ll tailor every detail to match your travel style.
Contact us today to connect with a Travel Designer and start planning your trip. Or, subscribe to our newsletter to stay in touch (and receive travel tips, itinerary ideas, and to stay up-to-date on our offers while you do).
Wildlife tours spot grizzly bear mothers and cubs
What Activities are in Alaska?
While in Alaska, a plethora of activities await, allowing you to explore your way.
Wildlife Viewing to Spot the Big Five
Alaska is known for its 'Big Five:' bears, moose, caribou, wolves, and Dall sheep. But, if seeing these weren't enough, there is also ample opportunity to see whales as you drive coastal roads or take dedicated whale-watching tours, and eagles soaring overhead.
Fishing Trips in Kodiak
Fishing in Alaska is next level. Go fishing for salmon, halibut, and trout in the Kenai River and surrounding waters.
Cultural Experiences
Across the state, there are many opportunities to get involved and learn about traditional Alaskan Native cultures, ranging from the Haida peoples in the south to the Athabascan in the Interior. Visit Native culture sites such as the Alaska Native Heritage Center and the Dena’ina Center to learn about Native traditions and customs.
Flightseeing tour in Southcentral Alaska | Credit: Ultima Thule Lodge
Flightseeing and Helicopter tours
If you thought Alaska was beautiful from the ground, watching it fall away beneath you is something else entirely. From the air, you get a true sense of Alaska's scale. Mountains that once acted as walls as you drove by are now dwarfed by their neighbors, and inlets you pass by stretch on for what seems like an eternity.
Explore Alaska’s Hidden Gems
Alaska contains a vast amount of hidden gems, from local stores flying under the typical visitors radar to wilderness lodges — off the beaten path by design.
Whether you want to see the untapped wonders of the far north in the Arctic region, or a unique spot to grab a bite, your Travel Designer would love to share their insider knowledge with you.
What is the best month to visit Alaska?
There is no wrong time to visit Alaska. But, Alaska in summer and Alaska in winter feel worlds apart.
Northern Lights in Alaska | Credit: Travel Alaska / Chris McLennan
Winter in Alaska
In winter, explore Alaska’s majestic snowy landscapes and wildlife viewing opportunities. Winter-exclusive activities like dog sledding and snowshoeing can make unique additions to a trip. The Northern Lights brighten the dark nights, and cozy lodges dotted throughout the wilderness make perfect spots to spot them. Travelers should be aware that much of Alaska closes in the 'off-season,' so visitors should be aware that this will be a more independent trip.
Summer in Alaska
Summer in Alaska brings long days and open roads. Activities like glacier cruises, canoeing, fishing, and bear viewing are in full swing. But, it can be busier — this especially true in areas where cruise ships frequent — so it is wise to book must-do experiences in advance.
All Year Round
Alaska is an incredible place to see year-round. Its gold rush history and strong Indigenous culture are ever-present and always set against incredible views. The Alaska Railroad provides service whatever the season, and a wonderful opportunity to explore Alaska's changing beauty all year long.
How much does the average trip to Alaska cost?
The average cost of a trip to Alaska depends on the season of travel, the duration of the stay, the number of travelers, and the experiences you're looking for along the way.
Typically for visitors this ranges between $2,100 - $9,200 USD. However, for guests with a larger budget, the state is home to a multitude of luxury wilderness lodges that provide an elevated stay in Alaska's remote backcountry and a truly unique experience.
What is the best way to see Alaska for the first time?
We recommend trips through Alaska's Southcentral and Interior regions for first-time visitors. This allows travelers to see a wide variety of landscapes, towns, and cities while still providing ease of access.
How do I get around Alaska?
Arriving in Alaska, you will typically land at Anchorage or Fairbanks. From there, Alaska's highways offer scenic drives, and train trips let visitors travel in ultimate comfort. Both let you see Alaska's most popular areas.
While more remote locations might require additional transport, at Alaska Rail Vacations, your Travel Designer will be happy to help you organize and arrange any additional requirements so that your dream trip becomes a reality.