Thinking of visiting Alaska? Well, it would be boring to plan your trip if you didn’t know about all the fun things to do in Alaska. But, don’t worry! We will help you plan some fun things you can do in Alaska.
Alaska is the largest state (by size) in the United States of America. It is also commonly called “big country” and “Alyeska.”
It occupies a large peninsula at the northwestern tip of North America. Alaska is known for its glaciers, national parks, midnight sun, vast wilderness, cruises, and northern lights. With 3 million lakes, over 12,000 rivers, an estimated 100,000 glaciers, and more volcanoes than any other state in the United States, this place has the best things for you.
Alaska has so much to offer and has many fun things to do that your trip will be memorable no matter what you decide. If you’re wondering what some fun things to do in Alaska are, this guide will help you.
Here’s a small overview of all of the fun things to do in Alaska that you can pick from:
- Half-day tours
- Nature and wildlife tours
- Scenic drives
- Whale watching
- City tours
- Visit state parks
- Watch the northern lights
- Night tours
- Winter sports
- Hikes and hiking tours
- Nature and wildlife exploration
- Ziplining
- Cruises
- Visit historic spots
- Enjoy thermal spas and hot springs
The list of all these options might leave you overwhelmed. It might confuse you about the things to take up while in Alaska. Well, things will get a little easier with the list of all the fun things to do in Alaska. If you wish to know the best time to visit Alaska and all the places to visit here, click here. We would recommend visiting all places, including Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Homer for the best Alaskan experience. So, let us begin with all the things you can do in Alaska.
Fun Things to Do in Alaska (1-3)
There is much to do and see in the Alaskan region. The more time you could spend here, the better it is. You can go on sightseeing tours, excursions, and railroad adventures to gain as much experience as possible.
Here are the top three things you can do in Alaska.
Hiking- Explore the Best of Alaska!
Enjoying the gorgeous trails and scenic views of the city of anchorage is one of the best things to do in Alaska. Visiting the Anchorage area will let you witness the great nature trails.
Even otherwise too, hiking is a great way to get some movement during your trip while also connecting with nature and enjoying the lovely scenery of the city. You could try the Flattop Mountain Trail, Rabbit Lake Trail, Flattop Sunny Side Trail, or the Rendezvous Peak Trail. These trails are highly rated and gorgeous and are bound to ensure a great time.
Take the city tours- One of the Best things to do in Alaska!
Go and explore the beautiful city of Anchorage, Palmer, Juneau, Fairbanks, and others through these tours. Taking these tours is one of the top things to do in Alaska. You can choose which part of the gorgeous place you want to focus on by selecting the kind of tour to take.
You could go on the Anchorage Trolley Tour, the Super Scenic Day Tour from Anchorage, the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail Scenic Bike Tour, or any tours available from the Kenai Fjords National Park. Most Alaskan sightseeing tours will take you away from the urban reality into the wilderness.
These tours offer an in-depth look at the city and are one of the more fascinating things to do in Anchorage, Homer, Fairbanks, and the whole of Alaska!
Enjoy the Water Sports- Get Some Adrenaline Rushing in Your Body!
Add some thrill and fun to your trip by partaking in Alaska’s water sports. You could even go on water tours or cruises in Anchorage. White water rafting, paddleboarding, and kayaking are some fun things to do in Alaska. Besides, water sports here will leave you thrilled as these are one of the most fun things to do in Anchorage.
Fun things to Do in Alaska (4-6)
Other than these three things, you could also plan for other highly-rated fun things to do in Alaska
Visit some historic sites- Know the Culture and History of Alaska!
You could visit some museums and historical sites to connect with the city and learn more about its roots. A trip to the Anchorage Museum, the Girdwood Center for the Visual Arts, the Roundhouse, or Alaska Aviation Museum will give you a satisfying experience.
If you’re curious about Alaska’s history, you could visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center or the Earthquake Park. The Potter Section House, Eklutna Village Historic Park, and the Indian Valley Mine are also some great options to consider.
You could also take a trip to Saxman Native Village. Several National Parks in Alaska will give you a fulfilling experience.
Enjoy the food and culture- The Best of All the Fun Things to Do in Alaska!
Alaska is a great city with a lot to offer in terms of food and culture. We suggest you make the most of all that is available while visiting this gorgeous place.
You could take a wine tour and visit popular restaurants such as Pangea Restaurant And Lounge, Orso, Spinz Pollo a la Brasa Crush Bistro, Kincaid Grill, and Wine Bar in Anchorage. Visiting other places such as Homer, Fairbanks, Juneau, Sitka, and Valdez will also let you experience the culinary delicacies you have never had!
Indulge in the Nightlife
It is one of the most fun things to do in Alaska, especially if you are a night owl. You could go to a club or enjoy the performing arts. There are also some excellent options for family entertainment.
There’s also live music, evening comedy shows, and breweries to visit and enjoy. Cities like Homer, Fairbanks, and Anchorage have vibrant nightlife! So, don’t forget to indulge in the nightlife on your tour to Alaska.
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If time allows, you could consider adding these things to Alaska’s to-do list.
Take a Fairbanks Tour- Explore the Best of the Arctic!
It is Alaska’s second-biggest town and a hub of the Arctic. And its history as a lively mining town, its place right in the heart of Alaska. The midnight sun’s appearances and the townfolk’s sincere hospitality have led to it being named the Golden Heart City.
Fairbanks is known for its top-tier housing and eateries, concerts, historical places, museums, Alaskan Native culture, and its Alaskan wilderness. It is likewise well-known for its exceptionally long summertime days, making it feel like the sunlight will never finish.
Here are some fun things to do in Fairbanks
- Winter sports; You could spice up your trip by indulging in some of the winter sports. Water sports are one of the most fun things to do in Alaska. You could go skiing, snowboarding, river rafting, fishing, or even on water excursions.
- Fairbanks tours (day, night, wildlife); There is so much to explore in this stunning city. And tours are a great way to do that while focusing on a specific aspect like wildlife or nature. You could even go on tours meant just for viewing the aurora borealis. Some great tours you could take are the Arctic Circle drive, the side-by-side morning tour, the heritage and sightseeing tour, or a dog sledge adventure. These tours are one of the best things to do in Fairbanks to get to know the city.
- Indulge in the nightlife, wine, and food; The stunning city offers a great variety of food and a lovely culture to explore, indulge and partake in. Ivory Jacks, The Boatel, and Black Spruce Brewing Company are some great, popular, local hubs to visit for a good time. Enjoy the diverse culture and rich history of this gorgeous place.
View the Northern Lights- Treat Your Sore Eyes With the Beautiful Lights!
It is one of the top things to do in Alaska that is an absolute must. The northern lights dancing in the night sky are breathtaking and something you must see at least once in your life. This phenomenon of nature is a sight to behold.
Dedicate a Day to Visit Homer- A Must-Do Thing Of All the Things to Do in Alaska!
The city is known for its cerulean bay, access to bear viewing areas, and wonderful areas for halibut fishing. The city was founded in 1895 and named after gold prospector Homer Pennock. It has a cozy environment, lovely scenery, and delicious food with friendly locals. The town has an artsy vibe in the downtown region and numerous eateries serving delicious local seafood, produce, beer, and baked goods.
Fun Things to Do in Alaska (10-12)
If you are going to be in Alaska for long, you could take a trip to various places such as Homer, Kenai, Whittier, and Palmer to explore the best of the following things.
Visit the State Parks- Enjoy the Scenic Beauty of Nature
Visiting these parks is one of the best things to do in Homer or any other city in Alaska. These state parks allow you to connect with nature and enjoy the wilderness. Some state parks you should definitely visit include the following.
- Kachemak Bay State Park
- Denali National Park
- Kachemak Bay State Park
- Totem Bight State Historical Park.
- Sitka National Historic Park/Totem Park
- Fort Abercrombie State Historical Park
- Chena River State Recreation Area
- Chugach State Park
Sit By Alaska’s Beaches- The Way to Contemplate and Get Your Daily Doze of Sun!
Homer and Kenai have some gorgeous beaches you can visit to relax and feel the water touch your feet and the sand beneath it, like the gorgeous bishop’s beach.
Some beaches you should include in Alaska’s itinerary are as follows.
- Whittier Beach, Whittier
- Black Sand Beach of Barry Arm in Harriman Fjord
- Wild Pocket Beaches
- Lowell Point and Tonsina Point, Seward
- Captain Cook State Recreation Area, Nikiski
- Kasilof River Beach, Kasilof
Visiting these beaches will leave you with an unimaginable experience. The nature’s beauty at these beaches will surely leave you in awe,
Enjoy ferry rides- Something You Cannot Miss Out From Your List of Things to Do in Alaska!
Ferry rides are a must when you are in Alaska. After all, these let you enjoy the scenic beauty of Alaska. You can even customize boat tours or choose from various routes. You could even take a whale-watching route. These ferry rides are one of the best things to do in Alaska There are even ferries from Homer to Anchorage or Juneau or Fairbanks.
Quick Recap
Taking a trip to Alaska will leave you feeling refreshed and energized. After all, there are several things to do in Alaska. On your visit to Alaska, don’t forget to visit these beautiful destinations for an experience of a lifetime, And don’t forget to enjoy all the adventurous activities we listed.
FAQs
- What are some things to do in Anchorage, Alaska?
Ans- You could visit hiking trails or go on treks. You could also go to museums and enjoy the various tours it has.
- What are some things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska?
Ans- You could partake in water sports, view the northern lights, or enjoy the culture and food.
- What are some things to do in Homer, Alaska?
Ans- While in Homer, you could visit the state parks or the beaches or enjoy the gorgeous views of the ferries.
- Why should I visit Alaska?
Ans- Alaska is a gorgeous place with a lot to offer and many fun activities. You could go on city tours, visit state parks, watch the northern lights dance in the night sky, partake in winter/water sports, go on hikes and go on sledge rides.
- When are some fun things to do in Alaska?
Ans- Alaska offers you a great adventure with mesmerizing beauty. You could do several fun activities in Alaska when visiting these three places.
