Alaska Travel Guide:This is the most complete and detailed travel guide to Alaska during the summer.
It draws on an eight-day self-drive trip and can help you plan a flexible Alaska itinerary.
In Alaska, you can immerse yourself in serene natural landscapes and unwind. From snow-capped mountains, glaciers, lush hills, pristine waters, and wetlands to harbors, the beauty is breathtaking, akin to paradise, compelling visitors to stay and lose track of time.
Table of Contents
What to do in Alaska?
Alaska is the largest state in the United States and one of the five tax-free states in the United States.
Like Hawaii, Alaska doesn’t share its borders with any other U.S. state.
Before 1867, Alaska was under Russian control and was later purchased by the United States for 7.2 million U.S. dollars.
This acquisition was a tremendous bargain for the United States, a credit mainly due to the efforts of then-U.S. Secretary of State William H. Seward.
Recognizing his role, an important town in southern Alaska was named “Seward” in his honor.
Alaska boasts 20 national parks, renowned for their glaciers and the Northern Lights. McKinley Mountain, located in Denali National Park in northern Alaska, is the tallest peak in North America.
Tips: The first lowest valley in North America is located in Badwater Basin in Death Valley National Park.
Alaska is very cold in winter, and you can see the rare aurora at that time.
Summer is the prime time to visit Alaska, especially from June to August, which marks the height of the travel season. Many roads and hotels operate exclusively during these three months. With daylight stretching up to 19 hours, it’s fascinating to see the sky still illuminated at 1 a.m.
There are many ways to visit Alaska. You can take a large cruise ship from Seattle or a local train to different cities (check the train schedule).
Of course, you should choose a self-driving tour to explore the hinterland and experience Alaska’s beauty up close.
What’s the weather like in Alaska?
Alaska has a vast territory, and the temperature in different locations is also different.
For example, the temperature in Denali National Park is lower than that in Anchorage.
The following is a map of Anchorage’s annual temperature changes:
The temperature in Denali National Park will be even lower.
If it rains, the temperature in summer may drop below zero degrees Celsius.
The following is a map of the annual temperature changes in Denali National Park:
Many places in Alaska, such as Denali National Park, have a large temperature difference between morning and evening.
In summer, the nighttime temperature is generally around 5-10 degrees Celsius, and the daytime temperature can reach 19-24 degrees Celsius.
- Summer is the prime time to visit Alaska, from early June to late August.
- Winter in Alaska is characterized by chilling temperatures, often dropping to -8 degrees Celsius and even plunging to -25 degrees Celsius. This season offers the perfect setting for skiing and witnessing the mesmerizing auroras.
What are the major cities in Alaska?
Alaska is between Russia and Canada, not adjacent to the contiguous United States.
The main tourist destinations in Alaska are concentrated in the central and southern parts :
- Fairbanks: In the middle of Alaska, it is an excellent place to see the aurora in winter.
- Anchorage, Talkeetna, Seward, Homer: These destinations are located south of Alaska. During the summer, they are ideal for witnessing glaciers and observing wildlife. In the winter, they transform, offering visitors the enchanting beauty of snowy and icy landscapes.
Anchorage and Fairbanks are about 6 hours apart, with Anchorage in the south and Fairbanks in the center, as shown below.
What are the airports in Alaska?
Alaska has two international airports:
- Anchorage Airport (ANC): The full name is Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport. It’s a popular choice for travelers, and numerous U.S. cities offer direct flights to this location.
- Fairbanks Airport (FAI): If you plan to see the aurora, you might choose to fly to Fairbanks.
How do you choose the two airports?
- For summer adventures, Anchorage Airport (ANC) is the top pick.
- For winter aurora viewing, Fairbanks Airport (FAI) is the preferred choice.
How to Arrange Transportation in Alaska?
In Alaska, you can choose to visit by train or by car.
By Train
Alaska’s trains connect important cities in Alaska. You can refer to the Alaska train route map below.
There are mainly the following options for Alaska trains in summer, and you can book tickets via the official website:
- Denali Star: This route links Anchorage with Fairbanks, making stops at Wasilla, Talkeetna, and Denali along the way. The entire trip is around 12 hours long. Notably, the Denali Star offers two service tiers: Adventure Class and the premium Goldstar Service. Goldstar offers business-class amenities, including panoramic sunroof views, though it comes with a premium price tag, costing $441 for an adult.
- Glacier Discovery: This route links Anchorage to Grandview, stopping at locations like Girdwood, Whittier, Portage, and Spencer. The journey spans approximately 6 hours.
- Coastal Classic: This train links Anchorage and Seward, pausing only at Girdwood. The journey spans approximately 4.5 hours.
The above three routes run for 4 months yearly, from May 16 to September 16.
From September onwards until May, you can travel on the following winter trains:
- Aurora Winter:Similar to Denali Star, it also links Anchorage and Fairbanks, primarily ferrying passengers to the northern city of Fairbanks to witness the renowned auroras. The train makes intermediate stops at Wasilla, Talkeetna, and Healy, with the entire journey spanning approximately 12 hours. It’s important to highlight that winter trains typically operate only twice weekly. For specific departure details, please go to the official website to find the particular departure information.
Self-Driving Tour
Driving through Alaska is a breeze, thanks to its well-maintained roads.
Plus, with captivating landscapes flanking both sides of the roadway, you can pull over at any moment to relax and soak in the views.
In Alaska, many of the roads and railways run side by side. As you drive, it’s common to spot trains chugging along nearby.
To decide which mode of transport is best for you, let’s delve into a quick comparison:
- It is very cost-effective and convenient to drive by yourself. Additionally, it allows you to explore various attractions along the route. However, it requires you to be behind the wheel, which can be taxing for the driver.
- Traveling by train offers a comfortable and scenic journey akin to viewing paradise. However, it comes with a heftier price tag and doesn’t allow for stops at cities and attractions. Thus, the train is ideal for aurora-viewing in Fairbanks during winter, given the challenges of winter driving in Alaska. It’s also more fitting for senior travelers.
Conversely, embarking on a self-drive tour through Alaska is arguably the best choice in the summertime, promising countless delightful surprises.
During the wintertime, or if you are tired of driving, you might want to utilize the train service.
What to Pack Before Traveling to Alaska?
If you are going to Alaska, you may need to prepare the following five items: mosquito repellent, dizziness prevention, warmth, photographic equipment, and hiking equipment.
Anti-Mosquito Items
In summer, mosquitoes are rampant in Alaska, so anti-mosquito items are essential for visiting in summer.
We usually bring the following three anti-mosquito items.
The first is an anti-mosquito mask, best used with a hat.
The second is an anti-mosquito spray, which is sprayed on the body before going out.
The third is an ointment to relieve itching and pain after mosquito bites.
The fourth is an anti-mosquito Mosquito bracelet. You wear it every day.
Please choose according to your personal needs. We went this time in early June, and the mosquitoes were not rampant, so we didn’t use mosquito masks.
However, the situation in July and August should be different, so everyone should take more precautions.
Related reading:40+ mosquito repellent products
Anti-stunning Items
You must take a short-distance cruise in Alaska. You can experience the magnificence of the glacier at close range, and if you are lucky, you can also see many marine animals.
However, the sea in Alaska is very rough, and you will be very dizzy when taking a cruise. It is very painful to be dizzy for six to ten hours.
When we were on a cruise, a tourist beside him didn’t get up for six hours.
We prepared the following anti-sickness items:
Sea-Bank’s anti-sickness bracelet works physically by applying pressure to acupuncture points, ensuring no side effects.
It’s conveniently worn on the wrist and is designed specifically for children.
Dramamine is a well-known over-the-counter motion sickness drug in the United States.
Items to Keep Warm
The temperature difference between morning and evening in Alaska is very large.
Generally, the temperature at night is about 5 degrees Celsius, and the temperature during the day can reach 20 degrees Celsius.
When heading to Alaska, it’s essential to pack sufficient winter attire. Cruises can be particularly chilly due to the sea breeze. When boarding a cruise, dress in warm layers, as standing on the front deck observing the glaciers can get extremely cold. On our return, Denali Park greeted us with heavy rain and temperatures that plunged below freezing.
Telephoto camera and telescope
Consider bringing a telephoto camera and a telescope designed for wildlife spotting to capture Alaska’s scenic splendor.
When trying to photograph distant snow-capped peaks, birds, and wildlife, a smartphone often falls short of delivering the desired outcome.
We saw a lot of tourists with ultra-telephoto white lenses along the way.
Here are a few entry-level devices that are guaranteed to be easy to use:
The Sony Alpha 6300 is the top camera in the $1000 range, offering 4K video capabilities and unparalleled shooting quality.
The Bushnell waterproof and fog-resistant binoculars are essential when hiking or observing wildlife in Denali Park. They’re a game-changer for nature enthusiasts, ensuring clear and detailed views even in challenging conditions.
Related reading:Compared with SLR, what is the advantage of a mirrorless camera?
Hiking Equipment:
High-quality hiking shoes and trekking poles are essential for unique treks like the Exit Glacier.
I suggest Columbia’s lightweight hiking shoes, which offer a snug fit.
Using a hiking pole can make the journey considerably more comfortable when trekking.
If you’re planning a solo hike on Exit Glacier, the shortest route is a round trip of at least 3 miles, but it can be extended if you opt for additional paths.
You can disembark, hike, and scale peaks in Denali National Park. The right gear will be invaluable in these endeavors.
In addition, you can also prepare some sunscreen, especially if you are traveling with children.
Related Reading:Sunscreen Recommendations – Not All Sunscreens Are Safe
Self-Driving Tour Itinerary
Day 1: The plane arrives at Alaska Airport (ANC Airport)
The plane arrived at Anchorage Airport in Alaska. Pick up the car at the airport and stay overnight in Anchorage’s midtown.
Day 2: Explore Anchorage
In the morning, visit downtown Anchorage and the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, and in the afternoon, visit Kincaid Park.
Stay in Anchorage’s midtown at night.
Day 3: Anchorage to Seward (127 miles)
Replenish food and water at Target in Anchorage in the morning, then drive to Seward.
Check Potter Marsh Bird Sanctuary (wetland, bird watching), Beluga Point, Bird Point, and Wildlife Conservation Center during the road.
At night, stay in Seward.
Day 4: Seward & Kenai Fjords National Park
Take the 11:30 am boat at the port of Seward to visit Kenai Fjords National Park (Kenai Fjords National Park). The whole journey takes 6 hours.
A simple lunch will be offered on board. You can watch glaciers and marine life along the way.
Book a cruise in advance. And stay in Seward for the night.
Day 5: Seward drives to Talkeetna (238 miles), visits Portage Glacier and Whittier
In the morning, hike about a mile at the Exit Glacier in Seward to see the glacier up close.
In the afternoon, drive to Portage Glacier and visit the small town of Whittier.
Stay overnight in a cabin in Talkeetna, a gateway town to Denali National Park.
Day 6: Talkeetna to Denali National Park (152 miles)
Visit the flying town of Talkeetna in the morning.
Head to Denali National Park in the afternoon and look at Mount McKinley and the surrounding scenery of Denali National Park at several viewing points along the way.
Stay overnight in a cabin in Catwell, close to the park.
Day 7: Denali National Park Road Tour
Board the park-provided tour bus to explore the national park, setting out at 9:15 a.m. and reaching the Eielson Visitor Center before making the return journey, totaling 9 hours.
You can check the bus schedule here and make your reservation. Spend another night in a cabin in Cantwell.
Day 8: Denali returns to Anchorage by plane (243 miles)
Drive back to Anchorage at 10 o’clock in the morning and continue to enjoy the beauty of Alaska along the way.
Return the car and return by plane.
Must-See Attractions in Alaska?
Alaska, often known as “The Last Frontier,” is a vast expanse of wilderness, home to magnificent wildlife, stunning landscapes, and rich history.
If you’re planning a trip to Alaska, here are six pivotal attractions encompassing both urban and natural wonders:
Cities to Explore:
- Anchorage: As Alaska’s largest city, Anchorage is a hub of culture, history, and modern conveniences. Visitors can explore the Anchorage Museum, dine on fresh seafood, and shop for Native Alaskan handicrafts. The city also hosts the famous Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race.
- Seward: A coastal city with a rich maritime history. Here, you can cruise into the awe-inspiring Kenai Fjords National Park, known for its tidewater glaciers and vibrant marine life.
- Whittier: An enchanting town, Whittier is a gateway to Prince William Sound. Its unique location—reachable by a train tunnel—adds to its mystique. Tourists can enjoy glacier cruises, fishing, and sea kayaking.
- Talkeetna: This quaint town is a mecca for adventure seekers. From here, you can take flightseeing tours of the mesmerizing Denali and experience the expansive Alaskan wilderness from the air.
Majestic National Parks:
- Kenai Fjords National Park: A place where mountains, ice, and ocean converge. The park is renowned for its glacier-carved fjords, abundant wildlife, and opportunities for marine cruises—witness tidewater glaciers calving into the ocean and spot orcas, puffins, sea otters, and more.
- Denali National Park: Home to North America’s highest peak, Mount Denali, this park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. It offers spectacular landscapes and sightings of grizzly bears, caribou, moose, and wolves. The park’s only road, Denali Park Road, provides a scenic journey into the heart of wild Alaska.
1. Anchorage
Tony Knowles Coastal Trail
Nestled in the heart of the U.S., the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is one of the country’s most picturesque coastal hiking destinations.
It encompasses the historical Earthquake Park and boasts high ratings on Google Review.
This is a family-friendly 11-mile journey that offers various activities, including hiking, biking, rollerblading, and running.
This trail seamlessly leads into Kincaid Park, another of Anchorage’s revered national parks.
During our visit, we explored on bicycles, complete with a trailer for our youngest member. The journey was a thrill for our child, making the adventure truly memorable.
For those looking to bike, consider Pablo’s Bike Rental. Operated by a dedicated father-son business, Pablo’s Bike Rental’s enthusiasm and professionalism shine through. Our bike and trailer rental was reasonably priced at $45 for three hours, significantly enhancing our trail experience.
Kincaid Park
A sprawling 1,500-acre woodland, this destination can occupy half a full day of exploration.
Known as the 2001 Winter Special Olympics venue, it offers breathtaking views of mountain ranges where moose, black bears, and bald eagles are frequent sights.
Boasting over 40 miles of trails, it transforms into a winter wonderland for skiing enthusiasts and serves as an ideal hiking spot during the summer months.
Anchorage Downtown
Anchorage, the largest city in Alaska, offers convenient transportation, accommodation, and dining options.
Essential stores like Target, Costco, and Lowes are available, ensuring that if you’ve forgotten any necessities, you can easily purchase them here.
The city center hosts a local market every Saturday and Sunday from June through September. This marketplace allows you to explore many products showcasing the local flair.
Approximately 300 local vendors participate in this market situated at 3rd Ave. If you find yourself in downtown Anchorage over the weekend, it’s worth visiting this market.
For those with additional time, other notable attractions in Anchorage include the Alaska Zoo, Alaska Heritage Center, and the Anchorage Museum.
2. Scenic Route from Anchorage to Seward
The only way from Anchorage to Seward is Highway 1, also called Seward Highway.
As you journey along this road, you’re flanked by the ocean on one side and towering mountains on the other. The breathtaking views are virtually endless. Mileposts mark key landmarks along the way.
I’ll walk you through some of the highlights:
Potter Marsh Wildlife Viewing
This spot, commonly called the Anchorage Wildlife Refuge, is at mile 117 on the Seward Highway.
The refuge boasts a diverse bird population with over 130 species present.
Additionally, it provides opportunities to spot a range of wildlife, including muskrats, moose, and salmon. Allocate around 1-2 hours to appreciate what this area offers.
Beluga Point
Located at mile 110 of the Seward Highway, this spot offers an excellent opportunity to observe marine life.
It’s common to catch glimpses of Belugas chasing after salmon here. The combination of pristine waters and the breathtaking horizon makes the view truly spectacular.
A regular viewing platform lets you see the snow-capped mountains and mountains at close range.
Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
Located at mile 79 on the Seward Highway, this wildlife park is home to black bears, brown bears, foxes, moose, and other creatures.
Admission is $15 per adult, and children under six enter for free.
3. Whittier
Whittier is like a paradise.
This small town is located on the other side of a big mountain, and there is only a one-way trans-mountain train tunnel about 2.5 miles long.
This tunnel is used by both trains and cars. Since it is a one-way tunnel, entering and leaving the city needs to be arranged according to a specific time. It takes about 30 minutes to enter and 30 minutes to exit. At the same time, when the train is in use, the car must wait.
Therefore, this small town is like a paradise, with extremely beautiful scenery. On the way to Whittier, you will pass Portage Lake and Portage Glacier:
Portage Lake is a must-pass on the road to Whittier City. Turn to Portage Glacier Rd at the Wildlife Conservation Center on Seward Highway, and then drive there.
Portage Lake is located at the southernmost edge of Alaska’s Chugach State Park. Glaciers surround this shimmering body of water and offer breathtaking beauty.
Continuing from Portage Lake, you’ll approach the Whittier City toll gate. The entrance fee for Whittier is $13 for a standard car, with higher rates for larger vehicles.
Once you’ve paid the toll, you’ll queue up at the entrance to a unique 2.5-mile tunnel. Initially constructed for military use, the tunnel was repurposed for civilian traffic after the military pulled out.
The tunnel operates on a schedule, typically allowing traffic to flow in one direction for half an hour before switching to the other.
If there’s an oncoming train, vehicles must wait for it to pass through first. Sharing the road with a train was a first-time experience for us.
The quaint town of Whittier is a hidden gem, nestled near the shores of Prince William Sound. Its breathtaking scenery captivates visitors, making leaving such a picturesque paradise hard.
4. Seward
Seward, nestled in southern Alaska, is a testament to its namesake, the former U.S. Secretary of State, William Seward.
It boasts several renowned ports and is a popular stopover for many grand cruises. If your schedule permits, it’s worth dedicating a few days to exploring its charm.
Encircled by majestic mountains and serene rivers, Seward feels almost otherworldly in its beauty.
While here, consider embarking on a cruise to the iconic Kenai Fjord National Park or trek to Exit Glacier, where nature showcases some of its most magnificent glaciers.
In Seward, we embarked on a six-hour cruise that began at 11:15 and had us back by 5:30 in the evening. The highlight was undoubtedly the breathtaking glacier we had eagerly anticipated.
Furthermore, the marine life was a visual treat. We were captivated by the sights of seals, whales, and sea lions. What surprised me was the pristine blue hue of the glacier – a revelation I hadn’t known before.
Upon closer observation, witnessing massive chunks of glaciers breaking off and crashing into the water is awe-inspiring and electrifying.
Close to Seward lies the renowned Exit Glacier, a popular destination for solo hiking. It offers the unique opportunity to witness a glacier up close on foot.
Being part of the Kenai Fjords National Park, the stunning combination of snowy peaks and verdant hills creates a breathtaking and awe-inspiring landscape that’s truly unforgettable.
Driving out of Exit Glacier, on the way to Anchorage, there is another excellent location, just on the right side of the road, where you can see the magnificent glacier. We were lucky to see a Moose mother with her baby crossing the river.
Indeed, the ideal way to explore Alaska is by car. This allows for spontaneous stops and the freedom to immerse oneself in the untouched beauty of the Alaskan wilderness at one’s own pace.
5. From Anchorage to Denali
The flying town of Talkeetna is about an hour and a half away from Denali, on the way between Anchorage and Denali.
There are many air tours here. You can take a small plane to overlook the beautiful glacier scenery.
You can also land on the glacier and feel its charm at the closest distance.
On the way to Denali, there are two important places to watch Mount McKinley.
According to locals, there is generally only a 30% chance of fully seeing Mount McKinley because the mountains are usually surrounded by dense fog.
The following are two great filming locations:
- Denali Viewpoint North (1 hour and 15 minutes from the park entrance)
- Denali Viewpoint South (1 hour 40 minutes drive from the park entrance)
6. Denali National Park and Preserve
To protect Denali National Park’s natural scenery, visitors must take the shuttle bus provided by the park and can only drive up to 15 miles by themselves.
You can choose from two shuttle buses: Transit Bus and Tour Bus.
A transit bus offers a more flexible and economical way to travel. With the freedom to choose your stops and the ability to hop on and off at various points, it’s an excellent choice for those who like to adapt their plans on the go. However, you must ensure there’s space available for subsequent rides.
On the other hand, the Tour Bus is pricier, approximately double the cost of a transit bus. The main advantage is the guided experience provided.
With a dedicated driver providing commentary and insights throughout the journey, it’s ideal for those who prefer a more structured and informative trip without planning stops.
The Transit Bus also offers a narrated experience, with the driver providing continuous commentary throughout the journey. You can book a tour bus here.
The tour bus fare includes an entrance fee of $10. However, children are waived for all charges and can enjoy the tour for free.
Just at the gateway to Denali Park lies the quaint town of Denali National Park and Preserve. This town boasts a selection of hotels, cabins, RV parking spaces, dining options, and stores selling souvenirs.
If you plan to take the shuttle bus, head to the Wildlife Access Center (WAC) at Mile 1, right at the park’s entrance.
Here, you’ll exchange the online purchase for your ticket and then get ready to board the park’s tour bus for your exploration. It’s worth noting that they begin checking tickets around 15 minutes before departure, so aim to arrive at least 30 minutes early.
Once aboard, securing a seat on the left side of the bus is recommended, as this offers expansive views, making it ideal for gazing at Denali and the riverbed valley below.
Conversely, sitting on the right for your return trip will increase your chances of spotting wildlife.
As for the best spots to admire Mount McKinley (also known as Denali) within the park, they include:
- First Denali View/Healy Ridge (Mile 9)
- Primrose Ridge (Mile 16)
- Near Savage River (Mile 13-15)
- Stony Dome/Stony Hill Overlook (Mile 62): Best places to shoot pictures
- Eielson Visitor Center (Mile 66, 15 miles from Denali)
- Near Wonder Lake/Reflection Pond (Mile 85-87)
The best strategy is to buy a Transit Bus Ticket at the Eielson Visitor Center.
However, don’t come back with the same bus, because the time the bus stops at each location is too short.
It’s better to give yourself an hour or so at the Eielson Visitor Center to truly soak in the sights, maybe even indulge in a hike or a climb.
Once you’re done, you can conveniently hop onto another Transit bus heading in the return direction. This way, you’re not rushed and can truly appreciate the beauty of the location.
It is important to know that Denali Park is where bears come and go.
In addition, it might be wise to carry bear spray for added security and peace of mind. Always prioritize safety and ensure you’re familiar with the proper use and storage of bear spray before heading out.
How do you arrange accommodation in Alaska?
Indeed, when visiting Alaska, you have a range of accommodation options in key locations:
- Anchorage: As the state’s largest city, Anchorage offers various accommodations. From luxury hotels to quaint bed and breakfasts, you’ll find something to fit every budget and taste. While in Anchorage, you can explore the city’s cultural sites, shopping destinations, and dining options.
- Seward: This coastal city is known for its picturesque surroundings and proximity to Kenai Fjords National Park. Seward has a mix of lodgings, from hotels with views of Resurrection Bay to charming inns. It’s an ideal base for those who want to cruise, go fishing, or explore marine life.
- Talkeetna: This small town is often the starting point for those who wish to embark on mountaineering adventures in Denali. It has a rustic charm and offers a range of accommodations, such as lodges, cabins, and bed and breakfasts. Staying here allows you to enjoy a slower pace and engage with locals while surrounded by nature.
- Denali Park: If you want to immerse yourself in the wilderness, consider staying within or near Denali National Park and Preserve. While a few hotels are near the park entrance, there are also cabins and campgrounds for a more authentic experience. By staying inside or close to the park, you can explore its vast landscapes, watch wildlife, and maybe even catch a glimpse of the majestic Denali peak.
Remember, reservations are highly recommended wherever you stay, especially during the peak tourist season.
For example, you can consider Marriott’s chain hotel SpringHill in Anchorage. It provides breakfast and costs about $200 a day.
You can get member rates or win free nights with the
In Seward, we chose Best Western Plus, which should be one of the best hotels in the area. It provides a complimentary breakfast and is close to the sea.
You can see the water surface and the rolling snow-capped mountains from the house. The price is about $220 per night.
In Talkeetna, we chose a cabin. This is a privately run cabin.
You can book it directly on Book.com. The name is Talkeetna Love-Lee Cabins. There are only three cabins between $180 and $210. There is no waiting for one night.
The interior furnishings are a bit old, but everything you need, such as a refrigerator, stove, shower, etc., is quite convenient. It’s only 10 minutes away from here to the town of Talkeetna.
We lived in Catwell, near Denali National Park, and rented a cabin called Backwoods Lodge so that we could visit.
The house was in very good condition. According to the owner, our room was just renovated, so the facilities were all new.
The price is also around $200. From here, it’s about a half hour to the entrance to Denali National Park. We chose to stay here because the price is more reasonable. You can also stay in the cabins closer to Denali National Park, which is expensive. We did it to save some money.
Good Restaurants in Alaska
The most famous food in Alaska is salmon. Many of the salmon here are wild salmon. The fish’s body is reddish and very fresh.
This time, we mostly ordered salmon (Salman) and flounder (Hallibut) because the fish in Alaska are the freshest and most natural.
The restaurants we tried this time were all highly rated on Google. In Anchorage, we tried Glacier Brewhouse. There were many people, and we often had to wait.
The conditions inside are very good, and the taste is good. Brunch (one meal for breakfast and lunch) will be provided if you arrive on the weekend.
In Seward, we tried two restaurants: Cookery and Chinook. The Cookery is just across the street from our hotel. The Google score is very good, and there are many people.
We had to wait 50 minutes to get a seat when we went. After we finished our meal, it was almost 10 p.m.
The other one is called Chinooks, just next to Seward’s port. It is very popular with customers, and there is an endless stream.
Although the outside looks shabby, the decoration inside is very distinctive and comfortable. We waited about 30 minutes to be seated. While waiting for our seats, we saw a lot of seabirds and five cute otters.
We tried a Chinese restaurant in Whittier. Although it was a Chinese restaurant, the owner was Korean. They have lived here for over 10 years. The food was OK.
The most interesting thing is that one restaurant wall is covered with visitors’ post-it messages, and we also leave our blessings.
There is a very distinctive Pizza Pub near Denali. The price is very reasonable, and the taste is also very good. The most interesting thing is that the restaurant is full of one-dollar bills, and visitors have commented on it.
Summary
The beauty of Alaska is diverse, including snow-capped mountains, glaciers, green hills, wetlands, and harbors.
The summer climate is pleasant and suitable for tourism, and the university is closed in winter, so it is suitable for skating and watching the aurora.
There are few people in June. The peak visiting time is July and August.
Remember to bring a professional camera and binoculars and leave the best memories.
If you have any questions or suggestions, please leave a message in the message area at the end of the article.
FAQ
Q1. Best time to travel to Alaska?
Alaska is very cold in winter, and at that time you can see the rare aurora;
summer is the golden season for visiting Alaska, with June to August as the peak period for travel, and many roads and hotels are only available during these three months. open.
Daylight hours can last up to 19 hours in summer, and it’s still light at one o’clock in the morning.
Q2. What are the airports in Alaska?
There are two international airports in Alaska:
one in Anchorage in the south: most passengers will choose to fly here, and many cities in the United States have direct flights here;
one in Fairbanks in the north ( Fairbanks): If you plan to see the Northern Lights, you can also choose to fly to FAI, the airport in Fairbanks.
Q3. How is the weather in Alaska?
Alaska has a vast territory, and the temperature in different locations is also different. For example, the temperature in Denali National Park is lower than that in Anchorage.
In many places in Alaska, there is a large temperature difference between morning and evening. In summer, the nighttime temperature is generally around 5-10 degrees Celsius, and the daytime temperature can reach 19-24 degrees Celsius.
Q4. What interesting cities are there in Alaska?
Fairbanks (Fairbanks): In the middle of Alaska, it is a good place to see the aurora in winter.
Anchorage, Talkeetna, Seward, Homer: Located in the south of Alaska, it is a good place to see glaciers and animals in summer. In winter, Here you can also feel the beautiful scene of snow and ice.
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