Tips For Planning An Alaskan Vacation

Planning an Alaskan vacation can be overwhelming. There’s so much to see and do that it’s difficult to know where to start. The key is to start by carving out your main interests and then build a trip around them. This way, you can make sure your time in Alaska is spent seeing and doing the things that are most important to you, whether it’s an Alaskan fishing charter or a scenic hike!

Things To Do

If you’re planning an Alaskan vacation, you’ll want to pack some fun activities into your itinerary. The state’s rugged landscape, wide-open spaces, great local shops and restaurants, rail routes, highways and affectionate people all add up to make it a very special place. Whether you’re looking to go on a hike, take part in an adventure activity or simply enjoy a beautiful landscape, there’s plenty of things to do in Alaska. One of the best ways to experience Alaska’s natural beauty is to head on a tour of a glacier. You can hike or ride a tram to the edge of Alyeska Glacier in Girdwood and learn about the history of this natural wonder. Other popular tours include Alaskan fishing tours, kayaking Exit Glacier and heli hiking Bear Glacier. Another must-do activity during your Alaskan vacation is watching for the aurora borealis, which is a spectacular display of the sky’s lights. It’s possible to witness about 200 such displays a year, so be sure to set aside some time to watch for them. And when you’re finished admiring the northern lights, head to the Aurora Ice Museum for a look at incredible ice sculptures. The sculptures will definitely give you a new appreciation of the beauty of the Alaskan winter wonderland.

Fairbanks

Fairbanks is a beautiful city that offers mountain ranges, flowing rivers and sparkling lakes, amazing wildlife and lots of interesting history and museums. It’s also one of the best places to see the magical Northern Lights! The University of Alaska Museum of the North is a great place to learn about the area’s fascinating history, culture and natural surroundings. There’s a range of exciting exhibits to explore, from ancient Eskimo ivory carvings to a real-life mummified bison. You can also book a tour of the Chena Hot Springs Resort, which features a spectacular ice bar and has a unique location that makes it a prime spot for northern lights viewing. Another great thing to do in Fairbanks is to visit Pioneer Park, which feels like you’ve stepped back in time. This extensive outdoor complex alongside the Chena River features a mock gold rush town, authentic log cabins and lots of displays of pioneering life in Alaska.

Anchorage

If you’re planning to visit Alaska, there are plenty of things to do in Anchorage. There’s a mix of tourist attractions and underrated local hangouts that you’ll want to make time for. For starters, there’s the Anchorage Museum, which features art and history galleries dedicated to Alaska’s culture and heritage. It’s a must-see for anyone who wants to learn about the state’s history, wildlife, and culture. There’s also the Alaska Native Heritage Center, a themed village that introduces visitors to natives’ traditional lifestyles. During the winter, 4th Avenue is a hot spot for fur-related activities and events, including the ceremonial start of the Iditarod. It’s a great place to find souvenirs, gift shops, and kitschy clothing stores. Another place to stop is the log cabin visitor information center, which serves as a helpful resource for tourists. You’ll get directions to local attractions as well as maps, guidebooks, and more! Contact us to book your first fun event in Alaska with Phantom Tri-River Charters!