The Great, Wild North: 9 Absolutely Incredible Places to Visit in Alaska

Aurora Borealis in Alaska

More than 2 million people from around the world visited Alaska in 2018.

You can see the Northern Lights, beautiful mountains, and endless wildlife.

Depending on where you want to go, there may be certain times of the year that are best for your destination.

Continue reading to discover the best places to visit in Alaska for your next trip!

1. Kroschel Wildlife Center

If you are looking for a fun place to visit in Alaska that will introduce you to the wildlife, the Kroschel center is the place to go.

Just outside of Haines, Alaska, you can go to the filmmakers’ Steve Kroschel’s wildlife center where he takes care of orphaned animals. This is not at all like your ordinary zoo trip, instead, you will be seeing animals in their natural habitats.

You can see wolves, grizzly bears, reindeer, and more in this center.

2. Museum of the North

Traveling to Alaska can feel like you are discovering an entirely separate country.

The Museum of the North is the perfect place to visit if you want to see more of Alaska. In this museum, you will be exposed to the history of its’ people, wildlife, and culture. Going here can help give you insight as to how Eskimos lived and worked around their conditions.

If you want to see a lot of gold, this museum has the largest display. You can also see bison mummies from the Ice Age and displays you never dreamt of.

3. Husky Homestead

Do you and your family love being around dogs and discovering more about Alaskan history?

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Husky Homestead is a unique location home to sleddogs and good stories. You can learn more about sled races from champions and play with dogs. This place may seem like a puppy wonderland but it also includes stories about the hardships and setbacks people had to work through.

4. Yukon

One of the best places to visit in Alaska is the Yukon Railway. You can take the White Pass and Yukon Route Railway from Skagway to Whitehorse.

This will be an unforgettable trip by yourself or family. You will be safe inside of a train that travels through mountains with beautiful scenes. These railways were once used for mining during the Gold Rush. On this ride, you will see dozens of waterfalls, forests, and gorges.

5. Fairbanks

Fairbanks, Alaska is home to the Aurora Ice Museum that is open year-round.

This museum is made of ice and snow and is always kept at below-freezing temperatures. You can see the Northern Lights dancing around in Fairbanks as well. This is the perfect destination for special events and weddings.

You will have unimaginable views in this town. Check out these cruises to find one that includes this stop. You won’t regret it!

6. Sitka Historic Park

In the early 1800s, there was a cultural battle between Russia and the indigenous people of Tlingit.

This historic park was the battleground. It preserves Totem poles and coastal trail lines. where people fought with hammers. You can learn more about this history and the clan leader Katlian at the visitors’ center.

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Going to this park can give you insight as to how the Russians lived and created architectural structures. Wildlife park rangers and scientists are in charge of this land documenting its history.

7. Denali National Park

If you and your family love to explore, the Denali National Park is a great place to visit.

You can stop by the tourist center for a quick bite of food and shopping before heading out to the hiking trails. You can see wildlife in its natural habitat and walk around magnificent mountains.

Denali National Park rangers are available to ask questions to and learn more about the exhibits. Don’t be afraid to ask them for guidance or help!

One of the best ways to see everything this park has to offer is by taking the Talkeetna air taxi that takes you up in a helicopter.

8. Portage

Have you ever wanted to see a heard of bison? Well, in Portage, Alaska, you can!

Portage is home to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation center that is used for taking care of orphaned animals. These animals are later released back into the wild after they have either healed or become strong enough to live on their own.

The summertime is the best for this activity in Alaska. During this time you can attend a feeding session and watch wildlife in action. In Portage, you can also see a glacier and impressive ski area.

9. Juneau

If you and your family are looking to see rainforests and whales, Juneau is the place to go!

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You and visit the Juneau whale watch to see a humpback whale, sea lions, and black bears. Going on a whale watching tour can take up to 5 hours and is full of different stops. Don’t be surprised if the orca whales make an appearance.

One of the best parts about this trip is that the captain turns off the boat so that the whale will come close and not be afraid of engine noises. Don’t forget your camera on this trip.

All of the Best Places to Visit in Alaska

Utilizing this guide can help you identify the places to visit in Alaska for your family vacation.

Alaska is known for many things. Its’ wildlife and mountains are impressive. Depending on where you go, you can see the Northern Lights and even orca whales. Thinking outside of the box and exploring Alaska can be a great way to bring you and your family together.

Take pictures and have fun while you discover nature’s most beautiful creations.

Be sure to check out our blog for more articles with the best destinations to travel to. Along with how to better pack and prepare!