Why Should I Visit Alaska In The Summer?

Summer in Alaska means warm weather and long days, so visitors can spend more time appreciating the state’s towering mountains, pristine lakes and rivers, plunging valleys, and mysterious forests. Alaska summer vacation packages also mean unbelievable sightseeing, thrilling outdoor adventures, and lots of opportunities for wildlife observation! We’ll help you plan the best Alaska summer vacation adventure – just keep reading for tips on the best places to visit in Alaska in summer.

Choose Your Own Adventure In Alaska!

Although physically separated from the rest of the United States, Alaska is one of the most scenic and fascinating parts of the country. Its remote location and incredible backcountry only add to the beauty and mystery of the 49^th state, making it an appealing getaway spot for adventurous travelers and nature lovers alike. Major cities like Anchorage are a great starting point for your adventure but don’t forget to include the natural landmarks and attractions that make Alaska so unique. Here is a list of the best places to visit Alaska in the summer:

• Ketckikan – if you are exploring Alaska by ship, this city is the first stop you will make. Ketchikan lies at the southern end of Alaska’s Inside Passage and serves as a gateway to natural attractions such as Misty Fjords National Monument, Annette Island, and Prince of Wales Island. The town features the world’s largest collection of standing totem poles, as well as plenty of local museums, waterfalls, and guided tours through Tongass National Forest for visitors to enjoy.
• Fairbanks – the best Alaska summer vacation packages start in Fairbanks! The city is the largest city in Alaska’s interior and sits along the scenic Chena River. Travelers can book excursions by plane to see the Arctic Circle, the Brooks Mountain Range, and the Arctic Ocean or stay local to explore the city’s many museums and cultural attractions. Rent a car and explore the nearby Chena River State Recreation Area or visit the Aurora Ice Museum to see the fabulous ice sculptures that are housed within.
• Sitka – this historic city in Southern Alaska is known for its unique Russian Heritage. But it is also home to the Alaska Raptor Center, a rehabilitation facility that aids wounded and sick raptors, to view majestic local birds such as bald eagles, golden eagles, falcons, hawks, and owls. Another popular local attraction is the Fortress of the Bear, which is a facility for orphaned bears. Visitors can learn about the traditional lifestyle and culture of the Tingit tribe who originally settled in the area.
• Anchorage – one of the best places to visit in Alaska in summer is Anchorage! Anchorage is Alaska’s largest city, sitting at the northern end of Cook Inlet with the Chugach Mountains in the background. Start your vacation in Anchorage by visiting the Anchorage Museum of History and Art, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, or the Alaska Native Heritage Center. Then, drive along the Seward Highway to Potter’s Marsh for incredible bird watching or set off on a hike along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. You can also book a tour to Katmai National Park and Preserve from Anchorage to view the phenomenal bears of Brooks Falls during the summer salmon runs.
• Juneau – the capital city of Alaska is Juneau, which serves as a major port for cruise ships coming through the area. Start your visit to this incredible town with a trip to the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center. The center features in-depth exhibits about the Mendenhall Glacier, an amazing 13-mile river of ice, and trails that take you to observation points for viewing the glacier itself. Explore nearby waterfalls, a verdant rainforest, and local wildlife such as bears and bald eagles during your time in the city. Take the Mount Roberts Tramway to a tower where you have a panoramic view of Juneau and the surrounding mountains and waterways. Or, take a whale-watching trip through the Inside Passage to observe humpback whales, orcas, and dolphins. The town is busy during the summer with annual summer events such as Gold Rush Days and the Golden North Salmon Derby. This town is a must-see addition to any Alaska summer vacation package!
• Kenai – if you want to try your hand at fishing during your trip to Alaska, Kenai is the perfect place to live out your adventure on the high seas! Set on the Kenai Peninsula, the town gives avid fishermen easy access to both Cook Inlet and the Kenai River. Kenai is famous for its salmon fishing as well as for its whale-watching tours that guarantee visitors a look at Beluga whales.
• Kodiak – the city of Kodiak is located on the east side of Kodiak Island, a large island in the Gulf of Alaska. Popular tourist activities include bear viewing and fishing, or watching the local brown bear population fish for salmon in the nearby waterways. Visitors can learn fascinating facts about local ecology at the Kodiak National Wildlife Interpretive Center or explore the history of the town at The Baranov Museum.
• Seward - the city of Seward lies on the eastern side of the Kenai Peninsula in south-central Alaska. It’s a jumping-off point for a visit to Kenai Fjords National Park and forests that are full of wildlife-viewing opportunities See brown bears, black bears, moose, mountain goats, and otters in their natural habitat. Or, paddle a rented kayak along the coastline while enjoying the beautiful surroundings. Summer events include the Seward Halibut Tournament and the Seward Silver Salmon Derby, a must for anyone looking for activities to add to the best Alaska summer vacation itinerary!
• Healy – this little town is located at the northeast corner of Denali National Park and Preserve, and serves as a gateway to the park. Home to the iconic and towering peak of Denali, which is the country’s highest mountain, Denali National Park is a protected wilderness area where visitors can see all kinds of wildlife. Spot bears, moose, wolves, and more while walking along the Savage River, admiring the stillness of Wonder Lake, or hiking through Polychrome Pass. Popular tourist activities include hiking, whitewater rafting, and back-country camping, but visitors can also opt for comfortable bus tours through the park. Short, ranger-led trail walks are available from the Denali Visitor Center, where informative and educational exhibits regale visitors with the park’s incredible history.

A Summer Adventure To Remember

Alaska is full of incredible places to see, so picking the best places to visit in Alaska in summer can be challenging. But no matter what stops you have planned for your Alaska summer vacation package, you can be confident that you will enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. So, get packing – an adventure under the Midnight Sun awaits!