Are you dreaming of breathtaking landscapes, towering glaciers, and abundant wildlife? Alaska is a must-see destination, offering some of the most stunning natural beauty in the world. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, nature lover, or simply someone looking for an unforgettable escape, this guide to the best places to visit in Alaska will inspire your next journey.
As the largest state in the U.S., Alaska is a vast wilderness brimming with incredible destinations. From the serene Inside Passage to the rugged Arctic tundra, each region offers a unique experience. You’ll find everything from vibrant cities to pristine national parks, vast forests, dramatic fjords, and towering mountain ranges.
In this post, we’ll take you through 10 of the most remarkable places in Alaska that you should visit in 2026. While it’s impossible to see everything in one trip, these locations will give you a taste of what makes Alaska so extraordinary.
1. Anchorage
Anchorage is the perfect starting point for your Alaskan adventure. As the largest city in the state, it offers a unique mix of urban life and access to the wilderness. Situated between the snow-capped peaks of the Chugach Mountains and the waters of Cook Inlet, Anchorage is surrounded by natural beauty, yet offers all the amenities of a modern city.
Here, you can explore the Anchorage Museum, which dives into the region’s history and culture, or take a walk along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail for stunning views of the in let and the surrounding mountains.
Anchorage also serves as a gateway for outdoor activities such as hiking, wildlife viewing, and kayaking, all just a short drive or bike ride from the city center.
For those who want a closer look at Alaska’s wildlife, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is just a short trip away, where you can get up close with bears, moose, and bison. Whether you’re looking for adventure or a relaxing stay surrounded by majestic landscapes, Anchorage is a must-visit destination to start your Alaskan journey.
2. Denali National Park and Preserve
If you only visit one place in Alaska, Denali National Park and Preserve should be at the top of your list. This massive wilderness spans around six million acres of untouched land and is home to North America’s tallest peak, Denali, rising over 20,300 ft above sea level, an absolute bucket‑list sight for travelers from around the world.
Source: Denali is one of the best places to visit in Alaska
What makes Denali truly special isn’t just the mountain (though that alone is worth the trip, it’s the raw Alaskan wilderness. You’ll find endless tundra, dense spruce forests, crystal lakes, and glaciers stretching as far as the eye can see.
Wildlife here lives wild and free, so keep your eyes open for grizzly bears, moose, caribou, wolves, and Dall sheep wandering through the landscape.
There’s just one main road that cuts through the park, and beyond the first section, private cars aren’t allowed , which keeps the backcountry peaceful and pristine. Most visitors explore the deeper parts of the park on shuttle buses or guided tours, where spotting wildlife and soaking in mountain views is a highlight.
Whether you’re into hiking scenic trails, taking flightseeing tours, watching wildlife, or just gazing at that iconic snow‑capped peak, Denali offers a true Alaskan adventure you’ll never forget.
This is one destination that completely captures the wild heart of Alaska and it’s one you’ll be talking about long after your trip ends.
3. Kaktovik
For a truly unique Alaskan experience, head to Kaktovik, a remote village located on Barter Island in the Arctic region of Alaska. This small Inupiat community is one of the best places to witness polar bears in their natural habitat, especially during the fall months when they migrate to the area to hunt for seals along the coast. It’s an unforgettable opportunity to see these magnificent creatures up close in the wild.
Kaktovik is one of the best places to see polar bears
Aside from its polar bear population, Kaktovik is also a place to experience the Arctic’s pristine wilderness, with stunning landscapes of tundra, icebergs, and the ever-changing northern skies. The village itself offers a glimpse into the Inupiat culture and traditional life in the Arctic. Visitors can learn about local customs, crafts, and subsistence hunting practices that have been part of life here for generations.
The best way to visit Kaktovik is through guided polar bear tours or wildlife expeditions. These tours will take you safely out into the tundra, offering opportunities to photograph polar bears and other wildlife, as well as explore the stunning Arctic environment. While it’s remote and not as accessible as other Alaskan destinations, Kaktovik offers a truly unique and unforgettable Arctic experience for those looking to explore one of the last true frontiers.
Located in the heart of Alaska’s interior, Fairbanks is a fantastic destination for those seeking adventure, culture, and an authentic Alaskan experience. Known as the “Golden Heart of Alaska,” this city offers visitors a chance to explore both the rugged wilderness and rich history of the region. Fairbanks is especially popular for its prime location beneath the aurora oval, making it one of the best places in the world to see the spectacular Northern Lights.
No visit to Alaska’s interior is complete without a trip to Fairbanks
Fairbanks is an ideal base for exploring the surrounding areas. You can take a scenic drive to the nearby Chena Hot Springs to relax in natural thermal pools surrounded by snow-capped mountains, or venture into the wild to explore the vast Denali Highway. Outdoor enthusiasts will also enjoy activities like hiking, fishing, and dog sledding during the summer months, while the winter brings opportunities for snowmobiling, ice fishing, and cross-country skiing.
In addition to its natural beauty, Fairbanks is a hub for Alaskan history and culture. The University of Alaska Fairbanks is home to several museums, including the renowned Museum of the North, which offers exhibits on Alaskan wildlife, history, and art. You can also step back in time at the historic Pioneer Park, a 44-acre park showcasing early Alaskan buildings and artifacts, providing a glimpse into the lives of those who helped shape the state’s history.
For those who want a truly unforgettable experience, you can take a ride on the Alaska Railroad, which departs from Fairbanks and travels through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the state. Whether you’re soaking in hot springs, learning about Alaska’s past, or marveling at the Northern Lights, Fairbanks is a destination that captures the essence of Alaska’s wilderness and spirit.
5. Ketchikan
Nestled along the southeastern coast of Alaska, Ketchikan is a charming waterfront town that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Often referred to as the “Salmon Capital of the World,” Ketchikan is famous for its abundant fishing opportunities, stunning coastal landscapes, and rich Native Alaskan heritage. This picturesque town is an ideal destination for those who want to experience the essence of Alaska’s Inside Passage.
One of Ketchikan’s most notable attractions is its historic downtown, where you can stroll through quaint streets lined with colorful buildings, shops, and galleries. The town is also home to the Tongass National Forest, the largest national forest in the United States, which offers countless opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring pristine wilderness.
Ketchikan is perhaps best known for its connection to Alaska’s Native culture, particularly the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples. Visitors can explore this rich heritage at the Totem Bight State Historical Park, where you can see intricately carved totem poles and learn about the area’s indigenous history. The Tongass Historical Museum offers further insights into the area’s past, showcasing exhibits about early Native cultures, European settlers, and the town’s bustling fishing industry.
If you’re interested in wildlife, Ketchikan is a great place to spot eagles, sea otters, seals, and even humpback whales during the summer months. The nearby Misty Fjords National Monument is a must-see for nature lovers, with its towering cliffs, pristine lakes, and breathtaking landscapes that are best explored by boat or floatplane.
Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in local culture, explore the wilderness, or simply relax by the water, Ketchikan offers a perfect slice of Alaskan life. Its blend of history, outdoor adventures, and picturesque surroundings make it one of the top destinations in Alaska’s Inside Passage.
6. Fjords National Park
Located on the Kenai Peninsula, Kenai Fjords National Park is one of Alaska’s most stunning natural treasures, offering visitors a spectacular mix of glaciers, rugged coastlines, and abundant wildlife. This park is a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts who want to experience the grandeur of Alaska’s fjords and glaciers up close.
The park is home to the Harding Icefield, which feeds several spectacular glaciers that spill into the sea. These glaciers, some of which are accessible by boat, provide visitors with an awe-inspiring sight as they carve their way through the rugged landscape. One of the most popular ways to experience the park is by taking a boat tour, which allows visitors to see glaciers calving into the waters below, with massive ice chunks crashing into the ocean. These tours also offer opportunities to spot marine life such as sea otters, harbor seals, humpback whales, orcas, and sea birds like puffins.
For those who prefer to explore on foot, the park offers numerous hiking trails, ranging from easy coastal walks to more challenging treks into the heart of the Harding Icefield. The hike to the icefield itself is one of the park’s most iconic trails, providing stunning panoramic views of the surrounding glaciers and the coast.
Wildlife enthusiasts will also appreciate the abundance of animals in the park. The waters around Kenai Fjords are teeming with marine life, while the surrounding forests and tundra are home to bears, moose, mountain goats, and wolves. Birdwatchers will delight in the many seabirds that populate the area, including bald eagles and puffins.
Kenai Fjords National Park is also accessible by the town of Seward, making it an easy addition to any Alaskan adventure. Whether you’re looking for a scenic boat ride, an epic hike, or a chance to witness the power of nature through calving glaciers, Kenai Fjords offers some of the most breathtaking views and wildlife experiences in all of Alaska. It’s a true testament to the raw beauty and wild spirit of the Last Frontier.
7. Kodiak
Kodiak, often referred to as the “Emerald Isle” for its lush landscapes and natural beauty, is an island located in the Gulf of Alaska, south of the mainland. This remote and rugged destination is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and those looking for an off-the-beaten-path Alaskan experience. Kodiak offers a unique blend of breathtaking scenery, rich history, and incredible wildlife, making it one of Alaska’s must-visit destinations.
Kodiak Bears are a subspecies of the brown bear
The island is perhaps most famous for its massive Kodiak brown bears, which are among the largest bears in the world. Wildlife lovers can embark on guided bear viewing tours to safely witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. The island’s diverse ecosystem also supports an abundance of other wildlife, including sea otters, seals, and numerous seabird species. The waters surrounding Kodiak are home to thriving marine life, including humpback whales and orcas, making it an excellent location for whale watching and boat tours.
Kodiak’s natural beauty is not limited to its wildlife. The island boasts an impressive array of outdoor activities, from hiking through lush rainforests to fishing in its pristine rivers and lakes. Kodiak is a popular destination for anglers, particularly those looking to catch king salmon, halibut, and other Pacific fish. If you’re an avid fisherman, Kodiak’s world-class fishing opportunities are not to be missed.
For history buffs, Kodiak offers a glimpse into Alaska’s past. The town of Kodiak is home to the Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center and the Alutiiq Museum, which provides fascinating insights into the island’s Native Alutiiq culture and the history of Russian exploration and colonization in Alaska. The island’s Russian Orthodox heritage is still visible in places like the Holy Resurrection Russian Orthodox Church, a historic landmark built in 1794.
Kodiak’s remote location and pristine landscapes also offer the perfect setting for those seeking solitude and a chance to connect with nature. Whether you’re hiking along the island’s dramatic coastline, kayaking in crystal-clear waters, or watching a brown bear roam the wild tundra, Kodiak offers an unforgettable Alaskan adventure that’s as rugged as it is beautiful. For a true escape into the wild, Kodiak is one of Alaska’s hidden gems.
8. Skagway
Nestled in the scenic Lynn Canal, Skagway is a small yet historically significant town in Southeast Alaska, making it a must-visit stop for anyone traveling the Inside Passage. Known for its Gold Rush history, breathtaking natural landscapes, and charming small-town atmosphere, Skagway offers visitors a unique glimpse into Alaska’s past, along with a host of outdoor adventures.
Skagway’s claim to fame is its role in the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 1800s. The town served as a primary gateway for gold prospectors traveling to the goldfields of the Yukon.
Today, Skagway’s historic district is a designated National Historic Landmark, where visitors can explore preserved buildings from the Gold Rush era, such as the famous White Pass and Yukon Route Railway Depot and the historic Red Onion Saloon.
For those interested in learning more about the area’s fascinating past, the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park provides a wealth of exhibits, guided tours, and programs that highlight the hardships and triumphs of the gold miners who once passed through here.
Beyond its history, Skagway is a gateway to some of Alaska’s most dramatic wilderness. One of the top attractions in Skagway is the White Pass and Yukon Route Railway, a stunning train ride that takes visitors through rugged mountain landscapes, past waterfalls, glaciers, and steep cliffs, offering unforgettable views of the surrounding scenery. This scenic route is especially popular during the summer months when wildflowers bloom, and snow-capped peaks create a picturesque backdrop.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do in Skagway, whether it’s hiking the scenic trails surrounding the town, kayaking in the pristine waters, or exploring the nearby glaciers. Popular hiking trails include the Lower Dewey Lake Trail, which offers panoramic views of Skagway and the surrounding mountains, and the strenuous but rewarding Upper Dewey Lake Trail, which leads to a stunning alpine lake.
Skagway also offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, with sightings of eagles, bears, moose, and other Alaskan wildlife not uncommon in the area. The surrounding wilderness is home to numerous species of birds and marine life, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and photographers.
Whether you’re drawn to Skagway’s rich history, stunning landscapes, or outdoor adventures, this charming town is a fantastic place to experience the heart of Alaska’s Gold Rush legacy while soaking in the natural beauty that surrounds it. With its small-town charm and dramatic surroundings, Skagway is a highlight for many visitors to Alaska’s Inside Passage.
9. Seward
Located on the southern coast of Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula, Seward is a picturesque town that offers a mix of outdoor adventures, stunning natural beauty, and rich maritime history. As one of Alaska’s top destinations, Seward serves as a gateway to some of the state’s most breathtaking landscapes, including the stunning Kenai Fjords National Park, making it an essential stop for anyone visiting the region.
Source: Seward is an amazing place to try your hand at fishing
One of the main attractions in Seward is Kenai Fjords National Park, just a short distance away. This park is famous for its dramatic glaciers, including the Exit Glacier, which is easily accessible for hiking and offers visitors the chance to get up close to the ice. For a more immersive experience, boat tours from Seward take visitors through the fjords, where they can see calving glaciers, towering cliffs, and abundant wildlife, including whales, sea otters, harbor seals, and a variety of seabirds. It’s an incredible way to experience Alaska’s pristine wilderness.
Seward is also known for its opportunities to observe wildlife, both on land and at sea. The waters around Seward are teeming with marine life, and the town is a prime spot for whale watching. Humpback whales, orcas, and gray whales are frequently spotted in the area, and sea kayaking allows visitors to experience the coastal waters from a more intimate perspective. On land, visitors can enjoy hiking trails that offer scenic views of Seward’s surrounding mountains, including the Mount Marathon Trail, a challenging hike that provides panoramic views of the town and Resurrection Bay.
The town of Seward itself has a charming harborfront that is home to various shops, seafood restaurants, and the Alaska SeaLife Center, which is dedicated to the preservation and rehabilitation of marine animals. Here, visitors can see sea otters, puffins, and other marine life up close while learning about Alaska’s rich ocean ecosystem.
For those interested in fishing, Seward is known for world-class fishing opportunities, particularly for halibut and salmon. Whether you choose to go on a guided fishing charter or cast a line from the shore, Seward offers some of the best fishing experiences in the state.
Seward’s combination of rich history, outdoor recreation, and close proximity to one of Alaska’s most beautiful national parks makes it a fantastic destination for anyone looking to explore the Last Frontier. Whether you’re hiking, kayaking, whale watching, or simply taking in the breathtaking views, Seward offers an unforgettable Alaskan adventure.
10. Valdez
Located at the head of Prince William Sound, Valdez is a small but picturesque town in Alaska known for its dramatic landscapes, outdoor adventures, and rich history. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and glaciers, Valdez offers some of the most stunning scenery in the state, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
One of Valdez’s biggest draws is its proximity to Prince William Sound, an area renowned for its pristine waters, dramatic fjords, and numerous glaciers. The Columbia Glacier, one of the largest tidewater glaciers in the world, is a highlight for visitors who embark on boat tours from Valdez. These tours offer a close-up view of the glacier as it calves huge chunks of ice into the bay, and guests often have the chance to see wildlife such as sea otters, harbor seals, and humpback whales.
Valdez is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The surrounding mountains offer excellent hiking, with trails ranging from easy walks to more challenging ascents. Popular hikes include the Gold Mint Trail and Valdez Glacier Trail, which offer stunning views of the landscape, including glaciers, rivers, and alpine meadows. The area is also famous for its opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
For those interested in winter sports, Valdez is known as a premier destination for backcountry skiing and snowboarding. The town is surrounded by some of the most rugged and snow-covered mountains in Alaska, making it an ideal location for off-the-beaten-path skiing experiences. The Chugach Mountains receive heavy snowfall, and Valdez’s remote location provides skiers and snowboarders with access to some of the best powder conditions in the world.
Valdez has a rich history, particularly related to the oil industry. The town is a key port for the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System, which delivers oil from the North Slope of Alaska to the southern coast. Visitors can learn about the history of the pipeline and its impact on the area at the Valdez Museum and Historical Archive, which features exhibits on the region’s history, including its role in the oil spill disaster of 1989.
Additionally, Valdez is home to a charming harborfront, with seafood restaurants serving fresh catches and shops offering local arts and crafts. The town also hosts several events throughout the year, including the Valdez Ice Climbing Festival and the World Ice Art Championships, which celebrate the town’s natural beauty and its outdoor spirit.
Whether you’re exploring glaciers, hiking through stunning landscapes, skiing in world-class powder, or immersing yourself in the town’s rich history, Valdez offers a unique and unforgettable Alaskan experience. With its striking natural beauty and array of outdoor activities, Valdez is a hidden gem in the Last Frontier, perfect for those seeking adventure in one of the most beautiful corners of Alaska.
I hope you enjoyed my guide to the best places to visit in Alaska. If you have any comments or suggestions of amazing places to visit in Alaska that you think I have missed, please comment below!
