Visiting Alaska had always been a dream of mine. I’d seen photos of the snowy mountains, huge glaciers, and the northern lights, but nothing compares to seeing it all in person. When I finally got the chance to explore this incredible state, I knew I was in for an adventure.
Alaska is unlike anywhere else I’ve ever been. It’s wild, wide open, and full of surprises. One day I was watching a moose cross the road, and the next, I was cruising past massive glaciers that cracked and splashed into the ocean. Whether you love the outdoors, wildlife, or just want to experience something new, Alaska has it all.
In this article, I’ll share the top things to do in Alaska based on my own trip. From chasing the northern lights to riding a dog sled, every moment felt like a once-in-a-lifetime experience. If you’re thinking about visiting Alaska, these ideas will help you make the most of your journey.
See the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis)
One of the most magical things I did in Alaska was watching the Northern Lights, also called the Aurora Borealis. I had seen pictures before, but nothing prepared me for the real thing — colorful lights dancing across the dark night sky.
I learned that the best time to see the Northern Lights is during the winter months, especially from September to April, and places like Fairbanks are famous for clear views. I stayed up late one night, wrapped in warm clothes, and waited patiently. When the lights finally appeared, glowing green and sometimes purple, it felt like the sky was putting on a private show just for me.
If you’re planning a trip to Alaska, don’t miss the chance to see this natural wonder. It’s an unforgettable experience that really shows how special Alaska’s wilderness is.
Explore Denali National Park
Visiting Denali National Park was one of the highlights of my Alaska trip. It’s home to Denali, the tallest mountain in North America, and the scenery there is absolutely breathtaking.
I took a bus tour deep into the park, which was the best way to spot wildlife like moose, bears, and caribou. The guides shared interesting stories about the animals and the park’s history, which made the ride even better. I also went on a few short hikes to get closer to nature — the trails are peaceful, and the views of the mountain and surrounding wilderness are unforgettable.
Denali National Park gave me a real sense of Alaska’s wild beauty. If you love nature and adventure, it’s a must-visit spot on your Alaska trip.
Take a Glacier Cruise
One of the coolest experiences I had in Alaska was taking a glacier cruise. Seeing huge glaciers up close from a boat was absolutely amazing. The icy blue walls towering over the water made me feel like I was in another world.
I chose a cruise in the Kenai Fjords National Park, where I also spotted whales, seals, and sea birds along the way. At one point, I even saw a glacier calve — that’s when chunks of ice break off and crash into the water. It was loud and exciting, something I won’t forget.
If you want to explore Alaska’s coastline and see glaciers without hiking or climbing, a cruise is the perfect choice. It’s relaxing, beautiful, and full of wildlife sightings.
Visit Anchorage
Anchorage was my first stop when I arrived in Alaska, and it surprised me with how lively and welcoming it felt. As the state’s largest city, Anchorage offers a nice mix of city life and easy access to nature.
I enjoyed walking around downtown, checking out local shops, cafes, and museums like the Anchorage Museum, which gave me a great introduction to Alaska’s history and culture. The city also has beautiful parks and trails right nearby — I even took a short hike on the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, which offers stunning views of the ocean and mountains.
Anchorage is a great base for exploring Alaska. Whether you want city comforts or outdoor adventures, this city has something for everyone.
Go Dog Sledding
One of the most exciting things I did in Alaska was dog sledding. I had seen it in movies but experiencing it myself was on a whole different level. The dogs were so energetic and ready to run, and I loved learning how mushers train and care for their teams.
Even if you visit in summer, some places offer dog sled rides on glaciers using special sleds with wheels or on snow if there’s enough. I got to hold the reins and feel the power of the dogs as they pulled the sled through the snowy trails. It was thrilling and gave me a true taste of Alaska’s adventurous spirit.
If you want a unique, hands-on experience in Alaska, dog sledding is a must. It’s fun, fast, and full of unforgettable moments.
Fly Over Mountains and Glaciers
One of the most unforgettable experiences I had in Alaska was taking a flightseeing tour over the mountains and glaciers. Getting up close to Alaska’s vast wilderness from the air gave me a totally new perspective.
I hopped into a small plane and soared over snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and massive glaciers that stretched as far as the eye could see. Seeing glaciers like Matanuska or Knik Glacier from above was breathtaking — the icy blue cracks and rivers looked like something out of a painting.
The pilot even flew low enough for me to spot wildlife and take photos through the window. Flying over Alaska’s wild landscape made me appreciate just how big and beautiful this state really is.
Visit Juneau and Mendenhall Glacier
Visiting Juneau, Alaska’s capital, was a special part of my trip. Even though it’s a city, Juneau feels connected to nature with mountains all around and the ocean right at its doorstep.
One of my favorite spots near Juneau was Mendenhall Glacier. It’s easy to reach and offers beautiful views from several trails. I took a hike to the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, where I learned about how glaciers form and change over time. The turquoise ice and the sounds of cracking ice made it feel like a real wilderness adventure.
While in Juneau, I also enjoyed fresh seafood and explored the local shops. It’s a small city with a lot of charm and a perfect base for exploring Southeast Alaska.
Try Fishing or Join a Fishing Tour
Fishing is a big part of Alaska’s culture, and I wanted to experience it firsthand. Whether you’re an expert or a beginner like me, there are plenty of fishing tours that make it easy and fun to catch some of Alaska’s famous fish.
I joined a fishing tour and went out on a boat early in the morning. The fresh air and calm waters made it peaceful, but the excitement kicked in when I felt a strong tug on my line. I managed to catch salmon, and it was thrilling to see how big and powerful these fish really are.
Besides catching fish, I enjoyed hearing stories from the local guides about the best fishing spots and the importance of fishing to Alaska’s way of life. If you want an authentic Alaskan experience, fishing is a great way to connect with nature and local culture.
Learn Native Alaskan Culture
One of the most meaningful parts of my Alaska trip was learning about Native Alaskan culture. Alaska is home to many indigenous groups, each with rich traditions, stories, and art that have been passed down for generations.
I visited cultural centers and museums where I saw beautiful native artwork, listened to traditional music, and watched dancers perform. It was incredible to hear the stories behind the art and learn how the Native people live in harmony with Alaska’s wild environment.
Meeting Native Alaskans and hearing their perspectives gave me a deeper understanding of the state’s history and culture. If you visit Alaska, take time to explore this side of the state—it adds a powerful and personal layer to your adventure.
Take a Scenic Train Ride
One of the most relaxing ways I experienced Alaska’s beauty was by taking a scenic train ride on the Alaska Railroad. Sitting by the window, I watched the stunning landscapes roll by — towering mountains, rushing rivers, and vast forests.
The train took me between cities like Anchorage and Seward, giving me a chance to see parts of Alaska that are hard to reach by car. It was peaceful and comfortable, and the views were simply incredible.
Riding the Alaska Railroad felt like stepping back in time while still enjoying modern comforts. If you want to slow down and soak in the scenery, this train ride is a perfect choice.
Conclusion
My trip to Alaska was full of amazing adventures and unforgettable moments. From chasing the glowing Northern Lights to cruising past massive glaciers and learning about native culture, every experience showed me a different side of this incredible state.
Alaska’s vast wilderness, friendly people, and unique activities make it a place unlike any other. Whether you love nature, history, or just want to try something new, Alaska has something for everyone.
If you’re thinking about your next travel destination, I highly recommend visiting Alaska. It’s a place that stays with you long after you leave, and I can’t wait to go back and explore even more.
