This annual event takes place in the small town of Valdez and is a celebration of the fishing industry that is so important to the community. Visitors can watch as the boats are blessed, and there is also a parade and other festivities.
Alaska is a vast and beautiful state, known for its rugged wilderness and abundant wildlife. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or just looking for a unique vacation destination, there are plenty of places to explore in Alaska. Here are five must-see places to visit in the Last Frontier:
Know Your Alaska
Time: GMT -900 hrs (-1000 hrs)
Languages: English, Alaska Native languages
Currency: USD
Visa: US visa rules apply according to the nationality of the visitor
Weather: 45 to 75 °F (7 to 24 °C) in summer and about 20 to −10 °F (−7 to −23 °C) in winter
Best time to visit: May – September
Places to Visit in Alaska
Denali National Park and Preserve
Home to North America's highest peak, Mount Denali (formerly known as Mount McKinley), Denali National Park is a natural wonderland. The park offers visitors a chance to see majestic mountain vistas, glaciers, and abundant wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolves, and caribou. Visitors can take a bus tour into the park, hike on one of the many trails, or even go backpacking or mountaineering.
Juneau
Alaska's capital city is a unique destination that combines urban amenities with stunning natural beauty. Visitors can explore the city's historic downtown, take a tour of the state capitol building, or go on a whale-watching excursion. Juneau is also a great place to experience Alaska's rich cultural heritage, with many opportunities to learn about the Tlingit people and the indigenous inhabitants of Southeast Alaska.
Kenai Fjords National Park
This park, located on the Kenai Peninsula, offers visitors the chance to see some of Alaska's most spectacular fjords, glaciers, and wildlife. Visitors can take a boat tour to see the fjords, hike on the park's many trails, or go sea kayaking or fishing. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including orcas, sea lions, and puffins.
Ketchikan
Ketchikan is a charming coastal town that is known for its beautiful scenery and rich Tlingit culture. The town is home to several museums and cultural centers that offer visitors a glimpse into the Tlingit way of life. Visitors can also take a tour of the town's historic Creek Street, which is lined with colorful buildings and shops. The town is also home to several waterfalls, including the famous Misty Fjords, which can be seen by boat.
Fairbanks
Fairbanks is a bustling city that is home to several museums and cultural centers. Visitors can take a tour of the city's historic downtown area, which is lined with colorful buildings and shops. The city is also home to the University of Alaska Fairbanks, which offers a variety of cultural and educational opportunities. Visitors can also take a tour of the nearby Chena Hot Springs, which is known for its natural hot springs and stunning scenery.
Must-Do Things In Alaska
Fishing of the Fleet
This annual event takes place in the small town of Valdez and is a celebration of the fishing industry that is so important to the community. Visitors can watch as the boats are blessed, and there is also a parade and other festivities.
Dog Sledding
Dog sledding is a popular activity in Alaska and is a great way to experience the state's winter wonderland. Visitors can take a tour with an experienced musher, who will teach you about the history of dog sledding and the care of the dogs.
Northern Lights
The northern lights are a spectacular sight, and Alaska is one of the best places to see them. Visitors can take a tour to a dark sky location to see the lights in all their glory.
Wildlife Viewing
Alaska is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including bears, moose, caribou, and whales. Visitors can take a tour to see these animals in their natural habitat or go on a guided hunting trip if they're interested in hunting.
Kayaking and Canoeing
Alaska's waterways offer a unique way to explore the state's natural beauty. Visitors can take a guided kayak or canoe tour to see the glaciers, fjords, and wildlife up close.
No matter what your interests are, Alaska offers something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the Last Frontier!
Know more about the best time to visit Alaska
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Dog sledding is a popular activity in Alaska and is a great way to experience the state's winter wonderland. Visitors can take a tour with an experienced musher, who will teach you about the history of dog sledding and the care of the dogs.
The northern lights are a spectacular sight, and Alaska is one of the best places to see them. Visitors can take a tour to a dark sky location to see the lights in all their glory.
Alaska is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including bears, moose, caribou, and whales. Visitors can take a tour to see these animals in their natural habitat or go on a guided hunting trip if they're interested in hunting.