Valdez

Alaska’s Best Bites: 15+ Foods to Try on Your Alaska Vacation

November 11, 2022 by Everyday Alaska

Are you coming to visit Alaska or making the move here? Check out all the foods to try and the wide variety Alaska has to offer by using the Alaska food bucket list below.

Please note that this post contains affiliate links which I may earn commission from. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Commissions from these qualifying purchases help support Everyday Alaska at no extra cost to you. Please follow the instructions on all of the recommended items. All of the information provided is my personal opinion, unless otherwise cited or noted.

Alaskan Foods to Try

Fish and Seafood

Fish and seafood are two of the foods that Alaska is most known for. Many people come up here to fish for their own catch of these delicacies, while others enjoy it at restaurants during vacation. Whether you’re catching it yourself or having it served up for you at dinner, here are some of Alaska’s most famous fish and seafood bites below.

Salmon-Most Alaskan restaurants you visit will likely have some variety of salmon on the menu for you to try. While many people prefer red (sockeye) salmon, most all varieties of salmon are delicious. You can enjoy it many different ways such as blackened, canned, smoked, or in a dip.

Crab–Deadliest Catch, anyone? You’ll pay a hefty price for this famous Alaskan food, but many say it’s well worth it.

Halibut-Halibut is my absolute favorite fish. Even if you don’t usually enjoy fish, you should give it a try. It’s mild, flakey, light, and delicious. Halibut tacos, burgers, and probably one of the most popular, deep fried halibut, are top on my list of favorite Alaskan foods.

Chowders-Seafood and clam chowders are popular at many Alaskan restaurants.

Deep fried halibut at Captain Patties in Homer, Alaska.

Meat

Many of us Alaskans hunt for our own meat, so we’re often enjoying moose, caribou, bear and more. If you’re visiting friends and relatives here, you may get a chance to have some of their harvest. If not, there are options to enjoy while dining out as well. Also, local meat processors are often a great place to find different Alaskan meats to try.

Reindeer-If you visit Alaska, you’ll see reindeer sausage as a side with many breakfast options, and even as a reindeer dog at hotdog stands.

Beef and Pork-I know these are not unique to Alaska, but you may find places that have Alaska raised meats such as these.

Traditional and Indigenous Foods

If you are lucky enough to try some traditional Alaska Native foods, give them a taste! I’m not too sure if we have an official state food, but if we did it would likely be some of these. Muktuk (whale), “Eskimo ice cream”, fry bread, dried fish, fish eggs, moose tongue, and more are some traditional foods you may come across if you attend an Alaska Native cultural event or stay with a friend or relative who is Alaska Native or makes traditional foods.

Alaska Grown

According to the USDA there are almost 1,000 farms in Alaska. They grow and raise a variety of animals and crops from barley (such as the Alaska Flour Company) to berries, and chickens to goats. According to this article “Alaska depends on shipments for about 95 percent of its food”, so it’s vital to support local food growers so they can continue enriching our local food supply. Check for the “Alaska Grown” sticker in grocery stores such as Safeway and Three Bears to find some great Alaskan foods to try, and support local farmers.

Local made Alaskan foods to try in our local Safeway store. — A display of some of the many Alaska made food options at our local grocery store.

Foraged Alaskan Foods to Try

Mushrooms, and berries, and plants; yay! There are so many tasty, edible goodies out in nature. Grab a berry book, download the Seek app, and grab some friends to go forage with. Just be 100% sure what you pick is edible.

A blueberry pie made with fresh picked, Alaskan blueberries and baked in a purple pottery pie dish. Berries are one of the best Alaskan foods to try. — A blueberry pie made with fresh picked, Alaskan blueberries. The berries made up for my lack of a beautiful crust!

Sides and Snacks

There are a few sides and snacks that you should try while in Alaska.

Sourdough-If you come visit Alaska, many local restaurants will offer sourdough as an option for sandwich bread, toast, and rolls. Honestly, some sourdough is a little too sour for me, but others is quite delicious. Give it a try and decide for yourself!

Kenai Cheese Dip-This dip is incredibly addictive. You can purchase this popular local favorite at grocery stores, at Echo Lake Meats in Soldotna, or find a recipe to mix it up yourself!

Pilot Bread-If you haven’t tried the well-known Alaskan staple, it’s a thick, dense, shelf-stable cracker that is mostly used as a transport system to bring tasty food to your mouth. Top it with PB&J, salmon spread, or whatever you’d like.

Desserts and Sweets

These unique delights would pair well with any popular Alaskan foods.

Alaska Wild Berry Products-Alaska Wild Berry Products has some must-eat Alaskan treats. Jams, jellies, syrups and chocolates filled with with Alaska’s bountiful berries, fireweed and more are a great treat and the perfect gift to bring back to friends or family.

Baked Alaska-Ironically enough, I’ve never tried this dessert, but I’d say if you can find it at a local Alaskan restaurant, give it a try, and share in the comments where you had it. It’s harder to find than you’d think in it’s namesake state!

Drinks

I’m sure you’re anticipating a brewery review here, but I don’t drink beer, so I guess I wouldn’t be much of a help there. But, there are a couple local beverages that you should know about.

Frontier Soda-Root Beer, Cola, Wild Blueberry, and Spruce Tip (my favorite) are the soda choices from Frontier Soda. These uniquely Alaskan sodas are great, and can be found at Three Bears and a other stores around the state.

Teas-There are a few different local companies, such as Felicity Loft, that create teas in Alaska. Give them a try. They make great gifts as well!

Frontier Soda’s root beer made in Alaska. — Enjoying some Frontier Soda with a view.

The above list has some of the best foods you’ll find in Alaska. Halibut, berry filled chocolates, cheese dip, fry bread, moose, local veggies, and more are some Alaskan foods you can try on your vacation. Comment below if you have a favorite, or let us know who one you’re most excited to try!

The Best Ways to See Glaciers in Alaska

August 11, 2022 by Everyday Alaska

Please note that this post contains affiliate links which I may earn commission from. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Please follow the instructions on all of the recommended items. All of the information provided is my personal opinion, unless otherwise cited or noted.

Seeing glaciers in Alaska is on the bucket list of many. That glacier blue, the massive calving chunks of ice, and the surrounding scenery lure many to the ice cold beauty of glaciers. But where, exactly, do you go to see them? After spending my whole life in Alaska, I’ve got the inside scoop on information you need to view glaciers by air, water, and land.

Viewing Glaciers by Air

Unless you count flying in, out, and around Alaska on commercial flights, I’ve never actually been on a glacier flight. Glacier sightseeing flights will fly you around these massive mountains of ice, and even land on them for you to explore! There are many companies that fly to a variety of different glaciers in Alaska. Since I’ve never gone on one of these flights I can’t give you any reviews, but a quick Google or Tripadvisor search will be able to show you tour options and reviews.

Viewing Glaciers by Water

Glacier cruises are a perfect way to view many glaciers in Alaska from the water. I’ve gone out on these cruises in Valdez and Seward, and have really enjoyed them. These full or half-day tours will not only give you great views of the glaciers, but you may see a variety of wildlife, too. And since you’ll be right where the glacier and water meet, chances are you’ll see some glacial calving.

Other great ways to view glaciers by water are with kayaks or jet skis. As for kayaking, two of the spots are at Portage Glacier and Valdez Glacier. Jet skiing can be done out of Whittier. Always be sure to wear your lifejacket, don’t get too close to the glaciers or icebergs, and watch out for other boats and paddlers while you’re out in the water. And if you’re not familiar with these areas and activities, I’d highly suggest getting a guide.

A large iceberg floating near the edge of portage lake.

Viewing Glaciers by Land

If you’re thinking you’ll miss out on viewing beautiful glaciers in Alaska because you won’t be able to take a glacier cruise or go on a glacier viewing flight, think again! You can view glaciers right from the road! Two of the best places to do this are Worthington Glacier on your way to Valdez, Alaska, and the Matanuska Glacier along the Glenn Highway.

Worthington Glacier can be viewed from the Richardson Highway on your way to Valdez, or, if you want a closer look, you can pull on into the Worthington Glacier State Recreation Site. Here, you’ll find trails to great viewing areas (some of which are wheelchair accessible), informative signs, ample parking, and restrooms (hooray!). It’s really a must-stop if you’re passing through.

Matanuska Glacier is visible from the Glenn Highway. As you take this highway from Anchorage to Glennallen you’ll see many large pull-offs for you to stop and take photos of the glacier. It’s a beautiful sight, especially in September when leaves are turning. The contrast between them and the glacier is fantastic. There are ways you can get a very close look at this glacier as well, which are well explained here.

Another glacier that you can get to is the Knik Glacier. In the winter, when the river is frozen, people take bikes, four wheelers, side by sides, and even vehicles over the ice to see the glacier. I have yet to do this, but if you attempt this glacier adventure as always make a plan, go with others, use caution, bring safety equipment, and don’t go out on thin ice!

A way to view Knik glacier in the summer is by taking a four wheeler or side by side. I’ve never done this, but after following Alaska Backcountry Adventure Tours, I’d definitely like to try. I’ve never taken any tours with them, but they look like a fun group and have fantastic reviews!

The Matanuska Glacier with fall yellow and orange leafs and snow topped mountains. — The majestic Matanuska Glacier in Alaska.

Things to Note

Safety

Safety first. Glaciers can be very dangerous. Crevasses, calving, icebergs and more can turn a fun viewing experience into a dangerous one. View them from a safe distance, and if you don’t know your way around glaciers, please find a knowledgeable and seasoned guide. Or use a guide even if you are comfortable around glaciers since they might help you learn more!

Guides and Tours

Throughly researching guides, reading reviews, and even just calling them up to see what they’re about is a great way to pick a tour. Since I can only vouch for a couple of tours (linked in the post), Google and Tripadvisor will have to help with that. But, as soon as I get to do any other tours I’ll be sure to post a review!

Viewing Seasons

Obviously, no matter what season you visit Alaska during, the glaciers will be there. It really depends on what you hope the surrounding scenery will be, and how you’d like to view them. Do you want to see glaciers surrounded by colors other than white and blue? Don’t come in winter! Sometimes, it might be hard to decipher what part is glacier and what part is snow covered mountains. Hoping to leisurely paddle a glacial lake? Visit Alaska in summertime and you’ll be able to do just that! Just keep in mind that some of these viewing areas and tours are seasonal, so check ahead for dates.

Budget

If you’re on a budget, seeing glaciers in Alaska from the road or in recreation sites, like the Worthington Glacier site, is probably the best way to go. There are hundreds of glaciers here, so check your maps before you hit the road and see which glaciers you can view on the way.

If you are making the trek to Alaska just to see glaciers, take a guided four wheeler tour, cruise, flight, or whatever you choose. Make sure to save up and budget accordingly though, as many of these are not cheap to do, especially for larger parties. It’s always good to check for military, senior, and group discounts!

I hope this helps you fulfill one of your bucket list items, or if it wasn’t already on your bucket list I hope that you’re now thinking of adding it! Visiting glaciers in Alaska is an unforgettable experience, and I hope you get the opportunity to do it.

A glacier viewed from a Major Marine glacier cruise out of Seward, Alaska.

Valdez, Alaska: A Local’s Guide to the Sights and Wildlife

May 4, 2017 by Everyday Alaska

Fireweed in Old Town Valdez, Alaska. — Fireweed in Valdez, Alaska in all its glory.

Updated January 15, 2024.

Hi everyone, and welcome to my first blog post. I thought it might be good to tell you all a little bit about myself, and what better way to do that than to share my hometown of Valdez, Alaska with you.

I grew up in beautiful Valdez, a small town located in Southcentral Alaska, neighboring Prince William Sound. Its countless activities, including fishing, kayaking, skiing, and snowmachining, draw people from around the world, but what brings many people to Valdez is the wildlife and amazing scenery.

I’m hoping you’re reading this post because you plan on visiting Valdez (or hopefully you will be after you read this!), to take in some of those activities and snap some shots of the wildlife. If you are, you’re in luck! Below I’ve compiled a list of the best places and ways to see all Valdez has to offer, by land, air, and water.

Land

Driving

If you plan on driving to Valdez, the first major landmarks you’ll see as you get closer to town are Worthington Glacier and Thompson Pass. If you turn off to head up to the glacier, you’ll end up in a large parking area. Once in the parking lot you’ll be met with restrooms (whew, you made it to one!) and paths that meander around by the glacier where you can get amazing pictures and even dip your feet in the chilly glacier runoff. This is a great chance to get out, stretch your legs, and take in the majestic views of Worthington.

Worthington Glacier near Valdez, Alaska. — Worthington Glacier.

Chances are if you ski, snowboard, or snowmachine you’ve heard of Thompson Pass before, but if not, you should definitely check it out. There are places for you to turn off and take pictures, and you will get an amazing view of the surrounding mountains on clear days. There’s even a campground by a lake in the pass if you want to stay awhile and enjoy the view, which I recommend so you can see the beautiful sunrises and sunsets.

A sunset in Thompson pass. — Sunset in Thompson Pass on the way to Valdez, Alaska.

As you get further on, you’ll come to Keystone Canyon. You’ll have some great photo opportunities here as well. Waterfalls line both sides of the road, and there are turnouts here too, which are large enough to fit any vehicle or rv, so be sure to stop and enjoy the view.

Making a stop with our Fuzion 416 in Keystone Canyon near Valdez, Alaska. — Make time to stop in Keystone Canyon.

The next spot to check out is down Dayville Road. If anyone recommends that you go “across the bay” to see sea life, bears, or go fishing, this is what they’re talking about. This road is to your left as you are coming into Valdez, right after the weigh station. It will take you to the Alyeska Pipeline Terminal if you go all the way down the road, but you’ll want to stop before that. There is a large parking lot along the way where you can stop and check out the sea life or go fishing, and there are also spots to camp further down the road. You will often times see seals and sea lions out there feeding and can get some great pictures of them enjoying their catch. With so many fish, though, there are usually bears near by, so please be cautious.

A brown bear in Valdez, Alaska near the hatchery. — A bear hanging out after dinner across the bay.

Once you leave your new seal friends, you’ll probably be heading into town. When you get very close you’ll end up on the “duck flats”. You’ll know you’re there when you can see town, and there’s mountain on one side and water on the other. You can sometimes see bears at the base of the mountain when you’re cruising by.

Last, but not least, I suggest heading to the Valdez Small Boat Harbor. As you pull into Valdez, signs will guide you to it, and once you’re close you can’t miss it. It’s a beautiful spot to take some photos of the boats and sea otters, and just relax after your journey to Valdez.

The Valdez Harbor. — Peaceful day at the Valdez Harbor.

Air

Plane

If you end up flying into Valdez you can get some great pictures as well. During the short 45-minute flight from Anchorage to Valdez, you’ll fly over some impressive scenery and even get a glimpse at the whole town as you prepare to land.

Helicopter

Another amazing viewing opportunity is by helicopter. With Vertical Solutions Helicopters you can get aerial views of waterfalls, glaciers, sea life and more. You can even land on a glacier, get some glacier water to drink, and walk around a bit. If you’re looking for a once in a lifetime photo opportunity, this would be it!

Water

Kayak

Another way to experience the beauty of Valdez is by water. One way to do this is by kayak. If you’re feeling a little stiff after sitting awhile on your way to town, this is a good way to work your muscles and shake off the jet lag (or driving lag). Even if you have no experience kayaking this is a perfect opportunity to learn and enjoy some of the sights at the same time.

Cruise

If you’re looking for a bit more of a leisurely tour of Prince William Sound, a glacier and wildlife cruise might be right up your alley. You’ll have the opportunity to see whales, glaciers, otters, and more.

Ferry

One more way to get around the Sound is with the Alaska Marine Highway System, aka the ferry. If you plan on driving to Valdez and want to take a different way back to Anchorage, or visa versa, this is the perfect way to do it and see something a little different on the way there. You can just load up your vehicle on the ferry and be on your way to or from Whitter. From there, it’s a fairly short drive into Anchorage.

On the way to or from Valdez on the ferry, you can often see many otters, seals, and other wildlife. This is a good way to continue your trip and still get to see Prince William Sound if you’re short on time. You can even take the short jaunts over to Tatitlek or Cordova from Valdez if you want to explore some more. Another bonus of the Marine Highway System’s fleet is that they’re all fairly large and have bathrooms on board, so if you have children or just need to walk around to stretch your legs, this might be a perfect option for you.

This is just a short list of spots to check out, but there are so many more. You’ll never stop somewhere without having a beautiful view, so have your camera ready at all times. Feel free to comment or email me with any questions, or let me know about your Valdez experience. You can also join the Everyday Alaska Travel Tip, Information, and Advice group, and/or our New to Alaska Tips, Information, and Advice group to ask any questions you may have.

P.S. Just a heads up, be sure to bring extra SD cards, and have your battery charged because you’ll be snapping shots like paparazzi!

Please note that many of these places, businesses, activities, and views may vary greatly with the seasons. For any activities that require booking, I would highly recommend doing it ASAP since they tend to fill up quickly. Also, as with anything in Alaska, or any state, please be cautious of the wildlife and be sure to obey all Alaska Department of Fish and Game rules and regulations if you plan on hunting or fishing during your visit.

Fireweed blooming at Allison Point in Valdez, Alaska. — A beautiful day across the bay.

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