Everyday Alaska

Everyday Life in The Last Frontier

Alaska

Reviewing the Resort: The Hotel Alyeska and Alyeska Resort

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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.

After having the opportunity to stay at The Hotel Alyeska for the first time last August, I thought what a better time to do review then now! If you want the overall review without all the reading, I would definitely recommend staying at The Hotel Alyeska at least one in your lifetime. If you want the whole scoop on my reasoning for this, continue reading.

The Hotel Alyeska on a beautiful August day.

The Hotel Alyeska

The Hotel Alyeska is the beautiful lodging located at the Alyeska Resort in Girdwood, Alaska. The hotel is popular for tourists and locals alike. It’s hopping with skiers and snowboarders in winter, and bustling with bikers and tourists in summer. It’s location, being less than an hour from Anchorage, makes it a convenient place for a weekend getaway, a day trip to enjoy some fresh winter powder, or even a wedding location, which is what we were there for.

I can’t say I ever thought I would be comfortable at a resort. To be honest, cabins are more my thing, but The Hotel Alyeska was very comfortable and inviting. The first thing I noticed when I walked in the door was the amazing scent. It smelled like a beautifully scented spruce Christmas candle, and really gave off a comforting and relaxing vibe. The second thing was the polite and friendly staff. The concierge was so helpful, and our waitress at one of the resort restaurants was very fun and informative. Since I had never been to a resort, I assumed it would feel stuffy and uninviting. I was quite wrong as the atmosphere and employees made me feel right at home.

Rooms and Accommodations

Since we were staying there for a wedding, I got to see few different types rooms offered at the hotel. Some of the rooms were huge and multi leveled, so you can really get whatever type of room you please depending on your budget. We got a good deal on a room due to being part of a block of rooms for the wedding, otherwise the rooms tend to be a little pricey, but worth the splurge.

Our room was not huge but had two queen beds, was clean, comfortable, and had a fantastic view. It faced the mountain and the tram so we really lucked out and had the perfect view of the resort. If you do end up staying there, I would suggest asking if it would be possible to have a room facing the direction of the tram, otherwise you may end up with a less desirable parking lot view. Not that you will be in your room much with all the activities there are to do, but a nice view is a great bonus.

The beautiful view from our room. (Just ignore the window spots!)

Activities

There is no shortage of things to do at The Hotel Alyeska and Alyeska Resort. The resort is best known for skiing and snowboarding, and it’s quite popular due to being so close to Anchorage, but no matter what season, there is always something there to enjoy outdoors and indoors as well.

Biking, hiking, and sightseeing in general are great ways to explore the area. It’s also a very convenient starting point to go on cruises, see glaciers on foot, by cruise, or even by jet ski, and visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. (Check out my detailed post on the conservation center here.) You can also take the previously mentioned tram for a bird’s eye view of the resort and surrounding area.

There is a lot to see and do inside as well. You’ll be able to check out shops, and even visit their Nordic Spa, which I can’t wait to see sometime! They also have a variety of art and taxidermy throughout the resort that is interesting to see. Don’t forget to check out Girdwood, too, to get a taste of the quirky and fun surroundings of Alyeska.

The tram making its way up the mountain.

Dining

You can grab a bite to eat as well. As far as food goes, I would suggest trying some of the restaurants at Alyeska and then explore what is available in Girdwood as well. We only had breakfast at the resort since we were having food at the wedding. It was quite pricey for what it we got, but the service was great, and the view was picturesque.

Since we were just there for the wedding I didn’t get much time to check everything out, but I did throughly enjoy our visit and can’t wait to go back. The hotel and resort are absolutely beautiful, and the land that surrounds it is even prettier. The top-notch staff, stunning views, and variety of activities really make The Hotel Alyeska and Alyeska Resort a must-see place. I would highly suggest if it is within your budget to check out The Hotel Alyeska, Alyeska Resort, and the surrounding area. 

Do you have questions about an upcoming trip to Alaska? Ask them in the comments! Have you visited The Hotel Alyeska and Alyeska Resort before? Tell me about your experience, and share any of your tips and advice regarding your visit in the comments!

The entrance to The Hotel Alyeska.


Our Visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

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

The first time I visited the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center was on our 4th grade field trip. It seemed like an amazing place at the time, with such a variety of close up animal encounters and a location with an picturesque backdrop. I had wanted to go back ever since, but have never made the time to go until this past weekend, and it did not disappoint!

With the abundant amount of things to do and see in Alaska, I’m sure you’re trying to figure out if you should add AWCC to your vacation checklist. I would say “Yes!”, but you can read further and see if you agree!

Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
The cozy moose barn at AWCC.

What is the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center?

You can basically think of AWCC as a tour of Alaska’s wildlife, all in one spot. It’s like you hit the wildlife jackpot, and somehow this whole variety of animals congregated in one area, just for you to see. Now, obviously that is not the case, but it sure feels like it.

I feel like the best way to explain it is to just quote directly from their website and sum it up. “The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is a sanctuary dedicated to preserving Alaska’s wildlife through conservation, education, research, and quality animal care.” It has a large loop that you can drive, bike, or walk through, and along this loop you will see a variety of animals that I really don’t think you will find anywhere else. You can choose to have a tour, or do the loop yourself, which is what we did.

What will I see at AWCC?

There is really a vast variety of animals that you will encounter at AWCC. We came across a bull moose first, and shortly after saw muskox, brown bear, black bear, and more! There are many animals, big and small, located at the center. These include elk, wolves, fox, owls, and more.

Brown bears AWCC Alaska
Bears viewed from above on the viewing bridge.

Where is the center located?

AWCC is in a very convenient location. It is about an hour from Anchorage, so it can be an easy day trip if that is where you are heading from. If you’re staying at The Hotel Alyeska, or anywhere in Girdwood, you’re even closer at about a twenty-minute drive. It is a definite must see if you plan on driving down to the Kenai Peninsula, as you will be passing AWCC on your way there.

Who would enjoy visiting AWCC?

Anyone and everyone! Young, old, and everyone in between, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is a must for all wildlife lovers. If you are visiting with someone who is elderly, has a disability, or even if its just raining, you can drive the loop, and do your wildlife viewing from the comfort of your vehicle.

AWCC Bear Viewing Bridge
Great views from the bear viewing bridge.

When should I visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center?

Anytime! Just be prepared for whatever weather you may come across during your visit by wearing weather appropriate gear, and check the AWCC website or call for hours before going. 

What should I wear?

Great question! This will depend a lot on what season you visit Alaska in. As I’m sure you’ve heard and read in many other places, Alaska is a place of rapidly changing weather. I’d say check the forecast, but always be prepared for inclement weather with sweatshirts, hats, lightweight gloves, and waterproof layers. Bringing along some HotHands, especially when visiting any time other than summer, will keep you warm and comfortable. If you’re going to walk to loop, you may also want to consider bringing rain boots as the trail may be muddy when you go.

AWCC Wildlife Observation Deck
This wildlife observation deck is a great reprieve from the rain.

Why should I visit AWCC?

Why shouldn’t you! This may be a common question though, as you will likely see animals while you’re out and about in Alaska, and may think you don’t need to make the trip to AWCC to see wildlife. You won’t see wildlife like you will at the conservation center, though! The variety of Alaskan wildlife that you will experience here is much more than you’ll see on your average tour of the state. I’m a born and raised Alaskan, and I can tell you that I haven’t seen all of these Alaskan animals in the wild in all my years here, so your chances to see this scope of wildlife outside of AWCC are rare. 

In addition to all you will see, you’ll have epic photo opportunities of these animals. There is also an array of free  educational programs to further your knowledge about the wildlife, and paid tours where you can even feed an animal! 

AWCC mom and baby muskox
A mother and calf muskox; something rare to see!

How do I support the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center?

By visiting the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center you are supporting the care of these animals and the programs that AWCC participates in, such as the Wood Bison Reintroduction Project. You can support AWCC by visit their gift shop as well, and you can even “adopt” an animal from them, which would make a great gift idea!

Wood Bison Reintroduction Information
Conservation and wood bison reintroduction information.

You can read this post, watch videos, and look at pictures all you want, but until you’ve been there and seen it, nothing will really compare to the experience you’ll get by visiting AWCC yourself. Almost two decades after my first visit, it is still an amazing place to explore and learn.

Have you been to AWCC before, or did this post encourage you to go? Please leave a comment of your experience below! If you have questions about visiting the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, or any Alaska activities, please leave a question in the comments!

Gift Ideas for Snowmachiners, Skiers, Snowboarders, and Other Winter Sport Enthusiasts

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Out for a December ride.

Winter is fast approaching, and there are few people more excited than snowmachiners (or snowmobilers as some of you may refer to them), skiers, snowboarders, and winter sport lovers to see that snow fly. If you know one of these people, or maybe you are one of those people, you know that they’re hobbies (or lifestyles!) that can take up your whole winter. And with big hobbies like that come lots of gear.

Luckily, hobbies like that make gift giving much easier. If you are looking for a birthday, Christmas, or any other gift, you can always look at that person’s favorite activities and get gift giving ideas from there. In the case of winter sport lovers, there are a variety of gift ideas listed below, from smaller stocking stuffers to more pricy gifts, to help you find a present that any winter sport enthusiast will use and love.

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.

Rakuten
Before you order any of these gifts, be sure to use Rakuten to earn money back. If you shop through their store links you can earn money back on your purchases and get a rebate. Plus, if you use this link, you can earn $10+ on your first purchase of $25 or more!

Socks
When your feet are cold, all of you is cold. Warm feet can be the difference between riding all day and packing it up after an hour. Giving someone the gift of toasty feet with these socks is both thoughtful and useful.

Gloves
The same goes for gloves as it does for socks. Warm hands make for a better day outdoors, and these gloves will keep any outdoor lover toasty warm.

HotHands
To add even more warmth and comfort to the adventure, add some HotHands to the mix and keep you hands, feet, and body warm.

Coffee Card
Now why would you want to give a coffee card if you’re giving a gift to someone who is going to be out in the middle of nowhere all winter? Well, they are going to come home at some point, and when the do it’s nice to have a delicious, warm drink to wrap up a day of winter activities, so why not give the gift of a tasty treat.

Shovel
Get your friend or family member a shovel? Yes. A shovel. Why? Because if they are having any sort of fun out in the snow, there is a solid chance they will get stuck. And not just a little stuck, but break- out-the-shovel stuck. And when they take that shovel out, they’ll think of the awesome person who gave them such a wonderful and useful gift. You’re welcome. 😉 Annnnd, this shovel has a little bonus inside too!

Goggles
If your giftee doesn’t have goggles, or maybe they have ones that need to be replaced, goggles are a great thing to give. They are necessary to keep from getting frostbite, keep your eyes safe from branches, weather and other obstacles, and to help you see. And if you get these 509 ones, you can even get different lenses, which can be a whole other gift in itself!

Goggle Lenses
Honestly, I didn’t even know there was such a variety of lenses you could put into goggles until my husband asked for them for Christmas one year. You can get a variety of colors to help you see better in various conditions, and you can even get heated ones!

Goggle Case
Sticking with our goggle theme, let’s talk about goggle case. You may think this is a little ridiculous, but keeping gear protected and organized will help your friend or family member get many more years out of their gear and save money in the long run, so it’s really a pretty great and practical gift.

Balaclava/Gator
Frostbite. Windburn. Sunburn. It’s really best to avoid all that fun stuff. One way to help prevent those problems is by using a balaclava and/or gator. These help everyone stay comfortable, warm, and prevent the problems listed above, and who doesn’t want that?!

GoPro
Give you friend or family member the gift of documentation with a GoPro. Stick it on a helmet and ride away, recording all the memories of the day to share with friends and family later.

Helmet
Hopefully they already have one, but if they don’t or if the one they have needs to be replaced, a helmet is a great gift to give.

Avalanche Beacon
Show them you care by giving a gift that will keep them safe such as an avalanche beacon. Also, recommend that they take a backcountry safety class so they know how to properly use their gear in case of an emergency.

Avalanche Airbag
Definitely one of the pricier gifts on the list, but also one of the most important. This is another gift that will hopefully never get used (you don’t often give a gift like that!), but incase they ever need one, an avalanche airbag is a great gift to give.

Garmin inReach
While we’re on the topic of safety, check out the Garmin inReach. I’ve got a complete review of it to check out here.

Muffpot
“Ummm, what the heck is a Muffpot,” you may ask. Well, a Muffpot is a magical cooking device. Basically, it’s like the Instant Pot but for a snowmachine. Put it on the snowmachine exhaust, pop the food in, drive for a bit, and voila, warm food!

Backcountry Fuel Box
A subscription box for a snowmachiner? Yup, you read that right. While Backcountry Fuel Box is not targeted at riders, this would make a perfect gift for them. With easy, lightweight, to-go snacks, meals, drink mixes, and money saving deals in every box, this gift will please any recipient.

Jetboil
A warm drink and a hot meal are an added bonus to any ride and will keep you full and energized throughout the day. If you aren’t familiar with Jetboils, it basically explains the gist of it in the name; it boils water incredibly fast so you can be having hot drinks and preparing hydrated food in a jif. This is super handy to have on any outdoor adventure and can be brought along while on a snowmachine ride to help fix up a quick meal. You can even heat up some of the Backcountry Fuel Box items using a Jetboil! Don’t forget the fuel cans as well!

Doing laps on a bluebird day.

Mountain House
Delicious dehydrated meals that can be heated up using the Jetboil, Mountain House meals will fill a hungry belly and are easy to pack in a backpack or snowmachine bag. They are good to have with incase a ride runs longer than expected as well, so riders will have enough food incase of an emergency or delay.

Gift Card
If you’re not sure what to give, a gift card is always a good idea. Amazon has tons of items that would make great gifts for the snowmachiner in your life, and they can find many useful items to take with them riding.

Amazon Prime
Snowmachiners can never have too much gear, and with that comes many, many online orders. Give the gift of saving money to your friend or family member by giving them an Amazon Prime subscription. With free shipping on the gear they order (which will save them a ton!), access to tv shows, movies, music and more, an Amazon Prime membership is guaranteed to made anyone happy.

Now that you’ve got some shopping ideas for your winter sport enthusiasts, it’s time to get to shopping before that snow flies!

Check out this article for more gift ideas for outdoor lovers!

Looking for stocking stuffer ideas? Click here for our stocking stuffer gift guide!

Where to Eat in Kenai, Alaska

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So you’ve found yourself in beautiful Kenai, Alaska, and you’re wondering where to eat. Well I’ve been there. And I’ve eaten there. And now that I’ve been there and eaten there (many, many times!)  I’ve got the scoop on where to eat in Kenai, Alaska! And if you’re looking for restaurants in neighboring Soldotna, too, click here!

[Read more…] about Where to Eat in Kenai, Alaska

Where to Eat in Soldotna, Alaska

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Updated February 20, 2023.

Whenever I travel somewhere one of the first things I look for is where to eat. Do I want something fancy or casual, fast or dine-in, burgers or fish? What different options are in the area? Where should I go, what should I get? How much will it cost? Where do all the locals go? Well, luckily for you, I have the answers to all of your question about places to eat in Soldotna, Alaska right here! And if you’re looking to eat in nearby Kenai, check this list out!

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.

Kaladi Brother’s Coffee

Looking for a cozy spot to sip on some delicious beverages? Check out Kaladis location in Soldotna; with cozy seating, yummy beverages, and friendly service you won’t be disappointed.

What to order: I’m not a coffee drinker but the rest of my family is and they really enjoy Kaladi’s coffee. I love their rasperberry steamer, and my new favorite is a caramel steamer.

A delicious steamer from Kaladis.

Hooked on the Bean

Getting your caffeine on the run? Cruise over to Hooked on the Bean drive thru for a quick fix!

What to order: Grab a delicious Red Bull special for a pick me up or a London Fog on those chillier days.

Hot Dogs a la Carte

Hot Dogs Ala Cart offers a variety of hot dogs to choose from and plenty of contiments to stack on top at their quick-stop food stations.

What to order: A reindeer dog! When in Alaska, right?!

Jersey Subs

Here you’ll find filling subs that you can take with you on the go, dine at the shop, or call in for pick up (which I highly recommend doing during summer since they’re pretty busy, just make sure you call the right one since there’s one in Kenai, too!). You can go from mini to massive, whatever floats your boat! And speaking of boats, if you place an order for pick up they will special wrap it for you so your sandwich doesn’t get soggy if you’re heading out fishing and want to bring sandwiches for lunch!

What to order: Grab a turkey or a giant roast beef sando to go and head out fishing!

Fine Thyme Cafe

Looking to sit a bit and enjoy soup, sandwiches, and a relaxing atmosphere? Check out Fine Thyme Café for a sophisticated lunchtime snack with great service. And while you’re there, check out the shops next door as well!

What to order: Grab a Perky Turkey and a chai! They also have wonderful desserts; my favorite being the Yellow Submarine!

Dessert at Fine Thyme Soldotna, Alaska
The “yellow submarine” at Fine Thyme Soldotna, Alaska.

Odie’s Deli

If you’re looking for some good soup and sandwiches, check out Odie’s Deli. With a pretty chill vibe and good customer service, Odie’s is the place to go for your lunchtime cravings.

What to order: Any of the sandwiches are delicious, as are the daily soups. Make sure you grab a giant cookie as well to top off your tasty meal.

Yo!Tacos

Fresh and tasty, Yo!Tacos serves up some delicious tacos and more at their convenient location in the heart of Soldotna. 

What to order: Carne asada nachos. It’s enough to feed 2+ people! 

An Alaska-sized nacho plate from Yo!Tacos.

The Schnitzel Bomber

Their food is the bomb, pun intended. They have fantastic customer service, consistently delicious food, and a great variety of specials as well. This is a drive thru establishment, and it’s best to check their Facebook for the menu and specials, then call your order in to be picked up. 

What to order: Chicken schnitzel with mashed potatoes and cabbage, or any special with cheese curds in it. I’m not usually a big fan of bread pudding, but theirs is delicious, so add one to your order as well!

Their chicken schnitzle is truly the best!

The Duck Inn

Really, how could you not want to go to a place with a catchy name like that! With a variety of food to satisfy everyone’s taste buds, The Duck Inn is a great one-stop eat for any group. Prices here are about what the average is around town. I’ve had Thanksgiving and Easter meals there, and they can really whip up a feast!

What to order: Give anything a try, there’s plenty to choose from!

Acapulco Mexican Restaurant

Looking for the best Mexican food in town? Check out Acapulco where the chips keep coming and you should order one of everything that has the words “carne asada” in it. Enjoy a fun, colorful, and festive atmosphere while dining on a variety of Mexican dishes and a scenic view.

What to order: They have delicious halibut, carne asada tacos, carne asada  burritos, and a must have chipotle sauce that you can order on the side. You can also order the Monster Burrito if you’re hungry for a ginormous burrito with a it of everything in it!

carne asada tacos at Acapulco in Soldotna, Alaska
The carne asada taco plate at Acapulco.

St. Elias Brewing

One of my favorite places to dine is St. Elias. With a little something for everyone, and at a reasonable price, St. Elias is a great for anything from a casual pizza night to a birthday celebration. They have indoor and outdoor dining, but being a local hot spot they can still get pretty busy and have a wait, but it is more than worth it!

What to order:  The Popeye for an appetizer, Chicken on the Ranch pizza for dinner, and rootbeer to drink! Don’t forget the Mt. Redoubt dessert.

St. Elias Brewing in Soldotna, Alaska
A fun booth view at St. Elias Brewing in Soldotna, Alaska.

Mykel’s Restaurant

If you’re looking for a fine dining experience, Mykel’s is your ticket. With a variety of delicious dishes, Mykel’s is the place to go if your’re looking for a classy night on the town. They primarily serve steaks and a variety seafood dishes. Be prepared to pay more for the expreicne, but the price is well worth it.

What to order: Crab dip fondue (I don’t even like crab, but I love their crab dip! It may be off the menu now, but I’ll keep you posted!), prime bites, and a double fudge brownie!

The prime bite appetizer at Mykels.

Bluebird Café

A short drive from downtown Soldotna into the community of Sterling is the Bluebird Café. Charming, immaculately clean, and staffed with wonderful and friendly people, it’s a must-stop.

What to order: I love their stuffed French toast, but if your not feeling breakfast give the blue cheese burger a try.

Stuffed French toast for me, and a bacon jam/blue cheese burger for my husband. Yummy!

I hope this list helps you find all of the go to places to eat in Soldotna, Alaska! Now that you have a list of all the local hot spots it’s time to head out and chow down. Check out the links for addresses, menus, pricing, and more. Enjoy!

Have you tried any of the places on this list? Do you know of any I missed here? Comment with your review, and let me know what you think some of the best places to eat in Soldotna, Alaska are!

The Best (and Easiest!) Salmon Dip Recipe

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Easy salmon dip recipe Alaska
The final product.

If you love salmon as much as I do, you want to find as many recipes and ways to have it as you can. It’s healthy and delicious, so really what more could you ask for in a food? One of my favorite ways to have salmon is in salmon dip. You only need three ingredients and a mixer (or a little elbow grease!). So without delaying you any more, here is the best (and easiest!) salmon dip recipe ever!

Easy salmon dip recipe Alaska

The Best (and Easiest!) Salmon Dip Recipe

With three simple ingredients you can make the best salmon dip!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 8 Oz Cream Cheese You can use a block of cream cheese and leave it out to soften before whipping, or buy prewhipped cream cheese.
  • 4 Oz Canned Salmon
  • 1 Tbsp Garlic Pepper

Method
 

  1. Gather all of your ingredients and begin by putting your cream cheese in your Kitchen Aid and whip until smooth. 
  2. Drain your can of salmon and add it to the whipped cream cheese. Stir in the salmon until it is evenly mixed with the cream cheese. 
  3. Once the cream cheese and salmon are mixed together, add the garlic pepper, tasting the mixture as you add the garlic pepper till it suites your taste. 
  4. After all ingredients are throughly mixed together, grab some Ritz, scoop up some salmon dip, and enjoy!