Everyday Alaska

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11 Things You Must Have on a Summer Vacation in Alaska

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So you’re planning a vacation to Alaska; what an exciting time! Second only to the actual visit, planning is one of my favorite parts of travel. It can be tricky when it comes to planning what to pack, though. One of the things you may be wondering about is what you should bring on your Alaska vacation. Don’t fret, I’ve got a list of eleven must have things you‘ll need on your summer vacation in Alaska!

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.

What are the must have items for a summer vacation in Alaska?

Alrighty, let’s hop into our list of items you’ll want to have on your vacation in Alaska!

Sunscreen

It’s Alaska, the land of glaciers, snow, and freezing temperatures, right? Well, that’s not quite all correct in the summertime. Although we have an immense amount of glaciers, it can get pretty toasty here in the summer, especially with the midnight sun shining down. So, don’t forget to purchase sunscreen, and reapply as directed. You definitely don’t want to get burnt on your vacation, and if you do your friends may think you traveled to Mexico and not Alaska!

Kayaking on the Kenai Peninsula.
Hat, sunscreen, and sunshine!

Sunglasses

While we’re on the topic of sunshine, don’t forget to bring your sunglasses! The sun can be very direct and bright, so protect your eyes with some good sunglasses.

Hat

Continuing on that same topic, make sure you bring or purchase a hat(s) for your vacation. There are plenty of places to purchase them while you’re here, too. This will provide additional protection from the sun, and keep it out of your eyes and off your noggin.

Sleep Mask

Okay, I promise this is the last sun-related item! With the amazing amount of daylight Alaska gets during the summer, it’s sometimes hard to fall asleep if you don’t have the right items. I’d like to think that the places you’ll be staying will have blackout curtains, but on the chance that they don’t, I’d suggest getting a sleep mask. This will help you fall asleep even if there’s daylight still streaming into the room, or if you need a little midday nap after a day of Alaskan adventures.

Summer sunset on the Kenai Peninsula.
A late night sunset on the Kenai Peninsula.

Camera Batteries

Make sure you have enough camera batteries and keep them charged on your travels. The last thing you want to do is come upon a clear view of Denali and have your camera batteries die!

Binoculars

Whether you’ll be RVing through Alaska, taking a cruise, or making a short trip, binoculars are a must have Alaska vacation item. These will help you spot Alaska’s abundant wildlife, and check some wildlife sighting off your bucket list. We use Vortex binoculars for spotting sheep, goats, moose, bears, and more.

Spotting sheep on the mountains along the Seward Highway.

Bug Spray

You may have heard that mosquitos are our state bird, and that’s pretty accurate. They can get pretty vicious in the summertime, so grabbing some bug spray is essential.

Bug Net

It’s definitely not a fashion statement, but a bug net is a game changer! These bug nets, and nets with hats, are my go-to and have saved me from many bites. But, if you do happen to get bit, check out my remedies for mosquito bite relief!

Extra Suitcase

If you’re like me, you’ll be purchasing some souvenirs on your vacation. Take along an extra bag that fits in a bigger suitcase to bring your treasures back in. And, if you’re wondering what the best, authentic Alaskan souvenirs are and where to buy them, check out my post here!

Nomar bags made in Homer, Alaska.
Purchase a souvenir AND a suitcase in one with Alaska made Nomar bags.

Cash

I know the card has really taken over, but cash is still a good thing to have on hand. It’s convenient to have cash for tips on charters, some more remote stops may not accept cards, and on the off chance a system is down and businesses are only taking cash it’s important to have some accessible to you.

Good Attitude

I’m sure you knew I’d mention it, but one of the most important things to have on a summer vacation in Alaska is a good attitude! Be flexible, have some patience, create backup plans for times when rainy weather interrupts your plans, and enjoy your time in the Last Frontier!

Where can I find these must have Alaska travel items?

Lastly, I’ll give a short run down of where you can find these items. Some things you may want to bring with you if you already have them, and others you can purchase online to pack with you. You can also buy some of the less travel friendly items (e.g. sunscreen) when you arrive in Alaska, and yet other things (e.g. patience) will hopefully come with you for your whole vacation. See what suits you and your travel needs best, and purchase when and where it’s most convenient for you.

I hope this Alaska vacation packing list has helped you determine what you’ll need to enjoy your vacation to the fullest! If you have questions about traveling to Alaska feel free to leave a comment below, or sign up for the Everyday Alaska newsletter, and send me an email.

You can also join the Everyday Alaska Travel Tips, Information, and Advice group, and/or our New to Alaska Tips, Information, and Advice group to ask any questions you may have. I’m happy to help you get the most out of your time in our beautiful Last Frontier!

An Alaskan’s Guide to the Iditarod and Fur Rondy

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If you’re reading this, I’m assuming you’re either planning a trip to Alaska to experience the Iditarod and the Fur Rendezvous, or you’re curious what all the hubbub over these celebrations is about. After going to theses events many times over the years, I can tell you attending the Iditarod starts (more about the two starts later), and the Fur Rendezvous events are worth the hype. Below, I’ll give you the inside scoop on the events and activities, and let you know what to wear and what to expect at these events. So, let’s sled on into an Alaskan’s guide to the Iditarod and Fur Rondy!

What is the Iditarod and Fur Rondy?

First things first, let’s go over what the Iditarod and Fur Rendezvous (Fur Rondy) are. These are two separate events that occur at the same time, and help all of us Alaskan’s get through the last part of the dark winter days because spring is near (or nearish!) when Fur Rondy is here!

The Iditarod start in Willow, Alaska.
The Iditarod starting line in Willow.

What to Expect at Fur Rondy

Fur Rondy events occur from the end of February to the beginning of March. This is a winter festival held in Anchorage that is comprised of a variety of entertaining and exciting events! It started in 1935 and continues to bring joy to Alaskan’s and visitors ever since. You can expect to see some unique events at this “only in Alaska” style celebration. Those include a snow sculpture contest, a winter carnival with rides, food, and more, blanket toss, a parade, fireworks, fur auctions, an outhouse race, running of the reindeer, and more!

My favorite Fur Rondy event is the Charlotte Jensen Native Arts Market. This event is held at the Dimond Center Mall and features Alaska Native artists. You’ll be able to speak with the artists and purchase their handcrafted items such as masks, fur hats and gloves, ivory carvings, jewelry, beadwork, baskets, paintings, and more. As you can tell, there’s really a lot happening at this Alaskan celebration, so you can check out the events calendar here!

Alaska Native made artwork at Fur Rondy Charlotte Jensen Native Arts Market.
Artwork at the market.

Iditarod History and the Two Starts

If you’ve ever watched Balto or Togo you probably know of the importance of sled dog teams in Alaska. The famous pups that made the serum trek to Nome saved many lives, and dog teams have been an integral part of transportation in Alaska. The Iditarod, “The Last Great Race”, keeps the spirit of mushing alive and well by having mushers from around the globe gather in Alaska and race from Willow to Nome.

The ceremonial Iditarod start in Anchorage, Alaska.
These sled dogs are ready to run at the Anchorage Iditarod start.

The Iditarod starts occur at the beginning of March. There are two options to see the start of the Iditarod. The first “start” is in downtown Anchorage. It’s a ceremonial start and runs through part of the city. You can view it right from the starting line downtown, or choose a place along the route to watch from. Many visitors choose to watch from downtown, while locals watch from the starting line or one of the many places along the route though Anchorage.

I’ve only watched the ceremonial start from downtown, and it’s fun to be a part of the hustle and bustle and excitement of it all. Plus, you get a first hand look at how the sled dogs (who I first thought would be big, fluffy huskies, but are actually sleek, smaller, and very enthusiastic pups), handlers, and mushers work together, and can feel the anticipation for the real start the following day.

The Iditarod’s real start is in Willow, which is about ninety minutes or so from Anchorage. Many Alaskan’s attend this event, and send the mushers and their furry teammates off with Alaskan hospitality. It’s one big, fun celebration. For as much as I love the downtown ceremonial start, I love the restart even more. Everyone is bundled up and sipping warm drinks while the adventurers mush off onto the trail of “The Last Great Race” and begin their journey.

DeeDee Jonrowe at the Iditarod start in Willow, Alaska.
DeeDee Jonrowe at the Willow start.

What should I wear to the Iditarod start and Fur Rondy?

While we’re on the subject of bundling up and sipping warm drinks, I figured I’d touch on what you should wear to stay warm and comfortable at these events. First off, you’ll want to check the weather and take that into consideration. Secondly, take into account what weather you’re acclimated to, and plan accordingly. Some year’s the weather is warm enough to wear jeans and a base layer, and other years you want to wear a full snowsuit with a face mask to protect you from the wind! The weather can be so unpredictable that, as with any other activity in Alaska, it’s best to layer. For details on the best gear and ways to layer for winter weather, check out my winter clothing post here!

What activities are there at these events?

As I listed above, there are so many fun events and activities to participate in during Fur Rondy and the Iditarod. Below, I’ll recap some of my favorites!

Alaska State Snow Sculpture Championship

The only type of snow sculpture I can create is a snowman, so seeing the talent of these snow sculptors is amazing to me! This event is located close to the ceremonial Iditarod start in downtown Anchorage, and showcases a variety of creative snow sculptures that are a must see.

Snow sculptures in Anchorage, Alaska.
By the time we saw it the snow had melted a bit, but this pineapple was one of my favorites!

Fur Rondy Carnival

Also located downtown, this carnival is a winter treat for everyone. I think it’s so fun to see all the carnival rides and lights during winter, and it’s a really neat experience for visitors as well, since not often do you get to have a carnival in winter.

Fur Rondy winter carnival in Anchorage, Alaska.
Bundle up for some rides!

The Fur Auction

The fur auction is a really interesting event to see. It’s fun to watch people bid on items, see how much things go for, and check out the furs everyone wears to these events, which are held in downtown Anchorage.

The Fur Rondy Fur Auction in Anchorage, Alaska.
A busy, bluebird day at the Fur Auction.

Charlotte Jensen Native Arts Market

I can’t say enough good things about this market. It’s really a must visit event. Seeing the art is one thing, but getting to meet the artists really is the cherry on top! Plus, you know you’re getting authentic Alaskan items, which are often hard to come by. For more information on great Alaska items to purchase and where to buy them, check out my post here!

Alaska Native made fur hats the the Native Arts Market.
Beautiful Native-made fur hats at the market.

The Iditarod Starts

Don’t miss the Iditarod start! Whether you make it to the start or the restart (or even both!), you’re in for a great time and a real Alaskan experience!

I hope this guide to the Iditarod and Fur Rondy has helped you in your Alaska activity and travel planning. These are all events that I love and enjoy, and I hope you enjoy them as much as I do!

If you have questions about traveling to Alaska, or the Iditarod and Fur Rondy, feel free to leave a comment below, or sign up for the Everyday Alaska newsletter, and send me an email. You can also join the Everyday Alaska Travel Tips, Information, and Advice group, and/or our New to Alaska Tips, Information, and Advice group to ask any questions you may have. I’m happy to help you get the most out of your time in our beautiful Last Frontier!

6 Mistakes to Avoid when Visiting Alaska for the First Time

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You’ve saved and saved, and now you’re planning your dream trip to the majestic wilderness of Alaska. Road trips through waterfall walled canyons, plentiful moose sightings, and hikes through untouched mountains fill your mind. But, to truly enjoy your time in the breathtaking Last Frontier, there are a few mistakes you’ll want avoid making.

One of the many waterfalls in Keystone Canyon.

What should I avoid when visiting Alaska?

There are a few things you should avoid or account for when visiting Alaska. Don’t worry, though, these aren’t trip ruining mistakes. With the right attitude, no trip to my home state can truly be bad. These are just some suggestions and guidelines to help you enjoy Alaska to the fullest.

I want your dream vacation to become one of your favorite memories. It’s my favorite place to be, and I’m hoping it will become one of your’s, too. So without further ado, here are a list of mistakes to avoid when visiting Alaska.

Underestimating the Size

Don’t underestimate the truly vast size of Alaska. It’s the largest of the United States, coming in at over 2.5 times the size of Texas! This is a very important fact to keep in mind when visiting Alaska, especially if you plan on doing a bit of traveling around the state.

It may sound fun to travel from Anchorage down to the Kenai Peninsula, and then make a quick drive to Denali National Park and Fairbanks during a five day trip. It doesn’t look too bad on the map, right? Well, maps can be a bit deceiving. That would be like driving through multiple states, and when you factor in construction season, weather, road closures, and extra traffic from visitors (learn more about those variables here), it’s quite the trek. Most of that time would be spent viewing Alaska from the inside of a vehicle, and although the drives here are extraordinary that’s not what you want to spend your vacation doing. So, all said and done, consider the size of Alaska and plan accordingly with the amount of time you’ll be visiting.

Mile 123 of the Denali Highway. Plan extra time for more remote roads as they are not usually paved.

Forgetting Layers

As I’m sure you’ve heard, weather in Alaska is unpredictable, so layering is your best friend when packing for your Alaska vacation. Having a variety of layers will help you stay comfortable no matter what weather you encounter or what season you visit during. This will help ensure that you can enjoy the activities you’ve dreamed of without being too hot, cold, or wet.

Downtown Anchorage during the Iditarod Start. Time to put those layers on!

Being Unprepared for the Season

This ties into a couple other points, but it’s important to be prepared for the season you’re visiting in. If you show up in the summer, expect road construction. If you visit during the summer through early fall, be prepared for mosquitoes. If you visit during the winter, know that daylight hours are lean. This goes for clothing as well, as I stated above, and also time on the road.

The time it takes to go from town to town will change per season as well. Things slow down in winter with the snow and ice. Fall is a more normal pace, but still has some construction. Summertime can be a mixed bag. Because of the midnight sun you can travel in the light a majority of the day, but all of the visitor traffic can often make road trips slow going. Those are just a few things to think about for the different periods you may be traveling during.

Expecting Public Transportation

Alaska is not known for its public transportation system. Surprisingly, many people think it’s easy to hop a bus and head to the next town a couple hundred miles away. There are so many other visitors heading in that direction, so of course there’s a bus right? Nope. You won’t be seeing any Graylines here.

Although there may be tour buses and some shuttles, there are no major buses that will take you around the state at scheduled times. There are, however, Ubers, taxis, rental cars and RVs (the most popular options), the ferry, the Alaska Railroad, and some city buses. Not all of those are consistent and reliable options, though, and some are very seasonal so check into schedules when planning your trip.

Not Making Reservations

Skipping over making reservations and not planning early can leave you in the lurch for some of the bucket list activities you may want to enjoy. If you’re set on doing an aurora tour, jet skiing around glaciers, zip lining, going on a fishing charter or day cruise, or mushing with sled dogs, you may want to look into getting a reservation. The same goes for lodging and rental cars/RVs as well.

Although there are things you can schedule last minute, it’s best to call ahead of time and check. We get an immense amount of visitors here every year who likely want to do the same activities you do and stay at the same places you want to stay. Thus, things book up quickly and reservations are out over a year in advance sometimes.

Fishing trips book up quickly. Book in advance to make sure you get a spot!

But, if your trip is coming up soon and you haven’t made any reservations, or if you’re just winging it day by day, don’t fret! You can sometimes book activities and other reservations on short notice and also check for cancellations. If an activity or place you wanted to experience doesn’t work out, don’t worry! Alaska has a plethora of beautiful places and epic activities to enjoy, so pivot and find a new experience you may not have thought of otherwise!

Thinking You’re the Only Ones

Alaska is a bucket list destination, so naturally there is a large number of people that travel here. But the thing is, as large as our state is it’s just not built for a lot of people. We have a small road system. Our towns aren’t built for populations to double and triple over the summer. We don’t always have the workforce to fill the positions needed to accommodate visitors.

Some visitors get frustrated with long lines and slow food service. Others can’t believe the traffic would be so slow, or that places would run out of food or rooms. And it’s not that we’re not happy you’re here! We really are (most of the time 😉 ) happy to have people come enjoy the beautiful 49th state. Who wouldn’t want to visit Alaska, after all? It’s just hard to prepare for such an influx of people when there really isn’t the infrastructure or workforce to support that. It also takes time for supplies to get here, and things are often late to arrive. Even if business are prepared, other things may be running late. So, if things are slow try your best to go with the flow. That’s what we do. You’ll have a much happier trip overall.

In summertime you’ll see traffic backed up even in “the middle of nowhere”.

These mistakes to avoid when visiting Alaska are suggestions that I feel will help make your dream vacation go as smooth as possible. Many travelers only make it to Alaska once, and I want your trip to be all you hoped it would be. Although no trip is exactly “perfect”, a vacation to Alaska is about as close as you can get, and I hope you have a wonderful time visiting the Last Frontier.

How to Prepare for Rainy Days on Your Alaska Vacation

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I guess it’s only fitting that I start writing this while it’s pouring rain outside. Today I’ve seen sun, wind, clouds, and pouring rain within the past few hours. Just another average weather day in Alaska! But, what can you do to prepare for these rainy days on your Alaska vacation and continue to enjoy your time in the 49th State? Well, being a born and raised Alaskan has given me some insight into how to best deal with inclement weather, and I’ll share those tips below.

Kayaking the Moose River in Sterling, Alaska.
One minute you’re kayaking in sun, and the next you’re warming up by the fire after a rain.

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.

What is the weather usually like in Alaska?

To sum it up in one word, Alaskan weather is unpredictable. You can start off your day kayaking in shorts. A few hours later you’re bundled up in a sweatshirt, raincoat, and pants trying to warm up by a campfire. It’s a mixed bag and you never know what you’ll be getting. But, that shouldn’t dissuade you from getting out and having an adventure!

A lot of the weather you’ll experience will obviously depend on what season you visit and which part(s) of Alaska you travel to. But, how you prepare for the rain will remain much the same. With the right clothes, attitude, and backup plans you can make a rainy day a bright spot in your trip. As I said in my post about things to consider when planning an Alaska vacation, the thing to remember about the weather is although it might dictate how some of your plans go, don’t let it dictate your mood!

A rainbow after some rainy weather in Alaska.
Looking for the sunshine and that pot of gold!

What activities may be cancelled or delayed due to rainy days on my Alaska vacation?

Inclement weather can change some of your planned activities on your Alaska vacation. If you have a flightseeing tour to explore surrounding glaciers and mountains, bad weather could cancel or postpone your flight. Rough seas can occasionally cause glacier and wildlife cruises and fishing charters to be rescheduled, and dangerous weather conditions may have you canceling your hiking plans. Those are a few of the activities that may be cancelled or rescheduled due to poor weather conditions.

When will I know if my activities are cancelled due to weather?

Unfortunately, with the rapidly changing weather, you may not know about your cancelled excursion until last minute. The ever changing weather can also be a positive thing, though. One minute you may find out your flightseeing tour is cancelled, and an hour later the clouds could clear and give you safe flying weather to go on your adventure! But, if the weather doesn’t clear and your plans get changed this is where having a backup plan comes in handy.

Our glacier and wildlife cruise boat for the day.

How do I plan for a change in my Alaska vacation plans?

Planning for a hiccup in your travel plans is no different than planning for hiccups in daily life. You either have a backup plan or just wing it! Personally, I would do a little research and have a “plan B”. Let’s say you’ve got a flightseeing tour planned one day and a hike a couple days later. Before you leave for your vacation, check out some other popular activities in the area incase you need an alternate option due to weather. Alaska is full of adventure, so even on those days where the weather isn’t cooperating you can still find a variety of things to do!

What should I wear to enjoy my time outside even on inclement weather days?

Most Alaskan’s get outside in almost all weather conditions. If we didn’t, we’d be stuck inside a lot! To take advantage of all Alaska has to offer, in any type of weather, we wear layers. If your plans get cancelled due to weather, just layer up and give your backup plan a try, or check with locals to find a different activity to do. This summer packing list will give you some ideas of what to pack to enjoy your trip to the fullest, no matter the weather. Having a raincoat, warm socks, waterproof shoes (or a spare pair of shoes incase ones gets wet), a hat, and even HotHands will help keep you warm on those chilly, drizzly days.

Wearing layers on a windy glacier and wildlife cruise kept us warm.
Layering up can keep you enjoying the outdoors on cold and windy days.

What activities are best for rainy days in Alaska?

On rainy days you can layer up and head outside to spot wildlife, fish along lakes and rivers, view glaciers, visit the Reindeer Farm, Muskox Farm, AWCC, and more! Check out Alyeska and its Nordic Spa, or spend some time indoors at local gift shops (Check out our list of the perfect Alaskan souvenirs here!), museums, and educational centers such as the SeaLife Center.

No matter the weather there is always something exciting and adventurous to do in our great state! Just remember, just because the weather may be gloomy doesn’t mean you have to be! Go out, find adventure, and create lasting memories even when the Midnight Sun may not be shining!

If you have questions about traveling to Alaska feel free to leave a comment below, or sign up for the Everyday Alaska newsletter, and send me an email. You can also join the Everyday Alaska Travel Tips, Information, and Advice group, and/or our New to Alaska Tips, Information, and Advice group to ask any questions you may have. I’m happy to help you get the most out of your time in our beautiful Last Frontier!

Valdez, Seward, or Homer: Which Should You Visit?

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Should I visit Valdez, Seward, or Homer during my Alaska vacation? I’ve seen this question asked quite a bit in various groups, and the answer is dependent on many factors. How far do you want to travel? How much time do you have? Are you more interested in whale watching or halibut fishing? Do you like a small town feel or the hustle and bustle of a tourist town? Those questions and more will help you determine which costal Alaskan town to visit on your Alaska vacation.

Below, I’ll answer those question and give you local insight that will help you with planning your travel itinerary. If you’ve got limited time on your travels and need to decided between visiting Homer, Valdez, or Seward, this guide is a must read.

A serene day at the Valdez Harbor.

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.

How far do you want to travel?

This will be a big factor in determining which town to visit. If you’re basing yourself in Anchorage and don’t want to have a full day of driving to your destination, Homer and Seward will be your options. Seward will be the shortest of the two drives, being less than three hours, so you can even make a day trip there. Homer is about four hours away, so you’ll want to stay at least overnight there.

Valdez is about a six hour drive from Anchorage. If you have the time, this is the most beautiful drive of the three. Obviously, this is my personal opinion (And being born and raised in Valdez I may be a bit biased!), but the views and variety of scenery are breathtaking. If you are able to break the drive up and stay a night somewhere along the way that would be ideal. Also, with the drive being long, you’ll want to stay in Valdez long enough to explore.

Tip: Check out our local’s guide to Valdez to find some great spots to stop along your road trip.

If you’re traveling throughout Alaska and have no particular starting point or home base, but have time constraints that will allow a visit to only Seward, Homer, or Valdez, the next things to consider are activities you’d like to do and sights you want to see.

Tip: Be sure to factor in road construction, traffic, and weather conditions into these travel times. To learn more about things to consider when planning an Alaska vacation check out this article.

Welcome to Homer!

What activities would you like to do on your Alaska vacation?

Activities and excursions are somewhat similar in all these beautiful towns, but they vary enough to help narrow your decision down. Below, I’ll list some popular activities and which towns I’d recommend for each.

Glacier and Wildlife Cruise

Glacier and wildlife cruises are a popular excursion when visiting Alaska. Valdez and Seward are your options for these, and both are incredible. You’ll have the opportunity to see whales, puffins, otters, seals, glaciers, and more on cruises out of either location.

Our glacier and wildlife tour boat out of Seward.

Fishing

Homer is known as the “Halibut Fishing Capital of the World”, so you can correctly assume that the halibut fishing there must be good. But, you can also catch great halibut in Valdez and Seward.

All three locations also have salmon fishing. In Valdez you can fish for salmon off the rocks at Allison Point or on a charter. In Seward and Homer you can do the same; either fish on a charter boat or from the shore.

To narrow your choice down, consider the species of fish you’re after, when and what fish runs are occurring during the time you’ll be here, and which places still have charters available during the dates you want. The timing of your trip and your target fish species will help you narrow down the area you’d like to visit.

Tip: Book you fishing charter ASAP as they are very popular and book up well in advance.

Wood carving of man with halibut in Homer, Alaska.
Reel in a whopper like depicted in this Homer wood carving.

Hiking

I’d love to give you insight into the best hikes in Valdez, Seward, and Homer, but I don’t hike much so my qualifications in this category are null. But, I can suggest using AllTrails to view lists of popular trails, difficulty levels, and more.

Are there any specific sights you’d like to see on your Alaska adventures?

Although all of Alaska is beautiful, there are some places you’ll want to visit to see certain sights. From glaciers and moose to National Parks and boat harbors, I’ll suggest the best of the best below.

Wildlife

This is a bit of a tricky one since there is no guarantee of wildlife sightings, but some of these places will increase your chances of seeing certain animals. After living in Alaska over thirty years, I have a pretty good idea of where you’ll have the best chances to see specific critters.

Tip: Keep in mind that what season you visit will effect what animals you’ll see. Check out a complete Alaskan wildlife bucket list here!

If you want to see whales, head to Seward or Valdez and hop aboard a glacier and wildlife cruise. This goes for most marine life, as I’ve had some great wildlife sightings on these cruises. You can usually spot otters and check out tide pools in Homer, but if you want to have a better chance of seeing the bigger animals, I’d opt for Seward or Valdez.

Moose. A popular highlight of many people’s trip! You may see them along the road to Valdez, but you likely won’t see them in town. You’ll have a chance to see them on your way down to Seward, and you’re almost (but not quite!) guaranteed to see them while driving to Homer and in Homer itself.

Bears can be spotted along the way to any of these places if you’re lucky. But, your best chance of seeing bears in the wild is in Valdez. You can see them on the way to town, in town, and at Allison Point eating salmon.

Look up for eagles! You can see eagles in Homer, Valdez, and Seward. Where there’s harbors and fish, you’ll find the eagles!

A bear hanging out after dinner across the bay in Valdez.

Harbors

Speaking of harbors, which one is the best? They’re all fun to check out, so no matter which town you choose to visit, I’d make time to walk around the harbor. You’ll likely see a sea otter, and it’s pretty entertaining to read all the boat names, too!

Checking out the Homer Harbor with our pup.

Glaciers

There are tons of glaciers around Alaska, so you have a vast amount of options to view them. Comparing Valdez, Homer, and Seward for glacier viewing experiences, though, I would rate Valdez first. You can see Worthington Glacier when driving into Valdez, view Valdez Glacier by kayak, and take a glacier cruise. Seward would be my next choice, with glacier cruises and a visit to Exit Glacier being popular ways to view these colossal mounds of ice.

Tips: Are you looking for the best ways to see glaciers around Alaska? My glacier viewing guide can help you find the best ways and places to see these magnificent sights.

A blue glacier on a clear day out of Seward, Alaska.
A glacier we viewed on a cruise out of Seward.

National Parks

If you want to check another National Park off your bucket list, visit Seward. You can explore the beautiful Kenai Fjords National Park from there. Or, on your drive to Valdez you can stop at a Wrangell St. Elias National Park visitor center and view a slice of America’s largest National Park.

Scenery

This is really a subjective category. Personally, I have to put Valdez first. Maybe I has to do with my bias after living there most of my life, but it’s one of my three favorite places in the world. The mountains, waterfalls, glaciers, and the drive in really seal the deal for me. Homer would be second. The views of the bay, surrounding mountains, and beaches are quite amazing. Next up would be Seward. You can’t beat those big, beautiful trees, mountains, and costal views. No matter which you choose, you’ll have fantastic scenery to view since you’d be hard pressed to find a bad view in Alaska.

Sunset in Thompson Pass on the way to Valdez.

Of the three, does Valdez, Seward, or Homer have better weather?

The weather you’ll have on your vacation, and the scenery that’s visible, will vary greatly depending on which season you visit. Weather in Alaska is unpredictable, though, no matter what time of year. I’m writing this in June. It just got warm enough to plant my garden, and some areas recently had snow, so you never know what you’ll get.

If you’re in any of these towns for any length of time, you’ll see rain. Valdez and Seward tend to see more rain than Homer, though, so you may have a better chance of sunny days in Homer.

During the winter you’ll see snow in all these towns, but it varies depending on the area. Valdez is one of the snowiest towns in the world, Seward also gets an abundance of snow, and Homer tends to get a bit of snow, but it doesn’t get too snowy there.

Mural of whales in Seward, Alaska.
A mural in Seward by the SeaLife Center.

Are there things to do in these places year round?

Seward, Homer, and Valdez are seasonal, as is the rest of Alaska, as far as tourism activities go. They are all very busy and bustling in the summer, but when the snow and cold start to creep in seasonal business and activities close up.

Seward and Valdez are less “touristy” than Homer, though. Of the three, Valdez is likely the most popular during the “off season” due to the immense amount of snow making it a famous destination for winter sports such as snowmachining (snowmobiling), skiing, and snowboarding. Homer has the popular Winter King Salmon Tournament in March, and there are winter fishing options in Seward as well.

Plan a visit to the Seward SeaLife Center.

Which has the best food: Valdez, Seward, or Homer?

As mentioned above, all of these costal Alaska towns are seasonal. There are restaurants in each place that are open year round, but many of the food trucks and smaller restaurants you’ll see are just open during summertime.

I would say Homer has the best variety of food options. There are a number of great places to eat, and a handful of them stay open all year. Many of the places you’ll find on the Homer Spit are only open for summer, though. There’s a tie for Seward and Valdez being second. Very few places are open during winter, but food trucks and seasonal vendors widen your options during summertime.

Captain Pattie’s In Homer
Visiting Captain Pattie’s for halibut in Homer.

Are you looking for the journey or destination?

Now, I have a question for you! Are you all about the journey or destination? If a long, scenic drive through the vast beauty of Alaska doesn’t intrigue you, choose between Homer or Seward. Both of these destinations will likely be shorter drives for you, depending on where your starting point is. They are both scenic trips through the Kenai Peninsula, but much shorter than the drive to Valdez.

There are more “tourist” type activities on the Peninsula than there are in Valdez, but personally I think the journey to Valdez, and the scenery you’ll experience there beats any type of paid excursions you could do elsewhere. So, if you’re looking for a beautiful journey and destination, choose Valdez. If you’re wanting a shorter trip and a few more activities, choose Seward or Homer.

Would you choose to visit Valdez, Seward, or Homer?

If someone asked for my opinion on which of the three to visit, I would choose Valdez first, Seward second, and Homer third. Consider this a very biased opinion, though, as I was born and raised in Valdez. The drive there, the people, the views, and the wildlife are unmatched. Although I live on the Kenai Peninsula now, and enjoy visiting Seward and Homer just as much as the next person, there’s no place like home.

I know this is a lot of information to digest, but I hope it give you the insight you need to plan the best trip for you! If you have questions about traveling to Alaska feel free to leave a comment below, or sign up for the Everyday Alaska newsletter, and send me an email.

You can also join the Everyday Alaska Travel Tips, Information, and Advice group, and/or our New to Alaska Tips, Information, and Advice group to ask any questions you may have. I’m happy to help you get the most out of your time in our beautiful Last Frontier!

A 7 Day Kenai Peninsula Itinerary: A Local’s Guide to the Perfect Kenai Peninsula Adventure

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Planning a trip to Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula can be a bit overwhelming. With such a huge variety of things to do, it’s hard to narrow down the places to see and activities to do. That’s why I’ve created this seven day Kenai Peninsula itinerary to help you plan the perfect trip.

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.

Who is this itinerary for?

This itinerary is for anyone who is planning a trip to the Kenai Peninsula. I’ll be making a few different itineraries geared towards specific interests such as wildlife viewing, hiking, and fishing, too. Feel free to follow one specific travel guide, or take pieces from each and make up your own. This particular one is the itinerary I would create for myself if I were visiting the Peninsula for a week. It includes my favorite things to do and see, which I hope you’ll love, too.

What activities should we include in our itinerary?

Great question! I’ve included my favorite Kenai Peninsula activities and places in the itinerary below for you to check out. This travel guide has a mixed bag of activities, but, as state above, I’ll create ones catered to wildlife viewing, fishing, hiking and more as time goes on. What you choose to do will depend on your interests, abilities, and the time of year you visit.

A collared cow moose and one of her twin calves on the Kenai Peninsual.
A collared moose and one of her twins on the Kenai Peninsula.

What do I need to know before I travel to the Kenai Peninsula?

Check out this list of things to consider when planning an Alaska vacation. This travel advice will give you insight into what to plan for and expect on your Alaskan adventure.

When are the activities on this Kenai Peninsula travel planner available?

Many of these activities are seasonal, so it will depend on what time of year you’re visiting to what activities will be available. Things start to open up and become more busy during May. The season tapers off in early September, with business’s changing to winter hours or closing for the season. But, if you’re coming to Alaska during the “off season”, check out my winter bucket list for some fun winter activities!

Where does this travel itinerary take us?

All over the Kenai Peninsula! Cooper Landing, Seward, Soldotna, Hope, Homer, and more! For this itinerary I’m assuming you’ll be traveling by car from Anchorage rather than flying into the Peninsula, so Anchorage is our starting point.

The welcome sign to Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula.
Enjoy your trip to the Kenai Peninsula!

Why should I use your itinerary?

As a lifelong Alaskan I’ve been very fortunate to travel all over Alaska. I’ve made the Kenai Peninsula my home for the last eight years and hope to show you the best ways to enjoy your time here. Obviously, you don’t need to use whole itinerary verbatim, but the travel plan listed below includes my favorite things to do on the Kenai Peninsula, and I’m excited to share them with you.

Day One

Get an early start to the day and enjoy a hearty breakfast before you leave Anchorage. Although you won’t have a long drive today, you’ll be on the road awhile since there are many great places to explore on your way to Soldotna, so don’t forget snacks for the road.

Tip: Before you hit the road, check out road and weather conditions for any delays along the way. You can find out about those here. Also, fill up your vehicle before you head out of Anchorage.

You’ll start your journey on the Seward Highway along the Turnagain Arm. You won’t be on the highway too long before you get to Girdwood, which is your first stop. Although it’s not technically on the Kenai Peninsula, it’s a fun stop to make on your way south. Here, you can explore this unique little community, and visit Alyeska Resort. Take a trip on their tram for some aerial views of glaciers, mountains, wildlife, and the resort itself. Depending on how busy it is, and how much you explore Girdwood, be prepared to spend an hour to an hour and a half here.

The Alyeska Resort tram in Girdwood, Alaska.
The Alyeska Resort Tram on its way up to the mountain.

Next up the is Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, just a short drive down the highway from Girdwood. This is one of my favorite stops as you can see so many amazing Alaskan critters in one place. This stop will be a minimum of an hour, but it really depends on how long you’d like to watch the animals and if you decide to do a tour or animal encounter while you’re there.

After you visit the center, it’s time to hit the road and head towards Cooper Landing. It will take roughly an hour to get there. Once in Cooper Landing, you can grab a bite to eat or snacks. The reason I’m including this stop in this seven day Kenai Peninsula itinerary is not only for the beautiful views and food, but for the wildlife viewing.

Dall sheep on the mountains near Cooper Landing on the Kenai Peninsula.
Dall sheep on the mountains near Cooper Landing.

While you’re in Cooper Landing, pull out your binoculars and glass the surrounding mountains for goats and Dall sheep. The agility of these animals is amazing to witness, and this is the perfect opportunity to spot some. Then we’re on to Soldotna.

Tip: To find the best places to view wildlife on the Kenai Peninsula, check out our Kenai Peninsula wildlife viewing guide.

After viewing wildlife in Cooper Landing, continue along the Sterling Highway into Soldotna. This is where you’ll stay for the night, and grab some dinner for tomorrow’s adventure.

Tip: If you’re looking for great places to eat in Soldotna, check out the list of my favorite local spots here.

Day Two

Soldotna is famous for its salmon fishing on the Kenai River, so take this opportunity to do a bit of fishing yourself! You can grab a pole and fish at the many public use areas along the river, or take a guided trip on the Kenai or nearby Kasilof River. Spend this day on the river, and then check out the visitor’s center to learn about local events like markets and concerts. Take time to explore shops such as Northcountry Fair, and grab a bite of some delicious local food. Then kick back for the night before you head to your next destination.

Tip: Before you go fishing, make sure you have your fishing license. Also, be sure to check out all of the rules and regulations first. You can loan gear from the local Fish and Game Office if you plan on going unguided. If all the regulations make going without a guide seem daunting, it may be best to book a fishing trip. Book ASAP, though, as they fill up quickly.

The Bluebird Cafe in Sterling, Alaska on the Kenai Peninsual.
Head to the nearby community of Sterling to eat at the Bluebird Cafe.

Day Three

We’re on the road again! Pack up your things, grab some food, and let’s head to Homer. Only an hour and a half away from Soldotna, Homer is a popular destination for visitors and locals alike. Spend the day on the Homer Spit visiting shops, eating, and walking the beach. After your time on the Spit, check out the Islands and Ocean Visitor’s Center to learn about Alaska history and wildlife. Wind down the evening with a stop at a local restaurant such as Fat Olives or AJ’s Oldtown Steakhouse.

Shops along the Homer Spit.

Day Four

For your second day in Homer, take advantage of the great halibut fishing. Homer is known as the “Halibut Fishing Capital of the World”, so book a charter in advance and hit the waters to catch the tastiest fish in Alaska. If you’re not interested in fishing, or are unable to book a charter, hop on the ferry and head to Seldovia.

You can explore much of the community of Seldovia on foot. It’s a beautiful little spot to spend some time, view wildlife, and then enjoy the boat ride back over to Homer before dinner.

Day Five

Now we’re off to one of my favorite towns on the Kenai Peninsula: Seward! This drive will take you over three hours, and possibly longer since there are many scenic places to stop along the way. Once you arrive in Seaward and get settled in, the first must-do activity is visiting the SeaLife Center.

The Alaska SeaLife Center is a fun, interactive, and educational center that supports wildlife rescue, research, and rehabilitation for Alaska’s marine wildlife. After your trip there, grab a bite to eat, and walk around town to see the various murals and visit local shops. Then, settle in for the night for a big excursion on day six!

Mural of whales in Seward, Alaska.
One of the many colorful murals in Seward.

Day Six

All aboard! Head out of the Seward Harbor on the adventure of a lifetime aboard a glacier and wildlife cruise. View the Kenai Fjords National Park, see epic glaciers, and get the opportunity to see whales, sea otters, puffins, porpoise, and more on this full day adventure. If you’re curious about the glacier and wildlife cruise experience, read more here. After your day on the water, it’s time to eat and get ready for the drive back to Anchorage tomorrow.

Tip: Are you wondering what to wear and bring on a glacier and wildlife day cruise? Check out my post about what to wear here.

Day Seven

Onto the last day of the seven day Kenai Peninsula itinerary. Today, you’ll be making your way back to Anchorage. This is about a two and a half hour drive, but you can take it as leisurely as you’d like depending on when you need to be back in Anchorage. I’d suggest stopping in the very small town of Hope on your way back, depending on how much time you have. It’s just a short detour off of the Seward Highway, and is a cute place to stop, walk around, and learn a bit about Alaska history. Then, you can cruise back on into Anchorage from there to wrap up your time on Alaska’s beautiful Kenai Peninsula.

This may not be the jam packed seven day Kenai Peninsula itinerary you were expecting. This is for good reason, though. Traveling in Alaska shouldn’t be rushed, overly planned, or stressful. I believe the best way to view our beautiful state is by taking as much time as you can, visiting with locals, enjoying the scenery, and not planning every minute of your stay here. Yes, there are things you have to plan ahead of time, but save some time to savor the experience, too.

I hope this week long Kenai Peninsula itinerary has helped you with your Alaska travel planning. If you have questions about traveling to Alaska feel free to leave a comment below, or sign up for the Everyday Alaska newsletter, and send me an email. You can also join the Everyday Alaska Travel Tips, Information, and Advice group, and/or our New to Alaska Tips, Information, and Advice group to ask any questions you may have. I’m happy to help you get the most out of your time in our beautiful Last Frontier!