Best Things to do in Alaska During Christmas: Top Attractions

Alaska, the Last Frontier, is a destination like no other. Its untamed wilderness, breathtaking landscapes, and diverse wildlife make it a haven for adventurers and nature enthusiasts. Alaska offers something for everyone, whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights, hiking to glaciers, or cruising through fjords. In this guide, we’ll compare and contrast the best places to visit and activities to try, helping you craft your perfect Alaskan adventure.

10 Things to do in Alaska During Christmas

1. A Tale of Two Cities – Anchorage vs. Juneau

• Anchorage

As Alaska’s largest city, Anchorage combines the comforts of urban living with easy access to nature. Visitors can explore the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, home to rescued native animals, or enjoy a scenic bike ride along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, which offers stunning views of Cook Inlet and the Chugach Mountains. Anchorage also serves as a gateway to nearby attractions like Turnagain Arm and Portage Glacier.

Best for Travelers seeking a blend of city amenities and outdoor exploration.

• Juneau

Juneau, Alaska’s capital city, is nestled between the Gastineau Channel and towering mountains. Accessible only by air or sea, it offers a unique charm. A must-visit is the Mendenhall Glacier, where you can hike trails or take a guided kayak tour. The Mount Roberts Tramway provides panoramic views of the city and surrounding wilderness.

Best for: Those looking to experience coastal charm, glacier tours, and vibrant cultural heritage.

• Comparison

Anchorage is more accessible with a wider range of activities and urban conveniences, while Juneau is ideal for those seeking a picturesque and secluded escape.

2. National Parks – Denali vs. Kenai Fjords

• Denali National Park

Denali is Alaska’s crown jewel, home to the tallest peak in North America. Visitors can take a bus tour deep into the park, spotting wildlife like grizzly bears, moose, and wolves. Hiking trails range from beginner-friendly to challenging backcountry routes.

Best for: Land-based adventurers eager to immerse themselves in diverse ecosystems.

• Kenai Fjords National Park

Kenai Fjords showcases Alaska’s stunning coastal landscapes, with icy fjords and marine wildlife. A glacier cruise is the best way to experience the park, offering views of calving glaciers and opportunities to spot whales, seals, and puffins.

Best for: Water enthusiasts and wildlife lovers seeking marine adventures.

Comparison

Denali offers expansive land-based exploration, while Kenai Fjords focuses on marine ecosystems. Your choice depends on whether you prefer hiking and wildlife spotting or cruising through glaciers.

3. The Great Northern Lights – Fairbanks vs. Nome

• Fairbanks

Fairbanks is one of the best places to see the Aurora Borealis, especially between September and March. The city also offers hot springs and dog sledding experiences, making it a hub for winter activities. Don’t miss the Museum of the North to learn about Alaska’s rich history and culture.

Best for: Easy access to the Northern Lights and winter activities.

• Nome

For a more remote and off-the-beaten-path experience, Nome offers breathtaking aurora views without the crowds. Explore the Bering Land Bridge National Preserve, which provides a glimpse into Alaska’s ancient history, or try your hand at gold panning, a nod to Nome’s Gold Rush heritage.

Best for: Adventurous travelers seeking solitude and unique cultural experiences.

• Comparison

Fairbanks is more accessible and developed, offering a mix of activities, while Nome appeals to those looking for remoteness and a sense of discovery.

4. Cruising vs. Road Tripping

• Cruising Alaska’s Inside Passage

A cruise through the Inside Passage takes you to iconic spots like Glacier Bay National Park and charming coastal towns such as Ketchikan and Sitka. Cruise packages often include whale watching, kayaking, and glacier hike excursions.

Best for: Relaxed travelers who enjoy all-inclusive experiences and stunning coastal views.

• Driving the Alaska Highway

Driving the Alaska Highway offers unparalleled freedom to explore at your own pace. Highlights include stops at small towns, roadside wildlife sightings, and breathtaking landscapes. You’ll need to be prepared for long stretches without services, but the journey is worth it.

Best for: Independent travelers with a love for road trips and exploration.

• Comparison

Cruises provide convenience and a curated experience, while road trips offer flexibility and deeper immersion in Alaska’s wilderness.

Related Article: Romantic Things to Do in Alaska for Couples

5. Unique Experiences – Dog Sledding vs. Whale Watching

• Dog Sledding

Dog sledding is a quintessential Alaskan adventure. Locations like Seward, Girdwood, and Denali offer opportunities to mush your own team or ride with experienced guides. Summer visitors can try sledding on glaciers.

Best for Thrill-seekers and winter visitors looking for an iconic Alaskan experience.

• Whale Watching

Alaska’s coastal waters come alive in summer with humpback and orca whales. Popular whale-watching spots include Juneau, Sitka, and Seward. Many tours also include views of glaciers and other marine wildlife.

Best for Wildlife enthusiasts visiting in the warmer months.

• Comparison

Dog sledding offers a hands-on, adrenaline-packed experience, while whale watching is more serene and suitable for summer trips.

6. Glacier Bay National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Glacier Bay is a pristine wonderland of glaciers, fjords, and wildlife. Whether you explore by cruise ship or kayak, you’ll be mesmerized by towering ice formations and the chance to see whales, seals, and eagles.

Best for: Nature lovers and those seeking close encounters with glaciers.

7. Katmai National Park and Preserve

Known for its famous bear-viewing opportunities, Katmai is home to the iconic Brooks Falls, where brown bears gather to fish for salmon. Beyond the bears, Katmai features volcanic landscapes and wilderness perfect for hiking and exploring.

Best for: Wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.

8. Seward and the Alaska SeaLife Center

This charming coastal town is the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park. Visit the Alaska SeaLife Center, an aquarium and research facility, to learn about marine life and rehabilitation efforts for injured animals. Combine this with glacier tours and kayaking adventures for a well-rounded visit.

Best for: Families and marine wildlife enthusiasts.

9. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve

As the largest national park in the United States, Wrangell-St. Elias offers vast, untouched wilderness. Its rugged mountains, glaciers, and rivers provide a paradise for adventurers. Explore the historic Kennecott Mines, go rafting, or take a scenic flight over the park.

Best for: Hardcore adventurers and history buffs.

10. Barrow (Utqiaġvik)

Located at the northernmost tip of the United States, Barrow offers a unique Arctic experience. Learn about Inupiat culture, witness the midnight sun in summer, or marvel at the polar night during winter. The coastline offers dramatic views of the Arctic Ocean, and you might spot polar bears.

Best for: Travelers seeking a truly remote and cultural experience.

 

FAQ: What is Alaska Best Known For?

Alaska is best known for:

Breathtaking Landscapes:
Home to vast wilderness, towering mountains, expansive glaciers, and pristine forests, Alaska offers some of the world’s most stunning natural scenery.

The Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis):
Alaska is one of the top destinations to view the mesmerizing Northern Lights, particularly during winter months in areas like Fairbanks.

Abundant Wildlife:
The state is famous for its diverse wildlife, including bears, moose, bald eagles, whales, and salmon. National parks like Denali and Katmai are popular spots for wildlife enthusiasts.

Glaciers:
Alaska has over 100,000 glaciers and is renowned for its icy wonders, particularly in Glacier Bay National Park and Kenai Fjords National Park.

Outdoor Adventures:
Activities like dog sledding, hiking, fishing, and kayaking make Alaska a haven for adventure seekers.

Mount Denali:
Formerly known as Mount McKinley, Denali is the highest peak in North America and a major draw for climbers and sightseers.

Cruises and Scenic Waterways:
The Inside Passage and other coastal areas are world-famous for their beauty and are often explored via cruises.

Indigenous Cultures:
Alaska has rich indigenous cultures, including the Inupiat, Tlingit, and Yup’ik peoples, with traditions, art, and history deeply tied to the state.

Gold Rush History:
The Klondike Gold Rush played a significant role in Alaska’s history, and remnants of this era can still be explored in places like Skagway.

Midnight Sun and Polar Night:
Alaska experiences unique phenomena like the midnight sun in summer when daylight lasts for almost 24 hours, and polar night in winter when darkness lasts for prolonged periods.

These features make Alaska a unique and unforgettable destination for travelers from around the globe.

Conclusion

Alaska’s diverse attractions and activities mean there’s something for everyone, whether you’re an adventurer, nature lover, or cultural enthusiast. From Anchorage’s urban charm to Kenai’s icy fjords, each destination offers unique experiences. Choose based on your interests, travel style, and the season, and get ready for the trip of a lifetime.

Start planning your Alaskan adventure today and discover the magic of the Last Frontier!

Pro Tip: Bookmark this guide and refer to it as you plan your Alaskan itinerary.