Alaska
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Alaska

Alaska, United States

Alaska: Where Wild Wonders Never Cease Alaska. Just the name conjures images of towering glaciers, majestic mountains, and incredible wildlife encounters. This isn't just a vacation destination; it's a journey into a wor…

#Northernmost state in the US#Arctic wilderness#Glaciers#Wildlife#Midnight sun
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Alaska.

Top Hotels in Alaska

Top Flights to Alaska

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Alaska.

Tours

Anchorage Museum Visit

Discover Alaskan history and culture at Anchorage's premier museum.

Fairbanks Northern Lights Tour

Seek out the awe-inspiring Aurora Borealis in Fairbanks.

Sitka National Historical Park Journey

Walk through history with Tlingit and Haida totem poles and artifacts.

Ketchikan Waterfront Exploration

Delight in the lively atmosphere of Ketchikan's historic waterfront.

Shopping

Juneau Shopping Spree

Explore the vibrant shopping scene in Alaska's capital, Juneau.

Outdoor

Denali National Park Adventure

Explore the majestic Denali National Park, home to North America's highest peak.

Glacier Bay National Park Cruise

Experience the stunning glaciers and wildlife of Glacier Bay.

Seward Kenai Fjords Adventure

Explore the renowned Kenai Fjords National Park by sea and land.

Talkeetna Scenic Flightseeing

Take a breathtaking flightseeing tour over the rugged Alaskan landscape.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Alaska.

Currency
$ | USD | US Dollar
Population
The approximate estimated total population of Alaska is 733,000.
Languages
English, Russian, Spanish, various Alaska Native languages

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Alaska.

What people love

There are numerous pros to traveling to Alaska, located in the United States. Here are some detailed benefits of visiting Alaska:

  1. Stunning Scenery: Alaska is known for its breathtaking natural landscapes, including majestic mountains, glaciers, forests, and wildlife. The state offers a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

  2. Unique Wildlife: Alaska is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including bears, moose, whales, and eagles. Visitors have the opportunity to observe these animals in their natural habitats, making it a great destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

  3. Outdoor Activities: Alaska offers a wide range of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking, fishing, kayaking, wildlife viewing, and skiing. The state's vast wilderness provides endless opportunities for adventure and exploration.

  4. Northern Lights: Alaska is one of the best places in the world to witness the magical aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights. Visitors can experience this natural light display during the winter months in certain regions of the state.

  5. Cultural Experiences: Alaska has a rich cultural heritage, with indigenous communities that have inhabited the region for thousands of years. Visitors can learn about Alaska Native cultures, traditions, and art through museums, cultural centers, and local events.

  6. Alaska Railroad: The Alaska Railroad offers a unique way to explore the state's stunning landscapes, with routes that traverse mountains, forests, and coastal areas. The journey provides a scenic and relaxing way to experience Alaska's beauty.

  7. Summer Midnight Sun: In summer, parts of Alaska experience the phenomenon of the midnight sun, where the sun remains visible for nearly 24 hours a day. This unique experience allows visitors to enjoy extended daylight hours for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Overall, traveling to Alaska offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in pristine natural beauty, witness incredible wildlife, and experience a rich cultural heritage. Whether you're seeking adventure or tranquility, Alaska has something to offer every type of traveler.

What to know

Traveling to Alaska does have some potential downsides that visitors should be aware of:

  1. Weather Conditions: Alaska is known for its unpredictable and extreme weather conditions. Be prepared for cold temperatures, snow, rain, and strong winds, especially during the winter months.

  2. Remote Locations: Some parts of Alaska are very remote, with limited access to services and amenities. This could make it challenging in case of emergencies or if you require specific medical or other services.

  3. High Costs: Alaska can be an expensive destination due to its remote location and the high cost of living. Accommodation, food, transportation, and activities may be pricier compared to other destinations.

  4. Wildlife Encounters: While encountering wildlife can be a thrilling experience, it also comes with risks. Visitors should be cautious around animals such as bears and moose, and follow safety guidelines when exploring the wilderness.

  5. Limited Daylight: During the winter months, Alaska experiences very short daylight hours due to its high latitude. This may impact your sightseeing and outdoor activities, as well as your overall mood and energy levels.

  6. Lack of Infrastructure: Some parts of Alaska may lack modern infrastructure, such as paved roads and public transportation. This could make getting around more challenging, especially in remote areas.

  7. Isolation: Traveling to Alaska may make you feel isolated, especially if you are used to more populous or urban environments. It's important to be mentally prepared for the solitude that some parts of Alaska offer.

Overall, while Alaska is a beautiful and unique destination, travelers should be aware of these potential downsides and plan accordingly to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Certainly! Here is a detailed history of Alaska, including significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Early History and Indigenous Peoples:

  • Indigenous groups, including the Inuit, Aleut, and various Native American tribes such as the Tlingit and Haida, have lived in Alaska for thousands of years. They developed rich cultures and societies adapted to the harsh Arctic and sub-Arctic environments.

European Exploration and Russian America:

  • In 1741, Danish explorer Vitus Bering, sailing for Russia, made the first European contact with Alaska. Bering and his crew sighted the Alaskan mainland.
  • Russian fur traders, known as promyshlenniki, soon followed, drawn by the lucrative sea otter pelts.
  • In 1784, Grigory Shelikhov established the first permanent Russian settlement on Kodiak Island.
  • The Russian-American Company, chartered in 1799, effectively controlled the fur trade and Russian interests in Alaska.

Purchase by the United States:

  • By the mid-19th century, Russian interest in Alaska waned due to overhunting and financial pressure.
  • In 1867, U.S. Secretary of State William H. Seward negotiated the purchase of Alaska from Russia for $7.2 million, a transaction often referred to as "Seward's Folly" by its critics. The deal was finalized on October 18, 1867.

Gold Rush Era:

  • The discovery of gold in the late 19th century led to several gold rushes, notably the Klondike Gold Rush (1896-1899) and the Nome Gold Rush (1899-1909), attracting thousands of prospectors and settlers to the region.

Early 20th Century:

  • Alaska became a U.S. territory in 1912, following the passage of the Second Organic Act.
  • During World War II, the Aleutian Islands Campaign (1942-1943) became the only significant battle fought on American soil during the war, as Japanese forces occupied the islands of Attu and Kiska.

Statehood and Modern Era:

  • Alaska was admitted as the 49th state of the United States on January 3, 1959.
  • The discovery of oil in Prudhoe Bay in 1968 and the subsequent construction of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System in the 1970s transformed the state's economy.
  • The Exxon Valdez oil spill in 1989 was a significant environmental disaster, highlighting the risks of oil transportation.

Significant Landmarks and Figures:

  • Denali (Mount McKinley): The highest peak in North America, located in Denali National Park.
  • Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve: Known for its stunning glaciers and marine wildlife.
  • Sitka: Formerly the capital of Russian America, it has historical buildings such as the Russian Bishop's House and St. Michael's Cathedral.
  • Ted Stevens: A long-serving U.S. senator from Alaska, influential in state and national politics.
  • Sarah Palin: Governor of Alaska from 2006 to 2009 and the Republican vice-presidential candidate in 2008.

Alaska's rich history encompasses indigenous heritage, exploration, and its strategic significance, making it a unique part of the United States.