Alaska, the largest and most rugged state in the U.S., is a land of vast wilderness, towering mountains, and abundant wildlife. Alaska is an adventure lover’s paradise with its breathtaking landscapes, unique culture, and numerous outdoor activities. For first-time visitors, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start exploring. Whether you’re seeking majestic glaciers, dramatic fjords, or a glimpse of the Northern Lights, Alaska offers something for every type of traveler. Here are the best places to visit in Alaska for first-timers.

1. Anchorage – The Gateway to Alaska

Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city, is the ideal starting point for first-time visitors. It serves as a gateway to the state’s stunning natural beauty and is surrounded by mountains, forests, and wildlife. Kincaid Park offers easy access to hiking trails and great views of the surrounding scenery, including the majestic Cook Inlet.

A visit to Flattop Mountain provides an easy but rewarding hike with panoramic views of Anchorage and the nearby peaks. The city also has several museums, such as the Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center, where you can learn about Alaska’s indigenous cultures, history, and art.

To taste Alaska’s wildlife, head to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, just a short drive from Anchorage. Here, you can see native animals like bison, moose, bears, and wolves in a natural setting.

2. Denali National Park – Home to North America’s Tallest Peak

No trip to Alaska is complete without visiting Denali National Park, home to Denali, the tallest mountain in North America at 20,310 feet. The park offers unparalleled opportunities for wildlife viewing, with animals like grizzly bears, caribou, and Dall sheep roaming freely in their natural habitats.

The Denali Park Road is a popular route for first-time visitors, as it offers scenic views of the mountain and the chance to spot wildlife. You can also take a guided bus tour deep into the park to maximize your chances of seeing the animals and landscapes up close.

For more adventurous travelers, Denali offers opportunities for hiking, mountaineering, and backcountry camping. However, for those looking for a more relaxed experience, a flightseeing tour will give you an aerial view of the majestic mountains and glaciers that make Denali so famous.

3. Seward – A Coastal Haven

Seward, located on the Kenai Peninsula, is a charming coastal town that offers stunning views of the waters of Resurrection Bay and the surrounding mountains. One of Seward’s biggest draws is its proximity to Kenai Fjords National Park, a place known for its dramatic coastal scenery, tidewater glaciers, and abundant marine life.

Taking a boat tour through the fjords is a must for first-time visitors. On these tours, you may spot orcas, humpback whales, sea otters, and puffins, as well as witness the grandeur of glaciers calving into the sea. If you prefer to stay on land, the Exit Glacier offers accessible hiking trails, providing up-close views of a glacier with a backdrop of rugged mountains.

Seward is also home to the Alaska SeaLife Center, where visitors can learn about the region’s marine ecosystems and get close to sea otters, seals, and other aquatic life.

4. Juneau – Alaska’s Capital and Gateway to Glaciers

The capital of Alaska, Juneau, is located on the southern coast and can only be reached by boat or plane. Surrounded by steep mountains and glaciers, Juneau offers visitors a taste of Alaska’s rugged beauty. The Mendenhall Glacier, just a short drive from downtown, is one of Juneau’s most popular attractions. You can visit the glacier via the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, which offers easy access to walking trails with stunning views.

For those looking to experience the wilderness more intimately, Whale watching is a must in Juneau. The waters surrounding the town are rich with marine life, and you can take a boat tour to see humpback whales, orcas, and sea lions.

Another highlight of visiting Juneau is the Mount Roberts Tramway, which takes you up to the top of Mount Roberts for incredible panoramic views of Juneau, the Gastineau Channel, and the surrounding mountains. Once at the top, enjoy hiking, wildlife viewing, and dining at the mountaintop restaurant.

5. Fairbanks – The Land of the Northern Lights

If you’re traveling to Alaska in the winter months, Fairbanks is one of the best places to experience the mesmerizing Northern Lights. The city, located in the interior of the state, is known for its stunning aurora displays, particularly from September to April. The Chena Hot Springs Resort is a popular spot for viewing the lights while relaxing in the natural hot springs.

In addition to the Northern Lights, Fairbanks offers several other unique experiences, including the Mushing Experience—a chance to ride in a sled pulled by Alaskan Huskies—or visiting the Fairbanks Ice Museum, where you can marvel at intricately carved ice sculptures.

For a glimpse into Alaska’s history, a visit to the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center offers insights into the traditions of the indigenous cultures of the region.

6. Glacier Bay National Park – A World of Glaciers and Wildlife

For a truly unforgettable experience, Glacier Bay National Park should be on your list. Located in southeastern Alaska, this remote park is accessible by boat or small plane and offers visitors some of the best glacier viewings in the state. The park is home to spectacular tidewater glaciers, which calve into the ocean, creating dramatic displays of ice and water.

One of the best ways to explore Glacier Bay is by taking a cruise or kayak tour, where you can glide past towering cliffs, pristine beaches, and ancient glaciers. Wildlife is abundant in the area, with sightings of humpback whales, sea otters, and puffins common.

Glacier Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a pristine wilderness experience with unmatched natural beauty.

7. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park – A Hidden Gem for Adventurers

For those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park offers a stunning blend of rugged mountains, glaciers, and wildlife. As the largest national park in the United States, it’s an ideal destination for those who want to experience Alaska’s wild side without the crowds.

The park is home to several glaciers, including the massive Columbia Glacier, and offers fantastic opportunities for hiking, backpacking, and mountaineering. For first-time visitors, guided tours are available to help navigate the park’s remote terrain.

Conclusion

Alaska is a dream destination for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and anyone who appreciates jaw-dropping scenery. Whether you’re taking in the views of Denali, exploring the Kenai Fjords, or witnessing the Northern Lights in Fairbanks, Alaska offers something for everyone. The best places to visit in Alaska provide a unique combination of wildlife, glaciers, and outdoor adventure, making it the ultimate destination for first-time travelers seeking to experience the beauty of the Last Frontier.

• Country: United States