Alaska is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States, with over 2.7 million visitors in 2022.
Roughly 65% of visitors come by cruise ships, while the others (known as “independent travelers”) drive, fly, or take the Alaska Marine Highway ferry system.
Part of this popularity comes from the fact that Alaska is the perfect destination for couples, families, the elderly, young people, and everyone in between. Let’s look at a few of the most popular tours and excursions for tourists coming to Alaska.
Alaskan Wilderness Adventures
Alaska is home to over 600 named glaciers and thousands of others. Some of these amazing wonders can be seen on a cruise ship, but those wishing to get a closer look can book helicopter tours that allow them to actually walk on the ice.
Wildlife tours are another popular option, with visitors getting the chance to see brown bears, black bears, polar bears, mountain goats, puffins, moose, and more from a safe distance.
Not every animal is available on every Alaskan wildlife adventure, however, as they are living in the wild and their habits can be a little unpredictable.
Charter Fishing Expeditions
Another thing Alaska is known for is excellent fishing. You can catch halibut, salmon, trout, and much more. Both saltwater and freshwater fish swim the oceans, lakes, and rivers here, giving a wide variety of species to catch.
The best way to fish in Alaska is by booking a charter. This involves a knowledgeable local captain taking you out to the best fishing spots and helping you catch the fish of your dreams. Both half-day and full-day charters are available, allowing visitors to choose the one that works best for their schedule.
Ride The Alaska Railroad
The Alaska Railroad runs from the southern cruise ship port of Whittier up to Fairbanks in the northern interior, with stops in Anchorage, Wasilla, Seward, and several other locations. It also stops near Denali (formerly known as Mt. McKinley), the tallest mountain in the United States.
In addition to transporting passengers from one city to another, riding the Alaska Railroad gives visitors the opportunity to enjoy nature and potentially see wildlife along the way.
Gold Panning
Alaska is well-known for the gold rushes that brought thousands of prospectors from the Lower 48 and Canada in the late 1800s and early 1900s.
However, gold is still found in many parts of the state and visitors have the opportunity to pan for it themselves in designated locations across the state.
Although it is legal to pan for gold in public property throughout the state, it’s recommended for beginners to take a gold panning tour first. This will help them learn the proper technique from local experts before going out on their own. The most important part is the circular spinning motion to separate the sand from the gold.
Final Thoughts
Families coming by cruise ship or as independent travelers can enjoy Alaska charter fishing, Alaskan wilderness adventures, traveling on the Alaska Railroad, panning for gold, and more.
Although some of these can be experienced year-round, many visitor activities and locations are only open during the peak tourist season
of mid-May to mid-September, so families will want to plan ahead and make sure everything they want to do and see will be open when they arrive.