Top 4 Things To Do in Alaska

Alaska

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Last updated:
02.12.2021

The state of Alaska is a fantastic place to visit, and there are many things you can do while you're here. Whether you want to experience the beauty of glaciers or see humpback whales breaching in Homer, there's something for everyone. Thus, grab one of the Alaska tours, and let’s find out the best things to do while in Alaska.

1. Midnight Sun

There is nothing like the midnight sun in Alaska. It's a phenomenon that occurs during the summer months when the sun doesn't set completely, but rather hovers just below the horizon line, casting an endless glow of light over everything. This only happens near the poles, where no mountains or other geographical features block its path.

Midnight sun

Watching the midnight sun dip below the horizon is an experience that lucky travelers to Alaska will never forget. The water around you reflects reds and oranges from the sky, creating a beautiful reflection that lights up your surroundings.

What is more, Alaska is a land of majestic mountains, vast forests, and beautiful waterways. It is also home to the northernmost city in America, with a population large enough to qualify as a city. Furthermore, this city happens to be at the same latitude as Naples and Oslo, which means it gets more sunlight than any other place on earth during part of the year. Therefore, midnight Sun in Alaska is a fantastic time for those who want to experience this phenomenon first hand.

Midnight sun

The midnight sun gives travelers a unique chance for adventure since they can stick around after dark without worrying about missing something great! Thus, this unique phenomenon makes a trip to Alaska one of the most unforgettable experiences.

Quick Alaska Facts

  • Location: United States
  • Capital: Juneau
  • Largest city: Anchorage
  • Currency: American dollars (USD)
  • Population: 736,081

2. Northern Lights

Alaska is known for its plentiful wildlife, but did you know it's also home to the Northern Lights? It is no surprise that this natural phenomenon has become one of the main top things to do in Alaska. If you're looking for a chance to see this natural phenomenon in person, Alaska is an excellent choice.

Northern Lights

In case you haven’t heard of the northern lights, they are a phenomenon that has occurred for centuries. They appear in bands of light green, red, and blue colors. These lights are caused by charged particles from the sun colliding together with gases in our atmosphere. Although it is not possible to predict precisely when they will occur, there are certain factors that can help you maximize your chances of seeing them. As more daylight fades, the night sky in Alaska becomes darker, making the northern lights more visible between August and April. Additionally, Anchorage and Fairbanks are often cited as the best places to see the Northern Lights in the United States.

Activities:

  • Midnight Sun
  • Northern Lights
  • Glaciers and Icebergs
  • Whale Watching

3. Glaciers & Icebergs

The glaciers and icebergs of Alaska are indeed a sight to behold. This state is home to six out of the ten largest glaciers in America and two of the most visited icebergs on Earth. The Mendenhall Glacier, located near Juneau, is one of them. Its unique blue color makes it stand out from all others. If you're planning a trip up north any time soon, make sure you stop by at least one glacier or iceberg for an unforgettable experience!

Iceberg

Alaska is one of the top places where you can see glaciers and icebergs, which are both massive chunks of ice that float in water. Glaciers form when snow falls and does not melt. Over time, the snow compresses into ice and forms part of a glacier. Icebergs form when glaciers break off from the land or other icebergs. When this happens, huge pieces of ice end up floating in the water until they eventually melt away or sink to the bottom of the ocean. Hence, seeing glaciers and icebergs is, undoubtedly, a must do in Alaska!

Fact:
Alaska has an estimated 100,000 glaciers, ranging from tiny cirque glaciers to huge valley glaciers. There are more active glaciers and ice fields in Alaska than in the rest of the inhabited world. The largest glacier is the Malaspina at 850 square miles. Five percent of the state, or 29,000 square miles, is covered by glaciers.

4. Whale Watching

There is nothing quite like the feeling of embarking on a new adventure, and that's exactly what you get when you go whale watching in Alaska. This awe-inspiring experience lets you explore the great northern frontier while getting up close and personal with some of the most majestic creatures of all time.

Whale

Whale watching is one of the most exciting Alaska activities that you will never forget. These gentle, majestic creatures are what dreams are made of! From humpback whales to orca whales, there are plenty of options out there for everyone to enjoy. There is no better place on earth than Alaska for anyone who wants to go whale watching.

Whale

Moreover, whale watching in Alaska can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for some people. This is because there are so many different species of whales to see, and each one is unique in its own way. In addition, you have the opportunity to travel through all types of terrain while chasing these magnificent sea creatures from an airplane or boat, which makes it even more thrilling!

As you see, there are so many unique things to do in Alaska! Whether you are looking for an extreme experience or a getaway full of peace and quiet, Alaska has it all! Make sure to include these awe-inspiring activities in your itinerary and get the most out of your Alaska trip.