List of State Attractions

I. National Land

National Parks

Denali National Park and Preserve
Home to North America’s tallest mountain, Denali National Park spans over six million acres of untouched wilderness. Visitors can explore taiga forests, alpine tundra, and glacial rivers. Wildlife is abundant, including moose, wolves, grizzly bears, and Dall sheep. Scenic bus tours along Denali Park Road offer panoramic views and backcountry access.
Location: Near Healy, AK
Website: https://www.nps.gov/dena
Phone: (907) 683-9532
Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve
A true wilderness with no roads or trails, this remote park lies entirely north of the Arctic Circle. It features rugged peaks, arctic valleys, and caribou migrations. Ideal for experienced backcountry travelers, it offers solitude, river paddling, and cultural connections with Alaska Native communities.
Location: Bettles, AK (access by air only)
Website: https://www.nps.gov/gaar
Phone: (907) 692-5494
Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve
Accessible mainly by boat or plane, Glacier Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing tidewater glaciers, fjords, and marine wildlife like humpback whales and sea lions. Kayaking, cruises, and ranger-led programs offer breathtaking views and educational opportunities.
Location: Gustavus, AK
Website: https://www.nps.gov/glba
Phone: (907) 697-2230
Katmai National Park and Preserve
Famous for brown bears fishing at Brooks Falls, Katmai also features the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, a vast volcanic landscape. Fly-in only, it offers world-class bear viewing, fishing, hiking, and backcountry camping.
Location: King Salmon, AK
Website: https://www.nps.gov/katm
Phone: (907) 246-3305
Kenai Fjords National Park
This coastal park highlights the Harding Icefield and its many glaciers. Boat tours from Seward reveal marine wildlife, while the Exit Glacier area offers hiking trails and ranger talks. Kayaking is popular for closer views of tidewater glaciers.
Location: Seward, AK
Website: https://www.nps.gov/kefj
Phone: (907) 422-0500
Kobuk Valley National Park
Home to the Great Kobuk Sand Dunes and caribou migration routes, this remote park offers river journeys and scenic flights. It’s one of the least visited parks due to its remoteness but delivers unparalleled wilderness.
Location: Kotzebue, AK (no roads, fly-in only)
Website: https://www.nps.gov/kova
Phone: (907) 442-3890
Lake Clark National Park and Preserve
This park combines active volcanoes, salmon streams, turquoise lakes, and remote lodges. It’s ideal for bear viewing, fishing, flightseeing, and backcountry adventures. Access is typically by small plane.
Location: Port Alsworth, AK
Website: https://www.nps.gov/lacl
Phone: (907) 781-2117
Wrangell–St. Elias National Park and Preserve
America’s largest national park, this vast wilderness is larger than Yellowstone, Yosemite, and Switzerland combined. It contains glaciers, mining history, and four major mountain ranges. Activities include glacier hiking, rafting, and visiting the historic Kennecott copper mill.
Location: Copper Center, AK
Website: https://www.nps.gov/wrst
Phone: (907) 822-5234

National Wildlife Refuges

Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge
This expansive refuge stretches across over 2,500 islands, headlands, and coastal areas from the Aleutians to the Inside Passage. It protects millions of seabirds, seals, and marine habitats. Visitors can access parts of the refuge via boat tours or by visiting the Alaska Islands and Ocean Visitor Center in Homer.
Location: Headquarters in Homer, AK
Website: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/alaska-maritime
Phone: (907) 235-6546
Arctic National Wildlife Refuge
One of the most pristine ecosystems in North America, Arctic NWR spans tundra, rivers, mountains, and coastlines. It’s home to polar bears, caribou herds, muskoxen, and migratory birds. It offers true wilderness for hikers, paddlers, and wildlife photographers.
Location: Fairbanks Field Office, Fairbanks, AK
Website: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/arctic
Phone: (907) 456-0250
Becharof National Wildlife Refuge
Adjacent to Katmai National Park, Becharof features volcanic mountains, tundra, and a massive lake that supports salmon and brown bears. It’s a prime destination for fishing and wildlife viewing, especially for birders.
Location: King Salmon, AK
Website: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/becharof
Phone: (907) 246-3339
Innoko National Wildlife Refuge
A mosaic of wetlands and forested uplands, Innoko is an essential breeding ground for waterfowl. It’s remote and mostly visited by floatplane for birdwatching, subsistence hunting, and research.
Location: McGrath, AK
Website: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/innoko
Phone: (907) 524-3251
Izembek National Wildlife Refuge
Located on the Alaska Peninsula, Izembek is famous for its vast eelgrass beds, which attract hundreds of thousands of migratory birds including black brant. Its lagoons and volcanic landscapes support rare wildlife.
Location: Cold Bay, AK
Website: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/izembek
Phone: (907) 532-2445
Kenai National Wildlife Refuge
A popular and accessible refuge near Soldotna, this area offers hiking, fishing, canoe trails, and winter recreation. It protects moose, bears, lynx, and thriving salmon streams.
Location: Soldotna, AK
Website: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/kenai
Phone: (907) 262-7021
Koyukuk National Wildlife Refuge
This refuge encompasses wetlands and boreal forests along the Koyukuk River. It's rich in moose, waterfowl, and fish, and provides excellent subsistence and wilderness recreation opportunities.
Location: Galena, AK
Website: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/koyukuk
Phone: (907) 656-1231
Nowitna National Wildlife Refuge
Known for its scenic river and intact boreal forest ecosystem, Nowitna is ideal for remote float trips and wildlife observation. The refuge supports wolves, beavers, bald eagles, and spawning fish.
Location: Galena, AK
Website: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/nowitna
Phone: (907) 656-1231
Selawik National Wildlife Refuge
Located in northwest Alaska, Selawik features wetlands, hot springs, and tundra ecosystems. It supports migratory birds and caribou, and includes parts of the Western Arctic Caribou Herd’s range.
Location: Kotzebue, AK
Website: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/selawik
Phone: (907) 442-3799
Yukon Delta National Wildlife Refuge
Covering a massive river delta, this refuge is one of the world’s largest, providing breeding grounds for millions of migratory birds. Accessible via Bethel, it supports both wildlife and subsistence lifestyles.
Location: Bethel, AK
Website: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/yukon-delta
Phone: (907) 543-3151

National Recreation Areas

Chugach National Recreation Area
A portion of the larger Chugach National Forest, this recreation area lies near Anchorage and offers easily accessible adventures including hiking, camping, skiing, glacier tours, and wildlife viewing. Popular spots include Eklutna Lake, Crow Pass, and the Eagle River Nature Center.
Location: Near Anchorage, AK
Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/chugach
Phone: (907) 743-9500

National Monuments

Admiralty Island National Monument
Known as the "Fortress of the Bears," this Southeast Alaska island supports one of the highest brown bear densities in the world. Canoe routes, remote cabins, and old-growth rainforest hikes make it a favorite for adventurers and wildlife watchers.
Location: Southeast of Juneau, AK
Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/tongass/recarea/?recid=78601
Phone: (907) 586-8800
Aniakchak National Monument and Preserve
One of the least visited units in the National Park system, Aniakchak features a 6-mile-wide volcanic caldera, wild rivers, and backcountry wilderness. It's accessible only by chartered aircraft and offers remote hiking, rafting, and fishing.
Location: Alaska Peninsula, near Port Heiden
Website: https://www.nps.gov/ania
Phone: (907) 246-3305
Cape Krusenstern National Monument
Located along the Chukchi Sea, this coastal monument includes archaeological sites spanning 5,000 years, along with tundra landscapes and subsistence hunting grounds for local Iñupiat communities.
Location: Northwest of Kotzebue, AK
Website: https://www.nps.gov/cakr
Phone: (907) 442-3890
Russell Fjord National Monument
This glacial fjord, adjacent to Wrangell–St. Elias, is part of the largest international protected wilderness area. It features dramatic icefields, tidewater glaciers, and supports marine and terrestrial wildlife.
Location: Near Yakutat, AK
Website: https://www.nps.gov/wrst/learn/nature/russell-fjord.htm
Phone: (907) 822-5234
Wrangell–St. Elias National Monument
Wrangell–St. Elias is dual-designated as both a national park and a monument, protecting enormous mountain ranges, glaciers, and historic sites. Its sheer size and terrain offer endless exploration.
Location: Copper Center, AK
Website: https://www.nps.gov/wrst
Phone: (907) 822-5234

National Historic Parks

Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park
This park preserves the story of the 1890s gold rush, focusing on Skagway's boomtown history and the arduous journey to the gold fields. Restored buildings, museums, ranger tours, and nearby Chilkoot Trail hikes bring the gold rush era to life.
Location: Skagway, AK
Website: https://www.nps.gov/klgo
Phone: (907) 983-9200
Sitka National Historical Park
Alaska’s oldest national park, Sitka preserves the site of a historic Tlingit-Russian battle and celebrates the region’s Indigenous culture and Russian colonial past. Totem poles line a coastal trail through lush forest.
Location: Sitka, AK
Website: https://www.nps.gov/sitk
Phone: (907) 747-0110

National Scenic Area

Misty Fjords National Monument (Scenic Area)
Located within the Tongass National Forest, Misty Fjords features dramatic granite cliffs, waterfalls, and rainforest valleys. Accessible via cruise, plane, or boat from Ketchikan, it's often called "The Yosemite of the North."
Location: Near Ketchikan, AK
Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/tongass/recarea/?recid=78703
Phone: (907) 225-2148

II. State Land

State Parks

Chugach State Park
One of the largest state parks in the U.S., Chugach spans nearly 500,000 acres just outside Anchorage. Visitors enjoy hiking, wildlife watching, camping, rock climbing, and glacier viewing. Popular destinations include Eklutna Lake, Flattop Mountain, and Eagle River.
Location: Anchorage, AK
Website: http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/chugach
Phone: (907) 345-5014
Denali State Park
Located across the river from Denali National Park, this scenic park offers views of Denali itself, with hiking trails, campgrounds, and overlooks such as the popular Kesugi Ridge Trail. A great alternative for those seeking solitude near the national park.
Location: South of Denali National Park, AK
Website: http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/denali
Phone: (907) 745-3975
Totem Bight State Historical Park
This park near Ketchikan preserves 14 colorful totem poles and a community clan house, representing the heritage of Tlingit and Haida peoples. Set along the waterfront, it's both culturally rich and visually striking.
Location: Ketchikan, AK
Website: http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/totembgh.htm
Phone: (907) 465-4563
Wood-Tikchik State Park
The largest state park in the U.S., Wood-Tikchik covers over 1.6 million acres of pristine lakes, rivers, and tundra. Remote and wild, it is popular for canoeing, fishing, and fly-in camping.
Location: Near Dillingham, AK
Website: http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/woodtik.htm
Phone: (907) 842-2641
Big Delta State Historical Park
Located along the historic Valdez Trail, this park showcases Rika’s Roadhouse and other preserved frontier-era buildings. It provides a glimpse into pioneer life during Alaska’s gold rush.
Location: Big Delta, AK
Website: http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/bigdelta.htm
Phone: (907) 451-2698
Shuyak Island State Park
This remote marine park north of Kodiak Island is prized for its dense forests, protected bays, and wildlife including sea otters, puffins, and whales. Sea kayaking and cabin stays are highlights.
Location: Shuyak Island, AK (accessible by boat or plane)
Website: http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/shuyak.htm
Phone: (907) 269-8400
Independence Mine State Historical Park
Nestled in the Talkeetna Mountains, this park preserves the remnants of a gold mining operation from the 1930s. Visitors can tour restored buildings, hike alpine trails, and learn about Alaska’s mining past.
Location: Hatcher Pass, near Palmer, AK
Website: http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/indmine.htm
Phone: (907) 745-3975
Chena River State Recreation Area
A popular destination for Fairbanks residents, this park offers year-round outdoor activities including hiking, camping, dog mushing, and paddling. The Angel Rocks Trail and Chena Hot Springs are nearby highlights.
Location: East of Fairbanks, AK
Website: http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/chena/
Phone: (907) 451-2695
Fort Abercrombie State Historical Park
Located on Kodiak Island, this park combines WWII-era military ruins with ocean vistas and spruce forests. Visitors can hike coastal trails, observe seabirds, and explore the Kodiak Military History Museum.
Location: Kodiak, AK
Website: http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/fortaber.htm
Phone: (907) 486-6339
Summit Lake State Recreation Site
A picturesque roadside park along the Richardson Highway, this alpine lake is a favorite for boating, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. It offers dramatic views of the Alaska Range and easy access for travelers.
Location: Between Paxson and Glennallen, AK
Website: http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/summit.htm
Phone: (907) 451-2698

State Wildlife Areas

Palmer Hay Flats State Game Refuge
A wetland-rich area just north of Anchorage, this refuge supports migratory waterfowl and moose and offers boardwalks and viewing platforms for birdwatchers and photographers.
Location: Near Wasilla, AK
Website: https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=palmerhayflats.main

State Beaches

Anchor River State Recreation Area
One of the few accessible beach parks on Alaska’s road system, this area is known for camping, bald eagle viewing, and saltwater fishing on the Cook Inlet coastline.
Location: Anchor Point, AK
Website: http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/anchoriv.htm

State Scenic Areas

McHugh Creek Scenic Overlook
A popular roadside stop along the Seward Highway, this area offers waterfalls, picnic spots, and sweeping views over Turnagain Arm, with interpretive signs and easy walking trails.
Location: South of Anchorage, AK
Website: http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/chugach/mchugh.htm

III. Private Attractions

Zoos, Botanical Gardens and Aquariums

Alaska Zoo
Located in Anchorage, the Alaska Zoo features native and exotic animals including polar bears, musk oxen, wolves, moose, and Amur tigers. The zoo is active in conservation and education programs, with trails winding through forested enclosures.
Location: 4731 O’Malley Road, Anchorage, AK 99507
Website: https://www.alaskazoo.org
Phone: (907) 346-2133
Alaska SeaLife Center
A combination public aquarium and marine research center, this popular Seward destination lets visitors view puffins, sea lions, harbor seals, and touch tanks of intertidal life. Interactive exhibits highlight Alaska’s ocean ecosystems and ongoing conservation work.
Location: 301 Railway Ave, Seward, AK 99664
Website: https://www.alaskasealife.org
Phone: (907) 224-6300
Georgeson Botanical Garden
Located on the University of Alaska Fairbanks campus, this public garden showcases hardy arctic and subarctic plants, experimental crops, and themed display beds. Ideal for visitors interested in Alaska’s unique growing environment.
Location: 117 W Tanana Dr, Fairbanks, AK 99775
Website: https://www.georgesonbotanicalgarden.org
Phone: (907) 474-7222

Major Museums

Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center
Alaska’s largest museum explores art, science, history, and Indigenous culture. Highlights include immersive exhibitions, the Smithsonian Arctic Studies Center, planetarium shows, and hands-on science discovery for children.
Location: 625 C Street, Anchorage, AK 99501
Website: https://www.anchoragemuseum.org
Phone: (907) 929-9200
University of Alaska Museum of the North
Located in Fairbanks, this museum features expansive exhibits on natural history, Alaskan Native cultures, contemporary art, and Arctic research. The building itself is a striking piece of architecture inspired by the northern landscape.
Location: 1962 Yukon Drive, Fairbanks, AK 99775
Website: https://www.uaf.edu/museum
Phone: (907) 474-7505
Alaska State Museum
Based in Juneau, the Alaska State Museum features exhibits on Southeast Alaska’s history, the gold rush, Alaska Natives, and Russian colonial heritage. It also showcases artifacts and fine arts from across the state.
Location: 395 Whittier Street, Juneau, AK 99801
Website: https://lam.alaska.gov/museum
Phone: (907) 465-2901

Amusement and Water Parks

H2Oasis Indoor Waterpark
One of the northernmost waterparks in the world, H2Oasis is located in Anchorage and features a lazy river, wave pool, body slides, a kiddie pool, and a large enclosed water dome. It's open year-round and popular with families and travelers.
Location: 1520 O’Malley Road, Anchorage, AK 99507
Website: https://www.h2oasiswaterpark.com
Phone: (907) 522-4420
Alaska State Fair (Seasonal)
Held annually in Palmer, the state fair features amusement rides, agricultural displays, live music, crafts, and record-setting vegetables. It’s one of the largest events in Alaska and a great way to experience local culture.
Location: 2075 Glenn Hwy, Palmer, AK 99645
Website: https://www.alaskastatefair.org
Phone: (907) 745-4827

IV. Major Shopping Centers

Dimond Center
The largest enclosed shopping mall in Alaska, Dimond Center features over 100 stores, including national retailers, a food court, movie theater, bowling alley, and ice skating rink. It’s a major retail and entertainment hub in south Anchorage.
Location: 800 E Dimond Blvd, Anchorage, AK 99515
Website: https://www.dimondcenter.com
Phone: (907) 344-2581
Tikahtnu Commons
An open-air power center with big-box retailers, restaurants, and a 16-screen Regal Cinemas theater. It’s one of Anchorage’s largest shopping destinations and includes chains like Target, Best Buy, Ulta, and Cabela’s.
Location: 1142 North Muldoon Rd, Anchorage, AK 99504
Website: https://www.tikahtnucommons.com
Phone: (907) 277-8521
5th Avenue Mall
Located in downtown Anchorage, this Nordstrom-anchored indoor mall offers upscale shopping with a mix of national brands and boutique stores. It’s easily walkable from hotels and cruise buses, making it popular with tourists.
Location: 320 W 5th Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501
Website: https://www.simon.com/mall/5th-avenue-mall
Phone: (907) 276-4200
Bentley Mall
Fairbanks' main shopping mall, Bentley Mall is a compact but useful center with a Safeway, Michaels, and several specialty shops. It serves the retail needs of interior Alaska residents and visitors alike.
Location: 32 College Rd, Fairbanks, AK 99701
Website: https://www.facebook.com/bentleymallfairbanks/
Phone: (907) 452-6066