Alaska is the 49th state to join the United States, and is also often called the Land of the Midnight Sun. Depending on what time of year you visit this state, you may only have three or four hours of sunlight during the day. This makes for some very cold winters, and some beautiful and rugged landscapes to visit. Some areas in Alaska are completely inaccessible and inhabitable, but there are plenty of places for a tourist to visit with a family. Visiting Alaska is a once in a lifetime experience, and the following are all things that you should enjoy while you are there.
See A Glacier
It is estimated that there are over 100,000 glaciers in the state of Alaska. Over 3% of the entire land mass of Alaska is covered in glaciers. While you're here, check your Alaska map for the best places to see these giant pieces of ice, but remember to dress warm, as glaciers seem to make their own types of weather. Make sure you come prepared with at least a raincoat and gloves when you start looking for glaciers.
Visit Wildlife
Are you hoping to see bears, eagles, moose, or caribou? If so, you have picked the right state to visit. Both bald and golden eagles are plentiful in Alaska. Any time you hike throughout the state, it's necessary to take bear bells to warn the bears that you are coming ahead of time so they don't bother you. In Anchorage, there are times where moose will walk right down the street. You will feel as if you've entered an entirely different world when you visit Alaska.
The Anchorage Museum
At this attraction, you can learn more about the Great Earthquake of 1964 that hit 9.2 on the Richter scale. The museum also offers education about the Alaska Pipeline, and the history of the city and state. This museum is also within walking distance of most hotels in the city.
The Great Outdoors
Do you love spending time outdoors, and love to get your adrenaline pumping? Even if you don't, you'll be amazed at how easy it is to love the beautiful scenery and wildlife in Alaska. Go four wheeling, hiking, or kayaking, and just enjoy being outdoors in one of the most beautiful places on the planet. Remember to dress appropriately, and invest in some bug spray to keep the bugs away while you are experience all this state has to offer.
Flightseeing Tour
The aviator's take on the sightseeing tour, you can view many things from the air that are missed from the ground with a flightseeing tour. Watch orcas and beluga whales frolic in the ocean, and see if you can't talk your pilot into landing on a glacier. Your kids will love the opportunity to make snowmen and have a snowball fight, well into the month of June. If you are looking for diversity from what you are used to, Alaska is the perfect place to start.
Train Rides
Taking a train ride is the best way to ensure that you get to take advantage of all the beautiful scenery in the area. The Alaska Railroad is available for tourists who are hoping to step back in time and travel in a different way. Make sure to watch out your windows for wildlife, and for the diversity in weather that is the state of Alaska.
Native Heritage Center
There are eleven separate cultures that make up this great state. Visit the Native Heritage Center to learn more about each one. This is the perfect opportunity to make sure that your kids aren't letting their brains stagnate while they are on vacation. Take a tour through the museum, and ride the free shuttle to the major points in Anchorage during the day.
Diversity And Beauty
Living in Alaska isn't for the faint of heart. Full-time residents of Alaska must be strong enough to withstand the hardships that come from living in this rugged area. Tourists feel a small taste of this as they visit, and are often enchanted by the beauty of the area.
From the roaming wildlife to the friendly nature of the residents, there isn't a thing you won't like about your Alaska vacation. Come prepared for a different experience, and you will head home happy. Just remember to bring your bug spray and your bear bellsto avoid any mishaps during your stay.
