11 Unforgettable Small Towns to Visit in Alaska

Few places in the world have the secluded and isolated feel of Alaska while still having an abundance to see and experience. Alaska was purchased initially from Russia in 1867 and became the 49th state in 1959. Now, it is a cherished part of the country, full of resilient people in a remote and harsh place while being awe-inspiring and beautiful. From the Northern Lights the rich Native Alaskan heritage, to the breathtaking glaciers, the Last Frontier offers unparalleled sites and adventures. These 12 towns are some of Alaska's most unforgettable places to visit.

Juneau

Located amongst Mount Juneau, Mount Roberts, and Gastineau Channel, the core of Juneau combines a modern look with remnants of the town's 19th-century gold rush heritage. Even though it is the capital of Alaska, visitors can only get there by ferry or plane, making it the only state capital inaccessible by car. Only a few places have glaciers right next door. Still, Juneau is home to the stunning Mendenhall Glacier, presenting visitors with the beauty of these natural wonders up close and personal. For a fun and unique view of the area, the Mount Roberts Tramway takes visitors up Mount Roberts, supplying views of Juneau and the surrounding landscape.

The region around Juneau is rich in wildlife, allowing whale-watching with porpoises, humpback whales, and orcas in the chilly waters. Additionally, the surrounding mountains and forests serve as habitats for bears, bald eagles, and wolves, providing an immersive experience for nature enthusiasts in this Alaskan town.

Homer

The imposing white peaks and glaciers of the Kenai Mountain range rise above the fierce blue waters of the Pacific. A truly serene and breathtaking backdrop and landscape! This little town sits at the southern tip of the Kenai Peninsula in Alaska and is known as the 'Halibut Fishing Capital of the World' because of the excellent fishing in the area. It might be isolated, but Homer has an impressive art scene. The town has many artists, writers, musicians, galleries, and performance spaces.

The Pratt Museum teaches Alaskan history and nature, focusing on stories related to Kachemak Bay. Bunnell Street Arts Center is a dynamic hub for visual arts and performances. Both provide enriching cultural encounters in Homer. Right across the water is Kachemak Bay State Park, Alaska's first state park, an excellent location for backcountry skiing or hiking. This natural gem reflects Homer's outdoor allure perfectly.

Fairbanks

As the sun sets and the sky clears, the shimmering dance of the aurora borealis illuminates the skies over Fairbanks. With little light pollution and long winter nights, Fairbanks has prime conditions to see the unforgettable phenomenon. Just remember to bring some warm clothes. The town is home to the University of Alaska Fairbanks, known for its research on the Arctic and subarctic. In town, you might notice the army personnel. That is because the city is home to Fort Wainwright, a U.S. Army base, which adds a distinct military presence to the community. There is a lot to learn about this town, and an excellent place to start is Pioneer Park. The historical village contains original and replica buildings from the early 1900s and is an eye-opening look at the old ways of life.

Kodiak

Kodiak town is situated on Kodiak Island, the largest island in Alaska. The area looks like what you imagine a postcard of Alaska would be, with dense forests and a shoreline cut with fjords and inlets. The region around Kodiak is rich with Native Alutiiq history, containing archaeological evidence suggesting human activity dating back thousands of years. The Russian Empire established a settlement in the late 18th century, becoming a fur trading center. The Kodiak History Museum, once a fur pelt storehouse owned by the Russian American Company, grants valuable insights into the area's extensive history. Today, Kodiak ranks as one of the top three fishing ports in the nation, housing numerous boats, including the state's most extensive trawl. Kodiak Island is also famous for its population of Kodiak bears, a subspecies of brown bears known for their exceptional size.

Sitka

The rugged outdoor landscapes of Alaska, with its pristine snow-capped peaks and dense forests, are Sitka’s playground. Sitka is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including temperate rainforests and the nearby dormant volcano, Mount Edgecumbe. Sitka is another Alaskan town with a long, storied history. Sitka was the capital of Russian America and was named New Archangel when Russia owned the land. It was also the site of the 1867 Alaska Purchase, when the United States purchased Alaska from Russia.

All around Sitka is the Tongass National Forest, the largest national forest in the United States. It has massive spruce and hemlock trees and is an essential biome due to its high biodiversity and role in capturing carbon. Sitka has easy access to the outdoors with wilderness so close to town. Many hiking trails, camping spots, and outdoor opportunities are at your fingertips.

North Pole

Here at the North Pole, the joy of Christmas never ends. Only 15 minutes south of Fairbanks, no matter when you come to the North Pole, the city is alive with the spirit of Christmas. The town's most iconic landmark is the Santa Claus House, a massive store with aisles and aisles of Christmas gifts and toys. Naturally, Santa Claus waits inside during the holidays, anxious to hear what you want for Christmas. Nearby, the Antler Academy houses Santa's reindeer. You can even walk up and pet the beloved animals.

The town comes to life in December with the North Pole Winterfest & Holiday Bazaar. You can see fireworks, buy unique local crafts, or bask in the holiday atmosphere. At the local post office, over 400,000 mail is addressed to Santa Claus annually. Every year, a dedicated team of volunteers do their best to answer every letter.

Cordova

Stark-white peaks rise behind Cordova, with the Copper River Delta rushing by. This Delta is one of the most important wetlands on the continent, providing much-needed habitat for migratory birds. Not only are the dramatic views of the mountains right outside Cordova, but stunning glaciers are also only a stone's throw away. For those who are keen fish eaters, Cordova is famous for its Copper River salmon. These fish are rich in flavor, making them a favorite among seafood enthusiasts. If you plan to come here, prepare for your trip as it is only accessible by plane or boat. However, this seclusion makes it the perfect getaway for those who want a genuinely off-the-beaten-path experience!

Valdez

Valdez checks all the boxes for travelers searching for a wealth of outdoor pursuits. The town is near the head of Prince William Sound, a fjord-like inlet of the Gulf of Alaska. Close to Valdez, an interesting phenomenon called calving is taking place. This is when large ice segments break from the glacier into the water, forming icebergs. Want to get a closer look? Take a boat tour or ride in a kayak, getting so close you can almost touch the ice giants!

The surroundings around Valdez also have a collection of dramatic waterfalls, including Bridal Veil Falls, Horsetail Falls, and waterfalls at Keystone Canyon. Not far from town is the Old Town Valdez site, the town's original location before the 1964 earthquake, one of the most powerful earthquakes ever recorded. Now, the site houses the remnant of the old city, where visitors can learn about the history of the life-changing earthquake.

Skagway

Located in the southeast of Alaska along the Inside Passage, Skagway is a sought-after stop for cruise ships navigating the nearby waters. The town is also steeped in Gold Rush history. Skagway was once a busy Klondike stop, and even now, it retains its 19th-century charm with nostalgic buildings and wooden boardwalks. In the downtown, six blocks are designated National Historic District to preserve the unique and flavorful 1890s atmosphere and feel. The Mascot Saloon, once infamous as 'the roughest place in the world,' no longer serves a drop of liquor. It has been repurposed into a museum examining the issues of gambling, drinking, and prostitution that were prevalent during the gold rush in the area. For a memorable journey, you can ride around the bends of mountains and see once-in-a-lifetime views on the White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad. It is truly a great way to witness the dramatic mountain landscape around Skagway.

Girdwood

For tourists heading to Girdwood, pack some skis or snowboard! Only 36 miles south of Anchorage, this town has towering mountains all around, and with it comes world-class skiing. In the winter, Alyeska Resort is the heartbeat of the city, a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding in Girdwood. In the colder months, Alyeska transforms into a bustling hub for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. The snowy surroundings and cold air give the town a warm, welcoming ski-town atmosphere.

Girdwood also serves as a gateway to Chugach State Park, one of the largest state parks in the United States. Over 495,000 acres large, it has 280 miles of trails to hike, bike, or explore. Bring a camera because the area is full of wildlife, and you can see iconic animals like moose, bears, and eagles.

Ketchikan

In some towns, they hold titles for being the ultimate hub of a particular thing or place. Ketchikan, though, is known for two things. It is the 'Salmon Capital of the World' and the 'Totem Pole Capital of the World.' The town is home to a thriving salmon industry and is one of the world's best places for fishing and seafood. The city has several totem pole parks, full of the rich cultural history of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian Native American tribes.

Totem Bight State Historical Park and Saxman Totem Park are both places to explore these cultural treasures. The historic Creek Street boardwalk built over Ketchikan Creek, with elevated galleries lining the creek's sides, has a quaint and charming feel. It has a scandalous history, as Creek Street was once Ketchikan's red-light district. It housed businesses that served the needs and entertainment of gold rush-era residents.

It can seem daunting to visit Alaska. It is far, remote, and, well, it is a bit cold at times. Looking past those potential barriers, the state is a wonderland and an honest, last frontier destination. Each town and city offers an incredible experience, from timeless glaciers to vibrant cultural treasures. Discover the resilient spirit of Alaska because beyond the initial hurdles lies a place waiting to be explored and cherished.