13 Amazing Alaska Day Trips That Are Worth The Drive

Alaska has an unparalleled opportunity to experience the grandeur of nature, cultural history, and abundant wildlife through a variety of exciting road trips. From Anchorage and Fairbanks, travelers have access to some of the state's most iconic destinations within just a few hours' drive. Whether you're interested in driving Turnagain Arm's coastal route, immersing yourself in Alaska’s Indigenous culture at a heritage center, or marveling at the Matanuska Glacier, there’s an Alaskan road trip suited to every interest. Here are the top picks.

Anchorage to Turnagain Arm

Starting from Anchorage, the drive along Turnagain Arm is one of the most breathtaking day trips you can take in Alaska. It is a mix of coastal beauty and mountain grandeur. Just an hour and a half drive from Anchorage along the Seward Highway, the road hugs the coastline, with the Chugach Mountains rising on one side and the waters of the Turnagain Arm stretching out on the other.

The chance to spot beluga whales from Beluga Point or Dall sheep clinging to the cliffs makes this drive a must for wildlife enthusiasts. At the end of the road, you’ll reach Portage Glacier, where you can take a short boat tour to see the glacier up close. For those looking to stretch their legs, the nearby Byron Glacier Trail is a relatively easy hike. The ease of access from Anchorage and the diversity of activities make this one of Alaska’s top road trips.

Anchorage to Eklutna Lake

Another popular destination from Anchorage is Eklutna Lake, about a 45-minute drive from the city. In the heart of Chugach State Park, Eklutna Lake is a peaceful escape for outdoor enthusiasts. The lake’s brilliant turquoise waters are framed by the Chugach Mountains. It is a beautiful backdrop for kayaking, hiking, or simply relaxing by the shore.

The Twin Peaks Trail, a challenging hike, rewards those who make the climb with panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. For a less strenuous adventure, the Eklutna Lakeside Trail is a leisurely path along the shoreline, suitable for families and casual walkers. Whether you’re looking to paddle across the calm waters or take in the fall foliage, Eklutna Lake’s proximity to Anchorage makes it a day trip for nature lovers.

Fairbanks to Chena Hot Springs

For visitors starting in Fairbanks, Chena Hot Springs is a rejuvenating retreat just an hour and a half away. This geothermal oasis is an opportunity to soak in natural hot springs surrounded by Alaska’s wilderness. Beyond the springs, visitors can stop by the Aurora Ice Museum, which is open year-round and features intricate ice sculptures.

The scenic drive to Chena Hot Springs follows the Chena River, where wildlife sightings are common, adding an adventurous element to the journey. Whether you’re there to unwind in the steaming waters or marvel at the ice carvings, this destination's year-round appeal makes it a day trip for those seeking a memorable Alaskan experience just a short drive from Fairbanks.

Anchorage to Kenai Fjords National Park

If you’re up for a longer but rewarding journey, the drive from Anchorage to Kenai Fjords National Park boasts Alaska’s coastal scenery. About two and a half hours from Anchorage, Kenai Fjords is where mountains, glaciers, and the ocean converge in a spectacular display.

Visitors can experience the Exit Glacier, one of the most accessible glaciers in the park, by taking the short hike to its face or embarking on a more strenuous trail that leads to views of the Harding Icefield. For an immersive experience, a boat tour from Seward gives you the chance to see towering tidewater glaciers and abundant Alaskan wildlife, including sea lions, whales, and puffins. The drive itself, winding through the Kenai Peninsula, is almost as beautiful as the destination.

Anchorage to Alaska Native Heritage Center

The Alaska Native Heritage Center is an immersive cultural experience that is both educational and engaging. This unique day trip is an easy 20-minute drive away and lets visitors learn about the history and traditions of Alaska’s Native peoples through interactive exhibits, traditional dwellings, and live performances. The center’s indoor and outdoor exhibits showcase the art, stories, and heritage of Alaska’s 11 major cultural groups.

Be sure to walk around the lakeside village site, where traditional Native structures, including longhouses and totem poles, bring history to life. Inside, demonstrations of Native crafts such as beading and carving give a deeper understanding of indigenous artistry. For families or solo travelers, this visit is an opportunity to connect with Alaska’s indigenous history in a hands-on way.

Fairbanks to Ester Gold Camp

Ester Gold Camp is a trip back in time to the Klondike gold rush era. In the quirky town of Ester, this mining camp showcases the gold mining heritage that shaped much of Interior Alaska’s early development. The camp itself is a blend of preserved mining equipment, buildings, and relics from the early 1900s. It is an authentic look at the lives of the miners who once flocked to the area in search of fortune.

The town of Ester is equally interesting, with local artist studios, quirky shops, and a bar (Malemute Saloon) that still has the feel of a bygone era. After wandering around the camp, a stroll around Ester’s historic downtown is a fun look at one of Alaska’s more eccentric communities.

Anchorage to Independence Mine State Historical Park

Independence Mine State Historical Park, about an hour and a half from Anchorage, is a hidden gem in the Hatcher Pass area. Once a booming gold mine, the park is now home to well-preserved remains. The drive into the mountains sets the tone for the adventure as you wind through alpine landscapes.

Once at the park, you can walk through the old mining buildings and learn about the history of Alaska’s gold rush at the visitor center. For those looking to get active, several hiking trails on-site have views of the surrounding peaks. The park is especially beautiful in the summer, when wildflowers blanket the area, or in the fall, when the vibrant colors of autumn set the hills aglow.

Anchorage to Palmer

A 45-minute drive northeast of Anchorage, the town of Palmer is known for its fertile farmlands, Palmer hosts Alaska’s annual State Fair and also produces giant vegetables. The town’s downtown area is filled with locally owned shops, such as The Fern AK, and galleries, including the Palmer Museum of History & Art. It is a pleasant place to stroll and discover Alaskan-made goods.

A visit to the Musk Ox Farm just outside of town is an opportunity to learn about these fascinating animals and the sustainable qiviut fiber industry they support. For those interested in outdoor activities, the surrounding Matanuska Valley is great for hiking and sightseeing, with views of the Chugach Mountains.

Fairbanks to Pioneer Park

Pioneer Park in Fairbanks is an ideal destination for a family-friendly day trip, just 10 minutes away from the city center. This park blends history, culture, and entertainment in a way that appeals to visitors of all ages. Originally created to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the purchase of Alaska, Pioneer Park reveals Fairbanks’ past with its preserved gold rush-era buildings, including a saloon, train car, and even a historic sternwheeler.

For families, the park has playgrounds, a carousel, and mini-golf—that's plenty of entertainment for younger visitors. Plus, the on-site museums, such as the Alaska Pioneer Museum and the Tanana Valley Railroad Museum, are fun ways to learn about the early days of Alaska’s development.

Anchorage to Denali State Park

Denali State Park is a day trip for those wanting to experience the beauty of Alaska’s wilderness without venturing too far from the city; it's only two hours away. Offering some of the most spectacular views of Denali, North America’s tallest peak, this park is a paradise for hikers, wildlife watchers, and nature lovers.

For a day trip, why not hike trails like the Curry Ridge Trail, which has vistas of the Alaska Range? The Chulitna River, which runs through the park, is for those looking to try their hand at fishing or simply enjoy the peaceful sound of flowing water. With ample opportunities for spotting moose, bears, and eagles, Denali State Park is a quintessential Alaskan experience.

Anchorage to Knik Glacier

Knik Glacier is one of the most accessible glaciers near Anchorage. The glacier is known for its ice formations and blue icebergs that float in the lagoon at its base. You can reach the glacier by guided ATV tours or airboat rides, both of which are up-close experiences with the glacier’s immense size. For those looking for a more leisurely experience, the Knik River area has scenic spots for picnicking and photography.

The 1.5-hour drive to Knik Glacier winds through the Matanuska Valley, with its rolling hills and distant mountain views, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination. Whether you’re eager for adventure or simply want to marvel at one of Alaska’s natural wonders, Knik Glacier is a day trip that delivers scenery and excitement.

Anchorage to Matanuska Glacier

A two-hour drive from Anchorage brings you to the Matanuska Glacier, Alaska’s largest road-accessible glacier. This destination lets visitors witness the glacier on foot. Guided glacier hikes allow adventurers to traverse the ice, discovering crevasses, shimmering ice caves, and ice formations along the way. For those less inclined to hike, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy the glacier, including scenic overlooks and interpretive trails that provide insight into the glacier’s geological history.

The surrounding area, with its towering mountains and lush valleys, makes for a perfect spot to picnic or relax after a morning of adventure. Whether you’re hiking across the ice or simply taking in the incredible views, Matanuska Glacier is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that is accessible enough for a day trip, yet wild enough to feel like a true Alaskan adventure.

Fairbanks to Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge

One final road trip in the Fairbanks is Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge. Originally founded as a dairy farm in 1928, this 2,200-acre wildlife refuge is now a destination for bird watchers and nature lovers. The refuge is home to numerous migratory birds, including sandhill cranes, Canada geese, and various species of ducks, making it a spot for wildlife viewing in the spring and fall when migrations are in full swing. The wide-open fields, forests, and wetlands create a diverse ecosystem that attracts both birds and local wildlife like foxes and moose.

Be sure to take advantage of the network of walking trails that wind through the refuge. In the summer, guided nature walks give educational insights into the area’s history and ecology, while the boardwalk trails make it accessible for families. For a day trip close to Fairbanks.

Explore Alaska’s Diverse Wonders, One Day Trip at a Time

These road trips from Anchorage and Fairbanks are a fun way to experience the diversity of Alaska. Each route has something different, from wildlife spotting along Turnagain Arm to the educational and interactive exhibits at the Alaska Native Heritage Center. The convenience of these trips makes them ideal for day travelers, allowing you to connect with Alaska's wild beauty and cultural richness, all within a few hours' drive. Pack your bags and choose a route to make unforgettable memories and gain a deeper appreciation for everything Alaska has to offer.