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To truly experience the magnitude of Alaska, the optimal strategy is a "Land and Sea" itinerary that combines a 7-day luxury cruise through the Inside Passage with a multi-day rail journey into the interior to Denali National Park. While cruise-only options are popular, they miss the heart of the wilderness; booking a curated Cruisetour with a provider like Princess or a luxury small-ship line ensures you see both the calving glaciers of the coast and the "Big Five" wildlife of the tundra without the logistical nightmare of self-driving vast distances.
For the next spot on our Discover America series, we are headed to a land that truly stands alone - Alaska. Alaska boasts landscapes and wildlife, climate variations, and seasonal changes that are grander and at times more intense than anywhere else in the US. With its vast stretches of roadless wilderness and sparse population, Alaska truly embodies its nickname: The Last Frontier. As the largest state in the US, and hosting nearly half of the nation's coastline, Alaska offers a wealth of territory, much of which remains remote and can only be accessed by boat or plane. From rugged adventures to surprising touches of luxury, this state is unlike any other.
When to Visit
The Best Time to Experience Alaska’s Magic
For most travelers, summer is the best time to visit Alaska between May 10 and September 15. You'll experience temperatures in the 60's to low 70's, 16–24 hrs of daylight, leaves and flowers in bloom, rushing rivers, and the best wildlife viewing. The midnight sun means you’ll have plenty of time to explore, but remember, this is peak season—so book early! The Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Alaska. Alaska's northern lights season is between late August and late April, peaking in March. That being said, Alaska’s tourist attractions and summer excursions mostly do not open before May 15, and almost all are closed by September 15.
How Long to Stay
How Many Days Do You Need in Alaska?
To experience Alaska’s highlights without feeling rushed, plan for 7-10 days. This gives you time to explore Denali National Park, the coastal areas like Seward or Homer, and even fit in an adventure like cruising or taking the Alaska Railroad.
GETTING TO ALASKA
Your Travel Options
Getting to Alaska is easier than you think. Fly into Anchorage or Fairbanks, both hubs for major airlines. From there, you can catch smaller flights to places like Juneau or Kodiak
Want to go remote? Hop on a seaplane to places like Lake Clark National Park, Kodiak Island or Wrangell-St. Elias.
Getting Around
Travel Tips & Options
By Car: Renting a car gives you freedom to explore places like Anchorage, Denali, and the Kenai Peninsula. Driving the Seward Highway which is one of the most scenic roads in the world or the rugged Dalton Highway is a bucket-list experience with jaw-dropping views around every corner. But book early—availability can be tight in smaller towns especially in peak season. Just be prepared for long stretches without gas stations—always fill up when you can! And always carry an emergency kit—some stretches of highway are incredibly remote.
By Train: Getting around Alaska is part of the experience. The Alaska Railroad is a standout option for seeing Alaska’s stunning landscapes. The GoldStar Service includes glass-dome ceilings, an exclusive outdoor viewing platform - the only of its kind in the world, and gourmet dining—all while traveling through some of the most scenic routes in the world. The Coastal Classic route from Anchorage to Seward is consistently ranked as one of the most scenic train rides in the world
By Cruise: If you love the idea of seeing glaciers and wildlife from the water, consider a cruise. Princess Cruises stand out for a reason. They’ve been cruising Alaska for over 50 years, and they offer exclusive rail and lodge experiences for a seamless land-and-sea adventure. They actually own their own lodges, which can be a game changer if budget is a concern and you want the lodge experience. This means you will be able to spend overnights on land and see more of Alaska's interior and also explore by ship. Princess is one of the few lines allowed into Glacier Bay National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it’s a must-see! Their shore excursions like a private whale-watching tour in Juneau, private wildlife tours and helicopter rides are top-tier. Try to upgrade to a mini-suite or balcony stateroom perfect for private glacier viewing.
And don’t forget the Alaska Marine Highway System, a ferry service connecting remote coastal towns. It’s a hidden gem offering a chance to see Alaska’s stunning coastline at a slower pace without the crowds of a cruise.
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Top Places to Visit
Must-See Destinations
1. Denali National Park
Home to North America’s tallest peak, Denali offers incredible hiking, wildlife spotting, and jaw-dropping scenery. Plan at least two days here to fully appreciate its beauty.
Must-Do: Take a guided backcountry tour to spot moose, bears, and caribou.
2. The Coast: Seward and Beyond
Head to Seward and explore Kenai Fjords National Park, where you can kayak near glaciers or take a wildlife cruise to spot puffins, sea otters, and whales.
Homer and Halibut Cove offer quieter coastal vibes, with art galleries, fresh seafood, and stunning ocean views.
3. Anchorage
Anchorage is the gateway to most Alaskan adventures. It offers urban comforts with quick access to hiking trails, cultural sites, and wildlife. Don’t miss the Alaska Native Heritage Center for an insight into the region’s history.
For adventure seekers, imagine being dropped onto a glacier by helicopter, strapping on crampons, and walking across sparkling blue ice. You can do this at Mendenhall Glacier near Juneau or Ruth Glacier near Denali. These experiences are once-in-a-lifetime. You’ll land on a glacier and explore a world of blue ice and crevasses, all while surrounded by towering peaks., take a guided hike or kayak through Kenai Fjords, where you might spot a humpback whale or two.
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LUXURY Stays in Alaska
Luxury Lodges and Exclusive Stays
Just a reality check - luxury accommodations in Alaska are limited. Most remote lodges focus on experience over amenities. You’ll have rustic charm and five-star views, but don’t expect 24/7 room service. A few standout lodges provide world-class experiences that are truly unforgettable. Just be prepared for a bit of sticker shock.
Alyeska Resort in Girdwood
A ski resort with upscale dining, spa services, and stunning views.
Borealis Basecamp
Ever dreamed of watching the Northern Lights from bed? At Borealis Basecamp, just 25 miles from Fairbanks, you can stay in fiberglass igloos with 16-foot curved windows for panoramic sky views.
What’s Inside: Plush beds, private bathrooms, and a cozy vibe make this a truly unique experience.
Insider Tip: Visit between late September and March for the best chances of seeing the aurora, and consider adding a guided photography tour to capture it perfectly.
Sheldon Chalet
Perched on Ruth Glacier in Denali, this ultra-exclusive lodge is helicopter-access only, sleeps just 10 guests and offers private glacier treks, gourmet dining, and unforgettable Northern Lights views. STARTING at $32,000 per night with a three-night minimum... this is Alaska’s ultimate luxury splurge. If this lands in your wheelhouse, book at least a year in advance—spots fill up fast.
Stillpoint Lodge
Located in Halibut Cove, near Homer this secluded family-owned, all-inclusive seaside retreat features private cabins amidst untouched wilderness, gourmet meals, and included activities like bear viewing, saltwater fishing and glacier lake kayaking. A stay for a family of four starts at $15,000 per night.
Tutka Bay Lodge
Accessible only by boat or seaplane, this secluded lodge near Homer offers coastline kayaking, hiking through untouched forests, or joining a guided fishing trip to reel in fresh salmon. Don’t miss the chance to participate in their cooking classes, hosted in an awesome repurposed crabbing boat that’s been turned into a culinary school. It’s such a unique experience! This wilderness retreat offers a minimum three-night stay starting at around $10,000 per person. Each stay includes all meals, guided adventures, and the cooking classes. The lodge is part of the Within the Wild collection, known for blending luxury with authentic Alaskan experiences. Book well in advance, as this is a favorite for travelers who want exclusivity.
Camp Denali
For a more rustic but still luxurious option, Camp Denali offers eco-friendly cabins with wood-burning stoves and guided hikes in Denali National Park. At $2,000 per person per night, it’s a splurge, but priced lower than the other lodges on this list. It’s a chance to disconnect and reconnect with nature—there’s no Wi-Fi, but that’s part of the charm.
Looking for something quirky? Book a stay in a wilderness yurt or an off-grid cabin in Wrangell-St. Elias. It’s not all-inclusive and doesn’t offer the tours you’ll find at the others, but it’s much more economically priced. Again - You’ll trade Wi-Fi for wilderness, but isn’t that the point of Alaska?
Family-Friendly Adventures
For the Whole Family
And as I often do, I want to highlight one of my favorite options for family travel, especially considering the price point these amazing wilderness lodges will run you. Adventures by Disney offers guided group tours designed for families who want adventure without the stress of planning. These trips combine luxury accommodations with immersive, kid-friendly activities.
You’ll experience glacier hikes, white-water rafting, and even gold-panning. Plus, the Adventure Guides take care of everything—from transportation to meals. They play movies on the longer bus rides and have trivia contests that really help young and old pass the time.
Stays include premium lodges and resorts, like the Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge, with breathtaking views of Denali. Your family will also have VIP access to unique cultural experiences, such as learning about native Alaskan traditions from local experts and cuddling sledding puppies.
Adventures by Disney tours are great for multigenerational families, as activities are tailored to all age groups. They also book up quickly, so plan at least a year ahead.
Insider Tips
Travel Hacks for Your Alaska Adventure
Pack Layers: Alaska’s weather is unpredictable, so bring waterproof gear, sturdy hiking boots, sunglasses and plenty of layers—even in summer. Temperatures can drop drastically at night. Mosquitoes are also a problem in the summer months so plan ahead with bugspray.
Book Early: Summer is peak season, and accommodations, tours, and car rentals fill up fast. Plan one year ahead.
Wildlife Safety: Respect nature by keeping a safe distance (200yds) from animals like bears and moose. Always follow your guide’s instructions.
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Why Alaska?
What Makes Alaska a Must-Visit Destination?
For Bucketlist Travelers and true adventurers, Alaska isn’t just a trip, it’s an adventure that stays with you forever.
Have you been and if so, what was the best thing you saw? Honestly, I think that train ride alone might be the one thing that would get me to go—it looks absolutely breathtaking!
Ready to start planning your next getaway be it Alaska or the Virgin Islands? We should totally talk!
Alaska Awaits: Where Wild Meets Wonderful
The raw spirit of Alaska calls to those who yearn for something real. This isn't your typical vacation spot - it's where glacier-carved valleys stretch as far as your eyes can see and where you might catch a bear fishing in crystal streams. Some folks come here chasing thrills, others for peaceful moments in fancy lodges tucked away in the wilderness. What makes Alaska special isn't just the towering mountains or the midnight sun - it's those quiet moments when you realize you're experiencing something most people only dream about. Your Alaska story is waiting to be written, and we're here to help turn those daydreams into memories that stick with you forever. Ready to discover your slice of the last frontier?
Frequently Asked Questions About Alaska Luxury Travel
1. What is the best month to visit Alaska for wildlife?
July and August are peak months for wildlife. Salmon runs attract bears to the rivers, and whales are active in the coastal waters. For seeing the Northern Lights, however, you need to visit late August or September when the skies get dark enough.
2. Should I choose a big ship or a small ship for Alaska?
It depends on your priority. Big ships (Princess, Holland America) offer more amenities and access to Glacier Bay National Park. Small ships (Silversea, Regent) can navigate narrow fjords, get closer to wildlife, and offer a more intimate, all-inclusive luxury experience.
3. Can I see Denali National Park on a cruise?
Not directly. Denali is deep in the interior. To see it, you must book a "Cruisetour" which combines a 7-day cruise with a land tour via the Alaska Railroad to Denali. We highly recommend a 2-3 night stay at a lodge near the park entrance.
4. What is the "Inside Passage"?
The Inside Passage is a protected network of waterways along Alaska's southeast coast, teeming with whales, eagles, and glaciers. It is the primary route for most cruises and offers calm waters compared to the open ocean.
5. Do I need a balcony room on an Alaska cruise?
Yes, absolutely. Unlike Caribbean cruises, the scenery in Alaska is constant and spectacular. Having a private balcony allows you to watch glaciers calve and whales breach from the privacy of your room, rather than fighting for space on the public deck.
6. Is it always freezing in Alaska?
No. In summer (June-August), temperatures in the Inside Passage range from 50°F to 70°F (10°C - 21°C). It can be surprisingly mild, but rain is common, so waterproof layers are more important than heavy parkas.
7. Can I see the Northern Lights in the summer?
Generally, no. With nearly 20+ hours of daylight in peak summer (Midnight Sun), the sky never gets dark enough. To see the Aurora, plan your trip for late August through April, with Fairbanks being a top viewing spot.
8. What is "flightseeing" and is it worth it?
Flightseeing involves taking a small plane or helicopter over glaciers or mountains. It is expensive but often voted the #1 experience by travelers. It allows you to land on a glacier or circle the summit of Denali, views you cannot get any other way.
9. Do I need a passport for an Alaska cruise?
If your cruise starts or ends in Vancouver, Canada, you absolutely need a passport. Even for "closed-loop" cruises from Seattle, a passport is highly recommended in case of emergency travel through Canada.
10. How far in advance should I book an Alaska vacation?
Alaska has a very short season (May-September). To secure the best balcony cabins and limited-capacity excursions (like bear watching or helicopter tours), you should book 12 months in advance, especially for July travel.
