Destination Alaska

Visiting Anchorage in 2025

Want to visit Anchorage, Alaska, in 2025? Join me as I sit down (virtually) with Jack from Visit Anchorage to discuss what visitors need to know and what's new in Anchorage this coming year.
In this episode, we cover all the essentials including:
Top outdoor experiences and things to do in Anchorage
New tours, the Alyeska Veilbreaker sky bridges, and renovations to the Alaska Native Heritage Center
Hotel news, including the Hilton Anchorage remodel, the Wildbirch Hotel, Snob Hollow Inn, and BlueWater BaseCamp
Three major trends in Alaska tourism – will you be part of them?
In the Q&A, Jack answers the following questions:
What can you do in Anchorage without a car?
When does the snowy/wintry weather in Anchorage typically end?
If you only have two days, what would you say is the priority sightseeing in Anchorage?
What are some tips for RVing in the Anchorage area?
This is the audio-only version of the Anchorage video in my 2025 Alaska Seminar Series. You can watch the video version on YouTube.
🗞️ Here are some extra resources to help you plan your trip to Anchorage:
Visit Anchorage (official website)
Visit Anchorage on Facebook 
Visit Anchorage on Instagram
📚 Plus here are some of my own resources to help you visit:
Things to do in Anchorage (Summer) 
Things to do in Anchorage (Winter) 
Top Restaurants in Anchorage 
Where to Stay in Anchorage
Day Trips from Anchorage
Top Hikes near Anchorage
🤑 Save 10% off any flight – including Anchorage sightseeing, and Katmai and Lake Clark National Parks bear viewing – with Rust's Flying Service with code valandval
🤑 Save $10 off my Alaska Itinerary Planning Packs with code AKSS2025.
🙌 Be sure to join my Alaska travel tips Facebook group and follow me on Instagram for more Alaska travel inspiration.

Visiting Fairbanks in 2025

Want to visit Fairbanks, Alaska, in 2025? Join me as I sit down (virtually) with Kasey from Explore Fairbanks to discuss what visitors need to know and what's new in Fairbanks this coming year.
Whether you want to visit in the Midnight Sun, Aurora, or Winter seasons, this video will help you get prepared for an unforgettable adventure in the Golden Heart of Alaska!
In the Q&A, Kasey answers the following questions:
What are the must-dos you'd recommend for a first trip to Fairbanks?
Is it necessary to rent a car?
What are some top hiking trails?
What are the things to do while visiting the Arctic Circle?
Do you have any tips for visiting Fairbanks with a dog?
Staying in a dry cabin - any places to take a shower in/near Fairbanks?
This is the audio-only version of the Fairbanks video in my 2025 Alaska Seminar Series. You can watch the video version on YouTube.
***Apologies for the quality of MY audio track – I'm not sure what happened, but Kasey sounds great!***
🗞️ Here are some extra resources to help you plan your trip to Fairbanks:
Explore Fairbanks (official website)
Explore Fairbanks on Facebook
Explore Fairbanks on Instagram 
📚 Plus here are some of my own resources to help you plan your trip:
Things to do in Fairbanks (Summer)
Things to do in Fairbanks (Winter)
Top Restaurants in Fairbanks
Where to Stay in Fairbanks
🤑 Save $10 off my Alaska Itinerary Planning Packs with code AKSS2025.
🙌 Be sure to join my Alaska travel tips Facebook group and follow me on Instagram for more Alaska travel inspiration.

Visiting Denali in 2025

Planning to visit Denali National Park in 2025 as part of an Alaska trip? You're gonna want to hear this first!
Join me as I sit down (virtually) with Amber, Public Relations Officer for Denali National Park & Preserve to discuss what visitors need to know and updates for visitors this coming year. We also specifically discuss the Denali Park Road closure, what you can expect in 2025, and Amber provides an exclusive update about progress on the road repair!
In the Q&A, Amber also answers the following questions:
Which bus tour is the most kid-friendly?
Do you need to reserve Transit buses? How early?
How hardcore do you have to be to enjoy taking the Transit bus past Savage River? Is it really bushwhacking?
What activities other than bus tours can you do IN the park?
Where can you go fishing in Denali? What are the rules?
Is Denali National Park worth visiting in March?
This is the audio-only version of the Denali video in my 2025 Alaska Seminar Series. You can watch the video version on YouTube.
🗞️ Here are some extra resources to help you plan your trip to Denali:
Denali National Park & Preserve (official NPS website)
Denali NP on Facebook
Denali NP on Instagram
Discover Denali (the local tourism organization)
📚 Plus here are some of my own resources to help you plan your trip:
Is Denali National Park "Worth It" (with the Road Closure)? Here are my thoughts
The perfect Denali National Park Itinerary for 2-3 Days
Things to Do in Denali
Denali Bus Tours, Explained
Where to Eat in the Denali Area
Where to Stay near Denali National Park
🤑 Save 10% off your Denali flightseeing tour with K2 Aviation, with code valandval
🤑 Save $10 off my Alaska Itinerary Planning Packs with code AKSS2025.
🙌 Be sure to join my Alaska travel tips Facebook group and follow me on Instagram for more Alaska travel inspiration.

Visiting Ketchikan in 2023

Planning to visit Ketchikan in 2023? Whether you're taking a cruise or traveling there on your own by ferry, plane, or cruise ship, this one's for you.
Listen to this live seminar and Q&A with Patti from Visit Ketchikan for accurate and up-to-date information about what's going on in Ketchikan this year.
In this episode, we cover:★ Basic info about visiting Ketchikan, including different seasons and what to do in each one ★ How to get to Ketchikan – you've got choices! ★ The incredible list of things to do in Ketchikan – including a few local suggestions that Patti loves and Alaska Native experiences
As well as new experiences to have in Ketchikan in 2023, including new exhibits and experiences available in the coming summer season, as well as updates on some construction developments in town to be aware of.
Have other questions about visiting Ketchikan? Here's what to do:
Head on over to my Alaska Travel Guide – I've got several Ketchikan articles to help you plan!
Visit the Visit Ketchikan website for official travel resources
This episode was originally released as part of my 2023 Alaska Seminar Series; it's been edited to remove some content and clarify the episode, but I apologize for any weird cuts or irrelevant info from the original version.

Visiting Seward in 2025

So you wanna visit Seward, Alaska, in 2025? Or maybe you're starting or ending an Alaska cruise there? Maybe you're ticking off national parks and it's finally time for Kenai Fjords? Whatever the reason, this video is essential for travel this year.
Join me as I sit down (virtually) with Ally from Visit Seward to discuss what visitors need to know and updates for visitors this coming year. In addition to essential travel info (good for any year), you'll learn about some exciting new developments around town – and why you'll need to 'pardon our dust' at the Seward cruise terminal in 2025.
In the Q&A section, Ally answers the following questions:
Do I need a car to get around? If I rent a car in Seward can I leave it in Anchorage?
Should I travel by car or train from Anchorage?
Best RV rental location in Seward?
How to spend 2-3 nights in Seward?
If I'm staying in a hotel where can I have a campfire?
Recommended fishing charters in the area for salmon or halibut?
This is the audio-only version of the Seward video in my 2025 Alaska Seminar Series. You can watch the video version on YouTube.
🗞️ Here are some extra resources to help you plan your trip to Seward:
Visit Seward (official website)
Visit Seward on Facebook
Visit Seward on Instagram
📚 Also, here are some of my own resources to help you plan your trip:
The Best Things to Do in Seward
Where to Eat in Seward
Where to Stay in Seward
Kenai Fjords Cruises, Ranked
My Major Marine Tours Review
My Kenai Fjords Tours Review
🤑 Save 10% off your Kenai Fjords cruise:
Click here to save 10% off Kenai Fjords Tours
Click here to save 10% off Major Marine Tours
🤑 Save $10 off my Alaska Itinerary Planning Packs with code AKSS2025.
🙌 Be sure to join my Alaska travel tips Facebook group and follow me on Instagram for more Alaska travel inspiration.

Visiting Seward in 2023

Planning to visit Seward, Alaska in 2023? This one's for you! Listen to the audio-only version of my live seminar and Q&A with Jessica from Visit Seward for accurate and up-to-date information about what's going on in Seward and the surrounding region this year.
In this episode, we cover:★ Basic info about visiting Seward, where it is, and what makes it special★ How to get to Seward★ Top things to do in Seward
As well as new experiences to have in Seward in 2023, including: ★ Exciting events happening this year ★ The 2023 events calendar for Seward to help you plan for special events
In the Q&A section, Jessica answers the following questions:
What days do cruise ships dock in Seward?
What are the options for camping in Seward?
What are the options for luggage storage after getting off a cruise ship before a train or bus to Anchorage?
What are some of the best hiking trails accessible from town?
Can you provide some information on getting shuttle services to the Exit Glacier?
What are the options for a half-day fishing charter?
If you could eat at one restaurant in Seward, where would it be?
Have other questions about visiting Seward? Here's what to do:
Head on over to my Alaska Travel Guide – I've got Seward articles to help you plan!
Visit the Visit Seward website for official travel resources. (You can find their social media accounts there too!)
This episode was originally released as part of my 2023 Alaska Seminar Series; it's been edited to remove some content and clarify the episode, but I apologize for any weird cuts or irrelevant info from the original version.

Visiting Sitka in 2023

Planning to visit Sitka in 2023? Whether you're taking a cruise or traveling there on your own by ferry, plane, or cruise ship, this one's for you.
Listen to the audio-only version of a live seminar and Q&A with Laurie from Visit Sitka for accurate and up-to-date information about what's going on in Sitka and the surrounding region this year.
In this episode, we cover: ★ Basic info about visiting Sitka, including different seasons and what to do in each one ★ How to get to Sitka – you've got choices! ★ The incredible list of things to do in Sitka – including Totem Park, bear and eagle encounters, and more! ★ A "handy" walk-through of Alaska's five salmon species (pun intended!)
As well as new experiences to have in Sitka in 2023, including new tours and experiences available in the coming summer season.
In the Q&A section, Laurie answers the following questions:
Is a rental car necessary to explore Sitka?
What are some suggestions for a day in Sitka without an organized cruise excursion?
What is there to do in the winter?
Can I see the northern lights from Sitka?
Have other questions about visiting Sitka? Here's what to do:
Head on over to my Alaska Travel Guide – I've got several Sitka articles to help you plan!
Visit the Visit Sitka website for official travel resources.
This episode was originally released as part of my 2023 Alaska Seminar Series; it's been edited to remove some content and clarify the episode, but I apologize for any weird cuts or irrelevant info from the original version.

Visiting Homer in 2025

So you wanna visit Homer, Alaska, in 2025? Smart choice – it's a favorite destination among Alaskans too!
Join me as I sit down (virtually) with Mina from Visit Homer / the Homer Chamber of Commerce to discuss what visitors need to know and updates for visitors this coming year. In addition to essential travel info (good for any year), you'll learn about some exciting new developments around town.
In the Q&A section, Mina answers the following questions:
What are your tips for having an RV in Homer?
How late in the spring is there snow in Homer?
Recommendations for a glacier landing out of Homer?
Do you need a satellite device if you're out hiking in the Homer area?
Is there somewhere you can buy fresh catch fish if you want to cook it at your accommodations?
Where can you go tidepooling in Homer?
This is the audio-only version of the Homer video in my 2025 Alaska Seminar Series. You can watch the video version on YouTube.
🗞️ Here are some extra resources to help you plan your trip to Homer:
Homer Alaska (official website)
Visit Homer Alaska on Facebook
Visit Homer on Instagram
📚 Also, here are some of my own resources to help you plan your trip:
The Best Things to Do in Homer
Where to Eat in Homer
Where to Stay in Homer
How to Visit Seldovia, "Across the Bay"
🤑 Save $10 off my Alaska Itinerary Planning Packs with code AKSS2025.
🙌 Be sure to join my Alaska travel tips Facebook group and follow me on Instagram for more Alaska travel inspiration.

Visiting Skagway in 2023

Planning to visit Skagway in 2023? Whether you're taking a cruise or traveling there on your own by ferry, plane, or vehicle, this one's for you.
Listen to the audio-only version of a live seminar and Q&A with Wendy from Explore Skagway for accurate and up-to-date information about what's going on in Skagway and the surrounding region this year.
In this episode, we cover: ★ Basic info about visiting Skagway, including different seasons ★ The #1 thing you must do when visiting Skagway ★ How to get to Skagway – you've got choices!
As well as new experiences to have in Skagway in 2023, including: ★ Several centennial and milestone celebrations happening this year ★ Special events happening throughout the year in Skagway ★ Tips on visiting in the shoulder season (especially as more Alaska cruises are happening in April and September/October!)
In the Q&A section, Wendy answers the following questions:
For those of us not coming on a cruise, how many days do you recommend in Skagway?
Can you tell me about day trips from Skagway NOT on a tour?
What's the difference between the White Pass & Yukon Route train experience and other rides on the Alaska Railroad?
Any suggestions for toddler-friendly activities?
Are there thrift shops in Skagway?
Have other questions about visiting Skagway? Here's what to do:
Head on over to my Alaska Travel Guide – I've got Skagway articles to help you plan!
Visit the Explore Skagway website for official travel resources.
This episode was originally released as part of my 2023 Alaska Seminar Series; it's been edited to remove some content and clarify the episode, but I apologize for any weird cuts or irrelevant info from the original version.

Riding the Alaska Railroad in 2023

Want to ride the Alaska Railroad in 2023? Of course you do!
Listen to the audio-only version of a live seminar and Q&A with Meghan from the Alaska Railroad for accurate and up-to-date information about the routes and travel packages offered by the AKRR in 2023, as well as the VERY exciting milestone the Railroad is reaching this year.
In this video, we cover:★ Basic info about the different classes of cars on the Alaska Railroad★ The three daily summer routes you can ride★ Info about the dining options and other amenities offered onboard
As well as new experiences unique to 2023, including: ★ The modified Aurora Winter Train schedule for this year ★ Accurate info for different destinations you can reach by train ★ The Alaska Railroad Centennial celebration – including a teaser of a VERY exciting event that will happen in Nenana in July 2023
In the Q&A section, Meghan answers the following questions:
What is the AKRR doing to celebrate its centennial?
What time does the Denali Star train leave Anchorage and how long is the trip?
On the Denali Star Train, is there one direction, northbound or southbound, that has better views than the other?
How does transportation work once you get off the train in different cities like Anchorage, Fairbanks, or Denali?
What are the options for people with food allergies?
What tips do you have for ADA passengers or those with limited mobility?
Are dogs allowed?
Have other questions about riding the Alaska Railroad? Here's what to do:
Head on over to my Alaska Travel Guide – I've got lots of suggestions on how to incorporate the AKRR into your Alaska itinerary.
Visit the Alaska Railroad website or call (800)544-0552 to book your trip.
This episode was originally released as part of my 2023 Alaska Seminar Series; it's been edited to remove some content and clarify the episode, but I apologize for any weird cuts or irrelevant info from the original version.

Visiting Whittier in 2023

Want to visit Whittier in 2023? Of course you do!
Listen to the audio-only version of this live seminar and Q&A with Lisa, a representative of the Whittier Chamber of Commerce, for accurate and up-to-date information about what's going on in Whittier and the surrounding region this year.
In this episode, we cover: ★ Basic info about visiting Whittier, including getting there and things to do ★ Basics of where to stay ★ Whittier food and drink – and what you *must* try
As well as new experiences to have in Whittier in 2023, including: ★ New boats and glacier tours in Prince William Sound ★ Brand new tour companies and tours to book ★ And a really exciting development coming in 2024...
In the Q&A section, Lisa answers the following questions:
What is the best way to get around town if you arrive by train?
What suggestions do you have for camping in the Whittier area?
If you had to choose a boat tour to view glaciers, which would you do: Whittier or Seward? (I also have a blog post addressing this exact question!)
What are some good things to do in Whittier with two little ones?
What are the options for visiting Whittier in the winter?
Have other questions about visiting Anchorage? Here's what to do:
Head on over to my Alaska Travel Guide – I've got Whittier articles to help you plan
Visit the Whittier Chamber website for official travel resources.
This episode was originally released as part of my 2023 Alaska Seminar Series; it's been edited to remove some content and clarify the episode, but I apologize for any weird cuts or irrelevant info from the original version.

Visiting Wrangell-St. Elias in 2023

So you want to visit Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve in 2023? You've come to the right place! I sat down (virtually) with Carrie Wittmer, team lead for the Division of Interpretation & Education, to discuss visiting Wrangell-St. Elias this summer; this is the audio-only version of our conversation which was originally video.
You'll learn things like: ★ Important info about the size and geography of Wrangell-St. Elias ★ A run-through of the access points and visitor centers in the park ★ Tips on safely visiting, hiking, seeing glaciers, and other things to do
And SO much more!
In the Q&A section, Carrie answers the following questions:
How long should you expect to allow to drive the McCarthy Road full length?
Is the Motherlode mine open?
How do you get from McCarthy to Kennecott?
What is the app for each national park?
What are the options for non-camping lodging in the park, or in Copper Center/Glennallen?
Have other questions about visiting Wrangell-St. Elias? Here's what to do:
Head on over to my Alaska Travel Guide – I've got TONS of Alaska articles to help you plan your trip.
Visit the official website for Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve
This episode was originally released as part of my 2023 Alaska Seminar Series; it's been edited to remove some content and clarify the episode, but I apologize for any weird cuts or irrelevant info from the original version.