How to Enjoy more of Alaska

Categories Many people think a cruise is the only way to see Alaska.  That's probably most true for the inland passage, to see Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Haines, and certainly Glacier National Park.  But here are some great ways to enhance that cruise.

Cruising to Alaska is the most popular way to experience the Last Frontier. Majestic glaciers, towering mountains and abundant wildlife are viewable from cruise ships exploring the coastline of Alaska. But to see more of the state, to really experience the wonder that is Alaska, visitors should add land packages to their cruise itineraries. The easiest way to do this is to book cruises that cross the Gulf of Alaska.

One-way, Gulf of Alaska cruises start or end in Whittier or Seward, port towns in Southcentral Alaska. These cruises include Glacier Bay and the Inside Passage but also open up land exploration to parts of Alaska out of reach on round-trip Seattle cruises.

By motorcoach, rail or as an independent trip, spend a few days exploring Anchorage and the surrounding areas. Open doors to new cultures, flavors and inspiring sights not accessible while on board the ship. Stroll to the Anchorage Museum for insight into the history and people that shaped the state. The Alaska Native Heritage Center shows visitors the life and traditions of each cultural group through dance, art, storytelling and sport demonstrations.

Exploring the state’s many national parks is a visitor favorite. North America’s tallest peaks await in Denali National Park. Whales, seabirds, otters and fantastic tidewater glaciers fill Prince William Sound and Kenai Fjords National Park. Prime bear viewing spots in Lake Clark and Katmai national parks are just a short hop from Anchorage.

Moose, beluga whales, eagles and salmon are all regular sights in and around Anchorage. For guaranteed viewing, check out the arctic creatures residing at the Alaska Zoo or head to Portage for a self-guided tour of the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. Day cruise captains in Seward and Whittier know the waters best. They can get you close to calving glaciers, breaching whales and spots that can’t be reached by larger vessels.

To learn more about Anchorage go to Visit Anchorage’s exclusive CPU channel. To learn more about how to book land in Alaska, visit www.Anchorage.net/travel-trade.