When most people think of Alaska, visions of expansive wilderness and awe-inspiring scenery typically come to mind. And yet, there are so many charming communities in Alaska that are equally as remarkable. In truth, Alaska is a land of small towns separated by vast stretches of wilderness and miles of highways. These small Alaska towns are as charming as the people are friendly. After getting to know these special places, you may just be tempted to drop everything and move to a tiny town where the air is clear, the scenery is killer, and the people are fiercely individual. But don’t just take our word for it — plan your visit soon!
Our list of incredible Alaska towns begins in Seward. Seward is known for being breathtakingly beautiful on a clear day. This oceanside spot offers access to the Kenai Fjords National Park and the amazing Alaska Sea Life Center. While it's a worthy place to visit in any season, you'll have to agree that it makes for an incredible autumn day trip in Alaska.
Rich with Alaskan history, this town has survived an almost complete rebuild after the Good Friday Earthquake and Tsunami. Valdez is in the heart of Prince William Sound with some of the world's highest coastal mountains, covered in enchanting waterfalls. If you're someone who appreciates both history and scenery, a trip to this quaint Alaskan town belongs at the top of your bucket list.
Sitka lies on the Pacific Ocean in the shadow of the lovely Mount Edgecumbe, a picturesque dormant volcano. This seaside town is the place to dine on wild Alaskan seafood and hike in the temperate rainforest. That's right - Alaska is home to a rainforest and it's positively magical!
Just a short drive south of Anchorage is the tiny mountain town of Girdwood where the skiing is world-class, the hotels are luxurious, the bakery is a legend and the Chugach Mountains reign supreme. In fact, if you're a fan of delicious local dining in Alaska, you'll be impressed by all the unique places to dine in Girdwood.
In Bethel, there are few cars, but it seems like everyone has a boat! This hub of southwestern Alaska is known for having the best sunsets in the state. Learn more about what life in this tiny Alaska town with no cars is like.
On the Glenn Highway in the Talkeetna and Chugach mountains, the tiny town of Chickaloon is a popular launching pad for outdoor adventures on the Matanuska River from glacier hiking, ice climbing and white water rafting. Chickaloon is so stunning, and it's home to some of the most incredible natural wonders in Alaska.
Hyder lies just over the Canadian border in Southeast Alaska and features beautiful hiking, friendly folks and several saloons. Get "Hyderized" and you may never want to leave. When it comes to unique places to live in Alaska, the town of Hyder may just take the cake!
Kotzebue, the small town in Western Alaska, lies just above the Arctic Circle. The streets are lined with brightly colored wooden houses that face the vastness of the Kotzebue Sound. If you've ever wondered what life is like above the Arctic Circle, this fascinating Alaska destination belongs on your bucket list.
This town on the mighty Susitna River, with access to Denali and the Alaska Range, has it all. Talkeetna boasts excellent outdoor opportunities, amazing pizza and local brew, a raucous dance hall, and the mayor is a cat. Who could ask for anything more? It's one of our favorite tiny Alaska towns with delicious places to dine.
Hope is a charming, historic town with great access to outdoor activities. In this convenient spot for a weekend escape from Anchorage, the laid back vibe will may it terribly hard to leave. In fact, Hope might just be one of the most underrated places to live in Alaska.
This little berg is on the ocean side of the world's longest highway tunnel has numerous glaciers only a kayak trip away, hikes to gorgeous spots, and a creepy abandoned building. A stop for both the train and the Alaska Marine Highway, find your way to Whittier and you will fall under the spell of this unique, and uniquely beautiful place.
Make sure you visit all of these charming towns before moving to one. Each one has its own personality, but they are all wonderful places to live, the kind you only find in Alaska.
How many of these towns have you been to? Tell us about it in the comments below — we would love to hear from you! Looking for some related reading? Check out our list of the absolute coolest towns in Alaska.
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Beth C. |September 19, 2022
What are some of the most beautiful places I can go to in Alaska?
Alaska is absolutely overflowing with beauty and scenery. In fact, you'd be hard-pressed to find a location in Alaska that's not visually stunning. Fortunately, we've put together an Alaska bucket list that includes some of the most gorgeous places in the state. At the top of the list is, of course, Denali, which means "the great one." This giant mountain peak is the tallest in all of North America, measuring 20,310 feet above sea level. Next up on the list would be Mendenhall Glacier, located just outside of Juneau. Guided tours will show you just how incredible and vast this glacier is, and photos simply do not do justice. Lastly, viewing the Aurora Borealis is a must if you visit Alaska during the fall, winter, or early spring. There's no one place to see these northern lights, but you'll have a good chance if you explore the Fairbanks area. If you're still wondering "where can I go in Alaska to see the northern lights?", we've put together an overview guide for you!
