7 Tiny Towns in Alaska That Come Alive in the Summertime

The Last Frontier absolutely comes alive during the long midnight sun, and these awesome summer towns in Alaska do as well. We’ve rounded up our favorite seven tiny towns in Alaska that explode with things to explore and do when the days grow longer. From coastal areas to fun in the interior, we love escaping to these small spots all summer long.

1. Hope

Hope, Alaska, is a tiny little town of approximately 200 people. Located on the Cook Inlet on the Kenai Peninsula, its small downtown comes alive with travelers all summer long. Hike, fish, camp, and more at this tiny spot just two hours from Anchorage.

2. Seward

This little spot is located right on Resurrection Bay. The mountains spill down into the sea in this wondrous area, and it can be hard to choose whether you want to play in the ocean or hike the nearby mountains. Hit one of the great restaurants in town after a day spent whale watching or at the Alaska Sealife Center and enjoy this awesome town!

3. Cooper Landing

Cooper Landing is the place to be if you love fishing during the Alaska summer. Cooper Landing and its couple of charming restaurants and bars start hopping when the sun doesn’t set. Kenai Lake and Kenai River are packed with those who want to fish for Alaska salmon, and there are plenty of nearby trails to stretch your legs.

4. Seldovia

This hidden hamlet is located across Kachemak Bay, only accessible by plane or ferry. Rent a boat and explore the nooks and crannies of the nearby bays, spend the day fishing, or grab a bite to eat at one of the fun little restaurants on the waterfront. Walk the boardwalk and see what Seldovia is famous for, the charming houses floating above the tidal water line.

5. Talkeetna

Talkeetna is the center of summer fun, located just a hop, skip, and a jump away from Denali National Park. Come for the fishing and stay for the food as you stroll downtown’s restaurant scene. Check out the river, take a flight-seeing tour to Denali, or get out on an ATV and explore the national and state parks nearby.

6. Girdwood

Girdwood has it all: award-winning dining, seven beautiful glaciers, incredible hiking, and more. Take the tram to the top of Mount Alyeska and hike around, spend a day at the Nordic Spa, and soak in the views. Whether rain or shine (Girdwood is the northernmost temperate rainforest in the world,) it’s hard not to love every minute in this fun summer town.

7. Homer

This town is everything Alaskan. Hanging glaciers, the Salty Dawg Saloon, Kachemak Bay filled with passing pods of orca whales ... it’s the place to be when the sun never sets! Don’t forget to hit the local art galleries and check out everything this town has to offer. And the Homer Spit is one of our very favorite places to visit, but go hungry so you can try some of the amazing cafes, restaurants, and bars.

Looking for more great small towns? Make sure to check out the 15 coolest small towns in Alaska you’ve probably never heard of. And if you have a favorite small town in Alaska that you love to visit, let us know by filling out this nomination form. We'd love to hear from you.