Labor Day weekend marks the final days of summer, as well as the coming of pleasant autumn weather. That said, take your family to Alaska during Labor Day weekend for a few days of outdoor fun and sightseeing. An Alaska vacation rental serves as the perfect home away from home situated close to the attractions you want to visit. From vibrant cities to stunning national parks, this scenic state boasts a seemingly endless bounty of exciting things to do and see. Check out the top Labor Day vacation destinations in Alaska.
1. Anchorage
In the southern part of the state sits the largest city, Anchorage, with the gorgeous Chugach Mountains on one side and the Cook Inlet on the other. More than 100 miles of bike paths wind its way through the city, so rent bikes from Alaska Pablo’s Bicycle Rentals to take advantage of the weather and see the city. Head to see the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and animals including bison, black bears, foxes, and eagles.
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2. Kenai
Located on the western side of the Kenai Peninsula and along the river of the same name, Kenai is a dream location for a family that loves fishing. Hire a local company to take you to the perfect place for angling and catching king, , sockeye, and pink salmon. Corsetti’s Guide Service specializes in guiding small groups to the best fishing spots. Don your good walking shoes for an afternoon of hiking and wildlife viewing in the US Wildlife Refuge. You might see bison, bears, foxes, and raccoons.
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3. Seward
On the southeastern side of the Kenai Penisula is the charming town of Seward, a popular stop for cruise ships. Start your visit with a stroll through the small downtown area and pick up a unique souvenir at one of the shops. Sign up for a day with Kenai Fjords Tours to see the stunning Kenai Fjords National Park and learn more about the formations of this marvels from the knowledgeable guide. This area is filled with icebergs and exciting whale watching spots.
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4. Fairbanks
Close to the Arctic Circle, Fairbanks is a bustling city by Alaska standards and offers mornings even at the end of summer. Provide your family with a once-in-a-lifetime experience by booking a trip to an isolated village by plane to see polar bears playing in the snow through Northern Alaska Tour Company. In the evening visit the Fairbanks Ice Museum. Located in a vintage theater, this museum displays glittering ice sculptures and offers a nightly aurora show. Walk the Bridge of Flags to see the state flags of all 50 states.
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5. Healy
National Park lovers flock to the small town of Healy for its access to the Denali National Park. Stop by the visitor’s center to review the schedule of ranger- programs and free walking tours of the park. See the beautiful landscape from the back of a covered wagon by booking a tour through Black Diamond Draft Horse Drawn Covered Wagon. This group includes a hearty meal. Another option is to ride on a horse, and Denali Horseback Tours provides the horses and a guide.
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6. Kodiak
In southwestern Alaska on Kodiak Island, Kodiak provides your family a location to appreciate nature. Take a tour of the more isolated parts of the island and possibly catch sight of the famous brown bears by booking through Island Air Service. At Fort Abercrombie State Park, visit the Kodiak Military History Museum. The museum is inside the Ready Ammunition Bunker, a truly unique spot, and teaches you more about the history of World War II.
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7. Juneau
As the capital city, Juneau is a popular place to search for a vacation rental. Hop on the Mount Roberts Tramway for stunning views of the scenery and ride up to the top of the mountain. From there, you can spend the afternoon hiking and explore the mountain or pick up a souvenir from the small gift shop and ride back to the bottom. As a popular cruise ship destination, this city has a lot of tour companies offering fabulous day trips, including the Juneau Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour from Alaska Shore Excursions.
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8. Sitka
Sitka sits on the picturesque Baranof Island with views of the Pacific Ocean, and a vacation rental with this view is the perfect place to enjoy your morning of joe on the deck or balcony. Sitka National Historical Park offers ranger- interpretive walks and carving demonstrations, or opt to venture out on to the hiking trails as a family. Stop by the Indian River and locate the Arched Bridge to view the salmon, chum, coho, and chinook swimming. Enjoy a day on the with Alaska Adventure Sailing.
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9. Skagway
Due to its proximity to the fjord of the Inland Passage, Skagway is a hot spot for cruise ships so the town has lots to offer. Start your visit with a walk around the downtown and harbor area to check out all the shops and restaurants. It’s all aboard at the White Pass Scenic Railway. The train service provides several scenic options, including one that takes you to the Summit of White Pass. Learn more about what in such a area was like in the past with a tour of the Historic Moore Homestead.
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10. Ketchikan
Spend your holiday weekend in the town of Ketchikan located on the Inside Passage, a popular spot for cruise ships and visitors from around the world for its natural beauty. Explore this stunning area by booking an afternoon through the Misty Fjords and Ketchikan Alaska Sea Kayak Rentals and Tours. Opt for a guided tour so you don’t miss out on the best sights or head out on your own. Learn more about the Native Americans who once flourished in this area at the Totem Bight State Historic Site and stretch your legs on one of the many walking trails.
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