Alaska is the epitome of the “final frontier,” with rugged mountains, vast tundra, vast glaciers, and pristine wilderness. Whether you’re a seasoned Alaskan or are considering moving to the state, you may be wondering: What is Alaska known for?
From hidden treasures to iconic attractions and treasured culinary delights, Alaska has plenty to offer. Learn more about why living in Alaska has such appeal, whether you’re settling in Anchorage, renting a cabin in Fairbanks, or just passing through.
Booming economy and opportunities
Alaska’s economy thrives in areas such as oil and gas, fishing, tourism, and mining. Anchorage serves as an economic center, with industries such as transportation and health care making significant contributions.
Main cities with economic activities
- Anchorage: Anchorage is Alaska’s largest city and economic center, with a diversified economy with thriving industries such as transportation, finance, and health care.
- Fairbanks: Fairbanks is best known for its role in the mining industry and is a major transportation and trade center in the Alaska Interior region.
- Juno: As the state capital, Juneau’s economy is driven by government employment, tourism and fishing.
Top Five Employers in Alaska
- University of Alaska
- Providence Alaska Medical Center
- Alaska Regional Hospital
- BP Alaska
- ConocoPhillips Alaska
Must-visit tourist attractions
Alaska’s charms range from stunning natural wonders to unique cultural attractions.
- Denali National Park: Denali is home to North America’s highest peak and provides unparalleled opportunities for wildlife viewing and outdoor adventure.
- Mendenhall Glacier: Conveniently located near Juneau, this glacier showcases Alaska’s stunning glacier landscape.
- kenai fjords National Park: Witness towering fjords, calving glaciers and abundant wildlife in this pristine coastal wilderness.
- Alaska Native Heritage Center: Immerse yourself in Alaska’s Native culture through exhibits, performances and demonstrations.
- Northern Lights: Experience the mesmerizing dance of the Northern Lights visible in Alaska’s dark winter skies.
Interesting facts: Denali National Park in Alaska is bigger than Vermont!
Delicious food all over the state
Alaska’s cuisine reflects its diverse cultural influences and abundant natural resources. From fresh seafood to sumptuous gourmet meals, Alaska offers an unparalleled culinary experience.
Five Must-Try Alaska Dishes
- Alaska King Crab Legs: Indulge in juicy, sweet crab legs caught from the frigid waters of the Bering Sea.
- Wild salmon: Savor the rich, buttery flavor of wild-caught salmon, a staple of Alaskan cuisine.
- Reindeer Sausage: Try this unique Alaskan sausage, made from reindeer meat and usually grilled or stewed.
- Grilled Alaska: Treat yourself to this decadent dessert featuring cake and ice cream topped with toasted meringue.
- Fried bread: Enjoy this traditional Native American bread, fried to perfection and often served with honey or jam.
Interesting facts: Did you know that Alaskan king crabs can weigh up to 24 pounds and have legs that span nearly 6 feet?
Rich cultural entertainment
Alaska’s culture is as diverse as its landscape, influenced by Native traditions, pioneer heritage and modern influences. The state has a vibrant arts scene, with galleries, museums and performing arts venues showcasing local talent.
Alaska’s five cultural gems
- Anchorage Museum: Explore Alaska’s art, history and science through interactive exhibits and cultural displays.
- Alaska Native Heritage Center: Learn about Alaska’s Native culture through traditional dance, storytelling, and artisan demonstrations.
- Fairbanks Ice Museum: Marvel at intricate ice sculptures and learn about Alaska’s ice carving tradition.
- Kodiak Bear: Observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat on Kodiak Island, home to one of the densest brown bear populations in the world.
- Iditarod Sled Dog Race: Experience the excitement of Earth’s last great race, a grueling 1,000-mile journey from Anchorage to Nome.
did you know? The Iditarod Sled Dog Race commemorates the 1925 diphtheria epidemic. Sled dogs race to deliver life-saving serum to Nome, inspiring the annual event.
First class higher education
Alaska’s higher education system offers a wealth of academic programs and research opportunities, with campuses spread across the state’s vast region.
Six famous universities in Alaska
- University of Alaska Anchorage
- University of Alaska Fairbanks
- Alaska Pacific University
- University of Alaska Southeast Elisavik
- Alaska Bible College
Stunning natural beauty
Alaska’s stunning scenery includes rugged mountains, vast forests, and pristine coastlines. The state is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, offering endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.
Five stunning state parks in Alaska
- Denali State Park: Explore towering peaks, lush valleys, and abundant wildlife in the shadow of Mount McKinley.
- Kenai Fjords National Park: Cruise icy fjords, witness calving glaciers, and encounter marine wildlife in this coastal wilderness.
- Wrangell-St. Elias National Park: Explore America’s largest national park, home to towering mountains, vast glaciers and historic mining sites.
- Glacier Bay National Park: Sail past towering glaciers and sparkling fjords in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Tongass National Forest: Immerse yourself in the dense rainforest and rugged coastline of America’s largest national forest.
Interesting facts: Alaska’s Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is larger than Switzerland.
Become a sports paradise
Alaska’s outdoor paradise attracts enthusiasts of all kinds, offering unrivaled adrenaline-pumping opportunities across its diverse landscape, from icy mountain peaks to pristine rivers. Whether it’s fishing tournaments, dog sledding races, hockey games beloved by passionate fan bases, world-class skiing and snowboarding adventures, or hiking and mountaineering adventures exploring rugged terrain and majestic peaks, Alaska’s natural beauty provides exciting opportunities provides the perfect backdrop for a sporting experience.
professional sports team
- Anchorage Glacier Pilots (baseball)
- Alaska Aces (Hockey)
- Alaska Argonauts (baseball)
- Fairbanks IceDogs (Hockey)
- Mat-Su Miners (baseball)
Popular Alaska Phrases
- “Into the wild.” – Embrace Alaska’s untamed wilderness and spirit of adventure.
- “Midnight sun.” – Refers to the phenomenon of 24 hours of sunshine in Alaska during the summer.
- “Bush Airplane.” – Small aircraft used for transportation in remote areas of Alaska.
- “pioneer.” – A name given to Alaska’s long-time residents, derived from the sourdough bread they carried with them during the Gold Rush.
- “Great land.” – Alaska’s nickname, highlighting its vastness and natural beauty.
- “Grown in Alaska.” – Celebrate Alaska’s local produce and products.
- “On top of the world.” – Capture the feeling of being in Alaska’s remote and breathtaking landscapes.
More things Alaska is famous for
- Adventure travel: Alaska’s pristine wilderness and outdoor recreation opportunities attract adventurers from around the world.
- Dog sledding: Embrace Alaska’s sledding culture with everything from the Iditarod to recreational dog sledding tours.
- Salmon fishing: Cast your rod in Alaska’s abundant rivers and streams to catch prized salmon like king, sockeye and coho salmon.
- Northern Lights Photography: Capture the ethereal beauty of the Northern Lights dancing across the Alaskan night sky.
- Gold Rush History: Explore Alaska’s rich mining heritage through historic towns, museums, and gold mining experiences.
