Looking for a spring vacation destination that’s out of the ordinary without having to leave the U.S.?
Not everyone wants to spend their spring flopping on a tropical beach.
And if your idea of fun is exploring nature and marveling at the beauty of the world around you, then the most northerly state in the United States is a great choice for you instead.
Breathtakingly beautiful, one-of-a-kind wildlife encounters and a rich and unique cultural history make this vacation spot really stand out from the crowd.
Here’s why this unexpected state will make your jaw drop this spring:
A Mecca For Nature Lovers
We are, of course, talking about Alaska.
And it would be impossible to talk about visiting Alaska in the springtime without waxing lyrical about the outstanding natural beauty.
Spring is the time when the state comes back to life, and the winter color palette of grey and white snow is relaxed by the blue of the deep water and the green of trees and forests. Waterfalls that have been frozen all winter start pouring down mountains again.
All of these means that Alaska looks incredible in the springtime, making it a great spot for hikers and outdoor adventure lovers.
April is not only the driest month in Alaska, it is also the clearest month of the year, making this a great time to visit if you plan to spend as much time outside as possible.
Incredible Animal Encounters
And you’re going to want to spend time outside when there are so many opportunities to spot wildlife you rarely see elsewhere.
Spring is the best time to spot grey whales in Alaska. Head to Seward and hop on a boat for a whale-watching tour.
These magnificent creatures are best spotted in the region between mid-March and mid-May.
If you’d rather stay on dry land then Spring is also a great time to spot Moose and Bears in Alaska too. Head to Anchorage if you want to spot a Moose in its natural environment.
The season’s calves tend to arrive in Spring, so you may spot a whole family unit if you’re lucky.
Late April to May is the best time to visit if you want to spot early season bears as this is when they awake from hibernation and begin to become more active in their communities.
Prefer your animals in a more controlled environment?
The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is a great spot for exploring all of the wildlife native to the state, and at much closer quarters than you can in the wild. You’ll find musk ox, caribou, and wood bison in abundance here.
Explore Your Own Way
There are so many ways to explore Alaska.
You could plan an independent land tour, take a breathtaking railroad ride, or book onto one of the many popular cruises that visit the state.
2024 is set to be another record-breaking year for Alaskan cruise ships, which broke all tourism records in 2023. 1.65 million cruise passengers visited Juneau alone last year.
The Alaskan cruise season runs from early April through ‘til late October meaning that this is a great option if you want to see the state come to life in Spring.
If you’re looking for something a little different, then the Coastal Classic train is considered to be the most scenic railroad route in Alaska.
Running from Anchorage to the Kenai Fjords National Park it is the breathtaking views you’ll pass on the way that make this journey truly unforgettable.
And of course if you want to be in control of your own destiny then you can always hire a car and explore the awe-inspiring beauty of this breathtaking state at your own pace.
Cultural Explorations
Alaska has a unique culture, and spring is a great time to explore and embrace this.
The people of Alaska are culturally diverse, and this is reflected in the traditions and art of the region.
Anchorage is the best place to visit for museums and cultural centers if you want to explore Alaska’s rich culture.
Some of the best of these include The Anchorage Museum, which boasts an incredible and expansive native art collection.
The Alaska Museum of Science and Nature is a fascinating spot to learn more about how Alaska’s unique landscapes were formed.
One of the best ways to find hidden gems and must-visit attractions in Alaska is to ask a local.
Generally friendly and welcoming, they are keen to share their passion for their local beauty spots with enthusiastic visitors.
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