Alaskan Adventures with the Family

1. Day 1: Anchorage Botanical Garden
   15 minutes (6.8 miles) from Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport

   Explore the vibrant flora and fauna of Alaska at the Anchorage Botanical Garden. Stroll through the gardens, witness the butterfly house, and take a guided tour.

2. Day 2: Tony Knowles Coastal Trail
   18 minutes (8.4 miles) from Anchorage Botanical Garden

   Take a scenic hike on the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail with stunning views of the ocean, mountains, and wildlife. Bike rentals and bear safety classes are available.

3. Day 3: Kenai Fjords National Park
   3 hours and 30 minutes (150 miles) from Tony Knowles Coastal Trail

   Embark on a stunning glacier and wildlife cruise through the icy waters of the Kenai Fjords National Park. Experience close encounters with humpback whales, otters, and sea lions in their natural habitat.

4. Day 4: Denali National Park
   4 hours and 30 minutes (236 miles) from Kenai Fjords National Park

   Visit Denali National Park to witness the beauty of the Alaskan wilderness. Take a guided bus tour to see the stunning views of Mount Denali, the highest peak in North America, and spot grizzly bears, caribou, and moose.

5. Day 5: Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race Headquarters
   2 hours and 10 minutes (113 miles) from Denali National Park

   Step into the world of dog mushing at the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race Headquarters. Meet the canine athletes and hear stories from mushers. Try dog sledding in the summer on a wheeled sled.

6. Day 6: Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center
   2 hours and 20 minutes (120 miles) from Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race Headquarters

   Take a short hike to the Mendenhall Glacier and explore the ice caves at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center. Learn about the history and science behind the impressive glacier and snap some photos.

7. Day 7: Alaska SeaLife Center
   11 minutes (0.5 miles) from Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center

   Wrap up your Alaskan adventure by visiting the Alaska SeaLife Center in Seward. Discover the marine life of Alaska and watch sea otters, seals, and puffins up close.

Recommendations

Consider taking a day trip to the Matanuska Glacier, where you can hike on the glacier and explore ice caves. Also, don't miss a chance to try fresh Alaskan seafood at local restaurants like Orso or Simon and Seaforts. For maximizing your fun, pack plenty of layers and rain gear to prepare for Alaska's unpredictable weather.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Anchorage Botanical Garden (2 hours, $15)
• Tony Knowles Coastal Trail (3 hours, free)
• Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise (6 hours, $175)
• Denali National Park Guided Bus Tour (8 hours, $169)
• Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race Headquarters (2 hours, $10)
• Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center (3 hours, $10)
• Alaska SeaLife Center (2 hours, $25)
• Total Estimated Costs: $404 per person

To find the best hotel and flight prices, click here.