6-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Anchorage, Seward, Homer, Alaska in August 2023

  1. Day 1: Anchorage
    15 minutes (5.1 miles) from Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport

    Start your journey in Anchorage by exploring the beautiful Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. The trail offers breathtaking views of the ocean, mountains, and wildlife. After that, visit the Anchorage Market & Festival to experience local food, art, and live music.

  2. Day 2: Seward
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    2 hours and 13 minutes (126 miles) from Anchorage

    Take a scenic drive to Seward and explore the Kenai Fjords National Park by taking a wildlife and glacier cruise. Spot whales, sea otters, seals, and bald eagles while enjoying the stunning view of glaciers and mountains. After that, visit the Alaska SeaLife Center to learn about marine life and conservation efforts.

  3. Day 3: Homer
    3 hours and 13 minutes (155 miles) from Seward

    Drive to Homer and start by visiting the Homer Spit, a long, narrow strip of land that extends into Kachemak Bay. Here, you can enjoy fishing, kayaking, and beachcombing. Take a hike up to the Homer Spit Trail to enjoy the panoramic view of the bay and the mountains. After that, visit the Pratt Museum to learn about the history and culture of the area.

  4. Day 4: Homer
    0 minutes (0 miles) from previous location

    On your second day in Homer, take a trip to the Kachemak Bay State Park. It's only accessible by boat or plane, so you'll have to take a water taxi or a guided tour. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. After that, visit the Bunnell Street Arts Center to see local art and exhibitions.

  5. Day 5: Anchorage
    4 hours and 15 minutes (222 miles) from Homer

    Drive back to Anchorage and visit the Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center to learn about the history, art, and culture of Alaska. After that, take a stroll around the Lake Hood Floatplane Base, the world's busiest seaplane airport, and watch planes take off and land on the water.

  6. Day 6: Anchorage
    20 minutes (7.8 miles) from Downtown Anchorage

    End your journey in Anchorage by visiting the Alaska Native Heritage Center to learn about the indigenous cultures of Alaska. The center offers exhibits, performances, and hands-on activities. After that, visit the Anchorage Hillside to enjoy a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding mountains.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Tony Knowles Coastal Trail (2-3 hours, free)
  • Anchorage Market & Festival (2-3 hours, free)
  • Wildlife and Glacier Cruise in Kenai Fjords National Park (6-8 hours, $150-200)
  • Alaska SeaLife Center (2-3 hours, $25)
  • Homer Spit (2-3 hours, free)
  • Homer Spit Trail (1-2 hours, free)
  • Kachemak Bay State Park (6-8 hours, $100-150)
  • Bunnell Street Arts Center (1-2 hours, free)
  • Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center (2-3 hours, $20)
  • Lake Hood Floatplane Base (1-2 hours, free)
  • Alaska Native Heritage Center (2-3 hours, $25)
  • Anchorage Hillside (1-2 hours, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $345-445
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