Alaska is a great state to visit if you're looking for a unique vacation option. Visitors to this northernmost part of the US will find that is filled with exciting activities that will draw the interest of even the well-traveled vacationer. The state of Alaska has attractions to suit every taste. Whether you enjoy athletic pursuits, or cultural exploration, you will not be disappointed.History buffs that are planning Alaska trips will want to visit the Kodiak Baranov Museum. Located in downtown Kodiak, the museum provides an excellent milieu for exploring Alaska"s Native American and Russian heritage. If you dig archeology, Alaska trips to the Alutiiq Museum & Archeological Repository might be of interest to you.
Those who are interested in taking Alaska trips to explore the wildlife will enjoy the Alaska Raptor Center in Sitka, where volunteers provide medical treatment for bald eagles and other birds. The center is located near the Tongass National Forest, a temperate rainforest that is in itself worthy of a visit. If you have a fascination with reptiles or marine biology, you will definitely want to visit the Imaginarium in downtown Anchorage, where you can explore ocean life in a marine touch tank and play with exotic reptiles. The Imaginarium also features a fascinating planetarium. Fans of marine life should also consider spending part of their Alaskan vacations at the Alaska Sealife Center in Seward, Alaska, where you can view stellar sea lions, puffins, octopus and Alaskan king crab.
If you want to see marine life up close and personal, you will be thrilled by Alaskan vacations that offer rafting or kayaking trips. Or, if you would prefer a bit more luxury, consider the Alaskan vacations that are offered on wildlife and glacier cruises. Many cruise companies have a specific focus, such as marine wildlife or whale watching.
For those whose affinities lie more with canines than marine life, a winter Alaska vacation package should include a dog sled experience! As you mush your sled along Alaska"s Eskimo trails, you will be treated to the sight of foxes, herds of caribou, moose, otters and other fascinating creatures. Some dog-sled companies also offer Alaska vacation packages that include Alaskan helicopter tours.Are you a thrill seeker who enjoys athletic pursuits? If so, no Alaska vacation package would be complete without a heli-skiing experience. If you have grown weary of ski or snowboard trips that involve long lift-lines and crowded, overly groomed slopes, then heli-skiing might be just what you are looking for. Both the World Extreme Skiing Competition in Valdez in the 1990s and the King of the Hill World Snowboard Championship have made the state of Alaska a mecca for heli-skiing enthusiasts. As a result, the state is home to some of the most experienced heli-guides in North America. Many heli-skiing outfits also offer alternatives to the extreme terrain, which allows strong intermediate skiers and snowboarders to enjoy the heli-skiing experience. If for some reason you have an aversion to helicopters, you can opt for Snowcat skiing or snowboarding.
Perhaps the most unique aspect about a winter trip to Alaska is the Aurora borealis; also know as the Northern Lights. Although the aurora is active year-round, it is best scene when the night sky is at its darkest, which is usually between late August and early April. Whether it's the lights, the wildlife, adventure or culture, Alaska has what you need for a great vacation!
Source: http://www.destination360.com
