Alaska, often hailed as the Last Frontier, is poised to celebrate a significant milestone. While the state itself will mark its 100th birthday in 34 years, 2025 is already shaping up to be a year of centennial celebrations for some of its most iconic events and attractions. For travelers seeking the best places to explore in the US, Alaska presents a unique blend of adventure, history, and breathtaking natural beauty, especially in the coming years.
One of the landmark anniversaries is the 100th year of the Serum Run, the heroic 1925 sled dog relay that delivered life-saving diphtheria antitoxin to Nome. This incredible feat of endurance and bravery is commemorated annually by the world-famous Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. This grueling 1,000-mile race captivates spectators from around the globe, who gather along the trail to witness the incredible bond between mushers and their dog teams. To experience the electrifying start of this historical race, consider staying at the Wildbirch Hotel in Anchorage. This brand-new boutique hotel, Anchorage’s first major lodging in two decades, is set to open in early 2025 and offers prime, unobstructed views of the Iditarod starting line. Anchorage itself is a vibrant city and a perfect base to explore Southcentral Alaska, making it one of the Best Places To Travel In The Us for adventure seekers.
Another centennial highlight in 2025 is Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. Designated as a national monument in 1925, this park is a testament to Alaska’s stunning wilderness. Glacier Bay boasts majestic mountains, dramatic coastlines, and an abundance of wildlife. It’s also the ancestral homeland of the Huna Tlingit people, who are actively collaborating with the National Park Service to reclaim and revitalize their oral histories and cultural traditions. A significant achievement of this collaboration is the construction of the Xúnaa Shuká Hít tribal house, marking the first permanent clan house on these shores since glacial activity destroyed villages over 250 years ago. The Huna people also own Icy Strait Point, a premier cruise destination in Southeast Alaska. In 2025, Icy Strait Point will welcome even more exciting cruise itineraries, including Princess Cruises’ 22-day Ultimate Alaska Solstice voyage. Departing from San Francisco in June, this voyage takes full advantage of the extended daylight hours of the summer solstice, offering ample time to soak in the awe-inspiring views of Glacier Bay National Park, Hubbard Glacier, College Fjord, and more. Cruising through Alaska’s Inside Passage and experiencing Glacier Bay is undoubtedly one of the best ways to witness the grandeur of the US.
For those seeking wildlife encounters, particularly bear viewing, Kodiak Brown Bear Center on Kodiak Island is an exceptional destination. Owned by Native Alutiiq people, this center provides intimate and responsible bear viewing experiences in the bears’ natural habitat. Kodiak Island is home to the largest subspecies of brown bear in the world, and the center offers small group tours for an immersive experience. In the summer of 2025, the Kodiak Brown Bear Center will unveil a new wellness center perched on a scenic bluff. They will also launch new six-day fly-fishing programs on the Karluk River. After a day of adventure, guests can relax in wood cabins with lake views and enjoy a traditional Alutiiq Banya-style steam bath, known as maqiwik. Kodiak Island and the Brown Bear Center offer an unparalleled wildlife experience, solidifying Alaska’s place as one of the best places to travel in the US for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.
Getting to Alaska has never been easier. Alaska Airlines has significantly expanded its flight routes in 2024, adding a daily nonstop flight to New York, alongside existing services to San Diego, Nashville, and Portland, Oregon. This increased accessibility makes planning a trip to Alaska, one of the best places to travel in the US, more convenient than ever before.
Plan Your Alaskan Adventure:
To embark on this Alaskan journey, fly directly to Anchorage from numerous cities worldwide. From Anchorage, you can easily access the Iditarod start and other Alaskan destinations. For Glacier Bay National Park, a short flight to Gustavus Airport places you at the park’s doorstep. Alternatively, the Alaska State Ferry offers scenic routes to Gustavus. For a comprehensive Alaskan experience, consider Princess Cruises’ Ultimate Alaska Solstice voyage, starting in San Francisco.
Alaska in 2025, with its centennial celebrations and enhanced accessibility, is undoubtedly one of the best places to travel in the US. Whether you are drawn to historical events, stunning natural landscapes, or incredible wildlife encounters, Alaska offers an unforgettable travel experience.
