While the USA boasts a plethora of incredible travel destinations, for a truly unique experience in 2025, look no further than Alaska. It might be almost three and a half decades away from its 100th birthday as a state, but Alaska is already gearing up to celebrate the centennial of some of its most iconic events and attractions. Imagine witnessing history come alive as you explore the land of stunning glaciers, rich indigenous culture, and thrilling adventures. Alaska in 2025 is poised to be one of the Best Places To Travel In The Usa, offering a blend of history, nature, and exhilarating experiences unlike any other.
One of the landmark centenaries Alaska will be celebrating is the 100th anniversary of the Serum Run, a heroic sled dog relay that played a crucial role in delivering life-saving diphtheria antitoxins to Nome in 1925. This event is commemorated annually with the world-famous Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. The Iditarod is more than just a race; it’s a spectacle that captivates visitors and locals alike. Picture yourself among the crowds lining the 1,000-mile course, cheering on top mushers and their incredible dog teams as they embark on this challenging journey. To fully immerse yourself in the excitement, consider staying at the Wildbirch Hotel in Anchorage. This brand-new boutique hotel, Anchorage’s first major lodging in 20 years, is set to open in early 2025 and offers prime, unobstructed views of the Iditarod start line. With 252 design-forward rooms and collaborations with local artists, the Wildbirch Hotel promises a stylish and convenient base for your Alaskan adventure.
Another Alaskan gem reaching its centennial in 2025 is the breathtaking Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. Established as a national monument in 1925, this natural wonder is a landscape of rugged mountains, dramatic coastlines, and abundant wildlife. Glacier Bay is also the ancestral homeland of the Huna Tlingit people. In a significant move towards cultural preservation, the Huna Tlingit have been working closely with the National Park Service to revitalize and share their oral histories and cultural traditions that were previously suppressed. A testament to this collaboration is the construction of the Xúnaa Shuká Hít tribal house, the first permanent clan house on these shores since glacial activity destroyed villages over 250 years ago. The Huna people also hold ownership of Icy Strait Point, a premier cruise destination in southeast Alaska. In 2025, Icy Strait Point will be a highlight on new sailings, including Princess Cruises’ 22-day Ultimate Alaska Solstice voyage. Departing from San Francisco in June, this itinerary is designed to maximize the long daylight hours of the summer solstice, granting you extended time to soak in the magnificent views of Glacier Bay National Park, Hubbard Glacier, College Fjord, and more. Cruising through these icy landscapes is an unforgettable way to experience one of the best places to travel in the USA.
For travelers seeking an on-land wildlife adventure, the Native-owned Kodiak Brown Bear Center on Kodiak Island is an exceptional choice. This verdant island is home to the largest subspecies of brown bear in the world, and the Kodiak Brown Bear Center offers guided bear viewing experiences in small, intimate groups. Adding to its offerings, the center will unveil a new wellness center in the summer of 2025, perched on a scenic bluff. They will also introduce new six-day fly-fishing programs on the Karluk River. After a day of exploration, guests can unwind in wood cabins with lake views, and partake in a communal Banya-style steam bath, known as maqiwik by the Alutiiq people. This immersive cultural and wildlife experience makes Kodiak Island another of the best places to travel in the USA for nature enthusiasts.
Getting to Alaska is becoming increasingly convenient. Alaska Airlines has expanded its flight schedule in 2024, adding a daily nonstop route to New York, alongside existing services to San Diego, Nashville, and Portland, Oregon. This increased accessibility from major US cities makes planning your Alaskan adventure easier than ever.
Planning Your Alaskan Trip:
To experience the start of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, fly directly to Anchorage from various cities worldwide, including Las Vegas, New York, and Atlanta. From Anchorage, a short 3 hour and 15 minute flight will take you to Gustavus Airport (GST), the gateway to Glacier Bay National Park. Alternatively, if you prefer a scenic journey, the Alaska State Ferry offers regular trips to Gustavus. For those planning a June trip, consider embarking on Princess Cruises’ Ultimate Alaska Solstice voyage from San Francisco, combining convenience and breathtaking scenery.
Alaska in 2025 is not just a destination; it’s a celebration of history, culture, and nature’s grandeur. With centennial milestones and enhanced accessibility, it firmly establishes itself as one of the best places to travel in the USA, promising unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler.
