If you got your ESTA travel permit, it is time to go outside and experience what the US has to offer for tourism. With an esta online application, you can enter the U.S. when you want – and it is the travel authorization document you need to show the border agents.
Alaska is a prime location if you like the cold but homely atmosphere it offers to anyone.
But how can you experience Alaska? Well, you have many options. There are family activities, a lively nightlife environment, and a couple of towns you definitely want to check out. If you are ready, let us find out.
Alaska vacations with kids
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If you are a fan of the cold climate, your best bet is to go after September. Summer offers zero snow and a mild temperature. However, the latter might be better for kids.
That said, make sure to pack comfortable shoes. Alaska means hiking, and kids will probably want to play a lot outside. Make sure to pack good equipment, like water, a GPS, and protein snacks.
Make sure to consider what kids like best and plan which regions offer a better time for that. Great destinations include the Reindeer Farm, the Kenai Fjords, and the Winner Creek hiking trail.
How is the nightlife in Alaska?
If you are more into the nightlife, you are still in luck. The northern lights are a wonderful sight, so make sure to visit between August and April.
Arts and culture are also excellent offerings if you are not into nature. Cities are always filled with live music events and theatre. If you like dancing, Alaska has some amazing schools, including tango and swing.
For people who want to enjoy a few drinks at night, then the bar scene is just what you need. Alaska is home to iconic establishments, so you are not short on options.
Things to do in Healy, Alaska
Where to stay
The leader is definitely the Denali Primrose, a bed & breakfast resort. It is just far enough from the highway to feel like you are camping.
The Aspen Haus is another great option if you are into cabins. Their resort has an amazing view over the Alaska Range, and they are right next to the Denali National Park. Cabins have private baths and appliances for your convenience.
Finally, the Denali Dome Home is a unique place to stay if you want an eccentric room with amazing sights. Their hot breakfast is delightful, and there are computers and free Wi-Fi if you need to work.
Where to eat
Healy has something for all appetites. If you want a more elaborate meal than what you have made, some of the following restaurants are amazing choices:
- Eastern European enthusiasts will love the Moose-Aka. You can find schnitzel and crepes along with amazing draft wine and beer.
- 229 Parks is the ideal place to eat if you want something fresh. They take it seriously, harvesting locally and offering dishes depending on the season.
- The Alaska Cabin Nite Dinner Theater is a log cabin, where you can see live music with folk instruments. Their menu is an all-you-can-eat with lots of variety.
- Lastly, the Prospectors Pizzeria and Alehouse is the ideal destination to eat Italian and enjoy a side of Alaska’s history,
The Denali National Park
The main attraction, a dozen miles away from Healy, is the Denali National Park. Six million acres makes it one of the largest national parks, and it sports the highest North American mountain peak.
Its abundant wildlife spans many species. Discovery even added it to its top 10 list of places to experience wildlife. You could always bring RV and give your family that RV camping adventure that they’ve always wanted.
Also Read: 15 Pretty Beaches to Visit for Your Honeymoon
Things to do in Hope, Alaska
Chugach Outdoor Center
If you like rafting, this is Alaska’s best option. The whitewater takes 70 miles and drops 50 feet for each one. You can find both class 4 and 5 whitewater routes.
Angle 45 Adventures
Angle 45 is a homely, family-owned guide service. Their speciality is fishing and a national refuge. You can take boat tours for different fish species, and they offer gear and snacks.
Adventure Alaska Tours
Adventure Alaska is perfect for small groups, and their packages include general touring and wilderness trips. You can experience sightseeing and natural history, as well as sports and dog sledding.
If you are eager to use your esta status check, Alaska is an amazing option. Just remember to apply early – you need around 72 hours for the ESTA application to be approved. Ensure you have all the documents ready for easy approval – and you can visit the U.S. within two years without having to worry about renewing your ESTA visa. Nature lovers will fall in love with the parks, and kids will have a blast with the countless tours and activities.
