Calling all travelers! Get ready to experience the ultimate Alaska summer adventure with our action-packed 10-day itinerary
Ready to embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of Alaska’s wilderness? Look no further! Homestead Hideaways’ Ultimate Alaska Vacation Itinerary isn’t just a list of places to visit – it’s a road-tested short list crafted by Alaskan locals who have personally explored each destination. So, buckle up and get ready for an unforgettable journey through the Last Frontier! If you plan to arrive via airplane, we suggest booking a multi-city trip with your inbound flight landing in Fairbanks and outbound through Anchorage. This way, you’ll get to see more of the state and avoid spending your precious vacation time driving (even though our roads are some of the most scenic around). Alaska is a big state!
Day 1-3: Fairbanks – Gateway to the North
Begin your Alaskan adventure in Fairbanks, a vibrant city located in the heart of Alaska’s interior on the banks of the Chena River in the Tanana Valley. After arriving, settle into one of our cozy accommodations such as our Star Shaped Midcentury Gem. In summer, Fairbanks is all about hot springs, hiking and Denali National Park (Fairbanks is the closest airport to the National Park). Fuel up for your adventures with delicious meals at local favorites like Chena Pump House or Jazz Bistro, offering a variety of cuisines to satisfy every palate. We especially enjoy Jazz Bistro because they have nightly live Cuban music and delicious food! This is what it sounds like!
On Day 2, immerse yourself in relaxation at Chena Hot Springs, where you can soak in natural mineral pools surrounded by pristine wilderness. Don’t forget to explore Fairbanks’ charm, from its quaint coffee shops like Alaska Coffee Roasting Company to its vibrant nightlife spots like The Library. There are a raft of other day trips that can be booked through our hand picked list here. Forget your gear at home? Check out the locally owned Prospector Outfitters which has everything you’ll need and a bit of Alaskan mining history!
Accommodation: Star Shaped Midcentury Gem (by Homestead Hideaways)
Eating like a Local: Jazz Bistro, Chena Pump House, The Library, Alaska Coffee Roasting Company
Day 3-6: Denali – Land of Majestic Beauty
Next stop: Denali National Park is a great destination known for its tall peak and diverse wildlife. The park’s abundance of wildlife (like our recent bear encounter) can be attributed to its treeless terrain covered in lush green tundra. To have a more exclusive experience away from the crowds, it’s recommended to visit in early May or late September when the park road is open to personal vehicles up to mile 30. This opportunity is not available during other seasons when visitor centers are open. The specific dates for vehicle access vary each year depending on snow conditions (Check here for updates). It’s a unique chance to explore Denali like a local. More information can be found on the National Park website. Driving in your own vehicle allows for up-close encounters with bears, or park buses are a good alternative during the summer with informative narration.
Stay at Denali Princess Lodge, offering comfortable accommodations amidst stunning wilderness views. Spend your days exploring the park on a guided bus tour or embark on thrilling hikes recommended by local rangers. Refuel with hearty meals at 49th State Brewery (Healy) or the (long time local favorite) Lynx Creek Pizza before heading to Anchorage.
Accommodation: Denali Princess Lodge
Eating like a Local: 49th State Brewery, Lynx Creek Pizza
Day 6-7: Anchorage – Urban Adventures Await
In Anchorage, immerse yourself in urban delights while surrounded by rugged natural beauty. Explore the Anchorage Museum (must do), or stroll along the Anchorage Coastal Trail. Indulge in fresh seafood at local gems like 49th State Brewery (Anchorage) or Humpy’s, offering a taste of Alaska’s seafood culinary treasures. Indulge in a drink atop the Captain Cook Hotel (it even has a haunted restroom in the basement for a bit of kitsch), Anchorage’s most luxurious accommodation, at the Crows Nest. We recommend staying at the Captain Cook Hotel because it is convenient to many local hotspots. For a taste of local flavor away from the tourist hubbub, venture to Turkish Delights, Glacier Brewhouse (reservations recommended), Marx Brothers Cafe (reservations recommended), Arctic Roadrunner, Gwennie’s Old Alaska Restaurant or Ray’s Place. These hidden gems offer an authentic glimpse into Anchorage’s vibrant culture and culinary scene, favored by locals in the know.
Anchorage is also a great place to get a quick day-hike in between stops. Check out the Rabbit Lake Trail or Flattop for a 5-8 mile day hike amidst majestic mountains and forests.
Accommodation: Captain Cook Hotel
Eating Like a Local: Turkish Delights, Glacier Brewhouse, Marx Brothers Cafe, Arctic Roadrunner, Gwennie’s Old Alaska Restaurant or Ray’s Place
Day 7-9: Homer – A Coastal Paradise
Embark on a picturesque journey to Homer, an enchanting coastal haven brimming with outdoor escapades. Known as “The Cosmic Hamlet by the Sea” or “A Drinking Village with a Fishing Problem,” Homer captivates visitors with its natural splendor and adventurous spirit. Upon arrival, be greeted by breathtaking vistas of the Kenai Mountains and Kachemak Bay from the scenic bluff overlooking town.
Nestled in the heart of it all is our charming Homer Bungalow, offering cozy accommodations and convenient access to local attractions. Whether you’re drawn to fishing, hiking, water sports, camping, or exploring the iconic Homer Spit—a narrow sandbar bustling with eateries, tour operators, and shops—there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Don’t miss our favorite spots like Alaska Salt Company, AK Starfish Co., Salt | Pine, and Salmon Sisters for a taste of local flair.
For those seeking an extra dose of adventure, experience the ultimate Alaskan getaway at Coho Cabana, our off-grid waterfront retreat in Halibut Cove, just a short 30-minute water taxi ride from Homer. Imagine waking up to the serenade of sea otters and the majestic sight of bald eagles soaring overhead. Cap off your stay in Halibut Cove with a meal at the Saltry Restaurant (also accessible from Homer) and a visit to the Halibut Cove Experience Fine Art Gallery. We can also set up day trips leaving from Halibut Cove – just because you are away from it all doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy an adventure!
Looking for an adventure? Popular day trips leaving from Homer are full/half day Halibut/Salmon fishing adventures by Central Charters and Tours (ask for Captain Faith), Katmai Brown Bear Viewing tours by Smokey Bay Air, or Hiking in Kachemak Bay State Park (and seeing the stunning Grewingk Glacier) via Mako’s Water Taxi. Staying in town? Check out the Pratt Museum, stroll the beach at the Homer Spit or have a drink at the world-famous Salty Dawg Saloon. Check out more adventures via our hand picked list here.
Accommodations: Coho Cabana (Halibut Cove), Cozy Bungalow (Homer). By Homestead Hideaways.
Eating Like a Local: The Saltry Restaurant (Halibut Cove), AJ’s Steakhouse (Homer), Boardwalk Fish and Chips (Homer), Alice’s Champagne Room – Live Music & Eats (Homer), Duncan’s House Diner (Homer), Thai Cosmic Kitchen (Homer), The Twisted Goat (Homer)
Day 9-10: Anchorage – Journey’s End
Conclude your Alaska adventure with a scenic drive back to Anchorage, where you’ll bid farewell to the Last Frontier with memories to cherish forever. Whether you choose to explore the rugged wilderness of Denali or the coastal charms of Homer and Seward, our Ultimate Alaska Vacation Itinerary promises an experience like no other.
Book your stay with us today and get ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime! From cozy lodges to convenient city accommodations, we have everything you need to make your Alaskan dream vacation a reality.
