That won’t stop us from enjoying Alaska. Here is the Top 10 List (from the Home Office) on destinations/activities around the state:
10. Alyeska Resort. Lots of stuff at our world-class resort just down the road. Above–it was a nice day for FLYING over Girdwood today! But the first one that caught my attention is Octoberfest in…uh…September (24 and 25). Oh, OK, it’s going for two weekends, including Oct. 1 and 2. There’s gonna be beer, polka and Bratwurst. If you’re lucky, there will be some yodeling somewhere!!
9. Alaska Railroad. Really, any time I can ride on the Alaska Railroad–it’s a good day. Of course, you can ride the rails year-round up to Talkeetna or Fairbanks. But, uh, the beer train is coming up on Oct. 2. This always sells out–so act fast! The fare of $159 includes six half-pints of the Glacier Brewhouse’s finest brews! Plus–heavy hors d’oeuvres! Call (800)544-0552.
8. Land’s End Resort in Homer. Great spot. I’m headed down there for a conference near the end of the month. But any excuse will do. Check out the monthly “Uncorked” food/wine events. There’s a Murder Mystery scheduled. Sometimes it’s nice just to hop on Era Alaska and fly down for a quick getaway on the beach! Don’t miss it.
7. Kaktovik. Hey! Remember we talked about the Polar Bears!! Act quick–there are just a couple of departures in September up on the Arctic Slope!
6. Chena Hot Springs. This time of year, Chena (about 60 miles outside of Fairbanks) is kind of the “local’s hangout” with the natural hot springs. But the Northern Lights sightings may start any time! And then there’s the Ice Hotel. It’s awesome. So are the hot-house tomatoes that Bernie Karl grows right on the premises. Eveything is powered by geothermal energy!
5. Kodiak. I love Alaska’s Emerald Isle. Mostly, I’m fond of the deer hunting about this time of year. But there’s always something going on, whether it’s along the beach by Fort Abercrombie, or down the road to ward Pasagshak Bay. Check it out!
4. Alaska’s Marine Highway. Can’t beat the ferry. Sail to Kodiak–or down through Southeast Alaska. Later this month I’m riding the Fast Ferry (the Fairweather) between Skagway and Juneau. You can sail all the way to Prince Rupert and Bellingham, of course. Great family holiday!
3. Golden Circle. My ferry trip is part of the “Golden Circle” tour. That’s where we sail from Juneau up to Skagway, then up to Whitehorse, over to Haines Junction and back down to Haines. The colors are beautiful, the mountains are bold and beautiful–and we’re going to have a great time. Full report to follow.
2. Alaska SeaLife Center. Whether it’s to see the aquarium, to learn about how the center rehabilitates critters or for the gift shop, make it a point to drive down to Seward and see this all-Alaskan exhibit. Hike around Exit Glacier while you’re at it.
1. Seattle. OK–I know it’s not in Alaska, but who doesn’t dream of eating at some great restaurants or taking a harbor cruise there in Seattle? It’s a great city–and it’s waiting for you! Nearby: San Juan Islands and Victoria. In fact, all three areas are covered in the Seattle TourSaver. It’s the 2-for-1 travel books with all the good things to do included!! Plus, it’s $30 off when you order online!
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