The Best Time to Visit Alaska

Summer: The Season of the Midnight Sun (June–August)

For most people, the best time to visit Alaska is during the summer months. The temperature stays in the 60s and 70s during the day before dipping into the 40s and 50s at night. Not that there's that much night to be worried about; Alaska experiences about 20 hours of daylight in the summer thanks to a phenomenon known as midnight sun or polar day, with June 21 serving as the longest day of the year. This season also tends to be the driest time of the year, although it does get rainier as the summer progresses. The increase in sunlight gives you plenty of time to enjoy what Alaska has to offer. 

Wildlife viewing is one of the signature attractions of Alaska. The summer is the peak season for whale watching, but you can also go on a tour to see bears or moose making their way around the area (from a safe distance of course). Many other summer activities take place in Anchorage, such as:

- World-class fishing spots 

- Hiking a snow-free trail

- Glacier tours in Prince William Sound

- Witnessing gardens and flower beds in full bloom 

- Several summer community events like the Slam'n Salmon Festival (June), the Bear Paw Festival (July), and the Alyeska Blueberry Festival (August)

This is only a slice of what you can do in an Alaska summer. Don't wait too long to book accommodations; open rooms get claimed pretty quickly.

Fall: Golden Landscapes & Aurora Beginnings (September–October)

The crisp autumn air delivers a different sort of excitement. The "shoulder season" transition results in fewer crowds and fewer bugs buzzing around in the air. The days shorten, the temperature drops to the 40s and 50s, and rain becomes more of a common occurrence. This creates pleasant conditions for those who want to quietly explore Alaska's grandeur, with more space to roam at their own pace. 

Local foliage showcases lovely shades of gold, crimson, and bronze that make for picturesque sightseeing opportunities in Chugach State Park. Early September also marks the beginning of Aurora season, when you can start to view the Northern Lights.  Wildlife watching and hiking trails remain pleasant excursions during the fall. If you're interested in more orchestrated events, you can visit during the Alaska State Fair, which runs from August 21 to September 7, or Zoo Boo at the Alaska Zoo, an annual Halloween tradition where you can grab some candy and play games stationed around the grounds. 

Winter: A Snowy Wonderland (November–March)

The version of Alaska that exists in most people's minds comes to the fore in the wintertime. Snow starts falling in November, setting the stage for trademark Anchorage winter adventures like dog sledding, skiing, and other winter sports. Seeing the sun becomes a luxury as the polar night (the exact opposite of midnight sun) sets in. December 21 is the winter solstice, with Anchorage getting about 5 and a half hours of sunlight from 10 am to 3:30 pm. The cold, long nights may be tough for some, but darkness provides the chance to see an extraordinary display of light. December to February are the peak viewing months for the Aurora Borealis. Tour operators, like Greatland Adventures, that specialize in finding the Aurora are waiting to put you front and center for a photo opportunity you will cherish forever. 

The Anchorage Hotel can serve as a welcoming sanctuary amid the frigid weather. And for visitors with an interest in the supernatural, the hotel has long been rumored to be haunted. Who knows what strange things you may see during those winter nights...

Spring: The Great Awakening (April–May)

An Alaska spring arrives with a relieving upturn in temperature as the snow melts and wildflowers bloom in their place. Locals bid farewell to the winter with the annual Slush Cup, where skiers fly above an icy pond in snazzy costumes, and the NYO Games, a celebration of traditional Alaska Native activities. Migratory birds begin to return to the area, and baby animals make their first appearance in the wild and at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. Hikers get to traverse lower-elevation trails as the parks open up again. 

Best Times for Iconic Anchorage Activities

The best time to visit Anchorage depends greatly on your personal interests. If wildlife viewing is your primary reason to visit, you should plan a trip between June and August for the most active scenery. If you'd like to bear witness to the Northern Lights, the mid-winter is your best bet, although they are visible as early as late August and as late as March. If winter sports are your bag, the deepest snowpacks are present from January to March. 

Essential Travel Tips for Your Anchorage Stay

Any good vacation to Alaska begins with smart preparation. Booking excursions well in advance gives you the best chance to secure a great venue for you to reside as you discover the area. It's also important to bring layers of clothing, regardless of the season. Alaska weather hits different, and you don't want to be overwhelmed by the cold, rain, or snow during your stay. Lastly, make sure you're aware of the sunset times for each season. The amount of sunlight varies wildly over the course of the year and can significantly impact a person's mood. You should think about how that may affect you if you want to come to Alaska in the deep winter or at the height of summer. 

Your Year-Round Home in Downtown Anchorage

The Historic Anchorage Hotel is a great place to set up and see everything Alaska has to offer. The hotel is listed on the National Register of Historic Places due to its seminal history as a place for guests to rest and relax since 1916. Thanks to our location in the center of downtown Anchorage, visitors don't have to go far to find the best of Alaska beyond our doors. Book here to confirm accommodations for your seasonal getaway, or feel free to send us a message if you have any questions about the Historic Anchorage Hotel.  

Image credit: // Shutterstock // Jacob Boomsma