The Ultimate 7 Day Alaska Itinerary – A Local’s Guide

Are you looking for an amazing 7-day Alaska Itinerary? Then I got you covered!

From the top hikes in the Kenai Fjords National Park and the hidden eateries with the freshest Alaskan king crab to the top fishing destinations in the state, this one-week Alaska itinerary highlights the best of the best on the Kenai Peninsula!

Your journey will begin from the city of Anchorage or Fairbanks (depending on the season) and will include the most scenic cities and small towns, activities, restaurants, and more! I’ve also included some essential information for your trip so you have everything you need before heading to the airport.

Planning an itinerary can always be stressful, and you’ll have a hard time finding hidden gems and secret hotspots.

For that reason, I have asked my friends from Sea To Summit Alaska to help out with this post. They have called The Last Frontier their home for nearly a year and were so excited to share their insider knowledge with me. They are real experts on everything in Alaska.

Let’s dive in!

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Alaska 7-Day Itineraries – at a Glance

To make things extra convenient for you, I’ve actually created two itineraries: one for summer and one for winter.

So, whether you were hoping to jump on a fishing tour around Resurrection Bay or go northern lights hunting in Alaska’s near-complete darkness, we’ve got you covered.

Check out both of my custom Alaska itineraries below here and keep on reading for more detailed descriptions and insider knowledge.

Alaska Summer Itinerary	Alaska Winter Itinerary
Day 1: Anchorage to Seward	Day 1: Arrival in Fairbanks
Day 2: Seward & Kenai Fjords National Park	Day 2: Fairbanks
Day 3: Seward to Homer	Day 3: Fairbanks
Day 4: Homer & Kachemak Bay	Day 4: Fairbanks to Anchorage
Day 5: Homer	Day 5: Girdwood
Day 6: Homer to Anchorage	Day 6: Seward
Day 7: Anchorage & Return Home	Day 7: Seward to Anchorage

Alaska Itinerary 7 Days Summer

Arrival at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport

For this 1 week Alaska itinerary, you’ll start your journey in Anchorage.

The Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport is the international airport in the city. You will mostly be arriving there.

Head to arrivals and get your checked bags from the baggage claim area. Then head downstairs to pick up your rental car, as you will need it for this itinerary.

If you’re feeling a bit tired from the journey, don’t forget to fuel yourself with an espresso. Check out the Alaska House of Coffee on West Northern Lights Boulevard before the drive!

Trust me on this one, I’ve tested dozens of coffee shops in Anchorage and this one is the best.

Day 1: Anchorage to Seward

Once you have a snack and beverage in hand, you’ll hop on AK-1 South towards Seward. It is a picturesque coastal town that also happens to be where my friend Emily got married.

This scenic drive will reward you with exceptional views along the famous Seward Highway. You’ll pass by Beluga Point, which is popular for spotting beluga whales.

Other highlights are Turnagain Arm and the beautiful Chugach National Forest.

Along the way, I recommend stopping in Girdwood for an extra pick-me-up from Alpine Bakery. It is my personal favorite on the peninsula, especially their 1-pound fudge brownies.

Stop at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

Continue for 11 more miles south to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.

It is the perfect halfway stopping point to break up the 2.5-hour drive to Seward. But it’s also one of the best places in the state to see wildlife.

You can see everything from reindeer and moose to grizzly bears, bald eagles, and even foxes and wolves.

All of the animals have been rescued from the Alaskan wilderness and have either been rehabilitated or will be released when it’s safe to do so. Some are given a forever home within the conservation center if release would cause further harm.

It’s a great way to practically guarantee sightings of North America’s majestic animals while simultaneously contributing to a wonderful cause. Following your visit, continue 90 more minutes to the town of Seward.

Arrival in Seward

After arrival, take some time to check into your accommodation. The Seward Windsong Lodge offers modern, yet rustic rooms.

Alternatively, the Angels Rest on Resurrection Bay a bit further down in Lowell Point offers a true escape from the city. They have some of the best views of the Kenai Mountains.

Once you’ve checked in, head into town and grab a bite to eat at Ray’s Waterfront Restaurant. The oysters are fresh, the seafood Alfredo is to die for, and the drinks are always on par.

Finish off your evening with a walk along the docks of the small boat harbor that is right in front of the restaurant.

Be patient, sit quietly, and listen. It’s very common to see sea otters floating on their backs, eating mussels from the ocean floor.

Day 2: Seward & Kenai Fjords National Park

Start your day with a quick visit to The Porthole food truck (typically located near the J-Dock). Grab some delicious breakfast burritos.

Make sure to fuel yourself before heading down the street for one of the best things to do in Seward – taking a Kenai Fjords Tour!

The tour will take you on a journey through Resurrection Bay en route to the Aialik Glacier. You will go past enormous glaciers and to some of the best whale-watching spots in Alaska.

It’s also an incredible opportunity to see puffins, sea lions, bald eagles, and other Alaskan wildlife. Be sure to bring your camera and some extra layers!

Once you return from your adventure-packed day out at sea, you can enjoy a visit to the Alaska SeaLife Center. There you’ll learn about local wildlife from an expert.

End your day with dinner at The Cookery with freshly caught Alaskan salmon accompanied by the perfect glass of wine.

Day 3: Seward to Homer

Hiking at the Kenai Fjords National Park

Today, you’ll be starting your journey to Homer. First, you’ll have the chance to do a morning hike in the Kenai Fjords National Park.

Pack up the car and head to the Kenai Fjords National Park Visitor Center. There you can pick up a park map and consider your options for a hike.

If you enjoy difficult but rewarding hikes, then the 8.2-mile round-trip hike to the Harding Icefield and Exit Glacier will be your number one choice.

It will be a full-day hike, so if you aren’t up for a long drive following, then maybe consider adding an extra day in Seward.

The 2.3-mile Exit Glacier Loop (1-2 hours) is perfect for families or anyone seeking a short, but beautiful tour in the national park.

It has paved trails, making it easy for those with limited mobility. It also provides an epic view of the Exit Glacier. Optimal for photo opportunities.

Regardless of which hike you choose to do, be sure to bring bear spray. Make plenty of noise while in the park.

Wildlife sightings are common, so you’ll want to talk to a ranger before heading out. This way you can ensure both your and the animal’s safety.

Driving to Homer

Following your visit to the park, jump in the car and start the scenic 3-hour drive along the Sterling Highway to Homer. It is a long trip, but I promise the views will be worth it!

Upon arrival, check into the Kenai Peninsula Suites. There you’ll find beautiful log cabins overlooking Kachemak Bay. That is easily the most beautiful place to stay on this 7-day Alaska itinerary.

Once you get settled in, head down to the Homer Spit. You’ll find endless seafood restaurants to choose from.

I’d head to Swell Taco where you can order your food and sit out on the deck overlooking the ocean. They have some of the best food in town, plus the stop will be quick. After, you’ll have some time for souvenir shopping if you’re up for it.

Day 4: Homer & Kachemak Bay

Today is the day of this one-week in Alaska itinerary for adventure!

Homer is widely known as the halibut fishing capital of the world. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, this is the place to do some fishing.

Half and full-day tours depart right from Homer Harbor. Book well in advance, since boats fill up months ahead of time.

If a full day out on the ocean doesn’t appeal to you, then you’re in luck!

Homer casually sits on the border of two of Alaska’s best bear-viewing regions: Lake Clark National Park and Katmai National Park. With dozens of tour operators offering half and full-day tours to these parks, Homer is one of the best departure points on the Kenai Peninsula for bear tours.

Of course, if you’d prefer to keep your feet firmly on the ground (without the presence of potentially dangerous wild animals around) you can also do some shopping in town.

The Alaska Starfish Co. is wonderful for souvenirs. Head to the Homer Brewing Company if the weather proves to be less than tolerable.

End your night with a dip in the hot tub back at the Kenai Peninsula Suites before changing into something comfortable for some good conversation with friends around the outdoor firepit (s’mores are practically required).

Day 5: Homer

If you would love to do both the fishing tour and the bear-viewing tour, then this is your extra day in Homer to do just that!

You also have the option of going kayaking in Kachemak Bay.

Another great idea is taking a seaplane tour up into the mountains (seriously, you won’t regret it).

Lastly, you might wanna do the Rainbow Tour over to the city of Seldovia on the other side of the bay.

If it’s the relaxation you’re after, then spend the morning scouring the beach at Land’s End Resort for sea glass and wildlife. Have some lunch and do some exploring on the Homer Spit for the afternoon.

You can’t leave Homer without stopping in the Salty Dawg Saloon for a drink. Make sure to add a dollar bill to the wall of seemingly endless currency collected over the years.

End your evening with a cookout back at your accommodation overlooking Kachemak Bay.

Day 6: Driving from Homer to Anchorage

For your last full day in Alaska, it’s time to start heading back towards Anchorage.

The drive is around 4-hours long, so you should be able to make it back before dark. You may even stop for pictures along the way.

You can stop in Whittier, a city that is only accessed via a very long underground tunnel, en route to seeing the iconic Prince William Sound.

It’s absolutely beautiful and definitely worth a visit. Just keep in mind that the tunnel is one-way. So you’ll need to wait for the tunnel to reopen for your direction which can take up to an hour on occasion.

Exploring Anchorage

Once you are back in Anchorage, head to the Alaska Native Heritage Center.

There you can learn about Alaskan culture. You get a chance to watch traditional dance performances and explore interactive exhibits, so there is something fun for people of all ages!

End your night by stopping at Fletcher’s on West 5th Avenue inside the Captain Cook Hotel for dinner.

I highly recommend the beef stroganoff and the oysters Rockefeller. As a dessert, have the chocolate peanut butter pie. Honestly, it’s the best way to end your 7-day Alaska itinerary.

If you want to keep things easy, book a room inside the Captain Cook Hotel. All you have to do is take the elevator upstairs after dinner.

However, the Lakefront Anchorage is my personal favorite hotel in Anchorage since it overlooks Lake Spenard. It also offers epic views of the float-planes taking off and landing!

Day 7: Anchorage & Return Home

On the last day of your week in Alaska, it’s time to say goodbye.

If you’re an early bird, then spend some time strolling through town in search of some last-minute Alaskan souvenirs. Once in a Blue Moose is a great spot for this.

Be sure to pick up one last beverage at the Alaska House of Coffee before heading to the airport.

If you find yourself with a little more time, head on over to Kincaid Park. Moose sightings there are common. There are plenty of trails that provide amazing views of Denali National Park and Mount Denali on a clear day.

Be sure to leave a little extra time to return your rental car and just like that, your Alaska 7-day itinerary from Anchorage has come to an end!

Alaska Itinerary 7-Days in Winter

For those who want to do the 7-day Alaska road trip in winter, I have created a separate itinerary.

Alaska gets very cold in winter, so it will be important to pack plenty of layers if you’ll be visiting between September and April.

This itinerary jumps around a bit more to make the most of Alaska in the winter months. Keep that in mind before choosing a winter itinerary. If rest and relaxation is more your style, be sure to go in summer.

This version of the Alaska itinerary starts in Fairbanks and ends in Anchorage. Keep that in mind when booking your flights. There is a bit more driving involved, but it does cover the best spots to see in Alaska in winter.

Day 1: Arrival in Fairbanks

Thanks to the numerous reality TV shows, we all think visiting Alaska in the winter is simply impossible. But I’m here to set the record straight.

Visiting Alaska in the winter isn’t only possible, but actually very simple and beautiful.

Local pilots are experts in flying in less-than-perfect weather. Flights are rarely canceled, so you can expect to arrive in Alaska with minimal delays at best.

For your first day in Fairbanks, pick up a rental car at the airport and check into Pike’s Waterfront Lodge. It offers some rustic lodging and fantastic food in its onsite restaurant.

From there, you can settle in for the night, depending on how you’re feeling after the long journey.

If you are up for it, you can head to the Museum of the North. There you’ll learn all about the natural history of Alaska.

Day 2: Fairbanks

Santa Clause Village & North Pole

Today is a perfect day to explore what this wonderful region has to offer in the winter months.

Start by visiting the Santa Clause Village in the nearby North Pole (one of the best Alaska day trip ideas).

The whole town is decorated with festive lights and cute decor. You can also take pictures with Santa Clause himself in December, shop in the boutiques, or even have a snowball fight. That is if the cold hasn’t made your fingers numb yet.

Chena Hot Springs

From there, it’s time to explore some of Fairbanks’ natural beauty.

Check out the Chena Hot Springs. There you can soak your muscles after a long travel day.

These thermal baths are nice and hot, not lukewarm like others that I’ve visited. They also provide excellent views of snow-capped mountains. Plus, it’s really fun to jump in the snow after your dip!

Northern Lights Tour

Once you get back to Fairbanks, it’s time to do the best thing there is to do in Alaska in the winter: a northern lights tour!

Whether you rent a car or not, please do yourself a favor and go with a trusted tour company instead of venturing out on your own.

It’s very easy to research the best spots for viewing the northern lights near Fairbanks. Murphy Dome Road and Cleary Summit are the most popular.

But you may not realize just how dangerous this activity is – without proper guidance.

Temperatures in Fairbanks during optimal aurora viewing hours average in the negative 20’s Fahrenheit.

You need a car that has an engine block heater, battery heater, and oil heater, as well as numerous safety resources. You need a tow rope and shovel in case you go off the road, food and water, a satellite phone, etc. Otherwise, this fun activity can go south extremely fast.

Trusted tour companies will be equipped with everything you’ll need for a safe and enjoyable experience. Plus, they’re experienced in driving on snow and ice-covered roads, so they’re less likely to end up going off-road.

To check if it’s a good night for a northern lights tour, you’ll want to check the Explore Fairbanks website. They report on the aurora activity.

Don’t worry, this one is very easy to read and can give you a simple explanation such as “good”, “great”, or “excellent”.

Regardless of what this site says, if it’s cloudy, then you’re unlikely to see anything. So, check the website and the weather snow and rain are a definite no-go. If both check out, book a tour!

Did you know that you can also see the Northern Lights in North Dakota?

Day 3: Fairbanks

On day 3 of your week in Alaska in Fairbanks, you’ll have a few different options for activities.

You can either book a tour with a reputable company for ice-fishing or snowmobiling.

Of course, you can also have a leisurely day exploring the town in search of unique souvenirs. The museum is also a great idea if you don’t end up doing it on your first day.

If you choose to go ice fishing, there are plenty of great companies to choose from. I really like AK River Tours since they also provide the opportunity to go at night. Then you have a better chance of seeing the northern lights.

As for snowmobiling, they do that too! There are plenty of great tour companies though and they do book up fast. So don’t fret if the tour you’re looking for is full for your dates.

Day 4: Fairbanks to Anchorage to Girdwood

Hopefully, you had a chance to see the northern lights and do some fun winter activities up in Fairbanks.

Now it’s time to head down to the Kenai Peninsula for some epic snow sports!

You have two options for going from Fairbanks to Anchorage: the first is the stunning Alaska Railroad (highly recommended if you can squeeze an extra day or two into your trip). But you can also take a short flight down to Anchorage.

Once you arrive in Anchorage, you’ll continue your journey down to Girdwood.

Stay at the iconic Alyeska Resort where you’ll find some of the best ski mountains in Alaska!

Sprinkled with glaciers in every direction, the Alyeska isn’t just one of the most luxurious places to stay in Alaska. It is also one of the best ski resorts in the 49th state.

Spend this day checking in and getting settled before taking the cable car up to the 7 Glaciers Restaurant. Enjoy for an award-winning meal with unbeatable views.

Pro Tip: Make a reservation for dinner as soon as you book your room! Advanced reservations provide guests with a free cable car ride!

End your evening with a dip in the saltwater pool and hot tub, both with stunning views of the Alyeska Mountains.

Day 5: Girdwood

It’s time to get out of those skis because you’re about to experience some of the best skiing and snowboarding in Alaska!

The Alyeska Resort offers something for everyone: from intermediate slopes to steep, black diamond cliffs.

You can book three- and four-hour tour packages if you want an introduction to the mountain before taking matters into your own hands.

Or you can even hire a private guide if you don’t feel comfortable navigating the trails without help.

Once you’ve had your fill of skiing and snowboarding, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy at the resort. The spa offers a range of treatments from massages to facials.

You can find several shops in the area, where you can pick up souvenirs for yourself or your friends back home. The Alpine Bakery is the best spot around for a sweet treat after your day on the mountain.

If a cozy campfire is something for you, head to the Girdwood Brewing Company. They have an outdoor fire for while you are enjoying some local brews. It will be cold, so be sure to dress in all your warmest gear!

End your night with dinner at one of the resort’s many restaurants and another dip in the heated pool to warm up.

Day 6: Seward

On day 6 of the 7-day Alaska itinerary, you’ll make the 2-hour drive down to Seward for some of the best scenery in Alaska.

Whether you choose to take the train or rent a car, this is one spot that you don’t want to skip!

When you arrive in Seward, head straight to Resurrection Bay. Here, you’ll have a good chance of spotting marine animals, including whales. Even in winter, you can see sea otters, seals, as well as bald eagles, puffins, and more!

Take a walk down the docks on the small boat harbor and be sure to take plenty of pictures of the surrounding glaciers.

If you’re up for a real adventure, you can even take a helicopter tour where you’ll get to land on one of the nearby glaciers!

If you love winter hiking, the Kenai Fjords National Park is open year-round and provides some excellent hiking trails for nature enthusiasts. Just be sure to dress very warm as snow, ice, and sub-freezing temperatures are probable.

Round off your day with dinner at Chinooks for some of the best clam chowder and oysters. Plus, there’s plenty of good company!

Day 7: Seward to Anchorage

On your final day, you’ll have the opportunity to explore downtown Seward. You can get in some last-minute shopping before heading back up to Anchorage.

It’s a beautiful drive along the Seward Highway, so be sure to keep an eye out for wildlife along the way!

Once you’re back in Anchorage, you can either stay overnight or catch a flight out.

If you do stay overnight, round off your 7-day Alaska itinerary with some live music at one of the many local bars. 49th State Brewing Co. is another personal favorite.

Be sure to leave some extra time if you need to return a rental car.

Is 7 Days Enough in Alaska?

7 days can certainly give you a taste of what Alaska has to offer. This itinerary covers most basic parts you’ll want to see in Alaska on a 7-day itinerary.

Keep in mind that Alaska is an enormous state with many national parks, wildlife, and adventures. You could easily fill weeks or even months of exploration.

In a week, you can explore some key highlights, such as Anchorage, Fairbanks, Seward, Girdwood, or Homer.

It is enough time to try exciting activities such as skiing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, and aurora hunting.

However, a longer stay would allow you to venture further into less-traveled regions. You will also have a better chance of spotting the northern lights (winter activity).

So to answer the question – yes, 7 days is enough for a memorable trip. But if you have more time, there’s always more to discover in this beautiful state.

How Many Days Are Enough for Alaska?

In my opinion, 10 days is the optimal amount of time to spend in Alaska.

But it also depends on what you want to experience. For a quick trip filled with key highlights and main tourist areas, 7 to 10 days is enough.

If you wish to dive deeper into this vast state, you may wish to consider a 2 to 3-week itinerary.

Remember, Alaska is a state that offers different experiences in different seasons.

So, choosing when to visit may also influence how long you’ll want to stay. Ultimately, the duration of your stay should align with your interests, budget, and travel style.

How Much Does This 1-Week Vacation in Alaska Cost?

The cost of a 1-week vacation in Alaska depends on your travel preferences. Overall, Alaska is an expensive destination.

If you’re traveling on a budget, you can expect to spend around $1,000 – $1,200 per person for a week. That includes budget accommodation, meals, transportation, and some cheap or free activities.

For a mid-range budget, you might spend between $2,000 – $3,000 per person. This includes comfortable accommodation, dining at restaurants, car rental, and a couple of guided tours or activities.

If you’re looking for a luxury experience, you could spend $4,000 and upwards per person. This would include staying at high-end hotels or lodges, dining at the best restaurants, private tours, and premium experiences like helicopter tours or high-end fishing charters.

Of course, if you’ll be sharing a room with someone, this doesn’t automatically double the budget per person since the cost of the accommodation won’t change.

These estimates also don’t include airfare to Alaska. That will be depending on where you’re flying from and when you book your tickets.

Keep in mind that costs can also vary depending on the season. Summer is the peak tourist season, so it will be the most expensive.

What is the Best Month to See Alaska?

The best months to see Alaska are July in the summer and December in the winter.

The summer months of June, July, and August are the warmest and have the longest days. That is a popular time for tourists since these months are ideal for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.

If you’re hoping to see the northern lights, however, the darker winter months from late September to early April are your best bet.

For winter sports enthusiasts, February and March typically offer the best snow conditions. December is fantastic for holiday markets, skiing, and northern lights spotting!

So in essence, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question.

What are the Cheapest Months to Go to Alaska for 7 Days?

The cheapest months to go to Alaska are typically during the shoulder seasons, in May and September.

Then you can often find lower prices for flights, accommodations, and tours.

Keep in mind that while some services and attractions may still be available, others may be closed or operate on reduced schedules.

The weather can still be pleasant during these months. But it is pretty unpredictable, so it’s important to keep a flexible schedule with the anticipation of tours getting canceled due to poor weather.

Since snow is common in Alaska during these months as well, road conditions may be bad. Of course, you can also do this itinerary via the Alaska Railroad, if you aren’t familiar with driving in winter conditions.

Do I Need a Car Rental for the Alaska 7-Day Itinerary?

For the most part, you will need a rental car during your 7-day Alaska itinerary.

Public transportation in Alaska is limited, so having your own rental car is ideal. It allows you to explore the state on your own schedule and visit some of its more remote destinations.

It also gives you the freedom to go at your own pace and stop along the way for photo opportunities.

Plus, with so much breathtaking scenery on offer, a scenic road trip can be one of the highlights of your vacation!

If you aren’t comfortable driving in a new place, then the Alaska Railroad can be a great option. Just remember that a train won’t drop you off in front of your hotel. So you’ll need to supplement with taxis or ride-shares for the smaller journeys.

Is Alaska Safe?

Alaska is generally pretty safe.

But especially if you’re into the whole nature and adventure thing, it’s got its own set of risks.

Wildlife, weather, and remote locations can be challenging. Accidents often involve outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, or boating.

Alaska’s wilderness is stunning but can be unforgiving if you’re not prepared. Weather can change quickly, and it’s easy to get lost or encounter wildlife.

When it comes to crime, Alaska does have higher rates compared to the U.S. average. Property crime is more common than violent crime, but it’s always a good idea to be cautious and aware of your surroundings.

Do you need travel insurance in Alaska? Yes, travel insurance in Alaska is highly recommended. Unsafe roads, winter sports accidents, and food poisoning are only a few examples of when travel insurance could come in handy. EKTA offers worldwide travel insurance with 24/7 service and no hidden fees or restrictions.

What to Pack for 7 Days in Alaska Itinerary

1. Warm Clothes: Layers are your best friend.
2. Waterproof Boots: You’ll thank yourself later.
3. Snacks: Granola bars or trail mix work great.
4. Sunscreen: Yep, even in Alaska.
5. A Good Camera: For those Insta-worthy shots.
6. Bug Spray: Those mosquitoes don’t play.
7. First-Aid Kit: Basic stuff like band-aids and antiseptic.
8. Bear Spray. Pretty self-explanatory.
9. Reusable Water Bottle: Gotta stay hydrated.
10. Binoculars: For wildlife spotting and scenic views.

CONCLUSION: 7-Day Alaska Itinerary

A 7-day Alaska itinerary can provide a fantastic introduction to the state’s remarkable landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor activities.

From fishing in the bountiful waters of Homer to hiking through the Kenai Fjords National Park, every day offers a new adventure that will create lasting memories.

Of course, Alaska has a lot more to offer than we could fit into this one-week itinerary. Other famous places, like the St. Elias National Park, would need some more time to explore.

Lastly, you can also opt to go on an Alaska Cruise if a self-drive itinerary is not the best fit for you.

If you can’t get enough of winter destinations just yet, make sure to check out my favorite Christmas weekend getaways.