Alaska is a state with a myriad of cheap vacation options for either day trips or overnight and weekend stays. With such a vast amount of land it is hard to know where to begin when looking for vacation ideas, so here are a few cheap spots that are certainly worth checking out:
The Start of the Iditarod
For most of its length the “Last Great Race” covers miles of Alaska’s most barren land, but find yourself in Anchorage on the day that the mushers and dogs leave and you will find yourself in a carnival like atmosphere. Spectators pack into the city in their thousands, and crowds can be five to ten deep against the barricades to watch the ceremonial start. The atmosphere is full of revelry and the smell or burgers and hot dogs fills the air as tailgaters cook up a storm in the 20 degree weather (on a good year). If you have a spare $50,000 you can buy your way into the race, but you can be part of the fun and festivities for free by visiting Anchorage at the right time of year.
Explore Native American Culture
Some of the best cheap vacations are the ones that involve a historical aspect, and in Alaska that means looking at the history of some of the state’s first settlers. The town of Ketchikan appeals to many as a quaint and unspoiled fishing village, the type of which is rare in the modern world. The town’s claim to fame however is the Totem Heritage Center which boasts an array of 19th Century totems collected from abandoned native villages. The exhibits are so highly thought of that the center is listed on the National Historic register.
Glacial Tours
Alaska can boast being 100 times more covered with ice than it is settled by humans and as glaciers are such a unique and daunting physical environment, one of the state’s many tours is a highly recommended experience. For the physically fit, a hiking style land tour will allow you to walk on these ice formations that have been around for millennia. If you want a more relaxing experience you can take a helicopter or boat trip to see the stunning glacial views from a different perspective altogether. Tours are one of the top ten things to do in Alaska and make for an exciting and challenging vacation experience.
Kayak Alaska
It may be old news, but Alaska really does offer some of the best kayaking opportunities in the entire world. No matter what your level there is something on offer. Kayak pros can take to the waterways and explore the states rugged coastline on their own, while beginners can learn from some of the best teachers and guides in the business. The scenery in Alaska is nothing short of breathtaking, and as nature is free it can lead to one of the more memorable cheap vacations you will ever have.
Photo via MikeJonesPhoto
