Alaska

Alaska is a destination defined by its massive scale and untamed wilderness, offering families a chance to step away from urban life and into landscapes that feel prehistoric. Geographically, it is the largest state in the US, encompassing vast tundra, towering mountain ranges like the Alaska Range (home to Denali), and a jagged coastline dotted with glaciers. For families, the sheer size of the landscape is a lesson in nature's power. Summers bring the phenomenon of the Midnight Sun, providing nearly 24 hours of daylight in some areas, which gives parents plenty of flexibility when planning itineraries that might otherwise feel rushed.

Wildlife viewing is the primary draw for many visitors with children. In Denali National Park, bus tours offer safe opportunities to spot the 'Big Five': moose, caribou, Dall sheep, wolves, and grizzly bears. On the coast, day cruises from Seward or Whittier take families into the Kenai Fjords, where children can see otters floating on their backs, puffins nesting on cliffs, and orcas hunting in pods. Unlike zoos, these encounters happen in the wild, providing a profound educational experience about ecosystems and conservation. The Alaska SeaLife Center in Seward allows for closer looks at marine life and explains local rehabilitation efforts.

Cultural experiences in Alaska are rich and varied. In scenery-heavy towns like Ketchikan and Sitka, families can explore the heritage of the Tlingit and Haida peoples through totem pole parks and traditional dance performances. The Alaska Native Heritage Center in Anchorage is an excellent stop for kids to walk through reconstructed village sites and listen to indigenous storytellers. Gold Rush history also captures the imagination; families can pan for gold in creeks near Fairbanks or ride the narrow-gauge scenic railway in Skagway, retracing the steps of prospectors from 1898.

Practicality is key in this rugged region. The most popular way for families to visit is via cruise ship along the Inside Passage, which simplifies logistics by combining transport, lodging, and dining. However, renting an RV and driving the mesmerizing Seward Highway offers more freedom to stop at playgrounds and hiking trails. While summer temperatures can reach a comfortable 20°C (68°F), weather changes rapidly, so packing layers and waterproof gear is essential. Dining is casual and hearty, with fresh halibut and salmon often on the menu, though kid-friendly staples like reindeer sausage hot dogs are widely available.