Alaska FAQs

Find out all you need to know about visiting Alaska.

When is the best time to visit Alaska?

The best time to visit Alaska is from May to September for the warmest weather, longer days including the midnight sun in the north and the best opportunities to watch wildlife including bears and whales. This is also the busiest season for cultural events. The best time to view the Northern Lights is August to April, particularly November to February, and this is also the best time to do snow activities.

What is the official language of Alaska?

English is widely spoken in Alaska. A range of native American languages are spoken within communities.

How do I manage my travel money in Alaska?

The official currency of the USA is the United States dollar (USD). Cash, credit, and debit cards are widely accepted.

What places combine well with Alaska?

Alaska is easily combined with the Yukon, especially from Skagway and along the Top of the World Highway from Tetlin Junction to Dawson City. Alaska can also be combined with the Pacific Northwest and British Columbia on cruises up from these states through the Inside Passage.

What are the main cultural events in Alaska?

Alaska has a busy events calendar, particularly in the summer months. The biggest city Anchorage holds the Summer Solstice Festival in June and the Bear Paw Festival in July with parades and races. In winter, races such as the Tesoro Iron Dog Snowmobile Race and the Tour of Anchorage Nordic are popular.

Fairbanks also has a busy events schedule with the Midnight Sun Festival in June, Fairbanks Summer Arts Festival and Golden Days in July, a celebration of the Gold Rush with races, parades and food. The city holds the month-long World Ice Art Championships in March.

The Alaskan capital Juneau holds Alaska Folk Festival in April, a jazz festival and maritime festival in May, and Gold Rush Days, a celebration of the region’s mining heritage in June. Skagway holds the road relay race Klondike Trail of ’98 in September, while nearby Haines hosts the Chilkat International Bike Relay in June to Haines Junction in the Yukon. Ketchikan holds the King Salmon Derby in May/June, an annual competition with prizes for the largest fish, and the Blueberry Arts Festival in August.