Exploring Alaska often means more than just planning adventures — it means knowing where to eat, stay and recharge along the way, too.
Streamline your Alaska getaway by organizing iconic activities and close-by dining together. Whether you're after a meal with a view, authentic Alaska fare or a standout craft beer selection, we’ve got you covered.
Here are four Alaska dining and adventure pairings, from Seward to Denali National Park, for full-day experiences that are as exciting as they are delicious.
A meal with a view takes on a different meaning in Kenai Fjords National Park. The Glacier Dinner Cruise features a delicious multi-course dinner and an onboard bar, plus the chance to try a signature glacierita made with ice collected straight from a glacier. Departing from Seward at 3 p.m., this six-hour cruise offers an unhurried evening on the water while letting you skip the dinnertime crowds on land.
During the cruise, you’ll get up close to a towering tidewater glacier, spot wildlife and hear the captain share insights about Kenai Fjords National Park. Common wildlife sightings include whales, sea lions, puffins, sea otters and more.
TIP: If you want to stretch your legs before the cruise, check out the one-mile Two Lakes Park Loop in downtown Seward, a lovely forest walk with a waterfall at the southern end.
Visiting the Seward area? Don’t miss Exit Glacier, the only part of Kenai Fjords National Park accessible by road. It’s a must-see stop that offers hikes for a range of abilities, all with rewarding glacier views.
Hikers can choose from three main routes:
On your way back to town, refuel at Resurrection Roadhouse. The restaurant serves Alaska favorites, pizza and pub fare, along with an impressive list of craft beers. Mountain views add to its reputation as one of Seward’s standout dining spots, and on a sunny day, the patio is top-notch.
TIP: Get an early start, or recover post-hike, by staying at Seward Windsong Lodge, just a 15-minute drive from the Exit Glacier trailhead.
Seeing Alaska is one thing, but seeing it from above offers a deeper understanding of just how spectacular this place is. Talkeetna serves as a gateway to flightseeing tours over Denali National Park, with dramatic views of North America’s tallest mountain, Denali (also known as Mount McKinley). Choose from expert operators like K2 Aviation or Talkeetna Air Taxi. Some tours also include an optional glacier landing on the iconic Ruth Glacier, surrounded by Alaska Range peaks.
Big adventures work up a big appetite. That’s where Homestead Kitchen comes in. This unpretentious downtown Talkeetna restaurant has quickly become a local favorite thanks to its super-fresh ingredients, hearty Alaska dishes and quaint outdoor patio. Standouts include the Homestead Pie made with ground elk and vegetables, a classic halibut sandwich and crowd-favorite shareables like Nordic meatballs or the Kenai dip. A lineup of cocktails, mocktails and other bar offerings round out the menu.
TIP: Alaska residents can use promo code TACAK10 to save 10% on flightseeing tours with K2 Aviation.
You don’t need to visit during the Iditarod to experience Alaska’s sled dog culture. A stop at Husky Homestead offers an up-close look at how sled dogs train, live and prepare for racing. Owned by legendary musher Jeff King, the homestead is located about eight miles south of Denali National Park and invites visitors to meet world-class sled dogs and puppies while learning about a lifestyle shaped by years of Alaskan adventures.
Afterward, head to nearby Prey Pub & Eatery for dinner off the beaten path. With its rustic atmosphere and scenic views, it’s an ideal spot to unwind with warm food and a cold beer — especially after a day outdoors. The menu features pub classics, from chicken wings and hush puppies to two-hander sandwiches made to satisfy any appetite.
TIP: Book your stay at Denali Cabins, home to Prey, for a cozy base camp just minutes from Denali National Park.
There’s plenty more to see, eat and explore across Alaska. Start your adventure and create your own perfect pairings.
About the Author
Based in Anchorage, Alaska, Andrea Burtzel is an outdoor advocate who loves inspiring others to get outside through activities like rock climbing, mountain biking and trail running. When she’s not out exploring, she’s working toward a degree in Journalism and Public Communications at the University of Alaska Anchorage. Follow her on Instagram at @andreainalaska or connect with her professionally at andreaburtzel.com.
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