7-Day Alaska Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
Planning your first trip to Alaska? You're in for something special. Alaska is vast, wild, and packed with more bucket-list experiences than you can fit into one visit. That's why having a solid itinerary matters—especially if this is your first time in the Last Frontier.
Below is a 7-day Alaska itinerary designed specifically for first-time visitors. This route balances iconic must-see experiences with enough flexibility to adjust based on weather, interests, and energy levels. Whether you're chasing glaciers, wildlife, or the Northern Lights, this itinerary has you covered.
🗺️ Why This 7-Day Alaska Itinerary Works
Most first-time visitors to Alaska land in Anchorage, which makes it the perfect starting point. From there, you have access to some of the state's most incredible experiences within a few hours' drive or flight.
This itinerary focuses on Southcentral Alaska—the region stretching from Anchorage to Seward, Talkeetna, and beyond. It's accessible, diverse, and offers everything from massive glaciers to prime wildlife viewing to authentic Alaska culture.
If you're traveling between May and September, this itinerary will work perfectly. If you're visiting during winter, we'll note where you can swap in seasonal alternatives like Northern Lights tours and winter adventures.
What This 7-Day Itinerary Includes
Glacier experiences (up close and from the air)
Wildlife viewing (bears, moose, whales, eagles)
Scenic drives through Alaska's most stunning landscapes
Boat tours on Prince William Sound
Flightseeing over Denali and the Alaska Range
Local culture and authentic Alaska experiences
Flexible options for different travel styles
Let's break it down day by day.
Day 1: Arrive in Anchorage + Get Your Bearings
Morning/Afternoon
Touch down at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport and pick up your rental car. Most visitors rent a vehicle for the week—it gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Check into your hotel and take a couple of hours to settle in. If you arrive early enough, grab lunch at one of Anchorage's great local spots. (Check out Moose's Tooth Pub & Pizzeria or Snow City Cafe for classic Alaska fare.)
Afternoon
Head to the Anchorage Museum to get oriented. This is one of the best museums in the state, with exhibits on Alaska Native cultures, state history, and Arctic wildlife. It's a great way to ease into your trip.
If you'd rather skip the museum, take a walk along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail—an 11-mile paved path that hugs the coastline with views of the Chugach Mountains and Cook Inlet. You might even spot beluga whales or moose.
Evening
Wander downtown Anchorage. The area around 4th and 5th Avenues has shops, breweries, and restaurants. Grab dinner and rest up—you've got a big week ahead.
Pro Tip
If you're visiting in winter, swap the coastal trail for a visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center on your way into town. It's a great introduction to Alaska's animals.
Day 2: Anchorage to Seward + Kenai Fjords National Park
Morning
This is one of the most scenic drives in Alaska. Head south on the Seward Highway, which runs along Turnagain Arm with mountains on one side and ocean on the other. The drive takes about 2.5 hours, but plan for 3–4 with stops.
Must-see stops along the way:
Beluga Point – Watch for beluga whales (best in summer)
Bird Point – Great views and photo ops
Portage Glacier turnoff – Optional side trip to see glaciers up close
Afternoon
Arrive in Seward and board a Kenai Fjords National Park boat tour. These tours run from late May through early September and take you deep into the fjords where glaciers meet the sea.
You'll see:
Massive tidewater glaciers calving into the ocean
Sea otters, harbor seals, and sea lions
Bald eagles soaring overhead
Puffins and other seabirds
Humpback whales (common in summer)
Tours range from 4 to 8 hours. The longer tours go deeper into the park and increase your chances of seeing wildlife.
→ If boat tours aren't your thing or you're visiting in winter, consider a dog sledding experience or a visit to the Alaska SeaLife Center instead.
Evening
Grab dinner in Seward—Ray's Waterfront is a local favorite. Spend the night in Seward or drive back to Anchorage depending on your schedule.
Pro Tip
Book your Kenai Fjords tour in advance, especially if traveling in July or August. Tours fill up fast.
Day 3: Seward to Talkeetna (or Flightseeing from Anchorage)
Morning
If you stayed in Seward, start driving toward Talkeetna. The drive takes about 4 hours, but it's another stunning route through mountains, forests, and valleys.
Alternatively, if you stayed in Anchorage, you can take a flightseeing tour directly from Anchorage before heading to Talkeetna. These tours fly you over glaciers, mountains, and sometimes even land on a glacier for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
→ Check out our K2 Aviation Flightseeing Tours for options.
Afternoon
Arrive in Talkeetna, a quirky mountain town that feels like stepping back in time. Talkeetna is the jumping-off point for Denali climbing expeditions and offers incredible views of North America's tallest peak (when the weather cooperates).
Walk around downtown—it's small, charming, and easy to explore on foot. Grab lunch at Talkeetna Roadhouse, famous for its homemade pies.
If you didn't do a flightseeing tour earlier, Talkeetna is the best place in Alaska to do one. Tours from Talkeetna fly directly into the Alaska Range, circling Denali and landing on glaciers. It's unforgettable.
Evening
Settle into your Talkeetna accommodations. Many visitors stay at the Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge, which has panoramic views of Denali from the deck (on clear days).
Enjoy a quiet evening and soak in the mountain atmosphere.
Pro Tip
Denali is often shrouded in clouds. Only about 30% of visitors actually see the full mountain. If you get a clear day, drop everything and get in the air or find a viewpoint—it's that rare.
Day 4: Talkeetna to Denali National Park
Morning
Drive north from Talkeetna to Denali National Park. The drive takes about 2.5–3 hours along the Parks Highway, which offers big mountain views the entire way.
Arrive at the park entrance and check into your lodge or campground. Denali has limited accommodations inside the park, so many visitors stay just outside the entrance in the "Glitter Gulch" area.
Afternoon
Head to the Denali Visitor Center to get oriented. Watch the introductory film, browse exhibits, and talk to rangers about current wildlife sightings.
If you have time, take a short hike on one of the trails near the entrance, like the Horseshoe Lake Trail (easy, 2 miles round trip) or the Mount Healy Overlook Trail (moderate, 5 miles round trip with incredible views).
Evening
Enjoy dinner at your lodge or one of the nearby restaurants. If you're visiting in summer, the sun won't set until late, giving you extra time to explore or relax.
Winter Option
If you're visiting in winter, Denali is quieter but still stunning. You can book a dog sledding tour with a local musher or take a snowmobile adventure through the backcountry.
→ Explore our Winter Tours for seasonal options.
Day 5: Denali National Park – Full Day of Exploration
Morning
This is the day you've been waiting for. Book a Denali bus tour to explore deep into the park. Private vehicles are not allowed past Mile 15, so the only way to see the heart of Denali is via park buses or tour buses.
Tour options include:
Tundra Wilderness Tour – 7–8 hours, goes to Mile 53
Denali Natural History Tour – 4–5 hours, goes to Mile 17
Kantishna Experience – Full-day tour to the end of the park road
The longer tours give you the best chance of seeing wildlife. Denali is home to grizzly bears, caribou, Dall sheep, moose, and wolves. Bring binoculars, layers, and snacks.
Afternoon
Your bus tour will take up most of the day. Guides stop frequently for wildlife sightings and photo opportunities. The landscape changes dramatically as you go deeper into the park—from forests to tundra to massive river valleys.
On a clear day, you'll see Denali from multiple vantage points along the road.
Evening
Return to your lodge tired but exhilarated. Share stories with other travelers over dinner and get ready for the drive back to Anchorage tomorrow.
Pro Tip
Book your Denali bus tour well in advance—especially if traveling in June, July, or August. Tours can sell out weeks ahead.
Day 6: Denali to Anchorage + Free Afternoon
Morning
Drive back to Anchorage from Denali. The drive takes about 4–5 hours, depending on traffic and stops.
If you're not in a rush, stop at Wasilla for lunch. This is the hometown of the Iditarod, and you can visit the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race Headquarters to learn about Alaska's most famous race and meet sled dogs.
Afternoon
Arrive back in Anchorage with time to explore what you might have missed on Day 1.
Options include:
Alaska Native Heritage Center – Learn about Alaska's indigenous cultures
Earthquake Park – Scenic views with a bit of history
Flattop Mountain Trail – Popular hike with panoramic views of Anchorage
Shopping for souvenirs downtown
If you're visiting in winter, consider booking an evening Northern Lights tour for your last night in Alaska. Anchorage isn't as reliable as Fairbanks for aurora viewing, but guides know where to go when conditions are right.
→ Book a Greatland Northern Lights Tour
Evening
Celebrate your last night in Alaska with a nice dinner. Anchorage has excellent seafood—try fresh halibut, king crab, or Copper River salmon at one of the downtown restaurants.
Day 7: Departure Day + Optional Morning Adventures
Morning
Depending on your flight time, you might have a few hours to squeeze in one last adventure.
Quick morning options:
Breakfast at Snow City Cafe – Get there early to avoid the line
Lake Hood Seaplane Base – Watch floatplanes take off and land (busiest seaplane base in the world)
Quick hike on the Coastal Trail if weather permits
If you have more time before your flight, consider a short trip to the nearby Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center or Girdwood for a final taste of Alaska scenery.
Afternoon
Head to the airport, return your rental car, and catch your flight home.
As you fly out, look out the window—on clear days, you'll see mountains, glaciers, and coastline stretching for hundreds of miles. It's the perfect send-off.
What to Pack for Your 7-Day Alaska Trip
Summer (May–September)
Layered clothing (mornings and evenings can be cool)
Rain jacket (Alaska weather is unpredictable)
Comfortable hiking boots or shoes
Sunglasses and sunscreen
Binoculars for wildlife viewing
Insect repellent (mosquitoes in June/July)
Camera with extra batteries
Winter (October–April)
Heavy insulated jacket
Thermal layers (top and bottom)
Warm boots with good traction
Gloves, hat, scarf
Hand warmers
Sunglasses (snow glare is intense)
For a complete packing guide, check out our Alaska Travel FAQ.
How Much Does a 7-Day Alaska Trip Cost?
Costs vary widely depending on your travel style, but here's a rough breakdown for a mid-range trip:
Flights to Anchorage: $300–$800 (depending on departure city)
Rental car for 7 days: $400–$700
Accommodations: $150–$250/night = $1,050–$1,750 total
Food: $50–$100/day = $350–$700 total
Tours and activities: $800–$1,500 (boat tours, flightseeing, Denali bus)
Gas: $150–$250
Total estimated cost per person: $3,000–$5,000
Traveling in shoulder season (May or September) can save you 20–30% on accommodations and tours.
Best Time to Follow This 7-Day Itinerary
Summer (June–August)
Pros: Warmest weather, longest days, all tours operating
Cons: Highest prices, most crowds, mosquitoes
Shoulder Season (May + September)
Pros: Lower prices, fewer crowds, beautiful landscapes
Cons: Some tours may not be running, cooler weather
Winter (October–April)
This itinerary needs significant adjustments for winter travel. You'd skip Kenai Fjords boat tours and Denali bus tours, and instead focus on:
Winter flightseeing
Dog sledding
Ice climbing
Snowmobiling
→ See our full selection of Winter Tours
Should You Book Tours in Advance?
Yes—especially for these activities:
Kenai Fjords boat tours
Denali bus tours
Flightseeing (from Talkeetna or Anchorage)
Northern Lights tours (in winter)
Popular tours sell out weeks or even months in advance during peak summer season. Booking early also gives you more flexibility with timing.
That said, some experiences—like short hikes, museum visits, and scenic drives—don't require advance planning.
→ Browse all available Alaska Tours
Can You Adjust This Itinerary?
Absolutely. Alaska is all about flexibility. Here are a few ways to customize this route:
Add More Time
If you have 10–14 days, consider adding:
Homer – The "Halibut Fishing Capital of the World"
Valdez – Stunning glaciers and kayaking
Fairbanks – Best place for Northern Lights viewing
Focus on Wildlife
Swap a day in Denali for a bear viewing tour in Katmai or Lake Clark National Park. These fly-in experiences are unforgettable and offer close encounters with coastal brown bears.
Go Deeper into Adventure
Add glacier hiking, ice climbing, kayaking, or multi-day backcountry camping. Alaska has endless options for outdoor enthusiasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 7 days enough for Alaska?
Seven days gives you a solid introduction to Alaska's highlights. You won't see everything, but you'll experience glaciers, wildlife, national parks, and authentic Alaska culture. If you can extend to 10–14 days, even better.
Do I need a 4WD vehicle?
Not for this itinerary. All the roads (Seward Highway, Parks Highway) are paved and accessible with a standard rental car. If you plan to explore remote areas or go off-road, 4WD is helpful.
Will I see the Northern Lights in summer?
No. The Northern Lights require darkness, and Alaska has nearly 24-hour daylight in June and July. For aurora viewing, visit between September and April.
→ Read our full Northern Lights Guide
What if the weather is bad?
Alaska weather is famously unpredictable. Build flexibility into your schedule. If a flightseeing tour gets canceled due to weather, you'll have backup options. Most tour operators will reschedule or refund if conditions aren't safe.
Can I do this trip without a car?
It's harder but possible. You'd need to book transportation through tour operators or use the Alaska Railroad, which connects Anchorage, Talkeetna, and Denali. Having a rental car gives you much more freedom.
Final Thoughts: Making the Most of Your First Alaska Trip
Alaska is unlike anywhere else on Earth. The landscapes are bigger, the wildlife is wilder, and the experiences are more memorable than you can imagine before you arrive.
This 7-day itinerary gives you a taste of what makes Alaska special—glaciers, mountains, wildlife, and authentic frontier culture. Whether you're standing on a glacier, watching a grizzly bear from a park bus, or simply driving through valleys surrounded by peaks, you'll understand why people fall in love with this place.
A few last tips:
Stay flexible—weather can change plans
Bring layers—Alaska weather shifts quickly
Book key tours in advance
Don't overschedule—leave room to breathe and explore
Talk to locals—Alaskans love sharing their favorite spots
If you're ready to start booking, explore our full collection of Alaska tours and adventures. We partner with the best local operators to bring you authentic, high-quality experiences across the state.
Welcome to Alaska. You're going to love it here.
→ Start planning: Browse All Alaska Tours
→ Need help deciding? Contact Us or check our FAQ