If I had to sum up Alaska in one word, it would be grandiose. I’ve seen my fair share of dramatic, mountain-packed landscapes, but nothing compares to the sheer, staggering beauty of Alaska. It’s truly other-worldly. And while plenty of people swear the best way to see the Last Frontier is by cruise (I, for one, am not a cruise girl), I’d argue the real magic happens on a scenic road trip.
The thing about Alaska? It’s big. Like, really big. Deciding where to begin is half the battle. Luckily, my cousin’s wedding (2025 is shaping up to be the year of destination weddings) gave us a built-in reason to focus on the Kenai Peninsula. I ended up loving this part of the state because it’s the perfect mix of wide-open landscapes and charming little coastal towns. I’d highly recommend it to anyone who wants to see a lot without feeling lost in the middle of nowhere.
If you’re wondering how to split your time, here’s what I’d recommend: two nights in Girdwood, three in Seward, two in Homer, and one in Soldotna. We only stopped in Cooper Landing for lunch, but it’s worth considering an overnight there too. I don’t recommend spending the night in Anchorage – an afternoon will do just fine.
Summer Weather in the Kenai Peninsula, AK
We visited Alaska in early August, and the timing couldn’t have been better. The first four days were pure magic ~sunny and 75~ though nights definitely called for a sweater and light jacket. The back half of the trip was moodier, with scattered rain and highs in the 60s. Thus proving the golden rule of Alaska: pack layers and be ready for anything. Oh, and don’t forget your sunglasses.
During summer, the sun lingers for nearly 23 hours a day. It takes some getting used to, but thankfully, every place we stayed had blackout curtains. Even so, there’s nothing quite like climbing into bed at 10:30 P.M. when it still looks like midday outside.
1. Girdwood
Where to Stay in Girdwood, AK
The Alyeska
Alyeska might be famous for its ski slopes, but don’t write it off once the snow melts. Summer here has its own magic, with hiking, spa days, and plenty to explore right outside the resort (more on that below). Bonus: it’s only 45 minutes from Anchorage airport, making it an easy jumping-off point for your Alaska adventure. The property itself shows its age, but the Nordic Spa? Worth. Every. Penny.
Things to Do in Girdwood, AK
Spa Day at Alyeska’s Nordic Spa
What drew me to Girdwood in the first place was Alyeska’s Nordic Spa, and I’m so glad it did. The space is brand new, beautifully designed, and worth planning your trip around. We kicked things off with a couples massage, then spent hours rotating through the hydrotherapy circuit: steaming hot pools, icy plunges, saunas, and quiet lounging areas that make it almost impossible to leave.
Tram to Mountaintop
After settling in, make your way to the tram ticket counter and buy a round-trip pass to the top of Mt. Alyeska. In just a few minutes, you’ll be 2,300 feet up, taking in sweeping views of the Turnagain Arm, seven striking “hanging” glaciers, and the endless peaks of the Chugach Mountains. The best part? There’s a bar at the top, so you can enjoy it all with a cold beer in hand.
Cinnamon Roll at The Bake Shop
I take pastries very seriously, which is why it was borderline tragic that The Bake Shop was closed the two days we were in town. Their legendary cinnamon rolls and sourdough bread draw a crowd, and missing them still stings. If you go, please send me a full report (and maybe a photo, so I can live vicariously).
Hit the Hiking Trails
One of the best parts about staying at Alyeska? The hiking trails start right outside your door. From mellow strolls to heart-pumping climbs, there’s something for every energy level. Whichever route you choose, the payoff is the same: sweeping views that make each step worth it.
Sushi at Sakura
For dinner, we followed our seafood cravings straight to Sakura, Alyeska’s in-house sushi spot. We grabbed seats at the counter and put our trust in the chef, and man, did he deliver.
2. Seward
Where to Stay in Seward, AK
Harbour 360 Hotel
Location, location, location. While the hotel itself didn’t blow me away, the location can’t be beat. My biggest tip: call ahead to book a room with a waterfront view.
Things to Do in Seward, AK
Lunch at Tidewater Taphouse
We loved Tidewater Taphouse so much we went back two days in a row. The beer list is stacked (as you’d expect), but the food was the real standout: fresh, flavorful, and way better than your typical taphouse fare. The Fish-Witch might be one of the best sandwiches I’ve ever had, and the poke was just as memorable.
Kayaking at Bear Glacier Lagoon
If you’re going to splurge on one big excursion in Alaska, let it be kayaking Bear Glacier Lagoon in Kenai Fjords National Park. You’ll paddle past towering icebergs, glide through turquoise water, and experience a kind of stillness that’s hard to put into words. It’s unforgettable, and absolutely worth building into your trip.
Beer at Yukon Bar
The divey, Alaskan bar you’ve been looking for.
Resurrect Art Coffee Shop
Housed in a century-old church, Resurrect Art Coffee House is equal parts café, gallery, and community hub. Grab a latte and settle in by the tall, stained-glass windows, surrounded by local art and a steady stream of regulars.
Dinner at The Cookery
Outside of Alaskan King Crab (because nothing competes with that), our best meal of the trip was at The Cookery. The space has a modern, farm-to-table feel that stood out from everywhere else we ate in Alaska. We ordered oysters, mushroom toast (non-negotiable), pan-seared halibut, and shrimp and grits; all SO GOOD. Even with an hour-long wait, it was a meal we’d happily repeat.
Breakfast Sandwich at Porthole Food Truck
Skip the complimentary hotel breakfast at Harbor 360 and head one minute down the road to the Porthole food truck. Their breakfast sandwiches are stacked, delicious, and exactly the fuel you’ll want before a day on the water.
3. Homer
Where to Stay in Homer, AK
Lakeshore Lodging
We didn’t spend the night in Homer, but in retrospect, I wish we did. Lakeshore Lodging appears to have several great options, and what really caught my eye were the waterfront lodges perched at the end of the Homer Spit.
Things to Do in Homer, AK
Explore the Homer Spit
Jutting 4.5 miles into Kachemak Bay, Homer Spit blends small-town charm with picturesque Alaska scenery. Fishing boats, art shops, and seafood spots line the waterfront, and a flat walking path makes it easy to explore at your own pace.
Alaskan King Crab Legs at Captain Pattie’s
We sampled Alaskan king crab in a few different places, but Captain Pattie’s came out on top. No notes.
Beer at Salty Dawg Saloon
The Salty Dawg Saloon is basically the postcard of Homer Spit. Housed in an old log cabin turned watering hole, the walls are covered in dollar bills, and the beer comes icy cold. It’s kitschy in the best way, equal parts dive bar and local landmark, and you kind of can’t say you’ve been to Homer without ducking in for at least one drink.
Visit Seldovia by Boat
Had we stayed the night in Homer, I would’ve booked the Rainbow Tours cruise to Seldovia. The 7-hour trip crosses Kachemak Bay with chances to spot sea otters, puffins, and even orcas (August is prime time). It also includes a two-hour stop in the historic village of Seldovia, where you’ll find a colorful harbor, wooden boardwalks, and tucked-away cafés and galleries.
4. Cooper Landing
Where to Stay in Cooper Landing, AK
Kenai Princess Lodge
Set on a bluff above the Kenai River, the Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge strikes a balance between comfort and adventure. The bungalow-style rooms come with wood-burning stoves and private porches, while the main lodge has a deck perfect for sunrise coffee or evening drinks. We didn’t stay overnight (just stopped for lunch), but based on what we saw, it feels like a spot worth booking.
With on-site dining and easy access to fishing, rafting, and trails, it’s an ideal base for exploring the Kenai without giving up the cozy touches.
5. Soldotna
Where to Stay in Soldotna, AK
Cusack’s on the Kenai
Located on the banks of the Kenai River, Cusack’s feels like the Alaska you came for: towering spruce, river views, and a rustic wooden lodge that makes the perfect basecamp. With seven bedrooms that can sleep up to 18 guests, it’s ideal for larger groups who want to stay together without compromising comfort.
Between salmon fishing, bear viewing, rafting, and simply lounging on the deck with a glass of wine, the Cusack sisters make sure every stay is tailored to your idea of an Alaskan adventure.
Things to Do in Soldotna, AK
Salmon Fishing
The Kenai River is famous for its salmon, and Soldotna is the place to try your luck. Guided charters make it easy to get on the water, but we kept it simple and borrowed gear from my cousin and her wedding crew.
Brewery Hopping
With Irish blood in the mix, there was no way my beer-loving family was skipping Soldotna’s breweries. We kicked things off at Kenai River Brewing, where the lineup of local beers and a sunny patio made it easy to linger. From there, we headed to St. Elias Brewing Co. for dinner. The pizza was nothing to write home about, but the Blueberry Ale was a crowd-pleaser.
Kaladi Brothers Coffee
Local chain or not, Kaladi won us over with the best cup of coffee in town. The Soldotna café also happens to be their very first location.
6. Anchorage
*You’ll notice there’s no ‘where to stay’ section for Anchorage. Truthfully, it wasn’t my favorite destination, and I’d point you toward Alaska’s more scenic spots instead. That said, if you need to break up your travels, you’ll have no trouble finding accommodations here.
Things to Do in Anchorage, AK
Lunch at 49th State Brewing
With a full day to fill before our flight home, we began our time in Anchorage at 49th State Brewing. The space is massive, with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating (we snagged spots at the bar). Both the food and beer hit the mark, and the industrial-modern design sealed the deal. If you find yourself in Anchorage, this one’s a must.
Window Shop at Alaska Mint
Alaska Mint supplied my brother-in-law with the perfect bolo tie for the wedding, so naturally I had to take a look around too. The shop is packed with everything from new pieces to vintage finds, perfect for a little window shopping.
Dinner at Rustic Goat
We popped into Rustic Goat on a whim for a final drink before the airport. Too full from lunch to order food, we settled in with our beers, people-watched, and admired the plates coming out of the kitchen—they looked good enough to warrant a return trip.
Until next time, Alaska.