As you consider the Best Places To Travel In The United States, look no further than Alaska, a land of unparalleled beauty and adventure. In 2025, Alaska is not just another destination; it’s a centennial celebration waiting to be explored. While the state itself will mark its 100th anniversary in a few decades, many of its iconic events and attractions are reaching their centennial milestones in 2025, offering unique experiences for every traveler.
Experience the Historic Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race
One of the most thrilling events marking its 100th year is the Serum Run, the heroic 1925 sled dog relay that delivered life-saving diphtheria antitoxin to Nome. This event is annually commemorated by the legendary Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. Imagine witnessing the excitement as top mushers and their incredible dog teams embark on a 1,000-mile journey across Alaska’s stunning landscapes. To be at the heart of the action, position yourself at the Wildbirch Hotel in Anchorage. This brand-new boutique hotel, Anchorage’s first major lodging in 20 years, opens in early 2025 and provides perfect, unobstructed views of the Iditarod start line from its 252 design-forward guest rooms. Partnering with local artists, the Wildbirch Hotel offers an immersive Alaskan experience right from the beginning of your adventure.
Explore the Centennial Majesty of Glacier Bay National Park
Another jewel celebrating its 100th anniversary as a national monument (established in 1925) is the breathtaking Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. For those seeking the best places to travel in the United States for natural beauty, Glacier Bay is an unmissable destination. This park boasts rugged mountains, dramatic coastlines, and abundant wildlife. Importantly, Glacier Bay is the ancestral land of the Huna Tlingit people. In a remarkable collaboration with the National Park Service, the Huna Tlingit are revitalizing their oral histories and cultural traditions. A significant achievement is the construction of the Xúnaa Shuká Hít tribal house, the first permanent clan house on these shores since glacial activity destroyed villages over 250 years ago. The Huna people also own Icy Strait Point, a premier cruise destination in southeast Alaska, offering immersive cultural and natural experiences.
In 2025, Icy Strait Point will be a port of call for exciting new sailings, including Princess Cruises’ 22-day Ultimate Alaska Solstice voyage, departing from San Francisco in June. This itinerary is perfectly timed to take advantage of the summer solstice’s extended daylight, with over 19 hours of sunlight. This extended daylight allows for ample time to soak in the panoramic vistas of Glacier Bay National Park, the majestic Hubbard Glacier, and the stunning College Fjord, making it a top choice when considering the best places to travel in the United States for unforgettable scenery.
Discover Kodiak Brown Bears and Alutiiq Wellness Traditions
For an exceptional wildlife encounter combined with cultural immersion, venture to the Native-owned Kodiak Brown Bear Center (KBBC) on Kodiak Island. This verdant island is home to the largest subspecies of brown bear in the world. In the summer of 2025, KBBC will unveil a new wellness center perched on a picturesque bluff, adding a unique dimension to your Alaskan journey. They will also introduce new six-day fly-fishing programs on the Karluk River. After a day of adventure, guests can retreat to cozy wood cabins overlooking the lake and rejuvenate with a communal Banya-style steam bath, known as maqiwik by the Alutiiq people.
Getting to Alaska: Easier Than Ever
Planning your Alaskan adventure in 2025 is now more convenient than ever. Alaska Airlines has expanded its flight schedule in 2024, adding a daily nonstop route to New York, complementing existing services to San Diego, Nashville, and Portland, Oregon. Direct flights to Anchorage from numerous cities worldwide, including Las Vegas, New York, and Atlanta, make accessing the starting point of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race simple and efficient.
How to plan it: Fly directly to Anchorage to witness the Iditarod start. From there, a short 3 hour and 15-minute flight will take you to Gustavus Airport (GST), the gateway to Glacier Bay National Park. Alternatively, the Alaska State Ferry offers regular trips to Gustavus if you prefer a scenic sea journey. For those planning a June trip, consider embarking on Princess Cruises’ Ultimate Alaska Solstice voyage from San Francisco for an all-encompassing Alaskan experience.
When considering the best places to travel in the United States in 2025, Alaska offers a unique blend of adventure, culture, and natural splendor, especially with its centennial celebrations. Start planning your unforgettable trip to the Last Frontier today.
