Alaska, a land of immense beauty and adventure, is gearing up to celebrate a significant milestone. While the state itself will mark its centennial in a few decades, 2025 is a year of centennial celebrations for some of its most iconic events and destinations, making it one of the Best Places To Travel In The Usa. One such event is the Serum Run, a heroic dog sled relay from 1925 that inspired the world-famous Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. As Alaska commemorates these centennial moments, it presents a unique opportunity for travelers to immerse themselves in its rich history and breathtaking landscapes.
One of the most thrilling centennial events is undoubtedly the 100th anniversary of the Serum Run. This historic event is celebrated annually with the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, drawing spectators from around the globe. To fully experience the excitement, consider staying at the Wildbirch Hotel, Anchorage’s newest boutique hotel. Opening in early 2025, the Wildbirch offers prime, unobstructed views of the Iditarod start line, allowing guests to witness the beginning of this incredible 1,000-mile race.
Another jewel in Alaska’s crown celebrating its centennial in 2025 is Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. Established as a national monument in 1925, Glacier Bay is a pristine wilderness of towering mountains, dramatic coastlines, and abundant wildlife. This park is the ancestral home of the Huna Tlingit people, who are actively collaborating with the National Park Service to revive and share their cultural heritage. A significant achievement of this collaboration is the construction of the Xúnaa Shuká Hít tribal house, the first permanent clan house in the area for over 250 years, marking a powerful return of tradition to these lands. The Huna Tlingit also operate Icy Strait Point, a premier cruise destination in Southeast Alaska. In 2025, Icy Strait Point will be a key stop for new voyages, including Princess Cruises’ 22-day Ultimate Alaska Solstice voyage. Departing from San Francisco in June, this itinerary maximizes the extended daylight of the summer solstice, offering ample time to marvel at Glacier Bay National Park, Hubbard Glacier, and College Fjord.
For wildlife enthusiasts seeking unforgettable encounters, Kodiak Island and the Kodiak Brown Bear Center (KBBC) are essential destinations. KBBC, owned by native communities, provides intimate and respectful bear viewing experiences in the heart of brown bear territory. In the summer of 2025, KBBC will unveil a new wellness center on a scenic bluff and introduce six-day fly-fishing programs on the Karluk River. After a day of adventure, guests can relax in wood cabins with lake views and enjoy a traditional Alutiiq steam bath, known as maqiwik.
Getting to Alaska to experience these best places to travel in the USA is now more convenient than ever. Alaska Airlines has expanded its flight network in 2024, adding a daily nonstop route to New York, alongside existing services to San Diego, Nashville, and Portland, Oregon. This increased accessibility makes planning your Alaskan adventure easier than ever.
Plan Your Alaskan Centennial Trip:
To embark on this Alaskan journey, fly directly into Anchorage to witness the start of the Iditarod. From Anchorage, a short flight to Gustavus Airport places you at the gateway to Glacier Bay National Park. Alternatively, the Alaska State Ferry offers scenic voyages to Gustavus. For a comprehensive Alaskan experience, consider Princess Cruises’ Ultimate Alaska Solstice voyage, beginning in San Francisco in June.
