Nature

Alaska

Glaciers, wildlife, and wide-open wonder

Toddler score:8/10

Best from:18m+

Alaska felt like stepping into another world. Between glaciers, wildlife around every corner, and scenery that never seemed real, every day brought something new for Edison to discover.

Getting there

We flew into Anchorage, Alaska's largest city and the easiest entry point for most families. From there, Seward and the Kenai Fjords are about a two-hour drive south — one of the most scenic road trips we've ever done. The landscape starts changing almost immediately, and Edison was glued to the window the entire way.

Best experiences with a toddler

Kenai Fjords National Park was the undisputed highlight. We took a glacier cruise and spotted humpback whales, sea otters, puffins, and calving glaciers all in one afternoon. Edison was absolutely mesmerized. Exit Glacier is also walkable and stunning — one of the few places you can get right up close to a glacier on foot. Keep activities short and let the scenery do the work.

Where to stay

We based ourselves in Seward for the national park access and loved the small-town feel. Accommodations book up fast in summer, so plan ahead. A kitchen or kitchenette is worth seeking out for toddler meal flexibility — dining options in smaller towns can be limited, especially for picky eaters.

What to pack

Waterproof everything. Rain jacket, waterproof boots, and layers for everyone in the family. Alaska weather changes fast and being underprepared ruins the experience. We also brought a carrier for Edison — it's far more practical than a stroller on uneven terrain, boardwalks, and glacier trails.

Edison's pro tip

Pack layers and bring a comfortable toddler carrier. Some of our favorite memories came from Alaska's scenic hikes, where every turn revealed another glacier, waterfall, or mountain view. Take your time — the journey is just as memorable as the destination.