Arctic Amore: A Honeymooners Guide to Visiting Alaska

Day 1: Anchorage

Begin your Alaskan honeymoon in Anchorage by exploring this vibrant, culturally rich city. Visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center to experience a cultural treasure and expand your knowledge of the state’s indigenous people. Afterward, elevate your adventure with your new spouse with a Glacier Helicopter ride. Soar over pristine landscapes, marveling at the colossal glaciers beneath you. (Pro-Traveler Tip: Weather conditions in Alaska can be unpredictable, and mornings often offer clearer skies and smoother flying conditions). Next, head to Palmer for a thrilling Dog Mushing Tour. Glide through snowy terrain, guided by a team of huskies, as you embrace the snowy wonderland that Alaska is known for.

Day 2: Denali

Embark on a scenic journey to Denali National Park, where more adventure awaits. Hike to Mount Healy Overlook, a trail offering panoramic views of the awe-inspiring Denali peaks. Immerse yourselves in the vast wilderness, surrounded by untouched landscapes and the untamed beauty of Alaska. This intimate trek is sure to set the tone for the rugged romance of your Alaskan getaway. (Pro-Traveler Tip: Don’t forget to bring a pair of binoculars to spot wildlife such as grizzly bears, caribou or Dall sheep. You’ll be able to observe these creatures in their natural habitat without disturbing them).

Day 3: Fairbanks

Head to Fairbanks where both relaxation and celestial wonders await. First, drive to Chena Hot Springs to soak in the rejuvenating hot springs, surrounded by snowy landscapes. In the evening, find a good viewing spot in Fairbanks to witness the magical Northern Lights dance across the Arctic sky. Sharing this enchanting celestial display with your new partner will surely create memories that will last a lifetime. (Pro-Traveler Tip: If you only have one evening to spare, don’t gamble on the weather. Find an aurora chaser - like Aaron from Fairbanks Aurora Tours - Fairbanks Aurora Tours who will track down the best place to view the Northern Lights and drive you there. In some cases, you may be in for a long night of driving, but the experience is worth a couple of baggy eyes!).

Day 4: Seward

Return to Anchorage and embark on a scenic train journey aboard the Coastal Classic to Seward. From Anchorage, the train meanders alongside Turnagain Arm before delving into the untamed wilderness of the Kenai Peninsula, offering vistas of colossal glaciers and majestic waterfalls throughout the journey. (Pro-Traveler Tip: Treat yourself to the GoldStar Service when booking your ticket. Glass-dome ceilings provide panoramic vistas of Alaska's unfolding landscapes along the tracks and an exclusive outdoor upper-level viewing platform). Once in Seward, set sail to explore Kenai Fjords National Park by boat. Marvel at towering glaciers, spot marine wildlife and immerse yourselves in the coastal beauty of Alaska. This seafaring adventure brings you close to the raw, untouched splendor of the Kenai Fjords.

Day 5: Homer

Conclude your Alaskan honeymoon in Homer, the "Halibut Fishing Capital of the World." Rent a charter fishing boat and venture into the icy waters of Kachemak Bay to fish for halibut. Experience the thrill of the catch while surrounded by stunning coastal scenery. This maritime escapade in Homer adds an adventurous and rewarding finale to your romantic Alaskan odyssey. (Pro-Traveler Tip: Consider bringing along some motion sickness remedies as the waters of Kachemak Bay can be choppy and being green around the gills is the last thing you want to remember about your honeymoon).

ANCHORAGE DINING

Don’t miss breakfast at the popular Snow City Café where the walls feature work of local artists. You can’t go wrong with their Pecan Sticky Buns, Eggs Benedicts or the Spicy Popper Omelet (and be brave, try a side of reindeer sausage).

Simon & Seaforts Saloon & Grill, or simply called Simon’s by the locals, offers dining with a beautiful panoramic view overlooking Cook Inlet, Mount Susitna and the Alaska Range. Simon's offers upscale-casual American fare with a contemporary interpretation of favorite classic cuisine. Be sure to try the Warm Brie with Macadamia Nut Crust and the Tipsy Clams as your starter.

DENALI DINING

Enjoy Serbian specialties and imported wines with a mountain view at Moose-Aka’s. Our favorite meals included moussaka (a baked layered dish of potatoes, ground beef and bacon, topped with sour cream) and sarma (homemade pickled cabbage leaves stuffed with ground beef, lamb and rice, then slow-cooked in a tomato broth.)

Pro-Traveler Tip: Reservations are recommended.

FAIRBANKS DINING

It all started with a chocolate cookie… For one of the best places for breakfast in Fairbanks, run (don’t walk) to The Cookie Jar. Featured on Guy Fieri’s Diners Drive-In & Dives, this cozy restaurant offers delectable dishes like Corned Beef Hash and the oh, so sweet Stuffed Nolan’s (cinnamon roll, stuffed with cream cheese, dipped in egg batter, grilled and dusted with powdered sugar).

For a casual lunch or dinner, try Big Daddy’s. This local favorite restaurant (which was also featured on DDD) calls itself “the northernmost southern BBQ” and serves finger-licking Arkansas-style ribs and smoked turkey along with classic sides like fried okra. Leave room for Big Daddy’s Bread Pudding for dessert!

SEWARD DINING

Don’t miss an opportunity to eat lunch or dinner at The Cookery, a favorite spot among food enthusiasts. The restaurant's creative dishes are crafted with a fervent dedication to Alaskan ingredients. From delectable fresh oysters and seafood to locally sourced farm-raised meats and vibrant produce, the menu offers an array of tantalizing options that change regularly.

Pro-Traveler Tip: Reservations are highly recommended.

HOMER DINING

For dinner with the very best view, try the Harbor Grill. As you dine on your steak or seafood, you can view the Kenai Mountains jutting into the skyline from the east, west and south. Be sure to try the local coconut halibut cheeks, spicy mussels and (not or) the vegetable ceviche. We played no favorites when it came to entrees. Everything was good!

Pro-Traveler Tip: Reservations are recommended.