Denali Park Salmon Bake

If you’re dying to try famous Alaskan salmon in a landmark setting, this is truly the place to do it. Known as “The Bake,” this restaurant has been open since 1984. Just a mile from the park, it’s Denali’s original roadside attraction.

On the menu, you’ll find cedar-plank salmon, of course. But that’s just the beginning. There’s also crab legs and their famous halibut tacos. In fact, there’s something for everyone, including chicken, steaks, burgers, wings, and salads. And all served in big portions. Dinner ends at 11 p.m., but there’s a tasty taco cart afterwards, and the bar’s open til 2 a.m. Sample beer from the 33 taps or order up a specialty cocktail. And if you like the food, order a boxed lunch for your trip into the park the following day.

But The Bake isn’t just about the food—it’s an experience. In fact, this place has come into its own just in the past 10 years. That’s thanks to its local Alaskan ownership. Today, there’s live music and entertainment every night of the week. There are great views upstairs. And it all happens in a rustic setting. Even the wooden floor is charmingly slanted, thanks to years of temperature extremes. The Bake is an Alaskan institution—don’t miss this historic Denali landmark.