4 Days in Anchorage, Seward & Kenai Fjords National Park

You'll have today to explore the bustling largest city in Alaska, and you have plenty of options for activities. Take a city tour via trolley or bike to get an overview of the city. Go on a brewery tour and sample some of the innovative suds being brewed here. And of course, you'll also want to experience the city's fantastic bars and restaurants.

From Anchorage, it's a 2.5-hour drive or bus ride, or a 4-hour train ride ride south to this quaint seaside town. If you're driving, be sure to stop along Turnagain Arm to look for Dall sheep and beluga whales. Once in Seward, get out onto the shimmering waters of Kenai Fjords National Park, which plays host to some of the state's most spectacular fjords and glaciers. Several great tour operators offer cruises that take you out to witness their majesty and experience the thrill of a calving glacier. You'll also be on the lookout for willdife like whales and sea otters.

Take the morning to soak in some more of the area's beautiful scenery, perhaps with a sea kayak outing or a hike. Don't miss the unique opportunity of walking right up to the face of a glacier! Exit Glacier is just a 10- to 15-minute drive from town; a 20-minute walk brings you right up to the mountain of blue ice, where you can listen to it crackle. Then it's time to drive back to Anchorage. Along the way, drop by the 200-acre Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center for an up-close view of some of the state's unique creatures.

Since you've taken an overall city tour, spend your final day in Anchorage getting an in-depth look at the 49th state. Learn more about the fascinating local history at the Anchorage Museum, or visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center for a dose of history and culture. And don't forget to do some souvenir shopping before you go; Alaska offers many unique treasures, and you'll want memories of your amazing trip here!