7-Day Anchorage, Seward, Talketna, & Denali for Families with Kids Under 5

Welcome to Anchorage! Start your Alaskan adventure with a visit to the Alaska Zoo. This zoo is home to a variety of animals native to Alaska and other parts of the world, making it a great place for young children to see animals up close and learn about wildlife. Afterward, head to the Imaginarium Discovery Center at the Anchorage Museum. This hands-on science center features interactive exhibits that allow kids to explore and learn about science in a fun and engaging way. Or, if you want to maximize your time outside, visit the Alaska Botanical Garden, where you can explore trails and a variety of plants, providing a peaceful and educational outing for your little ones.

Photo: Alaska Zoo Canada Lynx

Today, embark on a day trip to Seward. It’s a 2.5 hour drive from Anchorage, so we recommend getting an early start. Here are some options to fill your day:

• Visit the Alaska SeaLife Center, where interactive exhibits and touch tanks allow kids to get up close with marine life like sea stars, anemones, and puffins. It's both educational and entertaining.

• Visit Exit Glacier. This is the one part of Kenai Fjords National Park that’s accessible by road. There’s an accessible, paved loop trail that leads to a view of the glacier and an optional short spur (doable for the littles) that gets you even closer.

• Go dogsledding! Canine athletes will pull you along fun trails, and you’ll get the chance to play with puppies.

• Head to the Seward Waterfront Park, which also has a playground where young children can burn off some energy.

• Take a family-friendly boat tour into Resurrection Bay. There are shorter trips (3 - 4 hours) suitable for young children and offer opportunities to see wildlife like sea otters, seals, and even whales.

Return to Anchorage in the evening.

Photo: Alaska SeaLife Center Touch Pools

Travel to the charming town of Talkeetna today. Start your exploration at Talkeetna Riverfront Park, where kids can run around, have a picnic, and enjoy the scenic views of the river. Afterward, visit the Talkeetna Wild Woods Park, an amazing playground full of Alaska-themed equipment, including the Alaska Railroad and a bush plane. If your family is up for a little adventure, consider a short, family-friendly flightseeing tour. These shorter flights can be exciting for young children and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

Photo: Talkeetna Wild Woods Park

Today, make your way to Denali National Park. Upon arrival, visit the Denali Visitor Center. This is a great starting point with exhibits that are engaging for children. Kids can participate in the Junior Ranger Program, which involves completing a series of activities to earn a Junior Ranger badge. In the afternoon, take a short hike on the McKinley Station Trail, a relatively easy trail that offers a chance to explore the natural surroundings without too much exertion. End your day with a visit to the Murie Science and Learning Center, which offers hands-on exhibits and activities that can captivate young minds.

Photo: Denali NPS Murie Science and Learning Center

Spend the day exploring more of Denali National Park. Start with a sled dog demonstration, where kids can see the dogs up close and learn about their important role in the park. Afterward, take a family-friendly hike on the Horseshoe Lake Trail. This 2-mile round trip hike is relatively flat and offers beautiful views of the lake and potential wildlife sightings. In the afternoon, check the schedule for ranger-led programs that are specifically designed for families and young children. These programs can include storytelling, short walks, and interactive activities. Or rent a bike from Denali Bike Tours to explore local trails. Bike trailers are available for smaller kids.

Photo: Horseshoe Lake Trail Ranger Talk

Begin your 5-hour journey back to Anchorage today, perhaps taking one last hike before you depart. Once you arrive, spend some time at one of Anchorage's many playgrounds and parks. Popular options include Valley of the Moon Park or the Polar Bear Playground in Russian Jack Springs Park.

Photo: Anchorage Valley of the Moon Park

On your final day in Anchorage, start with a visit to the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. This scenic trail is great for a family walk or bike ride, offering beautiful views of the coastline and is stroller-friendly. Or head to Potter Marsh, situated at the edge of town overlooking Turnagain Arm. It’s an easily accessible wildlife viewing spot with 1500 feet of family friendly boardwalk. Look for migrating birds, salmon swimming under the boardwalks, and the occasional moose out in the marsh.

Photo: Potter Marsh Boardwalk