7-Day Kenai Peninsula Highlights from Anchorage 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 Moose

Wake up early and begin the 2- to 3-hour drive south to Seward, on the Kenai Peninsula. Here are some ideas when you arrive:

• 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.

Hop on a half-day (3-4 hr) cruise and venture out into Resurrection Bay. It’s perfect for adults and little ones alike, and the boats often have fun programs for kids on board. You’ll explore the coastlines and look for whales, seals, puffins, and more. There are heated cabins inside these cruises, so if it’s too chilly outside for the little ones, you can take them into the cabin and still enjoy the views. Bring warm clothes, since it can get breezy. End your day with some beachcombing around Seward, where kids can collect and throw rocks, and maybe even spot some small marine creatures.

Photo: NPS Day Cruise Holgate Glacier

Today, embark on a scenic 3-hour drive from Seward to Homer. Upon arrival, visit the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center. This interactive center offers exhibits about the marine environment and wildlife of the region, with hands-on displays that kids will enjoy. Spend the rest of the day exploring the Homer Spit, where there are beaches for kids to play, collect shells, and explore tide pools. The Spit also has shops and restaurants that are family-friendly, making it a great place to spend the afternoon.

Photo: The Homer Split

Begin your day with a visit to Bishop's Beach. This is a great spot for beachcombing and tidepooling at low tide. Afterward, take a short and easy walk along the Beluga Slough Trail, which offers opportunities to see birds and other wildlife. In the afternoon, visit the Homer Public Library for storytime sessions and other activities for young children. End your day at one of Homer's playgrounds, such as Bayview Park or Karen Hornaday Park, where kids can burn off some energy.

Photo: Beach in Homer

Today, it’s a 5-hour drive back to Anchorage. You’ll want to make lots of stops to break up the drive. In Soldotna, stop at the Visitor Center and let kids walk along the boardwalks by the Kenai River. Tern Lake near Cooper Landing is another good spot to stretch the legs, as well as the Turnagain Pass Rest Area. Just before town stop at Potter Marsh 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: Cooper Landing

Tony Knowles Coastal TrailOn your final day in Anchorage, start with a family walk or bike ride along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. The trail offers beautiful views of the coastline and is stroller-friendly. Families with young children can rent bike trailers from local outfitters. Afterward, visit the Anchorage Public Library for a storytime session. End your Alaskan adventure with a visit to the Alaska Botanical Garden for a peaceful and educational stroll through the trails and variety of plants. This is a perfect way to wind down and reflect on your memorable trip to Alaska.

Photo: Coastal Trail