Cozy Winter Experiences in Alaska

As the temperatures drop in Alaska, the season of cozy experiences begins. Visiting Alaska in the winter certainly doesn’t require being idle – but it also doesn’t mean having to go to extremes. The colder months offer a unique opportunity to enjoy the surroundings and ambience of this incredible land – even from the warmth and comfort of the indoors.

Revel in the Aurora in Comfort

The aurora borealis: One of the most iconic and ethereal experiences Alaska has to offer. If you don’t want to brave subzero temps to enjoy it, there are many venues that allow you to view this phenomenon without having to brave the elements. 

Railroad tours

The Aurora Winter Train on the Alaska Railroad runs 12 hours from Anchorage to Fairbanks, during winter months. This iconic railway allows you a chance to glimpse the northern lights and other incredible sights, right from the comfort of the train car. 

Yoga and Aurora Retreats

There are yoga retreats specifically catered to viewing the aurora, right here in Alaska. Breathe deeply and feel the energy from floor to sky, with a view that will stay with you long after your session ends. 

Aurora cruiseS

Can you see the northern lights on an Alaska cruise? Yes! You just have to time it during aurora season from mid-August through mid-April. Some cruise lines are extending their cruise seasons later into the fall, which is great for aurora seekers. Book your cruise in September or October for the best chances of seeing the northern lights. From the beautiful waters of Alaska, you can sit back, relax, and watch the lights dance on the ocean.

Northern Lights Tours

Many northern lights tours offer warming huts, hot drinks, fire pits, and even buildings specially built for aurora viewing. So, even if you find yourself headed outdoors for aurora viewing, tour guides are on hand to make sure it’s a cozy experience.

Cozy Cabins and Vacation Rentals

Want to enjoy Alaska like a local? Rent a space to call your own and bask in the tranquility that surrounds you. Most rental properties offer lower rates during winter months, and some come with winter amenities like fireplaces, hot tubs, and outdoor gear. From A-frame cabins to yurts – and even converted airplane hangars – you’ll find that it won’t take long to settle into your own winter paradise.

Enjoy Fine Foods, Drink, and More

Alaska's exciting culinary scene is another satisfying way to enjoy the local ambiance and culture while keeping warm indoors. From fresh vegetables grown in greenhouses across the state to locally harvested fish and game – the food here is delicious year-round. Or, try a tour or tasting at one of the state's many breweries or distilleries – the perfect way to spend a wintery evening. Surround yourself with music and culture with a local brew, spirit, or wine and revel in the unique warmth of the season.

Spas and Springs

Bathe in Alaska’s natural splendor with spas and hot springs around the state. You’ll find nature’s rejuvenation remedy at Chena Hot Springs in Fairbanks. The therapeutic mineral-rich waters will warm you body and soul under the northern lights or stars. The Alyeska Nordic Spa at Alyeska Resort in Girdwood offers an unparalleled experience of coziness. Here, multiple pools, saunas, hot tubs, exclusive dining, yoga, and massage offerings give you the entire package of tranquility – nestled in the boreal forest with mountain views all around.

Activities to Keep You Cozy

Cultural Centers

For a millennia, Alaska Native Peoples have thrived in some of the harshest environments on earth. A visit to one of Alaska’s cultural centers is not only a must-have educational experience, but it's a great indoor activity to enjoy in winter. Enjoy song and dance performances, village tours, exhibits featuring art and artifacts, and purchase authentic Alaska Native art. Learn how different Alaska Native Peoples utilized the resources around them to prepare and sustain their families in colder months. Some must-visits are the Alaska Native Heritage Center in Anchorage, the Sealaska Heritage Institute in Juneau, the Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center in Fairbanks, and the Totem Heritage Center in Ketchikan. 

Museums

Expand your cultural knowledge through local museums while learning more about Alaska history – from past to present. These are just some of the many museums that boast warmth and history under one roof:

• Anchorage Museum, Anchorage
• Alaska Aviation Museum, Anchorage
• Museum of the North, Fairbanks
• Antique Auto Museum, Fairbanks
• Alaska State Museum, Juneau
• Sheldon Jackson Museum, Sitka
• Tongass Historical Museum, Ketchikan
• Palmer Museum, Palmer
• Pratt Museum, Homer
• Iditarod Museum, Wasilla

Alaska Wildlife 

You can still enjoy Alaska wildlife in the winter months, from the indoors. The Raptor Center in Sitka allows you to see some of nature’s most incredible bird species up close. If you’re looking for ocean life, visit the Alaska SeaLife Center in Seward, the Alaska Islands & Ocean Visitor Center in Homer, and the Sitka Sound Science Center in Sitka.

Celebrate the holiday season

No matter the time of year, be sure to have a chat with Santa at The Santa Claus House in North Pole, just outside of Fairbanks. This year-round Christmas shop is a magical experience for friends and families alike.

Other indoor activities to stay cozy

• Work with your hands: Keep cozy and bring home a piece of your travels with you! Visit local craft centers and artist workshops that offer pottery making, crafting, painting, and more. 
• Enjoy the theater or live music: Catch a performance at a community theater or performing arts center to get a taste of the local flare and culture of the state. 
• Go shopping: Browse Alaska-made art, clothing, jewelry, pottery, food, beauty products, and more at locally-owned shops and galleries. 

Of course there are plenty of winter outdoor activities that will get you moving outside, including downhill skiing & snowboarding, cross country skiing, fat tire biking, snowshoeing, dog sledding, and snowmachining - and there's no better feeling than snuggling by the fire with a warm drink after playing all day in the snow. No matter the weather, there are so many ways to curate a cozy sense of awe and wonder in Alaska in winter.