Top 5 Alaska Tours for Families That Kids and Adults Will Both Love

Planning a family vacation in Alaska is an exciting adventure, but with so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to choose the best activities that everyone will enjoy. Alaska offers a variety of tours that are perfect for families—whether you're traveling with toddlers or teenagers, or simply looking for experiences that will bring joy to the entire family. From stunning glaciers to wild adventures, here are five unforgettable Alaska tours that both kids and adults will love.

1. Turnagain Arm Glacier DiscoveryAlaska is famous for its breathtaking glaciers, and the Turnagain Arm Glacier Discovery tour offers a family-friendly opportunity to explore one of the most impressive regions in the state. Located just south of Anchorage, Turnagain Arm is home to numerous stunning glaciers, including the powerful Portage Glacier.

Why it’s perfect for families:

• Scenic Drive: The scenic drive along Turnagain Arm is a highlight for families. You'll pass through lush forests, sweeping vistas, and the iconic waters of the arm itself. The views alone are worth the trip.

• Wildlife Viewing: Turnagain Arm is a fantastic spot to spot wildlife, including Dall sheep, moose, and a variety of birds. Kids will love the thrill of spotting animals in their natural habitat.

• Interactive Learning: My guided tours include educational insights about the glaciers, wildlife, and local history. This is both fun and educational for kids and adults alike.
  

This tour is ideal for families who enjoy nature, wildlife, and scenic beauty, making it a perfect start to your Alaskan adventure.

2. Heart of Anchorage City Tour While Alaska’s wilderness is undoubtedly a major draw, Anchorage itself is a vibrant city full of activities that the whole family can enjoy. The Heart of Anchorage City Tour is a comprehensive way to experience the highlights of this charming urban center, offering a mix of history, culture, and outdoor beauty.

Why it’s perfect for families:

• Family-Friendly Exploration: This guided tour takes you through Anchorage's most popular attractions, and being private optional visits include the Alaska Native Heritage Center, where your family can learn about indigenous cultures through interactive exhibits, demonstrations, and performances. Kincaid park, Anchorage’s largest to look for moose as we safely from inside drive though the forest. 

• Downtown Anchorage: Explore downtown with a driving tour passing bustling areas such as; Anchorage Market & Festival, local shops, and the historic railroad depot. It’s a relaxed and area that’s perfect for families of all ages.

• Interactive Fun: The kids will enjoy visiting the Flattop Mountain, where they can get walk nature trails in Chugach State Park while having an elevated view of all of Anchorage and the Cook Inlet. It’s an educational experience that’s also incredibly fun.
  

This tour gives your family a great introduction to Alaska’s culture and wildlife, all while enjoying the convenience of exploring Anchorage without long drives.

3. Hatcher Pass / Palmer Expedition

For families who love adventure and want to experience the stunning landscapes of Alaska up close, the Hatcher Pass / Palmer Expedition is a must-do tour. Located just an hour and a half outside of Anchorage, Hatcher Pass offers beautiful mountain views, alpine meadows, and a taste of Alaskan history.

Why it’s perfect for families:

• Stunning Scenery: The drive through Hatcher Pass takes you through towering mountain ranges, pristine lakes, and vast valleys. The views are breathtaking, and kids will love the opportunity to snap photos at every turn.

• Historical Sites: Along the way, your family will stop at the historic Independence Mine State Historical Park, where you can learn about Alaska’s gold mining history. The area is also home to easy, family-friendly hikes, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor exploration.

• Outdoor Fun: During the warmer months, families can enjoy activities like berry picking, short hikes, and picnicking in scenic spots. In the winter, the area turns into a winter wonderland, perfect for snowshoeing, sledding, or even skiing if your family is up for it.
  

Hatcher Pass is a great choice for families who enjoy outdoor activities and want to experience Alaska’s wild beauty with a side of history and adventure.

4. Matanuska Glacier Blue Ice ExcursionFor families seeking a more hands-on adventure, the Matanuska Glacier Blue Ice Excursion is the perfect choice. The Matanuska Glacier, located about two hours north of Anchorage, is one of Alaska’s most accessible glaciers and offers families an incredible opportunity to get up close and personal with this natural wonder.

Why it’s perfect for families:

• Glacier Exploration: On this tour, families will get the chance to hike across the glacier’s blue ice formations, potentially explore ice caves, crevasses, and frozen waterfalls. It’s an incredible adventure for kids to experience the sheer scale of a glacier and learn about glaciology.

• Guided Tour: Knowledgeable guides will lead your family safely across the glacier, providing insights into the glacier’s formation, the local ecosystem, and the impact of climate change on glaciers. This is an educational experience that will spark the curiosity of young minds.

• Photo Opportunities: The striking blue ice, towering ice formations, and pristine surroundings make this an excellent spot for family photos. Kids will love the chance to snap a picture while standing on a glacier!
  

This tour is ideal for families looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combines adventure, education, and awe-inspiring natural beauty.

5. Seward Adventure Awaits

Seward is one of Alaska’s most beautiful and family-friendly coastal towns, and the Seward Adventure Awaits tour is the perfect way to explore the region. Located on the stunning Kenai Peninsula, Seward is known for its incredible wildlife, breathtaking fjords, and outdoor activities. 

Why it’s perfect for families:

• Wildlife Cruises: Take a family-friendly wildlife cruise in Resurrection Bay, where you’ll have the chance to see seals, sea otters, puffins, and even humpback whales. The kids will be thrilled by the chance to spot marine life in its natural habitat.

• Kenai Fjords National Park: The cruise also takes you into Kenai Fjords National Park, where towering glaciers and dramatic coastal cliffs create a picturesque backdrop for your family adventure.

• Alaska SeaLife Center: Back in Seward, the Alaska SeaLife Center is an excellent educational stop for families. Kids can see sea lions, otters, and other marine creatures up close while learning about Alaska’s marine ecosystems.
  

Seward Adventure Awaits offers families the chance to experience Alaska’s wildlife and glaciers from both land and sea, making it a well-rounded tour for nature lovers of all ages.

Alaska offers a wealth of family-friendly tours that cater to all ages, ensuring everyone from young children to adults can enjoy the beauty, adventure, and culture the state has to offer. Whether it’s exploring glaciers on foot, taking in the sights of Anchorage, or embarking on a wildlife cruise, these top 5 Alaska tours will create memories your family will cherish for years to come.

When planning your Alaskan family vacation, make sure to choose tours that offer a mix of adventure, education, and relaxation, ensuring a well-rounded experience for all members of the family. Blueberry Tours offers personalized and small-group tours that highlight the best of Alaska, from wildlife encounters to breathtaking natural landscapes. Let us help you create the perfect itinerary for your family’s unforgettable Alaskan journey.