Wasilla is a beautiful place nested in the heart of the Matanuska-Susitna Valley in Alaska. The city serves as a specimen of Alaskan beauty. With majestic mountains and pristine lakes around, the city happens to be a prime destination for tourists and outdoor adventure lovers. Wasilla brings you a captivating mix of cultural attractions and activities to make your holidays happen. Here, you can enjoy both nature and historical artifacts, which would craft memorable experiences for you. Let’s explore the top things to do in Wasilla in this article.
Wasilla brings you a wide range of activities and attractions to engage in. Whether you love the thrill of outdoor activities or want to explore cultural and historical destinations, Wasilla won’t disappoint you. Nature presents itself with tranquility, and you have plenty of activities to engage yourself. For instance, you can explore the famous Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race Headquarters and embark on scenic drives along the Hatcher Pass. There are several interesting opportunities to engage yourself in the wonders of nature. Moreover, you have events like the Alaska State Fair to visit. The city has got numerous wonders in store for you. Along with this, you have bustling farmers’ markets and lots of exciting events which bring you loads of adventure.
Table of Contents
Top things to do in Wasilla
If you are looking for Wasilla things to do, here’s the ultimate list for you. Make sure to plan accordingly and include most of these activities in your trip!
1. Visit the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race Headquarters
How about immersing yourself in the thrilling world of dog slugging as you visit the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race Headquarters? A visit to this place brings you the opportunity to learn about the traditions, history, and challenges associated with this legendary race. This race spans more than 1,000 miles across the beautiful and rugged terrain in Alaska.
As a part of this race, you can also meet the mushers and witness the close bond between the dogs and humans. Besides, you would love to interact with the sled dogs here.
A visit to the Headquarters presents you with the opportunity to experience the excitement and the spirit of the race. You can also explore the headquarters to learn about interesting feats that these teams of sled dogs accomplish along with their mushers.
2. Experience the beautiful Hatcher Pass
When you look out for popular things to do in Wasilla, don’t miss out on spending your time amidst the majestic Hatcher Pass. This is a breathtaking mountain that showcases the untouched beauty of Alaska. The roads wind frequently, bringing you the opportunity to take a scenic drive through the awe-inspiring landscapes of the alpine tundra. Besides, the place has several crystal-clear lakes and snow-capped peaks. If you happen to be a hiking enthusiast, you will love the paradise of trails. These trails often lead to hidden gems. For instance, you will love the Gold Mint Trail and Reed Lakes.
If you love photography, capture the beautiful flowers, and there are chances of encountering wild species on your way. Altogether, you would love to immerse yourself in the serenity of nature. You would love the sense of tranquility amidst these dramatic landscapes. All these make Hatcher Pass a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
3. Explore the Alaska Museum of Transportation and Industry
Step back in time as you visit the Alaska Museum of Transportation and Industry to discover the rich transportation Heritage of Alaska. Here, you can explore the extensive collection of vintage cars and aircraft. Besides, there are some retro locomotives and interactive exhibitions showcasing the challenges that the remote and rugged terrain of Alaska faces.
A visit to this museum is one of the top Wasilla things to do. Here, you can gain a deeper understanding of the resilience that people faced while shaping Alaska’s transportation history. You can explore the evolving transportation modes and the fascinating heritage of the city when you visit this Museum.
4. Visit the Nancy Lake State Recreation Area to enjoy outdoor activities
If you happen to be a nature enthusiast, you would love the adventure awaiting you at Nancy Lake State Recreation Area. This is a sprawling park that offers a wide range of activities to address the need of every outdoor enthusiast. So, you have miles of hiking trails to explore and fascinate yourself amidst the picturesque landscapes.
It’s enthralling for the visitors to camp under the starry sky of Alaska. You may also love your peaceful ride on a canoe or kayak on the lakes. Interestingly, the area has as many as 20 lakes, so you won’t run out of options! This is one of the fun things to do in Wasilla. In case you happen to be a fishing enthusiast, you can cast your lines and try their luck. Maybe, you can catch a salmon or a trout. Also, the place brings plenty of activities for wildlife enthusiasts. Keep your eyes open to catch a glimpse of beavers or moose. Moreover, you have several bird species in the area, so it pays to try your hands at photography.
5. Spend time in the Mat-Su Valley Farmers Market
If you are someone who loves exploring the local culture, visit the Mat-Su Valley Farmers Market. Here, you get the opportunity to indulge in fresh crafts, produce, and pamper yourself with delicious treats. This is a bustling market that brings together local artisans, farmers, and food vendors. Here, you have a unique opportunity to mingle with the local community and enjoy the flavors of Alaska.
Visitors love browsing through the stalls selling fresh vegetables. Then there are sample artisanal cheeses along with baked edibles. You would also love the unique crafts developed by the local artisans. People love to engage in conversations with vendors, who are friendly indeed. If you are interested in sustainable farming practices, you can learn from them. So, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the market that reflects the enriched agricultural heritage of the area.
6. Visit the Alaska Native Heritage Centre
If you are someone who finds gratification in exploring the native heritage of a place, visit the Native Heritage Centre of Alaska. Here, you can step into a world where you have ancient traditions to explore. The Heritage Centre hosts engaging exhibits, interactive demonstrations, and live performances. Besides, you also have the opportunity to explore the traditional dwellings that represent different Native groups.
Cultural-minded people would also find a fascinating experience in witnessing traditional dances. Besides, you would love the stories that have been passed down over the generations.
Visitors enjoy interacting with the native artisans showcasing their crafts. They also share their cultural practices. Here, you can gain a deeper understanding of the indigenous communities that have been thriving over thousands of years in the region. You would also appreciate the vibrant heritage of the first people in Alaska.
7. Go for a scenic flight-seeing tour
Take your adventure to the next level as you witness the beauty of Alaska from a bird’s eye view. Flight-seeing tours in the city are beautiful indeed. This is one of the most adventurous things to do in Wasilla. How about soaring above the majestic glaciers, picturesque valleys, and towering mountains?
Be ready to take majestic photos from your flight as you capture the details and create memories you would love to cherish throughout your life. Also, it would be pretty creative to make some photo to video and capture such memories. Moreover, you would be flying over the highest peak in North America, Denali. The vastness of the rugged landscapes and untamed wilderness would mesmerize you.
Enjoy the comfort of the aircraft as you explore a unique perspective of the terrains below, pristine lakes, and meandering rivers. All these features define the scenic state. So, if you are looking for fun things to do in Wasilla, don’t miss out on the flightseeing experience.
8. Visit the historical Wasilla Museum and Visitor Center
Wasilla has an interesting and intriguing history that captivates its visitors. So, make sure to visit the historical Wasilla Museum and Visitor Center as a part of your trip to this city. here, you can engage with exhibits that showcase the pioneer roots of the city. Besides, you would love to explore the effect of the gold rush. Visitors also love exploring the development of the Iditarod Trail.
This visit will also educate you about the fascinating characters who shaped the region. Visitors can gain insight into the challenges encountered while building a community amidst the rugged landscape of Alaska.
The museum provides a diverse glimpse into the area’s history, ranging from photographs and artifacts to personal stories. So, you have the opportunity to discover the stories of people who believed that this area was their home. This way, you can gain a deeper insight into the unique character of the city.
9. Go fishing in the Willow Creek
If you love fishing, engage yourself in the fascinating hobby at the famous Willow Creek. This creek is known for its abundance of fish populations. Besides, you would love the scenic waterway as you catch trout, salmon, and graylings in large sizes.
Regardless of your experience level, you would love to spend your time fishing amidst the peaceful surroundings. The water of the creek is crystal-clear, and you would be surrounded by the wilderness of Alaska. Enrich your soul would the serenity of nature as you spend a satisfying time in the picturesque fishing spots.
10. Visit the Alaska State Fair
Schedule your trip to Wasilla in such a way that you can catch the Alaska State Fair. This is an annual celebration of the rich agricultural heritage of the city. You would love the community spirit and entertainment at the fair.
Visitors can engage in adrenaline-pumping activities like rides and attend live music shows. Most importantly, you would love the delicious food at Alaska State Fair. Here, people find entertainment activities for all ages. Taste the delicious local cuisine and browse through beautiful artwork and unique crafts. This way, you can cherish the true spirit of Alaska.
Conclusion
Now that you are aware of all the things to do in Wasilla in Alaska, plan your trip to capture the enjoyment and thrill of several activities. Here, you can create unforgettable memories, regardless of your age and interests. Right from enjoying dog sledding at the race to exploring the wonderful Hatcher Pass, the city brings you a true specimen of the Alaskan culture. There are plenty of fun things to do in Wasilla as well, as you immerse yourself in the city’s history and culture.
So, pack your bags and enjoy loads of activities in Wasilla to create lifelong memories. Ignite the spirit of adventure and cherish the untouched beauty of Wasilla in the heart of Alaska.
