Alaska is known for its vast wilderness and natural beauty, but its lesser appreciated feature is its main streets. These stretches of road are usually where all the human activity occurs in town. Some main streets are set against a backdrop of mountains and forests. Most boast a variety of shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Others can be less glamorous. Here are 10 unique Alaskan main streets that are worth visiting.
Juneau
Juneau’s main street, Front Street, is located along the water’s edge. The U.S. state capital is the only capital to be disconnected from the contiguous United States. Immersed within the wilderness, the city is bustling with events like First Friday Art Walk and tours at the Alaska State Capitol. Be aware that Juneau experiences a massive influx of visitors during cruise season between May and September.
Sitka
Sitka is where American, Russian, and Tlingit—indigenous people—culture meld together. Lincoln Street, Sitka’s main street, is lined with diverse storefronts and restaurants. St. Michael’s Cathedral, a Russian Orthodox Church, and the Russian Bishop’s home, which gives tours, echo the Kremlin’s occupancy. Totem poles standing all over town reflect the Tlingit’s presence in the area.
Skagway
Skagway’s Main Street recalls the town’s history during the Klondike Gold Rush. In the National Historic District, buildings and ambiance capture the excitement. The town was an important gateway for travelers seeking to strike it rich in Yukon. Attractions such as the Red Onion Saloon and some museums showcase the area’s history.
Ketchikan
For this main street you’ll have to travel by boat or plane. Ketchikan is situated on Revillagigedo Island, featuring a main street that offers tourists shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. The town is known for its spectacular fishing, earning it the title “Salmon Capital of the World.” Tlingit and Haida totem poles littered throughout the region share the area’s history.
Talkeetna
Talkeetna and its bustling Main Street hub are located at the base of Mount Denali. The street features a two-block area packed with historic buildings, such as Nagley’s Store, which was built in 1921 and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Other landmark buildings include the Talkeetna Roadhouse and the Fairview Inn. Local artisan boutiques, restaurants, and other shops boast unique experiences.
Valdez
Egan Drive is the main street in Valdez, located at the head of Port Valdez. It leads to Richardson Highway and Thompson Pass, providing the gateway to Chugach National Forest. In 1989, the Exxon Valdez oil spill occurred and had a significant environmental and economic impact on the surrounding area. Sans human activity, Valdez’s natural beauty is stunning.
Wrangell
Wrangell is one of Alaska’s oldest towns, unique having existed under Tlingit, Russian, British, and United States rule. Its main street is lined with historic buildings, such as the Chief Shakes Tribal House. Several totem poles showcase the area’s rich Tlingit history. Nearby, the Wrangell Mountains and the Gulf of Alaska make for a breathtaking background.
Girdwood
Girdwood’s central hub offers visitors a smattering of shops, restaurants, and activities. Surrounded by natural beauty, the town was once a supply camp for gold miners during the early 1900s. Alyeska Ski Resort is one of Girdwood’s most popular tourist destinations for skiers and snowboarders. Learn about the town’s history and get in on the winter action.
Gustavus
Despite only being accessible by plane or boat, Gustavus has a vibrant main street. There are no street signs, so navigation relies on landmarks. The area is the ancestral homeland of the Huna Tlingit people and has a deep history with seasonal harvesting. For tourists, Gustavus is a popular gateway to the outdoor adventures and wildlife viewing at Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve.
Homer
Homer is a small fishing town on the Kenai Peninsula, nicknamed “the end of the road.” Pioneer Avenue is the town’s main street and a major hub for activity—art galleries, restaurants, and shops. The town has some of the best views in Alaska, including the bay, mountains, and the famous Homer Spit. In proximity to vast wilderness, tourists shouldn’t be surprised if they see animals snooping around.
