The U.S. is home to many great destinations for romantic getaways, with Alaska serving as an excellent example. Alaska is a bucket list destination for many travelers, but it's not always thought of as a romantic destination. In reality, however, many romantic Alaska destinations allow couples to bask in the beauty of nature while celebrating the love that they have for one another.
Whether you are planning an Alaskan honeymoon or you are hoping to rekindle the joy of young love on your next vacation, you will find that there are plenty of great options in this northern state. Below, we detail five romantic getaways in Alaska for a scenic escape that will help inspire your perfect trip.
1. Homer, Alaska
- Where to Stay: Land's End Resort, 4786 Homer Spit Rd, Homer, AK 99603
- What to do in Homer: Paddleboard on Kachemak Bay, take a fishing charter trip in hopes of catching some fresh Alaskan halibut, visit art galleries that are scattered throughout town.
- What makes Homer romantic? Offering waterfront views and eclectic dining experiences, Homer provides couples with a true escape from the rigors of daily life.
Located about four-and-a-half hours away from Anchorage, Homer is in the far reaches of Alaska, but the journey is worthwhile, particularly for those looking to indulge in romance. Considered to be one of the best couples locations in Alaska, Homer offers stunning views of the Kachemak Bay and the Kenai Mountains. It's here that you will find that quintessential Alaskan skyline that you have been searching for, one complete with sweeping glaciers, towering mountains and sparkling waters.
As one of the best Alaskan getaway locations for couples in search of adventure, Homer offers plenty to do. You might consider a once-in-a-lifetime guided hike of the Grewingk Glacier in Kachemak Bay or perhaps you and your special someone would prefer Kachemak Bay Wildlife Tour. By partnering with local guides, you will learn more about the natural beauty of Homer, the wildlife that thrives in the area and the culture of the local people.
With only 5,700 full-time residents, Homer is undeniably a small town at the edge of Alaska. However, the city has a surprisingly diverse culinary scene, one that is anchored by seafood dishes. The Harbor Grill offers rooftop dining with panoramic views of Homer, making it a favorite among couples who are staying in the city.
2. Fairbanks, Alaska
- Where to stay: Fairbanks Princess Riverside Lodge, 4477 Pikes Landing Rd, Fairbanks, AK 99709
- What to do in Fairbanks: Embark on a Northern Lights tour, enjoy a restorative visit to the Chena Hot Springs, experience a dog-sledding tour in the winter.
- What makes Fairbanks romantic? The Northern Lights cast a magical glow above the city at night, creating the perfect romantic atmosphere for couples.
Couples who enjoy the bright lights of the big city, as well as the effervescent glow of the Northern Lights, will find that Fairbanks is easily one of the most romantic Alaska destinations. Home to more than 100,000 local residents, Fairbanks is the second-largest city in Alaska, which means that it has plenty of amenities for couples who want to indulge in luxury while simultaneously exploring the wilds of Alaska.
Fairbanks is considered the gateway to Denali National Park, which is the first place that many couples staying in Fairbanks choose to visit. During your time in Denali, you can take a guided Denali Hike Tour or enjoy an adventurous Denali Rafting Wilderness Wave white-water rafting excursion. For a bird's eye view of Denali, book a thrilling Denali Park Zipline Adventure.
Couples who choose to visit Fairbanks from mid-April through mid-August will enjoy the Midnight Sun Season. During this time of year, the sun never seems to set in Alaska and local residents take full advantage of the endless sunshine. Even in the middle of the night, you will find people hiking and biking through Fairbanks. To fully appreciate this eternal sunshine, consider dining at The Pump House Restaurant & Saloon, which is housed in a former tin pump house that was used during the gold mining era and features views of the Chena River. The restaurant has a glassed-in dining room as well as a spacious deck, making it the perfect place to experience the Midnight Sun.
If you happen to be visiting Fairbanks from the end of August until the beginning of April, you will be arriving during prime Northern Lights season. While you may be able to see the glimmering Northern Lights from your hotel, you might find that an Arctic Circle and Northern Lights Tour provides you with more success.
3. Hatcher Pass, Alaska
- Where to stay: Sheraton Anchorage Hotel, 401 E 6th Ave, Anchorage, AK, 99501
- What to do in Hatcher Pass: Visit Independence Mine State Historical Park, hiking in the summer, snowshoeing in the winter.
- What makes Hatcher Pass romantic? Best for couples in search of a rugged landscape, Hatcher Pass offers excellent hiking and panoramic mountain views.
Alaska is a natural wonderland that appeals to adventurers, but some of the more popular tourist areas can become crowded and difficult to navigate. Couples who are looking for a bit of peace and privacy while they explore the pristine beauty of this state will love Hatcher Pass.
Described as an alpine paradise, Hatcher Pass is situated in the valley of the Talkeetna Mountains. Throughout the entire year, couples who visit Hatcher Pass can enjoy a wide range of activities, including berry picking and hiking in the summer and snowshoeing and skiing in the winter.
No trip to Hatcher Pass would be complete without a visit to Independence Mine State Historical Park, which is home to a historic gold mine. In the summer, couples can take a guided tour of the park in order to learn more about the mining town that operated here from the 1930s to the 1950s. In addition, this park boasts some of the most spectacular views of Hatcher Pass.
A stay near Hatcher Pass will be both rustic and romantic and some couples seek lodging in the spartan A-frame cabins that can be found throughout the pass. Yurts and other unique accommodations are also available nearby and hotels in Anchorage are located about an hour away from Hatcher Pass.
4. Sitka, Alaska
- Where to stay: Westmark Sita, 330 Seward St, Sitka, AK 99835
- What to do in Sitka: Explore Sitka National Historical Park, visit the Alaska Raptor Center, experience the beauty of a Tlingit native dance.
- What makes Sitka romantic? Providing an authentic Alaskan coastal adventure, Sitka offers Pacific Ocean views and an unparalleled cultural experience.
Located on the Inside Passage, Sitka is the only town in this area that features Pacific Ocean views. Preferred by couples in search of an authentic and immersive romantic getaway, Sitka is famous for its Tlingit culture and its commitment to preserving the history of the people who have long called this region home.
There are few other locations for couples in Alaska that offer both the cultural charm and natural beauty of Sitka. Most couples begin their stay by spending a day in Downtown Sitka, where they can enjoy shopping at boutiques, viewing art galleries and dining at some of the most delicious restaurants in the state. Earning a AAA Three Diamond Rating, the Channel Club is an excellent fine dining choice for those who are indulging in a luxurious and romantic getaway in Alaska. Having been a staple in the Sitka community since 1956, every seat in this restaurant features views of the bay.
For the full Sitka experience, consider booking the Simply Sitka Tour. This small and intimate tour is led by a local guide and will take you to the top three attractions in Sitka — the Fortress of the Bear, the Alaska Raptor and the Totems.
Sitka is also known as a playground for marine wildlife, making this one of the best places in Alaska for whale watching. Couples who want to witness the beauty and grandeur of these majestic marine animals should book the 2-Hour Marine Wildlife Tour in Sitka, which is offered by a local tour company that has been introducing people to the community for decades.
5. Girdwood, Alaska
- Where to stay: Alyeska Resort, 1000 Arlberg Ave, Girdwood, AK 99587
- What to do in Girdwood: Ride the Alyeska Tram, Pan for gold at the Crow Creek Mine, hike the Winner Creek Trail, ski in the winter.
- What makes Girdwood romantic? After a refreshing and energizing day on the slopes, couples can relax in the evening together by the fireside in a cozy cabin-like atmosphere.
As Alaska's only resort town, Girdwood is easily one of the most romantic Alaska destinations. Anchored by the AAA Three Diamond Alyeska Resort, Girdwood is often blanketed in snow and provides couples with a chance to stay warm and cozy inside a charming cabin. No trip to Girdwood would be complete without a ride on the Alyeska Tram, which takes visitors more than 2,300 feet into the air to the summit of Mount Alyeska.
Once you arrive on the mountaintop, you can enjoy an unparalleled fine dining experience at Seven Glaciers Restaurant, which is a AAA Four Diamond-designated luxury restaurant that offers views of the mighty Seven Glaciers below. For the most romantic experience or if you are looking for an idyllic proposal spot, book a table after sunset to enjoy Northern Lights views as you dine on artfully crafted, Alaskan-inspired meals.
Plan Your Romantic Trip to Alaska with AAA
Join the over a million people who are AAA members and start planning your romantic trip to Alaska today. Dream up the perfect trip with our Trip Canvas research tool and use your membership to get the best discounts on hotels, rental cars and entertainment tickets.