After a slight detour and a change of scenery, the wait is over!
After a slight detour and a change of scenery, the wait is over!
For a fun, family-friendly outing, we highly recommend the Palmer Reindeer Farm. It’s a great way to get up close to Alaska’s unique wildlife, especially the friendly reindeer! You can feed and pet them, plus interact with other animals like moose and elk. There are also guided hayrides that offer a relaxing way to explore the farm and enjoy the surrounding scenery—perfect for both kids and adults. The farm is an easy drive from Wasilla, and it’s set up to be accessible for guests of all ages, with walking paths and plenty of benches to take breaks. It’s a wonderful way to experience a bit of Alaska’s nature and charm without too much physical exertion! You can also shop for handmade souvenirs and reindeer-themed gifts, making it a memorable stop.
One of our favorite spots, and where Andrew actually proposed, is Independence Mine in Hatcher Pass. It’s a historic gold mine with stunning mountain views and easy access for all ages. You can explore the preserved buildings and learn about Alaska's gold rush history, or simply enjoy the beautiful scenery. The drive up to the mine is gorgeous, and once you’re there, it’s a perfect place for a quick walk or a peaceful spot to take in the views. It’s a wonderful, low-effort way to experience Alaska’s beauty and a special place for us!
A beautiful spot we love to visit is Reflection Lake, located along the Glenn Highway, just a short drive from Palmer. It’s known for its stunning views, with the mountains perfectly reflecting off the lake's calm waters. It's an easy, accessible stop for guests of all ages—whether you want to take in the scenery, snap some photos, or just enjoy a moment of peace. It’s a quiet, scenic place that perfectly captures Alaska’s beauty, and we can’t wait for you to experience it!
If you're in town on a Friday, you’ve got to check out the Friday Fling in Palmer. It’s a local event with food trucks, live music, and vendors that really gives you a taste of the community. We enjoy stopping by to grab some food, listen to the bands, and see what the local artisans are selling. It’s a fun way to spend the evening and get a feel for Palmer’s vibe.
About 2.5 hours north of Wasilla, Denali State Park is a great place to spend the day. It offers stunning views of Denali, the tallest mountain in North America, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy Alaska’s wilderness. Whether you want to hike, fish, or simply sit back and take in the scenery, it’s a peaceful spot to escape to. The park has easy trails for a leisurely stroll or more challenging ones for a bit of adventure. It's a great place to spot wildlife and get a real feel for Alaska’s outdoors without venturing too far.
In Anchorage, you'll find a couple of popular spots to check out, like Moose’s Tooth Pub & Pizzeria and 49th State Brewing. Both are known for their great food and craft beers, and they're perfect for a relaxed meal after a day of exploring. If you're into shopping, downtown Anchorage offers a mix of unique boutiques and well-known retail shops.
For a bit of family fun, the Alaska Zoo is also in Anchorage, where you can see local wildlife and learn more about Alaskan animals. Whether you're eating, shopping, or spending time with the family, Anchorage has something for everyone!