Kodiak AlaskaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Kodiak, Alaska.
1. Fort Abercrombie State Historical Park
HISTORIC MILITARY SITE
Fort Abercrombie State Historical Park is a top-rated attraction in Kodiak Island offering visitors a glimpse into the area's military history. The park features beautiful coastal views, hiking trails, and World War II-era military installations that visitors can explore. Nature and history enthusiasts will appreciate the combination of scenic landscapes and historical significance this park offers.
2. Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center
WILDLIFE EDUCATION HUB
The Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center provides information about local wildlife, the island, and its natural history. Visitors can admire an impressive whale skeleton and learn detailed information about salmon and other native species. The center serves as a gateway to understanding the 2,812-square-mile refuge that encompasses two-thirds of Kodiak Island.
3. Kodiak Island Brewing Company
LOCAL CRAFT BEER
Kodiak Island Brewing Company is a highly-rated brewery offering locally crafted beers in a charming atmosphere. Travelers frequently praise the brewery for its unique vibe and quality brews, making it a must-visit for beer enthusiasts. The establishment provides a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy Alaskan craft beer after a day of exploring the island.
4. Kodiak Laboratory Aquarium & Touch Tank
INTERACTIVE MARINE LIFE
The Kodiak Laboratory Aquarium & Touch Tank offers visitors a hands-on experience with local marine life. The touch tank is especially popular with children, allowing them to interact with various sea creatures. The facility also provides interesting information about Kodiak's fisheries, making it both an educational and entertaining attraction.
5. Holy Resurrection Cathedral
HISTORIC RUSSIAN ORTHODOX CHURCH
Holy Resurrection Cathedral stands as a testament to Kodiak's Russian heritage and Orthodox religious influence. The cathedral features distinctive onion domes and houses valuable icons and religious artifacts that reflect Alaska's Russian past. Visitors can appreciate both the architectural beauty and the cultural significance of this historic religious site.
6. Fossil Beach
PREHISTORIC MARINE DISCOVERIES
Fossil Beach is a fascinating geological site where visitors can discover ancient marine fossils along the shoreline. The beach offers a unique opportunity to connect with prehistoric life while enjoying the natural beauty of Kodiak's coastline. Beachcombers and amateur paleontologists alike will enjoy searching for fossilized remnants of creatures that lived millions of years ago.
7. Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge
PRISTINE WILDERNESS HAVEN
The Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge encompasses nearly two-thirds of Kodiak Island and protects diverse wildlife including the famous Kodiak brown bears. This vast 2,812-square-mile sanctuary is home to all six species of Pacific salmon and more than 250 species of birds. Outdoor enthusiasts can experience pristine wilderness through hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography throughout the refuge.
8. Alutiiq Museum
NATIVE CULTURAL HERITAGE
The Alutiiq Museum preserves and shares the heritage and culture of the indigenous Alutiiq people of the Kodiak region. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring traditional artifacts, art, and historical displays that tell the story of these native Alaskans. The museum offers insight into the rich cultural traditions that have shaped life on Kodiak Island for thousands of years.
9. Kodiak Bear Viewing
ICONIC WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS
Kodiak Bear Viewing offers visitors the chance to observe the island's famous brown bears in their natural habitat. These guided experiences typically take place during salmon runs when bears gather at streams and rivers to feed. Witnessing these magnificent creatures, which are among the largest bears in the world, is considered one of the most memorable wildlife experiences in Alaska.
10. Kodiak History Museum
ISLAND'S CULTURAL TIMELINE
The Kodiak History Museum chronicles the rich and diverse history of Kodiak Island from prehistoric times to the present day. Exhibits cover native Alutiiq culture, Russian colonization, the devastating 1964 tsunami, and the island's fishing industry. The museum provides a comprehensive look at the forces and events that have shaped this unique Alaskan community.
11. Women's Bay
SCENIC COASTAL RETREAT
Women's Bay is a picturesque inlet offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and waters around Kodiak Island. Visitors can enjoy beachcombing, photography, and wildlife watching in this tranquil coastal setting. The bay provides excellent opportunities to spot marine mammals, seabirds, and sometimes even bears along the shoreline.
12. Kodiak Military History Museum
WWII DEFENSE LEGACY
The Kodiak Military History Museum showcases the island's significant role during World War II and the Cold War. Located within Fort Abercrombie State Historical Park, the museum features military artifacts, photographs, and personal accounts from those stationed on the island. Visitors will gain insight into how this remote Alaskan outpost became a crucial defensive position in the North Pacific.
13. Kodiak Flightseeing Tours
AERIAL ISLAND ADVENTURES
Kodiak Flightseeing Tours offer breathtaking aerial views of the island's diverse landscapes, from rugged mountains to pristine beaches. These tours provide access to remote areas of Kodiak that are otherwise difficult or impossible to reach by land. Passengers frequently spot wildlife such as bears, whales, and eagles while gaining a unique perspective on the island's vast wilderness.
14. Mill Bay Beach
ACCESSIBLE SHORELINE ESCAPE
Mill Bay Beach is a popular local spot for beachcombing, picnicking, and enjoying Kodiak's natural beauty. The beach offers easy access to tide pools where visitors can observe small marine creatures during low tide. Spectacular views of surrounding mountains and the possibility of spotting wildlife make this a favorite relaxation spot for both locals and tourists.
15. Kodiak Island Farmers Market
LOCAL PRODUCE AND CRAFTS
The Kodiak Island Farmers Market brings together local growers, artisans, and food producers in a community-centered shopping experience. Visitors can browse fresh produce, handcrafted items, baked goods, and other locally made products while meeting island residents. The market provides insight into Kodiak's local food culture and artistic community while offering unique souvenirs and gifts.