Kotzebue AlaskaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Kotzebue, Alaska.
1. Northwest Arctic Heritage Center
GATEWAY TO ARCTIC PARKS
The Northwest Arctic Heritage Center serves as the primary visitor center for the Western Arctic National Parklands. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits about the region's natural and cultural history and get information on visiting nearby national parks and preserves. The center also hosts educational programs and provides resources for planning outdoor adventures in northwest Alaska.
2. Noatak National Preserve
UNTOUCHED ARCTIC WILDERNESS
Noatak National Preserve offers pristine wilderness with opportunities for rafting, hiking, and wildlife viewing in a landscape untouched by roads. The preserve protects the entire Noatak River watershed, one of North America's largest undisturbed river basins. Its remote beauty is accessible mainly by charter flights from Kotzebue.
3. Kobuk Valley National Park
HOME OF THE GREAT SAND DUNES
Kobuk Valley National Park is renowned for the massive and unexpected Great Kobuk Sand Dunes, as well as migrating caribou herds. The park's 1.7 million acres offer challenging outdoor adventures, including backpacking, camping, and river excursions. Access is remote, with Kotzebue serving as the main gateway for visitors.
4. Cape Krusenstern National Monument
ANCIENT CULTURAL SITES
Cape Krusenstern National Monument protects a series of beach ridges holding one of Alaska's richest concentrations of archaeological sites. The area is important for understanding the long human history of the region, with evidence of more than 5,000 years of settlement. Outdoor activities include hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the unique Arctic landscape.
5. Qikiqtaġruk (Kotzebue Sound)
INUPIAT HERITAGE AND VIEWS
Qikiqtaġruk, the Inupiat name for Kotzebue, is a hub for learning about Native culture and the rich subsistence traditions of the area. The waterfront offers stunning views of Kotzebue Sound, especially at sunrise and sunset. Guided community walking tours often start here, introducing visitors to the town's history and Inupiat heritage.
6. Kotzebue Rotary Park
SCENIC LOCAL GATHERING SPOT
Kotzebue Rotary Park is a popular spot for locals and visitors to relax and enjoy views of the sound. The park features picnic areas, informational signage, and a boardwalk for leisurely strolls. It's an excellent place to witness the midnight sun or northern lights, depending on the season.
7. Serpentine Hot Springs
NATURAL HOT SPRING RETREAT
Serpentine Hot Springs is located in the Bering Land Bridge National Preserve, accessible by charter from Kotzebue. Visitors can soak in natural hot mineral waters surrounded by dramatic granite tors in a remote Arctic setting. The site is popular for both its recreational and cultural significance to local Indigenous peoples.
8. Arctic Backcountry Flying Service
FLIGHTSEEING & ARCTIC ACCESS
Arctic Backcountry Flying Service offers chartered flights for sightseeing, transportation into national parks, and wildlife viewing. Experienced local pilots provide unique aerial perspectives of the vast Arctic landscapes surrounding Kotzebue. This service is essential for accessing remote attractions such as the Kobuk Sand Dunes and Noatak River.
9. Nullagvik Hotel Restaurant
DINING WITH A VIEW
The Nullagvik Hotel Restaurant is a local favorite, serving a mix of Alaska Regional cuisine and American classics. Diners enjoy panoramic windows overlooking Kotzebue Sound, making it a perfect spot to relax after a day of exploring. The restaurant is known for its welcoming atmosphere and local hospitality.
10. AC Value Center
ESSENTIAL SHOPPING HUB
AC Value Center is the primary grocery and general goods store in Kotzebue, catering to both residents and travelers. The store offers a selection of groceries, clothing, and outdoor supplies needed for Arctic adventures. It's also a gathering place for the community and an interesting spot to observe daily life in Kotzebue.
11. Sound Freeze
ICE CREAM & TREATS
Sound Freeze is a beloved local ice cream shop offering hand-dipped and soft serve treats. The shop is a hit with both children and adults, especially during the long summer days. It provides a sweet stop for visitors looking to experience small-town Alaska hospitality.
12. Arctic Native Brotherhood Hall
COMMUNITY EVENTS CENTER
The Arctic Native Brotherhood Hall is a significant cultural and gathering place for the Inupiat community. The hall frequently hosts dances, celebrations, and public meetings, offering visitors a chance to witness local traditions. It's a cornerstone for cultural preservation and social life in Kotzebue.
13. Baldwin Peninsula Tundra Hikes
ARCTIC FLORA AND ADVENTURE
Baldwin Peninsula offers miles of undeveloped tundra perfect for hiking and exploring Arctic flora and wildlife. Guided hikes are available in summer, providing insights on local plants, birds, and traditional subsistence practices. It's an opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts to experience the vastness and fragility of the Arctic landscape.
14. Northwest Alaska Areas
REGIONAL EXPLORATION GATEWAY
Northwest Alaska Areas encompass various outdoor recreational opportunities, including fishing, birding, and winter sports. The region is famed for its striking natural beauty and accessibility to remote wilderness. Many visitors use Kotzebue as a launching point for broader adventures in northwest Alaska.
15. Tundra Tours Gifts & Souvenirs
LOCAL SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
Tundra Tours Gifts & Souvenirs offers a selection of locally made crafts, artwork, and unique gifts. Visitors can find handcrafted items that reflect the culture and natural beauty of northwest Alaska. It's an ideal place to purchase mementos and support local artisans.