St. George AlaskaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near St. George, Alaska.
1. Northern Fur Seal Rookeries
WILDLIFE VIEWING PARADISE
The Northern Fur Seal Rookeries on St. George Island are home to tens of thousands of fur seals that can be observed clamoring on the beaches. These rookeries are part of the vast fur seal population of the Pribilof Islands, which numbers well over a million. Visitors can witness these magnificent marine mammals in their natural habitat, making it a must-see wildlife experience.
2. St. George Island Cliffs
MAJESTIC COASTAL FORMATIONS
St. George Island Cliffs rise dramatically over one thousand feet from the rocky shoreline below, creating a stunning volcanic landscape. These steep cliffs provide nesting grounds for numerous seabird species, making them a prime location for birdwatching. The panoramic views from these towering formations offer breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Bering Sea.
3. St. George Village
HISTORIC ALEUT COMMUNITY
St. George Village is a small community of approximately 160 Aleuts that maintains its unique cultural heritage. The village offers visitors a glimpse into Aleut/Russian history and traditional ways of life that have been only lightly touched by modern influences. Walking through the village provides an authentic cultural experience in one of North America's most remote inhabited locations.
4. Seal Islands Historic District
CULTURAL HERITAGE SITE
The Seal Islands Historic District is a National Historic Landmark that encompasses both St. Paul and St. George Islands with outstanding historical significance. The district preserves the rich history related to industry, conservation, and ethnic heritage in the Pribilof Islands. Visitors can explore various historical sites that tell the story of the islands' unique past and cultural importance.
5. St. George Island Volcanic Beaches
PRISTINE COASTAL BEAUTY
St. George Island Volcanic Beaches feature miles of sandy shores formed by the island's volcanic origins. These beaches offer excellent beachcombing opportunities and fascinating tide pools teeming with marine life. Visitors can explore the shoreline, observe unique geological formations, and even sample fresh sea urchin from the tide pools.
6. Wildflower Tundra Fields
FLORAL SUMMER SPECTACLE
The Wildflower Tundra Fields of St. George Island burst with color during the summer months, covering the treeless landscape with a multitude of blooms. These lush fields create a striking contrast against the volcanic terrain and coastal cliffs. Hiking through these vibrant meadows offers photographers and nature lovers an unforgettable experience in the remote Bering Sea.
7. Birdwatching Cliffs
SEABIRD NESTING COLONIES
The Birdwatching Cliffs of St. George Island host myriads of seabirds that migrate to the Pribilof Islands each summer. These cliffs provide nesting habitat for numerous species, making the island comparable to the Galapagos for its abundance of bird life. Birders and wildlife enthusiasts can observe these massive colonies in one of North America's premier birdwatching destinations.
8. St. George Island Cultural Center
ALEUT HERITAGE SHOWCASE
St. George Island Cultural Center preserves and celebrates the unique Aleut and Russian heritage of the Pribilof Islands. The center features exhibits on traditional practices, historical artifacts, and the story of the island's indigenous people. Visitors can learn about the cultural significance of the island and its importance to Aleut history.
9. St. George Orthodox Church
HISTORIC RUSSIAN ORTHODOX CHURCH
St. George Orthodox Church stands as a testament to the Russian influence on the Pribilof Islands. The church features traditional Russian Orthodox architecture and houses religious artifacts that date back generations. Visitors can admire the distinctive onion domes and learn about the important role the Orthodox faith has played in the island's history.
10. Tanaq General Store
ISLAND PROVISIONS & SOUVENIRS
Tanaq General Store serves as the main shopping venue on St. George Island, offering essential supplies and unique local souvenirs. The store stocks everything from groceries to handcrafted Aleut art pieces made by island residents. Visitors can purchase authentic mementos of their journey to one of Alaska's most remote communities.
11. Island Cafe
LOCAL SEAFOOD & CUISINE
Island Cafe provides hearty meals featuring fresh-caught seafood from the surrounding Bering Sea waters. The cafe specializes in traditional Aleut dishes alongside contemporary Alaskan cuisine. Visitors can taste unique local specialties while enjoying the warm hospitality of this remote island community.
12. Dutch Harbor Naval Operating Base
WWII HISTORIC SITE
Dutch Harbor Naval Operating Base and Fort Mears is a National Historic Landmark located in the nearby Aleutian region. This historic military installation played a crucial role during World War II as part of America's western defense. Visitors can explore the remains of this important base and learn about the Aleutian campaign of WWII.
13. Church of the Holy Ascension
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS LANDMARK
The Church of the Holy Ascension is a National Historic Landmark in the Aleutian Islands near St. George. This beautifully preserved Russian Orthodox church features traditional architecture and historic religious artifacts. Visitors can admire the distinctive design and learn about the religious heritage of the Aleutian region.
14. Sitka Spruce Plantation
UNIQUE FOREST LANDMARK
The Sitka Spruce Plantation is a National Historic Landmark that represents a unique forest cultivation effort in the largely treeless Aleutian landscape. This distinctive plantation stands out in stark contrast to the surrounding tundra environment. Visitors can walk among these rare trees and learn about their historical significance to the region.
15. Anangula Archaeological Site
ANCIENT SETTLEMENT REMAINS
The Anangula Archaeological Site is one of the earliest known human settlements in the Aleutian Islands region near St. George. This National Historic Landmark provides invaluable insights into the ancient peoples who first inhabited this remote region thousands of years ago. Visitors interested in archaeology can learn about the discoveries that have shaped our understanding of early Aleutian cultures.