Since Alaska features such an expansive and rustic landscape, it's no wonder that its development and growth owes much to the field of aviation. The Alaska Aviation Museum documents the role that aviation has played in the state's history and growth from 1897 up to the present day. You'll see exhibits and attractions that tell the story of Alaska's WWII fliers, early bush pilots, as well as efforts to preserve vintage aircraft. The museum is located at the largest seaplane facility in the world, and all that space affords the presentation of scale models, restored planes and even a theater that presents films on the various aircraft.
The Anchorage Folk Festival is held every January and is an impressive showcase for local, regional and national talent. Folk songs often tell the tale of the triumph of the human spirit, and nearly everyone in Anchorage and the surrounding areas can relate to overcoming challenges to find a better way of life. In addition to performances on the main stage, there are also interesting workshops, dances and late night jams on the schedule of events.
Getting into nature's beauty is one thing, but being a part of its very real adventure is something that you can experience by braving the elements on a Nova Raft and Adventure Tour. Nova has been leading rafting trips since 1975, and that distinction makes them Alaska's most experienced wilderness guide company. And it really doesn't matter if you prefer to brave the unrelenting white water or choose instead to paddle along, Nova has a trip that's perfect for you. The daytrip packages are usually four or five hours, and some include glacier hikes. Special overnight excursions are also available.
When you visit Alaska, the wildlife will seem like it's everywhere! To familiarize yourself with your new surroundings, a visit to the Alaska Zoo might be in order. You'll marvel at the incredible diversity of creatures as well as how accurately they represent the animals you might encounter as you spend time in the state. The large viewing area features such popular zoo inhabitants as caribou, moose and Dall sheep grazing along together. Also, one of the zoo's most dramatic attractions is the 25-acre bear habitat where you'll see black bears, glacier bears, and brown bears, also known as grizzlies. Some of the zoo's other more notable inhabitants include a few camels, a Siberian tiger and an elephant that has the distinction of being the only one in the entire state!