Alaska isn’t just for thrill-seeking adventurers — it’s a giant playground for kids and families. If you’ve ever wondered whether an Alaska trip with kids is realistic or rewarding, the answer is a resounding yes! And when you stay with Princess Lodges, planning your family-friendly Alaska getaway becomes not just possible: it becomes effortless.

Alaska offers magical moments for every generation. Here’s how to create a fun, safe and unforgettable family adventure with Princess Lodges as your home base.

Top Things to Do in Alaska with Kids

1. Sled Dog Kennel Visits

Photo Credit: ©State of Alaska/Michael DeYoung

What kid (or adult!) can resist meeting Alaska puppies? Many Princess Lodges, like the Copper River Princess Wilderness Lodge, offer excursions where your family can see dog demonstrations, learn about mushing culture and even cuddle puppies.

For extra fun, opt for a summer sled dog cart ride. It’s safe for children and the gentle pace gives a taste of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race excitement without the chill. These experiences are not only entertaining but educational. Your family can gain a real appreciation for Alaska’s sled dog history.

2. Earn Your Junior Ranger Badge

Photo Credit: Travel Alaska

Some of the best family activities in Denali include the Junior Ranger badge program and a walk along the Savage River Loop trail,  both easy to access from Denali Princess Lodge. Both Denali National Park and Wrangell-St. Elias National Park offer Junior Ranger programs perfect for curious kids. Your young explorers can participate in guided activities, complete fun workbooks and earn their official Junior Ranger badge — a souvenir they’ll proudly show off.

3. Easy Nature Hikes for Little Legs

Photo Credit: Travel Alaska

Exploring Alaska’s landscapes doesn’t require intense backcountry treks. Families can enjoy easy, kid-friendly trails like:

• Savage River Loop in Denali: a 2-mile scenic walk with flat terrain, perfect for all ages
• Kenai Nature Walks near Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge: gentle strolls with a chance to spot eagles, moose and more.
• Creamer’s Field near Fairbanks Princess Riverside Lodge: a nature reserve with flat walking paths and frequent bird sightings.
• Byers Lake Trail near McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge: a peaceful loop around a lake with views of Denali, ideal for strollers and young hikers.

Strollers work on many lodge paths, and our staff can recommend the best trails for your family’s needs.

4. Gold Panning Fun for All Ages

Photo credit: ©State of Alaska/Matt Hage

Channel your inner prospector with gold panning adventures available near both Fairbanks Princess Riverside Lodge and Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge. In Fairbanks, families can visit authentic gold camps to try their hand at panning, with guaranteed take-home flakes for kids. Near the Mt. McKinley Lodge, historical gold mining sites offer hands-on demonstrations where kids learn about the gold rush era and get their hands dirty in the process. It’s always a hit!

5. Wildlife Cruises and Riverboat Adventures

Photo credit: Neal Alfano Miles Partnership

Alaska’s wildlife feels like it leapt off the pages of a storybook. From near Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge, enjoy a family-friendly wildlife cruise in Kenai Fjords National Park to see whales, sea otters, puffins and more. The calm fjord waters are perfect for kids, and the boats offer heated cabins and snacks.

Or, hop aboard a riverboat tour near Fairbanks for a laid-back day with animal sightings and cultural stops. These child-friendly Alaska tours are designed with comfort, safety and excitement in mind — ideal for little explorers and their grown-ups alike.

6. Campfire Nights and S’mores Under the Midnight Sun

You don’t have to make it to midnight to enjoy the late-night sunlight. With broad daylight until 10 p.m. or later, evenings in Alaska are perfect for gathering the family around a fire pit to roast marshmallows, share stories and soak up some vitamin D. Many Princess Lodges feature outdoor gathering areas with fire pits, making it easy to unwind after a day of adventure. It’s a simple and memorable way to experience Alaska with kids, one that grandparents, parents and little ones alike will cherish.

7. Alaska-Themed Arts and Crafts

Some Princess Lodges offer craft nights where families can create their own Alaska souvenirs. This calm indoor option is one the whole family will enjoy, perfect for winding down after dinner.

8. Scenic Photography Walks for Budding Photographers

Photo Credit: ©State of Alaska/Michael DeYoung

Teens and preteens with a love for social media or photography will enjoy guided photo walks. Trails near Denali, Kenai and Mt. McKinley Lodges offer sweeping views, wildflowers and chances to spot wildlife. It’s a great way to encourage creativity and let kids document their Alaska trip through their own lens.

9. Berry Picking and Nature Scavenger Hunts

During berry season in the fall, kids can safely forage for wild blueberries and salmonberries near lodge paths with guidance. Always double-check berries are edible before consuming. Some Princess Lodges also offer printable nature scavenger hunt checklists so your little explorers can look for bear tracks, pine cones, eagles and more.

10. Cultural Experiences and Indigenous Storytelling

Photo Credit: ©’Wáats’asdiyei Joe Yates / Alaskan Films

Families can enjoy cultural presentations and storytelling sessions near the lodges. These events introduce kids to Alaska Native traditions, legends and dances in an engaging and interactive way. They not only entertain but educate, making this one of the most enriching child-friendly Alaska activities.

Check out these cultural education centers near Princess Lodges:

• Morris Thompson Cultural Center in Fairbanks (admission is free).
• Museum of the North in Fairbanks (discounted youth tickets available, children five and under enter free).
• Seward Museum (children under 12 enter free).
• Valdez Museum (children 13 and under enter free).
• Denali Visitor Center
• Wrangell-St. Elias Visitor Center
• Ahtna Cultural Center in Copper Center, next to the Wrangell-St. Elias Visitor Center.

Family-Friendly Amenities That Make Life Easy

At Princess Lodges, we understand that traveling with kids comes with logistics, and we’ve got it covered:

• Spacious family rooms and adjoining cabins allow everyone to sleep comfortably.
• On-site restaurants feature kids’ menus, high chairs and family seating.

Most importantly, many of these activities depart directly from the lodges or nearby, which eliminates transportation stress and maximizes quality time together.

Fun for All Ages

Alaska with kids doesn’t mean leaving Grandma and Grandpa behind. In fact, it’s the perfect destination for multi-generational bonding.

With so many gentle, inclusive activities and a relaxing pace, everyone from toddlers to great-grandparents can enjoy their own kind of adventure.

Insider Tips for Traveling Alaska with Kids

• Layers are key! Weather can shift quickly, so pack clothes that can be added or removed easily.
• Sunscreen is essential. Alaska’s long days and midnight sun mean hours of exposure. Many visitors are surprised by the intensity of the sun! Reapply throughout your outdoor adventure to stay protected.
• Watch out for “Alaska’s state bird.” Is it a bird? Is it a plane? Actually, it’s just a mosquito! Mosquitoes in the 49th state are truly Alaska-sized — and they can be persistent. Be sure to prepare with bug spray before heading outside.
• Snacks are your best friend. Our on-site stores offer grab-and-go kid-friendly snacks but packing a few favorites from home is always smart.
• Baby carriers work best for trails but strollers are fine for lodge grounds and town strolls.
• Book early. Alaska’s short summer season means tours fill up fast. Booking activities early through Princess Lodges helps secure your spot and avoid disappointment.

Plan the Ultimate Alaska Trip with Kids

Traveling to Alaska with kids doesn’t mean scaling mountains or roughing it in tents – it means awe-inspiring wildlife, hands-on history and memory-making moments tailored to all ages. Princess Lodges provides the perfect setting for your family’s next great adventure.

For more budget-friendly ideas, don’t miss our roundup: 15 Free Activities for Kids in Alaska

Let us help you craft an Alaska trip with kids that’s full of joy, comfort and unforgettable discoveries. Visit our specials page to check for any seasonal promotions.

Plan your trip today!