Alaska is a U.S. state located in the Northwest
of North America. It is, by far, the largest state in area, but one of the least
populated (47th out of 50). Although part of the North America continent,
about 500 miles (800 kilometers) of Canadian territory separate
Alaska from the contiguous U.S.
Alaska is one of the richest states in the Union when measured on a per capita basis
(3rd in
2005).
The economy is primarily based on natural resource extraction (including
petroleum, natural gas, coal, gold, other precious metals and zinc), although
seafood is also an important export from the state.
Given its great size, Alaska is relatively sparsely populated, with a total
population of under 700,000. Nevertheless, there are some
cities and towns in Alaska,
including the state capital Juneau, and the largest
and best known city, Anchorage.
If you enjoy the outdoor-life, there are of course plenty of suitable
activities in the state. There are also many
exciting places to visit,
including:
Alaska Zoo
in Anchorage:
Alaska Zoo is home to a large collection of birds and animals, including
animals native to the state as well as more exotic creatures
such as camels, yaks, tigers and even elephants.
Anchorage Museum of History & Art
in Anchorage:
The Anchorage Museum of History & Art is a world-class museum which
preserves and exhibits the history and art of the state.
Elmendorf State Hatchery
in Anchorage:
Operated by the state's fish and game department,
the state hatchery produces salmon and trout for sport-fishing and
offers a viewing area.
H2Oasis Indoor Waterpark
in Anchorage:
H2Oasis is an indoor waterpark that features rides, a wave pool,
a water coaster, and even a 150 feet long body-slide.
Juneau Trolley Car Company
in Juneau:
Why not go for a trolley ride around the state capital?
The Juneau Trolley company offers a narrated tour of downtown
Juneau, stopping at 13 points of interest.
Mount Roberts Tramway
in Juneau:
Also in Juneau is this impressive aerial tramway that
goes from the docks to a height of 1,800 feet. At the top of the tramway
is a restaurant, theater and nature center, as well as shops and
walking trails leading to the top of Mount Roberts.
Pioneer Park
in Fairbanks:
Previously known as "Alaskaland", Pioneer Park is a 44 acre amusement park
which celebrates Alaskan history. The park includes many restored historical
buildings as well as other points of interest.
St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church
in Juneau:
This impressive
Russian Orthodox Church exhibits some of Alaska's Russian heritage.
The Church which features a large gold dome and also offers a gift shop,
was built in 1894 and has been in continuous use ever
since.
The Imaginarium: Science Discovery Center
in Anchorage:
The Imaginarium is a science museum with a difference. It's
a hands-on learning center where you can have fun learning about science by actually doing science.
The principal airport in Alaska is Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport which is in Anchorage.
The following pages contain more detailed information about Alaska:
