Alaska

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.

Near Little Port Walter in Southeast Alaska

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 Aviation Heritage Museum in Anchorage: This is a museum dedicated to the state's aviation heritage, and is home to 21 vintage aircraft.
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:

Attractions
Places of interest in Alaska.
Calendars
Calendars of Alaska
Camping
Camping in Alaska
Cycling
Cycling in Alaska
Fishing
Fishing in Alaska
Flag
Information about the flag of Alaska. (Pictures of the flag of Alaska)
General Information
General information about the state including population, symbols, etc.
Guide Books
Guide books containing travel information for Alaska.
Hiking
Hiking in Alaska
History
History books and information for the state.
Maps
Maps of Alaska.
Posters
Posters of Alaska.
Skiing
Information about skiing for Alaska.
Towns and Cities
Towns and cities in Alaska.