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Jacksonville, FL Travel Agent· 4 Years of Experience
Black Diamond Travels, an independent agent with Cornerstone Collective dba Cornerstone Travel, a Travel Leaders Network Affiliate Agency
11 reviews
100% Recommended
4 Years of Experience
5.0
(11)
100% Recommended
I enjoyed my first cruise on the Margaritaville ship. It was so much fun. Chris was always available to answer any questions that I had. He... Read More >
COUNTRIES VISITED:Alaska, British Columbia
PLACES VISITED:Anchorage, College Fjord, Denali National Park, Glacier Bay, Juneau, Ketchikan, Skagway, Talkeetna, Vancouver, Whittier
SUGGESTED DURATION:11 Days
Discover the ultimate 10-night Alaska family vacation blending adventure, culture, and stunning natural beauty. Start with immersive land experiences in Anchorage, Talkeetna, and Denali National Park, featuring scenic train rides, wildlife tours, and hands-on cultural activities perfect for all ages. Then embark on a scenic cruise through Alaska’s iconic Inside Passage, visiting ports like Skagway, Juneau, and Ketchikan. Enjoy family-friendly excursions such as glacier hikes, historic railway rides, whale watching, and totem park visits. This thoughtfully curated itinerary balances exciting adventures with downtime to connect and relax. With expert planning and personalized service, your family will experience Alaska’s wonders comfortably and memorably—from land to sea.
Close All Days
DAY1
Anchorage
Close Day
Arrival in Anchorage, Alaska (Overnight Stay)
Check-in: Hotel Captain Cook or Marriott Anchorage Downtown
Explore the Anchorage Museum or the Alaska Native Heritage Center
Family dinner with local halibut or reindeer sausage
HIGHLIGHTS:
Take a leisurely stroll or bike ride along a portion of the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail for stunning
DAY2
Talkeetna
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Anchorage ? Talkeetna (Train Transfer or Motorcoach)
Scenic rail or coach ride through the Alaskan wilderness
Optional flightseeing tour around Denali (weather permitting)
Overnight Stay: Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge
S’mores by the firepit with views of Denali (Mount McKinley)
HIGHLIGHTS:
Stroll down historic Main Street in Talkeetna, soaking in the mountaineering-town atmosphere.
Talkeetna Riverfront Park for incredible Denali views on a clear day.
DAY3
Denali National Park
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Talkeetna ? Denali National Park
Transfer to Denali and check into a wilderness lodge
Optional afternoon hike or family nature scavenger hunt
Ranger-led evening presentation about wildlife and park history
HIGHLIGHTS:
Attend a National Park Service Sled Dog Demonstration.
DAY4
Denali National Park
Close Day
Denali National Park – Tundra Wilderness Tour
6–8 hour guided bus tour deep into the park (bring binoculars!)
Spot bears, moose, caribou, and maybe wolves
Junior Ranger activities for kids
HIGHLIGHTS:
Actively participate in the wildlife spotting during the Tundra Wilderness Tour.
DAY5
Whittier
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Denali ? Whittier (Board Cruise Ship)
Scenic train or motorcoach transfer to Whittier
Board ship: Princess, Holland America, or NCL cruise (Southbound itinerary)
Welcome aboard activities for families and sailaway celebration
HIGHLIGHTS:
Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel (the longest combined vehicle-railroad tunnel in North America)
DAY6
College Fjord
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Scenic Cruising – College Fjord or Hubbard Glacier
Marvel at massive glaciers calving into the sea
Participate in onboard nature talks and family activities
Enjoy glacier-themed treats and hot cocoa on deck
HIGHLIGHTS:
Watch for calving events from the massive glaciers. The sheer scale and sound are awe-inspiring.
DAY7
Glacier Bay
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Majestic Glacier Bay: A UNESCO Marvel
Park Rangers onboard to narrate the journey
Capture family photos with breathtaking glacial backdrops
Kids’ nature journals or activity books available onboard
HIGHLIGHTS:
Engage with the National Park Rangers onboard for this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
DAY8
Skagway
Close Day
Skagway: Gold Rush to the Yukon
Ride the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway through the mountains
Visit a historic gold rush camp for gold panning and sled dog demonstrations
Family-friendly walking tour of town
Tip: Try homemade fudge from local shops!
HIGHLIGHTS:
Ride the historic White Pass & Yukon Route Railway.
DAY9
Juneau
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Juneau: Glaciers, Whales & Capital Views
Choose between:
Whale watching tour
Helicopter glacier landing (family-friendly options available)
Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center with family hiking trails
Ride the Mount Roberts Tramway for sweeping views
Dine at Tracy’s King Crab Shack or a local pizza place with glacier views
HIGHLIGHTS:
Witness the majestic Mendenhall Glacier and Nugget Falls.
DAY10
Ketchikan
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Ketchikan: Totems, Culture & Creek Street Charm
Explore Totem Bight State Park and learn about native culture
Optional: Lumberjack Show (fun for kids!)
Kayak or canoe excursion for active families
Shop for Alaskan souvenirs on Creek Street
HIGHLIGHTS:
Explore the vibrant and historic Creek Street.
DAY11
Vancouver
Close Day
Vancouver: Pacific Gateway & Farewell to Alaska
Morning disembarkation
Optional add-on: 1–2 nights in Vancouver to explore Stanley Park, Capilano Suspension Bridge, or Granville Island
Fly home from Vancouver International Airport
HIGHLIGHTS:
Spend time exploring Stanley Park (If staying in Vancouver)
FINAL THOUGHTS
This Alaskan family adventure promises unforgettable memories, from majestic glaciers and abundant wildlife to charming frontier towns. Prepare for a journey where every moment is a discovery!