Oceanfront boardwalk promenade of Juneau, the capital city of Alaska. Editorial credit: Alexandre.ROSA / Shutterstock.com.

7 Most Charming Town Squares In Alaska

Alaska is a state with a fascinating past, where the history of indigenous peoples, Russians, and gold rush prospectors intersects to create a unique history of individuality and independence. While wandering down the town streets, you won't find typical arts and crafts. In Alaska, you'll discover scrimshaw carvings made from whale bone, which can only be harvested and worked by natives, handmade harpoons, totems, birchbark canoes, and beadwork. All of these cultural artifacts are showcased in these town squares and downtown strips. If you find yourself in Alaska, check out these seven towns' charming town squares!

North Pole

 The beautiful Santa Claus House, near the North Pole, Alaska
The beautiful Santa Claus House, near the North Pole, Alaska. Image credit Kit Leong via Shutterstock

More of a center than a square, you will find the Yule Tide spirit year-round in North Pole, Alaska, twenty miles from Fairbanks.

For more than seventy years, the town's hub has been the Santa Claus House, located at 1 Santa Claus Lane. You find letters to Santa, Santa's workshop, and Christmas-themed gifts here. Of course, it sells Santa's favorite treats, including fudge, cookies, and candy canes.

Next door, you can visit the reindeer at the Antler Academy of Flying and Reindeer Games. The nearby restaurant, Elf's Den, can be found on Mistletoe Drive, where you can get a Blitzen Burger or an Elf's Combo.

There is no need to wait for the holidays to tell the big man what you wish for. He's here year-round, just waiting for you to disclose your Christmas list and pose for a photograph.

Drive through the town with Christmas lights, giant candy canes, and year-round decorations. Don't be surprised if you see the northern lights at the North Pole, either!

Skagway

Main shopping district in the small town of Skagway, Alaska.
Main shopping district in the small town of Skagway, Alaska. Editorial credit: Ruth Peterkin / Shutterstock.com.

If Santa and the North Pole aren't your cup of tea, how about the late 1890s atmosphere of the Klondike Gold Rush? Initially known by the Tlingit name of Skaqua, the over 20 buildings in the Skagway Historic District are preserved by the National Park Service to honor the challenges and struggles of the gold rush stampede.

The wooden boardwalk and storefronts provide a glimpse into the past. Don't miss the Arctic Brotherhood Hall, the most photographed building in Skagway. The Red Onion Saloon, a former brothel, is now both a saloon and a museum.

Skagway itself is beautifully landscaped, reflecting its nickname as "The Garden City of Alaska." You'll find the visitor center in the historic White Pass & Yukon Route Depot. Stop by and talk to a park ranger to discover the fascinating history of the depot, then head next door to the Old Administration Building, now a museum. The Golden North Hotel is a notable example of the architecture of the times and is the oldest hotel in Alaska. No longer a hotel, this reputedly haunted building is home to several retail shops.

Homer

Homer Spit in Homer, Alaska.
Homer Spit in Homer, Alaska. Image credit Linda Harms via Shutterstock

In Homer, you get two distinct experiences all within walking distance. In Old Town, you'll feel the spirit and energy of the Gold Rush days. Visit the Islands and Oceans Visitor Center and learn about marine life. Tide-pooling guided tours are available during low tides.

The Bunnel Street Arts Center is the center of Old Town. It celebrates all forms of media, featuring exhibits, workshops, concerts, and screenings. Local high school students created a unique experience with The Old Town Math Trail. It's a self-guided tour through Homer with math-themed challenges to solve, which help you learn about Homer.

Art galleries abound in Old Town and, a short walk away, downtown, where the past meets the present. Downtown is filled with shops and various restaurants, ranging from local hangouts to fine dining establishments.

Steps away from a thriving business district is Beluga Slough Trail, a 1.2-mile loop that offers opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Talkeetna

The Visitor Center and shops in Talkeetna, Alaska.
The Visitor Center and shops in Talkeetna, Alaska. Image credit Manamana via Shutterstock

The gateway to Denali, Talkeetna's town square is a two-block stretch of restaurants, art galleries, craft booths, plus a brewery.

Nagley's store has been in operation since 1921, and from the outside, it appears to have changed little. Inside, you'll find a convenience store, gift shop, and the famous Nagley's cats. Yes, real cats.

Connected to Nagley's is the West Rib Pub and Grill. Despite fires, the building's relocation, and changes in ownership, the building's exterior still evokes an old-town ambiance. It's a great place to meet the locals and bush pilots.

The Roadhouse is another Talkeetna treasure. Full of character and charm, this hotel, shop, restaurant, and bakery has been a full-service 'roadhouse' since 1944.

The Talkeenta Historical Society Museum showcases the town's native, gold rush, and aviation history. Take your photo next to the famous "Welcome to Beautiful Downtown Talkeetna" sign as a memento of your trip!

Sitka

Downtown streets in Sitka, Alaska.
Downtown streets in Sitka, Alaska. Image credit Jeff Whyte via Shutterstock

The town square, known as 'Totem Square', features a totem pole displaying a double-headed eagle in honor of Sitka's Russian heritage. This is a true town square, with the Pioneer Home flanking one entire side. Built by Russians in the 1800s and then used by US Marines, it was converted into a home for elderly pioneers and prosperous settlers in 1913. Today, it has been completely renovated into a model of compassionate care for seniors and those with dementia. It features six distinct neighborhoods and abundant plant life, as well as animals, children, and activities that engage community members of all ages. The home welcomes visitors.

Along the other sides of the square, you'll find plenty of shops and restaurants.The Sitka Hotel and restaurant overlook Sitka Harbor and Crescent Bay. Ludvig's Bistro is known for its Mediterranean cuisine, focusing on fresh, locally sourced seafood. Harry's Old-fashioned Soda Shop is a community treasure that brings memories of yesteryear. Don't miss the famous Pioneer Bar, which has an Alaskan maritime theme.

For a town of less than 10,00 people, Sitka has a vibrant town square. Venture off a street of two and marvel at the natural scenic and maritime beauty.

Ketchikan

 The charming downtown of Ketchikan, Alaska.
The charming downtown of Ketchikan, Alaska. Image credit Charles HHuang via Shutterstock

Ketchikan is located in the Tongass Forest, the largest temperate rainforest in the world.

The Town Square Municipal Park is the starting point for a visit to Ketchikan. Pick up a free self-guided walking tour and discover many of the town's 60 historical sights around the square. This highly walkable city is dotted with shops featuring the works of local carvers and artists.

Ketchikan respects and preserves its native heritage, which is evident in the display of the world's largest collection of totem poles. You'll want to try the local favorite, jellyfish donuts. Yes, you read that right, jellyfish donuts.

Veer off the square and take a walk down historic Creek Street, the old gold rush 'vice' district of Ketchikan. Today, it's the heart and soul of Ketchikan, filled with rich historic culture and stunning natural beauty. The colorful buildings make for striking photos.

Juneau

 Downtown street in Juneau, Alaska.
Downtown street in Juneau, Alaska. Image credit Darryl Brooks via Shutterstock

Mayor Bill Overstreet Park is a distinctive feature of Juneau, offering easy walkable access to downtown and numerous historical sites. The large, waterfront park stretches over half a mile and showcases a sculpture of a breaching whale called Takhu. While strolling along the seawalk during the migration period, you're likely to see whales.

The park is the hub of the community and is arguably one of the most photogenic spots in an almost entirely photogenic state. The view is breathtaking from the whale sculpture to the totem pole trail with the majestic ocean and mountains as a backdrop. Walk downtown to Heritage Square and see the large-scale 'Faces of Alaska' bronze masks celebrating the diversity of Alaska's indigenous population.

Visiting Alaska is an adventure in itself. Be a 'cheechakoa' (tourist), meet the 'sourdoughs' (long-term residents), and take the time to explore these exotic small towns. They will enrich your understanding of this region—a region unlike any other, shaped by its vast size and sheer remoteness. Alaskans take pride in preserving their heritage, and these town hubs do precisely that.

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