10 Weird and Unique Things to See and Do in Alaska

Alaska, with its cold and wintry climate, may not be the ideal vacation destination for those that prefer the sunshine, but its natural beauty has attracted many vacationers every year. The unique wildlife and landscape makes Alaska as exotic a travel location as any other in the US. Despite its sparse population, Alaska has a number of other interesting tourist attractions that should appeal to those looking for more offbeat fun on their Alaska trip. These ten attractions should appeal to those who love the kitschy and the quirky, as well as those on a traditional vacation, wanting to find something a little different.

Igloo City

Despite the fact that it is no longer open, this unique building remains a tourist attraction in Alaska. Many people just want their picture taken but you can venture inside. Those that do need to be careful because vandals have had their day with the inside of the structure. It is locate at George Park Highway, Cantwell, Alaska.

Santa Claus House

The town of North Pole, Alaska, tries to make it Christmas year round. The main attraction of the town in the Santa Claus House, which has a giant statue of Santa outside in case you can't tell where it is. The house receives and answers letters from children on a regular basis and the house has a large assortment of toys, ornaments and other Christmas items that can be purchased. They also serve Espresso to their guests. For families with children it can be as authentic a trip to the North Pole as you can get. The house is located at 101 Saint Nicholas Drive, North Pole, Alaska

Hammer Museum

Every state has a number of unique museums and for Alaska one of those is the Hammer Museum. The Museum has a huge hammer statue outside to greet visitors and the inside is a unique look at history through hammers. Enthusiasts of quirky museums wn't want to miss out on the chance to see this one. It is located at 108 Main Street Haines, AK 99827

Gorilla Fireworks

In Houston, Alaska another popular attraction is Gorilla Fireworks. The place is a good source for fireworks in Alaska, allowing visitors to buy a huge variety of fireworks that they might not be able to find anywhere. In addition to fireworks though there are a variety of quirky attractions on the grounds including a recreation of the Batmobile from the 60s television series. It is located off Parks Highway.

Knik Museum

Those interested in Alaska history will want to check out the Knik Museum. Featured there is the Sled Dog Hall of Fame. The museum is also located on the historic Iditrarod Trail, which is another site you might want to visit. The museum is 300 N. Boundary, Knik, Alaska.

Museum of Northern Adventure

For a quirkier look at Alaska's history, you might want to head to the small town of Talkeetna where a museum housed in a private residence tells Alaska's history through twenty-four dioramas. You can find the Museum on Main Street.

Aurora Ice Hotel

If you are already planning to visit Chena Hot Springs, then check out this gorgeous hotel. Few sites are as dazzling as this one in any state, and a night here would be well worth the stay for just the beauty alone. It is located on Chena Hot Springs Road, in Chena Hot Springs, Alaska. (by the Chena Hot Springs)

Wizard of Oz Statues

If you are heading to Juneau, be sure to check out the Wizard of Oz statues that have become a popular attraction there. The statues are made in the style of the illustrations from the classic novels rather from the movies. They are located at 5441 Glacier Highway, Juneau, Alaska.

Anchorage Sites

Finally, if you are going to Anchorage there are two sites you will want to check out. The first is a scale model of the solar system, where you can walk to see the relations between the sun and the planets. Science geeks and people with young children will not want to miss it. It is located at 5th Avenue.

If you want to get a coffee, check out the bed shaped coffee house. This oddly shaped coffee house, that is floating in the water, is a fun place to stop by and to enjoy a brew. You can find it near the corner of International Airport and Cst.