Alaska has an abundance of museums, cultural, heritage and visitor centers that all focus on what life is like in Alaska. From aviation museums to university museums, a person could learn a lot touring the different venues around the state. Some have some pretty crazy exhibits throughout the year that you would hate to miss. Make sure to check out some of the museums and centers near you to see what’s upcoming on their event schedule!
Please note, Pioneer Aviation Museum is temporarily closed.
1) Sheldon Museum and Cultural Center
Learn about the people and culture of the Chilkat Valley at the Sheldon Museum in Haines. It’s open all week except on Sundays! Plan a visit.
2) Prince William Sound Museum in Whittier
Learn more about WWII and the Cold War along with the devastating earthquake that hit Alaska in 1964 breaking records as the second largest quake in recorded history!
3) Pioneer Aviation Museum in Fairbanks
Needless to say, aviation is a big deal in Alaska. It’s what we are best known for -our brave bush pilots and scenic aerial views :) The Pioneer Aviation Museum covers the history of the interior and arctic aviation in Alaska.
4) Oscar Anderson House Museum in Anchorage
This historic monument was build by Oscar Anderson in 1915. He claimed to be one of the first few people to set foot in what is now known as Anchorage. The house is pretty cool so next time you’re wandering around Downtown Anchorage make sure to stop in and take in this tiny bit of living history.
5) Alaska Aviation Heritage Museum in Anchorage
Another AWESOME aviation museum in Alaska is the Aviation Heritage Museum. The tours are spectacular and you get to walk through the actual history of aviation in Alaska.
6) American Bald Eagle Foundation Museum in Haines
Here is another fun one, the American Bald Eagle Foundation Museum in Haines. The museum focuses on the history of the Bald Eagle and other animals native to Alaska. The museum strives to teach its visitors about the life these creatures lead and how they are all intricately balanced upon one another.
7) Alaska State Museum in Juneau
Soon to reopen in a brand new location in Juneau, the Alaska State Museum will be well worth a visit. State and national history will be the focus of the museum and the new building will be open to visitors in 2016.
8) Alaska State Troopers Museum - Alaska Law Enforcement Museum
Admission at the Alaska State Troopers Museum is FREE and you’ll get to learn the history and story behind Alaska’s law enforcement. Have any children enamored with the idea of becoming a cop or a trooper? Take them here to get a hands on experience of life as a trooper!
9) Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center in Downtown Anchorage
The Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center is the LARGEST museum in Alaska and has some of the most exciting exhibits! Currently the Captain Cook Exhibit through the Northwest Passage is showing but check their website for upcoming events and exhibits! Don’t forget to visit the planetarium!
What other museums would you add to this list?
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