Best 10 Things to Do in Wasilla Alaska

Situated in the center of Mat-Su Valley, Wasilla Alaska is a well-known town that provides an abundance of outdoor activities, cultural encounters, and chances to fully appreciate the breathtaking splendor of the Last Frontier. Here are the top 10 things to do in Wasilla Alaska, from witnessing beautiful lakes to visiting historical museums and experiencing the local customs, there’s much more waiting to be explored:

Wasilla Alaska is tucked up between Lake Lucille and Wasilla Lake and both are among the best Wasilla attractions, providing a fantastic means for lake fishing. However, for a good cause, the Mat-Su Borough is referred to be the Stillwater Fishing Capital of Alaska. You can explore many other famous lakes just outside the town such as Memory Lake, Finger Lake, and Matanuska Lake.

One of the best things to do in Wasilla is to explore the history through museums, situated at 323 N. Main Street, this museum explains the area’s rich gold mining history. You can explore the historic homes, schoolhouses, and other structures and all-year-round exhibitions in the Old Wasilla Museum.

Moreover, if you’re interested in railroads, cars, or airplanes, this is the place for you as the museum is home to a remarkable collection of vintage cars, aircraft, Alaska railroad carriages, and artifacts related to the Bush pilots’ aviation heritage.

Hatcher Pass, a breathtaking location in Alaska, is tucked away just a short drive from downtown Wasilla. Here you get to discover the Independence Mine, a window into the 1940s mining era, or take a moment to trek through the Gold Mint Trail or take a stroll to the Summit Lake to admire its beauty, located at the top of Hatcher Pass. This is a stunning place offering lots of fun-filled and family-friendly activities all year round, and enjoying the scenic sights of the lower Mat-Su Valley makes the drive worthwhile.

The Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race Headquarters, located on Knik-Goose Bay Road, is a must-see site offering summer cart rides with Raymie Redington. Visitors can watch a 30-minute film on the race's history and explore various historical items, trophies, and achievements displayed at the headquarters. The gift shop is brimming with Iditarod memorabilia, offering a fantastic way to learn about the incredible 1,000-mile sled dog race from Willow to Nome.

Veterans Wall of Honor is one of the most well-known Wasilla attractions, which was moved to the Wasilla Fishhook Road location of the former Iditarod Elementary School. This memorial honor those who have served the nation. Here you can see all of the military’s branches that are represented with marble panels bearing inscribed names on them, whereas a particular day such as Veterans Day is celebrated in November in honor, while Memorial Day is celebrated in May at this place.

One of the most fun things to do in Wasilla AK is shopping. It boasts a variety of large and small boutiques and retailers, perfect for finding gifts and souvenirs. You might even discover a local fish tackle shop. To top off your shopping spree, Wasilla offers numerous dining options. These eateries take advantage of the agricultural landscape of Mat-Su Valley by serving locally sourced cuisine.

Visit the Dorothy G. Page Museum to learn more about the rich history and traditions of Wasilla. This museum features displays that highlight the indigenous culture of the area, early pioneer life & the well-known Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race which begins in Willow. Discover Wasilla’s interesting past through interactive photos, artifacts, and exhibitions.

Pack some lunch and enjoy having a picnic at the town site while taking in the breathtaking views of Talkeetna and Chugach peaks. Don’t forget to get some unique gifts for your loved ones such as soap and potato jewelry and souvenirs here.

Nestled in a dense forest of spruce, birch, and cottonwood trees that winds across a mild landscape of open fields, Lake Lucile Park offers amazing outdoor recreational activities. The park features a spacious parking lot, a playground, public restrooms, three sports fields, pavilions, and picnic tables for visitors. Additionally, the park provides over 57 campsites and a larger pavilion for an enhanced outdoor experience.

The Museum of Alaska Transportation & Industry (MATI) is a non-profit organization funded through donations, entry fees, and gift shop sales. Originally founded in 1967 as part of Alaska's centennial celebrations, the museum relocated to its current 20-acre location near Wasilla in 1992. The museum features a variety of exhibits, including a train yard, an exhibition hall, an art gallery, and extensive outdoor displays of artifacts. Most artifacts are donated privately, with some on loan from the military and other institutions.

Settlers Bay Golf Course is nestled in the center of the magnificent and historically significant Mat-Su Valley. The golf course takes full advantage of the valley’s natural beauty, offering breathtaking views of snowcapped mountains, in addition to a mix of wetlands and forests. You may come across the Albatross Restaurant which is housed in a beautiful timber-framed clubhouse and blends well with the neighborhood offering amazing artisanal food paired with spirits and local brews to cool off.