Here are 11 of the weirdest roadside attractions in Alaska worth stopping for:
1. Igloo City
Located off the George Parks Highway, Igloo City is an abandoned four-story hotel shaped like a giant igloo. Built in the 1970s, construction issues and harsh weather prevented its completion. Although visitors cannot enter the building, it remains a fascinating roadside sight with plans to convert it into a distillery.
2. Mukluk Land
This quirky attraction near Tok features a collection of unique sculptures, vehicles, mini golf, and even a bouncy house. Developed in 1985, Mukluk Land is perfect for families looking for some roadside fun.
3. Arctic Circle Monument Sign
This sticker-covered sign marks the spot where the Dalton Highway crosses into the polar region, making it one of the most iconic stops for travelers heading into the Arctic Circle.
4. Sign Post Forest
Located near Watson Lake along the Alaska Highway, this forest is filled with thousands of signs left by visitors from around the world. It’s a unique spot to explore and perhaps add your own sign to its collection.
5. Alaska Highway’s Milepost 1523
Situated in Fairbanks, this mile marker represents the unofficial end of the Alaska Highway, which was originally built during World War II to defend against potential Japanese invasion.
6. World’s Largest Chocolate Waterfall
Found in Anchorage, this massive chocolate waterfall is a sweet and unusual attraction. While not officially recognized by Guinness World Records, it is likely the largest of its kind.
7. Poker Creek
This site near Eagle is home to the northernmost international land border crossing in the United States. It’s a unique stop for those traveling through remote areas of Alaska.
8. Diamond Jim’s Liquor Store Sign
A quirky roadside sign in Anchorage that became famous due to a legal dispute over highway clearance regulations. It’s an amusing sight for travelers passing through.
9. Polaris Sculpture
Located in Fairbanks, this artistic installation features spires pointing toward the North Star, blending creativity with Alaska’s celestial beauty.
10. Liard Hot Springs
Although technically just outside Alaska along the highway in Canada, these natural hot springs are a must-visit stop for relaxation after long drives. The springs are surrounded by wildlife and offer varying temperatures for visitors.
11. Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge
Stretching along 65 miles of the Alaska Highway, this refuge offers stunning views and opportunities for birding, hiking, camping, and fishing—a perfect blend of nature and roadside exploration.
These attractions showcase Alaska’s eccentric charm and natural beauty, making them memorable stops on any road trip through “The Last Frontier.”
Sources:
- https://www.fiftygrande.com/50-weirdest-roadside-attractions/
- https://www.youralaskanadventures.com/blog/15-road-side-attractions-not-to-miss-on-the-alaska-highway
- https://www.atlasobscura.com/things-to-do/alaska/roadside-attractions
- https://www.reddit.com/r/alaska/comments/189bnit/cool_things_along_the_alaska_highway/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OLK07NshtSc
