5 Reasons for Seniors to Take an Alaskan Vacation
by Katlyn Miller
Among the rising number of people who are traveling to Alaska for vacation each year, seniors comprise a large portion of these visitors. This does not come as a surprise since the state hosts many tourism experiences that deliver guided Alaska tours for seniors, a high degree of accessibility, and once-in-a-lifetime opportunities. From cruises to bus tours, there is virtually no limit to the kinds of vacations you can plan. If you are a senior who is looking for the perfect travel spot, explore five reasons that make an Alaska vacation an incredible choice.
The natural sights are stunning
Whether you are looking to see the sights at Chena Hot Springs, or the Denali mountains, those who love nature will be in awe when visiting Alaska. The state is home to places such as the Alaska Highway, the Arctic Coast, Glacier Bay, and many more breathtaking spots. While each of these destinations may sound adventurous, seniors of any age and physical ability can access the most popular travel excursions thanks to a focus on accessibility for the many older tourists who visit each year.
There are plenty of ways to experience Alaska without a personal vehicle
Unlike many states and international destinations, the most beautiful places in Alaska can be experienced in a variety of ways. Since the state is challenging to access by car for many tourists, tourism companies offer dozens of ways to get to and around the state by alternate modes. Trips to Alaska can now be exclusively enjoyed on a bus, train, or on a cruise ship. What is even better is that many of these excursions are designed to be senior-friendly. In general, these Alaska tours for seniors include pre-arranged transportation, light walking (if able), and itineraries that have seniors in mind.
Senior travel groups to Alaska are popular
Above and beyond most travel spots, Alaska offers a high number of senior-specific travel options. Although there is no specific data to capture the ages of those traveling to the state, one quick Internet search reveals numerous travel itineraries designed for groups of seniors. For those who don’t regularly travel, or who have concerns about accessibility and accommodations, these tourism options can provide peace of mind.
See the sun for 24 hours during the summer solstice
In addition to the year-round sights, there are seasonal sights in nature that are able to be experienced by anyone in the state. One of these experiences is seeing the sun in the sky for a full 24 hours during the summer solstice. Senior travelers who plan to visit the state in the two months surrounding the summer solstice (from about mid-May through late July) can view this marvel of nature. While there is technically still a “sunset” and “sunrise” listed for each day in the official weather forecast, the sun never fully goes away.
View the Northern Lights in Alaska
Another stunning seasonal performance found in the Alaskan outdoors is the Northern Lights. In the evening, beautiful colors light up the sky on many nights during the colder months of the year. Even though it may sound like this could only be viewed in remote areas, the Northern Lights can be seen by tourists throughout the state. Visitors who wish to see this sight should plan to visit the state during the Northern Lights season, which runs between mid-September and late April.
After learning about what an Alaska vacation has to offer, it is no wonder why the state is such a popular destination among senior travelers. From enhanced accessibility at popular tourist spots to senior-specific travel to the exceptional displays of nature, Alaska is a fantastic spot to choose for your next vacation. Find the best Alaska tours for seniors and book your trip today.