Uniquely Alaska

Alaska has more than its share of odd and unexpected attractions, including the handful of offbeat destinations described here. This is just a sampling; also consider checking out the state's infamous bars (such as the Red Dog Saloon in Juneau and the Salty Dawg Saloon in Homer) and Alaskan thrills, including the world-famous 1,150-mi-long Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race.

Last Train to Nowhere, Nome

Among Alaska's most interesting bush settlements, Nome was founded following a major gold discovery in 1898, and is still home to summertime gold-dredging operations. During the gold rush the Council City and Solomon River Railroad envisioned a rail system connecting Nome with the Lower 48—thousands of miles away. Construction only reached 35 mi before storms destroyed the tracks along the Bering Sea in 1907, and the project was abandoned. The company went under, but visitors marvel at the engines and several railcars rusting away on the tundra south of Nome.

Surfing in Southeast

The remote town of Yakutat lies along the Gulf of Alaska halfway between Juneau and Cordova. It isn't a major tourist destination, but it does have the state's longest beach, a 70-mi stretch that starts just outside town. It's never crowded, but local surfers and beach bums ride the swells that roll off the Gulf of Alaska throughout the year. There's even a surf shop, aptly named Icy Waves.