As you probably already know, Alaska is a massive state. There is no way you can see it all during a one-week family vacation. It is tempting to spend your time in one of the larger cities like Juneau. However, I would like to urge you to consider destinations like the ABC Islands for part of your family trip. After all, you want to choose destinations that will have you creating amazing memories with your family!

Visit the ABC Islands During Your Family Vacation in Alaska

What are the Three ABC Islands?

Admiralty, Baranof, and Chichagof are the three islands that comprise the ABC Islands within Alaska. These islands are at the northern end of the Alexander Archipelago. This archipelago is on the southeastern coast of the state.

Most people see these islands as their ship sails through the Inside Passage. You won’t be able to tell one island from the other. After all, there are hundreds of islands. But Baranof and Chichagof are the largest ones.

All three ABC Islands are protected lands. There is plenty of wildlife roaming around each of the ABC Islands.

Check out these other island vacations for your next epic family trip! 

Admiralty – The Closest of the ABC Islands

Admiralty Island is only fifteen miles from Juneau’s coastline. It is the best place to visit if you truly want the opportunity to see a grizzly bear.

There are more than sixteen-hundred of these furry wild creatures on this island. So, the chances are excellent you will see one up close during your visit.

Booking a tour is necessary for visiting this island. Only a specific amount of people allowed on this ABC Island per day.

Baranof

A trip to Baranof will have you arriving in Sitka. You can only reach this major island city via cruise ship, ferry, or small airplane. So, plan your trip accordingly.

Once you are on this ABC Island, you can explore all the history at Sitka National Historical Park. Learn about different cultures at the Sheldon Jackson Museum.

Don’t skip visiting St. Michael’s Orthodox Cathedral.

You cannot leave this ABC Island until you have visited the wildlife at the Alaska Raptor Center. Approximately two hundred injured birds are cared for at this center. Many of them will be released back into the wild.

A few of the birds are permanent residents though. You can get closer to those animals than the ones being released into the wild.

It is important to note that many festivals and other events take place on this island throughout the year. If you do not have your heart set on specific travel dates, you may want to plan your vacation according to the timing of the Alaska Day Festival, Sitka Summer Music Festival, Sitka Whalefest, or other events that are happening on Baranof.

Reasons to Visit Alaska During the Fall for Your Family Vacation. 

Chichagof

Hanoof is the primary village on the island of Chichagof. There are so many unique things to do on this ABC Island.

I recommend stopping at Icy Strait Point first. But you won’t want to miss the sights and sounds of this destination.

After a stop in Icy Strait Point, you must venture over to the Huna Tribal House. This is a permanent Tlingit clan house. It is the only one on the island. The others were destroyed more than two hundred years ago.

The Alaskan Bush People, a television show on the Discovery Channel, was filmed on Chichagof. The Brown family lived off the land on Chichagof Island before relocating to the state of Washington.

After a long day in Chichagof, you will be more than ready for a cold brew. I recommend visiting Icy Strait Brewing for one of Alaska’s handcrafted beers. You can also get a bite to eat at this brewery. Past guests highly recommend the Alaskan smoked fish board.

Now that you know everything you need to about the ABC Islands within Alaska, you can easily incorporate a trip to any of them during a family vacation in this state. I have a few hidden gems I am ready to share with you when you are ready to have me personalize your next family vacation.

Everything you need to know about taking a family road trip in Alaska! 

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