The Best Motels to Book in Alaska

Stay at one of these convenient motels in Alaska – and you might even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights | © Prisma by Dukas Presseagentur GmbH / Alamy

Julia Sayers Gokhale

26 November 2021

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Alaska: the Last Frontier. A visit to this vast state is always wild and wonderful. Be prepared to be wowed at the sight of mountains rising from the sea, abundant wildlife and ever-changing glaciers. But at its very best, Alaska remains largely rustic. Accommodations can be limited and expensive due to high demand. These properties – the best motels in Alaska – take a visit up a notch with reasonable accommodations and epic locations, and are all bookable on Culture Trip.

Uptown Motel Kenai, for scenery and steaks on the Kenai Peninsula

Courtesy of Uptown Motel Kenai / Expedia

For those heading to the Kenai Peninsula for fishing, hiking or business, the Uptown Motel has been hosting guests for more than 40 years. Within two buildings, the motel offers 50 recently remodeled rooms that are charming and comfortable. On-site restaurant Louie’s has been serving up steaks and seafood since 1983. Just off scenic Highway 1, which leads to Homer, Kenai – and the Uptown Motel – offers views of Cook Inlet, Mount Redoubt and the Kenai River.

Hyatt Place Anchorage Midtown, for contemporary comforts in Anchorage

Courtesy of Hyatt Place Anchorage Midtown / Expedia

Anchorage is the most populous city in Alaska and acts as a jumping-off point for intrepid adventures to Denali National Park or Chugach National Forest. But don’t sleep on this thriving city. Located in Midtown Anchorage, the Hyatt Place puts you close to restaurants, breweries and urban parks – plus it’s a stone’s throw from the airport. After a day exploring the city, retreat to your modern room or relax in the hotel’s indoor pool and hot tub.

The Pioneer Motel, for old-school cool in Palmer

Courtesy of The Pioneer Motel / Expedia

Palmer, Alaska, is a cute little town along the Matanuska River, which flows down from Matanuska Glacier – the largest glacier in the US that is accessible by car. The Pioneer Motel has been operating in downtown Palmer since 1953, so they know what they’re doing – it has 18 guest rooms, as well as eight cabins that were added more recently. Open year-round, the motel encourages guests to explore the surrounding area, including a musk ox farm, Knik Glacier and skiing at Skeetawk.

Hilton Garden Inn Anchorage, for the bare necessities in Anchorage

Courtesy of Hilton Garden Inn Anchorage / Expedia

No need to try ice driving. You can hop on the free airport shuttle directly to the Hilton Garden Inn, where you’ll be greeted by a grizzly bear on its hind legs – thankfully, it’s just a stuffed one. The hotel is located just a few minutes from downtown Anchorage, and boasts spacious rooms and an indoor pool. If hiking Flattop Mountain in Anchorage isn’t exercise enough, the hotel also offers a large workout facility.

Courtyard by Marriott Anchorage Airport, for fly-and-flop convenience in Anchorage

Courtesy of Courtyard by Marriott Anchorage Airport / Expedia

Claiming the enviable title of “closest hotel to Ted Stevens International Airport,” the Courtyard by Marriott is the perfect spot for weary travelers in need of instant comfort and convenience. It’s also near the William A Egan Civic & Convention Center, which hosts conferences, trade shows, concerts and other events. Deserve a bit more? Upgrade to a suite with an additional sofa bed, ergonomic workspace and kitchenette. The on-site bistro offers Starbucks coffee and a hearty breakfast in the mornings.

Super 8 by Wyndham Sitka, for weary road trippers in Sitka

Courtesy of Super 8 by Wyndham Sitka / Expedia

The beautiful coastal town of Sitka draws visitors looking to fish, kayak, hike and learn about the state’s native history. Located between Swan Lake and Crescent Bay, the pet-friendly Super 8 motel couldn’t have bagged a better spot. The motel offers free breakfast to fuel you up for your daily adventures, as well as 24-hour coffee and tea service to keep you caffeinated at all times.

Alaska's Select Inn Wasilla, for an extended stay in Wasilla

Courtesy of Alaska's Select Inn Wasilla / Expedia

Just north of Anchorage, Wasilla is a stopover point for those looking to explore Chugach State Park or other nearby attractions like Knik Glacier. Located in the Mat-Su Valley, the Select Inn Hotel offers spacious king and queen suites. Each room comes with a fully furnished kitchen, perfect for long-term stays. While in Wasilla, be sure to visit the Iditarod Trail Museum, dedicated to the famous dog sled race.

Super 8 by Wyndham Juneau, for a woodsy retreat in Juneau

Courtesy of Super 8 by Wyndham Juneau / Expedia

In the capital of Alaska, the Super 8 is the perfect crash pad for your Juneau adventures. Located off Glacier Highway and nestled among evergreens, the convenient location offers easy access to Mendenhall Glacier, the Mount Roberts Tramway gondola ride to the mountaintop, and whale-watching tours at Stephens Passage. Rooms at the motel are updated and spacious; suites have kitchenettes. The motel also offers a free shuttle to the airport, just 5mi (8km) away.

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