Top 10 Hotels for a Christmas Vacation in Alaska
Discover the best hotels for a Christmas vacation in Alaska with our curated list of the top 10 hotels. From luxurious lodges to cozy retreats, explore accommodations that offer stunning views, exceptional service, and unique Alaskan experiences. Perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Imagine waking up on a Christmas morning, surrounded by snow-covered mountains, twinkling lights, and the magic of Alaska’s winter wonderland. Alaska offers a holiday escape like no other. Crisp air, cozy fires, and the dance of the northern lights make it unforgettable.
Whether you’re looking for a remote lodge or a luxurious resort, this list will guide you to the top 10 hotels where your Alaskan Christmas dreams can come true.
The Hotel Captain Cook
Photo Credit: Alaska.org
The Hotel Captain Cook in Anchorage is one of the top hotels for a Christmas vacation in Alaska. It is a premier destination, renowned for its rich history, luxurious accommodations, and incredible views of Cook Inlet and the Chugach Mountains.
Located in the heart of downtown Anchorage, this upscale hotel features 546 elegantly furnished rooms and suites, offering free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and modern amenities.
Guests at The Hotel Captain Cook can indulge in its four on-site restaurants, which serve a variety of cuisines, from fine dining at Crow’s Nest to casual meals at Fletcher’s Pub.
The hotel also boasts an extensive Athletic Club with an indoor pool, separate men’s and women’s gyms, and spa services, offering a complete wellness experience.
Its location provides convenient access to Anchorage’s top attractions, restaurants, bars, and cultural centers, making it ideal for both leisure and business travelers.
Additionally, the hotel’s meeting spaces and banquet facilities make it a popular choice for events.
Highlights:
- Panoramic views of the Chugach Mountains and Cook Inlet.
- Access to a well-equipped Athletic Club with pools and gyms.
- Four on-site dining options.
- Walking distance to Anchorage’s downtown attractions.
Marriott Anchorage Downtown
Photo Credit: Kayak
Marriott Anchorage Downtown is a well-located hotel in the heart of Anchorage, Alaska, offering both comfort and convenience.
The hotel features modern rooms with oversized windows that provide stunning views of the Chugach Mountains and downtown Anchorage.
Each room comes with amenities such as flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and spacious en suite bathrooms.
The hotel is equipped with an indoor pool, a fitness center, and meeting facilities, making it a suitable choice for both leisure and business travelers.
Its proximity to local attractions like the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts and Anchorage Museum adds to its appeal.
Guests appreciate the central location, which is within walking distance of popular restaurants, shops, and the train station.
Key Features:
- Indoor pool and fitness center
- Spacious rooms with modern amenities
- Central downtown location close to attractions
- On-site dining options and event spaces
Alyeska Resort, Girdwood
Photo Credit: TripAdvisor
Alyeska Resort in Girdwood is one of the top hotels for a Christmas vacation in Alaska and a premier year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts and luxury seekers alike.
Nestled in the scenic Chugach Mountains, this resort is especially known for its world-class skiing in the winter and extensive hiking and biking trails in the summer.
It offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and lush forests, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers.
Key Features
- Skiing and Snowboarding. Alyeska boasts the largest ski area in Alaska, with over 1,600 acres of skiable terrain and an aerial tram that takes visitors up the mountain for spectacular views.
- Luxurious Accommodations. The resort offers well-appointed rooms and suites with modern amenities, many featuring views of the surrounding mountains or Turnagain Arm.
- Dining. Alyeska is home to several dining options, including the award-winning Seven Glaciers Restaurant, which sits atop the mountain and offers panoramic views along with fine dining.
- Spa and Wellness. The resort’s spa provides a full range of services, including massages and beauty treatments, to help guests unwind after a day of adventure.
- Year-Round Activities. In addition to winter sports, guests can enjoy hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. The resort is also close to attractions like the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and Portage Glacier.
Inn at Tern Lake, Moose Pass
Photo Credit: Inn at Tern Lake
Inn at Tern Lake in Moose Pass, Alaska, is a charming bed-and-breakfast-style lodge located on the Kenai Peninsula, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
It offers a peaceful retreat for guests seeking relaxation or adventure, with easy access to outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
Key Features
- Comfortable Accommodations. The inn has spacious, well-appointed rooms, each with private bathrooms, cozy décor, and large windows to enjoy the surrounding views of mountains, lakes, and forests.
- Tranquil Setting. Nestled near Tern Lake, the inn offers a serene environment, making it a perfect getaway for those looking to escape into nature.
- Proximity to Outdoor Activities. The inn is ideally located near the Kenai Fjords National Park and Seward, offering guests opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and glacier tours.
- Wildlife Viewing. Moose, bears, and a variety of bird species can often be spotted in the area, adding to the immersive Alaskan experience.
Sheraton Anchorage Hotel & Spa
Photo Credit: Hospitality Online
Sheraton Anchorage Hotel & Spa is a highly-rated accommodation located in downtown Anchorage, Alaska.
Known for its comfort, convenience, and excellent amenities, this hotel is ideal for travelers looking to explore the city while enjoying modern luxuries.
Key Features
- Elegant Rooms. The Sheraton offers well-appointed guest rooms and suites with modern decor, featuring plush bedding, flat-screen TVs, and large windows that showcase views of the city skyline, Cook Inlet, or the Chugach Mountains.
- Ice Spa. One of the standout features of this hotel is the on-site Ice Spa, which offers a wide range of treatments, including massages, facials, and body therapies. The spa’s relaxation area also provides stunning views, making it a top spot for unwinding.
- Dining. The hotel features dining options, including the Jade Restaurant, which serves Alaskan-inspired cuisine, and Ptarmigan Lounge, offering lighter meals and drinks in a relaxed atmosphere.
- Fitness Center. Guests can also enjoy a well-equipped fitness center for staying active during their stay.
- Location. Situated close to major Anchorage attractions such as the Anchorage Museum, Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, and shopping areas, the hotel offers easy access to explore the city.
Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge, Talkeetna
Photo Credit: Alaska.org
Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge in Talkeetna, Alaska, is a renowned wilderness lodge that offers a luxurious yet rustic experience, surrounded by some of the most scenic landscapes in the state.
Known for its panoramic views of Denali (formerly Mount McKinley), this lodge provides a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, making it a favorite destination for travelers looking to explore Alaska’s natural beauty.
Key Features:
- Stunning Views of Denali. The lodge is famous for its incredible views of Denali, North America’s tallest peak, which can be enjoyed from the expansive viewing deck or through large windows in the lodge.
- Comfortable Accommodations. Guests can choose from a variety of rooms and suites, many of which feature rustic Alaskan décor and views of either the forest or Denali. The accommodations are designed for comfort, with modern amenities like flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi.
- Dining Options. The lodge offers Alaskan-inspired dining at the on-site Foraker Dining Room, where guests can savor fresh seafood and local produce, and Base Camp Bistro, offering a more casual dining experience with stunning views.
- Wilderness Activities. Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge is an excellent base for outdoor activities, including flightseeing tours of Denali, hiking, fishing, and river rafting. The lodge also offers guided tours and excursions to explore the surrounding wilderness.
- Event and Meeting Spaces. The lodge is equipped to host weddings, corporate events, and retreats, with multiple meeting spaces and banquet facilities.
Embassy Suites by Hilton, Anchorage
Photo Credit: Tripadvisor
Embassy Suites by Hilton Anchorage is a popular choice for travelers seeking comfort and convenience in Alaska’s largest city.
Located in Midtown Anchorage, this all-suite hotel offers spacious accommodations with modern amenities and excellent service, making it ideal for families, business travelers, and leisure guests.
Key Features
- Spacious Suites. Each room is a two-room suite, providing a separate living area and bedroom. The suites come with flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, microwaves, and complimentary Wi-Fi, ensuring comfort and convenience for extended stays.
- Free Cooked-to-Order Breakfast. Guests enjoy a complimentary breakfast, featuring made-to-order omelets, pancakes, and a variety of other hot and cold items, setting Embassy Suites apart from many hotels.
- Evening Reception. The hotel offers a complimentary evening reception with snacks and beverages, including alcoholic drinks, which adds extra value for guests.
- On-site Dining. Guests can dine at the on-site Territory Kitchen & Bar, which offers a variety of Alaskan and American dishes in a casual setting.
- Indoor Pool and Fitness Center. The hotel includes a heated indoor pool and a modern fitness center, making it easy for guests to stay active during their stay.
- Central Location. Situated just minutes from downtown Anchorage and the airport, the hotel offers convenient access to key attractions like the Alaska Zoo, the Anchorage Museum, and shopping areas.
Land’s End Resort, Homer
Photo Credit: Alaska.org
Land’s End Resort in Homer, Alaska, is a stunning oceanfront property located at the tip of the Homer Spit, offering unparalleled views of Kachemak Bay and the Kenai Mountains.
It’s a top destination for travelers seeking a serene coastal escape with access to both luxury and adventure.
Key Features
- Oceanfront Rooms and Cabins. The resort offers a variety of accommodations, from standard rooms to luxury suites and private beachfront cabins. Many rooms come with private balconies, perfect for watching marine life and enjoying the stunning sunsets over the bay.
- Dining. The Chart Room, the on-site restaurant, is renowned for its fresh, locally sourced seafood and Alaskan cuisine. Guests can dine while enjoying panoramic views of the water and mountains.
- Outdoor Adventures. Land’s End is a gateway to many outdoor activities such as kayaking, fishing, hiking, and wildlife tours. Guests can also take water taxis to nearby Kachemak Bay State Park for further exploration.
- Spa Services. The resort features the Sea Otter Spa, offering a range of relaxing treatments such as massages and facials, making it a perfect retreat after a day of adventure.
- Meeting and Event Spaces. Ideal for weddings, conferences, and retreats, Land’s End Resort offers banquet facilities with breathtaking ocean views.
SpringHill Suites by Marriott, Fairbanks
Photo Credit: National Park Reservations
SpringHill Suites by Marriott, Fairbanks is one of the top hotels for a Christmas vacation in Alaska. It is located in downtown Fairbanks, offering modern, spacious suites and a comfortable stay for travelers.
It’s a convenient option for visitors looking to explore the heart of Alaska’s interior while enjoying amenities suited for both business and leisure.
Key Features
- Spacious Suites. The hotel offers studio suites with separate areas for sleeping, working, and relaxing. Each suite is equipped with a kitchenette, a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, and a pull-out sofa, making it ideal for extended stays or family trips.
- Complimentary Breakfast. Guests can start their day with a free hot breakfast, offering a variety of options like eggs, fresh fruit, and pastries.
- Location. Situated along the Chena River in the heart of downtown Fairbanks, the hotel provides easy access to local attractions like the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center, Pioneer Park, and the University of Alaska Museum of the North.
- Indoor Pool and Fitness Center. The hotel features a heated indoor pool and a 24-hour fitness center, allowing guests to unwind or stay active during their stay.
- On-site Dining. In addition to breakfast, the hotel is connected to Lavelle’s Bistro, a well-regarded local restaurant offering fine dining with an extensive wine list.
Waterfall Resort, Ketchikan
Photo Credit: Waterfall Resort Alaska
Waterfall Resort in Ketchikan, Alaska, is a premier fishing lodge known for its stunning natural beauty and world-class fishing experiences.
Nestled on the shores of the picturesque Prince of Wales Island, the resort offers a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and luxury.
Accessible only by boat or seaplane, Waterfall Resort provides a unique sense of seclusion and tranquility, making it a perfect getaway for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Features
- Fishing Opportunities. Renowned for its salmon and halibut fishing, guests can enjoy guided fishing trips in the rich waters of the region.
- Accommodations. The resort features comfortable lodges and cabins, with amenities that include modern comforts while maintaining a rustic charm.
- Dining. Guests can savor fresh, locally sourced cuisine, including their catch of the day, prepared by skilled chefs.
- Activities. Beyond fishing, Waterfall Resort offers a variety of outdoor activities, including wildlife viewing, hiking, and kayaking, allowing guests to explore the breathtaking Alaskan wilderness.
- Scenic Views. The resort is surrounded by dramatic landscapes, including mountains, forests, and waterways, making it a beautiful setting for relaxation and adventure.
Ready to Explore Alaska this Christmas?
Alaska offers a diverse range of accommodations that cater to every traveler’s needs, from luxury hotels with breathtaking views to charming lodges steeped in rustic charm.
Whether you’re seeking adventure in the great outdoors or a peaceful retreat to soak in the stunning landscapes, the above hotels in Alaska provide the perfect base for your journey.
Each option brings its own unique features and experiences, ensuring that your stay is memorable and fulfilling.
As you plan your Alaskan getaway, consider these exceptional hotels for a Christmas vacation in Alaska to enhance your adventure and create lasting memories in this incredible wilderness.