Things To Do
in Wasilla

Wild-caught salmon (grilled, smoked or baked) is ubiquitous in Wasilla — try it at seafood grills and local restaurants or buy fresh from fish markets in season.

Must-Try!

Local halibut served as classic fish-and-chips or tacos; available at casual seafood spots and seasonal food stands.

Local game sausages or roasts appear on menus and at markets — smoky, savory, and often paired with local ales.

Alaskan sourdough traditions live on in breakfasts; try pancakes or breads served with salmonberry, blueberry or highbush cranberry preserves.

Summer market offering local produce, baked goods, preserves, craft vendors and occasional food trucks; good place to try berry jams, fresh greens and house-smoked fish.

Roadside stands and small markets around the valley sell seasonal vegetables, berries, home-canned goods, and sometimes grilled seafood during peak season.

Residents are generally informal and friendly — a polite greeting and small talk go a long way.

Many locals practice subsistence hunting and fishing; respect private property, signage and seasonal restrictions.

Keep distance from wildlife, never feed animals, and follow bear-safety guidance in backcountry areas.

Ask permission before photographing people or private property; be mindful when photographing Alaska Native cultural sites.

Standard U.S. tipping norms apply: restaurants 15–20% of the pre-tax bill for good service, $1–2 per drink at a bar, and $5–20 for taxi or luggage help depending on effort.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Wasilla; contactless payments are common. Cash is useful for small vendors and rural purchases. ATMs are available but fewer than in larger cities, so plan accordingly.

Long daylight (midnight sun influence) and mild temperatures make summer the busiest season — ideal for hiking, fishing and glacier visits; expect mosquitoes in wetlands and many seasonal services and markets open.

Shorter days and vibrant fall colors in late August–September; cooler temperatures and early snow at higher elevations, quieter trails and increasing chance to see northern lights later in the season.

Cold, snowy and dark with limited daylight; winter offers sled dog events, snowmachining, ice fishing and strong chances to view the aurora borealis — prepare for icy roads and wear layered insulating clothing.

Thawing snow, muddy trails and rising river levels; early spring is transitional with fewer tourists, good birding and emerging wildflowers by late spring.

Primary international airport serving Anchorage, about a 45–60 minute drive south of Wasilla; major carriers and car rental services available.

Small regional and private airstrips serve general aviation and charter flights around the Matanuska-Susitna Borough; useful for bush access and scenic flights but have limited passenger services.

An iconic Alaskan sport with deep local roots; visitors can see kennels, events and learn about the Iditarod heritage in the area.

Both recreational and subsistence fishing are popular — salmon, trout and grayling draw anglers to rivers and lakes.

A common winter pastime for recreation and accessing backcountry spots; many trails and rental opportunities exist.

Summer hiking and winter backcountry skiing are popular for residents and visitors seeking mountain access.

Options are available but limited compared with larger cities — cafés and diners often offer salads, veggie soups and grain bowls; ask about substituting fish with plant-based proteins.

Vegan-specific options are more limited; bring snacks or check menus ahead of time, and plan to rely on cafes and grocery stores for staples like tofu, grains and produce.

Many restaurants can accommodate gluten-free requests, especially for seafood and grilled items — always alert staff to cross-contamination concerns.

Let servers and cooks know about allergies; smaller kitchens may have limited ingredient lists but communication is usually straightforward and helpful.