Alaska Has 50 National Historic Landmarks… But These 9 Are the Coolest

A National Historic Landmark is a place in the United States with great historical importance. The U.S. Government has designated over 2,600 of these significant sites nationwide. Alaska has 50 National Historic Landmarks that highlight the state’s fascinating history through its Native culture, Russian heritage, military importance, and natural resources. Out of these 50, some historic sites stand out above the others. Read on to discover nine of these must-see scenic and educational destinations.

1. Amalik Bay Archeological District National Historic Landmark

The Amalik Bay Archeological District is a National Historic Landmark within the Katmai National Park & Preserve. Archeologists have discovered over two dozen archaeological sites in Amalik Bay that date back 7,000 years, making it one of the oldest inhabited places in Alaska. The Native people were hunter-gatherers who fished and hunted birds, sea mammals, and shellfish. Today, Amalik Bay is located inside the Katmai National Park, a huge wilderness area and a great spot to view Alaskan brown bears in their natural habitat.

2. Russian Bishop’s House

Built in 1842, the Russian Bishop’s House is one of the only Russian colonial architecture structures still standing in North America. This two-story log building located on Baranof Island in the borough of Sitka was the home and chapel of the first Alaskan Orthodox bishop, Ivan Veniaminov. Since then, it’s been a house for priests, a print shop for a newspaper, and an inn. Today, the house is open to the public for tours. 

3. St. Michael’s Cathedral

Also located in Sitka is St. Michael’s Cathedral. This National Historic Landmark was built between 1844 and 1848. The church, designed as a Greek cross, features a bell tower and native logs with clapboard siding. Sadly, the original structure burned to the ground during a fire in 1966. However, it was rebuilt based on its original design. Not with logs this time, but with concrete and steel walls designed to resemble the former texture. Some original art, icons, and religious objects were salvaged from the fire and are on display in the church today.

4. SS Nenana

Three steam-powered passenger sternwheelers are left in the United States. The SS Nenana, located in Fairbanks, AK, is one of them. This wooden-hulled passenger boat is sometimes called the “Last Lady of the River.” The steamboat was built in 1933 and retired from service in 1955. It was used by the Alaska Railroad for service on the Nenana, Yukon, and Tanana Rivers long before roads were built in Alaska. Today, the boat sits in Pioneer Park, where tourists can learn about Alaska’s unique history.

5. Holy Assumption Russian Orthodox Church

Construction on the Holy Assumption Russian Orthodox Church began in 1894, replacing an old church on the site that had been there since 1849. The church still has many original structures, including its original log walls. It’s the oldest surviving Russian church in Alaska, and today is still an active church under the Diocese of Alaska.

6. Kennecott Mines

Once a booming copper mining town, Kennecott became a ghost town when the ore supply began to dry up. Today, the Kennecott Mines are a National Historic Landmark where the public can take self-guided or guided tours with St. Elias Alpine Guides. Tourists can enter the buildings and witness everything left behind, from machinery to personal belongings.

7. Walrus Islands Archeological District

The Walrus Islands are seven small islands in Bristol Bay where archeological findings have discovered that people have inhabited these islands since 4300 BCE. Though hard to reach today, stepping foot on these remote and wild islands is possible. Guests can visit from May to August when walruses are abundant along the rocky beaches. Tourists can only reach the islands by boat and must have a permit

8. Yukon Island Main Site

Yukon Island, the largest island in Kachemak Bay, contains archeological sites dating back to 2500 BCE. This National Historic Landmark is home to diverse wildlife, including whales, seals, bald eagles, sea otters, and salmon. Today, if you’d like to visit the island, the Yukon Island Center hosts education groups of up to 60 people. 

9. Skagway Historic District and White Pass

Located inside Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, Skagway Historic District, and White Pass remind of the former glory of Alaska’s gold mining era. White Pass Trail links Skagway to Whitehorse in the Yukon, reaching an elevation of 3,000 feet.

Summary of 9 of Alaska’s Coolest National Landmarks

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