Cheapest and Most Expensive Times to Visit Alaska

The cheapest and most expensive times to visit Alaska will vary based on seasons. Knowing when to go—and when not to—can help you save hundreds or ensure you get the experience you're really after.

Here’s a complete breakdown of Alaska's seasonal travel costs, highlighting off-season, peak season, and shoulder season, and what to expect during each time of year.

Cheapest Time to Visit Alaska

The cheapest time to visit Alaska is during the late fall and winter months, especially October through April. This is the off-season, when cruise lines shut down, many tour operators pause service, and temperatures drop significantly across the state.

Because demand is so low, this is when you’ll find the best deals on hotels, airfare, and car rentals. While many outdoor activities are limited, it’s a unique time to visit for those interested in northern lights viewing, winter sports, and a quieter, more local experience.

Off Season Highlights:

• Deepest discounts on lodging and flights
• Great time for seeing the Northern Lights
• Fewer tourists across all regions
• Opportunities for dog sledding and snow sports

Most Expensive Time to Visit Alaska

The most expensive time to visit Alaska is during the summer months, especially from mid-June through August. This is Alaska’s peak season, with the warmest weather, the longest daylight hours, and full access to outdoor adventures, cruises, and national parks.

Cruise traffic hits its peak during this window, and demand skyrockets for accommodations, flights, and excursions—particularly in places like Denali National Park, Juneau, Anchorage, and Seward. You’ll need to book well in advance to avoid high costs and limited availability.

Peak Season Highlights:

• Long daylight hours—up to 20+ hours in some areas
• Ideal time for cruises, wildlife tours, and hiking
• Full access to parks, glaciers, and outdoor tours
• Festivals, events, and peak whale-watching season

Best Time to Visit Alaska on a Budget

The best time to visit Alaska if you're on a budget is going to be during the shoulder seasons—early May to mid-June and late August through mid-September. These months offer lower prices, fewer crowds, and weather that’s still great for outdoor activities.

You’ll get access to most of the major attractions, including wildlife viewing, hiking, and scenic train rides—without the premium costs of peak summer. More importantly, traveling during shoulder season means you’re avoiding the harsh winter conditions and the sky-high prices of mid-summer, so your trip doesn’t get derailed by weather or your wallet.

Shoulder Season Highlights:

• Lower prices on tours, hotels, and flights
• Comfortable temps and fewer tourists
• Great time for wildlife, including bear and moose sightings
• Most summer experiences still available without the crowds