Culture & History
If you love Alaska history, you’ll want to delve into the many small-town museums throughout the Valley. Each community in the Valley has a unique story to tell — from Native settlements to turn-of-the-century gold seekers to Colony farm projects. The Mat-Su museums are truly one of a kind: you can tour an abandoned gold mining town at Independence Mine State Park in Hatcher Pass. Or savor a “blast from the past” aboard a live steam train at the Museum of Alaska Transportation and Industry. Re-live history at Iditarod Trail Headquarters by exploring Valley trails on a sled built for summer travel pulled by a dog team!
Alpine Historical Site
Outdoor display of the coal mining equipment used to mine the area’s rich coal deposits.
Colony House Museum
Built in 1935, this refurbished home displays artifacts and information about the colonists from Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin who settled the Palmer area. Some of the tour guides are descendants of the first colonists and bring personal experience into the stories they tell.
Palmer Museum of History & Art
The Palmer Museum of History and Art, founded in 2005, serves as a cultural hub for the Greater Palmer Area. Located on two acres of beautifully landscaped gardens in downtown Palmer, the Museum showcases a diverse range of exhibits, from local history and the City of Palmer’s historical object collection to artworks created by regional artists.
Wasilla Museum
Named after the mother of the Iditarod Sled Dog Race, this museum features the area’s first schoolhouse and sauna plus lots of historical information.
Museum of Alaska Transportation & Industry
Over 20 acres of indoor and outdoor exhibits and displays tell the story of the people and the machines that opened Alaska to exploration and growth.
Knik Museum & Mushers Hall of fame
During the town’s heyday in 1915, over 500 residents lived in the town of Knik. Come see the remnants of the town and learn about those who once occupied the area.
Iditarod trail sled dog race headquarters
Open year-round, the headquarters offers iconic displays and fascinating information about the rich history and culture of Alaska’s official state sport.
Talkeetna Historic District
Visit 15 historical sites all within walking distance of downtown Talkeetna. Ask for a map at the Talkeetna Historical Society Museum — and make sure to spend some time at the museum, where they have a scale model of Denali. Learn about how early day and modern-day climbers prepare for their perilous journey.
Vanstock
Palmer, AK 99645
Palmer Museum & Visitor Center
Palmer, AK 99645
Talkeetna Historical Society Museum
Talkeetna, AK 99676
Knik Museum & Musher Hall of Fame
Wasilla, AK 99654
Museum of Alaska
Wasilla, AK 99654
Wasilla Museum & Visitor Center
Wasilla, AK 99654
Alaska State Fair
Palmer, AK 99645
Alpine Historical Park
Sutton, AK 99674
BUILD YOUR OWN ADVENTURE
Our multi-day itineraries are filled with helpful suggestions as you sculpt your own Alaska journey. If you’re staying in nearby Anchorage, check out our day-trip ideas.
