Top 15 Must-Experience Activities in Dillingham, Alaska

Located 350 miles south of Anchorage and framed by the Wood River Mountains, Dillingham, Alaska, is a destination steeped in history and cultural significance. This port town attracts visitors eager to explore the stunning natural beauty and expansive wilderness of Alaska.

The resident community predominantly consists of Yupik Eskimo, and Dillingham serves as a vital center for freight, transportation, and tourism in the Bristol Bay region.

The primary draw for visitors is the breathtaking landscapes, extensive wilderness tours, and exceptional fishing opportunities. Additionally, some individuals arrive in Dillingham for both short- and long-term employment contracts.

Regardless of the purpose of your visit, here are some notable attractions and activities to consider while in Dillingham.

1. Wood-Tikchik State Park

Wood-Tikchik State Park is recognized as the largest and most secluded state park in the United States, spanning nearly 1.6 million acres. This expansive area encompasses nearly half of the state park territory in Alaska, and a significant portion of state parkland in the country.

The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including Moose, caribou, and brown bears. Smaller species are also plentiful, and visitors may spot beavers, muskrats, otters, foxes, wolverines, minks, and even porcupines if they know where to look.

Amenities within the park are minimal, consisting of a few rustic fishing lodges and campsites that adhere to a “pack it in, pack it out” policy.

2. Walrus Islands State Game Sanctuary

This sanctuary safeguards a cluster of seven islands and their adjacent waters in northern Bristol Bay, located approximately 65 miles southwest of Dillingham.

Access to certain islands, including the well-known Round Island, is restricted to permit holders, which serves to protect the local wildlife and resources. Permits provide visitors the opportunity to view and photograph elusive species such as the Pacific walrus while minimizing impacts on these animals and their habitats.

Other islands permit public access without the need for a permit, provided visitors do not damage resources or disturb wildlife. Permissible activities include fishing, wildlife observation, hiking, and camping.

3. Camping on Round Island

As part of the Walrus Islands Sanctuary, Round Island is an excellent camping destination, provided appropriate permissions and permits are obtained. Camping is allowed at designated sites from May to August.

This camping experience appeals to adventurous visitors. The island offers tent platforms and a cooking shelter at designated campsites. Campers must bring their tent, necessary gear, and food for their visit, as well as extra supplies to accommodate potential delays due to adverse weather conditions.

Accessing Round Island from Dillingham requires taking a local commuter flight to Togiak, which takes about 25 minutes, followed by a 35-mile boat taxi or tour to the island.

4. Samuel K. Fox Museum

This museum showcases a variety of Yup’ik artifacts from Sam Fox’s collection. Key exhibits include original pieces with Emberg’s signature, a large selection of baskets, and displays on skin sewing and fur craftsmanship, as well as the Dave and Mary Carlson collection.

Moreover, visitors can view Shaman’s hands and numerous historic photographs from the region. The museum presents an intriguing opportunity to appreciate native art and gain insight into Dillingham and its surrounding areas.

Entry to the museum is complimentary, and it is conveniently located on Dillingham Street West.

5. Lake Aleknagik

Referred to as the Gateway to Wood-Tikchik State Park, Lake Aleknagik spans 20 miles in length and 16 miles in width. This expansive waterway provides visitors with boat access to surrounding attractions.

Facilities include amenities for boats and floatplanes, while the Wood-Tikchik Park ranger station is situated in the area. During the summer months, visitors can utilize picnic tables, shelters, and a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk.

6. Cannery Tours

Peter Pan Seafoods offers tours during the summer months, highlighting the historical significance and long-standing operation of this cannery, established in 1901. It is among the oldest functioning canneries in the nation.

The Bristol Bay fishery stands as the largest sockeye fishery globally, resulting in a bustling operation at the cannery and other facilities during peak season.

7. Beaver Round Up Festival

This festival is a time-honored celebration of tradition and familial unity, featuring a variety of activities. The event revolves around the Western Alaska Championship Sled Dog Races—a three-day, up to 20-mile sprint competition.

Festival highlights include parades with floats, fun runs, and, of course, the sled racers. Regularly scheduled events encompass bingo, basketball, tug-of-war, and traditional storytelling and crafts. The festival takes place in early March, providing an energetic occasion to experience Dillingham.

8. Togiak National Wildlife Refuge

The impressive Ahklun and Wood River Mountains grace this National Park near Dillingham. These landscapes comprise lakes, coastal forests, and mountains—many formed by historical earthquakes and volcanic activity.

This area provides a sanctuary for a variety of wildlife, including wolf packs, moose, brown and black bears, and coyotes, among others. Marine life thrives here, with opportunities to observe seals, sea lions, walrus, and whales throughout the year along the expansive 600 miles of coastline within the refuge.

9. Salmon Fishing

Dillingham offers plentiful fishing opportunities, with options for seaplane or boat tours to prime fishing locations, which vary based on your preferences and the time of year you visit.

Bristol Bay Lodge provides an all-encompassing Alaskan fishing adventure, particularly ideal for novices or those relatively new to the sport. Experienced anglers can also find specialized tours, or take personal equipment out onto the bay.

10. Wandering Bear Bakery

This bakery, known for its commitment to wholesome, freshly-prepared food, is a favored establishment in Dillingham. Patrons can enjoy an exquisite assortment of bagels, gluten-free bread, and artisan berry creations, both savory and sweet.

Wandering Bear Bakery is located on Agulawok Drive, and it is beneficial to check for daily specials as distinct items are offered on different days.

11. Dillingham Guides

Dillingham boasts a wealth of knowledgeable guides who excel in their respective fields. Whether searching for fishing guides like Alaska Kingfishers or wildlife and hunting experts such as Tikchik Airventures, there are various options available to meet your requirements.

If personalized assistance is desired, it is advisable to book in advance and specify your interests to arrange a tailored tour to suit your needs.

12. Sea Inn Bar

This establishment provides a welcoming atmosphere for guests to relax and unwind in Dillingham. Located on First Avenue Street near the coastline, the Sea Inn Bar is well-regarded for its friendly staff and convivial ambiance.

Depending on the timing of your visit, you may encounter a variety of events, including live music, trivia nights, and dancing.

13. Bayside Diner

This traditional family diner serves home-cooked burgers and classic American cuisine, offering complimentary refills on fountain drinks. Menu options include breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with popular dishes such as homemade breakfasts, club sandwiches, and chowder.

The diner is located on Main Street in Dillingham, situated above the Bristol Inn within the same complex.

14. Wildlife Tours

For those interested in observing bears while in Alaska, sightseeing flights can be arranged from Dillingham to nearby parks, including Katmai National Park & Preserve.

Particularly in July, visitors can witness Brown Bears at Brooks Camp river and Waterfalls as they gather to feed on the migrating salmon, leading to a remarkable wildlife viewing opportunity.

Day tours are available, featuring a visitor center and auditorium with daily ranger-led programs to maximize your experience.

15. Winter Outdoor Activities

In addition to fishing and wildlife observation, Dillingham offers a range of other thrilling outdoor activities, including dog mushing, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing. Therefore, whether you seek to try new sports or continue with familiar ones, there are several options in this vibrant town.

Local companies, including Alaska’s Bear Claw Lodge, Tikchik Air Ventures, Nushagak Paradise Lodge, and Bay Air Inc., offer a variety of outdoor adventures.