Where to watch - Iditarod Fairbanks ReStart

No one wants it to happen. The dreaded re-route. As climate change continues it's become a worry among many Iditarod travelers - is this another year that Iditarod will have to make a last minute change and start in Fairbanks? Fans traveling to Alaska for a once in a lifetime experience of Iditarod may find themselves scrambling just days to a week before the need to pivot. 

The decision to change from Willow to Fairbanks is not made lightly. Not only is it a logistical nightmare to get every one and every thing to the restart - it also takes a lot of course changes for the actual trail. Historically the Iditarod has only started in Fairbanks four times: 2003, 2015, 2017, and 2025 and each time they've had a slightly different trail. in 2017 they visited the mushing "holy land" of Huslia which was a slog fest of deep slow trail. 2025 they skipped Huslia but added 150 or so miles to make it the longest Iditarod trail in the history of the race - the "easy" race people expected was anything but.

Part of what forces the choice of race organizers to choose the trail has to do with what trails are open and safe. Just because they have ice and snow further North doesn't mean all of the rivers are safe to travel on, and it doesn't mean the land trails are much better than those in South Central Alaska.

So, how do they come to the decision that they even need to move north? Most believe they can look at the lack of snow in Anchorage and determine if the race heads to Fairbanks - but history shows that in low snow years for Anchorage often times the trail out of Willow has plenty and the run to the Alaska Range is no problem. No, to really get a good idea of trail conditions is to take a look at the Skwentna and Yentna Rivers - there's no way to get to the traditional trail and bypass them. They're more than just names of checkpoints, they have to be crossed - open water is a no go. 

Sometimes the race can start at Deshka Landing and bypass iffy spots on the rivers, but for the most part if the rivers are questionable the race has to look elsewhere.

Another way for fans and volunteers to get a sense of where things are headed is to watch the Iron Dog. The Snowmachine (this blogger refuses to use Lower 48 terminology) race runs close to the same trail as the Iditarod. It gives us a good idea of what parts of the trail are snowy and which are... well... dirt. Dirt doesn't always mean no go - though in 2025 some mushers made a huge deal out of the dirt bringing up the insane trail of 2014. 

In any case, the race organizers keep an eye on the trail and keep tabs with the local communities along the way to make the decision. They hold off for as long as they can so announcements happen as late as two weeks before race start. They do everything in their power to make a traditional route happen - especially in an odd number year as every time they've moved to Fairbanks the Southern Route is the one that loses out.

With all that in mind, let's try to put together a last minute game plan if at all possible, shall we?

Getting There

There are a few options.

Fairbanks is on the road system so you can always drive. When the start moves that far north the race starts on Monday, not Sunday. The Ceremonial Start takes place as scheduled in Anchorage and then everyone begins the trek north. If you feel comfortable driving on wintery Alaskan highways then it's an option. Note that it can take anywhere from 6 hours to 8 hours depending on the weather and road conditions. Just make sure your rental car allows you to go that far - and maybe check to see if they have studded tires or chains.

The Alaska Railroad has weekend trains to and from Fairbanks that could work out for you. The Aurora Winter Train leaves Anchorage on Saturdays so you may have to make the decision to skip the Ceremonial Start to be able to catch the train for Fairbanks as it takes off at 8:30am. In theory before catching the train you could make your way to the Mushing District to see the starting line and a few of the first teams getting set up in their parking spaces. You can then choose to do a round-trip (you would have to stay in Fairbanks until Wednesday) or a one way and then fly back (or fly home from Fairbanks). Looking at the 2027 prices RT would be $530 for an adult (age 12+), $424 if you have a military discount (active and retired), and $266 for seniors (65+). For one way it is $265, $212, and $133. To see the Itinerary/Book the train you can visit the Railroad's Website.

The fastest and possibly cheapest way to get to Fairbanks will be flying. Fairbanks International Airport sees three major airlines come through in the summer. Alaska Airlines, Delta Airlines, and United Airlines all take off and land from Fairbanks in the warmer months, however only Alaska flies in the winter. So, once again, you don't have a lot of choice in who to use. However, Flights aren't terribly expensive and if you book as soon as they announce the change you won't see the price hike. You can book directly from Alaska Airline's website here.

Where to Stay

This is going to be high priority and if you get a whiff of things possibly changing you might want to book before the announcement is made that they're changing. Most hotels allow for free cancelations up to a certain time (24-48 hours before check-in) so it just costs your time to book/cancel.

Pike's Waterfront Lodge - this is the highest sought stay for one reason: this is the starting line of the Fairbanks Restart. The teams leave from the hotel and head down onto the Chena River just steps away from the hotel. It's close to the airport and has a decent restaurant on property. Rooms are at a premium almost always and really becomes quite the catch when Iditarod and other events come to town. This is the easiest to keep you from having to rent a vehicle to get to and from the Start as you literally walk out the main door and bam you're at the start. There's a complimentary shuttle to and from the airport and Train Depot. They'll even give you a wake up call if the Northern Lights appear if you ask them to! A quick look at 2027 prices on their website have rooms between $187 and $220.

La Quinta Inn & Suites - Located less than a mile (fairly good walking distance) away from Pike's is the La Quinta Inn & Suities. They, too, offer a free shuttle to and from the airport as well as complimentary breakfast. Rates for 2027 look to start at $243 up to $303 with special rates available that will give a bit of a discount. To learn more or book a room visit their website. (Many thanks to musher Josh McNeal who pointed out that La Quinta is a huge supporter of mushing & especially The Quest.)

Aspen Suites Hotel - Located about the same distance away as La Quinta, just in the other direction, they're also on the other side of the highway so it may not be as easy to walk. The suites offer a full kitchenette while your standard rooms are... well... standard. The rooms were recently remodeled. It's also very close to Fred Meyer so if you do want to use the kitchenette, there's an easy way to get groceries. Doesn't appear to have a shuttle for the airport, but you may want to double check with the hotel to be sure. Rooms in 2027 start at $169 and they have rates for government, AAA, and seniors. To learn more or book the hotel visit their website.

Further out there are other hotels that come recommended by those more familiar to the area. They're not within walking distance of Pikes, but they're located in Downtown Fairbanks which gets you to a more centralized part if you want to spend more time than just Iditarod time.

Bridgewater Hotel - Located within walking distance of many must do tourist stops in Fairbanks (less than 10 minutes to the mushing and ice museums, for example), you'll need transportation to get to the Start. It's just under four miles by car to get from the Bridgewater to Pike's Landing. Still, it is a cheaper option for clean rooms and things to do. Rooms for 2027 start at $187 and goes up to $216. To learn more about the hotel or book a room you can visit their website.

Springhill Suites Fairbanks - Another downtown location that's within walking distance of many must do tourist stops. About the same distance away from Pike's as Bridgewater Hotel, so you'll need some sort of transportation to make it down to the start. Springhill Suites are typically a decent sized room and clean. Prices in 2027 start around $225 and up to $307 depending on your dates of stay. There is complimentary breakfast and they offer a shuttle to and from the Airport. You can learn more about the hotel or book a room by visiting their website.

Hampton Inn & Suites Fairbanks - Roughly 5-6 miles depending on which way you go from Pikes, and 7 miles to the airport. A free shuttle to and from the airport is available AND this hotel allows pets! They also offer a complimentary HOT breakfast. You'll need transportation to the Start and back, and it's a little further away from the action of Downtown Fairbanks, but depending on your needs it might be your best stay. For 2027 it looks like rooms start at $228 up to $247. To learn more about the hotel or book a room, visit their website.

Hyatt Place Fairbanks - About the same as Hampton distance wise, the Hyatt comes highly recommended by locals and travelers. The hotel offers a restaurant onsite, and has an indoor pool! There's a complimentary breakfast, and pets are welcome! Doesn't appear to have an airport shuttle, but you'll want to confirm with the hotel. Rooms for 2027 start at $249 and go up to $269. There are discounts available depending on how you book. To learn more about the hotel or book a room, visit their website.

Candlewood Suites Fairbanks - This hotel is closer to five miles away from Pikes, but it does say there is an "area shuttle" - not sure if that shuttle would operate to the ReStart or not, that would be a question for the hotel. They do have an airport shuttle, and pets are allowed! They're centrally located to all of the major tourist spots and dining. Rooms start at $222 and go up to $259. You'll want to visit the hotel's website to learn more or book a room.

[Many thanks to Josh McNeal for the hotel recommendations!]

What to do

Aside from the obvious reason you came to Fairbanks, there's a lot the city has to offer. There's of course the popular Aurora chase tours where you can go out and watch the Northern Lights. Several companies offer tours where they drive you out away from the city light polution so you can witness a magical display. You aren't guaranteed a show, but March is a great time of year to see them so you may be lucky.

Don't forget to check out the World Ice Sculpture Competition (Ice Alaska) to see some AMAZING art in ice. Go at night to see them all lit up. And cross your fingers spring doesn't come early and start to melt everything before you see it in all its glory. It's truly a stunning experience.

You can drive out to North Pole, Alaska to visit the Santa Claus House. Honestly no matter what time of year one visits Fairbanks this should be a must do. 

UAF's Museum of the North has fascinating exhibits *including a fully preserved Stepp Buffalo* and is well worth the time to visit. 

Don't forget the Mushing Museum downtown and the Ice Museum. Take a "quick" trip to the Chena Hot Springs if you're really feeling adventurous. And there are plenty of dog teams willing to take you on a ride in March. And if they're open the Pump House is a pretty tasty place to eat and kinda fun for the theming!

There's so much to do in Fairbanks, but if you're looking at a quick up and back thsoe are the ones I'd look into first to see if it can fit into your schedule.

So that's Fairbanks in a nutshell. If you feel I've missed something important, let me know in the comments! Have you stayed in some of the hotels mentioned? Is there a hotel you think I should add to the list? Let me know!

Going Nome for Iditarod (updated 2026)

This is an updated version of a post originally published in 2020.

An Iditarod legend once explained to me that to be a full-fledged Iditarod fan, one must do three things:

1. Attend the Ceremonial Start in Anchorage
2. Attend the Re-Start in Willow (previously Wasilla, sometimes Fairbanks)
3. Be there for the Finish in Nome

Now, to be fair, for most fans this trifecta is a bucket list dream that may never come true. But, if you are able to swing it, here is some information, tips, and what have you to help make your bucket list trip a reality.

I am in no way a travel planner or expert, most of my opinions come from my experiences or tips I've gotten from others on the subject. I do not get a kick back or perks.

Getting Started - When to Book

Before you even look into travel and lodging, decide which year you're going. Nome is a small community with not a lot of options for places to stay so you want to book lodging well in advance (like when Iditarod of this year ends book for next year, and even then you may be too late). In the last ten years there have been major fires in two former hotel options - one is completely non-existant and the other has not yet reopened after major renovation and restoration efforts. Nome is not on any of the highway systems in Alaska so your options are extremely limited, but with a little planning you will find yourself having an amazing time. There's no place like Nome (Dorothy Gale was *close* all those years ago on her return from Oz).

But how do you decide when you want to go? That's easy. First, decide what finishes you want to see. Do you have eight to nine days to spend in Nome? Then you can see it all and then some. If you have a specific musher in mind that's a little harder to judge, but with some Iditamath you can at least ballpark it. The Iditarod race starts in earnest on the first SUNDAY of March - every year. (Ceremonial Start is always Saturday, but the real race starts in Willow on Sunday at 2pm). It typically takes the first musher 8.5 days (give or take a few hours) to get to Nome. [Now, if they start in Fairbanks the start will be on Monday morning following the Saturday Ceremonial Start in Anchorage, but the finish time/day should be about the same.]

If you want to see the Champion come to town (and I would suggest you DO because it's an incredible experience) you should book for Sunday through Thursday (at the least stay to Thursday evening). They typically expect a team to cross under the burled arch on Tuesday afternoon to Wednesday Morning. Most of the Iditarod big wigs and sponsors fly in Saturday evening/Sunday morning and leave out Thursday afternoon. They do book their hotels for longer stays but typically check out earlier than what they've booked and so rooms do become available for later in the week.

If seeing the Champ really isn't your speed, but you have a specific musher in mind, the bulk of the teams come in Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, with the final teams coming in usually by Saturday evening. The Musher's banquet is that Sunday afternoon and typically all teams are in by then though there are the occassions where the Red Lantern comes across the finish line while folks are at the banquet. It is always difficult to judge until closer to race time as weather and trail conditions play a huge factor on how quickly the race is run.

If you can swing it - Go Sunday to Sunday. (That'd be the Sunday AFTER the Sunday start, and get the latest flight out so that you can attend the banquet). You would have Sunday to get your berrings, and all of Monday to check out all of the extras in Nome. Once teams come in you'll find yourself having a harder time pulling yourself away from Front Street and the HQ. But we'll discuss that all a little later in this blog.

Getting There

There aren't many options to get from Anchorage to Nome unless you're willing to take a dogsled. In fact, only ONE commercial airline services Nome. You can find Charter Services like Bering Air, but your cheapest option is going to be flying commercial. Be aware that all flights are totally dependent on the weather in Nome more so than Anchorage. I've been on flights where they didn't stop in Kotzebue as scheduled due to dense fog, and during the 2019 Iditarod several flights were cancelled because of the snowstorm that blew in and it took folks several days to make it to Nome as all flights were fully booked. Give yourself a buffer! 

With that in mind, let's discuss the options.

Alaska Airlines - This is probably your best bet for getting a good rate and a good flight to Nome. AKAir is top of its class when it comes to timeliness and affordablility. If you play your cards right you can swing a round trip fare for around 450.00 (ANC-OME-ANC). They typically run three flights daily during Iditarod season, though a quick peek on the app shows only two options for 2027 at this point. Direct flight is an hour and a half travel time (roughly). All flights are on your standard commuter plane, most often in the 737 series.

You can book directly with Alaska Air on their website. If you are an Alaska resident you get three checked bags free on your flight to Nome plus two carry ons. Make sure you're a Club 49 member to get this perk, it's free to all Alaska residents.

Charters like Bering Sea Air could be a possibility, but most likely at a much higher cost. They will also be much smaller airplanes and so you won't be able to fly with as much luggage - and heavier set people may not be able to board the flight. 

While there's not a lot of option for air travel, you don't have to book flights right away. You can often still get a flight for the day you want just a month before. Don't wait until the last minute, because airfare is rarely refundable or changeable without fees, but it's best to make sure you have everything else confirmed before booking your flights to and from Nome.

Please note - the Nome Airport is insanely small. As you come in from the runway (yeah you have to walk down stairs to get out of the airplane and walk across a snowy, windy runway) you will walk straight into the line of folks waiting to board their flight. On the other side of the line is where baggage claim is. There's no carousel. The airport is an experience in and of itself. And for some insane reason I LOVE it (after the fact). Keep this in mind when you get ready to fly home. You definitely do not want to get there at the last minute, they'll keep your luggage until the next day while you fly back to Anchorage. (Yes, I speak from experience.)

Once you land in Nome, you'll need to find a way from the Airport (which is quite aways away from the rest of town, though you CAN make the walk if needbe). There's no Uber or Lyft, and in 2026 there was no cab company running (which I hear was super fun for those visiting for the race). There is now a new Cab Company called Boots & Cab Co. their phone number is 907-304-1515 and according to the Nome Nugget newspaper article they take both cash and credit card (but I would bring cash just in case).

Housing Options

GET THIS DONE FIRST! Once you know when and how long you want to go to Nome, BOOK YOUR LODGING. Do not worry about airfare until you have figured out where you're going to stay. You will most likely have an easier time booking tickets to fly than you will be able to book a room to stay. It used to be that there were four hotels to choose from all near the finish line. Since 2022, however, the options were cut in half. It's harder now than ever before to snag a room.

Note that Nome is not big on amenities, it's about practicality. You'll be paying high prices, but you'll be getting moderate to economy type lodging. Remember you are going for the experience, not pampering. Going in with that mindset helps. This is not to say that you're going to be staying in a hole or anything, just note that you won't get quite the same amount of amenities we're used to in the big city or Lower 48.

As stated previously, there are two hotel options to stay in March. They are both within quick walking distance of the burled arch and Front Street. While I have only stayed at one of the hotels (the hotel I stayed at my first time in Nome has since burned down), I've talked to enough folks both from Nome and who have booked rooms in the past to get a good idea of what each has to offer. 

*Pro-tip: If you can't find rooms for the whole week, see if you can get rooms for later in the week. This doesn't work if you want to see the CHAMPION come in, but if you really have your heart set on going to Nome for any part of the Iditarod finish this is an easy back-up plan.**

Aurora Inn & Suites - It is warm, staff is friendly, the rooms are clean and spacious. Bathrooms are well kept - and each room has a bathroom. The Aurora is owned by the Bering Straits Native Corporation, and they seem to take pride in their establishment. There is ample parking in front and behind the hotel (though you do not need a car, but you can rent a vehicle at the front desk... it's expensive, I'd take a cab or walk). They have suites and standard rooms and one accessible room. The hotel is located on Front Street but several blocks away from the finish line. You can walk out the front of the hotel, cross the street to the Subway restaurant and watch the teams come off of the beach and onto Front Street if you wish (and if it's like 2019 and the ice has already broken up, they come off the beach further down the road so the teams pass right by the hotel on the street).

To learn more about the hotel you can visit their website. To book a room give them a call 1-907-443-3838 - or book through the website. They are much more responsive these days via the web which is super helpful! You can book well in advance and cancel up to just a day before your checkin date without being charged a cancelation fee.

**Pro-tip: It's been my experience that several teams choose to house their handlers/family in the Aurora, though many do choose to use host families, others prefer to be able to be RIGHT THERE where the teams come up off the ice.**

Dredge No. 7 Inn (Sluicebox Suites) - The Dredge #7 boasts "state of the art" accommodations. Wifi is complimentary. Rooms are either a King bed or Two Twins (I assume that means they push the two twins together and put on a mattress top to make a King?). Every room has a microwave, private bath, and cable tv. Rooms share a common area with several other rooms. The Dredge Inn is several blocks away from all of the Front Street action, but it's an easy walk to get to the fun. Rooms appear well kept and spacious. The hotel is owned by a 3rd generation Nome Mining Family. A lot of history of the mining era of Nome can be found throughout the hotel. The operate in two locations, but make sure you choose a room at the Sluice Box Suites location as that is the one located in town.

It used to be that of the hotels open during Iditarod, the Dredge was the best bet for having availability a few months out (vs the years out for Aurora and others). With it being 50% of the hotel rooms available in Nome, well... that's apparently not the case anymore. You can view more information about the hotel and book a room on their website. You can also give them a call at 1-907-304.1270.

Other Options - If you struck out on getting a hotel room, don't give up just yet. There are several bed and breakfast options that could be available, and locals often rent out homes and rooms for Iditarod fans. While you might be able to find something on Air BnB, your best bet to know what your options are is to visit the Nome Visitor Center's website. Not only do they have links to all B&B's in Nome, they also are the ones to contact to be put on the waiting list for the "Iditarod Overflow Housing Program". The visitor center will get you in touch with those renting out beds/couches during Iditarod. Not the most ideal, but beggars can't be choosers. Plus, you can't get more Iditarod than that! Some folks make life long friends this way. You can contact the visitor center through email or by phone 1-907-443-6555.


Food

Honestly, for being off the road system, folks may be surprised with the restaurants available in Nome. Like most everywhere in Alaska there's plenty of stops for Pizza, but you can also get Chinese, Thai, and other more "international" cuisine. Note that because Nome is not on the road system it is one of the parts of Alaska with higher prices on food and that gets passed on to the restaurant customer, but menus are fair when you keep that in mind. It helps that Nome is a major hub for Western Alaska so the prices are slightly lower than elsewhere in the region. 

There are also quite a few bars, but I've only been in one of them to meet with friends, so you're on your own for that (though, really, you gotta at least step into Board of Trade just to say you did it.)

Many thanks to Chrystie Salesky for confirming which restaurants are still in Nome. Covid and fires really changed that "landscape".

Pingo's Bakery & Seafood House - This is not a restaurant/bakery that you expect to find in "Rural Alaska". The food is different. It's not your standard comfort food. They have a different menu board almost daily. They are open only in the morning and afternoon but they are well worth the visit. There is VERY limited seating and it's pretty much family style. If there's a space open, sit. You can always order take out if you'd prefer to carry it down to the Iditarod HQ to chow down. The menu changes on the regular, but you can view it on their website.

Polar Cafe - This is aneatery attached to a bar. The Cafe entrance is around back. Once upon a time they were a full menu restaurant (diner type food) but it is my understanding they are now more of a coffee shop. A quick peek at their Facebook Page does show the occassional hot breakfast offering, but locals tell me it's not an every day thing. They do offer a variety of baked goods as well. You can view their menu here.

Airport Pizza -  Go for the pizza. Everything else is standard. But the pizza is worth the walk up the road. Alaskans love their pizza, so it's no surprise that one of the best places to eat in Nome is a pizza place. Contrary to what the name suggests, this is not in the Airport - it's actually a very simple walk from the finish line to the restaurant. There's plenty of seating and the walk helps you work off all that carby goodness. The menu is more than Pizza, but I mean... it's a pizza place, get the pizza. They don't really have an online presence, all menus appear outdated.

Milano's Pizzaria - Like many restaurants in Nome, Milano's serves more than just pizza. It's a conglomeration of Italian, several Asian cuisines, and American. Milano's is closer to the Iditarod action as it is located on Front Street so many choose to get their pizza there as opposed to the walk up to Airport. There is quite a bit of seating in Milano's as well, but (unless they've upgraded since 2019) the lighting is dark. Still, this is a good spot to get a hot meal right along the finish route. They do not have an online presence and menus seem to be outdated online. Yelp reviews show them popular with summer cruise ship guests.

Golden China - Standard American-Chinese place. Nice sized portions. Hot, made to order. If you're like me and like "Cheap Chinese" this is the place for you. They, too, are located right along Front Street and not a far walk from the finish line. Not only do they serve your popular Chinese-American dishes, they also have burgers and sandwiches and other "bar food favorites". This is a decent place to find sushi, too. Again, no real online presence, but this long standing restaurant is a safe bet for a decent meal.

Subway - Eat Fresh in Nome! No, seriously, your one "fast food" staple in Nome is the popular sammich shop of Subway. Located on Front Street, teams come up off the sea ice right behind the restaurant. It has windows looking out in the direction, so even if a team comes in while you wait for your sub - you won't miss it! Also connected to the restaurant is Nome's movie theater.

Husky Restaurant - The name fits for the event you're in Nome for. Another one of the Front Street options. Its storefront gives off bar vibes. Another Asian heavy menu that also has burgers, sammies, and other diner like food. 

La Casita Taco Shop - Located in the bowling alley of the rec center, which is a bit of a walk but doable. Looking at their website it looks like "street taco" more than taco bell which is always a plus. (Actually in doing research for this blog I find myself REALLY hungry after looking up their menu). A little more pricey than what you might be used to for Mexican food (at least compared to what all five bajillion Mexican restaurants in my part of Alaska are) but food looks super fresh in the photos. That's going to be a big part of the reason for the price difference. They also serve breakfast, so a walk just might be worth it to try a newer restaurant option.

Gold Rush Vietnamese FOOD to go - Just a hop skip and a jump from Milano's (if that) you can grab some authentic Vietnamese cuisine. You have to call in your order, and it does appear that it's to go orders only. Thankfully it wouldn't be too much of a walk to go from there to the Iditarod HQ or your hotel to enjoy your meal. 

Nome Soup Supper and Silent Auction - A fundraiser for the local Food Bank held by the Nome Methodist Church. For a donation you can sample several different types of soup. Get there early if you want to try the MuskOx stew. There's also moose, caribou... and beef and chicken for those that are less adventurous. Soup comes with bread and dessert. It will probably be one of your cheapest meals in Nome, and one of the tastiest. Seriously, do not miss this.

Coffee Shops

If you've been to Alaska you know that just like we love our pizza and ice cream, we also have a thing for coffee huts and shops. Nome has now joined that fad and there are several all around town.

Kigluaik Kuuppagvik - Located inside the Aurora Inn. You can visit their Facebook page to find out what their name means and see their daily specials.

Trinh's Floral and Coffee Shop - Located on First Avenue, she's open from 6:30am to 6:30pm in the winter Monday through Friday with shorter hours on the weekend. You can keep up with her menu on her Facebook page. It appears she also has some bakery items and ice cream.

Golden Grounds Coffe Co - They're a little up the road from Front Street and drive through only - so if you're planning to walk... um... maybe take a cab instead. It doesn't appear that they accept walk ups (but maybe it's worth a shot if you really need that cup of joe.) Check out their Facebook page for hours and specials and all the things.

Tundra Delights - This one you walk up to because it's pick up only. You put in your order and pick up at a little kiosk. Click here to view the menu and order online.

Nome, Sweet Nome

There's something special about Nome, Alaska. It quickly gets inside you. Very few folks who visit during Iditarod come away thinking negatively. Most - like myself - want to return immediately. This is a trip everyone should take, whether you're into the Iditarod or not. For an Iditarod fan - this is a must do if it's at all possible. There's just something so special about being with everyone cheering the dogs into the finish. The family like atmosphere as you walk by strangers who you just feel a connection to because you're all there for the same general purpose. The locals are friendly, greeting with smiles, and it's a slower pace. No one is really rushing (except maybe the dog teams). Nome, Alaska IS Alaska, and I hope if you're reading this you'll be ready to experience for yourself very soon.



Check out Nome part 2 - a look at what you can do and see at Nome while waiting for the dog teams to come in!

This blog has always been a hobby and will continue to be - and this list is more for myself than anything - if you can spare a few dollars to help keep this blog running I wouldn't say no. Please do not feel obligated, but know that all support (in every form, not just financial) is greatly appreciated! Click here to "buy me a coffee".

So you're coming, how do you get to the Iditarod? (Updated 2026)

This is an updated version of a post originally published in 2018.

Alright, so you've decided that you're going to do it. You're actually coming to Alaska for the Iditarod. But how are you getting here and where are you going to stay? We'll focus on getting to Anchorage/The Start in this post and will do Nome separately. If you're worried about the Fairbanks ReStart, we'll do that separately too so that it is only relevant in for sure Fairbanks years (hopefully never, but it's up to Mother Nature for that). 

I am in no way a travel planner or expert, most of my opinions come from my experiences or tips I've gotten from others on the subject. I do not get a kick back or perks.

Airlines

While it is possible to drive to Alaska, and the Al-Can Highway is an amazing adventure (I do NOT recommend driving it in a uhaul with two other people in the cab), it's not recommended. So your best option is to fly. 

Anchorage has one airport (not counting the small plane airport, and other air strips). The Ted Stevens International Airport services flights from all major domestic airlines - but not all year. Domestic airlines that fly to Anchorage in winter are as follows: Alaska Airlines, Delta Airlines, United Airlines, and American Airlines. International flights seem to be a little trickier, I can't seem to find any that come through in March - so your best bet might actually be to fly to a major hub in the United States and transfer to a domestic flight from there to Anchorage.

It's worth noting that if you go to the airline websites and apply for their credit card you will often see a huge signing bonus with airmiles that could easily cover the round trip fare. Always shop around and don't just look at round trip fare, sometimes you can save a few miles or bucks by booking two one ways.

Be aware that if you fly United or American Airline you will most likely transfer to an Alaska or Delta flight when you reach a hub like Seattle or Portland. This is not always the case, but if you are coming from the East Coast this has more of a chance of happening.

Ground Transportation

With Anchorage being the major hub for all of Alaska, there are plenty of options for transportation in and around the city. They have a fairly decent public transportation system with the People Mover, which are buses that service all over the city and run right by the major spots for the Ceremonial Start of the Iditarod. Several cab companies are available, as are the popular ride sharing apps. Walking can also be an option - but it can be chilly, and in a new city do you really want to hope you don't get lost?

The People Mover runs seven days a week with Monday - Friday starting at 6am and ending between 8pm-10:30pm depending on the route, Saturdays from 8am to 8pm, and Sundays from 8am to 6pm (subject to change, and again depending on the route, some close up much earlier). Most routes have a bus stopping every 15 minutes at any given bus stop. They have an app that you can download to track your particular route, purchase bus fare, and check schedules. Fares begin at $2.00 a ride or $5.00 for a day pass. If you're planning to use this system for more than 6 days, there is an option to purchase a week pass for $26. The week pass must be used consecutively, so price it out accordingly when budgeting. If you are 60 and over, or you have a child aged 5 years to 17 years old, you can get what is called a Half Pass, which just means your fair is half the cost of the regular fare. You must have proof of age with you when you board. You must also complete an application ahead of time which you can find on their website.

For cabs there are three major players in Anchorage. There's AK Checker Cab, whose cars are orange with a black and white checkered strip on the sides. Base fare is $2.75, with $3.00 per mile after that. Their phone number is 907-276-1234. They have cabs running all hours day and night, every day of the year. The other is Alaska (or Anchorage) Yellow Dispatch, which you can guess is a bright yellow cab. Base fare is $2.75, with $3.00 per mile. Phone number is 222-2222. 

Uber runs in Anchorage, and can range from 15 - 40 dollars (or more) depending on how far you have to go. I know in the states for the same distance/time it's less, but, welcome to Alaska. Lyft, also, runs in Anchorage and the fares are the same as Uber. Both services are wonderful IMO, but it's my understanding that there are more Uber drivers in Anchorage than Lyft. I typically have my own vehicle, so my experiences with either company are not in Anchorage but are outside of Alaska (I prefer Lyft).

Speaking of driving your own car, there is always the option of rental cars. All major rental car companies operate in Anchorage. I won't go through the list as they're fairly standard. You can typically get a good deal through Expedia, Orbitz, or other travel sites... or by contacting the local rental car offices directly.

Hotels

Anchorage is one of the major hubs for tourism so there are a lot of lodging options. Hotels range from Hostel to Five Star. There are many great options for every budget and I'll highlight the ones that make the most sense for Iditarod and I'll warn you about the ones to stay away from no matter what the savings are. These are, again, my own opinions and experiences unless otherwise noted. I do not get any perks for recommendations, and I am not trying to be malicious when I state which hotels I would avoid at all cost.

The Wildbirch Hotel (jdv by Hyatt) - The new Iditarod HQ during the race, the Wildbirch is located in the old Aviator Hotel. Rennovations were still underway during the 2026 Iditarod, but the main parts of the hotel and most of the rooms were updated. It is a different beast than the old location, and some long time fans and volunteers missed the open lobby/fireplace where they could all gather. One of the biggest pluses going for this hotel is location. You step outside and you're right in the action. You're just a hop skip and jump away from the Fur Rondy Carnival and the Starting line of the Iditarod. Rooms range from $287-$380 per "most nights" looking at the rates for the week around the 2027 Iditarod Start.

The Lakefront Anchorage - The former location for the Iditarod HQ, the Lakefront is just minutes away from the Airport (and has a free shuttle to and from). It's a quick drive to Downtown Anchorage where the Start is. Some Iditarod functions still happen at the Lakefront, including the "Return Dogs" program. Dogs that are flown off of the Iditarod trail for one reason or another are brought to the Lakefront because it rests on the Float Plane lake (that is frozen over and small planes land on it using skis). There are a few other logistical offices continuing to work out of the Lakefront. Rooms for the week of Iditarod 2027 start at $160 and go up to $347 a night depending on the room type.

The Hilton Anchorage - is just one street down from the start, in fact you'll probably exit your hotel to find dog teams setting up for the race. The Hilton also offers great views of Anchorage, the Inlet, and the mountains. The Hilton holds a bar and a cafe inside, but is within walking distance of some great places to eat as well. According to the website, rooms start at $220 a night (depending on the night). 

Sheraton Anchorage Hotel & Spa - A little further away from the starting line is the Sheraton on 6th avenue. The hotel is close to where the teams turn off of 4th avenue onto Cordova. That area of the trail is a great spot to watch the teams go by, watch teams make the sharp corner is exciting and fun and the barricade is loosened more there. Rooms start at $243 and go up to $367 a night.

Comfort Inn Ship Creek - Further out of the way on Ship Creek is the Comfort Inn. While not right where the action is, you're close to the Ulu Factory and it's not too terribly far for a walk to downtown Anchorage (if I can make the walk, anyone can). This hotel sits across from the Anchorage Railroad depot, but there shouldn't be too much noise in March. A few mushing teams typically stay here (Comfort Inn has sponsored SPKennel in the past, for example). No restaurant on site, but there are many within walking distance and you can always uber it OR you can order in.

The Westmark Hotel and The Hotel Captain Cook are also a little out of the way and a little spendy, but if you're looking for a very nice stay either one of those could do the trick.

Hotels to Avoid

Please note that I do not do this maliciously. I have nothing against the employees or owners. Just my experience, the experience of others, and... well... news and police reports.

Mush Inn Motel - Yeah, the name is PERFECT for the Iditarod, but do not be fooled. Just looking at the building could make you contract some sort of parasite. This is a well known establishment that has rooms you can rent by the hour if you get my meaning. I mean, if that's your thing, then go for it I suppose, but not if you're wanting a good night sleep. The TripAdvisor reviews back me up - and are actually pretty entertaining to read should you be looking for a few laughs.

Puffin Inn - I have friends that swear by this hotel, but guys they have another shooting or knifing in the parking lot every other night it seems. Just not a very safe place. Another one that has a lot of ladies of the night and drugs going on. Of the hotels that I say not to use, this one is probably the one I worry about least, but if you DO stay at the Puffin, don't let me know. The TripAdvisor reviews are all over the map, but most agree that this isn't the best option.

Black Angus Inn - The midtown version of the Mush Inn. So much crime here, how do they even stay open?! Bed bugs are reported, and I bet those aren't the only infestation you'd get. There are bars on the outside of the windows, my guess is to make the repeat offender criminals feel at home. TripAdvisor reviews are terrifying for this one. Don't book there. Just, don't.



There are many other hotel options in Anchorage. I went with ones that make most sense for getting to the Iditarod events. I left off a few from my original blog post as they have become less budget friendly or they simply do not exist as hotels anymore (I miss my Inlet Tower room!) Lately we've been using the Motel 6 in Midtown. Nothing fancy but the rooms are clean (if not a bit worn). 

Have a favorite hotel I didn't put on my list - or one that should be on the AVOID list? Let me know in the comments.

This blog has always been a hobby and will continue to be - and this list is more for myself than anything - if you can spare a few dollars to help keep this blog running I wouldn't say no. Please do not feel obligated, but know that all support (in every form, not just financial) is greatly appreciated! Click here to "buy me a coffee".

Nome, Sweet Nome for Iditarod

Now that you've made it to Nome, what is there to do? Depending on when you come into the final stop on the Iditarod, you may have a bit of a wait until the champion or your favorite musher cross under the burled arch. But, don't worry about being bored! The City of Nome looks forward to the Iditarod week every year. There are many city hosted events taking place as everyone waits for the siren to go off and teams to come up Front Street.

In my last Idita-Getaway post, I pointed out the different restaurant options. Each one holds a special bit of Nome in them, and if you are at all into Food Network shows like Diners, Drive Ins, or Dives or if you were a fan of Anthony Bourdain it might be fun to take a look at all of them (and if you are there long enough it's easy to do). 

Your first stop should be your hotel's front desk. Most will have the calendar of events for Iditarod week. If by chance they don't, you can take a walk to the Nome Visitor Center (which you should do anyway). The calendar will give you the times and places each event/attraction take place. It typically has a map of the city on the back, and a description of each event. These maps are free, and make a great souvenir (speaking from experience). You can also download the Event Calendar ahead of time by visiting the Nome Visitor Center's website.

While at the Visitor Center you can chat with the very friendly volunteers and staff and ask their advice on what to do and see. They will give you updates on the race as they are able, they can explain the weather and the history of their City. They often have other free or cheap souvenirs (I'm a fan of their I <3 Nome buttons). It's also a great place to stop and warm up as you wait for teams to come in. They're also responsible for the City of Nome webcam, and are the folks you'll want to contact as you make plans for your trip and are in need of lodging (should you not be able to get a hotel, they are the keepers of the list of rooms for rent in local homes). This is also often the site for different tours to pick up/start. 

Behind the Visitor Center is a trail to the sea ice and the Nome National Forest. This one of a kind forest is the self proclaimed northern most forest, and is a unique photo op. Be sure to check with the Visitor Center before exploring just incase the sea ice is considered unstable (in 2019 we couldn't visit as the day after we arrived the ice broke up). What makes the forest its own is that while the trees are natural - they are "planted" on the ice after Christmas by the local families. They're used Christmas trees! The city also puts out different wooden decorations and other photo ops. It's totally kitchy and every visitor to Nome should experience it at least once.

Once you come back up to Front Street it's just a quick walk to the Russian Church and the Nome Craft Bazaar. Do not miss this. Many of the local artists and craftspeople plan their whole year around this bazaar. There are many beautiful Alaskan made crafts, artworks, and clothing. Many of the artists are more than happy to talk to you about their craft, their lifestyle, and their culture. There is also an art show where you can see many talented pieces and how they are judged.  Be ready with both cash and card as some of the vendors prefer one over the other. There is also typically a raffle at the door. 

Next, take a walk (or grab a cab if you aren't renting a car) and head for the Nome Museum. The Museum is fairly new having been built in 2017/18. It is one of my favorite museums in Alaska. Most of the exhibits are interactive and they share the Indigenous history as well as the goldrush and beyond. You are met at the entrance of the museum with a full on display about how mushing has been a huge focal of the area - with a tribute to both the Iditarod as well as Nome's most well known and celebrated musher Leonhard Seppala and his dog Fritz. You learn about the diphtheria outbreak that made Nome famous (as well as that little dog name Balto). Plan to spend at LEAST an hour there. Often during Iditarod you will find free talks and Iditarod specific exhibits. Jon and Jona Van Zyle (official artists of the Iditarod) were there in 2019 with a special exhibit of Jon's paintings and posters, and they also did talks on Jon's running the Iditarod as well as their adventures in Alaska.

Before or after you visit the bazaar, walk through the snow over to the Welcome to Nome gold pan sign. You can also meet the "Three Lucky Swedes" who supposedly put Nome on the map. This is a popular photo op for Nome visitors, and depending on the snow depth you may be much taller than the statues. There are also some recreations of Indigenous people's tools like a boat and salmon drying rack. Signs at each spot explain what you are looking at and the history of the items. 

Depending on what days you'll be in Nome there are several fun events you can attend as a spectator or even as a contestant. Several bars host trivia contests, pool tournaments, there's wet buns/tshirt contests (if that's your thing, the Alaskan spring break), poker tournaments, concerts, foosball tournaments. This is where that calendar of events really comes in handy. Most events are free to spectate, but some do have a $5 or $10 cover charge. Nome during Iditarod is a very festive atmosphere along Front Street where everyone comes together and you are the best of friends during the week. 

There are several gift shops open during Iditarod, and it's worth going into each one to talk with the store owner and to look at all the souvenir ideas. A lot of local artists fill the shops with their creations, and there are some really fun novelty items as well. The bars are also easy to slip in and out of even if you aren't a drinker (I'm not). A lot of history within those walls and there are several that people tell you to visit just to say you've been there.

If you have time and are dying for some every day entertainment, head to the Subway sandwich shop and go to the back, the Nome Movie Theater typically has two movies playing with your typical movie theater concessions. There will also be the basketball tournament going on during Iditarod and that brings a lot of athletes from all over Western Alaska to Nome. Many Iditarod fans go to catch a game or two. 

There's also a need to stop into the Bering Land Bridge National Preserve building. You can watch some videos on the ice age's "land bridge" that brought humanity to North American all those millennia ago. They offer snowshoe tours out in the preserve, as well as a host of information at their office. You can view fossils, there are some wonderful souvenirs (including pins that you can only get from National Parks), and learn some valuable history of the area. This is more of a hidden gem for many.

And then do not miss walking down to the Iditarod HQ. It is below the Iditarod Finish line and it's where you will mingle with mushers, their families, their handlers. The Iditarod dog lot will be behind the building and security will ask you to look but not take pictures. You can see how well the athletes coming off the trail look (which is AMAZING in comparison to what their mushers look like). Inside HQ are volunteers willing to answer all of your questions, a computer where you can check in with the GPS tracker to see how close the teams are to finishing, food for sale, and the Iditarod merchandise tables. There's also free (but very slow) wifi, and a lot of places to sit and warm up while your phone charges. 

There are things that I'm missing on my list. Nome events are always changing, though the mainstays go strong every year (except for when Pandemics hit). Every part of the week is a part of your Iditarod experience and while I do suggest taking your time and just being spontaneous, I also encourage you to take in as much as possible. By the end of your trip you'll most likely be in serious planning for your next trip to Nome. Just walking through the streets of Nome you can run into some really neat things. Talk with the locals. Talk with other travelers. We're all feeling the excitement (it's the one time I'm not THAT much of an introvert).

But, wait, what about...

Don't worry, I know what you're thinking WHAT ABOUT THE ACTUAL FINISH?! I want to see MY team come under the arch, I want to see the champion! Don't worry, I have that post planned as  my next article!

Like what you see and want to see post like this continue? Support is always greatly appreciated, if you want to buy me a slice of pizza (or more) I won't say no. (To be honest that money goes into paying for internet and other website related costs.)

Exploring Independence Mine

 

Earlier this summer the bestie, the kid, and I all went up to Hatcher's Pass to explore Independence Mine. I'd only been once, and they'd never been. here are images from the day. I'm not going to bore you with a lot of text. If you want to learn more about the area check out Adventuring Alaska's blog post. 

See more under the cut. 

Wild Blueberries in Turnagain Pass

Last weekend my best friend, her 11-year-old daughter, and I took a road trip from Anchorage. This has been a different sort of summer, what with Covid-19 shutting down much of the travel industry, so the roads have been a little more clear of tourist traffic. Alaskans have all taken advantage, and we're no exception. We'd already planned to make this summer one of many trips to touristy parts of the state, but with a lot of the mandates we've opted to stick to our normal routes and explore the "wilds" where we can. We've dubbed it the "Summer of Sub-Par Adventures" because after introducing the Indiana Jones movies to the kid, she decided she could not be an adventurer, and could only do sub-par adventures. 

Anyway, on our way up we stopped off in Turnagain Pass. There are trails behind the rest stop, and I'd wanted to explore for many years but we're always on our way somewhere - plus I am not gonna do it by myself! - and this was the day! We made a spur of the moment decision. The 11-year-old was not convinced we would have fun until we suggested if she looked she might be able to find some sort of berry to eat. This perked her up and we let her lead the way. Have to say she is a good little Alaskan-type Sherpa.... except she likes hills and I do not.

The trails are well worn, but often dead end, so there was a lot of searching for the next one, but that just meant we could keep going further into the pass. We didn't do any creek crossings, but we were tempted to try and find our way to the bridge used in winter for the snowmachines and back country skiers. My best friend has been obsessed with the bridge all summer as we pass through the area and she spies it through the bushes. Her goal was to find it (spoiler: we never did), but the Kid had no idea what we were talking about and was just focused on finding berries (she had very little idea on what she was looking for there, too). 

To be honest, we have very little knowledge on berries. We were hoping we'd run into something easy like blueberries where we wouldn't have to dive into our rusty knowledge of what a safe red in color berry looked like (like cranberries, salmonberries, etc). The Kid kept telling us "facts" on how you could tell which berries were poisonous and which ones weren't, and none of it sounded correct - but that doesn't mean it wasn't. Still, it gave her a goal while her mom and I explored an area we drive through so many times and never stop to enjoy.

The fall colors weren't all the way out yet, I'm guessing we've got more color in the area now (man, should've gone to find some POP this weekend). But it was still more fall than summer in both temperature and foliage. We were not the only "hikers" in the area and we met quite a few dogs out on the trail. Just a great afternoon jaunt on the mountainside.

Either we weren't good at spotting the berries, or they just weren't around for the first part of our walk. It's wasn't long before my bestie and I got a little silly. The 11-year-old was not amused. She's definitely in the age where she is easily embarrassed by the adults in her life and to be honest I'm totally here for it. I was belting out Disney's "Just Around the River Bend" (Pocahontas) and her mother was all about "The Sound of Music"... you can clearly see from the pictures that the child was not amused. If looks could kill!

We reluctantly turned around to head back to the car to continue to make our way to Anchorage. The Kid ran up ahead to get away from the most embarrassing people she knows. As we made our way, the bestie looked down and spotted a few blueberries. The Kid came running back to gather them up, then suddenly it was like the ground exploded and they were everywhere! We spent several minutes scooping up handfuls. At one point I smooshed a bunch on my shoe - and then the kid fell and sat in a big bunch of them so it looked like we'd slaughtered something. We all laughed a lot!

We didn't bring any containers so we only took what we could carry in our hands and the kid ate them all as she walked back to the car (fine by me, I don't like berries of any color). All in all a fun experience and we're already talking about trying different trails next time.