Less than four miles from Whittier, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center concentrates on wildlife rehabilitation and public education. The Center treats injured or orphaned native animals -- including moose, grizzly bears, eagles and caribou -- then releases them into the wild or gives them permanent homes at the Center or another facility. Visitors to the Center can take walking tours of the grounds, learn about the wildlife and view the animals in natural, enclosed environments. The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is open seven days a week, year round -- except in January and February when the Center is open on weekends only. Special discounts are offered to seniors, active duty military and commercial tour groups.
Portage Glacier is a favorite Alaska destination due to its close proximity to both Whittier and Anchorage, which is a little more than an hour's drive away. Take a cruise to the calving glacier on the only boat that operates on Portage Lake, "mv Ptarmigan," an 80-foot vessel with an enclosed, heated cabin and large windows for extensive viewing of the surroundings. Narrated by a representative of the U.S. Forest Service, cruises last approximately one hour. Extend your tour of the glacial area with a hike on the Portage Pass Trail, or stop at the Begich-Boggs Visitor Center to see the glacial science exhibits. Cruises in 2011 are scheduled from May 19 through September 18 and depart a number of times each day.
Located in northeast Anchorage, The Alaska Native Heritage Center is a place where visitors can learn about the history and heritage of Alaska's 11 indigenous cultural groups. Inside you can view expansive collections of native tools, drums, watercraft, artwork and other historical items in the museum's Hall of Cultures, observe native Alaskan dancing, games and feats of strength in the Gathering Place, or watch cultural films in the theatre. Outside you can tour authentic, life-sized native dwellings nestled along the shore of adjacent Lake Tiulana. The Alaskan Native Heritage Center is open only during the summer months and offers discounted prices to residents, families and private tour groups.
