The northernmost town in America! Explore the Eskimo community of Utqiaġvik (formerly Barrow) and its tourist attractions

When people think of Alaska, the first things that come to mind are its vast wilderness, home to various wild animals such as bears, moose, and caribou. Many also visit for the spectacular Northern Lights.

Alaska is known for its national parks and breathtaking natural scenery, but among all its remote locations, the final frontier is the northernmost town in the United States: Utqiaġvik (formerly known as Barrow). With a population of about 5,000, Utqiaġvik is the largest settlement of the Iñupiat people, a branch of the Eskimos in Alaska. It is a popular destination for tourists looking to experience Iñupiat culture.

Since there are no roads leading to Utqiaġvik, it is often called an "isolated island on land," which only adds to its value as an untouched wilderness. Recognized as a must-visit location for Alaska tourism, let’s explore some of the attractions in this Arctic town!

In 2016, Barrow was renamed Utqiaġvik!

Utqiaġvik was previously known as Barrow, but the town officially changed its name in 2016. The name "Utqiaġvik" comes from the Iñupiat language and means "a place for gathering wild roots." The government of Alaska has been making efforts to honor and preserve indigenous culture, and the name change in 2016 was part of this initiative.

1. Point Barrow (Barrow Cape)

The first stop for visitors in Utqiaġvik is Point Barrow, the northernmost point of the United States. Since there are no paved roads leading there, visitors can only reach it by riding a buggy. Although the town’s name has changed to Utqiaġvik, the cape still retains the name "Point Barrow."

Point Barrow itself does not have any sign or marker indicating it as a tourist destination, but along the way, you will walk across the tundra and might even encounter bears or seals. Whale bones can be seen scattered around, making for an experience very different from an ordinary trip to Alaska. For the adventurous, why not try touching the Arctic Ocean? Some daring Western travelers don’t stop at just their hands and feet—they go all in and immerse their entire bodies in the freezing water!

2. Iñupiat Heritage Center

The Iñupiat Heritage Center showcases exhibitions and events related to Iñupiat culture, making it an essential stop for anyone visiting Utqiaġvik. One of the most significant traditions of the Iñupiat people is whale hunting, which has a history spanning over a thousand years.

As you explore the town of Utqiaġvik, you will notice whale bones scattered throughout the area. At the Iñupiat Heritage Center, visitors can learn about the cultural importance of whale hunting through interactive exhibits and displays.

The center features various exhibits, including tools used for hunting and a life-sized whale model. Additionally, visitors can enjoy demonstrations and lessons on traditional Iñupiat dances and crafts made from whale bones. Rather than just observing, you can actively participate in these cultural experiences.

The center also offers stunning views of a nearby lake, and if you’re lucky, you may even spot a polar bear bathing in the water. This unique experience is something that can only be found in Utqiaġvik.

3. The Whale Bone Arch

If there’s one spot in Utqiaġvik that stands out as the best place for photography, it’s this one! As the name suggests, the Whale Bone Arch is a massive monument made from the jawbone of a whale. Whales are deeply tied to the identity of Utqiaġvik, where the tradition of whale hunting continues to this day. The arch serves as a powerful symbol of the town’s heritage.

Taking a photo beneath the arch gives a true sense of the sheer size of a whale. If you’re visiting Utqiaġvik, don’t forget to capture this iconic image!

◎ Summary

We’ve introduced some of the must-see attractions in Utqiaġvik. From May to August, the town experiences the midnight sun, where daylight lasts for three straight months. Even in summer, temperatures are cold. On the other hand, from mid-November to late January, the sun does not rise for two months, and the daytime temperature often drops below -20°C (-4°F). It is hard for most people to imagine what it is like to live in such extreme conditions.

Compared to other well-known tourist destinations, Utqiaġvik may not have flashy attractions, yet it continues to draw visitors from around the world. This is because the town has a unique charm—its warm and welcoming people, its vast and untouched wilderness, and the remarkable resilience of its residents.

Due to the town’s remote location, all essential goods must be airlifted in, making everyday life expensive and challenging. This has led to a culture where people value their resources, repurposing large discarded items instead of simply throwing them away—something we can learn from the indigenous way of life. Perhaps it is this simplicity and deep connection to nature that makes Utqiaġvik such a compelling place to visit. If you ever find yourself in Alaska, be sure to include Utqiaġvik in your travel plans!

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The northernmost town in America! Explore the Eskimo community of Utqiaġvik (formerly Barrow) and its tourist attractions