Kodiak Island, located off the southern coast of Alaska, is the second-largest island in the United States after Hawaii and serves as the central area of Kodiak Island Borough. The island’s main town, Kodiak, situated near its northeastern tip, is packed with nature and fascinating attractions.
Thanks to its maritime climate, Kodiak experiences heavy rainfall year-round, which has allowed lush forests to flourish despite its high latitude. This verdant environment has earned the island the nickname “Alaska’s Emerald Isle.” Kodiak is also known for hosting the largest United States Coast Guard base and a rocket launch site. Here are four popular tourist spots on Kodiak Island.
1. Kodiak Island Brewing Company
Established in 2003 in Kodiak’s downtown area, the Kodiak Island Brewing Company has become one of the most popular attractions on the island. It is loved not only by tourists but also by locals for its premium craft beers.
As Kodiak Island’s first beer brewery, it is a unique and valuable destination. When visiting Kodiak, be sure to try a freshly brewed pint of delicious beer.
The brewery produces a variety of beers with a focus on quality ingredients. Whether you prefer beers with lower or higher alcohol content, or styles ranging from dry to richly flavorful, you’re sure to find a favorite here.
Inside, a retro, stylish bar displays charming artwork and beer bottles, providing a perfect setting to savor Kodiak’s local brews.
Name: Kodiak Island Brewing Company
Address: 117 Lower Mill Bay Rd, Kodiak, Kodiak Island, AK 99615-6580
Official Site: http://www.kodiakbrewery.com/new/index.htm
2. Kodiak Laboratory Aquarium & Touch Tank
Located on nearby Nia Island across from Kodiak’s main town, the Kodiak Laboratory Aquarium offers visitors a chance to see a wide array of marine life from Alaska’s waters.
Inside the building, the first thing that catches the eye is a massive cylindrical tank. Within it, you can see colorful starfish, various fish species, crabs, sea urchins, shrimp, and many other marine creatures.
While the aquarium itself is delightful to watch, the main attraction is the touch tank—where you can actually handle starfish, crabs, and more. This hands-on experience makes it a memorable and unique encounter with marine life.
Name: Kodiak Laboratory Aquarium & Touch Tank
Address: 301 Research Ct, Kodiak, Kodiak Island, AK 99615-7400
Official Site: http://www.afsc.noaa.gov/Kodiak/kodiakAquarium_HOME.php
3. Kodiak Military History Museum
During World War II, several military bases were built on Kodiak Island. The Kodiak Military History Museum offers an in-depth look at the island’s wartime history and attracts many visitors.
Because Kiska Island and Attu Island—both part of Alaska—were occupied by Japanese forces during the Pacific War, Kodiak served as a forward base for their recapture. The museum displays items such as the Japanese flag and mannequins dressed in Japanese military uniforms, providing detailed insights into the Japanese military presence.
It also features dioramas of Kodiak Island, models of guns and missiles, historical photographs, and various artifacts that explain the island’s past. Housed in a former underground fortress, the museum itself is a fascinating historical site.
Name: Kodiak Military History Museum
Address: 1400 Abercrombie Dr, Kodiak, Kodiak Island, AK 99615-7153
Official Site: http://www.kadiak.org/museum/museum.html
4. Fort Abercrombie State Historic Park
Established in 1969, Fort Abercrombie State Historic Park is a popular attraction located in the northeastern part of Kodiak.
The park is set on the former site of Fort Abercrombie, built in 1941. Here, you can explore underground military supply depots, concrete buildings half-buried in earth, and even see old cannons.
This park offers not only a glimpse into Kodiak’s military history but also a chance to enjoy the natural environment. The park is filled with lush greenery where you might spot local wildlife. Adjacent to the park, you can view the expansive Alaskan ocean, with breathtaking views of greenery, sea, and mountains stretching into the distance.
Name: Fort Abercrombie State Historic Park
Address: 1400 Abercrombie Drive, Kodiak Island, AK
Official Site: http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/kodiak/ftaber.htm
◎ Summary
We’ve introduced four popular tourist spots on Kodiak Island in Alaska. Kodiak is a fascinating destination with its blend of natural beauty, rich history, and unique attractions—from craft breweries and interactive aquariums to military museums and historic parks.
Notably, Kodiak also garnered attention in 2012 when it received the highest vote in a Walmart store campaign conducted via Facebook, and Miami-born rapper Pitbull visited the island, adding to its modern allure. Whether you’re drawn by its rugged landscapes or its storied past, be sure to experience the charm of Kodiak Island on your next trip!