Visiting Alaska with small children

[merela]

I wish I can use the Search mode here. But since I can't, I may have to ask this question again.

I'll be travelling with a 4.5YO and 2.5YO to Alaska via Diamond Princess end of August. We don't plan to do any ship-sponsored tours. We do want to get off the ship (weather permitting) and see the towns by ourselves.

Has anyone done Alaska with small children? Do I need to pack heavy coats for end of August?

Our itinerary includes Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and Tracy Arms. Are there any sights that we can "tour" easily with our children?

Any tips would be most appreciated.

Thanks.

Jennifer

8/28/04 Diamond Princess to Alaska
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9/27/03 Star Princess to Mexican Riviera
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[jennb]

Juneau, Skagway, & Ketchikan are all easily explored on foot. Bring a stroller for the 2.5 year old (an umbrella stroller works nicely on the ship).

The key to Alaska is layers - I see you're from So. Cal. like me. I'm taking a "parka" type coat with hood for my toddler along with the matching wind pants. (Basically, its a lined track suit with heavier coat). Plan on having to deal with rain. I'm also taking a sweatshirt, long sleeved shirts and a lighter windbreaker for her. Don't forget a hat/mittens for glacier viewing or if its windy.

As for excursions - you know your kids and their attention spans. Whale watching might be fun for the older child. There is gold panning at the salmon bake in Skagway as well.

Have fun!

Monarch 11/97
Elation 8/98
Mercury 8/00
Maasdam 7/02
Grand Princess 7/03
Island Princess 7/04

[Budget Queen]

Yes, bring that stroller. [img]http://messages.cruisecritic.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif[/img] Plenty to do in the very walkable towns. Request each city's visitor guide and consider stopping at the visitor center's for walking tour maps.

[url="http://www.traveljuneau.com"]www.traveljuneau.com[/url]
[url="http://www.skagway.org"]www.skagway.org[/url]
[url="http://www.visit-ketchikan.com"]www.visit-ketchikan.com[/url]

[Krazy Kruizers]

[img]http://messages.cruisecritic.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif[/img] weather

The end of August - might have more rain than usual so bring along some rain gear for everyone.

[img]http://messages.cruisecritic.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif[/img] [img]http://messages.cruisecritic.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif[/img]