Looking to bring home your very own piece of the last frontier? In this article we’ll share our favorite made in Alaska gifts, the most popular souvenirs in Alaska, and where to find them all.
Article Overview: Souvenir Shopping Alaska
Why Trust Us
AlaskaExplored is THE DESTINATION for all things Alaska. Wether you’re planning a trip to Alaska and want to make sure you bring home the very best souvenir for you; or if you’re just curious about the last frontier and all its wonders, we got you covered. Here at AlaskaExplored.com you’ll find expert tips, detailed guides, stunning photographs, and so much more.
Together AlaskaExplored has more than twenty years of experience traveling, working, and exploring the beautifully rugged, 49th state. Working in television has taken us all around the world, and no place more than Alaska. During our time here we’ve documented countless stories from every corner and crevasse of the state. We’ve helped showcase the grandeur of this wild place for National Geographic, Discovery, Disney, Animal Planet, and more. Now we want to share our knowledge and real life experiences with you!
Souvenirs in Alaska
ULU
The Alaskan ulu, a traditional native cutting tool, makes an exceptional souvenir or gift for several compelling reasons. With its unique curved blade and comfortable handle, the ulu is not only a functional kitchen tool use for filleting fish but also a symbol of Alaskan heritage and craftsmanship. Personally it was the first souvenir I bought for myself when I first started working in Alaska years ago, and I still use it today.
The ulu’s cultural significance adds depth to its value as a souvenir, connecting recipients to the rich traditions of the indigenous peoples of Alaska. There’s an entire store dedicated to them in Anchorage, The Ulu Factory.
SMOKED SALMON
Alaskan smoked salmon is a delectable and iconic commodity that embodies the flavors of the Last Frontier. Its rich, smoky taste and tender texture reflect the pristine waters and bountiful salmon runs that make Alaska famous. As a souvenir or gift, Alaskan smoked salmon offers recipients a culinary journey through the state’s natural beauty. It’s a versatile treat that can be enjoyed on its own, incorporated into dishes, or shared with friends and family.
XTRATUF’S
When we’re working in Alaska, we live in Xtrafuf’s, and they make a great souvenir or gift too. These boots encapsulate the rugged conditions of Alaska, serving as a tangible reminder of the state’s unique landscape. Whether for practical use in outdoor adventures or as a symbol of Alaskan toughness and preparedness, XtraTuf’s are a highly appreciated and distinctive gift that allows others to step into the shoes, quite literally, of those who call Alaska their home or workplace.
COFFEE
Local coffee is a delightful and perky Alaska souvenir. Roasters take pride in crafting blends inspired by the rugged landscapes and the hearty spirit of the North. With flavors as diverse as the state’s geography, Alaskan coffee is great gift idea.
CRAFT BEER
Alaska beer is a superb choice for a souvenir or gift, but probably not a gift, you’ll want to drink this beer yourself. You might not think it, but Alaska’s craft beer scene is pretty awesome. Alaskan breweries are celebrated for their craft and innovation, often infusing their libations with the flavors of the region. From rich porters and hoppy IPAs to refreshing ales and lagers, there’s a brew to suit every palate.
Some of our favorite breweries include: Denali Brewing Co, Midnight Sun Brewing Co, and of course the classic Alaskan Brewing Co.
Check out our favorite bars in Alaska: 15 Best Alaska Bars
FIREWEED & HUCKLEBERRY PRODUCTS
Alaskan huckleberry and fireweed products, such as jams, syrups, and candies, offer a delectable taste of the state’s wild bounty and natural beauty. Whether drizzled over pancakes, spread on toast, or enjoyed as a snack, this Alaska souvenir will transport you right back to the heart of Alaska’s wilderness.
There are a ton on folks offering products like this, we like Alaska Brand for our jammy Alaskan souvenirs.
RAY TROLL T-SHIRTS
These shirts are more than just clothing; they are fun wearable pieces of art that celebrate the marine life and natural wonders of the state. Ray Troll’s distinctive and whimsical artwork is an iconic, eye-catching, Alaska, souvenir.
MOOSE POOP
Okay, not for everyone, but this unconventional Alaska souvenir makes a great novelty gag gift for that special joker in your life. They’re a humorous and lighthearted reminder of Alaska’s abundant wildlife. You can find actual moose poop arts and crafts that have been encased in clear resin as well as edible chocolates shaped like moose poop. Not the Alaska souvenir for everyone, but definitely someone.
The Winking Moose sells all sorts of fun moose poop themed items online.
NATIVE ART
Native art can be a great Alaska souvenir or gift choice for those looking for something that embodies the rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions of the state’s indigenous peoples. From intricately carved walrus tusks to beautifully woven baskets and traditional jewelry, Alaskan Native art showcases the skill, creativity, and deep cultural connections of Alaska’s native communities. Each piece tells a story, reflecting the unique cultures and histories of Alaska’s diverse indigenous groups.
Keep scrolling to find a list of some great Alaska souvenir shops that specialize in native arts and crafts.
REINDEER SAUSAGE
Reindeer sausage is a savory and distinctive choice for an Alaska souvenir or gift. The best gifts are the ones you can eat! And reindeer sausage embodies the flavors of the Last Frontier. Made from lean and flavorful reindeer meat, it is a culinary delight that represents both the state’s cultural heritage and its abundant wildlife.
Custom Seafoods sells smoked reindeer sausage online.
KELP PICKLES
If you’re looking for something pretty unique for a foodie friend, Alaska kelp pickles just might be the souvenir for you. Crafted from harvested kelp, this Alaska souvenir captures the essence of Alaska’s pristine marine environment. With their briny, slightly sweet taste and crisp texture, they offer a culinary adventure for the palate.
There’s a couple different Alaska company’s offering kelp pickle souvenirs, but we recommend Barnacle Foods. They’re doing some pretty neat stuff with to help the environment, and they make hot sauce! Check em out online, here!
Best Places to Shop for Souvenirs in Alaska
Alaska offers a variety of shopping opportunities for unique and authentic souvenirs. Here are some of the best places to shop for souvenirs in the state:
- Cultural Centers and Native Craft Shops: Visit cultural centers and Native craft shops, such as the Alaska Native Heritage Center. Here, you can find authentic Native American crafts and artworks that make truly authentic Alaska souvenirs.
- National Park Visitor Centers: Souvenir shops within Alaska national park visitor centers are great places to find nature-themed memorabilia, educational materials, and items related to Alaska’s breathtaking natural landscapes.
- Local Art Galleries and Studios: Seek out local art galleries and artists’ studios for one-of-a-kind Alaska souvenir that capture the essence of Alaska’s beauty and culture. This option allows you to directly support local artists and acquire unique artworks.
- Historical Sites and Museums: Explore historical sites and museums to discover Alaska souvenirs that tell the story of the states past. These locations often offer a range of items that celebrate the state’s history and heritage.
These options provide a well-rounded shopping experience that allows you to immerse yourself in Alaska’s culture, art, nature, and history while bringing back meaningful and memorable souvenirs.
Best Souvenir Stores in Alaska
While specific stores may vary in popularity and offerings, here are some highly regarded souvenir stores in Alaska based on their reputation for providing unique and authentic souvenirs.
- Alaska Native Heritage Center Gift Shop (Anchorage): Make a day out of visiting this awesome space, then head to the gift shop which offers a wide range of authentic Native American crafts, artworks, and cultural items that reflect the diverse indigenous heritage of Alaska.
- Alaska Wild Berry Products (Anchorage): Known for its delectable sweet treats, this store offers a selection of Alaskan made jams, chocolates, and candies, perfect for bringing home a tasty Alaska souvenir.
- The Ulu Factory (Anchorage): Specializing in ulu knives and other traditional Alaskan tools, the Ulu Factory offers functional and locally crafted items that make for excellent Alaska souvenirs. They even do custom engraving!
- Oomingmak Musk Ox Producers’ Co-Operative (Anchorage): This co-operative specializes in qiviut (musk ox wool) products, including scarves, hats, and other warm and luxurious items. Talk about legit a Alaska souvenir! Check out their stuff here.
- Soho Coho (Ketchikan): This is THE spot to get your Ray Troll merchandise, it’s his store after all. Located above a salmon spawning stream in Ketchikan’s former red light district, the gallery also offers an eclectic collection of art, prints, books, fossils, and unique gifts.
- Alaskan Brewing Co. Depot (Juneau): The Alaskan Brewing Company Depot houses the world’s most expansive variety of Alaskan gear, merchandise and take-home brew, and theres a tasting room! I’ve always said “the best Alaska souvenir is the one that gets you drunk”.
- Two Street Gallery (Fairbanks): Two Street Gallery, an artist-owned space in downtown Fairbanks, showcases a diverse range of art by eight partner artists and nearly 25 local artists. Featuring ceramics, textiles, photography, and more, the gallery’s central display panel updates monthly with guest artists or themes.
- Maruskiya’s of Nome (Nome): Get some truly authentic Alaska souvenirs here. they specialize in Siberian Yupik and Inupiaq Native art from Northwest Alaska, including carvings and jewelry made from whalebones and walrus bones! Check out their website to get an idea of what they have. Click here.
Souvenirs in Alaska (Post Summary)
Just to recap, here’s a list of the best souvenirs in Alaska.
- Uluru
- XtraTuffs
- Smoked Salmon
- Coffee
- Craft Beer
- Huckleberry Products
- Ray Troll T-shirts
- Moose Poop
- Native Art
- Reindeer Sausage
- Kelp Pickles
Map of Souvenir Shops in Alaska
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