Visit Nome Alaska, set at the tip of the Seward Peninsula and overlooking the Bering Sea, Nome may well be Alaska’s most exciting destination for independent adventurers. It’s about as far away as you can get in 
Alaska while still enjoying the conveniences of the modern world. It offers an incredible mix of Native culture, rugged Alaskan adventure, dramatic scenery, world-class sporting events, rich history, and small-town friendly. Nome is just 90 minutes by jet from Anchorage, but its remote location and 350 miles of roads radiating from town mean you can drive deep into some of Alaska’s most scenic, pristine country. With no trees to speak of, you can see forever across a gentle landscape of rolling tundra, crystal clear rivers, and wide sandy beaches. Chances are you’ll spot muskoxen, reindeer, and other wildlife—but not many other cars. When that happens, you can be sure you’ll get a wave from the friendly locals. Also visit more great Alaska beach locations by <<Clicking Here.>> Start planning your visit to Nome Alaska here. Need to know what to pack for your Alaskan Vacation? << Click Here >>
Nome Weather (When to Visit)
The best time for visiting Nome is from late May through mid-August for the fairest weather, with average temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees F. Summer brings extended daylight, with 19 hours of sunshine on June 21. June is the best month for dry weather and blooming flowers, although mosquitoes are out. Autumn weather patterns bring frequent rain, cool weather and clouds, with clear weather hit-or-miss. December to March is a busy time for activities and outdoor winter recreation for those bold enough to bundle up.
The peak tourist season runs from July to mid-August, when hotels and places like Denali National Park are packed with people. Since operators have a short season to make their money, they charge high prices during these months. Off-season pricing doesn’t begin until after Labor Day and ends before Memorial Day. Cruise ports are bustling from May through October. The best shoulder months to see Alaska are May and September, when there are reduced crowds and relatively pleasant weather.
Alaska is home to one-of-a-kind events such as the Tesoro Iron Dog Snowmobile Race in mid-February, the March 50-km Tour of Anchorage Nordic Ski Race, the March Iditarod Dog Sled Race and the April Arctic Man Ski and Sno-Go Classic. There also are some truly bizarre community events to check out, like the Cordova Iceworm Festival in February, the Mid-March Bering Sea Ice Golf Classic in Nome or the April Piuraagiaqta Spring Festival in Barrow.
Nome Area Attractions
Nome Beach
When you walk along the beaches of Nome between the Bering Sea and Front Street, it’s hard to imagine this place was once covered in tents, stretching for 30 miles up and down the coast. This beach has seen dramatic fall storms hurtle chunks of ice into the city and wipe out man-made structures. The seawall here, which extends about a third of a mile, was built to protect the city from such storms. In late fall, you can see the tide come in like a slushy, as the water turns to ice. The ocean then transforms into pack ice, creating an icy, snowy vista that encases the city for months on end. Here you can watch dog teams swiftly mushing along the ice and snow, planes landing, and crab fisherman snow machining out to check their pots. After the holidays, you can see the “Nome National Forest” sprout up off-shore. When the ice breaks up in late May, birds flock in, and beach sands are gradually revealed. In summer Nome-ites explore the beach for driftwood and sea glass, build bonfires, and watch the amazing sunset over the Bering Sea.
Carrie M. McClain Memorial Museum
Located on the ground floor of the Nome Public Library, the Carrie M. McLain Memorial Museum offers a wide variety of displays and historic pictures that allow visitors to enjoy Nome’s fascinating history. Nome’s only museum showcases the history of the Nome Gold rush from the discovery of gold by the Three Lucky Swedes in 1898 to the rush of more than 20,000 people to Nome in 1900. Visitors will also discover the lifestyles and art of the Bering Strait Eskimo and learn about the 1925 serum run that became the basis of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race.
Swanberg’s Gold Dredge
One mile east of Nome fronting the beach is this poignantly abandoned gold dredge that was in operation until the 1950s. A boardwalk with various interpretative signs traverses the tundra to allow a close-up look. In the evening, herds of musk ox can sometimes be seen in the nearby fields.
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Pilgrim Hot Springs
Pilgrim Hot Springs is a subarctic oasis full of tundra trees and bubbling hot springs found about 7 miles off of Kougarok Road. From a distance you see pine trees, balsam poplar trees swaying in the wind, and a few old buildings. You can explore the abandoned buildings that look like a nuclear bomb hit nearby with old rusted bikes out in the grass, or you can try to take a dip in the hot springs.
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Golden Sands Beach
Sand zero, so to speak, of Nome’s famed gold rush, this beach is still open to recreational mining and all summer long you can watch miners set up work camps along the shore. Some will pan or open a sluice box right on the beach, while the more serious rig a sluice and dredging equipment onto a small pontoon boat and anchor it offshore.
Best Nome Area (throughout Alaska) Tours & Activities by Viator
Viator.com – Tours, sightseeing tours, activities & things to do
Arctic Circle and Northern Lights Tour from Fairbanks
Go far off the beaten track on this small-group tour that takes you along one of the world’s most isolated roads. Travel into the Alaskan wilderness along the Dalton Highway from Fairbanks to the edge of the Arctic Circle. On the way back, keep your eyes peeled for the Northern Lights. Learn more about the Arctic Circle & Northern Lights Tour from Fairbanks.
Misty Fjords National Monument Float Plane Tour
Admire the glassy blue lakes, waterfalls, and snow capped peaks of Misty Fjords National Monument on this shore excursion from Ketchikan. Capture bird’s-eye views of varied landscapes and spot eagles, bears and plenty of other wildlife. But that’s not all—your aerial adventure, limited to just six people per plane, includes landing on a lake or fjord. Learn more about the Misty Fjords National Monument Float Plane Tour.
Juneau Helicopter Tour & Ice Field Walk
When your ship anchors in Juneau port, get ready for a shore excursion pumped with adventure and incredible views. First, soar by helicopter over Juneau Icefield, and then land on Herbert Glacier to explore the remote landscape by foot. Learn about the surrounding Alaskan wilderness and capture memorable shots during your ice field walk. Round-trip port transport included. Learn more about the Juneau Helicopter Tour & Ice Field Walk.
Denali Experience Flightseeing Tour from Talkeetna
Soar over Denali National Park’s glaciers on this flightseeing tour from Talkeetna, and see all sides of Denali Mountain (formerly Mt McKinley). Snap photos of this ancient world of rugged mountains, snowcapped peaks and glacier-filled valleys — including Ruth Glacier, Sheldon Amphitheater and the Great Gorge with its mile-high granite walls. Upgrade to land on a glacier for a walkabout in one of more remote spots in the world. This small-group tour is limited to just six passengers, making for a memorable experience. Learn more about the Denali Experience Flightseeing Tour.
Bering Sea Crab Fisherman’s Tour from Ketchikan
If you’re a fan of the Discovery Channel’s hit TV show ‘Deadliest Catch,’ you saw the Aleutian Ballad, a commercial fishing boat, escape a rogue wave in the Bering Sea. On this fisherman’s tour from Ketchikan, hop aboard the Aleutian Ballad and navigate through the tranquil, protected waterways of the Inside Passage with a seasoned fishing crew, and marvel at the variety of marine creatures caught in barrel pots and hauled up on deck. Touch some of the catch, take photos, and listen to entertaining sea lore. Learn more about the Bering Sea Crab Fisherman’s Tour.
Best Nome Restaurants
Bering Sea Bar & Grill $11 – 30
Is this the best sushi we’ve ever had? No, but it’s the only sushi we’ve had overlooking the icy Bering Sea, and that’s something. You can also grub on not-so-Japanese but very Alaskan favorites like chili cheese fries, mushroom burgers and nachos. For more information call 907-443-4900, or visit them on the web at Bering Sea Bar & Grill.
Polar Cafe $11 – 30
This popular waterfront eatery serves straightforward food that hits the spot – at least in Nome. As a bonus it has open views of the Bering Sea, friendly service and a $10 salad bar. For more information call 907-443-5191, or visit them on the web at Polar Cafe.
Milano’s Pizzaria $11 – 30
Despite the name, Milano’s serves way more than pizza. This local favorite slings subs, cheese steaks, tempura, teriyaki, spaghetti, sushi, ramen and (why not?) a lobster dinner. The pizza itself is also pretty damn good. For more information call 907-443-2924, or visit them on the web at Milano’s Pizzaria.
Husky Restaurant $11 – 30
This cheap (by Nome standards) and cheerful diner does up platters of gyoza, chicken katsu, teriyaki and the usual Arctic slate of burgers and sandwiches. For more information call 907-443-1300, or visit them on the web at Husky Restaurant.
Pingo Bakery $11 – 30
For Pingo shout ‘bingo!,’ especially if you arrive on a day when this precious little cafe is open. Best way to find out? Follow your nose. You’ll catch the heady aroma of freshly baked cinnamon buns long before you see the flashing neon sign. Snack-seekers grab the croissants, cookies and big buns. Those with larger appetites tackle the roasted halibut pizza. For more information call 907-387-0654, or visit them on the web at Pingo Bakery.
Best Nome Bar
Board of Trade Saloon
They have a great selection of drinks on our new menu. From their locals favorites to their new drinks, they’re sure you can find something you will like. They have pool tables, bean bag toss boards, a large dance floor and stage for bands and other entertainment. There’s something for everyone here. From their Poker and Game nights, Karaoke, Pool Tournaments or our Mid Week Dance Parties. Which ever you choose, you’ll have a great time! Stop in and see why they’ve been around for over 100 years. Telephone: 907-443-2611 Web: Board of Trade Saloon.
Best Nome Hotels
Dredge No.7 Inn
The Dredge No. 7 Inn is a new state–of-the-art lodging in Nome, Alaska with Historical turn-of-the Century ambiance. The suites are appointed with Mining names and decor, Historical photos and Mining memorabilia from the turn of the century in Nome. All suites have private baths, kitchen facilities and private use refrigerators in rooms unless noted. Most of the suites have a shared commons/kitchen that includes a cable flat screen TV, reclining chairs, couches and kitchen. For more information, pricing, or to reserve your room, visit Dredge No.7 Inn.
Angel Camp By The Sea Bed & Breakfast
Welcome to Angel Camp by the Sea located in Nome, Alaska. Their beautiful bed and breakfast is located right on Front Street, the end of the Iditarod. Amenities include free WiFi, continental breakfast, cable TV, washer & dryer, ocean views, and a private entry. For more information, pricing, or to reserve your room, visit Angel Camp by the Sea.
Nome Nugget Inn
Their 47-room hotel provides a restful place to stay in the heart of Nome, Alaska. From the moment you step into the lobby, the special historic atmosphere of the Nome Nugget Inn will pull you back into the days of the Gold Rush and the great Iditarod Dogsled races. For more information, pricing, or to reserve your room, visit Nome Nugget Inn.
Bering Sea Bed & Breakfast
Bering Sea Bed and Breakfast provides comfortable lodging in a warm and friendly environment. Located on the East end of town, Bering Sea Bed and Breakfast has a wonderful view of the beautiful Bering Sea. For more information, pricing, or to reserve your room, visit Bering Sea Bed & Breakfast.
Aurora Inn & Suites
Aurora Inn is situated on the oceanfront overlooking the Bering Sea, and at the quiet end of town. In winter it provides a warm and cozy retreat within the glittering frozen landscape and in summer it’s a luxurious base from which you can see a multitude of things. They offer 52 of the best hotel rooms in Nome, Alaska. For more information, pricing, or to reserve your room visit Aurora Inn & Suites.
Nome looks amazing! I want to visit it soon.
I like the beach, the smell of the breeze and the sound that the beach makes every wave.
I want to travel to Alaska soon 🙂 I am excited. What do you think is the best time to go there and have a vacation? For example, if I want to enjoy as much attraction as possible, or a local holiday to celebrate?
WIll pretty much appreciate
Definitely between the end of May and the first part of September. Those are the warm months where the weather will mostly cooperate 🙂 Let me know if you need any help with your planning!
Hi Leahrae,
I haven’t been to Alaska yet, but it’s a location we want to visit. Being from Alberta, Canada, we’re not all that far. And the weather and mosquitos sound like home, lol.
We’re hoping to drive and camp along the way, taking out time.
I’ve definitely bookmarked your post!
Cheers,
Suzanne
Boy Suzanne, you will have fun! And yes, it will feel like home for you 😀 Just those two things…the weather and mosquitoes. Although the scenery will be just as beautiful! Thanks for stopping by.
This is a very good guide! I have been thinking to visit it for a long time now. I should start planning now 🙂 Thanks!
Yes you should Stef! Alaska is beautiful, and Nome is an experience. As they say, there’s no place like Nome!
Leahrae,
Nome is a place to go in the summer if you do not like really cold weather. You are correct in the mosquitoes being a bother in the hot summer. They too have a short season, they do grow quite large and have many friends. Many people will go to this area to hunt in the remote locations to find that trophy for the wall back home. Having daylight hours that will last for almost the whole day will make you want to stay up and party while the light is out.
John
I had to put foil on my windows so that I could sleep at night, because you are right, even when there are the 19 hours days…the sun really never sets. And thank goodness the mosquito season is short, because you are right…they get HUGE in my book. But Alaska is wonderful. Thanks for stopping by 🙂
Nome looks interesting in your video. Not too many people but lots of activities when the weather is good. I would not want to be there in winter. Too cold! Heck the sea even freezes which makes it good for ice fishing. The water must get very rough with the long rock barrier on the beach. Summer sure is the best time to travel there. One could have a great vacation then.
Yes, the long rock barrier was put in because of the rough waters. And I agree, I love Alaska in the summer, but I don’t like their winters at all. I have been ice fishing….not my “cup of tea” LOL! Great summer vacation though with plenty of things to keep you busy. Thanks for the visit Mick!
What a small little town! I’m going to have to plan on eating at the Polar Cafe. One thing I really like about your posts is you list out the restaurants! I love that. Part of traveling, especially going to a small town, is knowing where to eat and stay. And the good places. Keep up the great work, I’m stoked to learn more about great places to visit.
Great JB, and you can surf here as well 🙂 That’s a plus in my book! I am glad you are enjoying your visits to beach travel destinations, and thank you for your continued visits!
Nome looks like such a beautiful and enchanting place and the hotels look amazing too! I have never though about visiting Alaska until I started reading your reviews on it and you have completely sold it to me, even more so than the tropical island beach resorts. There’s just something about places that get lots of ice and cold, everything seems lusher and and greener, a totally different type of scenery from hot countries.
And isn’t that just amazing that you can go prospecting for gold? What!! Love it 🙂
Yes, Alaska is wonderful. I lived there for many years and it is beautiful. I am more of a warm climate person, but I do enjoy heading back there for visits. You are right, it is very different than anywhere else, especially in the states. And, prospecting for gold is quite fun 🙂 Thanks for visiting Stefanie.
Oh wow, Leahrae. Such a great article…I love trolling your site. I have never heard of Nome, Alaska. I have taken a few cruises there (Alaska), but I can’t remember ever hearing about this place – of course, those cruises were a few years ago and it was more about the relaxation than paying attention to much else – eyebrows raised, if you catch my drift! LOL
In any event, your article is certainly convincing and urging me to revisit Alaska, and this time with Nome in mind. The hot springs sound like something I could certainly enjoy. Thanks for your details.
Michelle
You are very welcome Michelle. I don’t believe but a handful of cruises dock in Nome. More popular is the inside passage. But, you will love a visit to Nome and the entire area. I would start out in Anchorage or Fairbanks and take a rental car to Nome. You will love it Michelle! Thanks for visiting beach travel destinations.
Hey Leahrae,
I really want to see Alaska’s 19 hours of sunlight and stay in a bed and breakfast or Aurora Inn and Suites (I’m leaning toward Aurora Inn and Suites). I can’t wait until the day when I am able to take frequent trips around the world when I really want to.
Thanks for the article.
I lived in Alaska 22 years, and I loved the long days. It was the very short days I did not like. I prefer the Aurora Inn as well. I hope you can visit Nome Alaska soon! Please let me know if you need any additional information.
You just added Nome, Alaska to my bucket list Leahrae. It just looks too good to pass up. From the Carrie M. McClain Memorial Museum
and Gold Dredge to Nome Beach and the Hot Springs, I never thought what seems to be obscure place could keep me so busy. That is just splendid.
I do have a question though. Do you know if there is any surfing at Nome Beach? I live in Santa Cruz and I like to surf as much as I can in as many different places as possible. This looks like another place to check out. I look forward to reading your response.
Thank you so much and I hope you make it a great day!
Yes Alex, there is surfing in Nome! You will find plenty of big waves for surfing here. Nome and Yakutat are both great for surfing actually 🙂 I am glad you enjoyed and hope you can visit Nome Alaska soon! Thanks for stopping by.
I always enjoy reading your articles on travel destinations. You always promote the essence and the uniqueness of each destination, convincing would-be travelers, this is the one I need to bookmark, and make serious plans for, and traveling to this destination a reality. Thanks for sharing, and I be back!
I am glad you enjoy my travel posts 🙂 Alaska IS definitely a place everyone should vacation to, at least once. I can’t describe the beauty and uniqueness, but it is wonderful. Thanks for stopping by!
I would love to get away to a remote place like this. I’ve heard of Nome but knew nothing about it until now. The Nome gold adventures is something I never would have thought about but it interests me and it would be enjoyable.
The Alaska Adventure rentals is something else that caught my attention! This is an awesome thing to try! But the Hot Springs? That’s something I never experienced. I’m guessing it’s like being in a big hot tub? 🙂
In any event, Nome is on my list when traveling to Alaska. The only negative is that there’s too much to do and see! 🙂
Thanks for an excellent article on Nome!
Thank you Rob for visiting. I can tell you that a hot springs in Alaska, wonderful experience. I guess you could say that is is like a giant hot tub. Some places it runs off into the river, and you can sit right in the river with the hot water flowing over you…amazing! Thanks for stopping by and I hope you can visit Nome Alaska soon!
Excellent post, I really enjoyed the reading! I love so much Alaska; I think it is one of the most beautiful places on earth:)
We want to travel to Alaska next year in June when the weather is pleasant so we can participate in outdoor activities. The Aurora Inn looks beautiful and it is on the seafront, what could be better:) I’ll contact them right now so I can already book our rooms. Just a question, please. Is the water warm enough to go swimming at that time of the year? I don’t want to overpack:)
Thank you for this useful article!
Oh you will have a wonderful time Daniella! The weather will be great in June, and the water will be warm enough to swim in. You can never “over pack” for Alaska. As sometimes it can be unpredictable. For the most part though, it will be beautiful with long sunny days. Thanks for your visit to Nome Alaska!