Summer Activities To Relieve Stress and Have Fun in Wasilla
Get me out of this house!
Sometimes, all we need is to stay at home for a while and do absolutely nothing. Other times, home is the last place we want to be. It can be hard to figure out what to get out and do without driving all the way down to Anchorage. We’re here to help you find the perfect summer activities for you and your family.
Never underestimate movement.
If you’re unable to get out of the house, don’t underestimate how a little movement can improve your mood. Now this doesn’t mean you have to go run a marathon or lift weights. Mood-boosting movement can be as simple as having a living room dance party with your family. Let loose and dance like no one’s watching! If the weather is cooperating, set up some games on the back porch and soak up some sunshine. You can even set up a hammock and read a book—depending on how chaotic the kids want to be, that is.
Go for a hike.
Well, depending on how cold it is, of course. The world we live in is absolutely gorgeous. Go get an up-close view of the mountains, whether on a long hike or a short outdoor adventure.
If you’re looking for a full-day hike, head out to the Gold Mint Trail for either an 8- or 16-mile adventure. There is even a cabin you can spend the night in!
If you’re looking for something a little less extreme, you and your family can tackle the Bodenburg Butte Trail, a 1.5-mile hike. This trail boasts some astounding views for both the experienced and novice hikers.
Get to the lakes.
OK, we hear you. You’re not a hiker, but you still want to drag that family outside and burn off some energy. AK Paddlesports is located within driving distance of five different lakes, making it the perfect place to rent some gear and get on the water. Occasionally, they will take a trailer to Mirror Lake to rent out equipment on the spot. For times and dates on that, be sure to keep an eye on their Facebook page!
Even if you don’t want to rent anything to get on the water, spending the day at the lake can be incredibly therapeutic. The color blue is actually known to have a calming effect, so soak up all that vitamin D you can and enjoy the sounds of nature!
Take a day trip.
Why not take a bit of a day trip to escape some stress? Enjoy the scenery and explore somewhere you’ve never been. Try taking the family on an adventure-filled trip to Independence Mine. This old gold mine was closed after WWII and is filled with some beautiful old buildings. It’s about an hour north and is a place you could easily spend an entire day. There are 1.5 miles of hiking trails around the park and guided tours in the afternoon.
Tiny Trains, Big Fun
This adorable train museum is filled with miniature trains. But they’re not just for staring at. These tiny trains were meant to be ridden by both children and adults. The ride goes through the woods and takes roughly half an hour, perfect for the little ones who can’t sit still for too long.
Live like a tourist.
Get online and plan a staycation. Pretend you’ve never explored the area before and plot out things you and your family can do. Trust us, there are more than likely things listed on TripAdvisor that you haven’t gotten around to just yet.
Go sledding.
This might very well be considered a touristy thing to do, but if you haven’t gone to the Iditarod Headquarters and taken a ride, why not give it a go? If you’re not one to sled yourself, it doesn’t hurt to explore the museum—you’re bound to learn some new things about the Iditarod and other local races.
Beer (or pizza), anyone?
Depending on which location you choose, this brewery can be a great night for the parents or a pizza extravaganza with the kids. They offer all sorts of locally brewed beers, including seasonal specials and year-round favorites. If you’re not there for the beer, they offer multiple kinds of mouth-watering pizzas.
Reindeer
This local reindeer farm is filled with things for the entire family to do. There are specific activities for the winter season, including some Christmas-specific ones, and then an entirely different set of activities for the summer. This farm is complete with 100 different reindeer, bison, and elk, and there’s even a moose named Lucy.
Transportation Museum
This museum is a great place to take the kids. There are exhibits throughout its 15 acres, including a six-car train from WWII filled with photos and stories about the history of mining in Alaska. Inside the building, you can learn about the male and female bush pilots who helped make Alaska what it is today.
The team at Valley Dental Clinic can’t wait to hear about your summer adventures.
Sometimes, it can be difficult to find something to do locally, but it is important to get up and move, whether you stay inside or not. So get out there and make some memories! You won’t regret it.
While you’re planning your summer activities, don’t forget to book your preventive dental checkup with the team at Valley Dental Clinic. We can’t wait to hear about all the adventures you and your family are having this season. Book an appointment today!