Alaska’s Glacier Bay National Park (not to be confused with Glacier National Park in Montana) might be a slightly controversial choice.
As much of the park’s visited area is on water, most travelers enter via cruise ship — which is what I did.
Just two ships are given permits to enter the national park waters each day, with park service rangers and naturalists on board.
The experience of waking up in my room surrounded by glaciers was truly incredible. I ordered a pizza and enjoyed it on the balcony — a unique park experience I’ll likely never have again and will never forget.
This story was originally published in November 11, 2023 and most recently updated on September 24, 2026.
