Okay...I have to admit to being more of a warm weather person & I've never been to Alaska. I know several who have and in fact, it was my uncle's favorite place...he was quite the fisherman. I've tried to keep the list centered around Anchorage since that is where the most people are and the most stuff too! Not to worry; there are plenty of the things everyone thinks about when they think Alaska reasonably close.
The Iditarod Dog Sled Race is a race from Anchorage to Nome that starts the first Saturday in March in downtown Anchorage. There are actually two routes used and the route is about 55 miles longer than the 975 miles is odd numbered years.
In Anchorage, the saying is there's never a bad time to fish! While Ice fishing is popular during winter, if you want those beautiful salmon you hear so much about you should go in June or July. Besides...the weather is much milder during the summer.
There are plenty of skiing options near Anchorage and skiers can expect to enjoy 7.5 hours of daylight in December and about 16 hours of daylight in April. The cream of the crop for nearby skiing has to be Ayleska Resort--about 40 miles from Anchorage and it is rated a Top 25 destinationby Skiing Magazine.
There are also plenty of places to pan for gold in the Anchorage area...both for free and for a fee. Do some research and be careful where you try to pan for free...you don't want to be on someone else's claim! If you pay the fee, you'll probably find some gold and you won't have to invest in any equipment.
Alaska is home to a lot of wildlife and you can expect to see some in the Anchorage area. In fact, Anchorage is said to be the only major city with a moose problem. There are also a lot of bears in the area. Keep your eyes open for eagles and caribou too. Since you're near the water you might see whales, otters and others too!
For me...the number one item on the list might be keep warm! But I was suprised to learn that during June and July, the temperatures are pretty reasonable. Some say that a cruise is the way to go...depends if you want to see or do.
I have not been to this state, so I read your well presented list with a listening mind. I have visited all 50 except this one and Hawaii.
select one here...