Alaska is home to breathtaking scenery, exotic marine life, and handcrafted local treasures that can only be found here. If you haven't been to Alaska yet, what are you waiting for?! Hop on a cruise and explore the charming port towns of Juneau, Sitka, Ketchikan, and more, or chase the northern lights in Fairbanks or Denali State Park.

Whatever you do, be sure to bring home with you Alaska souvenirs that capture the essence of the 49th state. From locally sourced wild salmon to vibrant native art, here are the 10 best Alaska gifts that'll wow your loved ones.

1. Candy Bark

Alaskan candy bark is a popular treat that combines creamy chocolate with crunchy toppings like nuts, dried fruits, and candies. This sweet treat is a perfect combination of flavors and textures that resemble the beauty of Alaska's landscapes, providing a unique taste that you won't find anywhere else. FYI, Cranberry bark is quintessentially Alaskan and makes an excellent gift for anyone with a sweet tooth. Be sure to include this flavor in your souvenir list and bring it home to your friends and family.

2. Fudge Sampler

Over the years, Alaskan fudge has gained immense popularity among locals and tourists alike, with the Alaskan Fudge Company in Juneau being one of the most popular fudge shops in the state. Each batch of decadent fudge is handcrafted using locally sourced, high-quality ingredients and baked fresh daily. It's an Alaska souvenir that you definitely don't want to miss out on. If you can't decide on a flavor to gift, just pick out a few bite-size pieces and create the ultimate fudge sampler.

3. Salmon

If you're looking for a perfect gift for seafood lovers, consider bringing them some wild Alaskan salmon. Alaska is renowned for producing some of the best salmon in the world, and it prides itself on sustainable fishing practices. Most slogans promise wild-caught, no-farm salmon, ensuring the highest quality and best taste. You can pack a slim and decorative salmon box in your carry-on or checked bag to bring home a taste of the wild, just like the one pictured above. Alternatively, you can grab a few cans of sockeye salmon for an easy and convenient option.

4. Birch Syrup

Birch syrup is a great Alaska souvenir because it's unique to the region and is sustainably harvested by tapping the trees. The syrup has a sweet and slightly smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with pancakes and waffles. Plus, it's a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, including glazes for meats, dressings for salads, and marinades for fish. So, if you're looking for a tasty and distinctive Alaska gift, consider bringing home a bottle of delicious birch syrup.

5. Ulu Knife

The ulu knife is a traditional Inuit cutting tool that has been used for centuries in Alaska and other Arctic regions. Its unique shape and design make it a versatile tool for cutting, slicing, and chopping a variety of foods. It's also become a popular Alaska souvenir because of its cultural significance and practical use in the kitchen. The ulu knife's curved blade and comfortable handle make it easy to use for a variety of tasks, and it's a great way to bring home a piece of Alaskan history and culture.

6. Ivory Billiken

The Ivory Billiken is a small, smiling, elf-like monkey figurine depicted in a sitting position with a neat row of stubby toes pointing up at the sky. It is believed to bring good fortune and happiness to the wearer or keeper. Although it originated in Kansas City, Missouri in the early 1900s, the charm gained popularity throughout the United States in what was known as "billikenmania." Eskimo carvings of the no-worry symbol dating back to 1909 can also be found. Even today, you can find billikens made of ivory and other materials in souvenir shops in Alaska, reflecting the charm's enduring appeal.

7. Gold Nugget Jewelry

Alaska is renowned for the famous Klondike Gold Rush of 1898. Even today, gold nugget jewelry remains a popular Alaska souvenir for visitors to the state. The jewelry is crafted using authentic gold nuggets that are found in Alaska's streams and rivers. After carefully selecting the nuggets, they're polished to create stunning jewelry pieces such as necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and rings. Whether you're looking to up your fashion game or buying a one-of-a-kind keepsake for someone else, gold nugget jewelry from Alaska is a unique and special way to do it.

8. Native Art

The art of Alaska's native communities, including the Iñupiat, Yupik, Aleut, Eyak, Tlingit, Haida, and others, is deeply rooted in their cultural heritage. It encompasses a diverse range of traditional crafts such as carvings, masks, and baskets that showcase the distinct natural environment and way of life in Alaska. When you purchase vibrant Native art in Alaska, you are supporting the preservation of this rich cultural tradition, which only Alaska natives are permitted by federal law to create.

9. Alaskan Gems

Alaska is home to various precious gems, including jade and garnet. These gems are popular for their exceptional quality and are often used to create intricate jewelry pieces. As a result, they make for great Alaskan souvenirs that visitors can take home with them. The unique natural environment and mineral-rich soil in Alaska contribute to the beauty and popularity of these gems, making them a must-see for any visitor exploring the state.

10. Burl Bowls

Burl bowls are handcrafted wooden bowls made from trees with burls, which are a type of malignancy that generally causes trees to decay. Although burls can be damaging to trees, they're valued by furniture makers and wood sculptors because of the beautiful patterns and marks they create on wood. These bowls are a popular Alaska souvenir due to their unique and rustic appearance, as well as the artisanal techniques required to carefully carve and shape each piece. This practical Alaska gift is perfect for cooks, as it adds flair to any kitchen or table.

One More Thing ...

If you're planning a trip to Alaska and need high-quality travel gear, make sure to visit our online shop. We offer a wide range of top-notch products, from thoughtfully designed toiletry bags that can store all of your personal items to lightweight travel blankets that will keep you warm and cozy.