A unique aspect of summer in Alaska is the “midnight sun.” From mid-March through late-September, Anchorage receives more hours of sunlight than anywhere else in the U.S. And on June 21, the summer solstice, the sun barely goes down at all, just dipping below the horizon for a bit before rising again. Locals are accustomed to the extra light, but if you're visiting, you might find it challenging to sleep in your hotel room when the sun doesn't go down. With some advance preparation and flexibility, you can get plenty of rest.

Getting Ready to Travel to Alaska

If you're coming from the east, start preparing for the time zone change a few weeks before leaving for your summer trip to Anchorage. Shift your bedtime and wake-up time by an hour each day, until you're on a schedule close to what it will be in Alaska. For example, if you live in the Eastern Time Zone, you're four hours ahead of Anchorage, while Pacific Time Zone states are only an hour ahead. This way, you'll naturally feel tired at a reasonable bedtime and have an easier time falling asleep. 

The exception is for travelers planning a short visit to Alaska. If you'll only be in town for a few days, stay as close to your normal sleep-wake times at home as possible to make it easier to adjust to your regular sleep schedule when you return.

Sleeping When the Sun Is Up

Your hotel in Anchorage will likely be prepared for long days with blackout drapes and shades that darken the room. Close the drapes when you return to the hotel for the night before bed to avoid exposure to daylight that will keep you from sleeping. 

Keep in mind that a darkened room can keep you from waking up since you won't have natural daylight streaming through the windows at dawn. Set an alarm to ensure you don't sleep all day.

Wearing a lightweight sleep mask to block out extra light can also help you get some rest. Avoid alcohol too close to bedtime as well. A nightcap might seem like it will help you sleep, but alcohol disrupts sleep and causes more frequent waking. 

The extra daylight in Anchorage allows visitors and locals to enjoy more activities. If you can't sleep, try a nighttime hike or kayaking adventure or attend one of the many midnight sun events. Then return to a comfortable hotel room at the Creekwood Inn in Anchorage. This budget-friendly, historic inn has roots that go back to the Gold Rush era and offers clean, quiet rooms close to activities. Make a reservation by calling (907) 258-6006, and learn more about their unique story online.