27 Best Things To Do In Homer, Alaska

things to do in homer ak
Ruth Alexis
Ruth Alexis 
Published
| 11 min read

Homer, Alaska is a small but vibrant seaside city located near the Kachemak Bay on the Kenai Peninsula. A popular tourist spot and haunt for the locals over the weekend in this bustling town is Homer Spit Bay, an area of land by the beach lined with shops, art galleries, amazing restaurants, and sandy beach bars. If you are a nature lover keen on exploring the local wildlife, the Alaska Islands and Oceans Visitor Center are both must-visit locales for you and your family on this vacation. If the arts and culture scene are more of your thing, you should definitely make a stop at the quaint Pioneer Avenue and Pratt Museum, both of which house a wide range of local art and historical artefacts. If you are planning to visit Homer, Alaska, on your next vacation, below are some things to do in Homer, Alaska. Do check them out before flying off onto your Alaska trip.

1. Take a boat ride or enjoy hiking at Kachemak Bay State Park


Kachemak Bay State Park is a vast oceanfront park popular with hiking and nature enthusiasts. However, it is accessible only by boat or plane so you will likely have to make your own arrangements at the boating centre before your trip to the park. Kachemak Bay State Park offers a wide variety of hiking trails that suit varying experience levels, as well as a few campsites if you would like to experience living out in the wild for a night or two.

Kachemak Bay State Park

Address: Homer, AK 99603, USA

Website: Kachemak Bay State Park

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

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2. Unwind at the lovely Bishop’s Beach Park

Sunset views

Posted by Chad Girnus on Thursday, 26 September 2019

Bishop’s Beach Park is a great place for you to unwind and relax after a busy and fun day of sightseeing around Homer. It is made up of a beautiful shore with multiple picnic areas and barbecue grills for you to have a fun weekend out with the family. You can also walk along a tidewater trail and visit a nearby visitor center on your trip to Bishop’s Beach Park.

Bishop’s Beach Park

Address: Homer, AK 99603, USA

Website: Bishop’s Beach Park

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

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3. Go on a day tour with Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies


Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies is an education and wildlife centre built with the aim of fostering a love in people for nature and spreading knowledge of the unique, beautiful and diverse marine and coastal ecosystems of Kachemak Bay. The centre holds a wide variety of guided walks, group tours, educational programs and even an overnight camp program. If you are a nature lover keen on loading up on knowledge about the ecosystems in Alaska, Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies is a great place to go.

Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies

Address: 708 Smoky Bay Way, Homer, AK 99603, USA

Website: Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am – 5pm (closed on Sat & Sun)

Price: From 8 USD

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4. Catch a glimpse of the distant glaciers at Homer Spit


Alaska is home to many natural wonders and beautiful scenery. One of the most beautiful tide and sunset watching spots is Homer Spit, which is a geographical marvel in its own right. The spit is a long stretch of land that juts out into Kachemak Bay, where you can catch a glimpse of the distant glaciers out into the sea. The spit is also the home of the Homer Boat Harbor, where you can rent a boat out to explore the vast and wonderful ocean.

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5. Learn about local culture and history at Pratt Museum


For an affordable price of 10 USD, you will be able to gain entrance to Pratt Museum, a natural history museum dedicated to exploring marine and human life around Kachemak Bay in Homer, Alaska. The museum houses a wide range of collections, exhibits, and special programs focused not just on culture, but also science and art which you can browse through for an educational day out.

Pratt Museum

Address: 3779 Bartlett St, Homer, AK 99603, USA

Website: Pratt Museum

Opening hours: 10am – 6pm (daily)

Price: 10 USD

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6. Taste the exquisite wines at Bear Creek Winery


Bear Creek Winery sells a wide range of local and international-brand beers for you to sit back and relax after a long day of sightseeing. The winery also hosts some jazz, blues, and rock performers on stage from time to time. If you want to catch a performance on your trip to Bear Creek Winery while tasting some exquisite wines, be sure to check out their website for details before your trip to Homer, Alaska.

Bear Creek Winery

Address: 60203 Bear Creek Dr #9440, Homer, AK 99603, USA

Website: Bear Creek Winery

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 12pm - 6pm; Sun: 12pm - 4pm

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7. Browse through locally produced artwork and handcrafted items at Ptarmigan Arts

Posted by Ptarmigan Arts Gallery on Sunday, 21 July 2019

Ptarmigan Arts is one of Homer’s biggest art galleries, and is owned and operated solely by Alaskan artists. The gallery provides a platform for newcomers to the Homer art scene to showcase their work to a wider audience, but also includes the art pieces of some established Homer artists. The artworks put up at Ptarmigan Arts Gallery include not just oil paintings but also a wide variety of ceramics, woodwork, glass items, photographs, stone lithographs, jewellery, sculptures, and other Alaskan fine art items.

Ptarmigan Arts

Address: 471 E Pioneer Ave, Homer, AK 99603, USA

Website: Ptarmigan Arts

Opening hours: 10am – 6pm (daily)

Price: Free

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8. Enjoy a mesmerising view of the landscape from Seldovia Bay Ferry - Homer Terminal


Seldovia Bay Ferry provides quick and efficient ferry service between Seldovia and Homer in just 45 minutes. However, even if you do not plan to take a short trip to Seldovia, you can always drop by the ferry terminal to enjoy a mesmerising view of the ocean landscape as the light breeze blows in your hair. There are beautiful mountains and forests in the background for you to snap a shot to commemorate your trip to Homer.

Seldovia Bay Ferry - Homer Terminal

Address: Ramp 7/ JJ Dock, Homer Harbor, Homer, AK 99603, United States

Website: Seldovia Bay Ferry - Homer Terminal

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

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9. Check out the interesting exhibits at Alaska Islands and Ocean Visitor Center


Alaska Islands and Ocean Visitor Center educates its visitors about the huge numbers of seabirds on the island of Alaska. If you are a bird lover keen on finding out more about the various species of birds found in Alaska, along with more about their habitat, this is the place to go. You might even get the chance to catch sight of some rare birds at Alaska Islands and Ocean Visitor Center’s very own estuary.

Alaska Islands and Ocean Visitor Center

Address: 95 Sterling Hwy, Homer, AK 99603, USA

Website: Alaska Islands and Ocean Visitor Center

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am – 5pm (closed on Sun)

Price: Free

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10. Experience a horseback riding tour in Homer

Posted by Trails End Horse Adventures on Saturday, 15 September 2012

You can find out more about the various horseback riding tours in Homer at Homer Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center. If you want to see lots of scenery and wildlife such as the spruce chickens, eagles, goshawks, and northern harriers, a horseback riding tour would be perfect for you. Horseback riding will allow you to see much more of the beautiful scenery and wildlife that Alaska has to offer than you would if you had chosen to hike or walk because horses are able to navigate the bramble and bushes much better than humans. Get ready for a unique tour around Homer’s scenic natural spots!

Trails End Horse Adventures

Address: 201 Sterling Highway

Website: Trails End Horse Adventures

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11. Pay homage at Seafarer’s Memorial


The Seafarer’s Memorial is an ongoing project dedicated to the lives of the many fishermen lost at sea throughout the years. It is made up of a wall of bricks that continues to expand. Brass plaques on the inside walls of the pillars are dedicated for those who pass on at sea. Check out this intriguing and beautiful work-in-progress but also stop by to offer your thoughts.

Seafarer’s Memorial

Address: 4535 Homer Spit Rd, Homer, AK 99603, United States

Website: Seafarer’s Memorial

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

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12. Enjoy a fishing trip with Manns Charter Service

Arctic Addiction is tearin it up out there! Another great day on the water......Happy Independence Day!!!

Posted by Manns Charter Service on Friday, 5 July 2019

Do you want to go fishing out in the Arctic Ocean, for fresh and delicious fish such as the halibut or the salmon? Manns Charter Service can make the entire journey seamless and comfortable for you. During the peak fishing season, fish even longer than your body can be caught! If you want to snap a photo of yourself caught in the action of reeling in a large fish, or take a celebratory photo of you with your bountiful catch, Manns Charter Service is the fishing trip of a lifetime you should definitely book.

Manns Charter Service

Address: Slip K-35 Homer Harbor

Website: Manns Charter Service

Price: From 330 USD

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13. Catch up on your reading at Homer Public Library

Posted by Homer Public Library on Friday, 9 February 2018

Not so keen on the outdoors? Well, fret not, because there is something for everyone in Homer. Homer Public Library is a large and spacious community library that houses a wide range of books. There are also events happening year-round such as the Preschool Story time, weekly book club, and weekly knitting club. All book lovers should definitely head down to Homer Public Library on their trip to Homer.

Homer Public Library

Address: 500 Hazel Avenue, Homer AK 99603

Website: Homer Public Library

Opening hours: Mon, Wed, Fri - Sat: 10am - 6pm; Tue, Thu: 10am - 8pm (closed on Sun)

Price: Free

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14. Choose from a wide array of cakes and cupcakes at Two Sisters Bakery

things to do in homer ak | choose from a wide array of cakes and cupcakes at two sisters bakery
Source: instagram

Choose from a wide array of delicious cakes, cupcakes and other sweet treats at Two Sisters Bakery. The bakery is the perfect place to stop by after a long day of sightseeing. They sell not just cakes and cupcakes but also great coffee and tea to go with your confectioneries.

Two Sisters Bakery

Address: 233 E Bunnell Ave, Homer, AK 99603, United States

Website: Two Sisters Bakery

Opening hours: Wed - Sat: 7am – 8:30pm; Mon - Tue: 7am – 5pm (closed on Sun)

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15. Go on a one-of-a-kind Bear Tour with Alaska Ultimate Safaris

Bears are everywhere right now!!!

Posted by Alaska Ultimate Safaris on Monday, 10 July 2017

Immerse yourself in the rugged wilderness of the Alaskan forests and plains with Alaska Ultimate Safaris. This is a unique and thrilling opportunity to get up-close and personal with wild bears. A helicopter will take you from Homer Airport to all the different bear-watching locations specially selected by the Alaska Ultimate Safaris. If you love an adventure and want to take your trip to Homer to the next level, Alaska Ultimate Safaris Helicopter tours are definitely for you.

Alaska Ultimate Safaris

Address: 3720 Faa St, Homer, AK 99603, United States

Website: Alaska Ultimate Safaris

Price: 799 USD per person

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16. Savour the different flavours at The Bagel Shop

Posted by The Bagel Shop on Saturday, 4 July 2015

The Bagel Shop is a great place to get all your baked goods from. The shop specialises in bagels, schmears, and sandwiches, but they also sell a wide range of other baked items such as cupcakes and puffs. Spend your afternoon browsing through all the different types of bagels in The Bagel Shop’s quaint interior.

The Bagel Shop

Address: 3745 East End Rd, Homer, AK 99603, United States

Website: The Bagel Shop

Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 7am – 4pm; Sat - Sun: 8am – 4pm

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17. Have a look inside Bunnell Street Arts Center

Posted by Bunnell Street Arts Center on Friday, 6 September 2019

Bunnell Street Arts Center is a great place for you to enjoy contemporary and imaginative art by the Alaskan coast. Bunnell Street Arts Center offers more than 50 educational activities per year and hosts monthly art exhibitions featuring both contemporary Alaskan artwork as well as international pieces for sale. You can also attend lectures and dance, music, and theatre performances at the Arts Center to nurture your inner artist while on vacation in Homer.

Bunnell Street Arts Center

Address: 106 W Bunnell Ave, Homer, AK 99603, United States

Website: Bunnell Street Arts Center

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 11am – 6pm; Sun: 12pm - 4pm

Price: Free

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18. Catch a live performance at Pier One Theatre

Posted by Pier One Theatre, Inc. on Monday, 12 August 2019

Pier One Theatre is a vibrant and breezy art space where you can go to watch a play put up by a local cast for the local audience. A wide range of imaginative and interesting plays are put up every week. Better yet, Pier One Theatre is located just a stone’s throw away from the Homer Spit, making it the perfect place to stop by after visiting Homer Spit for some bird-watching or for a stroll by the beach.

Pier One Theatre

Address: 3858 Homer Spit Rd, Homer, AK 99603, United States

Website: Pier One Theatre

Opening hours: Vary depending on performance

Price: From 5 USD

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19. Buy some local items from Homer Farmers Market


Homer Farmers Market is a great place to go to purchase fresh ingredients and food ranging from farm and garden to greenhouse produce. This is your chance to get hold of some delicious local produce to whip up an amazing meal at home for friends and family. You can also buy souvenirs and flowers to bring home to your loved ones or enjoy a meal on the spot from the many local food vendors there.

Homer Farmers Market

Address: 1155 Ocean Dr, Homer, AK 99603, United States

Website: Homer Farmers Market

Opening hours: Wed: 2pm – 5pm; Sat: 10am – 3pm (closed from Sun - Tue, Thu - Fri)

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20. Have a close encounter with native wildlife at Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge

Posted by Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge on Wednesday, 15 August 2012

The Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge is an American National Wildlife Refuge made up of a whopping 2,400 islands, headlands, rocks, spires, islets, and reefs in Homer, Alaska and beyond. You will definitely have to do some pre-trip planning before heading to the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge. Depending on whether you prefer to hike in one place or take a boat from island to island, you can arrange for a boat to accompany you throughout your day-long journey or just during the start and end of your trip.

Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge

Address: Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge, Homer, Alaska

Website: Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge

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21. Try American delicacies at La Baleine Café

Posted by La Baleine Cafe on Friday, 27 December 2013

La Baleine Café is the perfect place to go for a delicious breakfast or a quick lunch. The cafe specialises in take-out meals made from the freshest local ingredients. You can treat yourself to the Widgeon Deli Sandwich with herb-roasted turkey, fromage blanc, rhubarb chutney, garlic aioli, tomatoes, and mixed greens on a crusty roll, or the Alaska Crab Melt, a specialty and a local favourite that comprises cheddar, caramelised onion, braised leeks, tomato and avocado served open-face on garlic-toasted sourdough.

La Baleine Café

Address: 4460 Homer Spit Rd, Homer, AK 99603, United States

Website: La Baleine Café

Opening hours: Tue - Thu, Sat - Sun: 6am - 3pm; Fri: 6am - 3pm, 5pm - 7pm (closed on Mon)

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22. Quench your thirst with a couple of drinks at Kharacters Alaskan Bar


Kharacters Alaskan Bar is a vibrant bar that serves up a wide range of delicious cocktails and other drinks. They are known for their homey and authentic vibe and are very popular with the locals. You must head down to Kharacters Alaskan Bar for some great music, amazing people, and fantastic drinks if you love a good beer and are keen on experiencing an authentic Alaskan bar.

Kharacters Alaskan Bar

Address: 3851 Shelford St, Homer, AK 99603, United States

Website: Kharacters Alaskan Bar

Opening hours: 10am – 5am (daily)

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23. Relax your body and mind at Maria's Massage

Thanks Tiny Homer for the sweet nail polish rack!

Posted by Maria's Massage on Tuesday, 25 June 2019

Maria’s Massage is the perfect place for you to fully relax your body and mind after a hectic and fun day of sightseeing around Homer. Maria’s Massage offers not just massage but also pedicures and reflexology for its customers. If you are looking for an all-rounded wellness experience on your next trip to Homer, this is the place to go!

Maria's Massage

Address: 203 345 West, 7820, Sterling Hwy, Homer, AK 99603, United States

Website: Maria’s Massage

Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 9am – 6pm (closed on Sun & Mon)

Price: From 30 USD

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24. Shop your heart out at Homer Shores Boardwalk

Posted by Homer Shores Boardwalk on Wednesday, 31 July 2019

Homer Shores Boardwalk is a breezy boardwalk lined with shops and cafes. It is the perfect place to go for an evening stroll and a good meal with your friends and family. You can purchase many great souvenirs at any one of the small local shops lining the boardwalk too.

Homer Shores Boardwalk

Address: 4025 Homer Spit Rd, Homer, AK 99603, United States

Website: Homer Shores Boardwalk

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25. Grab a seat and a bucket full of popcorn at Homer Theatre


Homer Theatre is the place you need to go if you want to catch a weeknight movie blockbuster away from home. A wide range of the latest films, from Hollywood to indie films, are shown at this venue. Simply book your tickets online or go down to the theatre early to get your tickets before your show begins! Then, grab your seat and a bucket full of popcorn to watch your show.

Homer Theatre

Address: 106 W Pioneer Ave, Homer, AK 99603, United States

Website: Homer Theatre

Opening hours: Vary depending on showtimes

Price: From 7 USD

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26. Play a round of golf at Homer Golf Course

Posted by Homer Golf Course on Saturday, 20 May 2017

Homer Golf Course is a luxury golf course in Fritz Creek, Alaska where you can go to soak up some sun and have some fun playing golf. The golf course is known for its lush green scenery and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you are a novice or an expert golf player, there will be a course for you to play to your heart’s content.

Homer Golf Course

Address: 57172 East End Rd, Homer, AK 99603, United States

Website: Homer Golf Course

Opening hours: 9am – 9pm (daily)

Price: From 16 USD

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27. Say a prayer at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church

??Look to your covenant, O Lord, and forget not the life of your poor ones forever. Arise, O God, and defend your cause, and forget not the cries of those who seek you...??

Posted by Debra Massey on Saturday, 10 August 2019

St. John the Baptist Catholic Church is a stunning church you can visit to pray or pay your respects at. If you want to learn more about the Catholic faith or simply want to immerse yourself in culture and religion in an entirely different country, the St. John the Baptist Catholic Church welcomes people of all faith to their events and mass, which takes place every day in the mornings and evenings.

St. John the Baptist Catholic Church

Address: 255 Ohlson Ln, Homer, AK 99603, United States

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Many amazing things to do in Homer, Alaska

Homer, Alaska Aerial
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Scott McMurren used under CC BY 2.0

Whether you are looking for recommendations for beauty and wellness locations or great places to eat in Homer, Alaska, the above guide has it all. If you are planning to visit Homer, Alaska on your next vacation, be sure to check out the above things to do in Homer Alaska before flying off! See you there!

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Ruth is a freelance writer and novelist who loves snuggling, skating, and all things matcha.

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