Barrow, officially known by its Iñupiat name Utqiaġvik, is the northernmost community in the United States, located above the Arctic Circle on the shores of the Chukchi Sea. This remote town offers a rare and authentic glimpse into life in the Arctic, where the sun doesn’t set for weeks in the summer—or rise for weeks in the winter.

Utqiaġvik is home to a strong and resilient Iñupiat community whose traditions remain deeply connected to the land, sea, and seasons. Visitors can learn about the local culture and history at the Iñupiat Heritage Center, explore iconic landmarks like the whale bone arch on the beach, and experience the extremes of Arctic weather and daylight.

The town is also one of the best places in Alaska to witness the Aurora Borealis in winter or the Midnight Sun in summer. The environment is stark, breathtaking, and unlike anywhere else—defined by tundra, icy shores, and a rich subsistence lifestyle passed down through generations.

Getting here requires planning, but for adventurous travelers looking to understand Alaska beyond the tourist trail, Barrow offers something truly special: culture, community, and Arctic wonder