Homer, Highlights of Homer City
4 HoursModerateOutdoors | Wildlife | Walking | Essentials Collection
Take a harbor tour of the amazing intertidal life right under your feet at Homer Harbor Docks! This tour is the most educational fun you can have on the Homer spit! A trained naturalist will guide you through an incredible exploration of invertebrate life living on and around the Homer Harbor Docks. Next, you will visit the Alaska Islands and Ocean Visitor Center, the headquarters for Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge. In the visitor center, naturalists offer information and tips on wildlife viewing, refuge information and points of interest. Your self-guided tour of the Center features sculpted re-creations of wildlife and settings, interactive stations and a simulated journey through the nation's most far reaching wildlife refuge. The indoor exhibits feature a Bering Sea bird rookery, dramatic re-creations and Aleutian artifacts, and a field camp where you can delve into the fascinating work of biologists. Many of the programs are outdoor experiences. You will be guided down to the Beluga Slough, just a short stroll down a slope, to explore the beach. The trail passes through a little wooded area, where it's not unusual to sight moose and other wildlife. The Center will also guide hikes down through the wetlands to Bishop's Beach to watch for sea life like whales, otters, sea lions and more. There is also a theater which features award-winning movies such as "Journey of the Tiglax." The Tiglax is a boat that cares for wildlife in the nature preserves. Your next stop will include The Pratt Museum, which is a regional natural history museum with exhibits exploring life around Kachemak Bay in South Central Alaska. Indoor exhibits include early homesteading, Native Alaskan traditions, local contemporary art, and an exploration of the marine and terrestrial life around Kachemak Bay. Outdoor exhibits feature a historic cabin, botanical gardens and a nature trail.
Please note: Wear comfortable hiking or walking shoes (no open toed sandals, flats or high heels). Bring layered clothing and a light rain poncho.