How to Get to Nome, Alaska: 2026 Travel Guide
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Nome is one of those places that feels like a hidden gem, tucked away and shrouded in a bit of mystery.
Except, in reality, there is nothing hidden about it at all—Nome sits exposed on raw, treeless land facing the intimidating and beautiful Bering Sea.
When I lived in Alaska, I traveled to Nome twice, and my experiences there left quite an impression on me. I enjoy visiting unusual places.
Unlike the more accessible spots in Alaska, getting to Nome is a little adventure in itself, and that’s part of its charm. So let’s dig into the curiosity that lies around getting there!
⭐️ Looking for a place to stay in Nome? I’ve got you covered! Check out my post for guidance on where to stay in Nome, Alaska.
Getting to Know Nome, Alaska
Nome, Alaska is by far the most unique city I have ever visited. It sits on the northern coast of Norton Sound surrounded by the Seward Peninsula.
It’s like a living museum of the American gold rush era and there are no trees in Nome! There was one little spruce tree in town that I walked to see years ago, but I think it is gone now.
Nome is a scant few air miles west of Fairbanks (522 to be exact!) and it became famous overnight due to the great gold rush at the turn of the 20th century.
It also stands as the gateway to the Bering Land Bridge National Preserve which is a stunning protected area that once connected the United States to Asia more than 13,000 years ago!
The Iditarod Sled Dog Race, perhaps the most well-known claim to fame for Nome, ends at the iconic burled arch downtown in March after starting in Anchorage at the beginning of the month.
I think this would be an AMAZING event to time a visit to Nome around! When I lived in Fairbanks we loved being able to watch the start of the Yukon Quest downtown. There are some great Iditarod tours available if you are interested.
The Iditarod also honors the epic 1925 serum run, where mushers and their dog teams raced to deliver life-saving medicine to Nome during the diphtheria epidemic.
Where is Nome, Alaska?
Nome, Alaska, sits on the edge of the Bering Sea on the western coast of the state. It’s roughly 539 miles northwest of Anchorage, nestled on the southern side of the Seward Peninsula.
This location places Nome within the Arctic region in a unique geographical setting with both stunning tundra landscapes and epic coastal views.
Despite its remote positioning, Nome acts as a significant hub in the region, connecting smaller villages and communities across western Alaska.
Traveling to Nome, Alaska
There are NO roads from the continental United States that lead directly to Nome, which adds to its allure and sense of isolation.
It is NOT on the Alaska Highway System either! But, here’s how you can reach this remote town:
By Air
The most common and practical way to reach Nome is by air. Nome Airport serves as a regional hub in northwest Alaska and is accessible by air from Anchorage.
► I flew from Fairbanks ➡ Anchorage ➡ Nome when I traveled there. There are no direct flights from Fairbanks to Nome.
- Alaska Airlines is one of the major carriers offering regular flights to Nome, making the city accessible from Anchorage with just about a 1-hour and 20-minute flight.
- Bering Air doesn’t fly into Nome from greater Alaska but rather provides regional service from Nome to smaller communities around the Seward Peninsula and the Bering Strait. They also offer flightseeing tours around Nome!
PRO TIP: Flights to and from Nome can get delayed or canceled due to weather so give yourself a couple of days for padding on either end of your trip to allow for flexibility.
For example, on my first flight to Nome, we had to land in Kotzebue (or Qikiqtaġruk) for a couple of hours. I honestly don’t remember why but there was likely a minor mechanical issue. So, we made the most of it and enjoyed grabbing some delicious Chinese food at Empress, which is within walking distance of the airport. I enjoyed checking out another remote Alaskan village!
My second trip to Nome was even more memorable because my flight home to Fairbanks was canceled due to the weather. I ended up staying another 48 hours in Nome and took it as an opportunity to explore the town further and try out a couple of other restaurants. I love a good adventure!
Alternative Travel Options
- Charter Flights: For a more personalized travel experience, charter flights can be arranged from various locations within Alaska. This option offers flexibility and a unique perspective of the stunning Alaskan landscapes.
- Cruise Ships: Though less common, some cruise ships include Nome on their itinerary, especially those focusing on Arctic or Northwest Passage routes. Arriving by sea offers a unique vantage point of Nome’s coastal beauty and the Bering Sea.
⭐️ Check out this epic 28-Night Alaska Cruise that includes Nome!
Adventure Route to Nome
- Iditarod Snowmachine Trail: Sure, it might not be the most conventional way to travel, but imagine following the race on a snowmobile! If you are experienced and prepared for it — it is certainly not an impossibility.
It’s not a practical means of transportation for most people, but following the race on snowmobile would be a memorable experience!
Exploring Nome: Things to do and see
Once in Nome, getting around is part of the adventure! I spent my days in Nome walking around and exploring, and this suited me well. I stayed with my hosts (I was there for work and teaching a class for UAF Northwest Campus) so I had transportation if needed.
You definitely won’t need a car if you visit Nome and just want to stay in town. But the surrounding areas can be explored by rental vehicle! I highly recommend taking a couple of days to explore the outskirts.
The Kougarok Road (Nome-Taylor Road), the Teller Road, and the Nome-Council Road are among the few that offer scenic drives through the Nome region and lead to worthwhile destinations such as Salmon Lake Campground (40 miles north of Nome on the Kougarok Road).
Some places (such as Pilgrim Hot Springs, about 65 miles from Nome) require no-fee recreational use permits.
Always check with the visitor center before heading on these adventures to confirm you are well-prepared and have the permission(s) needed. They have land-ownership information and can provide advice and direction.
If you’d like to delve deeper into the wilderness or visit remote locations like Serpentine Hot Springs or the Bering Land Bridge National Preserve, local tour operators offer guided day trips that provide easier access to these special areas.
Here are some other things to do and places to eat/drink in Nome that I recommend:
1. Nome Visitors Center
I recommend you begin your Nome adventure here, gathering all the info you need to explore the town, learn about local history and culture, and get tips on the best spots to visit.
💡 Ask for the “Walking in Nome” handout and enjoy a self-led historical walking tour around town!
2. Roam Nome (Birdwatching and More)
Owned by the fabulous Carol Gales, an acquaintance of mine and a resident of Nome since 1996, Roam Nome should be at the top of your list!
Carol is enthusiastic and has a wonderfully vibrant personality. I highly recommend connecting with her. She’s been birding in Nome for 10 years and is a history buff, so she has lots to share.
3. Front Street
Wander downtown Nome! Walk the main road, Front Street, which runs along the shore of the Bering Sea and is dotted with shops and historic sites that immerse you in the culture here!
Be sure to stop into Maruskiya’s for authentic pieces from Inupiaq, St. Lawrence Island Yupik, and Yup’ik Alaska Native artists.
4. Bering Land Bridge Visitor Center
The National Park Service Visitors Center is right on Front Street in the Sitnasuak Building. I loved stepping in here on my trip to Nome.
They are very welcoming and the displays are super cool. I am always a sucker for natural history displays with pelts, skulls, and interesting facts.
5. Gold Panning
You have to jump right into gold panning in Nome! AKAU Alaska Gold & Resort helps you experience the excitement of panning for gold in hands-on adventures that let you explore Alaska’s gold mining history.
6. Carrie M. McLain Memorial Museum
This museum is wonderful and I came upon it on my second trip to Nome when I had more time to explore. The admission is FREE!
They have a long-term exhibit: Nome: Hub of Cultures and Communities Across the Bering Strait. You can learn more about Nome’s captivating history, from its gold rush days to the indigenous cultures.
7. Anvil Mountain
Anvil Mountain is about 10 miles outside of town but worth it. You can hike up to see the remains of the White Alice Communications System and at the same time be rewarded with stunning views of the Nome area looking out at the Bering Sea.
8. Mingle with Nome Residents
This may not be obvious to some but it’s worth mentioning that Nome and its community are so welcoming and eager to have visitors. Don’t stick to a solid schedule and leave time to wander!
I recall stopping into many places where I had great conversations such as the Nome Nugget (Alaska’s oldest newspaper) and a little trailer (I don’t recall the name) with sweet Native jewelry and supplies with an owner I spoke to for thirty minutes about art and living in Alaska. I bought leather for bookmaking and some earrings made from caribou antlers.
You’d be missing out if you didn’t converse with the people who live here and make this city so special.
Top Eateries in Nome
For a small town, you have some great options!
- Milano’s Pizzeria on Front Street: I loved walking into Milano’s expecting just pizza and being able to order Bibimbap! You’ll find in Nome that many places serve an eclectic selection. You can tuck into satisfying Italian cuisine but also order tempura!
- Pingo Bakery-Seafood House: A culinary gem open for breakfast and lunch where you can enjoy freshly baked pastries and the freshest fish and chips from Norton Sound. Try their seafood omelet!
- Airport Pizza: I enjoyed several great meals here. Besides yummy hearty pizzas and traditional entrees in this classic local joint, you can also order tasty ramen, kalbi, and sushi rolls!
- Breakers Bar: You can dive into the local scene with good food and great stories at this bar, a true taste of Nome’s hospitality. Don’t miss out on the chance to mingle here!
🛌 Got your flights and route sorted? Now it’s time to plan where to stay. Here’s my full guide to the best hotels and places to stay in Nome, Alaska, from modern suites to historic inns and cozy B&Bs.
The Wrap Up on How to Get to Nome, Alaska
Traveling to Nome offers a glimpse into a part of Alaska that few get to see! I definitely recommend traveling here if you appreciate remote communities with a unique vibe.
I feel so lucky I traveled to Nome twice, was immersed in the welcoming community, and had a chance to embrace the experience of staying there for a few days at a time!
Have questions? Send them my way. And, by all means, comment below and share if you have been to Nome or have plans to go!
I LIKE TO VISIT NOME ALASKA WITH MY MOTORCYLCLE.
I lived in Nome for 6 months in 2009-10 & worked a temporary assignment at the special procedures section with a few days in the clinic; all as an RN. I loved the people including the 2 ladies working with me when I was in special procedures. At 2am, one morning I walked & met a local man who said, I looked “new in town.” I told him I had been in Nome for a month (at that time). He responded, “Welcome to Nome.” They have a fisherman’s building near the water where the catches of the night before are brought & put on ice. Our group bought halibut & huge king crab at 2 different visits. Could not have been any fresher. Good advice to take a weekend & rent a vehicle to travel to Teller (an Eskimo village), to Council (East) where Nome cabins are & salmon fishing is in the rivers.