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If you will be spending some time in America's largest state, be prepared for a possible sighting of the Aurora Borealis or plan a cruise to see things like glaciers that you can't see anywhere in the "lower forty-eight." One of the best places to plan to stay is Anchorage.

If you are into the "great outdoors" head for Prince William Sound and rent a bike. If it is at all possible, plan to take a camera with you in your backpack whether you are riding bike, driving, or hiking. Some of the tours to see fjords and glaciers leave from here, so be sure to have your activities planned out well enough in advance.

Another outdoor activity would be a visit to the Katmai National Park and Preserve . . . and if you are looking forward to some Alaskan skiing, it is certainly a good choice because of the natural snow cover that stays around for so long during a year. You will be able to ski downhill or cross country. There are many hiking trails around Anchorage, too. Some are flat and some are uphill, but there will probably be a trail that will be perfect for your tastes and needs.

If you prefer wildlife that is seen in controlled areas instead of out in the open, you may enjoy spending some time at the Alaska Zoo found here. You will see animals from all over the world in addition to those that are native to Alaska.

If you enjoy water sports, there are numerous lakes around this area for that sort of activity. It is the same story with museums in and around Anchorage; there are many museums of numerous genres. One of the newest was opened in 1999 and it is called the Alaska Native Heritage Center. Plan to spend at least a couple of hours here learning about the cultures in this part of the world.

If one thing on your agenda list while visiting Alaska is to see Mt. McKinley, you will be able to book a tour while here. You can see the splendid view of the mountain by small plane, via the water, or you can even take a train ride to get a closer view of McKinley.

There are many adventures that you will be able to plan, and that is why you need to research before your trip. As one example, white water rafting is popular in some of the canyons in the area. If you enjoy fishing, rent a rod and you will experience some of the best fishing you have ever known. If you are an avid fisherperson, in fact, you may want to plan your trip for when the salmon are running.

So what else will you be able to find to keep busy in Anchorage? Try some of these or research and find even more.

-- Music, theater, or dance at the Anchorage Concert Association
-- Mahay's Canyon
-- Talkeetna Canyon
-- Far North Bicentennial Park
-- Chugach State Park
-- Alaska Botanical Garden
-- Alaska Aviation Heritage Museum
-- Anchorage Museum of History and Art
-- Alaska Museum of Natural History

Last but certainly not least, there are some places in the area that offer dog sled rides. If you can find one, by all means take advantage of it; it's one thing that makes Alaska very special.