Joy Kennelly

Los Angeles, CA
Group Travel Specialist

I love introducing clients to the latest travel, style, and lifestyle recommendations and designing the perfect trip tailored to their interests and dreams.

As an avid traveler myself, I have lived and traveled all over the United States an...
Learn more about me.

Alaska Travel Agent Expert

Day 1: Arrive in Anchorage, the largest city in Alaska, nestled between the Chugach Mountains and Cook Inlet. Spend the day exploring the city's attractions, such as the Anchorage Museum, Alaska Native Heritage Center, and the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. Enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at one of Anchorage's renowned restaurants. Day 2: Embark on a wildlife tour to Chugach State Park, just a short drive from Anchorage. Keep your eyes peeled for moose, bears, eagles, and other wildlife as you hike through the park's stunning wilderness. In the evening, dine at a local restaurant and savor fresh Alaskan cuisine. Day 3: Drive to Whittier, a picturesque town located on the shores of Prince William Sound. Board a glacier cruise and set sail through the pristine waters, surrounded by towering glaciers and rugged coastline. Keep your camera ready to capture sightings of whales, sea lions, and otters. Return to Anchorage in the evening and relax at your hotel. Day 4: Catch the Alaska Railroad's Denali Star train from Anchorage to Denali National Park. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Alaskan wilderness as you travel through forests, mountains, and river valleys. Arrive at Denali in the afternoon and check into your accommodation. Spend the rest of the day exploring the park's visitor center and taking in the stunning scenery. Day 5: Embark on a wildlife safari into the heart of Denali National Park. Keep an eye out for grizzly bears, caribou, wolves, and Dall sheep as you traverse the park's rugged terrain. Learn about the park's natural history and conservation efforts from your knowledgeable guide. In the evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and unwind after a day of adventure. Day 6: Experience the breathtaking beauty of Denali National Park from above on a scenic flightseeing tour. Fly over the park's vast wilderness and marvel at the towering peaks of Denali, North America's highest mountain. Keep your camera ready to capture aerial views of glaciers, valleys, and wildlife roaming below. After the flight, relax and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. Day 7: Depart Denali and drive south to the coastal town of Seward, located on the shores of Resurrection Bay. Along the way, stop at picturesque viewpoints and explore charming towns like Talkeetna and Palmer. Arrive in Seward in the afternoon and check into your hotel. Spend the rest of the day strolling along the waterfront and enjoying views of the surrounding mountains and sea. Day 8: Embark on a cruise of Kenai Fjords National Park, known for its stunning glaciers, abundant wildlife, and rugged coastline. Sail past towering icebergs and watch as calving glaciers crash into the sea. Keep your eyes peeled for humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, and puffins along the way. After the cruise, return to Seward and relax at your hotel. Day 9: Explore Exit Glacier, one of the most accessible glaciers in Alaska, located just outside of Seward. Take a guided hike along the trail to the glacier's terminus, learning about its formation and retreat over time. Marvel at the blue ice and listen to the sounds of the glacier creaking and groaning as it shifts. After the hike, return to Seward and enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at a local restaurant. Day 10: Depart Seward and drive to Homer, a charming seaside town located on the shores of Kachemak Bay. Along the way, stop at scenic viewpoints and enjoy the stunning coastal scenery. Arrive in Homer in the afternoon and check into your accommodation. Spend the rest of the day exploring the town's art galleries, shops, and restaurants. Day 11: Embark on a wildlife cruise of Kachemak Bay, known for its abundant marine life and stunning coastal scenery. Sail past rugged cliffs, rocky islands, and pristine beaches as you search for sea otters, seals, sea lions, and bald eagles. Keep your eyes peeled for whales breaching in the distance. After the cruise, return to Homer and relax at your hotel. Day 12: Experience world-class fishing in the waters around Homer on a guided fishing excursion. Cast your line for salmon, halibut, lingcod, and rockfish as you soak in the beauty of Kachemak Bay. Learn tips and techniques from your experienced guide and reel in a big catch to take home. In the evening, enjoy a seafood feast with your fresh-caught fish. Day 13: Take a flightseeing tour to Katmai National Park, home to one of the largest populations of brown bears in the world. Fly over the park's rugged landscape and land on a remote beach where bears gather to feed on salmon. After the tour, return to Homer and reflect on your unforgettable wildlife encounters. Day 14: Drive back to Anchorage, soaking in the scenic views along the way. Upon arrival, return your rental car and check into your hotel. Spend your final evening in Alaska reminiscing about your adventures and savoring a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. Day 15: Departure

Go to my main profile

Destination Expert:

  • Alaska
  • Anchorage
  • Denali National Park
  • Inside Passage
  • Hubbard Glacier

Travel Specialist:

  • Animals & Wildlife
  • Cruises
  • Family Vacations
  • Outdoor Activities & Sports

Top Travel Partners:

  • Princess Cruises®
  • Viator
  • Journese
  • Adventures By Disney
  • Rocky Mountaineer

Certifications/Awards:

  • Hawaii Romance Specialist Certification
  • Hawaii Destination Specialist Certification
  • Marriott Bonvoy Certificate of Completion
  • Marriott Luxury Brands Certificate of Completion
  • Viking Expeditions Certified Expert

Industry Affiliations:

©  Travel Leaders Group