What to expect: The hotel is composed of the four-story north tower and a newer eight-story south tower. Businesspeople and conventioneers comprise the hotel's winter clientele, while groups and cruise-ship passengers congregate here during the summer. Public areas are smoke-free year-round, but smoking rooms are available during summer months. Also available seasonally are a complimentary Continental breakfast.

Amenity highlights: Wireless Internet access is complimentary in the lobby area, and a business center provides complimentary high-speed Internet access. Open year-round is the Red Lantern Steaks and Spirits. Coffee and snacks are available for purchase in the gift shop. The hotel provides complimentary 24-hour transportation to and from the airport and railroad station.

Insider tip: On the University of Alaska campus, the Museum of the North features over a million objects in its natural history and cultural collections. Exhibits include highlights of Alaska's five major geographic regions, historical paintings, photographs of the landscape and wildlife, and ancient ivory carvings.