Explore Big Lake’s Connection to Alaska’s Mechanical Heritage

Big Lake may be known for its outdoor recreation, but just a short drive away you’ll find a museum that tells the story of Alaska’s backcountry innovation. From tractors to transport planes, the Museum of Alaska’s exhibits reflect the same rugged spirit that built Big Lake’s cabins, homesteads, and trails. It’s a great day trip for families, visitors, or homeschoolers.

Big Lake visitors can uncover the machines, vehicles, and tools that powered Alaska’s growth.

How Big Lake Helped Shape Alaska’s Frontier

Big Lake families often make the short drive to Wasilla for a fun and educational outing. The Museum of Alaska delivers an up-close look at the vehicles and tools that supported remote living, resource development, and pioneering spirit that still defines the Big Lake area today.

More than a museum—it’s an evolving experience.

Discover Our Signature Collections

Our exhibits highlight the machines, people, and moments that shaped Alaska. Explore the evolution of transportation and industry, and how they intersect with culture, community, and environment.

Transportation Collection

Step into the driver’s seat of Alaska’s past with vintage automobiles, bush planes, and Alaska Railroad locomotives/cars.

Whale Skeleton Project

Follow our community-led journey to preserve and display a 40-foot fin whale skeleton, a one-of-a-kind natural history exhibit in the making.

Industrial Heritage Collection

Explore the powerful machines that fueled the Gold Rush, timber, and pipeline eras—tools that built the backbone of Alaska.

Education

Browse historic Alaska with our exhibits, events, and volunteers in action across the museum grounds.

We teach more than history—we build futures.

Big Lake’s past is closer than you think

Big Lake’s adventurous spirit continues at the Museum of Alaska, where restored machines and outdoor artifacts showcase the same determination that built Alaska’s roads, cabins, and airstrips. Located a short drive away, it’s a great fit for day trips, learning experiences, and local history buffs.

The museum is built by the community—for the community.

Community Outreach & Volunteer Opportunities

From the Mat-Su Valley to the far reaches of Alaska, we bring history into the community through pop-up exhibits, events, and school outreach. Our volunteers make it all possible.

Your membership fuels our mission to preserve, educate, and inspire.

Join or Donate Today

As a nonprofit 501(c)(3), the Museum of Alaska relies on generous supporters to keep history alive. Whether through membership, sponsorship, or a one-time donation, every dollar helps fund exhibits, events, and education.

Frequently Asked Questions