Kenai Peninsula.

• Author: Grenn, Ben
• Position: Tourist destinations in Alaska

The Kenai Peninsula, surrounded by the Gulf of Alaska, Prince William Sound, and Cook Inlet, is the playground of South Central Alaska, and just a day's drive from Anchorage.

The peninsula is one of the state's most popular recreational areas, and home to the communities of Homer, Seward, Soldotna and Kenai, as well as the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge, which spans two million acres. On the outskirts of the 150-mile peninsula is the city of Girdwood and Portage Glacier, both top tourist destinations. If it weren't for the narrow isthmus between Portage and Whittier, the Kenai Peninsula would be an island.

Nearly half of the visitors to the area are residents of Alaska. And every Anchorage resident, statistically speaking, either drives, flies or takes the train to the Peninsula an average of four times a year.

Here's a sampling of things to do on the Peninsula and surrounding areas this summer, as outlined by Stefanie Gorder, executive director of the Kenai Peninsula Tourism Marketing Council, Inc.

Drive-Through Game Park

Ever dreamed of going on an Africa safari? Can't afford it? No time? Have kids shrieking "Disneyland" whenever the topic arises?

Not to fear. Big Game Alaska's near.

Expect to see moose, musk ox, elk, bison, caribou, and deer in this unique park, located near the turn-off to Portage Glacier. It's the largest drive-thru game park in the world, according to Gorder.

Dog Sled Fever

Whether you've lived in Alaska all your life or you're a first-time adventurer, it's likely you've heard about the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race from Anchorage to Nome. It's also likely you've never ridden on a dog sled yourself. If a 1,049 mile trek across the frozen Interior is not your cup of tea, then IdidaRide Sled Dog Tours in Seward may be. The trip is complete with Iditarod veteran musher Mitch Seavey.

Alaska SeaLife Center

The newest tourist attraction on the Kenai Peninsula is the Alaska SeaLife Center in Seward. The $50 million world-class marine research and visitor facility, set to open in May, is a paradise where science and scenery combine to create a natural setting for viewing marine wildlife above and below the waves. Be among the first in the world to visit this center.

Fourth of July Mountain Race

On the Fourth of July in Seward, after viewing the parade, you may wish to sit back in awe and watch Mr. Marathon become dotted with climbers of all age groups during their annual race up and back down this treacherous peak. This year...