Zoos and aquariums are scarce because Alaska is one gigantic wildlife park in its own right. Those that do exist, however, are fascinating facilities dedicated to equal parts research, public education and rehabilitation for orphaned or injured animals. Behind-the-scenes tours let you get close to the animals and even participate in their care, feeding them or offering "enrichment" that encourages natural behaviors and play. Some wildlife facilities also partner with state and federal agencies to foster, then release, rare species back into the wild.