In addition to avoiding the crowds, you can get a sense of local life in Alaska, both past and present, through events and activities that have a long legacy in the state.
Aurora Viewing
Downhill Skiing
Nordic/Cross-Country Skiing
Attending Anchorage Winter Events
Riding the Aurora Train
Fat Tire Biking
Ice Fishing
Growing up in Alaska, my dad loved ice fishing in the winter; He would tie me up, grab our gear, head to nearby Mirror Lake, and drill a hole.