places to visit near anchorage alaska

Anchorage   Travel Guide

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17 Best Things to Do in Anchorage, Alaska

Anchorage's proximity to the great outdoors is the most obvious reason to stay and play in the city. Budget-conscious travelers will be pleased to find Anchorage hosts numerous fascinating and family-friendly attractions that don't cost a

• All Things To Do

Tony Knowles Coastal Trail Tony Knowles Coastal Trail free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Looking for a less urban ride or walk? Start your trail experience at Kincaid Park like most Anchorage residents. Keep an eye out for eagles, moose and bears along the way. – Erin Kirkland

Named for former Alaska Gov. Tony Knowles, who spearheaded the project, the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is an 11-mile out-and-back paved trail winding its way from downtown Anchorage south to Kincaid Park.

Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

U.S. News Insider Tip: Walk the property during your visit, and be sure to stop by the gazebo overlooking the end of Turnagain Arm to capture the full essence of the center. You may even see beluga whales during the tide changes. – Erin Kirkland

Located about 50 miles south of Anchorage at the end of scenic Turnagain Arm, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is a 200-acre facility housing animals and birds no longer able to survive in the wild. Open all year, visitors can be assured of seeing Alaska's most popular wild critters; black and brown bears, wolves, moose, musk ox, lynx, foxes and a herd of wood bison.

Alaska Native Heritage Center Alaska Native Heritage Center

U.S. News Insider Tip: Be sure to allow plenty of time for visiting each of the village sites surrounding the center's Lake Tiulana, and stop to talk with the Alaska Native youth at each. – Erin Kirkland

What makes Alaska truly unique are the traditional cultures that have thrived there for centuries. The Alaska Native Heritage Center is a unique indoor and outdoor facility offering hands-on information and experiences that showcase both the modern and historical ways of life among the state's First People.

Popular Tours

Anchorage Wilderness Wildlife Glacier Experience

(1977 reviews)

from $ 199.00

Full-Day Matanuska Glacier Hike And Tour

(90 reviews)

from $ 310.00

Seward to Anchorage- Post Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour + Transfer

(15 reviews)

from $ 197.00

Potter Marsh Potter Marsh free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Visit the boardwalk early in the morning or in the evening hours, when wildlife are most active. Remember to be bear and moose aware at all times. – Erin Kirkland

At the southern end of the Anchorage Coastal Wildlife Refuge is Potter Marsh, a wooden boardwalk that winds through a half-mile of rich, productive marshlands and offers stunning views of the Chugach Mountains. This is a popular destination for birders, as Arctic terns, northern pintails, trumpeter swans, canvasback ducks, red-necked phalaropes, horned and red-necked grebes, and bald eagles come to this wetland to feed and nest between mid-April to mid-October. Keep an eye out for eagles and their nests, usually located high in the cottonwood trees near the base of the eastern edge of the marsh.

Alaska Railroad Alaska Railroad

U.S. News Insider Tip: Visiting in the fall? The Hurricane Turn Train (daytrip) travels through the colorful forests of Alaska's Interior for amazing photographs. It's also a great way to meet Alaskans traveling to and from their remote homestead cabins. – Erin Kirkland

In a city raised with the birth of its railroad system, it should come as no surprise that Anchorage's historic train depot marks the gateway to further Alaska adventures. The Alaska Railroad Corporation hauls freight and passengers, and is considered one of the best Alaska tours by travelers and critics alike. Utilizing a north-south rail line stretching almost 600 miles between Seward and Fairbanks , the Alaska Railroad offers several itineraries that take passengers through some of the most scenic landscapes in the state. Whether passing through mountains, along coastline or through the meadows of Alaska, visitors will hear narration from local guides and helpful tips to spot wildlife.

Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center

U.S. News Insider Tip: Stop by the museum's "Lunch on the Lawn" events on Tuesday afternoons June through August for music and food trucks. – Erin Kirkland

Alaska's largest museum provides a thorough introduction to the people, industries and vivid history of this fascinating land. Spanning four floors of temporary and permanent exhibitions, hands-on learning and beautiful art, the museum is fully-accessible and open every day during the summer months.

Chugach State Park Chugach State Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip : Eklutna Lake makes an excellent full-day adventure in Chugach State Park. You can also rent mountain bikes and kayaks from a third-party vendor right on the lakeshore. –  Erin Kirkland

Chugach State Park is the third-largest state park in the nation (the first, Wood-Tikchik, is also located in Alaska), clocking in at nearly half a million acres of hiking trails, skiing terrain, rock-climbing spots and wildlife habitat. Chugach is the perfect place to experience untouched Alaska without a long drive – the park's breathtaking scenery is within a 20-minute drive of downtown Anchorage.

Matanuska Glacier Matanuska Glacier free

The mighty Matanuska Glacier is located about 95 miles northeast of Anchorage along the scenic Glenn Highway, and is the largest glacier in Alaska accessible by car. It's also one of the oldest glaciers, spanning 4 miles across and 13,000 feet high, and is easily seen from the highway, making it a popular stop.

Visitors may stop and view the glacier from the Matanuska Glacier State Recreation Site, where picnic tables and a short trail are offered for day use. Parking is free for up to 30 minutes at the recreation site; after that there is a $5 charge. To actually walk upon the glacier, however, one must go to Glacier Park, a private-use site that charges admission to access the ice. It's worth it though, to be able to trek upon the frozen surface and see the ice caves and deep blue pools. Only certified vendors are allowed to guide hikes upon the glacier due to safety reasons, and several will transport visitors from Anchorage, year-round. Salmon Berry Travel & Tours is a well-reviewed company that offers guided glacier hikes. Guided hike or climbing fees vary depending upon the experience, but range from $40 per person to $300 per person. Previous visitors to the glacier have enjoyed the guided treks upon the glacier and the "Glaciology 101" information provided by the knowledgeable guides.

Grand Knik Helicopter Tour - 2 hours 3 landings - ANCHORAGE AREA

(210 reviews)

from $ 719.97

26 Glacier Cruise and Coach from Anchorage, AK

(190 reviews)

from $ 317.12

Wildlife and Glaciers with a walk in the Rainforest

(511 reviews)

from $ 129.00

Portage Glacier Portage Glacier

Many years ago, Portage Glacier stretched all the way to where the Seward Highway sits today. Today, the glacier's remnant is beautiful Portage Valley, a 14-mile isthmus connecting the Kenai Peninsula to mainland Southcentral Alaska.

The Chugach National Forest manages the land of Portage Valley and Glacier, and visitors traveling between Seward, Whittier and Anchorage can be treated to outdoor recreation and information about this unique and wild landscape just 55 miles southeast of Anchorage.

Spencer Glacier Spencer Glacier

If retreating into Alaska's backcountry appeals to you, but you don't have a lot of time, gear or experience to make it happen, the Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop trip aboard the Alaska Railroad may be for you.

Departing from the Anchorage, Girdwood or Portage depots, travelers who board the Glacier Discovery train will be transported into the Chugach National Forest and beautiful, icy Spencer Lake, its namesake glacier looming in the background.

Alaska Botanical Garden Alaska Botanical Garden

U.S. News Insider Tip: Guided tours of the garden are a great way to become familiar with Alaska’s native plants, and it’s worth the cost to have a personal guide for your visit. – Erin Kirkland

Nestled in 110 acres of boreal forest, the Alaska Botanical Garden features 150 native plant species and more than 1,100 perennials. There is an herb garden, a wildflower trail, two perennial gardens and the Anchorage Heritage Garden, which was completed in the summer of 2015 and is filled with native plants that were grown from local seeds.

Alaska Aviation Museum Alaska Aviation Museum

Of all industries, aviation has played the largest role in Alaska's development; before there were roads, there were airstrips upon beaches, gravel and even meadows. At the Alaska Aviation Museum, visitors can garner an up-close look at the importance of aircraft in both civilian and military uses, in all areas of the state. Travelers will also learn about bush flying, famous Alaska pilots and Alaska's role in World War II.

Four hangars and an outdoor yard make up the bulk of the museum space, and a restoration hangar is well worth a stop to observe volunteers who spend their time restoring the aircraft back into the shape they once were. Don't miss the tower cab along the shores of Lake Hood as well, where you can go upstairs to hear live air traffic controller traffic as planes navigate the Lake Hood Seaplane Base all day long.

Kincaid Park Kincaid Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Stop by the Kincaid Chalet, where helpful Anchorage Parks and Recreation staff can provide tips on accessing favorite trails suitable for your area of interest, time frame and abilities. – Erin Kirkland

Kincaid Park is an ideal destination for those looking to escape to the wilderness without leaving Anchorage. Overlooking Cook Inlet from the city's southwest corner, this 1,400-acre park is home to dozens of hiking, biking and cross-country ski trails, gardens and wildlife like moose, black and brown bears, foxes and porcupines. Trails are kept in shape thanks to year-round use, and a disc golf course can be played through the western side of the park.

Anchorage City Tour w/ Taste of Wild Smoked Salmon & Reindeer Sausage

(486 reviews)

from $ 69.00

Dog Sledding Adventure in Willow, Alaska

(271 reviews)

from $ 243.00

26 Glacier Tour, Self-Drive from Anchorage, AK

(84 reviews)

from $ 225.84

Lake Hood Lake Hood free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Do what locals do and finish up your walk or bike ride at the Lakefront Anchorage's outdoor deck for a meal and drinks. – Erin Kirkland

As Anchorage grew in the 1940s, air travel in and out of Anchorage was starting to ramp up, with both commercial and private aircraft taking up airspace in the skies around the city. Recognizing the need for separate landing areas, the state of Alaska joined two local lakes near the Anchorage airport, Spenard and Hood, by a single channel, thus enabling small aircraft to utilize water access for summertime float use. By the 1950s, work crews had built a seaplane complex, new gravel airstrip and installed an air control tower, and the buzz of aircraft coming and going became one of Anchorage's most notable features.

The Alaska Zoo The Alaska Zoo

If the thought of running into some of Alaska's wild creatures in their natural habitat makes you nervous, visit them (safely) at The Alaska Zoo. The facility, located in Anchorage's Hillside neighborhood, features animals and birds of the circumpolar north, and participates in the rescue of injured or abandoned creatures around the state that need a place to heal. The zoo itself is small, but the woodsy trails are perfectly aligned with the natural theme of the property, and the animals – including moose, bears, seals, mountain goats, Amur tigers and Bactrian camels, among others – are easily viewed by any age or ability. 

Previous visitors described the zoo as small, but said a stop here is a great way to see animals you have missed in the wild. Reviewers reported spending about an hour here.

Anchorage Market Anchorage Market free

A local favorite since it first opened in 1992, the Anchorage Market and Festival started out as a Saturday-only market with just two dozen vendors, but it quickly grew to host up to 100 vendors and now operates Saturdays and Sundays mid-May to mid-September. Formerly located downtown, the market shifted its base of operations to south Anchorage after the COVID-19 pandemic. Popular with residents and visitors alike, it is the place to shop for clothes, food, crafts and more while enjoying live entertainment and snacking on locally-grown eats. There's also a kids market suitable for ages 8 to 17 that sells goods crafted by other youngsters.

Recent travelers reported finding unique items to buy and praised the delicious food, but others said it's not worth going out of your way to visit. 

Alaska Center for the Performing Arts Alaska Center for the Performing Arts

A staple in the Anchorage arts scene since 1998, the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts (or the PAC, as it is locally known) is the place to go in Anchorage when you want to catch a play, show, musical or concert. Conveniently located adjacent to Town Square Park and featuring three theaters of varying sizes, the center hosts performances that range from local favorite storytelling event "Arctic Entries" to Broadway shows like "Hamilton" and "Six The Musical."

Past visitors praised the variety of performances here and the acoustics of the venues.

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The 27 Best Things to Do in Anchorage (According to a Local!)

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Many people have mixed feelings about their hometowns. Even I did – my parents recently reminded me that I once declared that once I left Alaska , I was “never going back!” (Boy, did I turn out to be wrong! Now I can’t wait to go back.)

You see, I grew up in Eagle River, a small community just outside Anchorage , Alaska. At the time, as many young people do, I had very little perspective on what made the place I called home so special. So when I was young and full of that artificial sense of independence, I declared my intent to leave without realizing once I did, I would also come to appreciate the place I had left.

Anchorage is an awesome destination, and one I always recommend spending time in during your Alaska itinerary . Ignore the locals who call it “Los Anchorage” – the only similarity it has to cities in the Lower 48 is that it’s big. The largest city in Alaska is truly unique, and there are incredible things to do in Anchorage to justify spending at least a day here during your Alaska trip.

As you plan that trip, you might wonder what those “things to do” are – and this post will help. This list is by no means exhaustive; there are dozens of other cool experiences in the Anchorage area and every local has their own list to recommend. But as you’re here with me, this is my list of the best things to do in Anchorage. In particular, it is tailored to those visiting during the summer months of late May through mid-September. If you’re visiting in the autumn , winter , or spring , I have a separate list of Anchorage activities for the snowy time of year .

Ready to discover all Anchorage has to offer? Read on and take notes – you won’t be able to squeeze all of this into your Alaska itinerary, but you can definitely make time for several!

In this post, I promote travel to a destination that is the traditional lands of the Dena’ina Ełnena people. With respect, I make a formal land acknowledgment, extending my appreciation and respect to the past and present people of these lands. To learn more about the peoples who call these lands home, I invite you to explore  Native Land .

This post was originally published in March 2022, and was updated most recently in April 2024.

Table of Contents

1. Explore Historic 4th Avenue

One of the best ways to get oriented once you arrive in Anchorage is to walk around a bit – and there’s one important street I recommend strolling to help with that: 4th Avenue. (For starters, Anchorage is a super easy-to-navigate grid system where east-west roads are numbered avenues and north-south roads are lettered streets. So 4th avenue is an east-west street running through downtown Anchorage, which most Alaskans just call “Downtown.”)

The history of 4th Avenue dates back to the earliest years of Anchorage – which was only about 100 years ago! Back then, it was the main street in town, so many important buildings were/are located here. One main one is the now-demolished 4th Avenue Theater, which dates back to the post-war era. Here you can also find a log cabin that serves as the Anchorage Visitor Information Center, and a number of gift shops – both kitschy and more authentic.

If you’re visiting Anchorage in the winter months , 4th Avenue is also where most Fur Rendezvous activities take place – and where the ceremonial start of the Iditarod occurs.

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2. Visit the Anchorage Museum

For a long time, I didn’t consider myself a museum person; then I realized I just hadn’t visited enough cool museums! The Anchorage Museum is one of my most recommended things to do in Anchorage because it really is worth your time – you can easily spend a half-day here moving through the galleries of traditional and modern art, learning about Alaskan art and history, and even trying your hand at some scientific exhibits in the Discovery Center (which was called the Imaginarium when I was a kid).

By far the best parts of the Anchorage Museum are the exhibits on Alaska history and Native Alaskan culture. In partnership with the Smithsonian Institution, there’s an awesome Arctic Studies Center Exhibition that takes you through each of the major Native Alaskan groups with videos, artifacts, and much, much more. This is necessary education if you know nothing about Alaska Native culture and want to learn more during your visit (which I advocate and you should definitely do!).

3. Ride the Anchorage Trolley Tour

For a quick orientation and history lesson about Anchorage’s unique history, the Anchorage Trolley tour is a must-do. This short one-hour tour costs $20 per person but packs a ton in: you’ll drive through downtown Anchorage, see the Alaska Railroad Depot, visit Earthquake Park, roll around Lake Hood, and even pass Star the Reindeer (#4 on this list) – making it a two-for-one activity.

Yes, it’s quite touristy and not for those who are averse to such experiences – but I’ve now done it twice (summer 2021 and summer 2023) and I think it is a great introduction to the city for first-time visitors. I recommend doing this toward the start of your time in Anchorage if it sounds of interest.

4. Visit the Anchorage Market

After several years in a less-than-optimal location in South Anchorage, the Anchorage Market has returned to its downtown location – and has jumped back up on my list of top things to do in Anchorage!

I’ve long loved the Anchorage Market and even used to visit as a kid growing up in Alaska; it’s home to a variety of vendors offering everything from unique and authentic Alaska-made souvenirs to fascinating foods you can try for a snack or lunch.

Now back at its downtown location, the Market is much easier for visitors to enjoy, and the only complaint I have is that it only happens on Saturdays and Sundays during the summer (May 11th to September 8th) so I won’t be able to visit this year! (I’ll be in Anchorage on September 5th, which is a Thursday… dang it!)

5. Visit Star the Reindeer, Anchorage’s Mascot

As mentioned, there’s a reindeer named Star in town, and it’s Anchorage’s unofficial mascot! Actually, this is not the first Star (even though reindeer live up to 20 years in captivity), it’s actually Star the 7th, and it’s the first male reindeer in the Star legacy.

Sometimes Star makes appearances at local events, but if you want to see him for sure, you’ll need to make the walk down to his large pen (at the corner of I Street & 10th Avenue and say hi there. Unfortunately, there’s no way to pet or feed her (just to manage expectations now); I was invited by his owner to come inside the pen, but this isn’t a normal experience.

6. Take a Food or Drink Tour

I’ll be honest: there’s a huge market opportunity here as – as far as I can tell – there is no official food tour in Anchorage – and only one brewery tour.

As far as I can tell, Anchorage Sites & Bites is the only company offering food tours in Anchorage right now – but their tours look great! I’m particularly interested in trying the Spenard Food & True Crime Walking Tour on my next trip.

For brewery tours, Big Swig Tours is your go-to for trying the many awesome craft breweries around Anchorage; their tour makes four stops and keeps the good stuff flowing throughout.

You could also make your own food or drink tour! I’ve provided some recommendations on where to eat and drink in Anchorage at the end of this post; if you try them all, you could count it as a DIY food tour in Anchorage.

7. Ride the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail

Though I haven’t really covered it yet, it’s undoubtedly the case that many people come to Alaska to experience adventures and go outdoors. Within a city like Anchorage – which has amazing access to those natural spaces – there are also some “light” adventure opportunities.

One such way is by renting a bike to ride the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. I recommend grabbing a bike from Pablo’s Bicycles (which Mr. V and I rented from) and setting off along the 11-mile out-and-back trail that runs along the edge of Cook Inlet (the main body of water near Anchorage). Keep in mind it’s 11 miles one way – so a 20+ mile ride, if you do the whole thing all the way to Kincaid Park at the far end (and then back).

8. Go Fishing at Ship Creek

Many people come to Alaska to fish, and while I don’t have a ton of resources about that on this site, I did want to mention one easy spot for fishing during your Alaska trip. In fact, it’s so easy, it’s right in town while visiting Anchorage!

Ship Creek is a tidal drainage that runs into Cook Inlet just north of the Alaska Railroad Depot on the edge of downtown Anchorage; each year it sees several salmon runs and can be a fun spot to try your luck. If you’re not traveling with your own fishing gear, check out The Bait Shack , which offers gear rental – including waders to keep you dry and clean from the silty mud of the riverbanks – and a fishing license to make it all legal if you catch anything.

9. Hike Flattop (or in Chugach State Park)

Another popular reason people visit Alaska and Anchorage is to go hiking, and there’s a semi-urban hike on the edge of South Anchorage that I always recommend. It’s called Flattop and gives awesome views of the Anchorage area all the way to the Alaska Range and Denali on a clear day. Flattop trail sits on the edge of Chugach State Park, which is a huge area with lots of trails to explore; several different trails set out from the same trailhead parking area as Flattop.

As for the trail itself, it’s a 3.3-mile out-and-back with loop options and serious elevation gain (1,430 ft). If you’re not up for that much and want to skip all the switchbacks on the second half of the trail, you can do a shorter version up to the first saddle and back. (I forgot to start my Apple Watch on this hike but Alltrails says that should be about 0.7 miles each way.)

There are some other great hikes in the Anchorage area and the rest of Alaska too if you like hiking and want to do that during your trip!

10. Spot Wildlife at Potter Marsh

Wildlife is another huge draw for Alaska, but I always think it’s funny when people ask where you can see the moose, bears, etc. I mean, I don’t know – it’s wild life! They go where they want, ya know?!

One of the popular places you can usually spot some wildlife is Potter Marsh on the south end of Anchorage (though admittedly this is less common than when I was growing up in Anchorage since there’s been a lot of development in this area). This marshland is a favorite for moose, and you’ll also spot other animals like eagles, geese, and other birds.

Best of all, the trail out into Potter Marsh is an elevated boardwalk with railings; it’s an easy walk for those with mobility problems or with kids who need to get out and stretch their legs.

11. Learn at the Alaska Native Heritage Center

As I mentioned earlier, I believe one of the most important things to do in Anchorage is to learn about Alaska Native culture. Anchorage is built on Dena’ina Ełnena land (as mentioned at the top of this post), and should be respected as such. One of the best ways to show that respect is by first acknowledging the land is Indigenous land, and then by educating yourself about the people whose land it is.

The best way to do this is by visiting the Alaska Native Heritage Center . You’ll need a car to visit; unfortunately, they don’t seem to offer a shuttle from downtown anymore. (This is likely a result of the pandemic!)

At the ANHC, you can explore indoor exhibits to learn about the different major Alaska Native groups, and then take a stroll around Lake Tiulana which has a nicely maintained trail connecting different “villages” that give you a sense of what life was/is like for Native Alaskans.

Seriously, this is a must-visit if you have the time – it’s an immersive way to learn about, financially support, and honor Alaska Native culture during your visit.

12. Soar to the Alaska Aviation Museum

Alaska has a unique history in aviation – many pioneers in the field have called Alaska home and accomplished incredible feats in the skies above The Last Frontier. For those who find aviation history fascinating, a visit to Lake Hood (the world’s largest and busiest floatplane base) and the Alaska Aviation Museum .

The museum is comprised of four hangers containing historic planes and artifacts – while that might not sound like much, we all know that for the AvGeeks out there, that can take quite a while to explore! You’ll need a rental car to reach the museum as it’s all the way out near the airport, and then give yourself a few hours to enjoy if you decide to plan a visit here.

13. Take a Historic Anchorage Ghost Tour

For those who prefer to learn with a bit of entertainment involved, there’s no better way to learn about Anchorage (and Alaska) history than with Ghost Tours of Anchorage .

In any case, this 90-minute tour occurs every night of the week except Mondays at 7:30pm. It’s just $15 for the tour, which is a great price for Alaska! During the tour, you’ll learn about the “history and mystery” of Anchorage and may – if you are particularly suggestible – come away with a sense of the paranormal parts of the city too.

I took this tour in summer 2022 and it was fantastic!

14. Explore the Greater Anchorage Area

While most people think of Anchorage as the main city they see when flying into Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, Anchorage is actually huge. Its borders stretch some 50 miles down the Seward Highway and another 30 odd miles up the Glenn Highway; it also encompasses almost all of Chugach State Park and part of Chugach National Forest (and its associated ice field).

All this to say – just like Alaska, Anchorage is big. And that means there’s lots to do beyond the city. Here are some of my favorite things to do in Anchorage beyond urban exploration and outdoor adventures within sight of downtown Anchorage.

15. Explore Funky Girdwood

45 minutes south of Anchorage along the Seward Highway, Girdwood is a destination unto itself. This ski-bum town is primarily oriented around the Alyeska Resort and skiing on Alyeska Mountain during the winter months; during the summer there’s plenty to do too.

One big attraction is the Girdwood Forest Fair , which takes place every July. With the tagline “No Dogs ~ No Politics ~ No Religious Orders,” you get the sense that they’ve got strong opinions about things in Girdwood – but people love the event, both locals and visitors alike.

There are also some great hiking trails in the area (Crow Creek Pass, Iditarod Trail, Virgin Falls) and fantastic food and drink (Jack Sprat is a must-must-must eat, The Double Musky is where my parents used to celebrate anniversaries, and Girdwood Brewing Company has a very cool vibe).

Girdwood is easily worth a day trip from Anchorage – or an overnight if you have the time in your Alaska itinerary .

16. Visit the Eagle River Nature Center

I grew up in the small community of Eagle River, about 10 miles north of downtown Anchorage along the Glenn Highway. As such, I have a soft spot for the area and love recommending the main tourist attraction in town – the Eagle River Nature Center .

Admittedly, the ERNC is not “in” town; it’s a 13-mile drive to the end of Eagle River Road, back in the valley that Eagle River sits at the mouth of. Geography aside, it’s a beautiful spot that feels more than the miles away from civilization that it is. There are some great, easy hiking trails and incredible scenery even from the Nature Center itself.

16. Hike, Bike, or Kayak at Eklutna

For a more heart-pumping activity, Eklutna Glacier is a great day trip from downtown Anchorage too. The lake at the front of this glacier is about an hour’s drive from Anchorage, up into another mountainous valley of the Chugach mountains.

Once there, you can either set out on foot, rent a bike, or rent a kayak to explore the area of Eklutna Lake and – time permitting – make your way toward the face of Eklutna Glacier. The glacier itself is not visible from the parking area – nor from any part of the trial or lake due to how much the glacier has receded.

It is however still a beautiful way to get outdoors and spend time near a (relatively) easy-to-access glacial alpine lake.

18. Raft or Kayak at Spencer Glacier

Full transparency: here’s one of those things to do in Anchorage that I’ve actually never done. I’ve heard great things about it and my friend Nicole (a fellow Alaskan who graduated from high school with me!) has a great guide to taking the Whistle Stop train to Spencer Glacier .

In short, you’ll need to pre-arrange a number of details: the Alaska Railroad to and from Spencer Glacier, and the gear rental once you arrive. You can also spend the day hiking near the Glacier instead if you’re not certain about getting on the lake so close to a glacier.

As I said though, I’ve never done this – it’s still on my personal bucket list – but Nicole’s guide covers all the details if this sounds intriguing.

19. See Wildlife at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

Seeing wildlife is important to many Alaska travelers; Denali’s Big Five are awesome to behold but not commonly seen in a single trip. (I’ve only ever had two trips to Denali National Park where I saw all five in a single day.)

If you’d like to improve your odds, rent a car and drive down to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center , located south of Anchorage along Turnagain Arm. This facility takes in animals that might otherwise not survive in the wild and gives them care and a safe environment to live. You can see moose, caribou, bears, wolves, and many more animals from a safe distance.

(The final Big 5 animal, Dall Sheep, are often spotted on the rocky cliffs along the Seward Highway so keep your eyes peeled for them while driving to and from AWCC.)

20. Take a Day Cruise in Seward, Whittier, or Portage

Here I’m coloring outside the lines, as both Seward and Whittier are definitely not within the Anchorage area – but Portage is! And in any case, if you want to take a cruise to see whales or glaciers , there’s nowhere quite like these places.

Whittier gives you access to Prince William Sound and is great for glacier tours; the 26 Glacier Cruise is a must-do for anyone who’s got glaciers on their Alaska bucket list . From Seward, you can take a whale-watching (and glacier) tour with Major Marine Tours or Kenai Fjords Tours in Kenai Fjords National Park (there are other cruise operators too).

And then there’s Portage, which is the least developed and offers one short glacier cruise to see Portage Glacier – which is just out of sight from the parking area.

Any or all of these are a fantastic way to spend part of a day exploring the Greater Anchorage area.

21. Hop on the Alaska Railroad

The Alaska Railroad is unique among railroads in the U.S., which is part of what inspires so many people to travel on it each year. It is a state-owned-and-operated system with only one track and route connecting Seward in the south to Fairbanks in the north (some 400 miles apart).

And to be fair, riding the Alaska Railroad anywhere will take you outside of Anchorage – unless you only ride as far as Girdwood, which is technically still within Anchorage.

In any case, if you have the time and budget, taking a ride on the Alaska Railroad is a great thing to do from Anchorage; popular day destinations include Girdwood, Spencer Glacier, and Whittier, or you can plan an overnight trip to Seward, Wasilla, Talkeetna, or Denali.

22. Take a Bear-Watching Flightseeing Tour

Okay this is another stretch as it definitely takes you outside of Anchorage, but I’d be remiss if I skipped over the fact that you can fly from Anchorage to places like Katmai National Park and Lake Clark National Park to see bears.

My favorite operator is Rust’s Flying Service (they also operate K2 Aviation out of Talkeetna ), and they offer bear-viewing flightseeing tours throughout the summer months. I’m really hoping to do one of these tours myself someday soon but haven’t been able to make it work in my itineraries lately!

23. Explore the Mat-Su Valley

While it’s not technically within the “Municipality of Anchorage,” the Mat-Su is a fabulous area to explore that’s relatively close to Anchorage – and that’s saying something since you know how big Alaska is!

(Alaska doesn’t have “counties,” instead there are “municipalities” (like Anchorage) and “boroughs” (like the “Matanuska-Susitna” aka Mat-Su area.)

Within the Mat-Su, there are some must-do activities if you decide to rent a car and make your way out there. Here are some of my favorites.

24. Hike on Matanuska Glacier

Seeing glaciers is one of the top reasons people visit Alaska – and getting the chance to hike on a glacier is even more exciting. Many of my favorite glaciers to see, like Exit Glacier in Seward, Portage Glacier near Whittier, or Eklutna Glacier, don’t afford this opportunity – but Matanuska Glacier north of Palmer does.

Palmer is about an hour’s drive from Anchorage; the drive to the face of Matanuska Glacier is another hour beyond that along the Glenn Highway (Route 1) toward Glennallen. You’ll start to see the Glacier as you approach it – but to visit you’ll actually need to go on a guided tour. This is a change from when I grew up, when people were able to walk right out onto the glacier – but it’s due to the fact that the land between the highway and glacier is private property. The owners have tightened access to their land and now require everyone to be on a tour to visit.

Some of the main tour companies that offer Matanuska Glacier tours are Glacier Tours , MICA Guides , and Nova Alaska . I’m planning to go hiking with either MICA or Nova on my upcoming trip in summer 2022.

25. Go Hiking at Hatcher Pass

Another popular activity in the Mat-Su area is to visit (or drive) Hatcher Pass. This mountain pass connects Palmer and Willow – though it’s definitely faster to use the highway system if you’re actually just trying to travel between them.

If instead, you’re looking for an incredibly scenic drive with plenty of hiking opportunities and a sprinkle of history thrown in, Hatcher Pass is the place to go. You can drive up the Fishhook-Willow Road from Palmer to Independence Mine State Historical Park. There you can learn all about mining history in Alaska and see some incredible ruins of old mining buildings both on the valley floor and high on the mountain slopes and peaks above.

There are some cool hikes in this mountainous area; popular ones include the easy Independence Mine Trail (2 miles, relatively flat), April Bowl (2 miles as either an out-and-back or loop over Hatch Peak), or Marmot Mountain (2.6 miles with almost 2,000 feet in elevation).

26. Visit the Muskox Farm in Palmer

For a less intense outdoor activity, or one that’s family-friendly, look into visiting The Musk Ox Farm in Palmer. Musk Ox are a fascinating, prehistoric-looking animal that is capable of surviving in the harsh Alaskan winter – specifically in the Arctic .

Unfortunately, musk oxen were not well managed as a species and were wiped out of Alaska completely around the turn of the 20th century. They have been reintroduced into the wild in certain parts of the state, and farms like this one help keep the species alive in Alaska. Be warned though – these guys can be smelly during the summer months!

Musk oxen also produce an incredible under-layer of their wool coats called qiviut , which makes for a great souvenir (though not a cheap one!).

27. Take an ATV Tour at Knik Glacier

Finally, if you want more adventure than I’ve mentioned thus far, look into taking an ATV tour out at Knik Glacier (pronounced kuh-nick). A number of operators offer Anchorage pick-up and drop-off for this tour; the most popular by far is 49th State Motor Tours .

On this tour, you’ll spend 6-7 hours traversing a variety of Alaskan environments: wooded forest, sand dunes, dried riverbeds, meadows, and a glacial lake as you enjoy views of Knik Glacier and the surrounding Chugach mountains. It’s a scenic and exhilarating way to spend a day.

Where to Dine & Drink in Anchorage

Oh gosh, where to begin when it comes to recommending food and drink spots in Anchorage? There are tons of great options – many I’ve been to and some I still haven’t had the chance to try. Here’s a short list of my personal favorites, though any Alaskan you ask will have their own set of recommendations.

• 49th State Brewing
• Humpy’s Great Alaskan Ale House
• Tia’s Reindeer Sausage
• Snow City Cafe
• Moose’s Tooth

If you want to know why I recommend these spots or need more ideas, here’s my complete list of places to eat in Anchorage .

Where to Stay in Anchorage

As you can tell, there are so many things to do in Anchorage that you need at least one night here to sample even a subset of my list. That means you’ll also need a hotel. I’ve got a separate post all about where to stay in Anchorage – updated for 2024, too! Be sure to check that out if you haven’t figured out your Anchorage-area accommodations yet.

Have any other questions about what to do in Anchorage, Alaska? Let me know in the comments!

Continue Planning Your Anchorage Trip!

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I was born on the East Coast and currently live in the Midwest – but my heart will always be out West. I lived for 15 years in Alaska, as well as four years each in California and Washington. I share travel resources and stories based on my personal experience and knowledge.

Vicki Smith

What to do in anchorage Denali national park Fairbanks Dawson creek Please let me know options and how to reserve and or set up prior to coming up. July 2023

Thanks for reading, Vicki. I have shared lots of resources here to help you plan your trip: https://www.valisemag.com/guides/alaska/

Thank you for the information, I am planning a trip next year.

Glad to help – have a great trip!

Christine Lincoln

Hi Valerie, My husband and I will be spending a couple of days in Anchorage after a cruise (May 8-10) and was interested in panning for gold and a tour of a gold mine. Can you recommend any place that does this for tourists (would need supplies to pan for gold from the place). We don’t mind traveling about an hour to get there. Thank you!

Hi, Christine! I don’t know of any gold mines near Anchorage that you can actually go into, but you have two options for more gold mining oriented activities: Independence Mine State Park in Hatcher Pass may be open by then (tbd as you’re going early in May and there could still be snow blocking the road) or Crow Creek Mine in Girdwood – this is probably your better bet since it will definitely be snow-free and they have gold panning. I hope that helps!

Thank you for your well written articles!!! I was wondering about camping recommendations! I plan to drive to Alaska and car camp with a teardrop trailer and occasionally splurge on a hotel. Can you direct me to some campground resources?

Hi, BJ. Sorry, but I have never traveled that way, so I’m no expert to advise you there. I recommend grabbing a copy of the Milepost, which is the bible of Alaska car travel!

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25 Epic Things To Do Near Anchorage, Alaska

By: Author Gabi

Posted on Last updated: March 10, 2024

In this blog, we are covering the best things to do in Anchorage Alaska especially if you love outdoor adventure.

Anchorage may be the largest city in Alaska, but with the steep and jagged Chugach mountains surrounding the city, Anchorage is a haven for outdoorsmen/women. There are so many epic things to do in Anchorage and the surrounding mountains. While I don’t dream of living in a big city, of all cities in the United States, Anchorage is one of the best basecamps for an adventurer.

Table of Contents

Tips For Visiting Anchorage, Alaska

Here’s the deal, you don’t go to Alaska for Anchorage itself. Anchorage is just a basecamp, a freaking good one at that. The reason you should be visiting Alaska is for the great outdoors.

There are few places with nature as raw as Alaska’s.

The mountains of Anchorage have hundreds of different trails to choose from and most are a short drive from the city center which means you can spend half your day bagging peaks and the other half chilling with some of the best artisan foods Alaska has to offer.

The opportunities are truly endless.

Within a 30-minute drive of Anchorage, you can explore coastal forest trails and the condensed mountain valleys of Hatcher Pass and hike to old mines.

There’s Turnagain Arm, the ski town of Girdwood, Wasilla, and the gorgeous glaciers of Portage Pass.

The area around Anchorage has adventures of all sorts, not just hiking including fishing, SUPing, kayaking, climbing, and mountain biking.

Anchorage is an up-and-coming mountain bike town and it shows with its smooth singletrack and long-distance rides nearby.

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Tips for Hiking near Anchorage

• Carry Bear Spray – You don’t hike in Alaska without bear spray, that’s just an absolute. If you’re flying into Anchorage, you can pick up bear spray at REI, Costco, or Cabella’s. If you’re driving, you buy some online ahead of time.
• Get an Alaska State Parks Pass – A lot of these activities start within Alaska State Parks. Each time you park at one of these it’s $5 for the day. I highly recommend picking up an Alaska State Parks Pass which is $50 for the year. You can order one online here or you can purchase one at the REI in Anchorage, at the Mat-Su/Copper Basin Area Office in Wasilla, or at the Chugach State Park Office.

Adventurous Things to do in Anchorage

1 | camp at eklutna lake.

On the northeast side of Anchorage, 9 miles into Chugach State Park is a campground of peace, solitude, and a perfectly blue lake.

This one made our top 10 best campgrounds list for a good reason. Not only are the actual campsites beautiful, they are spacious and only a few minutes walk from a gorgeous alpine lake. Even if you don’t camp, it would be worth spending a few hours here at the lake to soak in the turquoise water and surrounding mountains.

2 | Hike the Twin Peaks Trail

Trailhead: Eklutna Lake Difficulty: Easy to Moderate Distance: 5 miles roundtrip, 1800 feet elevation gain

From Eklutna Lake there’s more than just camping. At Eklutna Lake you’ll find the trailhead for the Twin Peaks which delivers incredible views of the lake from above. This 5-mile roundtrip takes you up to an overlook where you can see the amazing colors of Eklutna Lake plus the mountains surrounding.

The trail is steep but moderately easy compared to many Anchorage hikes. The trail switchbacks through pretty birch forests before finally cresting the treelike after 1 little more than an hour.

While the views are incredible from here, you also have the option to extend this hike to East Twin Peak , Pepper Peak , or tackle the Eklutna High Ridge Traverse , all of which involve exciting scrambles and are definitely some of the best hikes in Alaska.

3 | Explore Portage Pass

Trailhead: Portage Pass Trailhead, Whittier Difficulty: Easy to Moderate Distance: 2-4 miles roundtrip, 800 feet elevation gain

This is the most bang for your buck hike near Anchorage but it does cost a few bucks. To get to the trailhead you’ll need to drive through the one-way road through Portage Tunnel which costs:

• $13 for Passenger vehicles and RVs under 28 feet (no trailers)
• $22 for RVs over 28 feet or passenger vehicles with trailers
• $38 for large trailers (AKA 5th wheels) or RVs that are towing trailers

Note: Prices include roundtrip travel and are not discounted for one way travel.

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The tunnel alternates direction every half hour.   Currently, the summer schedule allows traffic from Bear Valley (Anchorage side) to Whittier at the:30 and traffic from Whittier to Bear Valley at on:00. Keep in mind that the tunnel only allows traffic for 15 minutes at a time since the tunnel takes so long to drive through which means you could have to wait for up to 45 minutes. Click here to see the current tunnel schedule .

Once through the tunnel, you’ll immediately turn right to the Portage Pass Trailhead. You’ll make another right at the next dirt road however this dirt road is a little rough for RVs getting to the trailhead as of 2019 so we just parked on the first dirt road and hiked an extra 0.1 miles.

If you are towing a trailer, park across the highway at the Portage Campground since there is limited room to turn around at the trailhead.

From here, now the fun begins! The Portage Pass hike is the best bang for your buck hike in probably all of Alaska and though it’s in Whittier, it’s only a 1 hour drive from Anchorage.

This hike is a short, steep one-mile trail to get to the summit of Portage Pass and the overlook where you’ll get perfect views of the Portage Lake and Portage Glacier.

If you want to extend the hike and are in search of a little more solitude, hike a mile further down to the shores of Portage Lake where you can see the beautiful moraine-colored water up close. The area by the lake makes a great picnic spot.

4 | Summit Mount Baldy

Trailhead: Mt Baldy Trailhead, Eagle River Difficulty: Moderate Distance: 3-4 miles roundtrip, 500 feet elevation gain

Due to Anchorage’s mountainous features, most of the hikes near the city are EXTREMELY steep and strenuous. Mount Baldy is what I’d consider a perfect warmup to the area’s hikes. While still a steep ascent, it’s super family-friendly and the hike can be done in 2-3 hours.

That’s not to say this trail isn’t equally as beautiful as other hikes though. At the summit of Mount Baldy, you get 360-degree views of the coast, downtown Anchorage, and to the east, the Chugach mountains towering off into the distance. The coolest part is that you get these incredible views the whole way which helps motivate you to keep on climbing the steep trail.

From the summit, you can also choose to make it longer and continue on to Roundtop and Blacktail Rocks which lies directly east along the ridge seen from Baldy’s summit. This only adds about an hour to you hike.

This hike gains 500 feet over a 1 or 2-mile span. There are 2 trails that ascend the mountain which means you can make it a loop or just do an out-and-back.

The right trail is slightly steep and shorter and the left trail is longer and more gradual and goes up the valley, which is good if you have a fear of heights.

We chose to go up the right side and being spring when we hiked this trail, we wished we had just descended the same way since the valley was so muddy.

Getting there

The trailhead is at the top of a hill in a residential area of Eagle River. From Eagle River, head east on Eagle River Loop road then turn left at Skyline Drive and head to the top.

The road is quite steep and the parking lot is big enough for 30 or so cars and includes a turnaround spot. Our 30-foot RV made it up there great and being a weekday in spring there was plenty of parking but I wouldn’t recommend any larger vehicles.

From the parking lot, you can take the left road or the right road. The right road heads up a switchback. Even when you see a trail sign to the left, continue on the road toward the antenna.

When you reach the antenna the road will turn into a trail and you will be on the ascent to Baldy. For the more gradual ascent go straight on the left road. Soon you will see a trail open up on your right where you can head up the valley to Baldy.

5 | Brave the Bird Ridge Trail

Trailhead: Bird Ridge Trailhead, Seward Highway Difficulty: Strenuous Distance: 5 miles roundtrip, 4,700 feet elevation gain

This hike is painfully steep and arguably the hardest hike in Anchorage. Its faux peaks constantly play tricks with you, however, reaching the summit of this hike is worth every step when you see views back into the mountains of Chugach.

This was one of the highest priority hikes for us to hit in Alaska but much to our disappointment, we never got to the end of it. Even though it was hot and perfectly sunny when we started this ridiculously steep trail, a thunderstorm rolled in just as we got above the tree line and we had to turn back.

That being said, there are 3 stopping points along this trail. The first is a bench about a third of the way up and even if you only make it here, it’s still worth the 1 hour trek.

The ocean views along the way are insanely beautiful and ironically, even though there was a thunderstorm at the top, it was clear over the Turnagain Arm and the mountains across the sound.

Pro tip: It’s hard to keep track of how far you are into the hike with time. Use your phone’s compass to check your elevation instead. The summit is at 4,700 feet.

Though only a 5-mile hike, I highly recommend giving yourself an entire (preferably sunny) day to do this hike. You won’t regret it!

Getting there:

Take the Seward Highway south from Anchorage and after a short 20 or so minutes, pay close attention to spot the trail sign along the side of the highway. It’ll be on the left-hand side just after mile marker 24.

The parking lot can accommodate RVs as long as the parking lot is relatively empty. Signs mark the trail. Parking costs $5 unless you have the Alaska State Parks Pass.

6 | Ride the Winner Creek Hand Tram

Trailhead: Winner Creek Gorge Trailhead or Alyeska Resort , Girdwood Difficulty: Easy Distance: 4-6 miles roundtrip, <500 feet elevation gain

This hike in Girdwood is a must-do for everyone. The hike itself isn’t the draw here but rather the destination: a public hand tram that crosses the Winner Creek gorge.

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It’s a relatively flat 2.5-mile hike from the luxurious Alyeska Resort to the hand tram. While those with a fear of heights may choose to just watch from the sidelines, most will want to wait in line for a turn to be pulled across the Winner Creek in the hand tram.

After you’ve taken in the excitement and views, you can either backtrack (which is what we chose to do to get more miles in) or continue 2 more miles to Crow Creek Road.

This can be hiked as an out-and-back from two different trailheads or as a point-to-point hike where you can hop on the free Glacier Valley Transit Gold Mine Bus hiker shuttle provided by Alyeska Resort.

If you want to do it that way, start from Alyeska Resort, cross the hand tram, then continue to the Winner Creek Trailhead on Crow Creek Road. The same route can also be done vice versa, starting at Crow Creek Road (which can be a great place to free camp in an RV). Click here to see the bus schedule.

Disclosure: Please remember to use caution and only do what you’re comfortable with at the Winner Creek Hand Tram.

Tragically, just a few days after we visited the hand tram ourselves, someone had a fatal fall from one of the platforms and the city temporarily closed the Hand Tram. Hopefully, it’s back up and running when you visit.

Girdwood lies off of the Alyeska Highway just 30 miles from Anchorage. From the obvious junction from the Seward Highway, continue down the road until you see the signs pointing left to Winner Creek/ Crow Pass Trailhead. Drive down the dirt road for 3 miles where you’ll reach the Winner Creek Gorge Trailhead. If you want to hike from the Resort, continue down Alyeska Highway and make a left when the road ends at a stop sign. Follow this to the Alyeska Resort free parking area. The trail starts from behind the gondola.

7 | Rock Climb on Turnagain Arm

Note: This one is only for rock climbers, however, unlike most of Alaska, you don’t have to be a hardcore mountaineer to enjoy fun climbing.

We didn’t get a chance to test out these routes as the weather didn’t cooperate the day we planned to go climb, but if you’re an experienced adventurer who knows how to sport climb, don’t miss the scenic crags right along Seward Highway.

All along the highway are over a dozen different coastal crags, most of which are roadside with practically no approach making it easy to stop here for some climbing on the way to other adventures near Anchorage.

Tip: While this is an increasingly popular crag, it can still be chossy here so don’t forget a helmet.

Click here for climbing beta on Mountain Project or click here to get the top guidebook for Climbing on the Seward Highway.

8 | Hike to the Awe-Striking Crow Pass Cabin (aka Crystal Lake)

Trailhead: Crow Creek Trailhead, Girdwood Difficulty: Moderate Distance: 7 miles roundtrip (6 to the cabin), 2100 feet elevation gain

If you’re feeling up to a challenge and want some of the best views in Alaska, hike to Crow Pass Cabin.

This was hands down our favorite hike in Alaska.

While this hike still climbs 2,000 feet in 3 miles, it’s moderate and there aren’t many hikes in the US that you can get such epic views for so little work.

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I love the diversity of this hike and right from the get-go, this hike is stunning. First, the hike ascends forested switchbacks with occasional views of the mountains of Girdwood. Soon the trail sidles around the side of the mountain and enters a wide valley with green meadows and dozens of waterfalls. Here, your destination opens up before you and it’s incredible.

The trail goes from forest to alpine in a matter of seconds as you start traversing the side of a mountain (much like the Highline Trail in Glacier National Park ). Note, that this trail is often covered in patches of snow until July however we still managed to hike this safely in mid-June. After ascending the easy grade, you scramble around the top of a waterfall and are met with an incredible lake (or snowfield depending on the season).

Hike over to the Crow Pass Cabin to enjoy a snack and take in the view. You may even spot some mountain goats up here. The Crow Pass Cabin is open to the public to stay overnight however reservations are required and it books up fast. You’ll need to make reservations here really far in advance if you want to stay at this cozy little cabin in the middle of the mountains.

After taking in the cabin vibes be sure to hike half a mile further to Crow Pass summit at 8,500 feet which sits at the base of the massive Raven Glacier.

This trail is also a popular backpacking spot and you can make the slow descent along the Crow Pass Trail toward the Eagle River Nature Center. While this side of the pass isn’t quite as beautiful as the Girdwood side, it could be a fun adventure to thru-hike this 21-mile trail by leaving a car at the Eagle River Nature Center before starting this trek.

There are a few designated campsites within the Eagle River side of the pass however you are allowed to backcountry camp anywhere in the wilderness here as long as you’re more than half a mile away from a trailhead.

Click here for more details on backpacking the Crow Pass Trail.

Getting There

Getting here requires driving 6 miles down a dirt road. The dirt is well maintained and we had no problem taking our RV up the road however the only sketchy part was the last mile. Just after crossing a bridge, the road becomes a windy one-lane road with only a few turnouts, and people were driving it fast. That being said, I did white-knuckle my RV to the trailhead, but it was early on a Thursday morning. I wouldn’t recommend doing this on a weekend.

9 | Ride Kincaid Park

Anchorage is an up-and-coming mountain biking town and the crown jewel of the trail network is Kincaid Park.

Kincaid Park is a dreamy network of long smooth trails with rolling berms, little elevation gain, and a perfect flow to everything.

This is as close as we’ve come in our travels to the smooth, rolling, hard-packed terrain that we experienced in Rotorua, New Zealand. If you love MTB, you’ll want to check out the vast network of trails here at Kincaid (which can also be hiked).

Bolling Alley combined with Toilet Bowl is a must-do ride at Kincaid Park. This loop trail is ridden counterclockwise on odd days, and clockwise on even days. Toilet Bowl is a small sub-loop along Bolling Alley and is so fun you’ll want to ride this half-mile loop over and over again.

Another top ride you can’t miss is Lee’s Train to GFB to Good Greef. This ride has only a few really fun sections, but they’re worth the ride over.

The Kincaid Park trailhead is right next to the Jodhpur Motocross Track. The trailhead is reached by heading west on Kincaid Road or West Diamond Blvd. The parking lot holds about 30 cars and usually has room for RV’s unless the lot is full.

10 | Hike the Gold Mint Trail

Trailhead: Gold Mint Trailhead, Hatcher Pass Difficulty: Easy (except the part right by the hut) Distance: 9 miles roundtrip to the hut, 2500 feet elevation gain

If you head 45 minutes north of Anchorage, you’ll be at the start of a dozen or so hikes in the Hatcher Pass area. We were there early in June and a lot of the more stunning alpine lake hikes were still under snow so we opted for a few miles of the Gold Mint trail.

The Gold Mint trail is a popular and relatively easy backpacking trail that a lot of locals tackle early in the season when they’re antsy to get outdoors. This trail goes through the mountains, past Mint Glacier, to a gorgeous little mountaineer’s hut which is considered one of “America’s Most Beautiful Backcountry Huts” by Backpacker Magazine .

The Hut is run by the Alaska Mountaineering Club and if you’re a member (which costs a whopping $20 per year) you’re welcome to use the Mint Hut which is rad because it’s equipped with a full kitchen and other supplies.

We weren’t prepared nor did we have time to tackle a big 9-mile hike at the time and just enjoyed hiking the first few miles of the trail. It’s relatively flat and good for younger kids but in retrospect, I wish I had prioritized the trek to this incredible hut.

For details on the full hike click here.

Hatcher Pass is accessed from the Palmer-Wasilla area. From the turnoff, it’s a 7-mile drive up the scenic highway.

Pro tip : If you are in an RV, this trailhead also serves as a campground and the backdrop of the mountains makes for an epic camping destination.  

Free Adventure Resource Bundle

Before you head out on your epic Anchorage adventures, be sure to download our free adventure resource bundle with printable pack lists, trail guides & unbiased gear review where we share our honest opinion about our favorite hiking gear.

11 | Hike Flattop Mountain

Trailhead: Glen Alps Trailhead, Anchorage Difficulty: Moderate Distance: 3.4 miles roundtrip, 1400 feet elevation gain

Much like Mt Baldy, Flattop is another one of the most popular summits to bag near Anchorage and probably the most hiked mountain in all of Alaska because of its relative ease of hiking.

With views of the Chugach Mountains, Anchorage, and the Alaska Range, and being less than a 4-mile roundtrip hike to the summit, it’s not hard to see why it’s so popular.

Because of the popularity, it’s best to not hike this on a weekend, or try to hike it early or late in the day (the sun isn’t going anywhere). If the season is right, this is also a popular place to view the northern lights from.

Take the O’Malley Road exit and head east. Turn right on Hillside Drive then left on Upper Huffman Dr. Turn right onto Toilsome Hill Drive where the road will eventually turn into Glen Alps Rd. After 2 miles you’ll see a sign for the Glen Alps/Flattop Mountain Trailhead.

12 | Summit Anchorage’s Highest Peak

Trailhead: Glen Alps Trailhead, Anchorage Difficulty: Strenuous Distance: 9 miles roundtrip, 2200 feet elevation gain

If you’re up for a challenge and are prepared for a big adventure, from the same trailhead as Flattop Mountain you can also tackle the more strenuous and prestigious summit, O’Malley Peak.

This is an iconic and gorgeous Anchorage day hike, perfect for experienced hikers (and adrenaline junkies).

Reaching its 5,100-foot summit involves scrambling and a little bit of route finding but you’ll be rewarded with epic views from Anchorage’s highest peak.

Click here for a full route description .

Access to this trailhead same as to Flattop Mountain (see number 11)

13 | Mountain Bike Hillside Park

Hillside Park is another mountain biking hotspot of Anchorage. In the summer, this public ski area transforms into a downhill mountain biking hub filled with everything a mountain biker wants out of a trial: whoops, swoops, and berms.

Compared to Kincaid Park, Hillside Park is more suited to intermediate to advanced bikers with its steeper trails and gnarlier berms.

Beginners can’t miss the cross-country trial, Queen Bee and Intermediate to Advanced riders will be stoked by the steep berms and jumps of Jeff’s Whoop Whoop downhill-only trail. Whoop Whoop is possible for intermediate riders but you may have to walk in some spots because it can be quite steep.

Head east on Abbot Road until you see signs for Hillside Park. There are two dirt lots to park at with plenty of room for RVs.

14 | Hike to Rabbit Lakes + McHugh Peak

Trailhead: Rabbit Creek Trailhead or McHugh Creek Trailhead Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous Distance: 13 (from McHugh TH) or 9 (from Rabbit Lakes TH) miles roundtrip, 2200 feet elevation gain

What makes this hike so amazing is the beautiful alpine lake that sits nestled beneath the jagged, sharp Suicide Peaks.

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There are two different trailheads you can access this lake from: one on the south by Turnagain Arm (McHugh Creek Trailhead) and one from the west on the outskirts of Anchorage (Rabbit Creek Trailhead).

Trekking from the McHugh Creek Trailhead involves a longer and more challenging route, offering the chance to traverse a breathtaking glacial valley and admire the serene McHugh Lake along the way.

Opting for the Rabbit Creek trailhead covers a 9-mile distance and provides a relatively manageable hike. Starting here allows for the flexibility to conserve energy and potentially extend the journey towards Suicide Peaks or McHugh Peak, granting panoramic views overlooking the picturesque lake below.

Click here to see how you can extend the hike onto Suicide Peaks or if you’re an experienced hiker, I highly recommend combining it with McHugh Peak (see the green route below) which is another one of Anchorage’s most popular summits.

Click here to see an ultimate guide to the different ways to hike up McHugh Peak.

Easy Outdoor Activities in Anchorage

15 | explore virgin creek falls.

This barely counts as a hike since it’s only a short .4-mile roundtrip to reach this waterfall. Virgin Creek Falls is the easiest hike you’ll ever do and is a must-do when you are in Girdwood.

The beautiful little waterfall is not epic but an incredibly peaceful and magical place. The water ions that fly off the waterfall are up close and personal and you can’t help but feel rejuvenated after visiting.

The trailhead starts in a cul-de-sac at the end of Timberline Street. There’s room to park if you are driving an RV but if you camp in the overnight lot at the Aleyska Ski Resort, it’s an easy 20-minute walk through the residential area and you can see some pretty rad houses along the way.

The actual trail to the falls is only about 5 minutes and wanders through a lush temperate rainforest filled with mosses, lichen, and ferns.

Click here to get the hiking details from Alltrails

16 | Stop at Beluga Point

Beluga Point, which lies at mile marker 16, is a great place not only to take in the view but also a great place to look for, you guessed it, Beluga Whales. The best chance of seeing whales is actually about a half hour after the low tide…see below.

Another incredible sight you could spot here is the miraculous phenomenon of a bore tide. A bore tide happens on extremely low tides when there’s at least a 27-foot difference between high and low tides. When seawater rushes from a wide bay to a narrow and shallow inlet, it forms waves AKA a bore tide.

Bore tides occur daily on Turnagain Arm but of course, sometimes the effect is much greater. You can see the bore tide along the entire 50-mile stretch of highway on Turnagain Arm and with a variety of pullouts along the whole road, it’s hard to miss the incredible occurrence when you’re driving here.

Now here’s the coolest part, you can SURF the bore tide! If I only had known this before, I would’ve been chasing low tide every day.

All you do is walk or paddle out to the middle of the inlet as if you were going to catch a regular ocean wave. The bore tide is surfable about 5 days per month because you’re going to need a larger bore tide to be able to surf it. The best odds of a big bore tide are usually in the five-day window surrounding new and full moons. Note: Do not try this unless you’re an experienced surfer.

Check tide charts here or click here to see the estimated times of Bore Tide along Turnagain Arm.

17 | Explore Independence Mine

Among Hatcher Pass’s variety of spectacular hikes is an awesome exploration that you wouldn’t expect to find amidst mountains like these.

Independence Mine sits at the top of Hatcher Pass right before the road turns into dirt and is a historic gold rush mine from the 1930s. The mine is not only a great place to explore, but it’s a great photography spot.

Unfortunately due to inclement weather, we had to turn around before reaching the mine but note that just the walk along the road up to the mine was really beautiful.

Independence Mine is accessible year-round. In the summer, there is a parking area right by the mine making it so that there’s almost no hike up. When the access road is closed, which is usually from October until the end of June, it’s about a 1-mile hike to get up to the Mine.

18 | Look for Wildlife at Potter Marsh

Potter Marsh , which lies 9 miles from Anchorage, is a popular spot to view wildlife like moose, birds, and more. There is a boardwalk around the marsh with interactive signs along the way.

From Potter Marsh, you can also opt to hike part of the Turnagain Arm Trail which runs 10 miles to Windy. Hike to the McHugh Creek Picnic Area for a nice, easy 6-mile hike.

19 | Ride the Gird to Bird Bike Path

One of the greatest hidden gems near Anchorage is the scenic Bird to Gird bike path, except that it isn’t exactly hidden. It sits directly parallel to the Seward Highway.

The bike path is 13 miles long from point to point from Indian to Girdwood however, the iconic Bird to Gird section is from Bird Point to Girdwood.

Bird Point lies at mile marker 30 and access to the bike path is right from the parking lot. Unlike the section of bike paths between Bird and Indian, going from Bird to Gird requires ascending and descending 300 feet over a little hill which was the location of the old Seward Highway but even still, the path is easy and perfect for all ages.

We opted to ride from Bird to Indian and it was beautiful as well.

Pro tip: Camp at Bird Campground and you’ll have access to an amazing bike ride right from your front door.

20 | Cruise the Coastal Path

One of downtown Anchorage’s coolest features is the paved bike path that runs along the coast. This 11-mile path runs from Kincaid Park to downtown. This makes for a perfect chill bike ride or a pleasant walk.

Considering the path lies within in a major city, it’s pretty incredible how beautiful the route is. It goes past rivers, and along the sea, and you can see gorgeous mountains across the Cook Inlet. You may even be able to spot Mount McKinley.

Pro tip: Want to explore downtown Anchorage? Make it an adventure and park at one of the town parks like Lynn Ary Park or Earthquake Park where free parking is abundant and walk, bike, or even skate into town for a treat like Wild Scoops ice cream (see number 21).

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Places to Eat in Anchorage

21 | enjoy the most delicious ice cream ever at wild scoops.

How can dairy-free ice cream taste this good?!   Three people in my family have a dairy allergy and have learned to give up craving ice cream…that is until we stumbled upon Wild Scoops at a farmers market.

This is the absolute best vegan ice cream I have EVER tasted!

I had no idea coconut-based ice creams could be so good and I couldn’t get enough of their vegan chocolate Oreo.

Don’t even get me started on all the dairy-filled goodness of their other flavors like AK Honeycomb (Sweet cream + homemade honeycomb candy with Gabel Family Honey) and Yukon Gold (Sweet cream + homemade fudge + AK Chip Co potato chip toffee) 😋. If you love milk then the challenge for you will be deciding what pint to take home because you will want some for later.

Tip: Hike along the Coastal Path (see number 20) to the downtown location of Wild Scoops so you can earn those calories.

22 | Grab Goodies Fire Island   Bakeshop

If you are paleo, keto, gluten-free, etc just stop reading now because the temptation of Fire Island’s perfectly golden, rustic loaves of sourdough is ridiculously tempting. If are obsessed with high-quality sourdough bread, scones, and fancy desserts, you will love Fire Island.

Fire Island has three locations, two of which we visited ourselves: downtown Anchorage, South Anchorage, and Airport Heights. I loved the chic, industrial, and open-air vibe of the South Anchorage location and found this to be a great place to get some work done.

I also loved the Airport Heights location for its more rustic feel. This shop also has an awesome community feel to it and even hosts a weekly farmers market in the parking lot.

23 | Eat at the Famous Moose’s Tooth Pizzeria

World-famous Moose’s Tooth Pizzeria is THE place to eat in Anchorage. Now while I can’t vouch for the pizza personally due to a dairy allergy (#tragic), I’ve been told by Anchorage locals that Moose Tooth lives up to the hype.

Above photos via The Moose’s Tooth

Moose’s Tooth is more than just a pizzeria though. The restaurant hosts incredible outdoor concerts in the summer. Also, don’t miss their sister restaurants: Bear Tooth TheatrePub (a restaurant located inside in a fully operational movie theater that also hosts epic concerts), the Beartooth Grill (which serves Alaskan cuisine with local ingredients), and the Broken Tooth Brewery.

24 | Go to a Local Farmers Market

Located in one of the most pristine places on earth, it’s no surprise that local Anchorage farmers grow some of the best produce I’ve ever tasted. In addition, Anchorage is filled with dozens of artisans who create incredible kimchi, salsa, chocolate, and more.

Going to a farmers market is an amazing way to get a taste of local cuisine and with Alaska being so famous for its wild-caught fish, a trip to the farmers market isn’t complete without grabbing some fresh fish.

We decided to visit the Airport Heights farmers market which we loved because it had everything we loved but was small and not too overwhelming. Other neighborhood markets would be similar to this one as well.

The Downtown Anchorage market is of course the largest farmer market and is best if you’re looking to eat at food trucks rather than find fresh food to prepare yourself.

If you want the best seafood, you’ll want to go to the Spenard farmers market which has a huge variety of fish and veggie vendors.

Find a list of Anchorage farmers market dates and locations by clicking here.

25 | Stop by Girdwood Brewing Company

It’s hard to travel this much and not become a bit of a brewery snob. Girdwood Brewing Co was one of our all-time favs! We spent every single evening in Girdwood hanging out here.

Girdwood Brewing Co. had a great beer (a particularly good hazy IPA) on tap, everyone working the bar was nice, and the daily rotation of food trucks was AMAZING. One night there was a creperie, one night was Mediterranean, and one night was our favorite, Texas-style BBQ.

The brewery has great seating outside with rad mountain views and fire pits, and the inside was spacious enough for families (it’s super kid-friendly) and groups to play board games while you eat and drink.

If beer isn’t your thing, right next door to The Bake Shop (another essential stop in Girdwood) at the base of Alyeska Day Lodge is La Bodega. They have such a huge diversity of wines from all over the world and most are under $25.

After Anchorage, I hope you have time to explore the Kenai peninsula . We loved Anchorage, but the Kenai peninsula was our favorite place in all of Alaska. Even if you don’t have time to do it all, I still recommend setting aside an hour or two to drive to the Turnagain Arm rest area. You’ll get amazing mountain views and at least get a sense of what this area is like. 

Related Alaska Resources:

• Denali National Park: Ultimate guide to hiking and camping
• Ultimate Guide to Skagway, Haines, and Whitehorse
• 15 Can’t-Miss Things to Do on the Kenai Peninsula
• YouTube Video: Best Things to Do In Anchorage Alaska

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18 Fun Things To Do In Anchorage Alaska

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For many, Anchorage is just a starting point for adventure in Alaska . But there are so many things to do in Anchorage Alaska; you could easily spend your entire trip in and around this city if you wanted to.

I spent a few days in the city during my trip to Alaska and I soon realized there are so many things to see in Anchorage – I honestly wished I could stay longer.

Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska and the furthest north city in the United States. It’s actually further north than Oslo, Norway, and Helsinki, Finland.

Because of its location, some quieter regions around Anchorage have some of the best viewings of the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) than many other places worldwide. And during the summer, Anchorage has up to 22 hours of daylight!

Anchorage is also an excellent starting point for hikes – I have been on a few that were just a stone’s throw from the city. The city is surrounded by some incredible mountain ranges. In fact, on a clear day, you can see up to six different mountain ranges from Anchorage, Alaska.

Flattop Mountain is a popular day hike from Anchorage with incredible views. But there are many other trails, paths, and other things to do near Anchorage that can’t be missed.

In this article, I’ll discuss the best things to do in Anchorage Alaska. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the jaw-dropping state or spend a few days exploring the remarkable nature, you’re in luck.

Ready to learn more about what to do in Anchorage, Alaska, and all the fun it offers? Let’s get started!

If you are in the planning stages of your Alaska trip, you will find my posts What To Know Before Visiting Alaska and The Best Things To Do In Alaska .

Table of Contents

The Best Things To Do In Anchorage Alaska

Start with the anchorage museum.

The first thing you should do on your trip to Alaska is visit the Anchorage Museum.

The Anchorage Museum is located in the heart of Anchorage. It is

“ a large art, history, ethnography, ecology, and science museum…dedicated to studying and exploring the land, peoples, art, and history of Alaska. “ The Anchorage Portal

Visiting is one of the unmissable things to do in Anchorage to learn more about Alaska, and you’ll want to do this before exploring the rest of the region. By visiting the Anchorage Museum first, you’ll be able to spend the rest of your days in Alaska with a fresh understanding of the unique history and ecology of the state.

The Anchorage Museum currently has three permanent exhibitions: Alaska Exhibition, Art of the North, and Living our Cultures, Sharing our Heritage. Several revolving exhibitions focus on more specific aspects of Alaskan history and heritage.

The exhibitions depict the state and its history through various methods and perspectives.

You’ll leave the Anchorage Museum feeling much more enlightened and informed about the city, the state, and the role it plays culturally, politically, and environmentally.

You can get tickets to the Anchorage Museum directly at the door, but if you want they are also available for purchase online.

Visit the Alaskan Native Heritage Center

The Alaskan Native Heritage Center is one of the top things to see in Anchorage for museum lovers, history buffs, and travelers who want a peek into the language, art, and culture of native Alaskans.

The Alaskan Native Heritage Center is a nonprofit organization established to share information about the many different cultures, tribes, and people in Alaska with tourists and with one another. By sharing with others, one can learn more about themselves and where they come from.

The Alaskan Native Heritage Center follows the hands-on approach and includes demonstrations of native culture, like dances, games, and art. There’s even a woodland area around the building showcasing traditional dwellings. And you can talk with culture keepers one-on-one who can help explain more about the way of life.

There’s so much to see and do in the heritage center you can easily spend a few hours.

While the Anchorage Museum is a must-see for anyone before their adventure, the Alaskan Native Heritage Center is highly recommended for those who want an even deeper understanding.

Stroll along Fourth Avenue

Fourth Avenue is located in the downtown historic district of Anchorage. The 4th Avenue Theater was once the centerpiece of Fourth Avenue. It was a single-screen movie theater that was recently torn down after being vacant for over 15 years.

But despite losing the historic 4th Avenue Theater, there’s still much to see and do along Fourth Avenue.

Peratrovich Park is in the center of Fourth Avenue. It was named after Elizabeth and Roy Peratrovich, who were known for their fight for equal rights for native Alaskans. Just past Fourth Avenue, you’ll find Elderberry Park, which provides the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail access.

The Old City Hall, Log Cabin Visitor Information Center, and Anchorage Trolley Tours are all also located on Fourth Avenue.

Souvenir shopping along 4th Avenue

If you find yourself on 4th Avenue, you should also spend some time souvenir shopping – it’s one of the nicest things to do in Anchorage Alaska. In addition to all the historical buildings and parks, there’s a line of beautiful homemade souvenir shops.

Whether you’re looking for something simple, like magnets, postcards, t-shirts, and mugs, or something more sentimental, like handcrafted jewelry, wall decorations, and rugs, you’ll find it here.

I’d recommend sticking to locally-made souvenirs whenever possible and supporting local businesses. It’s much better for the Alaskan economy and the people when you buy souvenirs at small companies versus a large superstore or something.

4th Avenue is arguably one of the best places for shopping in all of Alaska, so leave time (and space in your luggage) for a few tokens of your trip or gifts for your family and friends back home.

Go on a Trolley Tour of Anchorage

The Trolley Tour is definitely one of the top things to do in Anchorage Alaska, and surely one of those I enjoyed the most. The tours leave from Fourth Avenue, in front of the Log Cabin.

There are two different trolley tours, one longer and one shorter.

The shorter tour is the One-Hour Trolley Tour. It includes a quick stop at all of the main historical attractions in downtown Anchorage, including Lake Hood and several scenic viewpoints.

It’s not a hop-on-hop-off style, so you can relax and enjoy the view during the trolley ride.

The longer tour – which is the one I did – is the Deluxe Trolley Tour, about two hours of exploring Anchorage on the hop-on-hop-off trolley bus. This tour stops at Lake Hood Seaplane Base Ship Creek, Earthquake Park, and Point Woronzof. You’ll get 10-15 minutes to explore each stop.

Both tours come with a knowledgeable guide who walks you through everything you pass, from start to finish, and runs a live commentary while you are on the bus. You will also be able to see some wildlife during the tour (we spotted a few female moose right outside the city!).

I’d recommend the Deluxe Trolley Tour because it’s much more interactive, as you can get off the bus and explore each point of interest for a few minutes. You also visit a few exclusive spots and have more time to learn about the history of Anchorage.

Explore Anchorage Mushing District

The Anchorage Mushing District is a 4th Avenue district dedicated to the education and celebration of mushing in Alaska.

Mushing, or dog sledding, has a deep history in Alaska. While people have been using dogs for transportation for centuries, it gained rapid popularity in Alaska during the Alaskan Gold Rush in 1896.

The first dog sled race took place in Nome, Alaska, in 1906, and dog mushing was dubbed Alaska’s official state sport in 1972. The first ever Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race (a well-known mushing race stretching from Anchorage to Nome) was in 1973.

You might also have seen the movie Balto. The Universal Pictures’ childhood classic is a movie about a dog named Balto, who raced from Fairbanks to Nome with a life-saving serum during a diphtheria epidemic. The film was based on a true story and is an incredible hero story in Alaskan history.

The Anchorage Mushing District pays homage to all of this and highlights the valuable impact of mushing in Alaska, and it’s one of the things to see in Anchorage.

You can identify the Mushing District by signs on the light posts, circle imprints on the sidewalk, and dedicated sculptures with mushing facts throughout.

Ride the Alaska Anchorage Railroad

The Alaska Railroad connects Seward to Fairbanks, stretching 756 km (470 miles) each way. It stops at many points of interest in Alaska, including Whittier, Talkeetna, and Denali.

If you’re planning any Anchorage day trips, consider riding the Anchorage Railroad for at least one of them.

The train ride from Anchorage Depot to Whittier Depot takes about two and a half hours each way, making it the perfect day trip if you don’t have more time for Whittier and the surrounding area.

The route between Anchorage and Whittier is called the Glacier Discovery Route. It also stops at Girdwood, Portage, Spender, and Grandview.

Talkeetna is another incredible day trip that can reached by train from Anchorage. The train ride takes about two and a half hours.

The route between Anchorage and Talkeetna is called the Denali Star Route. It also stops at Wasilla before you arrive in Talkeetna. The train continues onto Denali and Fairbanks after stopping in Talkeetna.

The train is an incredible experience, offering beautiful mountains, glaciers, and natural Alaska views. But there’s more. The train is also rooted in Alaskan history, as it’s been around since the early 1900s. Rail travel was actually established well before car travel and is still used to this day.

Check out the Earthquake Park

The Earthquake Park is a 134-acre park right in Anchorage and paints a dramatic picture of the permanent alternations from the largest recorded earthquake in U.S. history.

On March 27th, 1964, an entire area of Anchorage slid into the water due to a magnitude 9.2 earthquake.

A sharp drop-off north of the park and other little earthquake remnants scattered around the land.

You can walk along a well-maintained trail through Earthquake Park with beautiful trees and signs explaining the tragic event. Walking the path takes about 30 minutes, but you can bring snacks and have a nice picnic in the park.

Earthquake Park is one of the stops of the Trolley Tour of Anchorage and can also be accessed through the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail.

Bike the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail

The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is an eleven-mile bike trail from Anchorage and winding up the coast. It’s the most popular bike trail in Anchorage, with several other attractions, like the Earthquake Park.

The trail has incredible views of downtown Anchorage, Chugach Mountains, Mt. McKinley, Sleeping Lady, and Fire Island.

The trail runs past the coast, giving you good views and access to the mud flats as the tide changes.

Once you pass Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC), there’s a good chance you’ll pass by some moose and other wildlife, too.

There are several places to rent bikes for the day in Anchorage; most are near one of the entrances to the coastal trail.

You can also join this Coastal Trail 3-Hour City Bike Tour , where you’ll be given a bike and all other equipment and you will be accompanied by a local guide who can teach you about each place you pass by.

Visit the Alaska Aviation Museum

For anyone interested in all things airplanes and aviation, the Alaska Aviation Museum is one of the things to see in Anchorage.

The Aviation Museum has many aircraft and artifacts with a unique backstory. The Aviation Museum is only half a mile from Ted Stevens International Airport, so it’s a great place to sit and watch the airplanes coming and going.

There’s also a live radio from the feed tower, a restoration hangar where people are working on old aircraft, a control tower to watch seaplanes land and take off, and flight simulators for those who want to go.

Dine Downtown at Haute Quarter Grill

Haute Quarter Grill is one of the best restaurants in Anchorage and is definitely worth a visit for dinner.

Haute Quarter Grill tries to use fresh, locally caught ingredients for all menu items. The menu changes every few months, and daily specials are based on what was brought in that morning.

If you’re looking for an excellent place for dinner, this should be your first stop in Anchorage, Alaska. Although, it’s best to make a reservation beforehand if possible as this is an extremely popular spot among locals.

Dinner with sunset view at Simon and Seafort’s

Simon and Seafort’s has some of the best views of Anchorage, with some of the best meals.

The restaurant has been around for over 40 years and has earned an excellent reputation for high-quality dining, impeccable service, and great lunch deals.

They have world-class cocktails and a revolving menu based on what’s fresh and in-season. We tried the mixed appetizers and they were all delicious, and there is a great selection of wines. It’s not cheap, but worth it. Again, it’s recommended to make a reservation ahead of time.

Enjoy the most scrumptious breakfast at Snow City

Snow City Cafe is a popular downtown brunch spot serving breakfast and other menu items all day.

The food is excellent, and the service is unbeatable. And like the previous two dinner spots, Snow City Cafe uses only fresh ingredients, and everything is made from scratch.

It’s known for its tasty breakfast dishes, but everything on the menu looks mouth-watering. If you’re looking for the best breakfast in Anchorage, you must check it out yourself.

One thing to be aware of is that Snow City Cafe doesn’t take reservations. Once you get there, you can put your name on the list (they have handy iPads by the cashier’s desk). Service is quick, so you won’t be waiting long and in the meantime you can grab a coffee from the bar.

Mingle with locals at Moose Tooth

Moose Tooth is the most famous pizza joint in Anchorage. It’s located in Midtown, Anchorage, off the Old Seward Highway.

There are over 40 pizzas, each made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. And there are tons of home-brewed beers, as well. The beers are often on rotation, but you can’t go wrong with them.

Moose Tooth offers delivery and take-out, but I’d highly recommend stopping in and enjoying the lively atmosphere around the pub.

The pub is usually full of people, and while your food may take a while, you won’t notice the time passing even for a second.

Moose Tooth is also the place to go for live music. It’s the place to be during small yet well-known concerts.

Hike Flattop Mountain

Flattop Mountain is one of the most popular hikes in all of Alaska because of its incredible views and ease of access.

Flattop Mountain is only about 30 minutes from downtown Anchorage. You can easily drive or take a shuttle to enjoy this multi-level hike. It’s one of the best things to do near Anchorage.

From Glen Alps Trailhead (where you should start the hike) to the peak of Flattop Mountain, it’s roughly 5 km (3 miles) and 455 meters (1,500 ft) of elevation gain. Most trails have a rather tricky ending to the hike, where you have to climb up a very steep portion.

It’s actually quite a challenge, and I don’t recommend doing it if you suffer from vertigo. But otherwise, once you get to the top the views are stunning.

However, there are some beginner trail loops right below Flattop Mountain for those worried about the hike.

The view along Flattop Mountain is right out of an Alaskan picture book. You’ll be treated to panoramic views of Denali (Mt. McKinley), Chugach Mountain Range, Aleutian Islands, and more.

If you don’t have your own, there’s a shuttle from downtown Anchorage (Downtown Bike Rental) to the Flattop Mountain trailhead.

Hike the Portage Pass in Whittier

The Portage Pass in Whittier is another popular hike for the more physically active and ambitious travelers and one of the best things to do near Anchorage.

The hike is about 6.5 km (4 miles), with an elevation gain of 425 meters (1,400 ft). While the hike isn’t so long, there are two rather steep parts. The views at the end are well worth the effort, though.

You’ll be treated to breathtaking mountain views encompassing Portage Glacier, with Portage Lake in front. Portage Glacier used to be massive and take up practically the entire area. However, it’s retreating due to warmer temperatures, and Portage Lake in its place is the result.

Once you reach the top of Portage Pass, you can turn around where you came from or continue down the trail to reach Portage Lake. This is a more up-close-and-person view that’s well worth the extra effort.

You can drive to the start of Portage Pass from Anchorage, which only takes about an hour and a half each way. You can also take the Alaskan Rail Road from downtown Anchorage to Whittier and walk about 2.4 km (1.5 miles) to the start of Portage Pass.

Otherwise, if you prefer someone do all the planning for you, I recommend this full-day tour from Anchorage that also stops at the Wildlife Conservation Center and includes a cruise on Portage Lake.

Check out the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to research, education, conservation, and animal care of the local wildlife.

The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is unlike any zoo you’ve ever visited; it’s much better. The sanctuary takes on injured animals year-round, providing them with a safe space, plenty of time, and quality care during rehabilitation.

After they complete rehab, they are released back into the wild whenever possible – but at times, this simply isn’t a possibility.

Some permanent residents, including wolves, black bears, brown bears, coyotes, moose, elk, foxes, a lynx, reindeer, bald eagles, and more, cannot be released.

You can visit the animals here, learn about each animal’s backstory and how they ended up in the conservation center, and discover more about Alaskan wildlife. It’s one of the best things to do in Anchorage with kids.

Take a day trip to Matanuska Glacier

Matanuska Glacier is another one of the most accessible glaciers in Alaska. It’s a 27-mile-long glacier river of ice flowing from the Chugach Mountains toward the Glenn Highway.

Matanuska Glacier is a valley glacier with several streams of ice flowing around the wide radius of the Matanuska River.

The glacier is located about two and a half hours northeast of Anchorage, making for a great day trip from Anchorage. Access is right off Glenn Highway, one of the most underrated highways in Alaska.

It’s less frequently traveled, not on the main path or railroad route. But it offers stunning views of the mountains, glaciers, and Alaskan wildlife.

Access to the glacier is private, so you’ll have to stop in at the visitor center, pay a fee, and sign a waiver and you will be assigned a guide for your visit.

If you aren’t driving, you can take t his Matanuska Glacier Full-Day Tour , which organizes transportation, fees, light snacks, and water and includes an educational guide to make the most of the trip.

No matter how you decide to visit Matanuska Glacier, you’re in for a real treat. The views just can’t be beaten, and the entire experience is excellent from start to finish.

My post What To See On Day Trips From Anchorage gives you more options of places to visit near the city.

Further Readings

These other posts will be useful when planning your trip to Alaska:

• How To Hike The Harding Icefield
• How To Hike The Savage Alpine Trail In Denali National Park
• A Useful Denali National Park Guide
• A Useful Guide To Seward

Pin It For Later!

Claudia Tavani

Claudia was born and raised in Italy, but she also lived in New York, Denver, and London. She's a professional travel blogger and certified travel designer who loves planning trips, sharing travel hacks, and packing lists so that you don't have to. Owner of My Adventures Across The World, solo traveler, cat mom to Minnie. Claudia has been featured by the Lonely Planet and the Huffington Post. She has visited more than 80 countries.

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Things to Do in Anchorage, AK - Anchorage Attractions

Things to do in anchorage.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Big Groups
• Budget-friendly
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Good for Kids
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Honeymoon spot
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center

2. Girdwood Brewing Company

3. Double Shovel Cider Company

4. Alaska Jewish Museum

5. Frosted Axe Throwing

6. Alaska Helicopter Tours

7. Alaska Mint

8. Greatland Adventures

9. 4th Avenue Marketplace

10. Vortex VR

11. Midtown Mall

12. Alaska E-Bike

13. Anchorage Bridge Center

14. Phillips Cruises and Tours

15. BAC Transportation

16. The Aurora Show

17. The Quilt Cache

18. 5th Avenue Jewelers

19. Sweet Cheeks Cabaret

20. The Hoarding Marmot

21. Alaska Dance Promotions

22. Anchorage Downtown TourGroup

23. Alaska Outdor Gear Rental

24. Learn To Return

25. Alaska Lift

26. Gray Line Anchorage

What travelers are saying

16 ways to explore Anchorage, Alaska’s biggest city

Feb 7, 2022 • 8 min read

Whether you prefer getting dirty while exploring the Chugach Mountains or joining a block party under the midnight sun, you'll find your nirvana in Anchorage © O'hara Shipe / Lonely Planet

As Alaska's biggest city, Anchorage is a veritable cornucopia of adventure. Whether you prefer indulging in fine dining while overlooking Cook Inlet or getting dirty while exploring the Chugach Mountains, you'll find your nirvana here.

Put on your best flannels and get ready for one big, wild ride as we share 16 of the best ways to enjoy Alaska's only metropolis.

Take a midnight stroll on the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail

There's only one place to be on Alaska's long summer nights – the iconic  Tony Knowles Coastal Trail . Named for a former governor, this 11-mile paved trail follows the shore and provides unparalleled views of downtown Anchorage, the Chugach Mountains, Mt McKinley and Fire Island.

You're likely to run into moose, sandhill cranes, bears and a bunch of locals along the way; just be respectful of the environment and don't approach the wildlife or the mudflats, as both can be very dangerous. Traverse the somewhat hilly trail on foot or via e-bike, which can be affordably rented at Pablo's Bicycle Rentals . 

Enjoy a beer flight at 49th State Brewing

Anchorage is quickly becoming a hotbed for craft brewing, but the best of the best remains  49th State Brewing . Located downtown, this three-story pub serves up stunning views of Cook Inlet alongside plates of red king crab, Alaskan king salmon and giant German pretzels, plus some of the best beer you'll ever taste. Choose from more than 25 craft beers on tap (try the award-winning Smōk), or order a flight to sample a series of six seasonal brews. Make reservations in advance, as this hotspot is generally very crowded.

Go urban fishing at Ship Creek

If ever there were a perfect example of Anchorage's dual personality – equal parts urban and untamed – it's Ship Creek . The world's only metropolitan king-salmon fishery, Ship Creek is located in the heart of downtown Anchorage.

Fishers from around the world congregate on the river's muddy shores during the second week of June for the Slam'n Salm'n Derby , bagging salmon weighing as much as 40lbs in hopes of taking home the grand prize. Before you cast your line, stop by the  Bait Shack to purchase a fishing license, rent gear and get tips from the locals. 

Hike the Chugach Mountains

The Chugach Mountains are calling, and we recommend you heed their call – visible from anywhere in Anchorage, they're full of marked trails waiting to be explored. Most visitors opt to scale the well-trafficked Flattop Mountain Trail . This 3-mile roundtrip route begins with rolling hills and ends with a steep traverse up a craggy rock face. When you get to the summit, make sure to take a selfie with the flagpole.

If you're looking for more of a challenge, check out the Rabbit Lake trail, a 4.4-mile trek alongside rushing rivers that ends in a valley in the shadow of two 5000ft peaks. At the base of the peaks is Rabbit Lake, the perfect place to cool off and rest before heading back.

Though both trails are well maintained, you still need to be on the lookout for danger. Bears, moose and Alaska's unofficial state bird, the mosquito, occupy the landscape. Be sure to bring plenty of deep-woods DEET, a bear bell and extra snacks in case of emergency.

Sail the seas and see 26 glaciers with Phillips Cruises & Tours

Hop on Phillips Cruises' exclusive coach in Anchorage, and arrive in Whittier for the water tour of your life. Onboard the 26 Glacier Cruise, you'll cover more than 140 miles of Prince William Sound, including College and Harriman Fjords. Keep an eye out for otters, seals, whales and puffins; lucky seafarers may even be treated to the unforgettable sight of calving glaciers.

Bears, eagles, musk ox and lynx on parade

Located about 40 minutes south of Anchorage, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is a guaranteed way to (safely) encounter Alaska's wildlife – more safari than zoo, it's home to bears, eagles, lynx, musk ox, foxes and caribou living in their natural habitat. Special tours of the facility are available, but most choose to meander around the 1.5-mile loop on their own. 

Learn to cook gourmet seafood with Twisted Spruce Kitchen

One of Anchorage's best-kept secrets is cooking classes with Twisted Spruce Kitchen . An expert in Alaskan seafood and produce, chef Natalie Janicka takes participants to the farmers market to shop for ingredients before returning to her state-of-the-art kitchen to cook. You'll get hands-on instruction, recipes and the opportunity to dine overlooking the Cook Inlet. Classes are available year-round, but in our opinion, summer offers the best experience.

Celebrate the longest and shortest days of the year

Alaska is a land of extremes: in the winter, some towns don't see the sun for three months, and in the summer, they don't see the night for three months. To mark these momentous bi-yearly shifts, downtown Anchorage hosts block parties for both winter (December 21) and summer solstice (June 21), with food, live music, beer gardens, free entertainment and local art vendors.

Be a part of one Anchorage's longest-running traditions

Fur Rendezvous has been an Anchorage tradition since 1935, and it's become bigger and better with each passing year. Held in mid-February, this 12-day festival – affectionately dubbed Fur Rondy, or Rondy for short – features dog-sled races, ice carving and sports, as well as more eccentric activities such as running with reindeer, racing outhouses and sliding down a ski slope on a mattress. It's worth braving the cold of an Alaskan winter to experience the kookiness at least once.

Ski Alyeska's 1610 acres

Only 20 minutes south of Anchorage and averaging 669 inches of snow annually, Alyeska offers some of Alaska's best skiing. Experts will love double-black-diamond trails like Alyeska Chute and Max's Traverse, while beginners will want to stick to the Lower Bowl, which is jam-packed with gentle descents. But skiing isn't the only thing this mountain offers – it's also home to the AAA Four Diamond Award–winning  Seven Glaciers Restaurant  (be sure to get a glass of wine) and a world-class luxury hotel, complete with a spa.

Eat your way through Anchorage's best restaurants

It's no secret that Alaska is famous for its seafood, but Anchorage is also home to a pizzeria slinging some of the most innovative pies around. From the Call of the Wild – loaded with reindeer sausage, steak, bacon, two kinds of mushrooms, and garlic cream sauce – to the Home Wrecker, with spicy chili, tater tots, cheddar cheese and fresh jalapeños,  Moose's Tooth is the one restaurant you have to try. (Be prepared to wait; it often takes more than two hours to get in.)

After you've had the best pizza in town, hit the fine-dining trifecta: Crow's Nest ,  Double Musky Inn  and  Glacier Brewhouse . We recommend the king crab legs at the Crow's Nest, the pepper steak at the Double Musky, and the Alaska snow-crab-stuffed roasted cod at Glacier Brewhouse.

Take in a show at the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts

The  Alaska Center for the Performing Arts  is the beating heart of Anchorage's arts scene. Working in conjunction with the Anchorage Concert Association, the PAC, as it's known, hosts internationally recognized musical acts such as  Stomp , the Piano Guys and International Guitar Night. It also supports numerous plays, ballets and comedy acts each year, including the raunchy Puddles Pity Party, a local favorite. 

Learn about Alaska Native Culture

Anchorage is located on the homelands of the Dena'ina Athabascan people, but there are 11 distinct cultures in Alaska. Learn about them all at the Alaska Native Heritage Center , where you can see Alaska Native dance and storytelling demonstrations, tour six life-size Native dwellings and purchase authentic Alaska Native art . The center is open to the public during the summer season, but private tours can be scheduled from October to mid-May.

Engage with the Alaskan arts scene at the Anchorage Museum

The Anchorage Museum has undergone significant renovations over the last few years, and it's transformed into the cultural center of Anchorage. The best time to visit is the first Friday of the month, when local artists take over for pop-up performances, talkback discussions and art demonstrations, but if you can't fit a Friday into your schedule, there's still plenty to see.

Discover the story of the state at the permanent Alaska e xhibition, or fall in love with the  Art of the North . Embrace your inner child by making gigantic bubbles, stop-animation films and Lego sculptures in the museum's Discovery Center, and don't forget to take an out-of-this-world journey in the large planetarium.

Take a carriage ride through Bootlegger's Cove

Percheron draft horses power an antique falling-front Brougham carriage from 1893 that seats up to 12. A favorite among Alaskan couples, the Horse-Drawn Carriage Company's tour through Bootlegger's Cove offers views of Cook Inlet and the Alaska Range. Upon request, your driver will gleefully recount scandalous stories about past residents, while current residents warmly wave – or even give away bouquets of fresh-cut flowers from their gardens – as you pass by. 

Party at an Anchorage dive bar

Unlike metropolitan cities in the Lower 48, Anchorage isn't known for its sceney nightlife – in fact, people here prefer a casual evening at one of the city's many dive bars to hitting the dance floor at a fancy club. But that doesn't mean you can't find fun after dark.

One of Anchorage's most notorious spots, Chilkoot Charlie's  – aka Koot's – has three stages for live music and 10 bars catering to every vibe. (There's even a tilted bar covered in women's underwear; visitors are encouraged to pin theirs on the wall.) If you have the chance, catch a Jephries show for a truly authentic Alaskan experience – just be ready to join the inevitable mosh pit.

The Gaslight and Van's Dive Bar  are also worth checking out – both are frequented by locals most days of the week, and there’s never a cover charge. 

You might also like:  The best time to visit Anchorage How to enjoy Anchorage for free, come sunshine or snow The best day trips from Anchorage for giant cabbages, Cold War citadels and craggy mountain climbs

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20 Awesome Things to do in Anchorage, Alaska + Complete City Guide

January 4, 2024

Paula Martinelli

If you are looking for the best things to do in Anchorage, Alaska then you have come to the right place! Alaska is one of the  dreamiest destinations  on the planet, and no trip to this state would be complete without exploring Anchorage. Anchorage, Alaska is one of the most remote cities in America, located in the northernmost American state.

Having spent some time  exploring Alaska on a road trip , I started my trip in Anchorage and it was love at first sight. Now, I will be sharing  all my best tips  with you in this ultimate guide to the most amazing things you should do in Anchorage so that your time here can be just as memorable as mine.

In this article, you will not only learn about the most incredible places to visit in Anchorage, Alaska but also, a  variety of activities  that covers a wide range of interests. Whether you are interested in wildlife, hiking, or nature to learn more about things Alaska is known for – I have got you covered! So without any further ado, let’s discover the best of Anchorage, AK.

You might also be interested in:

• The Perfect Alaska Itinerary for a self-drive road trip
• Packing List for Alaska + Printable
• Ultimate Bucket List in Alaska: 22 Unmissable Experiences

13. Ride the tram and hike the new Girdwood

20. take a private full-day tour in anchorage and turnagain arm, what to pack for anchorage, ak.

Read More: What is Alaska is Known for?

Top Things to do in Anchorage, Alaska

1. flightseeing around anchorage.

Let’s start this amazing list of the best things to do in Anchorage, Alaska with the most exciting experience you can get: Flightseeing!

Flying in Alaska is not only about sightseeing, but it is also about access! So especially if you are short on time, flightseeing offers the endless opportunity of you to see the best of Alaska in only a few hours. Flightseeing tours depart from Anchorage all year round and you will find multiple options to choose from, such as this amazing 2-hour and 3 landings , including walking on Knik Glacier.

There are few roads in Alaska, so flying is a way to reach remote areas inaccessible by any other means. Visit national parks such as Denali National Park , you can also fly to see bears feeding on salmon and foraging for clams. Get dropped off for a multi-day float trip. Soar to a river all your own and fish with no one else in sight. These places will just take your breath away!

For those heading to Talkeetna afterward, you’ll have the option of awesome Denali flightseeing tours too.

2. Hike the Flattop Mountain

Flattop Mountain is the most-climbed peak in Alaska and is an impressive 3,510 feet (1,067m) high! Although the trail to the top is relatively rocky and steep; hiking to the summit is one of the most rewarding things to do in Anchorage.

You’ll start from Glen Alps Trailhead which is located around 30-minutes from Downtown Anchorage, although shuttle services do run here. From there, you’ll be hiking for around 3 miles to reach the summit. Just make sure you’ve prepared yourself for the elevation gain too!

Once you reach the top you’ll be thoroughly rewarded. From the summit, you’ll get breathtaking views of Denali , the Aleutian Islands, and Mount Mckinley (if it’s a clear day). The views are truly something else, so leave yourself plenty of time at the top.

3. Visit the Anchorage Museum

The Anchorage Museum is Alaska’s largest museum and is a must-visit during your stay in the city! It’s the best place to learn about this incredible state’s history and the most interesting facts about Alaska , with exhibits detailing the gold rush era and the early settlers. You’ll also get to learn about the devastating earthquake that hit Alaska in 1956!

Throughout the year, you’ll find plenty of temporary exhibitions at the museum. However, there are also lots of permanent exhibits too including ‘Living Our Cultures’, ‘Art of the North’, and ‘Alaska’ which is one of the most popular displays!

Although you could easily spend hours wandering around the Anchorage Museum, the most popular exhibitions can be visited in a couple of hours. Just make sure you allow at least two hours for your visit as this isn’t a place you want to rush.

4. Anchorage Market

Anchorage Market is another popular thing to do in Anchorage and can be found at Diamond Center Mall on 88th Avenue. The market runs from mid-May to mid-September and is open every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday during this time of year.

Visiting this quirky market is one of the best things to do in Anchorage as you’ll get to enjoy live entertainment and taste delicious food. Not only that but over 100 vendors can be found here selling everything from handcrafted jewelry to photography prints. It’s the perfect place to grab a souvenir, so take your time and appreciate the cool atmosphere.

Did I mention it’s also FREE to get in?

Read More: Fun & Interesting Facts About Alaska

5. Go on a Glacier Cruise

If you’re heading to Alaska then you NEED to go on a glacier cruise. Luckily, I’ve got just the one for you!

The incredible 26 Glaciers Cruise is run by Phillips Cruises and departs from Whittier . It will take you through 140+ miles of the famous Prince William Sound which is one of the best places in Alaska for wildlife watching. As the name suggests, this cruise will take you past 26 awesome glaciers and through two fjords; College and Harriman.

During the trip make sure you keep your eyes peeled for wildlife! If you’re lucky you might get to spot orcas, whales, sea lions, and otters!

6. Take the unique Whittier Tunnel to hike Portage Pass

There are plenty of fantastic hikes in and around Anchorage, but you don’t want to miss out on the Portage Pass Trail. To reach the trailhead, you’ll need to drive through Whittier Tunnel first. Once you’ve exited the tunnel take a sharp left and you’re ready to start!

The hike to Portage Glacier is around 2 miles (3.2 km) long and offers stunning views of Maynard Mountain and Shakespeare’s Shoulder. You’ll also be hiking past Divide Lake and deep trenches before you begin your descent to Portage Lake.

Although you can’t get up close to Portage Glacier anymore, you’ll still get breathtaking views of it! If you listen carefully, you might even get to hear ice falling from the glacier as it continues to retreat.

7. Alaska Native Heritage Center

If you’re looking for things to do in Anchorage then make sure you head to the Alaska Native Heritage Center . Alaska is a complex state as it’s home to eleven major cultures, and the heritage center is the best place to learn about them!

During your visit, you’ll get to take an in-depth look into the native way of life but that’s not the most special part about this place. At the Alaska Native Heritage Center you’ll get to learn about the cultures through first-hand stories and dances from the local people.

Not only that but there’s a life-size traditional Alaskan longhouse just outside too which you can explore!

8. Take a scenic drive along Seward Highway

To fully appreciate the beauty of Anchorage and its surroundings, I’d recommend renting a car (or even better an RV). This gives you endless road trip opportunities but you’ll want to make sure that the Seward Highway is at the top of your Alaska bucket list !

The Seward Highway runs from Anchorage to Seward and is one of the most scenic drives you’ll ever come across. The first part of the route will take you along the Turnagain Arm where you’ll get breathtaking views of the Chugach Mountains. If you’re lucky you’ll also get to spot beluga whales! From there, you’ll continue through the Kenai Peninsula.

To make the most of this drive, allow plenty of time as there are lots of attractions to visit along the way! This includes the charming town of Girdwood and Potter Creek Viewpoint.

9. Enjoy the Bird Creek

As soon as you start your driving south out of Anchorage on the Seward Highway (AK 1), you will already see the stunning mountain views. Stop at some of the viewpoints along the road to admire the views and take some great pictures.

You will see signs on the side of the right side of the road for Bird Creek. There is a nice parking lot and a very short walk with incredible views. I visited during fall and the foliage made the views even more special. You will see the views of the Turnagain Arm, with great opportunity for photos.

10. Watch the whales at the Beluga Poing Sight

Continuing on Seward Highway , along the Cooke Inlet, you will see signs for the Beluga Point View on the right side of the road. Beluga Point is located at milepost 110.5 on the Seward Highway and only 6.5 miles south of the Anchorage city limits.

This is a great point to see Beluga whales and see the 180-degree views of the breathtaking Turnagain Arm. This is a great spot to visit at high tide when you have the highest chance of spotting the Belugas’ whiteheads popping out of the water. I drove here twice, once in the morning and another time in the mid-afternoon, and the second time I saw at least 6 beluga whales – I have to say that this sight was one of the highlights of my amazing road trip to Alaska .

If you walk along the shore, be very careful with the mudflats, as they can be more deadly than quicksand.

11. Take a scenic train ride on Alaska Railroad

Now, this is an experience I can’t recommend enough! One of the best things to do in Anchorage is to take the Coastal Classic Train that runs from Anchorage to Fairbanks or to Seward.

You’ll be traveling alongside the Turnagain Arm and will get stunning views of the Chugach Mountains, the rugged coastline, and Alaska’s backcountry wilderness along the way. Not only is the scenery spectacular, but you’ve also got a great chance of spotting wildlife too.

If you’re not planning to rent a car then hopping on this train is a great way to appreciate the area’s incredible beauty. This ticket even includes a return journey for the same day which allows you enough time to explore some of Seward too.

12. Visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center lies on the shores of the stunning Turnagain Arm,11 miles from the Girdwood turnoff, and roughly 45 miles from Anchorage. if you’re driving from Anchorage to Seward or anywhere in the Kenai Peninsula. – Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is 1 hour from Anchorage

Spread across 200 acres of land, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (AWCC) is a sizeable habitat that accommodates different species of wild animals. There are hundreds of wild species that call this center home. This includes elks, moose, caribou, lynx, black and brown bears, and many more. Stroll around on foot or drive around the 1.5-mile loop.

PRO-TIP: Check out their full schedule here and book your tickets in advance. If you are in a rush, a great option is to take this half-day tour to the Alaska Conservation Center along with visiting the Portage Valley and the Glaciers in the Valley. Another option is this tour to the Alaska Wildlife Day Tour with Free Hotel Pickup.

If you’re looking for superb views then make sure you take a trip on the Alyeska Aerial Tram ! It will take you up to the top of Mount Alyeska where you’ll get panoramic views of the surrounding glaciers and the Turnagain Arm.

Once you’ve got to the top, there are plenty of things to do like dining at the Seven Glaciers Restaurant or going paragliding. However, the best thing to do up here is to hike!

There are plenty of hikes starting from Alyeska Resort including the iconic North Face Trail which is a 2.2-mile hike. The Upper Tram Terminal Trails and the South Bowl Trails also start from here so you’ve got lots of choices.

Other Fantastic Things to do in Anchorage AK

14. visit the eagle river nature center.

Visiting the Eagle River Nature Center is a must as it’s located just 40-minutes from Downtown Anchorage. It’s easily one of the most scenic areas in Alaska and acts as the gateway to Chugach State Park (which I’ll talk about in a minute).

With a striking glacier river valley, plunging waterfalls, and towering mountain peaks – this place has so much to offer! It’s another fantastic place to hike as there are a variety of trails in the area.

If you’re looking for easy trails then I’d recommend hiking the Albert Loop Trail or the Rodak Nature Trail which offers a beaver and salmon viewing deck. However, if you’re up for a challenge then why not tackle the 23-mile Crow Pass Trail?

15. Go hiking in the Chugach State Park

The amazing Chugach State Park is famous for being one of the largest state parks in the United States and is a must-visit during your time in Anchorage. With stunning landscapes and lots of wildlife-watching opportunities, it’s a great day trip from the city.

Like many of the parks in Alaska, Chugach also offers lots of hiking trails. You’ll find 16 specific trailheads throughout the state park and over 280 miles of trails which is insane!

Whether you’re looking for a short hike or something more challenging – there’s something for everyone! However, some of the most popular trails include the Anchorage Overlook Trail, the Thunderbird Falls Trail, and the O’Malley Peak Trail.

16. Head out on a trolley tour of the city

There are plenty of things to do in Anchorage so you won’t be short of options, but going on a trolley tour of the city is a must! It’s a great way to learn about Anchorage’s history, and if you’re lucky you might come across some urban moose too.

This activity will take you on a 15-mile tour of the city and will drive past all of the iconic attractions including Earthquake Park, Lake Hood, and Westchester Lagoon.

There are two options for this activity; the standard 1-hour Trolley Tour and the Deluxe Trolley Tour . The difference between the two is that with the deluxe tour you’ll actually be able to stop at the sites rather than just drive past them.

17. Chase the Northern Lights

Seeing the Northern Lights is on everyone’s bucket list and it’s not hard to see why! Luckily for you, Alaska is one of the best places in the world to see this natural phenomenon so be prepared for plenty of late nights.

It can be difficult to decide where to start when looking for the Aurora Borealis, which is why I’d recommend checking out this Northern Lights Photo tour ! The tour lasts for around 6 hours and you’ll be picked up from your hotel before heading out into the night in search of this natural wonder.

Not only that but you’ll get personalized photography trips from the tour guide so you’ll have plenty of incredible photographs to look back on. Just keep in mind that you’re not guaranteed to spot the Northern Lights as they’re a random occurrence.

18. Go dog sledding near Anchorage

Going dog sledding is one of the most popular things to do in Anchorage and there are plenty of tour operators you can choose from. Some of the most highly-rated companies in the city include Alaska Mushing School and Greatland Adventures .

Exploring the Alaskan wilderness whilst being towed along by gorgeous dogs is quite honestly one of the coolest experiences you’ll ever have! Many of the tour operators even let you spend time with the dogs afterward so be prepared for cuteness overload.

If you’re looking for an adventure then this fantastic tour includes a dog sledding experience along a glacier and a helicopter ride – two of the BEST ways to experience Alaska!

19. Enjoy the GOOD food in Anchorage

• Moose’s Tooth : A popular place in Anchorage to get great pizza
• Bear Tooth : the same company as Moose’s Tooth which also has a movie theater.
• Glacier BrewHouse : is Anchorage’s premier celebration of local seafood, wood-grilled meats, and house-brewed beer. 
• Crow’s Nest : You can book a table for dinner and stunning views
• Kinley’s Restaurant and Bar : is the debut restaurant by Chicago-born Chef Brett Knipmeyer, who has won over Alaskans with his innovative approach to fine dining.
• Kaladi Brothers Coffee Company  is Alaska’s top coffee roaster, Kaladi’s iconic leaping red goat logo can be seen in 13 locations around the city, as well as one in Seattle; its original café can be found at 6921 Brayton Drive.

Last, but not least on this amazing list of things to do in Anchorage, is this amazing 8-hour private tour option. Especially if you are in a rush, and only have one day to explore Anchorage and the stunning area of Turnagain Arm, this is a perfect option for you!

You will start with an Anchorage city highlight tour, then you will embark on Turnagain Arm, arguably one of the most beautiful stretches of highway in the US. You will take a tram at Mt. Alyeska and catch the bird’s eye view of the stunning Turnagain, and enjoy lunch at the top of the mountain. Next, you will have a VIP visit to the Wildlife Conservation Center to see Alaska’s most famous animals.

Where to Stay in Anchorage

TOP OVERALL PICK: Hyatt Place Anchorage-Midtown

Rated: 8.7 Excellent

Hyatt Place Anchorage-Midtown provides accommodations with a restaurant, free private parking, a fitness center, and a bar. Excellent location close to most attractions. Buffet and American breakfast are available.

BUDGET: Lake Front Anchorage

Rated: 7.3 God

The Lake Front Anchorage is located on the shore of Lake Hood with amazing views and a 24-hour shuttle service from the airport. Guests can see views of the seaplane airbase from meeting rooms, the dining areas, and the outdoor green space.

BEST LOCATION: Hotel Captain Cook

Rated: 8.6 Very Good

The Hotel Captain Cook has an excellent location, just downtown Anchorage. It features 4 restaurants, 15 retail stores, and spacious and very comfortable rooms.

Anchorage Travel Information

How to get to anchorage, ak.

Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport  (ANC) is the main airport in Anchorage. Most of the flights from the United States and Canada arrive at Anchorage Airport (ANC) and the busiest time is from 10 pm to 2 am when most flights arrive from Seatle. If you arrive earlier, you can pick up your car at the airport and head to dinner, and head to your hotel . View  direct service from domestic airports ;  Look for flights to Asia and Europe for international connections.

Cruises and the state ferry system connect the Pacific Northwest with Alaska. One-way cruises depart Vancouver, British Columbia, and travel the Inside Passage in Southeast Alaska, and into Southcentral Alaska and the Anchorage area. The ferries of the  Alaska Marine Highway System  provide regular service between Bellingham, Wash., and Whittier, Alaska, 60 miles south of Anchorage

The Alaska Highway runs more than 1,300 miles between British Columbia, Canada, and Alaska. The trip to Anchorage via Canada varies by departure point, but you’ll want to plan on several days of travel time.

I drove from Anchorage to Seward , and the drive is long, but don’t you worry! This is a scenic road, with great views of mountains and the coast. You will take the scenic Seward Highway once again. Drive along the Cooke Inlet and Turnagain Arm – don’t forget to keep an eye for Belugas 😉

You can save on your rental car when you book through this site . I use and recommend Discover Cars because it is the most reliable rental car source, and it allows you to compare the prices of different places.

Weather in Anchorage, AK?

The summers are cool, wet, and overcast and the winters are long, freezing, snowy, windy, and mostly cloudy. Over the course of the year, the temperature typically varies from 22°F to 62°F and is rarely below 6°F or above 70°F.

The warm season lasts for 3.5 months, from May 31 to September 14, with an average daily high temperature above 56°F. The hottest month of the year in Seward is July, with an average high of 61°F and a low of 50°F.

The cold season lasts for 4.2 months, from November 7 to March 15, with an average daily high temperature below 37°F. The coldest month of the year in Seward is January, with an average low of 23°F and a high of 32°F.

• Complete Packing List: If you are short on time, check my Ultimate Packing List for Alaska with a FREE printable packing list
• Portable water bottle:  Remember to bring and drink a lot of water and if you need to refill, a  LifeStraw Filtered Water Bottle  is the best option. You will find stations to refill your water along the hiking trails
• Day-Backpack:  I love my  day backpack ; it is very handy for hiking.
• Excellent and warm boots:  It doesn’t matter what time of the year you visit Anchorage, make sure to wear comfortable and warm boots. I love my So rel boots and I highly recommend investing in a pair.
• Warm Layers:  Early morning or late night can get cold so it is important to bring layers, a  lightweight puffy jacket   is a must, and I love these warm leggings too!
• Packing for winter:  During winter make sure to have a good quality  hiking jacket   and pack a  warm pair of pants  for your hike.
• Wear a hat and sunglasses:  It is always important to protect yourself against the sun. Bring a hat with a  good face cover like this  one and don’t forget to pack a pair of polarized sunglasses
• Bring your Camera:  You will see some incredible views during your hiking, so don’t forget your camera, or check out some  great value options here

Read More: What to pack for Alaska + FREE printable packing list

Things to do in Anchorage, Alaska Conclusion

As you can see, there are plenty of exciting things to do in Anchorage Alaska – from enjoying the stunning views of the mountains, and going on a tour to observe the wildlife and glaciers, to exploring nature and the views of Anchorage.

You won’t be bored here, and you will definitely find amazing things to do in Anchorage for any taste or adventure level. I recommend spending at least 2 days and 1 night in Anchorage to explore and take advantage of one of the best places in Alaska.

If you are planning a trip to Alaska, here are some very helpful articles for you:

• Ultimate Alaska Itinerary: A Perfect Road Trip in Alaska

Where to Stay in Alaska: 7 Top Towns + Hotel Guide

• What Alaska is Known for? 20 Fascinating facts about Alaska
• 22 Alaska Bucket List Experience
• What to Pack or Alaska + FREE printable packing list
• Things to do in Valdez, AK
• Things to do in Fairbanks, AK
• Things to do in Seward, AK
• Things to do in Talkeetna, AK
• Harding Icefield Trail in Alaska: The Complete Hiking Guide
• The Ultimate Guide to the Exit Glacier Hike

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What is Alaska Known For? 20 Things Alaska is Famous For

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13 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Anchorage, Alaska

Written by Chloë Ernst and Brad Lane Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Surrounded by the Chugach Mountains in Southcentral Alaska, Anchorage is Alaska's largest city and commercial center (though much smaller Juneau is the state capital). A modern style pervades the city, rebuilt after a devastating 1964 earthquake and tsunami. The city appeals to urbanites and its approximately 290,000 residents with plenty of cultural attractions.

However, the real draw for tourists and residents of Anchorage is the city's easy access to wild Alaskan landscapes. The nearly half-million-acre Chugach State Park is at the city's backdoor. Also within easy reach of the city is Mount Alyeska Resort , which offers skiing throughout the year; the popular Portage Glacier (50 miles southeast); and the Kenai Peninsula . You can also do a road trip from Anchorage to Denali National Park or visit the fjord-riddled coast.

Anchorage is Alaska's most important traffic hub, welcoming many international airlines and home to the world's largest seaplane base. The Alaska Railroad also runs through Anchorage, connecting other scenic cultural hubs and tying together the region's rich history. Discover the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Anchorage.

See also: Where to Stay in Anchorage

1. Observe the Residents at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

2. take a bicycle ride on the tony knowles coastal trail, 3. explore the culture at the alaska native heritage center, 4. engage at the anchorage museum at rasmuson center, 5. dive into chugach state park, 6. hike the flattop mountain trail, 7. watch seaplanes land at the alaska aviation museum, 8. hop aboard the alaska railroad, 9. ski girdwood, alaska, 10. alaska zoo, 11. seward, alaska, 12. kenai fjords national park, 13. gain some altitude with rust's flying service, where to stay in anchorage for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in anchorage, alaska.

This animal sanctuary adopts injured or orphaned wildlife from the Alaska area, sometimes providing them with a permanent place to stay. The Conservation Center is an hour southeast of Anchorage, and guests can visit the resident animals and their 200 acres of spacious habitat throughout the year. This access enables up-close views of bison, bears, moose, owls, elk, eagles, wolves, and a lynx.

This nonprofit organization strives to research these animals and educate the public about Alaska wildlife, and in accordance offers a variety of classes, programs, and tours . For anyone looking to add to their conservation efforts, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center has many volunteer opportunities available.

An easy way to explore the Wildlife Conservation Center is by booking a guided tour with round-trip transportation. Trips like the Wilderness, Wildlife, & Glacier Experience not only offer a ride to the animal sanctuary, they make several scenic stops along the way. And the professional narration of the trip offers an easy way to learn about the beauty at each site.

Address: Mile 79 Seward Highway, Portage, Alaska

The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail trims 11 miles of the Anchorage shoreline, heading southwest from downtown. The coastal walking and biking trail starts near the city's oldest home, Oscar Anderson House , and continues to the somber setting of Earthquake Park , where information panels describe how the 1964 earthquake swallowed stretches of shoreline.

Wildlife sightings often include moose and beluga whales along the rest of this popular route. The path also lends a preview to some of the city's most defining natural landscapes, including Denali, the Chugach Mountains, and the downtown skyline. The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail ends at the large Kincaid Park, with especially panoramic mountain views.

One of the most popular ways to traverse the length of the trail is via bicycle. For those visiting without their own two wheels, local gear shops, like Downtown Bicycle Rental , offer affordable daytime rentals.

The Alaska Native Heritage Center , northeast of the city center, explores the cultures of 11 Alaskan Indigenous groups. It's a family-friendly place to gain a better understanding of Alaska's history and culture before exploring the rest of the city. At the Heritage Center, six traditional dwellings surround the small Lake Tiulana, with each demonstration village displaying artifacts and offering various experiences.

Visitors can take in cultural dances, games, and artist demonstrations, with knowledgeable guides providing details and answering questions. The center also features local and regional artworks in a Hall of Cultures and a Theater that plays educational film series throughout the day.

Transportation is available to the center from the Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center .

To expand on this introduction to Anchorage, a guided Anchorage City Tour provides further insights into the history and culture that define Anchorage. This two-hour tour stops at prominent city landmarks and natural spaces, including the Alaska Native Heritage Center. It offers a more complete story of Anchorage that's otherwise not easy to discover on your own.

Address: 8800 Heritage Center Drive, Anchorage, Alaska

A modern, glass-fronted building houses the expansive Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center . The facility contains a broad range of art and historic items related to Alaska and the Arctic. The museum also features numerous traveling exhibits from around the world each year.

Located on the first floor, the Spark!Lab has hands-on science and technology exhibits popular for young researchers. Throughout the rest of the four-story facility, permanent exhibits include Art of the North and a Smithsonian Arctic Studies Center . This is a great place to visit for families or anyone looking to entertain children for a day.

A planetarium at the facility offers other visual forms of entertainment. Regular showings at the Thomas Planetarium include educational films focusing on the environment, the cosmos, and human wellness. And just sitting in the large park in front of the museum is a lovely way to enjoy Alaska's long summer days.

Address: 625 C Street, Anchorage, Alaska

Chugach State Park is one of the four largest state parks in the United States, covering a staggering 700-plus square miles. This rugged terrain of mountains, rivers, lakes, and glaciers is home to wolves, moose, bears, beavers, lynxes, and other wildlife. It's also a popular area for hiking, skiing, and camping within the vicinity of Anchorage.

The park borders the city to the east and meets the saltwater at various points along the Seward Highway, traveling along the shores of Turnagain Arm . Several trailheads lead right from the city streets into this wild environment. The Glen Alps Trailhead offers an easy introduction to Chugach right from the city limits.

The lands adjoin Chugach National Forest , where attractions like the Portage Glacier (in retreat) draw in tourists and cruise-ship visitors traveling between Anchorage and Seward or Whittier.

Address: 18620 Seward Hwy, Anchorage, Alaska

Flattop Mountain offers a popular hiking route on the southeast side of the commercial center. It's often referred to as the most commonly climbed mountain in Alaska thanks to this proximity, as well as the relatively short 1.7-mile hike to the top. However, the route gains a hearty 1,300 feet along the way, with some scrambling near the peak, making it no easy walk in the park.

Flattop Mountain is still a popular place to visit for those not interested in hiking to the top. A short and flat trail leads from the parking area to a fantastic view of Anchorage with an easy walk. Other trail options throughout the area enable all types of hikes at the fringe of Chugach National Park.

Restored vintage aircraft, photographs, and other related memorabilia are displayed at the Alaska Aviation Museum , honoring the pioneers of Alaska aviation. Best of all, the museum is on the shores of Lake Hood , near both the world's busiest seaplane base and the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport .

The aircraft on display are in various states of repair, with some being no more than a frame. Patrons can observe some of these vintage aircraft coming back to life in the Restoration Hanger. Watching take-offs and landings on nearby Lake Hood from a retired control tower , complete with a live radio feed, is also a fun part of any visit.

The museum is open seven days a week, with a small price of admission for adults and children. Members of the museum receive free admission.

Address: 4721 Aircraft Drive, Anchorage, Alaska

Anchorage began in the early 20th century as a tent town to support the construction of the Alaska Railroad. After President Warren G. Harding drove the Golden Spike into the ground in 1923, the railroad endured a legacy tied to World War II, colossal earthquakes, and a tumultuous economy.

Today, the Alaska Railroad is owned by the state and offers dozens of passenger services and event trains while accommodating more than half a million travelers each year. What has remained constant in the near-century of operation is the elevated terrain seen alongside the tracks.

The tracks stretch for 470 miles from Seward to Fairbanks, with a prominent stop in Anchorage along the way. It connects several communities and otherwise hard-to-reach areas, spanning from the Southcentral coast into Inland Alaska. Train stops include Denali National Park & Preserve , Girdwood, and accessible-only-by-train backcountry areas .

The Alaska Railroad operates year-round, with more frequent service between mid-May and mid-September. Several packages are available to make the most out of a trip, including lodging and guided adventure services.

Anchorage Depot Address: 411 West 1st Avenue, Anchorage, Alaska

Girdwood, less than an hour's drive south of Anchorage, was a prosperous gold mining and railroad town until the 1930s. It now finds its wealth in the mountains — specifically Alyeska Resort . After mine closures left the community a virtual ghost town and then the devastating blow of the 1964 earthquake, Girdwood relocated inland.

Today, the town is primarily a recreation area and is known as one of the premier Alaska ski resorts . Thousands of locals and tourists descend upon the slopes to "Ski Girdwood" every year. The Alyeska Resort encompasses over 1,700 acres, commonly described as "Steep and Deep."

It's not all snow sports that draw a crowd to Girdwood. The summer brings an equal amount of mountain recreation, including a wide variety of hiking and mountain biking trails. The Alyeska Aerial Tram , which brings skiers up the slope during the winter, also offers a scenic way to ascend the mountain in the summer.

As well as the ample snow sports and many things to do in the summer, the eclectic town provides fun places to eat, shop, and get a taste of the community.

The Alaska Zoo is a 25-acre facility with a variety of native wildlife species , including brown bears, wolves, musk oxen, Dall sheep, and reindeer. This Anchorage tourist attraction also has a small collection of exotic animals, including Amur Tigers and Bactrian Camels.

The zoo offers a wide range of events and special encounters, including Zoo Lights and opportunities to help feed the wolves. Visitors can combine a trip to the facility, which is located southeast of the town center while driving the Seward Highway .

Address: 4731 O'Malley Road, Anchorage, Alaska

Seward is the last stop on the Seward Highway, located south of Anchorage at the northeast end of Resurrection Bay . It's also the terminus of the Alaska Railroad . The town is a major access point to Kenai Fjords National Park and a great base to explore the surrounding area.

Visitors charter boats or planes and arrange fishing, hunting, or sightseeing trips from town. But Seward's chief tourist attraction is the Alaska SeaLife Center , home to Steller sea lions, harbor seals, and seabirds. At the center, look for species particular to the Gulf of Alaska, like the gangly king crab and impressive Giant Pacific octopus.

Visitors from Anchorage reach Seward with an approximately three-hour drive or a roughly four-hour train ride. This distance encourages an overnight visit, and several hotels line the northern tip of Resurrection Bay.

Kenai Fjords National Park , on the southern tip of the Kenai Peninsula, is known for its glaciers, coastal mountains, and fantastic landscapes centering on the 700-square-mile Harding Icefield . The park covers more than 900 square miles total, but the only area accessible by road is Exit Glacier . Here, visitors can walk on trails near the glacier, or take a guided tour to learn about the ice-shaped landscape.

The 8.2-mile round trip on the Harding Ice Field is a popular hiking trail leading from Exit Glacier, though the route is strenuous with over 3,000 feet of elevation gain. The national park is also explored by air or boat, either on a tour or independently. Hiring outfitters and guides or joining ranger-led programs is often the best way to see and learn about this park.

Exit Glacier is most easily accessible from Seward off Highway 9, which is home to other tourist attractions and visitor resources. Other tourist-friendly towns on the Kenai Peninsula include Homer and Kenai, accessible from Highway 1.

Rust's Flying Service has been in business since 1963, offering sightseeing seaplane tours to Denali National Park , Lake Clark National Park & Preserve, and over various surrounding glaciers. It has become a bit of an institution in this part of the country. The planes also take visitors to remote Alaska fishing lodges or on wildlife-viewing treks to see bears.

For anyone harboring the romantic idea of flying around Alaska in a bush plane, this will surely fulfill that dream. The planes include Cessnas, Beavers, and Turbine Otter seaplanes on floats, and the experience is as much about the flight as the sightseeing. Flights depart from Lake Hood, the world's largest seaplane base, with the Alaska Aviation Heritage Museum next door.

As an alternative high-flying adventure, a Helicopter Tour and Glacier Landing from Anchorage offers a similar perspective on the rugged Alaskan landscape. This 60-minute helicopter tour includes a scenic flight from Anchorage over glaciers and offers a good chance of seeing wildlife.

Address: 4525 Enstrom Circle, Anchorage, Alaska

The best place to stay in Anchorage is right downtown, near restaurants, the shops of 4th Street, and a few of the area's top attractions, including the Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center and the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. Below are some highly rated hotels in good locations:

Luxury Hotels :

• The Hotel Captain Cook is Anchorage's premier luxury hotel. Just a few steps from the Coastal Trail, it features well-appointed rooms and some with scenic city views.
• The large Anchorage Marriott Downtown is in the heart of the action and convenient to the cruise terminal and 4th Street.
• Close to a number of good restaurants, the Hilton has recently upgraded rooms, some with mountain views, and a pool.
• In the same category and just a short walk from the Anchorage Museum, the Sheraton Anchorage Hotel offers contemporary-styled rooms with good views.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• The Embassy Suites by Hilton is an all-suite hotel with a complimentary breakfast and free shuttle service to the airport and around the downtown area.
• For some historical charm, try the boutique Historic Anchorage Hotel . Built in 1916, this property has only 26 rooms and has a wonderful central location in the city center.

Budget Hotels:

• The Anchorage Grand Hotel is a good budget option, only a few short blocks from the downtown core.
• The Voyager Inn has large, bright rooms in a quiet location near downtown and a variety of good restaurants.
• The centrally located Clarion Suites Downtown offers decent rooms, a pool, and a complimentary breakfast.

More on Alaska

75+ Unique Things to do in Anchorage Recommended by a Local

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Last updated on May 16th, 2023 at 03:12 pm

Anchorage, Alaska, was my hometown for 26 years. Well, I actually grew up in a small “suburb” 13 miles away called Eagle River, but I know this city like the back of my hand. Alaska’s largest city has a charming downtown full of local art galleries, restaurants serving fresh local food, fascinating history, and access to some of the world’s best nature. Resting at the foot of mountains and snuggled against an inlet, Anchorage is the perfect city to connect with nature and immerse yourself in a local culture not found in many other places. Unfortunately, most people just pass through while on a quick cruise stop over and aren’t able to take advantage of all the incredible things to do in Anchorage – or they all end up at the same tourist traps. As a former Alaskan tour guide, my guests always loved the local insider tips I gave them to make their time in Anchorage memorable, and I can’t wait to pass them along to you as well.

Considering the land area, Anchorage is one of the largest cities in the U.S., so these suggestions cover everything from Girdwood to downtown Anchorage to Knik River.  Without further ado, here are my top 75 things to do in Alaska for every season and every type of traveler recommended by a born and raised local.

Land Acknowledgment: Anchorage is in Denaʼina Ełnena – or Dena’ina Athabascan country. The Athabascan People are Indigenous to interior Alaska. Learn more about the Dena’ina and Athabascan People to add important context to your Anchorage exploration.

Top 12 Things to Do in Anchorage Not to Miss

If you have only a limited time in Anchorage, these are my top 12 recommendations to ensure you get a taste of my home city.

1. Learn About Anchorage from Indigenous Alaskans

One of the most important things to remember when visiting Anchorage is that you are on Indigenous land. Please support a Native-owned business, purchase only authentic Native art (it will say), or learn about the city from its original inhabitants’ perspective when you can.

View this post on Instagram In 1999, these athletes and dancers performed for our grand opening! Thank you Bret Hanson for this wonderful picture. #20thanniversary A post shared by Alaska Native Heritage Center (@akheritagecenter) on Apr 9, 2019 at 12:05pm PDT

If you want to take a walking tour of Anchorage, book with AK Finest . You will be guided by a Native who sits on a Tribal Council, learning about Native culture and history and how it relates to the Anchorage area – all while seeing the city’s highlights. You’ll even be invited to see one of Alaska’s finest Native art collections at the Alaska Native Hospital.

And if you are looking for a tour operator to help you plan an authentic Alaskan experience, book with a Native-owned Downtown Tour Group. Don’t miss Russ’ sunrise or sunset Anchorage Wildlife Tour!

I’ve got loads more recommendations for learning about Native culture in the culture section – so don’t miss those ideas for more options.

2. Hike Flat Top for Amazing Views (Or just enjoy the accessible viewpoint)

Flat Top is one of the most famous hikes in Anchorage, maybe even Alaska, but it’s renowned for a reason. Flat Top offers the best bird’s eye view of Anchorage. From the peak, you can spot numerous mountain ranges, the sparkling inlet, the Anchorage skyline, and even my hometown of Eagle River! If you are lucky, you can see Denali on a clear day. If you are an avid hiker, you can head up the trail to the peak for a view that stretches as far as the eye can see.

Flat Top is hard to access, but the drive is worth it. If you have a rental car, drive to the Glen Alps Trailhead and be prepared to pay $5 in cash. If not, you can take the Flat Top Shuttle that will get you from downtown Anchorage and back. If you plan on hiking to the top, save a few hours to give yourself time to hike and take in the view. There is some rock scrambling toward the very top, and it might not be the best option for non-hikers.

If you prefer not to hike: from the parking lot, you can walk an accessible flat boardwalk while still getting incredible views.

If this is your second time visiting Anchorage and you’ve “been there, done that,” then check out O’Malley Peak, The Powerline Trail, or Williwaw Lakes, some of my favorite hikes with trailheads in the same location.

3. Ride or Walk the Coastal Trail

The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is a shared bike and walking trail that runs from the heart of downtown and winds along the coast. There are chances to see wildlife, including moose and sea birds. As you progress along the path, the view looking back on Anchorage gets better and better. Rent some bikes from Pablo’s Bike Store near Elderberry Park at the start of the trail, or go it alone on your own two feet. If you’re walking, I suggest going from Elderberry Park to West Chester Lagoon. If you’re on a bike, then I recommend going all the way to Kincaid Park.

If you prefer to do things in a group or with a local expert, book a group bike tour of the Coastal Trail with all the equipment you’ll need, included. This tour comes with a local guide, so you’ll learn about the history of the earthquake and be in the know about all our mountains and nature.

If you’re the type that likes to ride and then cool off with a beer, then this all-day bike and beer tour is for you. The tour starts the day with a bike ride along the coastal trail and ends with a behind-the-scenes tour of some of Anchorage’s breweries with 12 samples. Honestly, beer and scenic outdoor adventures make my top list of best things to do in Anchorage, so this is like a dream combination!

4. Drink Craft Beer

Did someone say beer? If you know me, you know by now that even though I live in Munich, the thing that I miss the most about Alaska is the craft beer . Did you know we have over 50 breweries, including one of the world’s northernmost breweries? Pretty cool, huh? You’ll find dozens of those breweries in our largest city, Anchorage. Stay downtown and check out 49th State Brewing to avoid drinking and driving. If you have a designated driver or want to invest in Lyft, head to the Industrial District, visiting the tap rooms of Midnight Sun , King Street , and Double Shovel . Broken Tooth Brewing, found at Moose’s Tooth, is also tasty – you can buy a growler to keep on hand in your hotel room.

If your whole group wants to sit back and relax and not pay for Uber or be DD, then book yourself a guided tour. The Anchorage Craft Brewery Tour includes 12 samples, three brewery stops, including Anchorage’s oldest brewery, and guided commentary on the history of Anchorage’s thriving beer culture.

Or, for more information on the general craft brewery scene in Alaska, check out my 3-page feature in Seabourn Club Herald , pp 46-48.

5. Ride the Alaska Railroad

The Alaska Railroad is hands down one of my favorite things to do in the Anchorage area. It is a great way to get out of Anchorage for the day and ride one of the most scenic railways in the U.S. – and maybe even the world, if I am honest. My suggested route is to take the train from Anchorage to Girdwood and spend the day exploring my favorite town in the extended Anchorage area. You can take the Girdwood Tram , drink craft beer, go hiking, or go to the Nordic Spa at the Alyeska Hotel before returning to Anchorage the same day. I highly recommend the Glacier Discovery whistle-stop train for a customizable day trip to see wildlife and glaciers and explore the off-the-beaten paths.

You can also book several train combination tours with guided excursions, including this Glacier and Rail Cruise combo pack.

6. Grab the Museum Pass

Anchorage has a few top-notch museums, with two, in particular, rising to the top, the Anchorage Museum and the Alaska Native Heritage Center. Take advantage of seeing both with the Alaska Culture Pass , which is only $32 and includes a shuttle service that will take you between these two museums.

The Anchorage Museum takes you back in time through Alaska’s Indigenous, Russian, and U.S. history. You’ll find exhibits featuring culture, local art, geology, natural history, and even rotating Smithsonian exhibits.

The Alaska Native Heritage Center offers a responsible and immersive way to learn about Alaska’s different indigenous tribes and their culture through history, dance, theater, art, and architecture.

You don’t need to use the pass on the same day, so it is the perfect thing to have in your back pocket as you explore Anchorage.

7. Try the Local Foods

One of the best things about Alaskans is that we catch or sustainably hunt most of our food, and many rely on subsistence hunting and gathering to survive our long winters. So, one of the best ways to experience Anchorage like a local is to eat some of our fresh seafood or try some of the different local meats served in Alaska.

Some of our best seafood can be found downtown at the famous Simon and Seaforts or Orso . If you want to skip the crowds, go where locals eat, and check out Kincaid Grill , which features fresh Alaskan oysters, cod, halibut, salmon, and scallops.   Haute Quarter Grill also has King Crab legs and other seafood delights.

If you want to try some smoked Salmon or reindeer sausage, I suggest heading to Alaska’s Sausage and Seafood or 10th and M Seafood . You can even have some of these delicacies shipped to your friends and family – or your own house.

If you’re feeling adventurous, head to 49th State Brewery and Restaurant on the 4th and order their local Alaskan yak burger.

For my fellow vegetarians or visitors trying to reduce their meat consumption for ethical and environmental reasons – go you! Be warned that eating in Alaska can be frustrating, but rewarding when you find spots catering to vegetarian diets. My favorite veg-friendly spots are Ginger for Asian Alaskan Fusion, El Green Go’s Mexican food truck, and Middleway Cafe.

8. See Bears with Rust’s Flightseeing

Flightseeing is one of the best things you can do in Anchorage. It might be expensive, but it is an excellent value for everything you get. During your stay in Alaska, you’ll have lots of opportunities to go on a flightseeing tour, which can be overwhelming. If you want my local opinion, then book with Rust’s Flying Service out of Anchorage to see bears in Lake Clark National Park or Katmai National Park . Other tours offer incredible scenic views of Denali, but with a bear viewing tour with Rust’s, you get a scenic tour combined with bear viewing. So, if you’re saving up for a flightseeing tour in Alaska and want an intimate look into the life of bears, this is the option for you.

Rust’s also offers plenty of scenic tours or longer trips to stay in cabins. I’ve personally used them, and they are a local favorite in the Anchorage area.

9. Enjoy the Midnight Sun

The great thing about visiting Alaska in the Summer is our 20+ hours of daylight. That means you can start a hike at 10 pm or go out for a rooftop drink at 9 pm. You can pack many things into your schedule, so book all the tours, eat all the things, and explore downtown Anchorage until the sun never goes down. I took this photo at 1 am on the summer solstice from Flat Top Mountain.

10. See the Northern Lights

If you are visiting in the winter and seeing the Northern Lights is on your bucket list, then make sure you book a Northern Light Tour. If you book your tour with an expert like Alaska Photo Treks , they will give you some photography tips and check the forecast. You’ll even stop in my hometown of Eagle River to try and see the lights! Booking with an expert is hands down the best way to ensure you have a memorable experience and the best chance to see the aurora.

Greatland Adventures , a local Alaskan company, also offers Nothern Lights Tours, basic photography tips, and Aurora forecasting to determine the best location for viewing. You can book a private or small group tour with them.

Remember, seeing the Northern Lights is never guaranteed, so it is helpful to have a backup plan and not get your hopes up too much.

11. Shop and Support Local Businesses

Alaska doesn’t have many chain restaurants or stores around. We pride ourselves on the creative genius of locals for everything from the hottest fashion trends to beauty products, artisanal food, and more. One of the best things you can do in Anchorage is purchase a truly one-of-a-kind souvenir that is Alaskan-made. Head to any of our markets, such as the Saturday market – now located in Dimond :( and shop the stalls for something unique. Many shops downtown, such as Cabin Fever, Sevigne Studio , and more, have locally made in Alaska sections with author bios, so you know exactly who you’re supporting.

READ MORE : Discover my comprehensive guide to the best art, fashion, cafes, and tour companies owned and operated by local Alaskan women to support real Alaskan entrepreneurs.

 12. Stop and Smell the Flowers

Downtown Anchorage is full of historic charm and blooming flowers in the summer. If you stick to the area from Ship Creek to the Delaney Park Strip, particularly 4-6th Ave., you’ll be rewarded with a quirky historic aesthetic and hanging flower baskets and gardens. The baskets downtown were inspired by our state flag, with “stars of blue on a field of gold.” The town square has a lovely flower garden worth stopping by to see. Even as far as 15th Ave, flower baskets hang from giant fishing poles.

Check out the town square for ice skating and twinkle lights if you are around in winter. Our winters are so dark, and Anchorage explodes with twinkle lights to entertain you while walking downtown.

Things to do in Anchorage for Foodies

When people think of Anchorage, they think of seafood. As a tour guide, I often picked up guests who came off the cruise ship stuffed to the brim with crab and salmon and wanted something different. So, if that is you, and you’re stuffed with crab and salmon, check out these alternative eats.

13. Eat Street Food

Anchorage has a thriving street food and food truck scene. In the summer, you’ll find plenty of food carts on 4th Avenue serving reindeer hot dogs, but that just scratches the surface. Though, if you are looking for dogs, Tia’s Gourmet Sausages and Tiki Pete’s are the best. If you’re in town in the Summer on Saturday, head to the Anchorage Saturday Market for salmon quesadillas and dozens of vendors. If you are around on Thursday, don’t miss Anchorage’s Food Truck Carnival in Spenard for the best street eats in the city. My friend Darrin runs this Carnival in the summer months, so be sure to say hello if you see someone that looks like they are in charge! There are veg-friendly options as well.

While sampling beer at Anchorage’s fantastic craft breweries, head outside for a snack. Most of our breweries have a tasty food cart outside, ready to serve up something local when you get the beer munchies.

14. Enjoy Fine Dining

Anchorage has some top-notch restaurants where you can get amazing food without a lot of fuss. Anchoragites are known for dressing casually while we enjoy fine dining. Some of the best local seafood and wine pairings is at Marx Brothers – an intimate, quality establishment. If you want touristy but quality dining, Orso right downtown on 5th Ave is worth it; for a local favorite, hit up Haute Quarter Grill. Ginger has the best Asian fusion with a fantastic cocktail menu if you want a fusion twist on Alaskan favorites. My sister works at Ginger, so make sure you ask to sit in Cat’s section and tell her hello from her annoying little sister.

In the town of Girdwood, you must try Double Musky, the best restaurant in the state. They blend NOLA food with Alaskan cuisine. It’s insanely popular, though, so arrive early and expect a wait.

Most fine dining establishments will accommodate vegetarians, but I suggest calling ahead or asking your server. I find it frustrating most vegetarian options aren’t listed on fine dining menus, but call and ask how they can accommodate you before making reservations.

15. Grab Quality Casual Eats

To avoid the over-hyped touristy traps like Glacier Brewhouse, delve deeper into Anchorage’s local culinary scene with quality casual dining. Spenard Roadhouse is a local favorite serving Alaskan comfort food. Bear’s Tooth is a local fav with scratch margaritas and, my sister’s top recommendation – their shrimp and grits. F Street has excellent pub food, like their crab sandwich in a cozy downtown pub! Snow City Cafe is a popular and tasty spot for brunch. Rustic Goat has a lovely patio with modern food in a hipster setting. For an iconic restaurant in the community since the 1950s, grilling up some of the best burgers, then head to my dad’s favorite Lucky Wishbone .

16. Eat Fusion Food

I mentioned that Anchorage is a diverse city with some fantastic fusion cuisines. For Vietnamese food, eat at Pho Lena , for awesome Mexican tacos, stop by Serano’s Grill, and don’t miss Hula Hands for Hawai’ian.

17. Eat Baked Alaska and Other Sweets

Alaskans eat more ice cream per capita than any other state. I just went to get an ice cream milkshake with my dad in -30 degree weather – no joke. Whatever makes people in cold climates crave ice cream, Alaskans do dessert right. Check out Wild Scoops downtown for the most popular ice cream in Anchorage. Be warned that the line is around the block in the summer. I think their locally sourced ingredients and unique mixes are worth the wait, but others disagree. If you have access to a car, then head to WooHoo!, where locals like to escape the crowds.

Don’t miss Baked Alaska featured on the menu at Ginger. Sweet Chalet has the best artisanal chocolate with hand-painted aurora-inspired chocolates. Sweet Caribou makes the best macarons. My favorite way to eat them is blended in Wild Scoops ice cream. To find all the best local sweets and culinary delights, head to Alaska Wild Berry Products to bring souvenirs home and see the world’s largest chocolate fountain. If you are looking for a tasty bakery, your local favorite, Fire Island, is a must.

18. Take a Food Tour

To sample all the best Anchorage offers, don’t miss this foodie tour of Anchorage. Sourdough Dan is a character and will take you to all his favorite spots with local insider knowledge. All of his stops support locally owned and operated small businesses. During this unique walking tour of Anchorage, you’ll learn about hidden gems and little-known facts while eating your heart out!

Fellow vegetarians/vegans, beware: This tour is not veg-friendly :(

19. Forage For Your Food

If there is one skill many Alaskans share, it is foraging for our food. My mom lived off the grid in a remote cabin and spent her days harvesting and roasting fiddlehead ferns. As kids, we used to fill the freezer with seasonal blueberries – sharing the bountiful harvest with the roaming brown bears fattening before winter. There are plenty of places great for foraging around Anchorage, like Arctic Valley, but unless you know exactly what you are doing and what food is poisonous, you should book a foraging trip with a local expert. The best part is you learn a new skill and prepare your harvest to enjoy on the spot!

20. Sip Coffee in Anchorage

Alaska has more coffee shops than any other state per capita. That’s right – take that Starbucks-filled Washington! Kaladi Brother is Alaska’s most famous local coffee roaster with quality coffee and shops all over the state, including a cozy downtown spot. Steam Dot downtown is a newer addition, but they are easily among the best. Order a flat white and a Brown Bag sandwich for a midday pick-me-up. Writer’s Cafe is my favorite coffee shop with the best employees; ask for Dave, and tell him Susanna says hello. This space is cozy and optimized for reading and working. They have special nights featuring live music and poetry slams.

One thing unique to Alaska’s coffee scene is our drive-through coffee huts. You can’t miss them as they are on every corner – so drive up to one and check them out. If you happen to see Perk Up, they are a local favorite.

Things to do for the Party Monsters

21. drink cocktails inspired by alaska.

Anchorage has a fun little cocktail scene hidden among the dive bars. Don’t miss The Speakeasy at Williwaw Social for Anchorage’s coolest bar. Both Ginger and Tequila 61 have creative cocktail menus to shake things up.

The locals tend to drink spirits as quickly as they are produced, but keep an eye on the local menus for cocktails made with local liquor, or head to the Anchorage Distillery for a tour or buy spirits from Goldrush liquor for some hotel cocktails.

22. Visit a World Famous Bar

Chilkoot Charlies is weird, to say the least. This complex of microbars has been featured on MTV, hosted world-renowned DJs like Paul Oakenfold, and is a local favorite, especially for those celebrating their 21st birthday. Inside is an ice bar, a swing bar, the main room, a dance floor, and the birdhouse with underwear stapled to the walls. If you want to go people-watching or drink in a weird environment only found in Alaska, then Koots is your spot.

23. Dance to Live Music

Anchorage has a tight-knit community of music lovers. My friend Rain, an Alaskan Native DJ, sometimes plays around Anchorage. If you miss her playing, then check out her music! The Avenue Bar, Williwaw Social, Humpy’s, Bernie’s Bungalow, and The Raven Bar  also host rotating DJs and live bands.

24. Attend a Drag Show

If you’re part of or an ally of the LBGTQ+ community, head down to Mad Myrna’s for one of the best drag shows in the country! The bartenders are great, and it is always a welcoming atmosphere. Myrna’s has three areas, the main bar room with games, a room for the drag shows and other events, and a dance floor with local DJs playing dance and pop music.

Things to do for View Seekers

Other than Flat Top, which I already mentioned, there are plenty of things to do to get some fantastic views of Anchorage and the nature surrounding our beautiful city.

25. Get the Best Skyline View

For the best views of Anchorage, head to the ‘ Downtown Anchorage Viewpoint’ and ‘ Pt. Woronzoff’ at the end of Northern Lights Blvd. Along these viewpoints, you’ll see postcard-perfect images of the Anchorage skyline, the inlet, the Chugach Mountains, Denali, and Mt. Susitna.

Local Tip: At Pt. Woronzoff you can see airplanes taking off and landing as they fly right over your head and out into the inlet, making it a wonderful spot for photographs and airplane lovers.

26. Get Drinks with a View

If you prefer to take your view with a drink in hand, head to the Crow’s Nest at the top of the Captain Cook Hotel for cocktails overlooking the entire downtown region. If you enjoy beer, then head to the deck of 49th State Brewery for views overlooking the inlet.

27. Take a Scenic Road Trip and Alyeska Tram!

Just outside of Anchorage is the sleepy town of Girdwood. If you have a rental car, then you should make this drive. The drive to Girdwood from Anchorage is full of scenic pullouts along the Turnagain Arm, offering views of mountains, waterfalls, wildlife, and a rugged coastline. Once in Girdwood, ride the Tram and walk around for views of several glaciers and the inlet below.

If you haven’t rented a car, the best way to ride the tram and see Turnagain Arm is by booking a shuttle from Anchorage to Girdwood . Another option is to book with the same shuttle service to visit Turnagain Arm, stopping at the Wildlife Conservation Center and the Alyeska Tram . Again, this is not a guided tour and only includes transportation to and from these places – which are difficult to get to without a car. This Native-owned shuttle service is a great way to save money on gas or renting a car.

If you prefer a more pampered and guided experience, there are some great options for guided tours through the Turnagain Arm. PicTours will take you into the Chugach National Forest and the Conservation Center for an intimate look at one of Alaska’s iconic forest views. You’ll get some photo tips as a bonus. If you prefer to cruise Portage Glacier for epic views of the glacier at the end of Turnagain Arm, then 907 Tours has you covered .

28. Take A Scenic Flight

Getting a bird’s eye view of a glacier is truly magical. Often you need an expert mountain or hiking skills to see amazing glacier views. A helicopter tour is the best way to see the sprawling ice fields near Anchorage. The short and sweet version offers 30 minutes scenic flight with a 30-minute landing on Kink glacier .

A longer tour by the same company offers three remote landings to see the pristine-blue glaciers and their melt pools, including a fly over Lake George – something most locals rarely see!

Things to do for Adventure Seekers

If you are an adrenaline junky, Anchorage is a great city, with dozens – if not hundreds – of options to live life to the fullest. These adventure-filled things to do will get your heart pumping with unique Alaskan experiences.

29. Hike Arctic Valley

Arctic Valley is one of my favorite spots for views in Anchorage. Very few tourists visit, making it a bit of a local secret. Pack your tennis shoes for a medium hike with views overlooking the Anchorage Bowl. On a clear day, you can even spot Denali. This is also a great spot in winter for Northern Lights viewing and tubing. In the autumn, you can join the locals and go blueberry picking. My family used to go berry picking every year and freeze the berries for pancakes, jams, and all sorts of things to get us through the winter.

30. Go on A Glacier Hike

Get up close and personal with the best glacier hikes near Anchorage, created by yours truly. This list includes all my favorite hikes, from easy walking trails to more strenuous ones. But, all the options get you up close and personal with glaciers or stunning birds-eye views of all the glaciers near Anchorage. My post will help you plan and navigate these hikes as part of a self-guided or independent tour.

If you prefer to hike the glaciers with the experts, then 907 Tours will take you on a full-day strenuous hike of Matanuska Glacier in the summer . In the winter you can ride a snowmachine on the glacier!

31. Summit Peaks in Chugach State Park

Or you can book a guided hike with an expert to take you along one of Chugach State Park’s iconic ridgelines . Booking one of these hikes is a great way to learn about local flora and fauna while hiking some of the more intense routes with the safety of a guide.

32. Go ATVing

Knik is where my friends and I used to go in high school to drive 4-wheelers recklessly. Knik is known for its glacial mud flats, dunes, and epic off-roading. Sadly Kyle from my 11th-grade biology can’t throw you in the back of his pickup truck and take you out for an off-roading adventure, but 49th State Motor Tours can take you ATVing through Knik.

33. Experience 17 More Wild Adventures Near Anchorage

If you are looking for wild adventures, head to my post covering 17 outdoor activities in Anchorage. I talk about the places for hiking, biking, kayaking, rafting, fishing, camping, skiing, sledding, and more! This guide is perfect for those adrenaline junkies!

Things to do for Nature Lovers

To take in nature without the adrenaline rush, here is a list to get you outdoors in nature, but at a more leisurely pace.

34. Go Bird Watching

At the southernmost point of Anchorage city is one of my favorite places to get out into nature, Potters Marsh . This marsh is home to hundreds of migrating bird species in the spring and summer – and even some local Eagles looking for a meal. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot a moose. Walk the boardwalk to see salmon swimming upstream and birds up close. Bring your binoculars and zoom lens – especially if you are a birder.

Another great sport for birders is West Chester Lagoon . This quiet little cove in downtown Anchorage is full of bird species living their best life. The lagoon has a paved walking trail that connects with the Coastal Trail, so you can choose a short walk around the lagoon or a long walk along the ocean.

35. Visit An Ancient Glacier Valley

In my hometown is the Eagle River Nature Center, tucked away in the wilderness. After a scenic drive down a long winding mountain valley, you will arrive at the center. There is a small hut with park rangers, information about the local wildlife, and some bear safety tips. After checking that out, head outdoors to enjoy a leisurely walk around an old glacier valley, view old beaver dams, and walk along forested trails learning about glaciers. There are also plenty of hiking trails for more active groups, but a small section is accessible for baby strollers and those with limited mobility.

If you didn’t rent a car, you can visit the Nature Center with a naturalist guide . This tour stops at a little local secret waterfall – Barbara Falls.

If you want more nature, then check out this tour that heads just outside of the Anchorage area to the Palmer Hay Flats Wildlife Refuge area after the Nature Center. The Hay Flats are often overlooked but great for wildlife and nature enthusiasts.

36. Combine Science and Nature

The Campbell Creek Science Center offers to engage outdoor nature activities with guides. Take an early morning bird walk, engage in a fireside chat about nature, and learn about Alaska’s natural history and animals. Check their calendar for all their upcoming events during winter or summer.

37. Ethically See Animals and Learn About Conservation

The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is a large outdoor rescue and rehabilitation center for Alaskan wildlife. Take a leisurely walk outdoors and get up close and personal with bears, moose, lynx, and eagle that call the center home. You’ll also see plenty of temporary animals, such as elk, bison, or baby animals, being rehabilitated for release. This is a great center doing a lot of conservation in Alaska. They just added a viewing area where your chances of seeing the Cook Inlet Beluga Whale are high!

Get your admission ticket ahead of time, which is perfect to pair as part of a self-guided itinerary and drive to the center or complement the Turnagain Arm shuttle.

38. Visit Wolf Song of Alaska

In Eagle River, Wolf Song is a non-profit group working to raise awareness about Alaskan wolves and their conservation. They have a small museum and education center where you can learn about one of Alaska’s most magnificent apex predators and how vital they are to our state.

Please note: Wolf Song is undergoing renovations at this time and hopes to be open later in the year with a brand new center for you to explore. In the meantime, check out their website to learn more.

39. Visit Anchorage’s Botanical Garden

Anchorage’s Botanical Garden is a great way to see some of Alaska’s native plants. The center engages in research, conservation, and education. The 100-acre garden featuring the best of the boreal is a great little natural escape from the city. You can visit by yourself and explore the relaxing gardens. For more context, you can book admission with a guide to learn about local plants and animals – the area is known to be visited by bears and moose!

Things to do for Culture Connoisseur

Modern-day Alaskan culture is a blend of rich Indigenous culture along with colonial-era Russian and U.S. history. I suggest exploring a little of everything to get a taste of the city.

40. See the Blending of Native and Russian Culture

Make sure you visit Eklutna Village , a Native community, for a beautiful cultural experience. Eklutna is Anchorage’s oldest inhabited area, with Dena’ina Athabascan living here for 800 years. When Russians invaded in the 1840s and forced the Indigenous population to convert to Russian Orthodoxy, they built Anchorage’s oldest still-standing building, St. Nicholas’ Church. Along with the church, you can see colorful spirit houses, a Dena’ina tradition for housing the spirits of the dead. This blending of Orthodoxy and Indigenous culture is fascinating. The park is open in the summer with tours M-F during the day, and you can reach out if you are visiting off-season. Please book a tour with a Native guide and support this small village of 70 people.

Up for a walk? Since you drove all the way out to Eklutna, add on a small hike to Thunderbird Falls for rainforest-like nature and a powerful waterfall.

41. Wear Qiviut from a Native Co-Op

When in downtown Anchorage, stop by Oomingmak Co-Op to learn about the native tradition of knitting Qiviut. Qiviut is Musk-Ox wool 8x warmer than sheep wool and light as a feather. Meet some Indigenous women to learn about the project that employs hundreds of them with a sustainable income. Each region has a unique Indigenous design you can take home on a scarf, hat, or sweater. The price tag is a little high, but it is worth it for this truly unique gift from Alaska.

42. See Native Culture and Dance

View this post on Instagram Happy International Dance Day! #internationaldanceday A post shared by Alaska Native Heritage Center (@akheritagecenter) on Apr 29, 2019 at 1:17pm PDT

I mentioned stopping by the Alaska Native Heritage Center , but it is worth highlighting again for its amazing song and dance programs. The center is owned and operated by Indigenous Alaskans and run by my good friend Emily! The stage is set for Native dancing and storytelling, and you even have the opportunity to see Native Olympic athletes wow you with their athletic abilities centered around subsistence hunting. After a show, walk outside to see how the different tribes build homes and see Indigenous art.

The 4th Avenue Market Place downtown also hosts 3x weekly shows of traditional Native dance during the summer months.

43. Experience Fur Rondy

View this post on Instagram Alaska’s royalty taking off first during the running of the reindeer #rondyreindeer #alaska_daily #sharealaska #anchorage #runningwiththereindeer #alaskaroyalty #heritage #furrondy2019 #furrendezvous #reindeer #canonwhatelse #likeforlikes A post shared by Candice | Alaska (@l00kinthrulenz) on Mar 5, 2019 at 12:27pm PST

For a blending of all three cultures, you must visit in February for the Fur Rendezvous, known locally as the Fur Rondy. This cultural event is a huge part of Anchorage, and locals look forward to it yearly. For an entire week, Alaskans come from around the state for the running of the reindeer, outhouse races, snow sculpture contests, carnival rides, and more. It all leads up to the Iditarod official and ceremonial start, a beloved event for Alaskans around the state.

Things to Do for Art Aficionados

Alaskans are a creative bunch who build and create almost everything with their hands. Anchorage is an excellent place to see this handiwork and art on display.

44. Attend the Theater

The Alaska Center for Performing Arts is a top-notch concert and theater hall with three different halls. Book tickets in advance to see international musicals like Chicago and Lion King or local musicians and dance performances.

45. Buy Local Art to Take Home

Anchorage is home to dozens of art galleries teaming with local Alaskan artists. My favorites downtown are Sevigny Studio, Cabin Fever Gifts, and Stephan Fine Arts Gallery. For a selection of authentic Native Art,  you can take home, check out the gift shop in the Anchorage Museum .

46. Check out the Street Art

Anchorage has a lot of fun street art. You can’t miss the colorful murals across 4th and 5th Avenue. The alleyways between B & F are known locally as Ziggy’s Alley, as one artist covers the walls with images of Alaska.

If you want a beautiful Indigenous-painted mural, head to the Covenant House on 8th and Barrow for a beautifully created one by Apayuq .

The “Greetings from Alaska” mural is located on 5th and Fairbanks.

Anchorage’s newest piece replaced a mural upholding colonial values with a refreshing and colorful Indigenous art piece created by Crystal. Her epic mural is on G and 7th downtown.

47. Appreciate 1% for art

Anchorage spends 1% of its annual budget on art – which is quite a lot, so keep an eye out for city-funded art. One thing that stands out the most is the colorful bears around the town, each painted by a different artist. One can is in front of the Anchorage Visitor Center, and another is wearing fishing boots at the end of 6th and Lst. Some of this art is outside the Anchorage museum, including some funky animals and a controversial human made out of blocks, and the Nesbett Courthouses have some traditional totem poles out front.

48. Attend a First Friday

Every first Friday of the month, Anchorage’s art community comes together to feature local artists alongside live music, drink specials, and more! Dozens of bars, restaurants, and art galleries host events, so turn it into an art crawl. If you happen to be in Anchorage on a first Friday, find all the best events on Facebook .

49. Support Anchorage’s Local Theater Scene

Cyrano’s Theater Company is a small intimate theater located off 4th Ave. Cyrano’s is run by a group of local thespians. Stopping by to see a show is a great way to see classics and original theater pieces by Alaskan actors.

The Best Things to Do for History Buffs

I’ve already suggested a few ways to explore Native history and culture, so this primarily focuses on ways to learn about more recent history since colonization.

50. Stay at the Historic Anchorage Hotel

With roots dating back to 1936, the Historic Anchorage Hotel is an old-fashioned but charming option for downtown accommodation in Anchorage. The location of the building was once the central hub and one of the few places you could get a sit-down meal in Anchorage’s early days as a city. The hotel itself is said to be haunted, but that adds to the charm.

51. Learn About the Earthquake

My mom, a lifelong Alaskan who lived here before it was a state, survived the second-largest earthquake in human recorded history. She describes her experience of seeing telephone poles bending with the seismic waves – hitting the ground, and then snapping back up. She remembers images of her sister being picked up as she crawled down the hall and tossed around like a rag doll. People she knew were carried out to sea in a massive tsunami – never to be seen again. This powerful earthquake shaped Alaskan history and the layout of the city. Visit Earthquake Park to learn about this tragedy.

52. WWII History in Anchorage

Alaska played a sizable role in WWII, and there are a few options for those wanting to learn more about that history. Ft. Richardson National Cemetery is the final resting place for veterans, including Canadians and Russians. A cenotaph honors the cremated remains of 235 Japanese soldiers who died in the Aleutian campaign. You can easily access our military base if you are a military member. If you are a civilian, you can request recreational access .

Off base, the 11th Air Force Monument is located on DeBarr and Lake Otis on the south side of Merrill Field airstrip. The Alaska Veterans Museum also includes the military history of Alaska. The Aviation History Museum hangers have a lot of veteran volunteers who would love to share the military history of Alaska with you while exploring some of AK’s Aviation History.

53. See 4th Avenue Theater

The 4th Avenue Theater is an iconic piece of history in Alaska. The architecture is a classic 1940s with a bold neon sign. Unfortunately, it has been closed and sold to a foreign business with plans to destroy it. Anchorage locals are trying to save the theater, but our efforts may be in vain. The outside is worth seeing while you can.

UPDATE AUGUST 2022: The city has begun demolition of this iconic building. I had my prom here, and it held a special place in many locals’ lives. Many are saddened by its destruction after a long campaign to try and save and revitalize the building. If you visit summer 2023, this building will likely be gone. I’ll leave the photo up as a remembrance.

54. Take a Ghost Tour of Anchorage

Experience Anchorage’s history with the help of the living dead. A long-time Anchorage local will take you around the city with enthralling storytelling. The Ghost Tours of Anchorage run May-Sept. No reservation is necessary; show up and be ready for an alternative walking tour of Anchorage.

55. Visit the Oscar Anderson House

The Anderson House is a museum in one of Anchorage’s first modern-day houses, built in the early 1900s. Here you can learn about what life was like for early white colonizers. Anderson claimed to have been the 18th person to have stepped foot in Anchorage. We all know that is a bunch of bull shit because thousands of Athabascan People lived in the area, so don’t believe everything the museum tells you, as it is a one-sided look at recent white history in Alaska. Please visit with that in mind. However, it does provide some context for colonial history in Anchorage.

Geeky Things to Do in Anchorage

Anchorage has plenty of great options for my fellow science lovers and geeks.

56. Do the Planet Walk

Starting at the sun on 5th and G downtown, you can walk the entire coastal trail to Pluto at Kincaid in a to-scale planet walk. Learn about the planets as you explore one of Anchorage’s most scenic areas. At the sun, you can learn some Native stories about the sun, moon, and stars. A leisurely pace mimics the speed of light. The walk takes about 5.5 hours one way; a bike ride might take about 2 hours. You might want to make sure you have a ride back home, or call a Lyft.

57. Visit the Planetarium

If you prefer not to walk the entire solar system, head to the planetarium at our local university University of Alaska Anchorage. Get your anchorage planetarium tickets and see what is showing online. The Anchorage Museum also has a smaller planetarium – but I suggest you support my Alma Mater, UAA. Omega Smith, who does the UAA shows, is great!

58. Learn About Alaska with Hands-On Learning

The Discovery Center, attached to the Anchorage Museum, explores Alaska through tactile science, technology, and visual displays. Learn about Arctic and Alaskan ecosystems’ geology, aurora, volcanoes, earthquakes, and biodiversity. This is fun for the whole family and a great place to bring kids, but it is also great for adults.

59. See the World’s Largest Seaplane Base

Visit Lake Hood to watch float planes take off and land. These small seaplanes are what connect Alaska due to limited road access. Stop by the bar at the Millennium Hotel and sit on their deck right off Lake Hood to enjoy the planes with a drink in hand. While you’re here, don’t miss Alaska’s Aviation Museum !

60. Visit the Alaska Museum of Science and Nature

One of my favorite museums in Anchorage, the Museum of Science and Nature , is underrated and under-visited. It is a great place to learn about prehistoric times in Alaska, including dinosaurs and ice-age mammoths. If you’re into geology, there are fantastic rock and mineral displays. See a real beluga skeleton and learn about marine animals and bird species.

61. Get Your Cosplay on!

If you’re more of the Anime Cosplay loving geek, don’t miss Alaska’s annual Senshi-Con with panel discussions, live DJs, cosplay contests, and more. This is an annual event usually held in September.

62. Visit Alaska’s Best Escape Room

Alaska Escape Rooms is a family-owned escape room that relies on local talent to bring you a one-of-a-kind experience. Alaska Escape Rooms has hired local inventors, actors, artists, and writers to help create living stories for an immersive and interactive guest experience. If you love escape rooms, this experience is a great one to brag about, and if you haven’t tried an escape room, then this is a great place to start. My family and I did this escape room last winter and it is incredible – try and escape from a series of 4 rooms all while enjoying a fantastic ambiance.

Things to Do on a Budget in Anchorage

Anchorage can be a bit expensive, especially if you are planning the trip of a lifetime with high-priced adventures like flightseeing and glacier excursions. Many things I mentioned are budget-friendly or free, but here are a few more things to do in Anchorage without the sticker shock.

63. Watch People Fishing

One of the coolest things you can do in Anchorage is totally free! Head down to ship creek to see locals fishing right in the heart of the city! Standing on the bridge and looking down, you can spot the salmon swimming into the inlet.

64. Enjoy Music in the Park

During the summer months, every Wednesday, down local and visitors alike for free music downtown. Right next to the Anchorage Visitor Center on 4th Avenue is a sunny patch of grass for mid-day music sessions. If you’re visiting on a Thursday evening, head to the Town Square for the Live After Fiv e free music concert with food trucks and more.

For more free things to do downtown, stay updated with the Anchorage Downtown Partnership.

65. Ride the Anchorage Trolley

View this post on Instagram Come drive through the heart of the worlds busiest small engine aircraft airport with #anchoragetrolley.⠀ #dingding #Alaska #anchoragetrolleytours A post shared by Anchorage Trolley Tours (@anchoragetrolley) on May 16, 2019 at 4:52pm PDT

My friend Cyrus runs the Anchorage Trolley , and it is a fun way to get around Anchorage while learning about its history and geology. For only $20, you can get a narrated trolly experience around Anchorage as you see everything from Earthquake Park to historic downtown. They even offer a Deluxe hop on hop off tour for those that want a few minutes at four different stop to take photos.

66. Take a Virtual Ride Through Alaska

The Alaska Experience Theate r is a small theater downtown showing feature films about the earthquake, the northern lights, and Alaska’s Wildlife. They have shows every 30 minutes in May-September for just a couple of bucks.

67. Peruse the Saturday Market

The Anchorage Saturday Market , which used to be downtown, has moved to South Anchorage. It is now located in the Dimond Parking Lot. This is unfortunate as it requires a car, but it is a lively place to get street food or shop for local products. You’ll find a few budget deals mixed in with quality art, but looking doesn’t cost a thing.

Top Annual Events and Festivals in Anchorage

These annual events are a great reason to plan your trip to experience them in person. I already mentioned the Fur Rondy, so I left it out here.

68. Party at Midnight

Every Summer Solstice , Anchorage locals throw a party to celebrate our 22 hours of daylight. Located right downtown, you’ll find games, food, street vendors, live music, and more.

69. Girdwood Festivals

View this post on Instagram Today, we celebrate the perfect combination of sun & snow. The biggest bash of the year, the 42nd Annual @alaskaair Spring Carnival. ⁣ ⁣ ⁣ ⁣ #alyeskaresort #slushcup #slushcup2019 #alaska #girdwood #springcarnival #spring #party #snowsports #ski #snowboard A post shared by Alyeska Resort (@resortalyeska) on Apr 13, 2019 at 5:48pm PDT

The town of Girdwood always has something happening, from its annual Forest Fair , the Blueberry Festival , the Mushroom Festival , and the Spring Carnival . Check the Alyeska Hotel’s website for all the fun local events.

70. Celebrate the 4th of July

I’m sure every city in the U.S. has a 4th of July celebration, but if you’re in Anchorage to celebrate, make sure you head downtown to the Delaney Park Strip for everything from a pancake breakfast to a wholesome parade.

71. Support Pride Week

Show your support for Anchorage’s wonderful LGBTQI community in a colorful week-long PRIDE celebration at the Delaney Park Strip . Daily events include 150 vendors, live music, a pride parade, a beer garden, and plenty of family-friendly activities. This event is usually the last week of June, around the 21-27th.

72. Attend Alaska’s State Fair

Check our annual state fair dates if you are in the Anchorage area in the autumn, around August/September. It is about an hour and a half drive away in an adorable town called Palmer. Visiting the fair is a great way to learn about Alaska’s farming culture while you also can enjoy rides, food, music, and local products.

Local Things to Do in Anchorage

Most locals do all of the above regularly, but I’ll share a few hidden gems with you, from bakeries to a secret beach.

73. Hit the Beach

Want to hit the beach in Anchorage? Well, it is a thing you can do! Head to Pt. Campbell Park for a relaxing place to watch the waves lap along the shore. It is not the easiest place to get to or very accessible, but if you’re down for a little adventure, it is worth the trek for endless views over the inlet. You can even see Fire Island – where Anchorage’s wind power is generated. I do not recommend swimming at this beach, as the water is cold and there is glacial silt. But, I DO recommend doing as the locals do, taking a small picnic with a bottle of wine and enjoying some fresh air and great views.

While in the area, check out Anchorage’s dunes in Kincaid Park .

If you want to go swimming in the summer, head to Jewel Lake or Goose Lake, which have designated swimming areas and lifeguards on duty. Pack your swimmers, some local beer, a picnic, and a few games.

74. Watch a Movie While You Eat Alaska’s Best Pizza

One of my favorite things to do as a local is to head to the Bear Tooth movie theater . Grab a seat, catch a cheap movie, eat some of the best pizzas, and drink some of the best beer in town. Check the Bear Tooth Theater for what is playing and get your tickets.

75. Rock out at Williwaw

If you want to hang out with some of Anchorage’s hippest people, check out some of the events at the Williwaw Social. They host everything from yoga and beer to world-class electronic DJs like Nero, bingo nights, and local bands. This is your place if you love live music, food, and friendly people.

76. Watch a Baseball Game

The Anchorage Glacier Pilots are the home team, and locals love going out and supporting the team! Take advantage of those long summer days and head to the ballpark for local baseball action.

Dress The Part

The last thing I recommend you do in Anchorage is dress like a local. Grab a pair of X-Tra Tuffs from Big Rays downtown. These boots are the footwear of Alaska, and people even get married in them – I know I did, haha. Pair those boots with a flannel and some Carharts, and you’re a real Anchorage local!

Don’t Forget to Book Accommodation.

What is your favorite thing to do in anchorage.

Let me know in the comments if you have a favorite thing I missed. Be sure to share this with your favorite Alaskan Pinterest board for future inspiration. Whether it is winter and you’re seeing the Aurora

About the Author: Susanna Kelly-Shankar

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26 comments.

This is the best Anchorage to-do list I’ve seen! It also brought back so many wonderful memories of when I was based in Anchorage, which is a place that just lodges itself right in your heart. I can’t wait to go back. Thanks for the great content and fun burst of nostalgia :)

Awe, thank you so much. Anchorage is such a great city with so many things to do and see. A lot of guides only scratch the surface, so hopefully, this allows people to explore the city a bit more authentically. I hope you make it back soon!

I am so looking forward to visiting Alaska once the pandemic is

As a born and raised Alaskan, you did an awesome job compiling this list! However, one thing I’d personally add: you mentioned Kaladi Brothers’ and Steamdot’s downtown locations, but not Side Street or Dark Horse Coffee right around the corner! Both are really quaint little places that have been in the downtown neighborhood for 20+ years. Both are owner operated and are great places for the coffee drinker that seeks simplicity.

Thanks, Jessica, I do love Dark Horse, I’ll have to add it to the list. Next time I’m home visiting the parents, I’ll check out Side Street.

I have been wanting to go to Alaska for years, so this was fantastic fodder for when we finally get to visit! I LOVE the sound of taking the Alaska Railroad for a day trip!

It is definitely one of my favorite things to do in Anchorage, you can see so much riding the train as a day trip from Anchroage.

I haven’t been to Anchorage – yet. When I do get to explore it, I will have to allow a lot more time. I had no clue that there was so much to do.

You should spend at least 3 days in Alaska in order to do all the amazing things there are to do in Anchroage!

Flightseeing! So amazing! And thanks for mentioning ethical animal seeing. I definitely saved this for when I visit Anchorage. Thank you.

There are loads of flightseeing tours from Anchorage, you can see loads of wildlife and amazing aerial views of the stunning nature around Anchorage.

Anchorage is on my bucket list so this post is perfect! I love how you’ve organized into categories. Hikes and midnight sun sound amazing.

Hiking at 11pm is a true Alaskan way to spend the summer.

Woah this is such a good list of things to do! I can’t wait to visit Anchorage :)

My wife and I are moving to anchorage from North Texas his spring after accepting a job with a local hospital.

Your list gets me so excited to dive in to the AK culture.

Thanks for all the wonderful suggestions.

Good luck with your move, I wish you the best in Alaska! I’m sure you’ll love it.

I will be using this list A LOT as I plan this trip! Thank you! Any suggestions for whale watching in the area?

Hi Sandi, I have a post about things to do in Seward – where you can do whale watching. I only recommend two companies. Major Marine Tours – a family-owned tour company that focuses on ethical and sustainable whale watching. They bring a park ranger on board usually and it’s a great experience. Or Seward Ocean Excursions – a very small family-owned company that focuses on private tours on small boats. https://curiositysavestravel.com/sustainable-travel-guide-seward-alaska/ Have fun, Sooz

What stone street are you walking down in the title picture, with the star shaped garland overhead? I’ve only lived in Anchorage a few years but have never seen a street like that. Would love to experience it!

Hi Lacy, if you look through my post, I do not have an image with cobblestones or garlands. All images featured in the post are from the Anchorage area and do not feature stone streets. I believe you are referring to a pin circulating on Pinterest at the moment. Unfortunately, someone pinned an incorrect image from France and saved it as a pin for this post. I’ve contacted Pinterest for help regarding the matter and removing the pin from circulation and hopefully, they will be responsive. I’m sorry for any confusion and thanks for bringing this to my attention. Alaska definitely does not have cobblestone streets and old timber houses, but it has plenty of natural beauty!

Olá, adorei as dicas Estaremos em fevereiro/23 em Anchorage. Vc tem dicas de onde consigo alugar roupas de inverno? Roupa para inverno congelante do Alaska

Hi hopefully, Google translate was accurate enough here. I suggest you rent winter clothing from Alaska Outdoor Gear Rental. You can find parkas, gloves, hats, and all sorts of things you need for cold weather. Hope that helps.

We are heading to anchorage the end of this month into June. This was the best list of all things while we are there. Thank you!!

Thanks so much, Cindy. Anchorage is such a great city and there are so many awesome things to do there. I hope you enjoy your trip to Anchorage! -Sooz

Wow, this guide is making me want to book a trip to Anchorage right now! Thank you so much for sharing this useful and helpful information. I really appreciate it.

I hope you get to Anchorage soon, it is an incredible place!

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

The Best Things To See And Do In Anchorage, Alaska

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• Destinations
• United States

Anchorage is Alaska’s largest city — by a long shot. Approximately 40 percent of Alaskans live within the city limits (only New York boasts a higher percentage of residents living in its most populous city). The result is that Anchorage has a little bit of everything: a diverse population, a great food scene, and a mix of museums, attractions, galleries, and shops. It provides both urban amenities and rural escapes.

Here are the best things to do on a visit to Anchorage.

Linda Harms / Shutterstock

Visit The Anchorage Museum

The Anchorage Museum , the largest in the state, tells the story of the city, its people, the land, and the distinct environment by using a combination of art and design, history, science, and culture alongside photography, video, sculpture, and multimedia. Some of its star attractions include the Smithsonian Arctic Studies Center , a planetarium, and an amazing science discovery center with hands-on marine life tanks.

The on-site cafe, Muse , is a step above the usual museum cafe offerings — it focuses on Alaskan cuisine. The museum’s gift shop has a beautiful selection of unique souvenirs featuring local art.

EQRoy / Shutterstock

Soar At The Alaska Aviation Museum

Located at the nearby Lake Hood Seaplane Base, the world’s largest seaplane base, the Alaska Aviation Museum tells the story of how Alaska shaped the aviation industry (and vice versa). During your visit, you’ll likely observe some of the 87,000 seaplane landings and takeoffs that take place each year at the base.

Visitors can tour four hangars filled with vintage aircraft (more than two dozen are still in flying condition) as well as special exhibitions, such as the ongoing Women in Aviation display. And in the restoration hangar, visitors can watch volunteers at work restoring antique aircraft. The atmosphere here is very hands-on, and kids and aviation enthusiasts alike will love the flight simulator!

Lisa A. Ernst / Shutterstock

Hike Or Bike The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail

Alaska is famous for its beautiful scenery. In Anchorage, there’s a great selection of trails and paths to choose from, but if you only have time for one, make it the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail . This flat, paved trail starts downtown and travels some 11 miles along the Cook Inlet coast, with multiple trails branching off from it. You can easily loop back downtown if you only want a short excursion.

If you prefer to explore on two wheels, there are several downtown bike rental shops to choose from, including Pablo’s Bicycle Rentals , which also offers electric bikes. With a bit of luck, you might just spot a beluga whale or a moose (from a safe distance!) as you explore.

NattyC / Shutterstock

Go Glacier-Spotting

No matter how you get around, you should be sure to visit a glacier near Anchorage. The Matanuska Glacier , just off the Glenn Highway, can be seen from the roadside scenic overlook. If you’re visiting during the winter and feeling adventurous, there are even guided walks that will take you into the glacier’s caves and paths. Exit Glacier is equally accessible, just a short walk from the Seward Visitor Center at Kenai Fjords National Park . The park offers a number of ranger-led presentations and guided hikes to help guests get to know the glacier better.

Alternatively, you could ride the Alaska Railroad to access the Spencer Glacier , just 60 miles from Anchorage, which you can explore on foot or by kayak. And at Punchbowl Glacier , you can explore by helicopter or summer dogsled! If you go the dogsled route, you’ll see how the dogs are bred and trained before going on the ride of your life. At about $550 per person, it’s not necessarily the most economical activity in or around Anchorage, but it’s certainly one of the most memorable.

valiant.skies / Shutterstock

See The National Parks

Anchorage is the gateway to several large national parks. Denali National Park was the first national park to be established in Alaska, and, on a clear day, you can see the parklands from Anchorage. Kenai Fjords National Park is famous for its whale-watching opportunities , and Wrangell-Saint Elias National Park is the largest park in the United States. Finally, Lake Clark National Park and Katmai National Park are beloved for their bear-watching spots. Buying an annual park pass is a savvy way to see the parks and save some money.

Be Inspired At 2 Friends Gallery

Anchorage has a great art scene, and one of the best places to check it out is at 2 Friends Gallery . A self-described “most unusual gallery,” it hosts Alaskan and international artists, and the collection is a quirky mix of fine art, unusual sculptures, unique folk art, and spectacular jewelry. The shop also takes art on consignment, and lucky customers might nab some amazing vintage pieces.

Get Crafty At The Far North Yarn Co.

This self-described “Alaskan yarn haven” lives up to the hype. Crafters will love this charming store! The gorgeous rainbow of yarn colors on display is utterly Instagram-worthy and will inspire your next project — which the shop can help supply, since it carries a great stock of patterns and projects. The shop’s KAL (knit-a-long) drop-in classes are free of charge and a great way to meet the locals.

Eating And Drinking In Anchorage

Forget about eating in Anchorage. As any local will tell you, everyone in town is obsessed with drinking — drinking coffee, that is. Anchorage has one of the most vibrant independent coffeehouse scenes in the U.S., with more coffee shops per person than any other city. The coffee is roasted locally, and the baristas are highly trained. Places worth visiting include Kaladi Brothers Coffee , well respected for its roasting skills; SteamDot Coffee , which happily caters to coffee snobs who want precision; Snow City Cafe , which counts President Barack Obama among its fans; and Side Street Espresso , famous for its daily chalkboard art.

After you’ve had your fill of coffee (if that’s even possible), grab a bite at one of the following outstanding options.

Bear Tooth Theatrepub

Screening a mix of mass-release and indie films plus hosting special events like the Fly Fishing Film Tour and the Barista Cup coffee competition should be enough to keep the Bear Tooth Theatrepub busy, but it doesn’t stop there. It’s also a full-service bistro-pub that serves about three dozen kinds of pizza as well as salads, wraps, tacos, and burritos. There are plenty of gluten-free and vegetarian options, plus a long list of craft beers from Broken Tooth Brewing.

Try the Amazing Apricot pizza, with blackened chicken, cream cheese, apricot sauce, red peppers, carrot threads, green onions, cilantro, mozzarella, and provolone. The Call of the Wild is another great option, with reindeer sausage, steak, bacon, portobello and crimini mushrooms, red peppers, green onions, garlic cream sauce, mozzarella, provolone, and garlic oil.

The Writer’s Block Bookstore & Cafe

Building on the proud tradition of combining books and coffee, The Writer’s Block Bookstore & Cafe offers a good list of coffeehouse favorites, like banana bread and granola-yogurt parfaits. But it really goes the distance and makes its own bagels in house, serves up hearty panini sandwiches, and draws inspiration from Russian, Jewish, and American Southwestern culinary traditions. On the book side, The Writer’s Block boasts robust collections by Alaskan authors and authors from the Pacific Northwest. It’s a cozy, welcoming space.

Middle Way Cafe

Proudly unconventional, the Middle Way Cafe focuses on organic and local, sustainably sourced ingredients. The menu features sandwiches, salads, smoothies, burgers, and grain bowls. The extensive breakfast menu includes everything from avocado toast and a vegan breakfast burrito to blueberry banana pancakes and the Base Camp, a hearty platter of eggs; multigrain pancakes or French toast; and bacon, reindeer sausage, ham, or blackened tofu. Of course, the coffee is delicious and locally roasted.

Yak And Yeti

Yak and Yeti is both a full-service restaurant (at 3301 Spenard Road) and a wee cafe (at 1360 West Northern Lights Boulevard). The cafe keeps things simple, with offerings like curried egg salad sandwiches, potato leek soup, and pork curry rice bowls. The restaurant offers Tibetan delicacies plus Indian and Nepalese dishes, including homemade dumplings, spicy goat curry, and coconut shrimp.

Where To Stay In Anchorage

Alaskan frontier gardens bed & breakfast.

Alaskan Frontier Gardens Bed & Breakfast is a well-established property that has been welcoming guests for more than 25 years. It’s set on 3 acres with gorgeous gardens, and guests have access to outdoor lounging spaces including a deck and spa. Rates range from $75 per night to $225 per night, depending on the size of room and the season. The property is located about 20 minutes from downtown Anchorage.

Parkside Guest House

This Arts and Crafts-style property offers bed and breakfast accommodations from June through September. The beautiful, spacious rooms at the Parkside Guest House start at $265 per night and include a continental breakfast.

Base Camp Anchorage

Base Camp Anchorage is a hostel unlike any other. It boasts a wood-burning sauna, locally roasted coffee (naturally!), and an organic vegetable garden, plus all-female dorms, mixed dorms, and a private room. Prices range from $36 per night to $88 per night, and amenities include laundry, parking, bike rentals, and a large backyard. This is the perfect option for budget-conscious travelers.

Historic Anchorage Hotel

Since 1916, this charmingly old-fashioned hotel has been welcoming guests to its 26 well-appointed rooms. It has all the amenities of a bigger hotel, including business and fitness centers, a concierge desk, and a full breakfast buffet. The Historic Anchorage Hotel is also rumored to have something that only a few hotels can boast — the occasional haunting! Rates range from about $120 per night to $320 per night, depending on the size of room and the season.

Vanessa Chiasson is an award-winning freelance writer, editor, and blogger from Canada bringing warmth and depth to travel and human interest narratives. In the industry since 2012, Vanessa coaches writers from all backgrounds, areas of focus, and experience levels on developing business strategies that support their artistic endeavors. She chronicles her cozy travel adventures at TurnipseedTravel .

11 Of The Best Places To See The Aurora In Anchorage

Whether you are coming to Alaska for the first time, or have lived here your whole life, you might be surprised to find out how easy it is to see the magical Aurora so close to Alaska’s largest city!

In this article we will show you some of the best spots to view and photograph the Aurora within a day trip’s distance from Anchorage Alaska.

Keep in mind the best times to view the Aurora are between August to April of each year. The darker the skies the better the view.

Check the current Aurora forecast provided by the University of Alaska Fairbanks .

We will show you exactly where to go for premium viewing, and also share some insights from several local photographers. Let us help you find amazing places to see the Aurora and how to take amazing photos using everything from your cell phone, to high end camera set-ups.

Viewing The Aurora In Anchorage Alaska

That’s right, you don’t even have to leave Anchorage to have some of the best Aurora viewing in the state.

Whether you are just peaking out of your hotel, or are up for a small hike, there are several locations around Anchorage that make for excellent viewing.

1.) Flattop Mountain Trail

The photo above was taken at the top of the Flattop Mountain Trail and is a breathtaking 3.3 mile loop trail that offers amazing sights of the sprawling city lights below fading into the twinkling stars and awe inspiring Aurora above.

• Driving Directions: Parking lot, Blueberry Loop Trail, Anchorage, AK 99516

2.) Glenn Alps Trailhead

If you are not in a hiking mood, don’t worry! You can also park at the base of the Glenn Alps trailhead (this is the same parking area as the Flattop hiking trail) and take a short (less than 10 minute) walk to a large viewing platform to observe the beautiful ribbons of the Aurora as seen below.

3.) South Anchorage (Hillside Neighborhood)

There are many locations in the city itself to look up and enjoy the elegance of the Aurora. A very popular spot, that provides spectacular views with only a 15 minute drive to South Anchorage, is the Hillside neighborhood area (this includes Hillside Drive, the upper end of O’malley Road, and the Upper Abbott Road).

This is a popular viewing spot, but unlike Baldy, the parking lot is large, and there is plenty of room for lots of people. – Chad Kotter

Chad Kotter, the photographer who captured the image above, shows how this area is a great “example of finding clear (enough) dark skies with a northern view.” This was taken in the Hillside area of South Anchorage. You can find safe places to park out of traffic and respecting private property, that are great for observing the aurora.

Viewing or photographing the Aurora in Anchorage is as easy as stepping outside and looking up, but for the best sights and shots, getting away from the downtown areas is always best.

4.) Bayshore Klatt Area

The last popular area in Anchorage, with very low light pollution , is the Bayshore Klatt area, not only can you take your time and cruise the area looking for your favorite spots in this quiet neighborhood, but you are also likely to avoid the big crowds chasing the Aurora.

In this area you can find, Turnagain Refuge Park and Carr-Gottstein Park.

These photos were taken by local Anchorage photographer Lacee Johnson using her iPhone 13, no fancy camera techniques, just point and click. Just another reminder that you don’t need high end equipment to capture the beautiful Aurora.

You don’t have to mess with any camera settings, it does an amazing job, and is so much faster and quicker for the average person, and modern phones pick up the color of the Aurora perfectly. – Lacee Johnson

5.) From The Seward Highway

Many people think about heading North when it comes to seeing the Aurora. However, taking a short 1 hour drive (or less) South of Anchorage will reveal incredible opportunities to view them, such as the picture above.

On a good night, the aurora isn’t limited to the northern horizon, and a bright moon helps illuminate the landscape and add interest. Proof that the moon doesn’t ruin aurora photos! There are many safe pull-offs all along the Seward Highway to view the aurora. – Chad Kotter

6.) Turnagain Arm Pulloffs

Along the highway itself and in the areas surrounding Turnagain Pass, you can expect to witness incredible ocean scenes leading into towering mountain ranges, with the Aurora dancing overhead on a good clear night.

There are multiple spots to stop, so whenever the action above has your attention, you won’t have to wait long before you can pull over and soak it all in.

• Just start driving south of Anchorage towards Girdwood.

7.) Turnagain Pass or Taylor Creek

If you go as far as Turnagain Pass or Taylor Creek, you can actually enter the majestic high mountain passes and watch the Aurora from a very different perspective.

Even when the Aurora is less active, this area still offers amazing night-time scenes, “Sometimes an anticipated display doesn’t live up to expectations. I liked the composition of this scene, so I captured star trails with a simple auroral arc by stacking many images together. Chasing lights is definitely a game of patience, but there is beauty everywhere to enjoy, and sometimes even capture on camera.”

8.) Knik River & Eklutna Tailrace

Heading north a little on the Glenn Highway will bring us to a very special location, the Eklutna Tailrace and Knik River area.

One of the things that makes this area so unique is that the water around the tailrace almost never freezes as it passes through turbines at a local powerplant. This means viewing the beautiful Aurora can be done, complete with incredible reflections, all year round.

9.) Knik River (Off The Old Glenn Highway)

Down by the edge of the Knik River, for the first 10 miles off the Old Glenn Highway, there are many opportunities to stop and bask in the glory of the Aurora. Because the Knik River has such beautiful curves and leading lines with far reaching mountain backdrops, it makes for stunning and extraordinary viewing.

The Knik River area is special, it really is, it affords so many different views of the Aurora. So if you don’t like one scene, you can just drive down the road a little and find your favorite! – Phillip Flippo (Flippo Photography)

These locations are excellent because there is almost zero light pollution, but are also safe and accessible for those trying to set-up to watch the Aurora in the dark of night.

I look for locations with little traffic, that have unobstructed northern views with minimal light pollution, and some type of interesting landscape or architectural feature, or other foreground element. I think about ease of access, and if it’s a place I can easily find in the dark, and feel safe at. – Chad Kotter

• Find these locations by driving north of Anchorage towards Wasilla/Palmer.

A Further Drive Away From Anchorage But Within A Few Hours Drive Towards Denali (The George Parks Highway)

This last option is much further away from Anchorage and can offer you some of the best viewing of the Aurora. It’s still within a few hours drive of Anchorage which is why we are listing it within this article.

10.) Drive Towards Denali / Fairbanks

If you have a little bit more time and really want to make a whole night (or more) of seeing and capturing the beautiful Aurora, with a massive variety of Alaskan locales, the highway heading up towards Denali and Fairbanks is a must!

The absolute solitude, the sheer number of places to stop, the awe-inspiring vast wilderness, and the epic scale of the mountains along this stretch of highway, not to mention Denali itself, make this one of my favorite Aurora spots, period. – Phillip Flippo (Flippo Photography)

11.) North and South Denali Viewing Areas

The stretch of road between Talkeetna and Cantwell is the real star here. If it’s a clear night, you might get to see one of the rarest sights on earth, the Aurora and Denali (North America’s tallest mountain) together.

There are so many locations to pull over and check out including the famous North and South Denali viewing areas. The photo above was taken 45 minutes north of Talkeetna right from the highway.

• Getting There – put into Google maps Denali Viewpoint South

Although you can always just drive a portion of the highway, driving the full 3 hours and 40 minutes to Cantwell from Anchorage is an incredible experience.

It is the only trip on our list that gives you a real chance to see the Aurora change drastically as you head north. Also, as weather may not always be on your side, it gives you the opportunity to potentially bypass patches of cloudy skies.

Between the sheer number of places to stop, and the ability to “out-drive” the bad weather, it’s a long, but well worth it trip to take!

Final Thoughts On The Best Places To See The Aurora Near Anchorage

Now that you know some of the absolute best places to see the Aurora near Anchorage we thought we would ask a few of our local Alaskan photographers who chase them for their final thoughts.

If you are anywhere under the Aurora, you are already in the right place, I just hope we gave you some ideas to find your next right place.

Suggestions From Our Photographers Who Chase The Aurora

Phillip Flippo: I think that if you really want to witness the Aurora in all its beauty, hope for a clear night and you will probably see something very cool if you go to any of these places we have been talking about! Alaska is full of incredible locations to see the Aurora, so start with what is easiest for you and then travel further as you become more comfortable. If you are anywhere under the Aurora, you are already in the right place, I just hope we gave you some ideas to find your next right place.

Lacee Johnson: They (the Aurora) can be unpredictable, you could be here for three weeks and see them every night, or never once. The northern lights are not photoshopped things, they are real, and if you get to see them, they are incredible. Again, you don’t need a high-tech camera, you don’t need to climb a mountain, you can be in Alaska’s largest city, and still see the most amazing lights.

I also want to tell people that the real Alaska in winter, it’s not this big miserable cold and dark experience, it is so bright and beautiful, it’s my number one thing, to show people. There is so much life and color in Alaska in the winter.

Todd List: Once you witness a strong Aurora show it can become addicting, and even though you are on Earth, the lights are truly out of this world!

Chad Kotter: For those traveling to Anchorage to see aurora, locations become harder to get to. Most rental cars aren’t the type you want to drive around on dark isolated roads, and you’re lucky if you find one with studded tires.

Your best bet in this situation is probably to hire a reputable guiding service. Alaska Photo Treks is a great choice (I guide with them part-time), they will pick you up at your hotel, take you to the best location(s) for that particular night, and assist you with your cameras. They also will take your portrait in front of the aurora! A good guide service won’t run the tour unless chances to see the lights are ideal, with both favorable earth weather and aurora activity.”

Jacob Cohen: The most important thing you have to be able to do in order to see the Aurora on any given night; is to see the stars. Look for the big dipper, in that direction is where you will see the Northern Lights in Alaska. If you can’t see stars, you have no shot!

We all wish you luck and please let us know where your favorite Aurora viewing spots are!

Phillip Flippo

My name is Phillip Flippo and I am a professional nature and wildlife photographer based out of Wasilla Alaska. As a lifelong Alaskan, I have always been captivated by the incredible scenes and amazing sights that our great state has to offer. Sharing photos, films, and articles from the real wild Alaska is a passion of mine, and I work hard to deliver the best of best to audiences around the world! Whether I am climbing mountains, spending time at sea, or exploring the frozen unknown I want to help others unlock Alaska’s mysteries for themselves. I truly believe we are always better off united, sharing the beautiful destinations of our world, and helping each other discover the most amazing experiences; and that is exactly my mission, to share, to help mentor, and to find the best Alaska has to offer!

• Phillip Flippo https://thealaskafrontier.com/author/phillipflippo/ 5 Best Bear Viewing Spots In Alaska | What You Need To Know
• Phillip Flippo https://thealaskafrontier.com/author/phillipflippo/ The Ultimate Guide To McNeil River State Game Sanctuary
• Phillip Flippo https://thealaskafrontier.com/author/phillipflippo/ The Best Fall Drive In Alaska | Anchorage To Valdez
• Phillip Flippo https://thealaskafrontier.com/author/phillipflippo/ Orca Island Cabins | A Journey Into A Truly Alaskan Paradise

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3 thoughts on “11 Of The Best Places To See The Aurora In Anchorage”

Excellent article. My wish is to visit one day. Thank you so much for all this valuable information.

Wonderful article and so informative. Thank you for sharing all these wonderful destinations. Beautiful photography!

Thanks for this article of tips! Definitely on my bucket list. In the meantime, the incredible aurora shots shared by those interviewed here will suffice.

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13 Must see stops between Anchorage and Seward Alaska

Last Updated on August 24, 2023

The drive from Anchorage to Seward is one of the most scenic drives anywhere in North America! I lived in Alaska for seven years and worked as a guide and still visit frequently. I have driven nearly every mile of road in Alaska and I am here to tell you that this drive is one of the best in the whole state.

This is a unforgettable drive because of the non stop stunning scenery , the variety of water and mountains and the many places to stop and stretch your legs. There’s just so much to see and the trip is fairly short compared to other Alaska road trips. The road is generally in good condition too.

If you’re driving from Anchorage to Seward, I recommend giving yourself all day to make the trip so you can fully enjoy all these stops and not have to rush. If you’re a hiker, make sure to give yourself time to do one of the amazing hikes along the way. Not a hiker? No problem, there are plenty of wonderful things to see right from your car or a short walk away. The view from the Alyeska Tram whisks you up to a high incredible view without any hiking at all.

The road is maintained all year and can be truly stunning on a beautiful winter day. Most visitors will be driving between May and September and this article focuses on a summer visit when everything is open.

Map of the Seward Highway from Anchorage to Seward

• How to get from Anchorage to Seward for a cruise

How long is the drive from Anchorage to Seward?

How can i get from anchorage to seward without a car.

• Parking passes
• Alaska Railroad
• Potter Marsh
• Beluga Point
• Alyeska Tram
• Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
• Portage Glacier and Portage Valley
• Turnagain Pass
• Cooper Landing Brewing
• Exit Glacier
• Best hikes between Anchorage and Seward

How to get from Seward to Anchorage for a cruise

If you’re boarding or leaving your cruise ship in Seward, it’s important to make a plan in advance for how you are getting between the ship and the Anchorage airport or your Anchorage hotel.

Seward is a small town and it is very busy in the summer with travelers on their own as well as cruise ships and lots of Alaskans come here too!

Taking a taxi or ride share from Anchorage is not an option (it’s a 2.5-3 hour drive). You can book transportation by motorcoach from Anchorage to Seward either through your cruise line or through an independent tour company.

You can also book the Alaska Railroad which is a very unique way to get between the ship and Anchorage! I’d recommend booking this through your cruise line so that they take care of your luggage and you don’t need to wait all day with your bags.

Finally, you can book a motorcoach or van tour that includes a tour of some interesting places along the way. Tours include options like a wildlife cruise from Seward, Portage Glacier, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center or the Alyeska Tram in Girdwood.

It’s about 130 miles from Anchorage to Seward. The actual driving time is less than three hours in good weather but I recommend spending the whole day so you don’t miss a thing on this gorgeous drive.

I don’t think I’ve ever been on a drive with so many interesting things to do along such a short distance! Even if you don’t stop, the scenery is still amazing for the entire drive. Make sure to mind the speed limit as the weather can change rapidly. Watch out cars and RVs making left turns and stopped in the road.

Finally, make sure to keep a close eye on the road and the brush beside you as there are frequently moose along this road. It’s a thrill to see a moose, but it is NOT a thrill to collide with one. If you are pulling over to look, make sure you fully pull over completely off the road.

This article is focused on the best stops along the highway if you are driving from Anchorage to Seward, but for those of you who are not wanting to or able to rent a car, you can see all this amazing scenery from the Alaska Railroad or the bus as well. You won’t get to make all these stops and walk around, but the trip will still be stunning!

Related : Things to do in Seward , Things to do in Anchorage

Parking Passes

Some of these stops are on Alaska State Recreation area land and require a parking pass. Generally you can get a pass at a parking area if they are required and they cost $5-$10. You can also buy an annual pass online ($60 for the year).

Must See stops on your Anchorage to Seward road trip

You’ll probably need to prioritize because it’s hard to do everything on this list in one trip! Lucky for you, you’re probably driving round trip, so you can pace yourself by saving some stops for the return.

#1 Alaska Railroad

The Alaska Railroad is near the highway for a good portion of the drive from Anchorage to Seward. If you make this drive, chances are good you’ll get a glimpse of the photogenic blue and yellow Alaska Railroad along the road or from one of the pullouts along the Seward Highway. Keep an eye out for some great photo ops! You can check the Alaska Railroad schedule online to get a better sense of what time the train passes in different locations.

#2 Potter Marsh

You’ve barely gotten outside of the city of Anchorage when you arrive at Potter Marsh. This end of the Anchorage Coastal Wildlife Refuge is a mandatory stop for bird and wildlife lovers! There are ADA accessible restrooms in the parking area and a half mile flat boardwalk to wander along looking for the many kinds of birds that frequent Potter Marsh. This is also an excellent place to see moose, so keep your eyes open for them in the marshy wetlands they frequent and love.

#3 Beluga Point

One of the many stunning vistas along the Seward Highway between Anchorage and Seward, Beluga Point has a large parking area. This is a good place to watch for the train to go by too.

In addition to views of the stunning mountains along Turnagain Arm, this is one of the places along the route you can see Turnagain Arm’s famous bore tide. The bore tide happens when the tide is changing and creates such a strong current it looks like a river instead of salt water! It’s particularly dramatic in winter when bits of ice rush by and crash into each other in the current.

As the name suggests, this is also a good place to keep your eyes out for Beluga whales, a relatively small whale that frequents these waters for a few weeks in midsummer.

#4 Bird Point

Similar scenery to Beluga Point, Bird Point is also a great picture stop with a chance of seeing Belugas, the bore tide and the Alaska Railroad. This is also one end of the so-called “Bird to Gird” trail, a paved walking and biking trail along Turnagain Arm. More about this in the hikes section below.

#5 Alyeska Tram

If you’re not a hiker, then you absolutely must take the tram to get the amazing views you’ve seen from below without any hiking! From the top of the tram, you can see not only most of Turnagain Arm, but mountains that seem to stretch forever.

The tram is at the Alyeska Ski Resort, and they operate and offer scenic tram rides in the summer. There is also a fine dining restaurant here with the amazing view.

Board the tram at the Alyeska Resort in Girdwood. The cost is $48/adults, $38/children (5-18) and free for children 5 and under.

If you have extra time, relax for awhile at the Alyeska Nordic Spa (reservations required).

#6 Town of Girdwood

The town of Girdwood itself is worth a stop. This fun ski oriented town by winter turns to a hiking and mountain biking paradise in the summer. There’s a great ice cream shop, creatively called “the ice cream shop” near the gas station at the turn off into town from the Seward Highway. The ice cream shop is a mandatory stop for our family anytime we’re driving from Anchorage to Seward!

Chair 5 is also a great place for pizza and beer in Girdwood. It’s very popular with locals and visitors so be prepared to wait but the wait is worth it. Double Musky and Jack Sprat are both ideal food stops for foodies (be prepared to wait a long time). If you really want to take it easy in Girdwood, make a reservation for the day spa at Alyeska resort.

#7 Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

A favorite activity for Alaskans and visitors alike, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is a wonderful place to see Alaska’s wildlife up close! This is also a good location to practice your wildlife photography.

A beautiful outdoor area and sanctuary for wildlife, the center is dedicated to education about conservation and wildlife preservation in Alaska. Walk or drive the loop around the center and see bears, wolves, caribou, musk oxen, foxes and more. I recommend parking and walking around the grounds, although you can also drive between the different areas if you prefer (as long as you aren’t in an RV).

It open all year and the cost is $17/adults, $13/student, $15/seniors or military and free for children.

You’ll see the sign for it just past Girdwood.

#8 Portage Glacier boat trip and Portage Valley

Portage Valley is a worthy day trip from Anchorage all by itself! Even if you’re just passing through, at least stop at Portage Lake and learn about the glacier. You can no longer see the glacier from the visitor center as it has retreated around the corner. The glacier is visible from the short boat tour across the lake.

You can also see many other glaciers in the Portage Valley by walking along the boardwalk on the trail of blue ice, which is flat and has views of glaciers up in the mountains above.

Related : How to visit Portage Glacier

#10 Turnagain Pass

Make sure to stop at the rest area at the top of Turnagain Pass. Turnagain Pass represents the highest point along the Seward Highway between Anchorage and Seward. It’s only 1000 feet above sea level but it’s stunning mountain scenery makes it seem like you’re way up there!

#9 Cooper Landing Brewing

Cooper Landing Brewing is about a half hour detour (15 minutes each way) but is a mandatory stop for beer lovers! They have delicious beer and indoor and covered outdoor seating. They don’t serve food but they do have an excellent food truck in the parking lot with lots of classic favorite sandwiches.

To get there, turn onto the Sterling Highway towards Cooper Landing and Soldotna. Look for the big log building and large gravel parking area on the left after about 8 miles. It’s just before you get to the town of Cooper Landing.

#11 Moose Pass

Shortly beyond the turnoff to Cooper Landing and the rest of the Kenai Peninsula, you’ll come to beautiful Summit Lake and the tiny community of Moose Pass.

As you arrive at Summit Lake if you’re interested in salmon you can stop at the Moose Creek fish viewing platform to see spawning salmon up close. Late July and early August is the best time to catch salmon spawning here and possibly see eagles or bears who are here fishing.

There is a lodge and restaurant here. Keep an eye out for moose on the shores of the lake.

#12 Kenai Lake

Your next stop on the drive from Anchorage to Seward is Kenai Lake. This large L shaped lake has many access points and you will drive along it for several miles. There are tours going out on the lake for fishing and other recreation, or you can just enjoy it’s beauty as you go by.

#13 Exit Glacier

Exit Glacier is an absolutely stunning place that you must stop either on your way into Seward or out (unless you’re spending a whole day there, which is also an excellent idea!). You’ll see the turn off just outside of the town of Seward.

Once you turn off, you’ll head up a forested road and enter Kenai Fjords National Park. At the nature center you can learn about Exit Glacier and take a paved trail to a view point or do a really tough hike up the mountain next to it. See more on hiking at Exit Glacier below!

If you’re not a hiker, you can still see Exit Glacier from the road as you drive up to it.

Best Hikes between Anchorage and Seward

If you’re a hiker, there are plenty of great hikes along the road from Anchorage to Seward! Bears are present on all these trails so make sure to travel in groups and carry bear spray with you. Give yourself even more time and check out one of these beautiful and beloved favorite hikes:

McHugh Creek Trail

This trail goes all the way to Rabbit Lake, but as a stop on the highway, I recommend either the short loop through the forest by the creek, or a longer and steeper climb up to views of Turnagain Arm that start after about 3 miles of climbing through the forest. It’s about 1800 feet of elevation gain to the viewpoint. The trailhead is between Potter Marsh and Beluga Point.

If you want a similar view as the view from the Alyeska tram but don’t want to pay for the tram, you can hike this trail instead! You’ll pay for the climb in other ways, like your complaining muscles the next day! This is a hard hike with a wonderful view if you’re an experienced hiker. There are viewpoints you can reach without going all the way to the top if a shorter hike is more your style. The shorter option is still plenty steep. This trail is 5 miles round trip with 3400 feet of elevation gain. Super steep! The trailhead is in Chugach State Park between Anchorage and Girdwood near the Bird Creek Campground.

Bird to Gird

This 12 mile paved trail goes along Turnagain Arm and is just about the most stunning bike path you’ll find anywhere. You can start at Bird Point or Girdwood and do a round trip or one way trip. You can rent bikes in Girdwood, or you can hike as much of the trail as you like.

Trail of Blue Ice

This 5 mile trail in the Portage Valley takes you over creeks, through forest and around beautiful mountain views with frequent glaciers above you. Much of it is flat and a boardwalk although there are a few sections near the visitor center that go up and down a bit. You can start near the visitor center at Portage Lake and go as far as you like. If you have a bike this makes a great 10 mile round trip bike ride.

Iditarod National Historic Trail

Just outside of Seward on Nash Road, you can walk along a section of the historic original Iditarod trail. The trail was used by dog teams in winter to bring mail and supplies to remote Alaskan communities in the early 20th century. You can also hike on part of this historic trail on the Johnson Pass trail between Moose Pass and Granite Creek.

Kenai Fjords National Park

There are some amazing hiking trails at the only part of the park you can drive to, just before you get to Seward. Hikes here range from a mellow nature trail to one of the hardest and most rewarding hikes in Alaska! Read more about your hiking options in Kenai Fjords here .

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6 things to do this weekend in Anchorage

The calendar has turned to April, and while Anchorage may still be giving some wintertime vibes, that’s not going to stop the many activities scheduled for this weekend. There’s a comedy festival, a sportsman show, festivals and shows on stage — plus plenty of First Friday gatherings. Here’s a look at some of the highlights.

Alaska B4UDIE Comedy Festival

Through Sunday; various locations in Anchorage, Girdwood and Wasilla

Alaska’s biggest comedy festival, kicking off Thursday, runs through Sunday with a variety of events and performances. On Friday there is a comedy brunch at Moose A’La Mode and a Queer Comedy Showcase at Cafecito Bonito. There are also performances in Wasilla, Girdwood and throughout Anchorage on Friday. There are more events Saturday, and Sunday wraps up with the B4UDie Last Gasp at Koot’s. For tickets and a full schedule , visit alaskab4udiefest.com .

Great Alaska Sportsman Show

10 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday; Dena’ina Center, 600 W. Seventh Ave.

One of the biggest fishing, hunting and outdoor sports shows in the state is scheduled for this weekend. There will be plenty of exhibitors and gear, from fishing equipment to everything you need to outfit your next hunting trip. Tickets are $11 for adults and $3 for kids 12 and under. There are special discounted tickets and times for seniors and military on Friday and Saturday.

Luke Behler checks out a pair of cross-country skis during student night at the APU Outdoor Gear Swap in the Moseley Sports Center on the campus in Anchorage in 2017. (Bob Hallinen photo)

APU Gear Swap

10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday; Moseley Sports Center, 4400 University Drive

APU’s annual gear swap sells consignment outdoor recreation equipment from the community and 15% of the proceeds will go to APU’s Outdoor Program. The swap usually includes tons of winter gear and an assortment of surprises. If you have gear you’d like to sell, visit the gear swap’s Facebook event for more information.

Merry Marmot Festival

11 a.m. Saturday; Arctic Valley Ski Area, 18800 Arctic Valley Road

Arctic Valley Ski Area’s annual event is among the most fun and most creative. “The Big Climb” fat tire bike race kicks off the day, which also includes a downhill bike race, a slalom, a dummy launch and a big air competition. Plus, a taco bar is available for purchase and there’s music all day with Highway 9 playing at 6:30 p.m. to close out the festivities.

Adonis Rose & New Orleans Jazz Orchestra’s NOJO7

7:30 p.m. Saturday; Atwood Concert Hall, 621 W. Sixth Ave.

Grammy winner Adonis Rose leads NOJO7, a seven-person ensemble drawn from the full New Orleans Jazz Orchestra. Playing in the New Orleans brass band style, the group incorporate a number of other genres including funk and R&B. Tickets start at $35.

Bach: Mass in B minor

7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday; Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe, 3900 Wisconsin St.

The Alaska Chamber Singers present their season finale with this piece, which “represents the pinnacle of Western classical music, encompassing the full range of human experience — from wild virtuosity to immeasurable pathos to exuberant joy.” Tickets are $40, or $35 for veterans and seniors.

"Play Place" by artist Joshua Demain, whose work is featured on First Friday at IGCA in April 2024. (Photo provided by IGCA)

First Friday

Anchorage Museum : Featuring a celebration of the release of the young adult graphic novel “Safe Passenger” with comic illustrator David Brame, a session on creating expressive characters with graphic novelist Lucas Elliott, and an in-house artist demo with Lingít artist James Hart. Plus a number of docent-led talks and an Alaska-inspired outdoor business showcase, 625 C St., 6-9 p.m.

Tiny Gallery : Celebrating its fifth Tinyversary, 706 W. Fourth Ave., 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

Georgia Blue : Featuring artist Grace Choi, 3555 Arctic Blvd., 5-7 p.m.

IGCA : Featuring artwork from Scott McDonald, Joshua Demain and Jenny Irene Miller, 427 D St., 5-8 p.m.

A work by Yulia Kalagaeva, who is a featured First Friday artist at The Cove for April 2024. (Photo provided by The Cove)

The Cove : Featuring artwork by Yulia Kalagaeva and Hana Wilcoxson. Live music by Snarley Brown & Corey Boiko, 510 L St., 5:30-8:30 p.m.

Double Shovel Cider Co. : Featuring art from Amanda Rose Warren, 502 W. 58th Ave., 6-9 p.m.

Alaska Cycle Chic : Featuring artist Scott Clendaniel and live music with The Jake Legs, 908 W. Northern Lights Blvd., 5-7 p.m.

Sevigny Studio : Featuring Alaskan artist Meg Anderson. Live music will be the Brothers of Tom, 312 G St., 6-9 p.m.

Anchorage Distillery : Featuring the photography of Abigail Croot, 6310 A St., 5:30-8:30 p.m.

Captain Cook Art Co-op : Featuring Colleen Anagick and Sharon Hamilton of Soul Sisters Basketree, 939 W. Fifth Ave., 4-8 p.m.

To find more events around Anchorage, visit ADN.com/calendar .

Chris Bieri

Chris Bieri is the sports and entertainment editor at the Anchorage Daily News.

25 cheapest places to live in Alaska

Posted: December 19, 2023 | Last updated: December 19, 2023

Best Affordable Places to Live in Alaska in 2023

Alaska is a stunning state with dramatic landscapes, a rich culture, and exciting wildlife. However, its remote location and natural beauty make it an expensive place to live. The cost of living is nearly 25% more in Alaska than the national average across the U.S., making it the fifth most expensive state to live in. Grocery and utility costs are particularly high, both because of the state’s inaccessibility and because of its intense cold climate.

That said, you can still find affordable places to live in Alaska, and you’ll appreciate Alaska’s tax code. There are no state income taxes  and  no state sales taxes.

Even so, most of the best places to live in Alaska come at a high cost. Below, we’ll break down living costs in various large cities (and smaller towns).

Best Places to Live in Alaska

Finding the best places in Alaska to live depends on your wants and needs. The  cost of living in Alaska  is high, so it’s important you think about this move with your budget in mind, first and foremost. If you’re choosing between several possible locations, check out the  cost of living by state  for each.

You’ll also need to think about if you’d rather be on the coast, such as near Anchorage; inland, like near Fairbanks; or along the Inside Passage, such as near Juneau. Consider elements like climate, access to airports, and the natural landscape when making your decision.

Best Affordable Places to Live in Alaska

Alaska’s most popular cities, including Anchorage and Juneau, are expensive to live in. If you’re trying to move to Alaska on a budget, you’ll want to stick to smaller towns. The exception is Fairbanks, which is somewhat affordable — at least, by Alaska standards.

Regardless, make sure you look into  first-time homebuyer programs in Alaska  to see how you can save money. And if you’re a newbie homebuyer, use a  first-time homebuyer guide  to learn more about the process before you start shopping.

Palmer is an agricultural town outside of Anchorage; it’s just an hour drive to get to the big city. That’s far enough to find lower housing prices for both purchase and rent, but it still means you have access to Alaska’s largest city by population.

Population: 6,304

• Median Household Income: $62,068
• Cost of Living: 126.7% of U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $1,053
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.62
• Average Property Tax: 1.31%

Housing Affordability: The median rent in Palmer is $1,053, making it an affordable place to settle down in the so-called Last Frontier. Thinking about buying a home? The median home price is just under $225,000.

2. Knik-Fairview

Another affordable place to live in Alaska that isn’t far outside of Anchorage is Knik-Fairview. You’ll have to drive into Anchorage (it’s about an hour) for most things, but if you like the remoteness of the state, Knik-Fairview would be a place to put down roots.

• Population: 19,297
• Median Household Income: $88,708
• Median Rent Price: $1,408
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 2.89

Housing Affordability: The median rent is a little higher here ($1,408 a month), and purchasing a house is a little more challenging, with median home prices above $255,000. Still, Knik-Fairview is considerably more affordable than Anchorage itself. To compete more effectively in the market when home-shopping, think about  going through the mortgage preapproval process  before your search heats up.

(Learn more: Personal Loan Calculator)

Badger may be small, but it’s not far from Fairbanks, so there’s still plenty to do (beyond just enjoying Alaska’s beauty). Badger is a great spot to see the Northern Lights, and it’s also super close to the small city of North Pole, known for its year-round Christmas decorations.

• Population: 19,031
• Median Household Income: $89,375
• Cost of Living: 123.0% of U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $1,527
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 2.64
• Average Property Tax: 1.47%

Housing Affordability: Expect to pay a median monthly rent of $1,527 in Badger. Shopping for a home? You’ll pay around $236,000, based on median prices.

Homer is situated on Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula, in close proximity to Kenai Fjords National Park. Though remote, Homer is stunning. You’ll drive about 1.5 hours to get to Kenai or Soldotna, 3.5 hours to get to Seward, and 4 hours to get to Anchorage.

• Population: 5,876
• Median Household Income: $63,854
• Median Rent Price: $1,136
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 4.85
• Average Property Tax: 0.70%

Housing Affordability : Rent in Homer is very manageable by Alaskan standards, but its remote location means homes are expensive. The median home price in Homer is $309,500.

5. Fairbanks

Fairbanks is one of Alaska’s largest cities, but it’s much more affordable than Anchorage. If you’re moving to Alaska on a budget but still need a connection to people, Fairbanks is top of the list of best places in Alaska to live. The area is home to great restaurants, museums, and festivals, but it still offers access to Alaska’s pristine nature.

• Population: 32,107
• Median Household Income: $66,572
• Median Rent Price: $1,381
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.36

Housing Affordability: Median rent prices in Fairbanks are just under $1,400. Prospective home buyers can actually find good deals in the city; median home prices are under $225,000. (To see what type of home mortgage loan you might qualify for, consider getting  prequalified for a home loan  before you embark in earnest on your home search.)

Best Places to Live in Alaska for Families

Hoping to raise a family in the 49th state? Here are five great places to live in Alaska with your family:

Palmer gets your family easy access to Anchorage when you need it, without the high cost of living in the big city. Parents will appreciate its above-average school system. And your kids will find plenty of playmates here: More than a quarter of Palmer’s residents are under 18.

Housing Affordability: Palmer is nicely suited for families whether you’re looking to buy or rent your home. Median rental costs are $1,053 a month, and the median home price in Palmer is only $224,500.

2. Fairbanks

Want to raise your crew in a city large enough to offer all the commodities a busy family needs? Skip Alaska’s largest city, Anchorage, and think about settling in Fairbanks. Fairbanks offers plenty for your kids to do and still lets you easily access the natural part of Alaska that likely drew you to the state in the first place.

Housing Affordability: Given that Fairbanks is still one of Alaska’s larger cities, rent is more expensive ($1,381 median monthly cost). Buying a house isn’t unrealistic though, with a median home price of $223,600.

The capital of Alaska is one of the most stunning places in the world. Raising a family here means you’ll have access to city amenities, but natural wonders are just a step beyond your door. Families will find its great schools appealing, but will also want to keep in mind that it is heavily touristed, with cruise ships docking every day.

• Population: 31,685
• Median Household Income: $90,126
• Cost of Living: 114.2% of U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $1,319
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.97
• Average Property Tax: 0.98%

Housing Affordability: Rent in Juneau is moderately affordable, as far as Alaska goes. The median monthly rent is just over $1,300. Home ownership is a little less easily attainable, with median prices over $358,000.

Cordova is a great place to live with your family in Alaska. Though small, it’s ideally situated to reach Anchorage and the Kenai Peninsula, plus some of the coastal villages farther south. Families will find its combination of good schools and suburban vibe appealing.

• Population: 2,248
• Median Household Income: $91,442
• Cost of Living: 109.7% of U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $1,435
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.73
• Average Property Tax: 1.36%

Housing Affordability: Rent is on the higher side in Cordova (a median rent of $1,253 per month), and home ownership is similarly expensive. The median home price in Cordova is $341,100.

Unless you’re a commercial fisher, jobs may be harder to come by in Sitka than they are in Juneau. That said, if you have a remote job, Sitka should certainly be on your personal list of the best places to live in Alaska for families. It’s affordable and offers plenty of outdoor activities to keep kids immersed in nature — and the weather tends to be a little less harsh than cities and villages within the Inside Passage.

• Population: 8,382
• Median Household Income: $82,083
• Cost of Living: 133% of U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $1,232
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 4.48
• Average Property Tax: 0.53%

Housing Affordability: Rent in Sitka is more affordable than Juneau, but houses are actually slightly more expensive. To afford the near $368K median home price, you’ll likely need a high-paying remote job to move your family to Sitka.

Best Places to Live in Alaska for Young Adults

Young adults relocating to Alaska will find the most jobs, companionship, and things to do in the larger cities.

1. Anchorage

If you’re a young adult drawn to the remote adventures that await in Alaska — but you still want trendy restaurants and exciting nightlife — check out Anchorage. It’s the state’s largest city by a landslide, so there’s always something to do. Anchorage also skews fairly young; the median age is 34.3.

• Population: 287,145
• Median Household Income: $88,871
• Median Rent Price: $1,350
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.69
• Average Property Tax: 1.41%

Housing Affordability: Anchorage is sprawling, so housing costs vary depending on the neighborhood. Generally speaking, the median rent is $1,350, and the median house price is $327,500.

Young adults who want to make a name for themselves in Alaska without the high prices of Anchorage should consider Fairbanks. There’s plenty to do in the city for young people, and the median age is 28.2. Job opportunities abound; some of the largest employers include the University of Alaska, Doyon (a large Native corporation), Fairbanks Memorial Hospital, and authorGEN, a tech company focused on distance learning.

Housing Affordability : Renters in Fairbanks should expect a median monthly rent of $1,381. Buying a house in Fairbanks is doable for recent college grads with a steady job; the median home price is $223,600 which is one reason this city hit our list of the best places to live in Alaska for young adults.

Juneau offers plenty to do for young adults, including skiing and other outdoor activities. As a bonus, cruise ships visit Juneau every day, offering residents a chance to meet new people and make connections, even in a remote state like Alaska. As the seat of the Alaskan government, it also offers a lot of government job opportunities for young people. The median age does skew a little higher at 38.7.

Housing Affordability: Young adults who get a good job in Juneau shouldn’t have an issue with the median rent ($1,319). Those who decide to stay in Juneau and build a life will have to save for an expensive home; median prices are more than $358,000.

Fairbanks itself is a great city for young adults, but those who want to be a little farther out from the downtown area can settle down in Badger. The median age here is 32.9, and young adults can find plenty of work in healthcare, construction, public administration, mining, oil and gas, and more.

Housing Affordability: Badger rent is on the higher side ($1,527 median monthly rent), but buying a house feels more doable here than in the bigger cities. The median home price is $236,300.

5. Ketchikan

Ketchikan is one of the most stunning places to live within the Inside Passage. Abundant wildlife, ample hiking, and a thriving art scene make Ketchikan a unique place for young adults to settle down — especially those who don’t like big-city living.

• Population: 8,068
• Median Household Income: $68,125
• Median Rent Price: $1,166
• Average Property Tax: 0.81%

Housing Affordability: Rent and home purchase prices are more affordable in Ketchikan than other places in Alaska. However, the median household income is also lower. If you’re a young adult with a high-paying remote job, you can make your dollars stretch further in Ketchikan than you could buying property in Anchorage. Ready to start home shopping? Visit a  home loan help center  to learn more about mortgage options.

Best Places to Live in Alaska for Retirees

Retiring in Alaska isn’t logical from a financial perspective: Though Alaska doesn’t have state taxes (and so has the lowest tax burden on the  list of best states to retire for taxes ), it has a very high cost of living that can eat into retirement savings at a fast clip. It’s also not typical retirement weather, with winter temperatures typically staying well below freezing from November through March.

But if you want a retirement filled with remote adventure, Alaska could be right for you. Here are five places to consider retiring:

1. Ketchikan

Your money may go a little farther in Ketchikan than some other parts of the state. More importantly for retirees, you’ll be surrounded by stunning nature, everywhere you look — not to mention delicious salmon.

Housing Affordability: Retirees looking to rent in Ketchikan should plan to spend about $1,166 a month. But with a low property tax rate of just 0.81%, it may make sense to purchase a home; the median price is just over $270,000.

Palmer is a nice choice for retirees because it’s much more affordable than nearby Anchorage, but it still puts you less than an hour away from a major international airport — to more easily visit your kids and grandkids (and vice-versa). Retirees may also appreciate the small-town vibes of Palmer; it’s certainly quieter than Anchorage.

Housing Affordability: Palmer’s housing market is much more approachable than Anchorage’s. By retiring an hour outside the big city, you’re looking at median home prices of $225,000 instead of $327,000.

3. Fairbanks

Fairbanks offers retirees easy access to an airport, which might be important in the winter when you want to escape the cold. But if the cold is your thing, you’ll love Fairbanks. In fact, the Milken Institute named Fairbanks one of the Best Cities for Successful Aging a few years back, due in part to easy access to health and wellness amenities.

Housing Affordability: Though Fairbanks is Alaska’s second-biggest city, its homes are much more affordable than Anchorage, which is significantly larger. Retirees should budget $223,600 when buying a home in Fairbanks, based on the median price.

Juneau’s population over 65 may be small (just under 14%), but that doesn’t mean the spot isn’t friendly to retirees. If you want to live a more active lifestyle in retirement, the capital city of Alaska offers plenty to do, including wildlife watching and symphony orchestras.

Housing Affordability: Housing in Juneau isn’t cheap. The median home price is more than $358,000, and median monthly rent surpasses $1,319.

This coastal town is far enough outside Anchorage to give retirees a sense of remote living, but close enough to get to the airport in three hours — not an everyday drive, of course, but not as inconvenient as some other spots in Alaska. More importantly, Kenai has some of the most stunning scenery in the state, is home to several parks and beaches, and offers plenty of sport fishing, if that’s on your vision board for your retirement.

• Population: 7,653
• Median Household Income: $70,732
• Cost of Living: 118% of U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $1,090
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.30

Housing Affordability: Kenai may be a little more remote, but retirees willing to settle here will reap the savings. The property tax is incredibly low, and the median home price is under $234,000. Renting is even more affordable, if you don’t want to settle down permanently; the median monthly rent is just $1,090.

Best Places to Live in Alaska Near the Coast

Fairbanks is a stunning place to live, but it’s far from the Alaskan coast (but much closer to the mountains of Denali!). If you’re looking for coastal Alaskan living, consider making one of these cities your home instead:

Sitka sits outside the Inside Passage, truly on the Gulf of Alaska. That makes it the perfect coastal spot for boating, surfing, snorkeling, kayaking, and even dolphin and whale watching. If you’re an outdoor water enthusiast, Sitka should be high on your list.

Housing Affordability: Housing in Sitka is expensive. The median home price is almost $368,000. Renters face more moderate prices — a monthly median rent of $1,232.

Kenai is located at the end of the Kenai River, where it empties into the Cook Inlet. That makes Kenai a water-lover’s paradise. Kenai Beach is stunning, with ancient rock formations and even camping in the summer months.

Housing Affordability: Kenai is more affordable than Sitka, with a median home price just over $233,000. Rent is also lower at around $1,090, but keep in mind that Kenai is three hours from the nearest airport.

3. Anchorage

Anchorage sits at the end of the Cook Inlet, right where it forks into two arms. If you want easy access to the coast but don’t want to give up the perks of big-city living — restaurants, breweries, shopping, museums, and more — then Anchorage is the spot for you.

Housing Affordability: Living in Anchorage has its perks, but you’ll pay for those. The median cost of rent is $1,350, and the median home price is more than $325,000.

Juneau isn’t on a true ocean coast, given that it’s part of the Inside Passage. But that doesn’t mean you’ll miss out on beautiful water views. Cruise ships roll in daily, and you’ll have the added bonus of dramatic mountainous landscapes here.

Housing Affordability : Median home prices in Juneau reach nearly $360,000, making this inaccessible for many potential home buyers. Rent is a little more digestible at $1,319 a month.

The small town of Homer is remote and sparsely populated, but it has some of the most jaw-dropping coastal views in all of Alaska. Located near the tip of the Kenai Peninsula, Homer offers easy access to both the Cook Inlet and Kachemak Bay. There are plenty of water sports to be found here, if you’re the adventurous type.

Housing Affordability: Homer is moderately affordable, as far as Alaska goes. Rental prices are lower at $1,136 a month, but the median home price is nearly $310,000, partially because the town is so remote.

The Takeaway

Ready to start your long-term Alaskan adventure? Before moving to Alaska, think long and hard about your budget, the climate, and what amenities you want easy access to. Some of Alaska’s most beautiful places are the hardest to reach, with the most extreme temperatures. Larger cities offer more shopping and cultural events, but may not have the same remote Alaskan feel.

This article originally appeared on  SoFi.com  and was syndicated by  MediaFeed.org .

*SoFi requires Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) for conforming home loans with a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio greater than 80%. As little as 3% down payments are for qualifying first-time homebuyers only. 5% minimum applies to other borrowers. Other loan types may require different fees or insurance (e.g., VA funding fee, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums, etc.). Loan requirements may vary depending on your down payment amount, and minimum down payment varies by loan type.

SoFi Loan ProductsSoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A.,  NMLS #696891  Opens A New Window. (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see  SoFi. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi MortgagesTerms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See  SoFi. for more information.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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143 Fascinating Facts About Anchorage, Alaska That Will Surprise You

Fun Facts About Anchorage, Alaska

Historical facts about anchorage, alaska, facts about anchorage's population, facts about anchorage's economy.

Being the northernmost city in the United States, there are about 100,000 Anchorage residents here.

Around 1915, the city of Anchorage was just a colony of tents put up together as remote houses for those workers who worked on the Alaska Railroad. The workers called Anchorage 'The White City,' although it hardly had any resemblance to the original 'white city' which is Chicago!

Anchorage might look like a gray and boring city at first sight but this largest city in Alaska has so many interesting things for you to discover that will take you by surprise! This phenomenal city in Alaska covers roughly about 2,000 sq.

mi (5180 sq. km), which is larger than the entire state of Rhode Island!

Anchorage is well-known and popular amongst tourists all over the world for its glaciers, trails, and wildlife. On a clear day, you can easily spot some mountain ranges from Anchorage the Alaska, Aleutian, Mount Mckinley, Kenai, and Chugach.

Some animals that are common to the wildlife of urban Anchorage are beavers, foxes, moose, wolves, and bears. In fact, it is impossible to not notice a traffic sign for a moose crossing the road.

The tallest building in Alaska is in fact found in downtown Anchorage which is the Conoco-Phillips Building. Downtown Anchorage also houses the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts which hosts many performing arts events every year.

Known as Alaska's cultural soul, it is the prime place to visit if you are looking to explore some fascinating details on the Alaska Native cultures as well and the Anchorage Museum of History and Art is a must-see! Around 1947, Congress made plans to shift Alaska's capital from Juneau to Anchorage.

However, the voters were not ready to fund the construction of a capitol building so the shift never took place.

This city contains a great number of unique, diverse, and distinct cultures that consist of traditions that have existed since long ago. The major industries you can find in this amazing city are government and military, tourism, and petroleum.

Many historical documentation and citings have stated that it was James Cook, an English explorer, who first explored and described the Anchorage area around 1778 when he was looking for some sort of 'Northwest Passage' that led to Prince William Sound.

Anchorage sits on a triangular peninsula enclosed by the Cook Inlet, which is believed to be the northernmost part of the Pacific Ocean. Another mind-blowing fact about this city is its unusual name.

In the '10s, Anchorage, as it is known now, was first called Ship Creek and Knik Anchorage by settlers.

Ship Creek during the summers is filled with plenty of King and silver salmon, attracting many anglers to one of the world's largest salmon fisheries. In the Anchorage School District, there are about 100 languages being spoken approximately!

Alaska is always known for its cold climate and weather but Anchorage is slightly different.

Being close to the ocean influences Anchorage's weather conditions by keeping the winter temperature at around a 68 degrees F (20 degrees C) mark. The coldest temperature that Anchorage has seen was 38 degrees F below zero (-38.9 degrees C) in the February of 1947.

Anchorage was also the US candidate for the popular Winter Olympics that were held in 1992 and 1994!

It was the only period when this sports event took place with a brief gap of two years. Anchorage is a city where its residents enjoy life without the burden of sales tax-making it amazing for visitors and tourists to pick up plenty of souvenirs.

Believe it or not, the famous film 'The Frozen Ground' was shot in Anchorage, Alaska, and stars famous actors like Nicholas Cage, John Cusack, and Vanessa Hudgens!

If you enjoy these awesome facts on Anchorage in Alaska, be sure to check out our other articles on facts about Augusta Maine , and facts about Baltimore Maryland that you are sure to enjoy!

The name Alaska comes from 'Alyeska', an Aleut word which means 'The Great Land'! The coastal city of Anchorage which used to be under a glacier many years ago is located today at the head of Cook Inlet in Alaska.

The Cook Inlet is the northernmost reach of the Pacific Ocean.

The earliest and original habitants of Anchorage was a tribe of Athabascans and they were believed to have lived in the area for a period of about 1000 years approximately. Furthermore, Sir Captain James Cook was the first to discover and explore the land in 1778!

Unlike other states in the US, Anchorage is a city that is located farther up north than Helsinki and this city also has short days during the winter.

Anchorage used to first be the site for a railroad construction group and proper settlement began in 1914. It is now the largest city in the state of Alaska.

A clear day in Anchorage will give you a clear view of six well mountain ranges which are Talkeetna, Chugach, Kenai, Mount Mckinley, Aleutian, The Alaska, and Tordillo. Anchorage is popular for having the busiest seaplane base in the world, having more than 1,500 takeoffs and landings!

Anchorage's economy is largely dependent on industries like travel and tourism, government and military, and oil companies too.

The most famous local in Anchorage is none other than the local reindeer and moose. A resident of Anchorage can also blame being late to work on a moose as it is that common for a moose to be spotted in the Anchorage area!

Anchorage has always had an interesting line of historical events.

Anchorage stretches over 20,000 sq. mi (51799.76 sq.

km) and is bigger in size when compared to Rhode Island.

It was initially located on the territorial land that first belonged to Russia and now it is the youngest city in the United States of America plus the largest city in the state of Alaska! The original inhabitants, as mentioned earlier, were members of the Athabascan tribe who were called the Dena'ina.

Therefore, since Anchorage's area originally belonged to the Russians, you can still find Russian influences in the traditions cultures, and languages that are spoken in Anchorage.

Discovered by the famous British explorer James Cook in 1778, the narrow fjord found at the north of Anchorage called Turnagain Arm was named so by Cook out of irritation when he tried to find a passage that would lead him back to Prince William Sound but only came across a river instead.

In 1915, Anchorage slowly started to become inhabited with its first settlers who were railway construction workers on the Alaska Railroad.

This small settlement that lived in a house tent didn't have any name at first.

However, the US post that was set up here was named 'Anchorage' and hence, this name has stuck ever since! Later down the line as more people came and resided here, they began to call Anchorage's area the 'White City' although it bore almost no resemblance to the original White City which is Chicago.

You'd be surprised to also learn that Anchorage saw its first hospital being built in 1937 and until then people used to travel for a number of hours to get to the nearest hospital possible for medical treatment!

Anchorage has seen a massive increase in the population trend throughout history and especially in recent years.

As of 2020, the number of residents in Anchorage is 291,000 becoming Alaska's most populous city and constituting about 40% of the total population in Alaska. Statistical research has further indicated that between the period of 1970 and 1980, Anchorage's population increased by almost 260% which is roughly around 130,000 residents.

Two specific events took place that were responsible for this population boom.

The first event was the discovery of oil which happened in 1968 at the Prudhoe Bay oil fields in Alaska's North Slope and the second event was increasing the oil prices in 1973 and 1979 which was done by the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries or OPEC.

This not only led to a hike in the inflow of people in Anchorage but also rapid growth of oil production.

The government of Alaska went on to spend the revenues received on the development of infrastructure and service sectors which in turn created lots of job opportunities. Therefore, people flocked into this city in large numbers causing a rise in Anchorage's native population.

Anchorage is also known for its amazing healthcare facilities which have led to a significant decline in death rates and the city also has no sales tax imposed on the consumption of goods and services by the people, further attributing to why Anchorage is so populated.

Anchorage has always been a city that's quaint, peaceful, and lively, all at the same time! People are hardly in conflict with one another, because of which they experience low crime rates.

Anchorage is also a scenic beauty that garners the attention of many travelers all over the world and there are countless things to admire when you visit this splendid city.

The largest city of Alaska has its economy built on a great foundation of revenue and gains that come from investing in the development of the travel and tourism sector, service sectors, government, and military sectors, and oil production sectors, and even the healthcare sectors.

Anchorage's economy has seen a stable growth each year of about 2% and Anchorage represents 47% of the total employment opportunities available in the entire state of Alaska.

With that being said, the highest paid jobs in Anchorage are health diagnosing, law, engineering, and architecture.

Alaska is the only state in America that does not levy any sales on the goods and services consumed by the locals and there is also no individual income tax no matter the personal income of the particular resident.

With the hit of the Coronavirus pandemic that put the world on a halt, Anchorage saw some major job losses and the availability of employment opportunities began to fall.

Even tourism, which brought in great revenue for the city saw a big decline.

Nonetheless, the spring of 2021 has once again seen a steady rise in these areas and its former glory is being restored yet again!

City reports and the government of Anchorage have also made it a goal to bring about 4,000 jobs by the end of 2021 and around 12,000 jobs by 2024, a plan that Anchorage can easily achieve.

Here at Kidadl , we have carefully created lots of interesting family facts for everyone to enjoy! If you liked our suggestions for 143 fascinating facts about Anchorage, Alaska that will surprise you, then why not take a look at facts about Charleston St. and facts about Cheyenne, Wyoming that you are going to love for sure!

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Bachelor of Science specializing in Human Anatomy

Joan Agie Bachelor of Science specializing in Human Anatomy

With 3+ years of research and content writing experience across several niches, especially on education, technology, and business topics. Joan holds a Bachelor’s degree in Human Anatomy from the Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria, and has worked as a researcher and writer for organizations across Nigeria, the US, the UK, and Germany. Joan enjoys meditation, watching movies, and learning new languages in her free time.

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2) At Kidadl, we strive to recommend the very best activities and events. We will always aim to give you accurate information at the date of publication - however, information does change, so it’s important you do your own research, double-check and make the decision that is right for your family. We recognise that not all activities and ideas are appropriate for all children and families or in all circumstances. Our recommended activities are based on age but these are a guide. We recommend that these ideas are used as inspiration, that ideas are undertaken with appropriate adult supervision, and that each adult uses their own discretion and knowledge of their children to consider the safety and suitability. Kidadl cannot accept liability for the execution of these ideas, and parental supervision is advised at all times, as safety is paramount. Anyone using the information provided by Kidadl does so at their own risk and we can not accept liability if things go wrong.

3) Because we are an educational resource, we have quotes and facts about a range of historical and modern figures. We do not endorse the actions of or rhetoric of all the people included in these collections, but we think they are important for growing minds to learn about under the guidance of parents or guardians.

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• Solar Eclipse 2024

See How the Solar Eclipse Will Look Anywhere in America

Today's total solar eclipse will cut a 2,000-mile path across the United States in just over an hour, casting near darkness over a region of more than 200,000 square miles from Texas to Maine. The rest of the continental United States — plus Hawaii and a spot of southern Alaska — will enjoy a consolation prize of partial occlusion. The following interactive simulates what this will look like from any location in the U.S., no special glasses needed .

This eclipse is the second time in seven years that such an astronomical rarity has favored a large part of the nation. The August 2017 total solar eclipse — for which TIME rented a private four-seat plane to document the phenomenon — cut a mirroring path from Oregon to South Carolina.

This means there is 9,286 square-mile quadrangle centered on southern Illinois that the cosmos has favored with two complete solar eclipses in less than a decade. As astrophysical odds go, one envies the residents of this anointed parallelogram.

How the simulation works

TIME's solar eclipse simulation uses coordinates for the sun, Earth, and moon from NASA's industrial-grade SPICE toolkit , which we calculated in the J2000 reference frame centered on the Earth. (Many modern calculations use this pre-Copernican view of the cosmos as a matter of convenience.)

Rather than calculating the exact moment that the eclipse begins and ends for thousands of locations, our simulation uses these coordinates to create a realtime 3D simulation with the same type of computer programming that is common in video games. This includes rotating the viewer's camera in accordance with the Earth's rotation over the course of the eclipse, which accounts for why the moon appears to cut a curved path across the sky.

We took a few small artistic liberties in moderately exaggerating the degree of darkness one witnesses in a partial eclipse by adding a faint ambient light to see the surface of the moon in better detail.

Where the times you see in this simulation differ from other sources of eclipse data by a minute or two, the discrepancy is most likely a small difference in the precise location of the calculation or a slightly different way of accounting for the time it takes the speed of light to travel from the sun to the Earth.

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Solar eclipse 2024: Follow the path of totality

Solar eclipse, here's what time the eclipse will be visible in your region.

Emily Alfin Johnson

Visitors look through a pair of oversized eclipse glasses set up in the town square on Sunday in Houlton, Maine. Joe Raedle/Getty Images hide caption

Visitors look through a pair of oversized eclipse glasses set up in the town square on Sunday in Houlton, Maine.

On Monday, a solar eclipse will cross from Texas to Maine, putting over 30 million people in the path of totality , with a partial eclipse visible briefly for millions more.

Monday's weather forecast for the path of totality

Totality in the U.S. starts around 1:30 p.m. CT/2:30 ET and continues until 2:30 p.m. CT/3:30 p.m. ET, lasting for a few minutes in each location.

The folks at NASA have a detailed breakdown for anyone in the U.S. Just pop in your ZIP code .

If you're lucky enough to find yourself in the path of totality, you can also find a minute-by-minute breakdown of when totality begins in your area, here.

More resources to enjoy the eclipse

• Sharing the eclipse with tiny humans?  Check out these  kid-friendly total solar eclipse learning guides  from Vermont Public's  But Why,  and this great explainer from KERA Kids on  the difference between a solar and a lunar eclipse .
• Feeling whimsical?  Here are three ways to  sprinkle a little magic into your eclipse experience .
• Plan to wander into the wild for the best view?   Here are some tips from outdoor experts.
• Tips from Bill Nye  on the best ways to enjoy the eclipse.

NPR will be sharing highlights here from across the NPR Network throughout the day Monday if you're unable to get out and see it in real time.

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5 Amazing (but Hidden) Spots Near Anchorage

Harriman? Eklutna? If you're visiting Alaska, names like Denali are familiar (as they should be). Alaskans know these five hidden spots near Anchorage well. You may not know them now, but you ought to! Their names are unfamiliar, but the sights are unforgettable.

Harriman Fjord

With more than a dozen glaciers named after Ivy League colleges, College Fjord in Prince William Sound gets a lot of attention. But nearby Harriman Fjord, an unassuming offshoot, is home to some amazing tidewater glaciers of its own, and they almost weren’t discovered. After all, Surprise Glacier got its name when the Harriman Expedition sailed through a narrow passage and discovered the massive glacier on the far side. To relive the expedition's sense of adventure, book a glacier cruise out of Whittier and get you own surprise.

Eklutna Historical Park

The community of Eklutna is the oldest inhabited location in the Anchorage Bowl. Eklutna was originally a Dena’ina Athabascan village. When Russian Orthodox missionaries arrived in the 1840's, the melding of Orthodox Christianity and native practices resulted in brightly colored spirit houses seen at the Eklutna cemetery. Nearby is Eklutna Lake, a popular recreation area for hiking, biking, canoeing, kayaking, picnicking and camping. The bluish-green lake is fed by Eklutna Glacier – a primary source of water for the city of Anchorage.

Lake George

This secluded lake deep in the Chugach Mountains is a prime place to explore glacier from the air. Three large glaciers - Lake George, Colony and Knik - are clustered around the lake. Flightseeing tours from Anchorage's Merrill Field and Lake Hood, and Girdwood's airfield pay a visit to the area. Many helicopter tours touch down atop the glaciers themselves, and float planes are well-equipped to use Lake George as a runway as well.

McHugh Creek

This picturesque forested stream is hidden in plain sight. Drive down the Seward Highway along Turnagain Arm, and you might be tempted to whizz right past this trailhead. But even a short walk leads to a serene scene; a pedestrian bridge over the creek, and a great hike beyond.

Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop

The train pulls away, and the Spencer Glacier area is yours for the day. The Alaska Railroad is the only way to access this special place in Alaska (unless you happen to own a helicopter). Spend the day rafting, ice hiking or just strolling the lake in full view of Spencer Glacier.

Places to Stay

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Itineraries

Visit anchorage.

Visit Anchorage is the official source for Anchorage, Alaska and Southcentral Alaska travel information.

What time is the 2024 solar eclipse? Here's when you should look up in your area

On Monday, April 8, the sky will momentarily darken for millions of Americans in the path of totality during the 2024 solar eclipse .

This is the first total solar eclipse to pass through North America in seven years, and the next one will not be seen from the contiguous U.S. until Aug. 23, 2044 , according to NASA .

The exact time the solar eclipse will occur will vary, depending on the state and the time zone. And of course, eclipse visibility will also be dependent on Monday's weather .

Whether you're experiencing the path of totality from home or traveling to witness it in person, here's what to expect for the exact eclipse time.

Solar eclipse 2024 live updates: See latest weather forecast, what time it hits your area

What time is the 2024 solar eclipse?

The eclipse will begin in Mexico at about 11:07 a.m. PDT, Monday, April 8 before crossing into Texas at 1:27 p.m. CDT. It will end in Maine at 3:35 p.m. EDT. Even if you're not in the path of totality and won't see the full eclipse, you may still see a percentage of it.

To find out exactly when the eclipse will be happening in your area, you can search by USA TODAY's database by zip code for a viewing guide.

Even if you still see a fraction of the eclipse, you can use the database to search the time, duration, peak and percentage in your area.

Here are the major cities in each state where you can expect to experience totality in the United States (note that the included times do not account for when the partial eclipse begins and ends):

• Dallas, Texas: 1:40-1:44 p.m. CDT
• Idabel, Oklahoma: 1:45-1:49 p.m. CDT
• Little Rock, Arkansas: 1:51-1:54 p.m. CDT
• Poplar Bluff, Missouri: 1:56-2:00 p.m. CDT
• Paducah, Kentucky: 2-2:02 p.m. CDT
• Carbondale, Illinois: 1:59-2:03 p.m. CDT
• Evansville, Indiana: 2:02-2:05 p.m. CDT
• Cleveland, Ohio: 3:13-3:17 p.m. EDT
• Erie, Pennsylvania: 3:16-3:20 p.m. EDT
• Buffalo, New York: 3:18-3:22 p.m. EDT
• Burlington, Vermont: 3:26-3:29 p.m. EDT
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: 3:27-3:30 p.m. EDT
• Caribou, Maine: 3:32-3:34 p.m. EDT

Where is the 2024 total solar eclipse?

The eclipse begins in Mexico , and then crosses over into the U.S. through Texas. From there, the path of totality, which is approximately 115 miles wide, extends northeast, crossing through 13 states. In the U.S., totality will end in Maine, but the eclipse will eventually enter the maritime provinces of Canada.

Other major cities along the eclipse's path of totality include San Antonio and Austin, Texas; Indianapolis; and Rochester and Syracuse, New York.

Contributing: Eric Lagatta, Ramon Padilla and Karina Zaiets, USA TODAY.