Anchorage skyline on a clear summer day.

Anchorage Alaska

The epicenter of adventure in Alaska.

Vibrant flowers in Anchorage's walkable downtown.

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Alaska Railroad Anchorage

FAQs & Advice

Although many travelers in Alaska will pass through Anchorage, the state's largest city has humble roots. The site was originally chosen as the headquarters for the construction of the Alaska Railroad . Thousands of workers employed by the railroad congregated in a hastily built tent city on the banks of Ship Creek. As for the city's name, it has a similarly no-frills origin. In lieu of a better option, the post office began using Anchorage, literally "port," as the place name.

By the time the railroad was complete in 1923, the Anchorage town center had moved onto a bluff overlooking Ship Creek. From there it spread, seeing population booms during World War II and after the discovery of oil on Alaska's North Slope. Today the city is a major transportation hub for both air travel from out of state and bush plane travel within it. The Anchorage area is home to nearly half of Alaska's residents, along with some 300 moose, 250 black bears, and 60 brown bears.

Don't let Anchorage's city feel fool you, the big wilds of Alaska are close by. The city is bordered to the east by the peaks of Chugach State Park and to the south by the Turnagain Arm, a tumultuously beautiful waterway that sees the tide change up to 40 feet on a given day. Keep reading for expert Anchorage advice on where to stay , things to do , and how to get around .

As a bustling city with a love for the outdoors, Anchorage is full of interest for active travelers. Take a bike ride on the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, or check out the extensive hiking trail system east of downtown in the Chugach Mountains. Cultural enthusiasts will find much to learn at the Anchorage Museum and the Alaska Native Heritage Center. There are plentiful city-wide farmers markets in the summertime, plus many local restaurants, bars, galleries, and gift shops to explore.

Local tour operators offer a variety of guided trips that range from private day tours to brewery excursions to glacier walks . Anchorage is also home to the largest float plane base in the world, so fly-in bear viewing tours and fishing charters make for especially memorable day trips. Check out our Things to Do in Anchorage page for more ideas.

Anchorage offers a broad selection of hotels concentrated near the airport or downtown, two areas roughly six miles apart. For travelers seeking an airport hotel, we recommend the Lakefront Anchorage Hotel . Closer to downtown, the convenient Wingate by Wyndham is a good choice for visitors who'll be traveling by train . We typically recommend staying one night in Anchorage, preferably at the beginning or end of your trip. During the summer months, hotel rooms book up quickly, so make your reservations with us well in advance. Check out our Anchorage lodging page for a complete list of options.

Anchorage is served by several national airlines, with Alaska Airlines offering the widest selection of flights both in state and connecting to the continental United States. The Alaska Railroad offers daily summer service to Seward, Talkeetna, Denali National Park, and Fairbanks. The Park Connection Motorcoach connects to the same towns (excluding Fairbanks). Rental cars are available from several companies at or near the Anchorage airport. Check out our Anchorage transportation page for more information.

Anchorage Lodging

From lakeside accommodations to downtown rooms within walking distance of major attractions, Anchorage offers an overnight option for every budget. Learn More >

As the state's largest city, Anchorage offers activities for every visitor. World-class museums, historical sites, and miles of trails await. Learn More >

A major transportation hub for Alaska, in Anchorage visitors can easily coordinate travel by air, rail, motorcoach, and car. Learn More >

Anchorage Tips, Advice & FAQs

What's there to do in Anchorage? Where should I stay? Find quick answer to these commonly asked questions and more. Learn More >

Anchorage Map

Get the lay of the land in Anchorage, Alaska's largest city and main travel hub. Anchorage is in Southcentral Alaska. Learn More >

Anchorage Restaurants

Mingle with locals at Moose's Tooth, sip a martini at Simon's, try the fresh halibut specials at Glacier Brewhouse. Check out the Anchorage eats we most often recommend. Learn More >

As the original headquarters of the Alaska Railroad, Anchorage is the center of train travel in Alaska. All train routes depart from its downtown depot. Learn More >

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Experience the wonders of Alaska in a single trip to Anchorage

Ashley Onadele

As the U.S. continues to recover from the coronavirus pandemic, Alaska has become a popular domestic destination for travelers who want to remain within the United States but still experience a new, unique destination. Although well-known for its still mostly-untouched and undeveloped landscape, Alaska — in particular its most populous city of Anchorage — is the perfect mix of urban and outdoors. From families to adventure seekers and anyone in between, Anchorage has something for every traveler.

Though not the capital, Anchorage is the largest city in the 49th state and is the perfect place to drop a pin and explore all of what Alaska has to offer. Anchorage prides itself on being the best, all-in-one destination in Alaska, giving you both the natural wonders of the state alongside the luxuries of a bigger city.

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If history and culture, great food, and one-of-a-kind outdoor experiences are on your list, you can find it all in Anchorage, Alaska.

Related: Yes, you can cruise to Alaska this year — here's how

Explore Alaskan culture

A great way to begin any trip in a new city is to visit a museum — and Anchorage has a plethora from which to choose (17, to be exact). Begin your visit to Anchorage with a stop at the Alaska Native Heritage Center or the Anchorage Museum — where you can learn the history and culture of Alaska's native population. Other museums — like the Alaska Museum of Science and Nature — explore the state's natural history, including exhibits featuring dinosaurs, bears, whales and animal fossils.

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To help orient visitors to the city, Anchorage Trolley Tours offer a 15-mile guided tour of Anchorage. As an accessible option to those in wheelchairs or other mobility devices , the trolley tour takes you through Anchorage's history using engaging narration and family stories — all while hoping for a glimpse of an urban-dwelling moose.

Related: These are the best times to visit Alaska

Visitors can also rent a car and take Hatcher Pass Road up the Talkeetna Mountains to Independence Mine State Historical Park, a former gold-mining site. Learn about the mine — which was in operation from 1938 to 1950 — on a walking tour that explores its still-standing buildings. The 90-minute drive from Anchorage makes for an easy day trip.

Enjoy traditional Alaska cuisine

For those that prefer to discover a new destination through its food, Anchorage is a premier location to showcase Alaska's own unique culinary traditions as well.

Fresh seafood is plentiful along the Alaska coast, so fish like salmon and halibut can be found on almost any restaurant menu. But an item that might surprise you — or not, if you've visited Scandinavia in the past — is reindeer sausage. Food trucks and restaurants alike serve this local delicacy, with the option to make it spicy and with a variety of interesting toppings — such as Coca-Cola-glazed onions.

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Spruce tips — small green buds from the ends of branches with a flavor similar to pine — can be found on both your dinner plate and in your craft brews. Historically only consumed by foragers, spruce tips pair with the finest Alaska water to form the secret to Alaska's beer.

Speaking of beer, Anchorage has lots of breweries — many of which can be found on the menus of local restaurants. Visitors can even tour the local operations and sample the city's best craft beers. And if you prefer wine or other spirits instead, you'll find that Anchorage's wineries and distilleries have something you won't find anywhere else — locally-sourced ingredients like Delta Junction barley and Matanuska Valley wheat. Be sure to sample the varietals found in Anchorage — and take a bottle or two home as souvenirs.

Spend time in the truly great outdoors

Most would agree that Alaska's landscape — with glaciers, wildlife, scenic drives and more — is absolutely beautiful. So it goes without saying that no visit to the state would be complete without spending some quality time in the great outdoors. And despite the urban feel of Anchorage, plenty of natural beauty is nearby.

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National parks

Alaska is home to the most national park land in the United States, and Anchorage is a perfect jumping-off point to five out of the 17 national parks in the state. The most widely-known is Denali National Park, home to America's tallest peak (Denali), but Kenai Fjords National Park, Lake Clark National Park and Katmai National Park all provide visitors with unrivaled animal spotting and hiking trails — and each one is near Anchorage.

Meanwhile, Wrangell-Saint Elias National Park — with glaciers larger than the state of Rhode Island — is the nation's largest national park and within several hours of Anchorage, depending on mode of transportation.

The Chugach Mountains

The Chugach Mountains serve as the backdrop for Anchorage's skyline and are situated in the most accessible natural area in all of Alaska. You can reach some of the mountain's trails by car in just 20 minutes from downtown Anchorage. Flattop Mountain is the most accessible, with trails for every hiking level. There is also a short but paved 0.3-mile hike that loops around and is wheelchair accessible. Alternatively, to experience the area's beauty without breaking a sweat, you could drive to the top of the mountain and enjoy a view of all of Anchorage.

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Glaciers can be seen throughout the year, and Alaska boasts over 100,000 across the state. However, be specific when inquiring about how to visit one — there are 60 within 50 miles of Anchorage. Spend anywhere from one hour to a full day spotting glaciers in places like Prince William Sound in and around Anchorage. Portage Glacier is one of the easiest glaciers to reach in the entire state, situated just 60 minutes south of Anchorage. Usually seen by boat, there is also an option to visit this glacier by foot on a family-friendly trail that covers two miles (four miles round-trip).

Wild animal spotting

Anchorage is in the perfect location for seeing some of Alaska's most sought-after animals. Urban moose are easily seen in city parks and even the backyards of some lucky residents. You can book a ticket on a regularly-scheduled boat tour for whale watching or join a sightseeing or helicopter excursion to see bears fishing nearby. Adults and kids of all ages would get a kick out of seeing animals in their natural habitats, and all of Alaska's most majestic animals can be found in or near the city of Anchorage.

Other outdoor activities

If you're traveling to Anchorage in the winter months, you can try your hand at snowmobiling and hopefully catch a view of the northern lights. If you're visiting in the summer months, be sure to join popular excursions like flightseeing and railroad tours. And while dog-sledding is a quintessential winter activity, you can even enjoy it in the summer months as well.

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Related: A beginner's guide to visiting Alaska's Glacier Bay National Park and Reserve

Something for everyone

The array of activities in and around Anchorage means that the city has something to offer all kinds of travelers — whether it's a road warrior seeking a nice spot for a business dinner, a family looking for kid-friendly items or a traveler with limited mobility that wants to enjoy a visit to Alaska.

Accessibility in Anchorage

Though Anchorage is an outdoor destination, it remains the most accessible way to experience Alaska. Anchorage Trolley Tours (mentioned earlier) allow visitors of all abilities to enjoy a guided history tour, while the Alaska Railroad offers several day trips from Anchorage's train depot. And Flattop Mountain is wheelchair accessible with a paved trail that offers views of the entire city. Animal and glacier spotting can be easily done by joining either a helicopter or guided tour from Anchorage.

Family-friendly Anchorage

There are plenty of activities for young travelers in Anchorage as well. There are dozens of wildlife tours and hiking trails for travelers of all activity levels. And if the thought of searching for Alaska's animals in the wild is too daunting, you can catch them all at the Alaska Zoo or Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.

Kids can supplement their science classes with a visit to the Alaska Museum of Science and Nature or learn about the history of flight at the Alaska Aviation Museum. Alternatively, for a first-hand gold-mining experience in nearby Girdwood, visit Crow Creek Historic Gold Mine — which is also home to some of the area's oldest buildings.

There are also several day trips by train or boat from Anchorage where a family can explore nearby towns, spot bears and other animals, and see glaciers. And with five national parks that border Anchorage, you can find a plethora of ways to keep the entire family occupied.

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Use points and miles to visit Anchorage

Fortunately, you have many options to get to Alaska — especially this summer — including the opportunity to redeem your hard-earned points and miles. There are direct flights to Anchorage (ANC) from over a dozen cities within the United States, including Seattle (SEA), Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), Houston (IAH), Chicago-O'Hare (ORD), New York-JFK and Atlanta (ATL). All the major U.S. airlines operate nonstop flights to Anchorage — including Alaska Airlines, American, United and Delta.

As far as accommodations, there are plenty of points hotels available from IHG Rewards, Hilton Honors, World of Hyatt and Marriott. If you want to stay downtown for proximity to shopping and restaurants, the Hilton Anchorage starts at 50,000 points per night. There are also several Category 4 and 5 Marriott properties in the area — starting at 17,500 Bonvoy points per night.

There are three IHG properties located in Anchorage, with redemptions starting at 17,500 IHG points per night. However, these numbers are subject to change based on demand thanks to the program's dynamic pricing model .

Finally, the World of Hyatt has a pair of properties in Anchorage — a Hyatt House and a Hyatt Place — both with redemption rates of 12,000 World of Hyatt points per night (making them a great spot to use a Hyatt free-night certificate ).

Related: Everything you need to know about booking a trip to Alaska on points

Bottom line

Alaska is a desirable destination for travelers who are ready to return to travel but want to remain in the United States — and enjoy many activities that naturally encourage social distancing. And Anchorage, Alaska's most populous city, is the best location to experience all of what the state has to offer in a single trip. With nonstop service on every major airline from over a dozen cities, it is easier than ever to travel to Anchorage.

Visitors have no shortage of options to learn about Alaska's native heritage and natural history, while Alaska delicacies like reindeer sausage are sure to delight your taste buds and are an exciting way to experience Anchorage. And when you add in the prevalence of outdoor activities in and around the city, Anchorage is the ideal city to visit to get the most out of your trip to the 49th state.

Anchorage   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Blue Poppy | Getty Images

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Popular Tours

Anchorage Wilderness Wildlife Glacier Experience

Anchorage Wilderness Wildlife Glacier Experience

(1942 reviews)

from $ 199.00

Full-Day Matanuska Glacier Hike And Tour

Full-Day Matanuska Glacier Hike And Tour

(77 reviews)

from $ 310.00

Matanuska Glacier Hike Day Tour

Matanuska Glacier Hike Day Tour

(246 reviews)

from $ 299.00

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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

(204 reviews)

from $ 719.97

26 Glacier Cruise and Coach from Anchorage, AK

26 Glacier Cruise and Coach from Anchorage, AK

(190 reviews)

from $ 317.12

Seward to Anchorage- Post Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour +Transfer

Seward to Anchorage- Post Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour + Transfer

(15 reviews)

from $ 197.00

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Anchorage Aurora Quest - Northern Lights Photo Tour

(104 reviews)

from $ 295.00

Anchorage Northern Lights Tour

Anchorage Northern Lights Tour

(66 reviews)

from $ 303.85

Year Round Glacier View & Wildlife Anchorage Adventure Tour

Year Round Glacier View & Wildlife Anchorage Adventure Tour

(29 reviews)

from $ 157.00

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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.

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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.

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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. 

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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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Anchorage Guide: Planning Your Trip

Anchorage is a multifaceted city at the gateway to Alaska’s most visited destinations . Centrally perched in the nation’s least densely populated state , Anchorage offers the best blend of urban and natural appeal to the leisure traveler. While at times it can feel similar to any medium-sized American city, it’s an incredibly diverse, cosmopolitan community with no shortage of spectacular scenery and things to do. From the best time to visit to foods to eat and places to stay, here's everything you need to know to plan your trip to Anchorage.

Planning Your Trip  

  • Best Time to Visit: Anchorage has year-round appeal, but the majority of visitors arrive between May and September. From June to August, visitors enjoy the endless light of the midnight sun, though travel during the peak summer season can be expensive and crowded. While average temps dip down into the low teens come winter , the city's community calendar is at its peak as residents find excuses to get out and fight cabin fever.
  • Language: English
  • Currency: U.S. Dollar
  • Getting Around: Visitors arriving on summer package tours will find most transportation included, and some operators run tours year-round—but for individual exploring in any season, a personal vehicle is essential. Anchorage does have a public bus, but routes are limited and large portions of the city aren’t well-served. It’s also not convenient for late-night arrivals at the airport.
  • Travel Tip: Accommodations book quickly for the summer season—reserve up to a year in advance for the best selection. Summer travelers should also pack a variety of clothing options, as weather can range from warm and sunny to cool and drizzly.

Things to Do 

Anchorage has a wealth of museums, attractions, and scenic vistas (the twin peaks of Denali and Mt. Foraker are often visible from Downtown Anchorage on a clear day). Summer visitors can plan full days that last well into the evening hours; it’s bright enough that golfers at Anchorage Golf Course can tee off as late as 10 p.m.!

Top things to do include:

  • Get a glimpse into 11 distinct native cultures at the Alaska Native Heritage Center , where you can experience dance performances and explore replicas of traditional village dwellings.
  • Learn about the history and art of Alaskans throughout history at the Anchorage Museum , which has one of the world’s largest collections of Northern art.
  • Take to the skies for a flightseeing tour of Denali, which is visible from Anchorage on a clear day, but truly breathtaking up close.

Explore more Anchorage activities with our articles on best things to do and best free activities .

What to Eat and Drink  

Anchorage is a city for seafood lovers. Salmon, halibut, cod, king crab, pollock, clams, and a host of other ocean bounty take up residence on menus throughout the city. Particularly popular is salmon from the Copper River basin, which is noted for being particularly fatty and flavorful because of their arduous journey up the river. Whether eaten fried from a paper basket or brilliantly plated in a gourmet restaurant, Alaska seafood is the crown jewel of Anchorage dining.

Anchorage’s diversity factors heavily into the city’s restaurant scene, and you can find everything from Korean and Indian to Hawaiian, Japanese, and Himalayan cuisine. The culinary scene here is another reason a personal vehicle is essential—many of the city’s best ethnic restaurants are tucked into neighborhoods like Midtown or Spenard, outside the downtown core.

Beer lovers will also find much to enjoy in Anchorage, with Alaska’s crystal-clear waters being the key ingredient to the variety of local brews. To say the city’s beer culture is dedicated is to put it mildly—Anchorage residents seem to spend a lot of time debating their personal beer picks or popping into their favorite brewery to top off their growlers. Ranging from small microbreweries to larger operations with restaurants serving expertly-paired regional dishes, a local brewery is a must-stop for any beer aficionado.

Where to Stay

Most global hotel chains operate in Anchorage. Many full-service brands have hotels in the supremely walkable downtown area, while all-suite and select service hotel brands are clustered around the airport and in the Midtown sprawl of strip malls, offices, and big box stores. Hotel rates fluctuate significantly between the summer and winter seasons, with rooms at some hotels costing up to three times more during the summer peak. There are also a few bed & breakfasts and vacation rentals scattered throughout the Anchorage Bowl, but the majority of visitors stay in hotels.

Getting There  

Alaska is a state with few roads—just 18 percent of the state’s communities are accessible by the road system . Anchorage itself has only two roads out of town: the Glenn Highway to the north (which ultimately connects to the Alaska Highway), and the Glenn Highway south to the Kenai Peninsula.

Visitors who aren't traveling from the nearby cruise port cities of Whittier or Seward will usually arrive by air at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport , a 10-minute drive from Downtown Anchorage. Anchorage is three-and-a-half hours from Seattle by air, and there are nonstop flights to many other cities in the continental United States during the summer season. There are also a handful of nonstop summer seasonal flights from Europe.

Because of the long travel times to and from destinations further than Seattle, many travelers will find themselves arriving in or departing Anchorage in the middle of the night—which can be one of the airport’s busiest times.

Culture and Customs

A U.S. state since 1959, Alaska isn’t markedly different from the rest of the United States, but there are a few points to remember.

“Alaska Native” or “Native Alaskan” means someone who is indigenous to Alaska. Native Alaskans are so ethnically and culturally diverse that there are four distinct, mutually unintelligible language groups across the state, and at least 20 distinct dialects within those groups . When referring to Indigenous Alaskans as a whole, “Alaska Native/Native Alaskan” is correct. Words like “Eskimo” and “Inuit” shouldn’t be used unless a speaker has identified themselves using those words (their use is often the subject of debate even within Indigenous communities that have used them in the past).

Anchorage and the surrounding area were historically inhabited by the Dena’ina Athabaskans , but Alaska Natives from throughout the state now reside in Anchorage. Native Alaskans from rural communities (often referred to as “The Bush” or “The Village”) are also frequent visitors to Anchorage for shopping, healthcare, or other business.

Visitors may observe residents fishing in streams and lakes around the city. While this may appear to be a casual, accessible activity, Alaska’s fisheries are some of the most closely managed in the world. A fishing license is required for all adults wishing to fish, and regulations on legal take and geographic limitations are extensive. It’s generally advisable for non-residents not to attempt fishing unless it's part of an organized excursion with guides who can ensure the catches are legal.

The U.S. outside of Alaska will often be referred to as “The Lower 48” or “Outside,” but never “The States."

The cosmopolitan nature of Anchorage is a source of civic pride. Many residents have lived outside of Alaska or have traveled extensively, and tend to bristle at suggestions that the city is remote or outside the mainstream.

Money Saving Tips 

  • May and September are the shoulder season for Anchorage—the weather will often be cooler, but many hotel and rental car rates will be somewhat lower. Rates are often at their lowest between October and April, although events such as the Fur Rendezvous and Iditarod Sled Dog Race (late February, early March) can boost off-season rates.
  • Hotel rates are expensive in the summer, and there are few ways around it. It’s important to keep in mind that the higher rates are because of extraordinary demand , not because the hotels are of extraordinary quality . When selecting accommodation, visitors with specific lodging expectations may wish to depend on past experiences with trusted hotel brands.
  • The city has a number of free parks and trails, including the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, Kincaid Park, the Delaney Park Strip, Spenard Beach Park, and Potter Marsh. Hiking at Alyeska Resort in Girdwood, south of Anchorage, is also free during the summer; the tramway will even bring hikers down from the summit free of charge.
  • There are several nature trails that have only a nominal parking fee, including the Eagle River Nature Center and Flattop Mountain Trail.
  • Anchorage’s museums are inexpensive (it’s rare for adult admission to be more than $15), but several are free. These include the Alaska Trooper Museum, the Alaska Public Lands Information Center, and the Alyeska Roundhouse Museum .

United States Census Bureau. "Historical Population Density Data (1910-2020)." April 26, 2021.

Visit Anchorage. "Weather." Retrieved on August 20, 2021.

Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities. "Welcome to the Division of Statewide Aviation." Retrieved on August 20, 2021.

Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development. "Alaska Native Language Preservation & Advisory Council." Retrieved on August 20, 2021.

Visit Anchorage. "The Dena'ina People." Retrieved on August 20, 2021.

Alaska Department of Fish and Game. "Sport Fishing Licenses, King Salmon Stamps, IDs, and Harvest Record Cards." Retrieved on August 23, 2021.

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About Visit Anchorage

Tourism generates social, cultural, and financial benefits for residents and diversifies and develops Anchorage's economy. Since 1975, Visit Anchorage - formerly the Anchorage Convention and Visitors Bureau - has represented the communities of Anchorage, Girdwood, Eagle River, Eklutna, Indian, Birchwood, Chugiak, and Portage before the traveling public, both in the U.S. and around the world. Visit Anchorage's mission: driving economic and social value for Anchorage residents, businesses, and visitors through tourism.

Visit Anchorage's long-term goals are organized in three categories:

Economic - Increase total annual revenues and profitability from tourism

  • Optimize visitor yield in summer by targeting more visitors with better experiences, longer stays, and investment
  • Improve seasonality with winter and shoulder season growth
  • Attract higher yield-visitors and channels
  • Increase awareness, interest, and action to visit Anchorage
  • Support improvement of visitor experiences, products, and infrastructure
  • Increase and improve labor availability

Social - Improve Anchorage livability and appreciation of tourism among residents

  • Support improvement in resident quality of life
  • Improve perception of tourism in the community
  • Increase government, industry, and resident confidence in tourism to support tourism direction

Environmental - Ensure natural assets are protected & sustained for locals and visitors to enjoy for generations to come

  • Increase tourism stakeholder environmental awareness
  • Infuse environmental considerations more comprehensively in key tourism programs

How Visit Anchorage Operates

Visit Anchorage marketing and promotions functions are funded by one-third of the Municipal bed tax collected by lodging facilities; one-third of the bed tax goes to the Municipality of Anchorage's general fund, and one-third to service the bond debt and operations of the Anchorage Convention Centers. In effect, visitors pay for future tourism marketing efforts, and the bed tax reinvests in Anchorage. View the  annual report .

Destination marketing is a very competitive business. Visit Anchorage's positioning of Anchorage keeps our city top-of-mind with the traveling public, infusing much-needed visitor industry dollars into our community. Visitor spending allows for year-round employment, generates revenue for many local businesses, and keeps our quality-of-life high by making it profitable for restaurants and entertainment options to remain open throughout the year. Discover more about the many ways  tourism works for Anchorage , and how Visit Anchorage works to balance travel and tourism to benefit people, place and prosperity .

History & Purpose

Discover the history and purpose of Visit Anchorage. Since 1975, the organization has attracted and served...

Staff Directory

Find a complete list of Visit Anchorage staff members and contact information for each.

Board of Directors

Meet the board of directors at the helm of Visit Anchorage. Drawn from all sectors of the Alaska visitor...

Departments

Read about the departmental organization of Visit Anchorage and what each does to build visitation and serve...

Tourism Pays for Anchorage

Anchorage tourism benefits residents and the community at large, not to mention local business. The gains...

Annual Report

Read Visit Anchorage's latest annual report, including a brief summary of the most recent calendar year,...

Sustainability Policy

Visit Anchorage is committed to protecting and improving the community by implementing sustainable practices...

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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.

8 Things To Know Before Your First Trip To Anchorage, Alaska

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I’ve lived my whole life dreaming of visiting Alaska… thinking of what it would be like, and building a bucket list. So when the opportunity came for me to make this trip a reality, I knew I needed to prepare. Coming to a state as vast as Alaska, I knew I wanted to take in as much as possible while exploring. That meant I needed to consider an accessible basecamp, COVID-19 safety protocols, ways to get around, and where I would get my Alaska seafood fix.

I found my home away from home in Anchorage . Situated right on the Cook Inlet, this urban oasis in the 49th state has become the central hub for visitors to Alaska. Choosing this metropolitan city in the middle of the wilderness was the perfect destination for my northern adventure.

Ptarmigan Portage Glacier in Anchorage, AK

You’re Close To Dozens Of Glaciers

If you have come to Alaska to see the glaciers , there are 60 within 50 miles of Anchorage. Your challenge will be to pick the one you want to see and then plan your day trip. The most accessible one to Anchorage, by Alaska standards, is the Portage Glacier; it is a short, fifty-mile scenic drive south. Once you arrive, you will be able to walk along the shore of Portage Lakeshore of Portage Lake and explore before you board the mv Ptarmigan for a narrated cruise to the face of the glacier. These cruises run from May 28 to September 6, five times a day. Reservations are recommended.

I am an adventurer at heart, and I wanted to hike a glacier. Something deep inside me wanted to see it up close, hear the sounds of the ice moving, and step with ice cleats across its face. In contrast to the Portage Glacier, which is south of Anchorage, the Matanuska Glacier is north of the city and is thirty miles further! However, the scenic drive was worth it! 

Hiking a glacier is not easy, and I recommend that you do your research before you go. Many outfits offer up-close experiences without the strenuous hike up to the face. Make reservations with one of the reputable companies that offer guided hikes or climbs.

Pro Tip: A drive to the Matanuska will take you a whole day. There are many pull-offs where you can take photos and see the glacier as you are driving there. Pack a picnic lunch to have on the way because there is not a lot in between. 

moose with two babies in Anchorage, AK

Wildlife Abounds

You don’t have to go far from Anchorage to see wildlife ; you actually might just find a moose or two right in the city! 

Moose are most likely to be seen in the mornings or evenings, and your best bet to see them in the urban areas is to watch for them munching in the neighborhood flowerbeds or at Kincaid Park, one of Anchorage’s largest recreation areas. 

If you’ve checked the moose off your animal viewing list, I am sure the next one you have on your Alaska checklist is trying to see a black or brown bear. Bear sightings are dependent on the time of year you come. Since bears hibernate in the winter, they are more frequently seen during summer months. While I kept my eyes open on my trip, one never crossed my path. I am already planning a return visit and plan to visit some of the recommended best places to see bears, including from the sky on a day trip to Katmai National Park or Lake Clark National Park, at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, or the Anchorage Zoo .

Northern Lights in Anchorage, AK

You Can See The Northern Lights

The aurora borealis — otherwise known as the northern lights — is a stunning demonstration of the Earth’s magnetic field interacting with charged particles from the sun. It’s beautiful and worth braving a cold night out when visiting.

If you want to see the northern lights , you will have to come sometime during the late summer months through early spring. The best time for an aurora vacation is during February or March when it is still plenty dark, but days are long enough for you to experience dog sledding, snowmobiling, and skiing. To maximize your chance of seeing this dazzling light show in the night sky, head to Glen Alps Trailhead or Point Woronzof .

sunset in Anchorage, AK

Plenty Of Daylight Hours (And Darkness, Too)

Summertime is one of the best times to visit Anchorage. Daylight hours are optimal during this season, and you will have the opportunity to experience everything this city has to offer. Mid-May to mid-September is considered peak travel; when temperatures reach the low 70s, the rivers teem with salmon, and viewing wildlife is at its prime. 

I loved the extended daylight hours; it gave me plenty of time to do the things I wanted. When returning from a day trip, I saw wildlife in the dusky evenings, and the colorful sunsets were worth staying up to experience. 

Pro Tip: You’ll want to consider the weather when planning your trip and pack accordingly; otherwise, you might find yourself shopping for the unexpected. Dress in layers when you leave for the day, keep it casual, and have proper footwear.

Denali National Park in Anchorage, AK

You’re Close To Five National Parks

Denali , Katmai , Kenai Fjords , Lake Clark , and Wrangell-Saint Elias national parks are all available from Anchorage either via rental car, passenger train, or flightseeing tour in a small plane. Each of these national parks offers something different and diverse; you just have to choose what you want to experience. Deciding will be the hardest part. 

Denali looms on the Anchorage skyline and beckons visitors to come and see the beauty it offers. I found this national park the easiest to get to on a day trip out of Anchorage.

Pro Tip: Decide before you go which ones you want to see. You will need to book whichever mode of transportation you use in advance, and it will take you a whole day to go there and back.

It Has City Comforts With Alaska Hospitality

Anchorage has everything a modern traveler could want, including a wide variety of places to stay. However, you will want to plan and book well in advance for your trip. You can find accommodations from boutique inns, chain hotels, or bed and breakfasts.

Food: I love it, and I did not know what to expect when it came to restaurants; however, you will find that the food scene in Anchorage reaches far above your expectations. Since it is right on the Cook Inlet, you will get the freshest seafood you’ve ever had. Try some locally sourced seafood, like salmon, halibut, or crab, or the unique local fare when you are here. Kinley’s Restaurant , only open in the evenings Tuesday–Saturday, is known for the best halibut cheeks in Alaska.

Pro Tip: Lodging near Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport was perfect for my trip. It’s a great location, close to everything Anchorage offers. Even though I was in the city, the views from The Lakefront Anchorage were stunning.

flightseeing in Anchorage, AK

Travel Options Are Endless (With Some Surprising Alternatives)

You might be wondering how to explore locally. Personally, I found Anchorage easy to navigate, and there were plenty of unique ways to see everything. Of course, you can rent a car, use public transportation, or use a taxi service if you want to sightsee and get around the traditional way; however, you’re in Alaska, so why not take in some things from the air or train? 

Flightseeing is a thing, and you can take a flight out of Anchorage any time of the year to see the incredible city from the sky. There is no other place in the United States with such a unique fleet of small planes. It is awe-inspiring when you look down from the sky and see all the rows of bush aircraft on the tarmac.

Another way to experience the wilderness is by railroad. Board the Alaska Railroad out of Anchorage to make a day trip to Seward, Talkeetna, or Denali.

Alaksa, Anchorage. Aerial view of the city taken from a helicopter during the summer. Body of water behind is Cook Inlet.

Experience The Best Of Alaska And Only Unpack Once 

Make Anchorage your personal launching pad for an Alaska journey. Within your reach, you have all the modern conveniences, delectable dining, stunning scenic drives, and abundant wildlife. It is the perfect opportunity to experience everything Alaska offers from one central base camp location… and you’ll only have to unpack once!

“The mountains are calling, and I must go,” John Muir once wrote. Do you hear them?

Related Reading: 

  • The Best Things To See And Do In Anchorage, Alaska
  • The 10 Most Stunning Hikes In Alaska
  • 5 Fabulous Glaciers To Visit In Alaska

Image of Brandy Gleason

Brandy Gleason is a travel enthusiast who is passionate about road trip expeditions, adventure, trying new things, and looking to find remarkable experiences that will take her by surprise. She writes the blog Gleason Family Adventure and is a co-author of the book Midwest Road Trip Adventures . Brandy enjoys freelance writing, where she can share her love of RVing or her travels to different destinations around the U.S. and throughout the world!

When she isn't writing, you can find her living life with her family, creating exciting multigenerational trips that include her husband Matt, children, and grandkids. However, sometimes this Grammy needs solo time, and that is when you will find her hiking a trail, relaxing at a unique eatery, or reading a book in an ENO hammock.

She invites you to follow her adventures on all her social media platforms for real-time exploration.

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Cultural Center and Museum in Anchorage, Alaska

Alaska Native Heritage building and grounds.

Plan a Visit

Feel the heartbeat of alaska’s indigenous people. hear our stories. explore our history and discover a cultural heritage still living and thriving today at the largest cultural institution in alaska..

The Alaska Native Heritage Center offers a unique experience for you to learn and explore the traditional and contemporary ways of Alaska’s Indigenous cultures. More than a museum, the Center is a place to engage and interact–to ask questions and discover.

Our living cultures continue to flourish in a changing world, and although our world changes, our values and traditions remain. Your visit today will take you on a journey through 10,000 years of Alaska Native history and culture through art, dance, Native Games demonstrations, exhibits, traditional Native dwellings, films and more.

There is always something new to discover at the Alaska Native Heritage Center!

We are renovating.

ANHC is temporarily closed to the public from February 2024 – May 2024 for renovations to ANHC’s facility. We are expected to reopen to the public on Mother’s Day, May 12, 2024. ANHC’s administrative offices remain open.

Facility rentals are available for only the Athabascan Ceremonial House and Mabel Pike classrooms. Contact our facility rentals team for inquiries at 907-330-8004.

Ch’k’iqadi Gallery Hours

* February Hours: By appointment only. The gallery phone number is 907-330-8009. Please direct appointment inquiries to this number. Karla Booth is the Ch’k’iqadi Gallery manager and can answer any gallery specific questions. * March – May 12, 2024 Hours: Monday-Fridayfrom 12PM-5PM. * Gallery customers will enter through the door that goes directly into the gallery, not the front doors.

The Gathering Place

The Gathering Place is center stage for Alaska Native dancing, compelling Native Games demonstrations, and intriguing storytelling! Join us and learn a song or practice a traditional game with one of our staff on stage.

The Hall of Cultures

The Hall of Cultures features a number of unique and dynamic exhibits that will teach you more about each of the five major culture groups of Alaska.

Alaska Native craft activities will keep the children entertained, and Alaska Native artists demonstrate and sell their work throughout the Hall of Cultures. You can take home a piece of traditional Alaska Native made art!

Please note that effective December 5, 2023, the Hall of Cultures is temporarily closed to the public for the remainder of ANHC’s Winter Season. 

The Theatre

The Theatre shows a variety of movies all day, including the Heritage Center-produced film, “Stories Given, Stories Shared.” This introductory film offers an opportunity to learn about the many different cultures of Alaska Native people as well as the beautiful landscapes and climates from each of the regions in Alaska.

Village Sites

During your visit, you will stroll through six authentic life-sized Native dwellings situated in a wooded area around beautiful Lake Tiulana. One of our Culture Bearers will introduce you to the traditional lifeways of the Iñupiaq, St. Lawrence Island Yupik, Athabascan, Eyak, Haida, Tsimshian, Tlingit, Unangax̂, Alutiiq/Sugpiaq, Yup’ik, and Cup’ik peoples.

Each village site has a traditional structure along with artifacts that each group used in their daily lives. Make sure to stop by the whale bones at the Iñupiaq site– it’s one of our best spots to snap a photo during your visit!

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Alaska Native Heritage Center 8800 Heritage Center Drive Anchorage, AK 99504 Map & Directions >>

(907) 330-8000 (855) 330-8085

2023-2024 Winter Hours

Closed to the public for renovations until 5/12/24

* February Hours: By appointment only * March – May 12, 2024 Hours: Monday-Friday 12PM-5PM. * Gallery customers will enter through the door that goes directly into the gallery.

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ANHC is temporarily closed to the public from February 2024 – May 2024 for renovations to ANHC’s facility.

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5 things to do in Anchorage this weekend

With some signature winter events like Fur Rondy, the Tour of Anchorage and the Iditarod ceremonial start in the rearview mirror, March’s events are turning an eye toward spring. The Spenard Food Truck Carnival’s opening weekend is here, and there’s also plenty of music and a cabaret revue. For those who are still hanging on to the chill, the Arctic Winter Games run all next week in Mat-Su. Here’s a look at some of the weekend’s big events.

Damn Tall Buildings

7:30 p.m. Friday; Discovery Theatre, 621 W. Sixth Ave.

This group full of Berklee College of Music graduates tried their hand at busking before developing a sound that is both modern and traditional. Tickets start at $47.50.

Handy Man Can Can

8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; The Broken Blender, 535 W. Third Ave.

This mostly male revue presented by Sweet Cheeks Cabaret starts this weekend and runs every Friday and Saturday through March 23. The show is billed as “fresh, new choreographed acts that are funny, sexy, and full of talent.” Tickets are $25-$35.

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People look over the Tacos El Primo lunch menu in Anchorage’s Spenard neighborhood on March 24, 2022. (Emily Mesner / ADN)

Spenard Food Truck Carnival

11 a.m. Saturday; Koot’s parking lot, 2435 Spenard Road

Back for a 12th year, the Spenard Food Truck Carnival kicks off Saturday. The current roster includes Yeti Dogs, Tacos El Primo, B Street Gumbo, Garcia’s, Tiki Pete’s and Smokehouse BBQ. The carnival is held on Saturdays until the snow melts, when it opens for Thursday lunches as well.

Alaska Whole Life Festival

11 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday; Coast Inn, 3450 Aviation Ave.

This festival aims to “ease your body, open your mind and soothe your soul.” The “metaphysical and healing arts” experience includes plenty of lectures and vendors. Admission is $10 a day or $5 a day for military, students and seniors.

Arctic Winter Games kickoff

3:30 p.m. Sunday; Curtis D. Menard Memorial Sports Center, 1001 S. Clapp St. in Wasilla

The biennial Arctic Winter Games return to Alaska for the first time in a decade. Launched in 1970, the Games kick off Sunday with the opening ceremony and run through the week. With athletes from across the state, Canada, Greenland and northern Europe, there are dozens of competitions in everything from skiing and badminton to Dene games and futsal. There is also a Pamyua concert and fashion show on Thursday and a cultural gala on Friday . Standing-room-only tickets for the opening ceremony — with doors open at 2:45 p.m. Sunday — cost $20.

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.

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  1. Visit Anchorage, Alaska

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  5. Anchorage Visitor Information Centers

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    The Anchorage area is home to nearly half of Alaska's residents, along with some 300 moose, 250 black bears, and 60 brown bears. Don't let Anchorage's city feel fool you, the big wilds of Alaska are close by. The city is bordered to the east by the peaks of Chugach State Park and to the south by the Turnagain Arm, a tumultuously beautiful ...

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    Glaciers. Glaciers can be seen throughout the year, and Alaska boasts over 100,000 across the state. However, be specific when inquiring about how to visit one — there are 60 within 50 miles of Anchorage. Spend anywhere from one hour to a full day spotting glaciers in places like Prince William Sound in and around Anchorage.

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    Anchorage is a year-round destination that offers all the wilderness and adventure of Alaska combined with all the amenities of a large city. Discover why Anchorage is a fascinating place to visit: The Web Counter says you are visitor since 11/29/95. We hope to see you again! The Anchorage Convention & Visitors Bureau (ACVB) has made its

  10. Visit Anchorage Information Centers

    Anchorage pros can help you plan with friendly, expert tips, and insights. (907) 257-2363 [email protected]. Visitor Information in Downtown. Visit Anchorage's downtown information centers include the Log Cabin Visitor Center at the corner of 4th Avenue and F Street, and a second visitor center located on F Street behind the log cabin.

  11. 17 Best Things to Do in Anchorage, Alaska

    Turnagain Arm (16 miles away): This is one of the best places to go hiking and spot wildlife in Alaska. Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop (60 miles away): One of the top attractions in Alaska, the ...

  12. Anchorage Guide: Planning Your Trip

    Planning Your Trip. Best Time to Visit: Anchorage has year-round appeal, but the majority of visitors arrive between May and September. From June to August, visitors enjoy the endless light of the midnight sun, though travel during the peak summer season can be expensive and crowded. While average temps dip down into the low teens come winter ...

  13. Reasons to Visit Anchorage

    Reasons to Visit. Only in Anchorage can you meet a moose, walk on a glacier, and explore a vast, natural park all in a single day.Between mountains and an inlet, surrounded by national parks and filled with Alaska wildlife, Anchorage combines the best of Alaska: Experience a city with wide-open spaces, all the comforts of home, some of the coolest views in the state, and the warm hospitality ...

  14. Visit Anchorage

    Visit Anchorage, Anchorage, Alaska. 161,166 likes · 417 talking about this · 3,613 were here. Visit Anchorage is the official source for travel information about the communities of Anchorage,...

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

    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.

  16. Places to Visit in Anchorage

    2023. 1. Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. 3,866. Nature & Wildlife Areas. Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is located at Mile 79 of the Seward Highway. AWCC is a non-profit sanctuary dedicated to preserving Alaska's wildlife through conservation, education, research, and quality animal care.

  17. 2022 Anchorage Neighborhood Guide by Visit Anchorage

    Visit the Midtown Farmers Market in season, then set a course for a local brewery to sample Anchorage's awardwinning beer scene. Explore the neighborhood by foot, bike, or vehicle.

  18. About Visit Anchorage

    Since 1975, Visit Anchorage - formerly the Anchorage Convention and Visitors Bureau - has represented the communities of Anchorage, Girdwood, Eagle River, Eklutna, Indian, Birchwood, Chugiak, and Portage before the traveling public, both in the U.S. and around the world. Visit Anchorage's mission: driving economic and social value for Anchorage ...

  19. 8 Things To Know Before Your First Trip To Anchorage, Alaska

    Visit Anchorage You're Close To Dozens Of Glaciers. If you have come to Alaska to see the glaciers, there are 60 within 50 miles of Anchorage. Your challenge will be to pick the one you want to see and then plan your day trip. The most accessible one to Anchorage, by Alaska standards, is the Portage Glacier; it is a short, fifty-mile scenic ...

  20. Visit Anchorage

    Visit Anchorage | 1,139 followers on LinkedIn. Visit Anchorage is the official source for visitor information for Anchorage, Alaska. | Visit Anchorage's mission is to attract and serve visitors ...

  21. Plan a Visit

    Ch'k'iqadi Gallery Hours. * February Hours: By appointment only. The gallery phone number is 907-330-8009. Please direct appointment inquiries to this number. Karla Booth is the Ch'k'iqadi Gallery manager and can answer any gallery specific questions. * March - May 12, 2024 Hours: Monday-Fridayfrom 12PM-5PM.

  22. 5 things to do in Anchorage this weekend

    Alaska Whole Life Festival. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday; Coast Inn, 3450 Aviation Ave. This festival aims to "ease your body, open your mind and soothe your soul."

  23. Alaska Vacation Packages for Less at Anchorage.net

    Jan 27, 2024 to Jan 21, 2025. (907) 257-2363. Save on Alaska vacation packages at Anchorage.net. Visit Website.