Things to Do in Anchorage, Alaska: Your Ultimate Guide

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Hey there, fellow travelers! Planning a trip to Alaska? Anchorage is the ideal starting point for your adventure. Whether you’re an outdoor lover, a history enthusiast, or simply want to soak in stunning landscapes, this city has something for everyone. I’ve been lucky enough to explore Anchorage, and I can’t wait to share some of my favorite things to do. So, let’s dive in!

Introduction

Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city, is often seen as a gateway to the state’s vast wilderness. However, there’s so much more to it than just its location. This city perfectly blends urban culture with rugged nature. You can spot a moose during a morning hike and enjoy fresh seafood at a downtown restaurant later. Whether you’re visiting for a day or staying a week, Anchorage has activities for every traveler. If you’re curious about the best things to do in Anchorage, Alaska, I’ve got you covered. Let’s explore!

1. Explore the Tony Knowles Coastal Traild

One of Anchorage’s favorite outdoor activities is the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. This scenic 11-mile path runs along the city’s beautiful coastline. Whether you’re walking, biking, or rollerblading, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean, mountains, and wildlife (watch for moose!). Starting downtown, the trail winds through parks and forests, offering a perfect way to experience Anchorage’s natural beauty.

Pro Tip: Visit during sunset for breathtaking views of Cook Inlet and the chance to spot beluga whales from the shoreline!

2. Discover Alaskan History at the Anchorage Museum

If you want to dive deeper into Alaska’s rich history and culture, the Anchorage Museum is a must-visit. This modern museum is home to fascinating exhibits on Alaska’s indigenous peoples, its wildlife, and its natural wonders. The museum’s Smithsonian Arctic Studies Center features over 600 Native Alaskan artifacts, giving you a glimpse into the traditions and lifestyle of the region’s First Peoples. There’s also a planetarium, which is a great spot to learn about Alaska’s incredible night sky.

Don’t Miss: The “Living Our Cultures” exhibit, showcasing artifacts and stories from Alaska’s Native communities.

3. Visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center

Speaking of Native culture, the Alaska Native Heritage Center is an immersive way to learn about the state’s indigenous peoples. The center offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience traditional dance performances, listen to storytelling, and explore recreated native dwellings around a scenic lake. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of Alaska’s diverse indigenous heritage, which is an essential part of the state’s identity.

Local Insight: Attend a cultural performance to watch traditional dances and hear the stories behind them—it’s a powerful and educational experience.

4. Experience Wildlife at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

If seeing Alaska’s majestic wildlife up close is high on your list, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is a fantastic stop. Located about an hour south of Anchorage, this sanctuary is home to bears, moose, bison, eagles, and even wolves. The center focuses on the rehabilitation and care of injured or orphaned animals, offering a safe haven for them to live while educating visitors about Alaska’s wildlife. It’s perfect for families or anyone who loves animals!

Pro Tip: Don’t forget your camera—there are some amazing photo opportunities here, especially with the rescued brown bears!

5. Hike Flattop Mountain for Stunning Views

For those of you who love a good hike, Flattop Mountain is Anchorage’s most popular hiking spot—and for good reason. The 3-mile round-trip hike takes you up to a summit that offers panoramic views of the city, the surrounding mountains, and on a clear day, even Denali in the distance. It’s a moderately challenging hike, but the views at the top are more than worth the effort.

Insider Tip: If hiking isn’t your thing, you can still drive up to Glen Alps Trailhead for incredible vistas without the strenuous climb.

6. Go Flightseeing for an Aerial Adventure

One of the most exhilarating ways to see the true grandeur of Alaska is by taking a flightseeing tour. Anchorage is a hub for small aircraft flights that will take you over glaciers, mountains, and even active volcanoes. You’ll get an awe-inspiring bird’s-eye view of the state’s untamed wilderness. Whether it’s flying over the Chugach Mountains or spotting grizzly bears in the wild, flightseeing is an unforgettable way to experience Alaska.

Bucket List Moment: Opt for a glacier landing tour for the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to set foot on an ancient glacier!

7. Catch the Northern Lights in Winter

If you’re visiting Anchorage in the winter, one of the best things to do is chase the Northern Lights. While you can see the aurora borealis throughout Alaska, Anchorage offers plenty of spots for aurora viewing within a short drive from the city. Rent a car and head out to places like Point Woronzof or Eklutna Lake for a good chance to witness this magical natural phenomenon.

Pro Tip: Check the aurora forecast and bundle up—it can get chilly during winter nights, but the lights are worth the cold!

8. Take a Day Trip to Portage Glacier

Just 50 miles from Anchorage is the stunning Portage Glacier, one of the most accessible glaciers in the state. You can visit the Begich, Boggs Visitor Center to learn about the glacier’s history and catch a boat tour that takes you right up to the glacier’s face. It’s a breathtaking sight to see such a massive ice formation up close, and the surrounding area is full of trails and picnic spots for a perfect day trip.

Local Insight: If you’re visiting in the winter, you can walk across the frozen lake to get even closer to the glacier—just be sure to check ice conditions!

9. Stroll Through Downtown Anchorage

Finally, no visit to Anchorage is complete without a leisurely stroll through downtown Anchorage. You’ll find local shops, art galleries, cafes, and restaurants that give you a taste of the city’s unique culture. Stop by the Anchorage Market & Festival (open in summer) to sample local food and shop for Alaskan-made goods. Don’t forget to snap a photo with the iconic Anchorage sign and check out the nearby Ship Creek for a chance to see salmon swimming upstream!

Don’t Miss: Grab a bite at one of the local seafood spots downtown—Anchorage is known for its fresh Alaskan salmon and halibut!

Conclusion

Anchorage, Alaska, truly has something for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re an outdoor adventurer, a history lover, or simply someone looking to experience the beauty of Alaska, Anchorage offers a little bit of everything. From hiking trails with jaw-dropping views to fascinating museums and wildlife encounters, the options are endless. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore all the incredible things to do in Anchorage, Alaska—you won’t be disappointed!