Things To Do
in Anchorage
Anchorage, Alaska, sits between the Chugach Mountains and Cook Inlet, making it a natural gateway to wild Alaska. It blends urban amenities with easy access to hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and coastal scenery. Winters are cold and snowy, while summers are mild with long daylight and a lively outdoor scene.
As the state's largest city, Anchorage offers museums, markets, seafood, and adventures that range from city strolls to glacier adventures.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café in downtown Anchorage, where you can enjoy fresh pastries and locally roasted coffee. Afterward, embark on a guided walking tour of the Anchorage Historic District, learning about the city's rich history and its pivotal role during the gold rush. Don't forget to visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center to appreciate the deep cultural roots of the indigenous peoples.
After a leisurely morning, grab lunch at a nearby restaurant that serves Alaskan seafood, such as salmon or halibut. Spend your afternoon exploring the Anchorage Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the art, history, and science of Alaska through various engaging exhibits. Take some time to stroll through the museum's beautiful outdoor gardens, which showcase native plants and stunning views.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot in the downtown area for dinner, perhaps trying a local brewpub that offers craft beer and hearty dishes. Consider attending a cultural performance at the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts, where you can experience local music, dance, or theater. Finish your evening with a peaceful walk along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, enjoying the scenic waterfront views.
Begin your day early with a hearty breakfast before boarding the Alaska Railroad for a scenic train journey to Seward. As the train departs, marvel at the breathtaking landscapes of mountains, forests, and glacial waters that unfold outside your window. Keep your camera handy, as the journey offers numerous opportunities to capture the beauty of the Alaskan wilderness.
Upon arrival in Seward, enjoy lunch at a waterfront café with views of the harbor and surrounding mountains. Afterward, embark on a wildlife cruise in the Kenai Fjords National Park, where you can spot seals, sea lions, and possibly even a humpback whale. The dramatic cliffs and glaciers provide a perfect backdrop as you explore this stunning natural wonder.
Return to Anchorage in the evening and savor dinner at a restaurant that specializes in Alaskan cuisine. If you're up for it, join a local brewery tour to sample some regional craft beers and learn about the brewing process. Wind down your day by relaxing at your accommodation or taking a stroll to enjoy the crisp Alaskan night air.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚌One-way public transit fare | $2-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $150-230 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant | $40-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning access to wilderness and wildlife
- Strong seafood scene and outdoor culture
- Compact downtown with museums and markets
- Easy flight connections via ANC
- Limited public transit outside downtown
- Higher costs for some services
- Winter darkness and cold can be challenging
- Weather can be unpredictable and variable
Places to Visit in Anchorage
Visit one of these nice places.
Scenic overlook on Turnagain Arm offering dramatic inlet views and mountain backdrops; great at sunrise or sunset.
Urban overlook with interpretive displays and views of Cook Inlet framed by distant peaks.
Classic glacier scenery with easy access trails and reflective lake views.
Coastal vistas, water, and city skyline—ideal for long-exposure sunsets and wide-angle shots.
High vantage point above the inlet offering sweeping views of the city and ocean, especially striking at dusk.
Food in Anchorage
Anchorage Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh Pacific catches featured at many seafood-focused restaurants and coastal venues.
Must-Try!
A regional staple often found in breakfasts and street-food style dishes—great with eggs and onions.
Luxurious seafood option available at waterfront and fine-dining spots during season.
Seasonal sweets and jams highlighting Alaska’s native berries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal open-air market with local produce, handmade crafts, and food vendors offering Alaska-inspired favorites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Maintain distance from bears and moose; carry bear spray where advised and follow posted guidelines in backcountry areas.
Acknowledge and honor local Native heritage; ask before photographing people or sacred sites; support local Indigenous businesses when possible.
Safety
Tipping in Anchorage
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard US practice: 15-20% at restaurants; 10-15% at bars; tips for guides and taxi drivers. If service charges apply, adjust accordingly.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is useful at markets and small venues. ATMs are common downtown; many places accept mobile payments as well.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with long daylight hours; great for hiking and waterfront activities. Expect mosquitoes in low-lying areas and be bear-aware when venturing into backcountry.
Cold, snowy, and shorter days; excellent for Northern Lights and winter sports. Layer up and plan for icy roads and limited daylight.
Mild with frequent rain and melting snow; birds return and trails thaw—gear up for mud and variable temperatures.
Crisp air and autumn colors with cooling nights; shoulder season for crowds but with scenic photo opportunities and seasonal cuisine.
Anchorage at Night
Hiking in Anchorage
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic downtown-accessible hike with panoramic views of Anchorage and the surrounding peaks.
Easy to moderate trails with glacier views and wildlife opportunities.
Scenic alpine routes north of Anchorage with wildflowers and rugged scenery.
Short hikes with striking vantage points near Turnagain Arm.
Airports
How to reach Anchorage by plane.
The main international gateway to Alaska, located a short drive from downtown Anchorage with extensive domestic and international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Largest racial group in the city alongside a significant Alaska Native population.
Strong presence with cultural centers and events in the city.
Growing community contributing to the workforce and culture.
Smaller but active communities contributing to diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Winter sports available at Alyeska Resort and local trails.
Salmon and trout fishing in local creeks and streams; guided charters available.
Seasonal heritage activity available in nearby areas and during winter festivals.
Year-round access to trails like Flattop Mountain with varying difficulty.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Anchorage.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer veggie burgers, salads, and pasta; ask for meat-free or dairy-free options and look for plant-based specials.