20 Things to Do in Anchorage Alaska

Anchorage, Alaska, is a city that offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, and urban amenities. As Alaska’s largest city, Anchorage serves as a gateway to some of the state’s most breathtaking natural landscapes while also offering a vibrant arts and dining scene. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or food enthusiast, Anchorage has something for everyone. Here are 20 exciting things to do in Anchorage that will make your visit unforgettable.

1. Explore the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail

The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is one of Anchorage’s most popular outdoor attractions. This 11-mile trail offers stunning views of Cook Inlet, downtown Anchorage, and the Chugach Mountains. Whether you’re walking, biking, or rollerblading, the trail provides ample opportunities to spot wildlife such as moose, bald eagles, and even beluga whales in the inlet.

2. Visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center

The Alaska Native Heritage Center is a must-visit cultural institution that showcases the history, art, and traditions of Alaska’s indigenous peoples. The center features exhibits, traditional performances, and demonstrations that offer visitors a deeper understanding of Alaska’s native cultures, including the Dena’ina, Tlingit, and Inupiat peoples. Don’t miss the opportunity to tour the life-sized replicas of traditional native dwellings.

3. Discover the Anchorage Museum

The Anchorage Museum is the largest museum in Alaska and offers a fascinating mix of art, history, and science exhibits. The museum’s Smithsonian Arctic Studies Center focuses on the indigenous cultures of Alaska, while the Alaska Gallery explores the state’s history, from its Russian colonial period to the oil boom. The Imaginarium Discovery Center provides interactive exhibits for children, making it a great family destination.

4. Go Salmon Fishing at Ship Creek

Located in downtown Anchorage, Ship Creek is one of the best places to fish for salmon right in the heart of the city. During the summer months, anglers flock to Ship Creek to catch king and silver salmon. Even if you’re not fishing, it’s worth stopping by to watch the action and enjoy the scenic views of downtown Anchorage.

5. Take a Scenic Flight to Denali

Anchorage is a popular starting point for scenic flights to Denali National Park, home to North America’s highest peak, Denali. These flights offer breathtaking views of the towering 20,310-foot mountain, glaciers, and rugged wilderness. Many flightseeing tours include the option to land on a glacier, giving you an up-close look at the stunning natural beauty of Alaska’s highest elevations.

6. Visit Potter Marsh at the Anchorage Coastal Wildlife Refuge

Potter Marsh, located just south of Anchorage, is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. The boardwalks at Potter Marsh provide access to a variety of ecosystems, including wetlands, ponds, and grasslands, which are home to more than 130 species of birds, including trumpeter swans, bald eagles, and Arctic terns. The marsh is also a great spot to see moose, muskrats, and salmon.

7. Experience the Northern Lights

Anchorage is one of the best places in the world to witness the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis. During the winter months, from September to April, the skies above Anchorage often light up with stunning displays of colorful lights. For the best views, head to a dark location outside the city, such as Flattop Mountain or Eagle River Nature Center.

8. Hike Flattop Mountain

If you’re looking for a challenging yet rewarding hike, Flattop Mountain is one of the most popular hikes in Anchorage. The trail is about three miles round-trip and offers panoramic views of Anchorage, Cook Inlet, and the surrounding mountains. On a clear day, you can even see Denali in the distance. The steep climb to the summit is worth it for the stunning vistas.

9. Visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

Located about an hour’s drive from Anchorage, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center provides a sanctuary for orphaned and injured animals. The center is home to a variety of Alaska’s iconic wildlife, including bears, moose, bison, wolves, and musk oxen. Visitors can take self-guided tours of the facility, watch the animals in their habitats, and learn about conservation efforts.

10. Attend the Iditarod Sled Dog Race Start

Each March, Anchorage hosts the ceremonial start of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, also known as “The Last Great Race on Earth.” This world-famous race covers nearly 1,000 miles of rugged Alaskan terrain from Anchorage to Nome. The ceremonial start, held in downtown Anchorage, is a festive event featuring sled dog teams, mushers, and plenty of fanfare.

11. Enjoy the Anchorage Market & Festival

During the summer months, the Anchorage Market & Festival is a lively gathering spot for locals and tourists. Held every weekend from May to September, the market features hundreds of vendors selling everything from Alaskan crafts and artwork to fresh produce and delicious street food. It’s a great place to shop for unique souvenirs, sample local flavors, and enjoy live entertainment.

12. Take a Day Trip to Portage Glacier

Just a short drive from Anchorage, Portage Glacier is one of Alaska’s most accessible glaciers. Visitors can take a boat tour across Portage Lake to get up close to the glacier and witness chunks of ice calving into the water. There are also hiking trails in the area that offer spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.

13. Visit Earthquake Park

Anchorage was the epicenter of the 1964 Good Friday Earthquake, the most powerful earthquake in North American history. Earthquake Park commemorates the event, offering informative displays about the earthquake and its impact on Anchorage. The park also features trails and scenic views of Cook Inlet, making it a peaceful place to reflect on the city’s resilience.

14. Explore Chugach State Park

Anchorage is surrounded by the Chugach State Park, one of the largest state parks in the United States. The park offers countless opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, camping, fishing, and skiing. Popular spots within the park include Eagle River Nature Center, Bird Ridge, and Eklutna Lake. The park’s proximity to Anchorage makes it an easy escape into the wilderness.

15. Take a Glacier and Wildlife Cruise in Prince William Sound

Anchorage serves as a jumping-off point for cruises in Prince William Sound, one of the most scenic areas of Alaska. These cruises offer the chance to see towering glaciers, calving icebergs, and a wide variety of wildlife, including sea otters, seals, puffins, and whales. Whittier, located about 60 miles from Anchorage, is a popular departure point for these unforgettable glacier and wildlife cruises.

16. Visit the Alaska Aviation Museum

The Alaska Aviation Museum is located on the shores of Lake Hood, the world’s busiest seaplane base. The museum features exhibits that showcase Alaska’s rich aviation history, from early bush pilots to modern aircraft. Visitors can explore vintage planes, flight simulators, and historical artifacts, offering a fascinating look at how aviation has shaped the state.

17. Take a Helicopter Tour and Land on a Glacier

For a truly unforgettable experience, take a helicopter tour from Anchorage and land on one of Alaska’s glaciers. Several tour operators offer flights that take you over the stunning landscapes of Chugach National Forest or Knik Glacier, where you can touch down and explore the ice up close. These tours offer unparalleled views of the state’s rugged terrain and majestic glaciers.

18. Visit Kincaid Park

Located on the western edge of Anchorage, Kincaid Park is a 1,500-acre park that offers a variety of recreational opportunities. In the winter, the park is a popular destination for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. During the summer, visitors can enjoy hiking and biking trails, a disc golf course, and stunning views of Cook Inlet and the surrounding mountains.

19. Experience the Fur Rendezvous Festival

Known locally as Fur Rondy, the Fur Rendezvous Festival is a winter celebration that has been a part of Anchorage’s culture since 1935. Held in late February, the festival features a wide range of events, including the Running of the Reindeer, snow sculptures, carnival rides, and sled dog races. Fur Rondy is a lively celebration of Anchorage’s heritage and a great way to experience the city’s vibrant winter culture.

20. Dine at Some of Anchorage’s Top Restaurants

Anchorage has a diverse food scene that reflects the city’s multicultural population and abundant natural resources. Fresh seafood, particularly salmon and king crab, is a highlight at many restaurants. Popular dining spots include Simon & Seafort’s Saloon & Grill, known for its seafood and stunning views of Cook Inlet, and Glacier Brewhouse, a favorite for wood-grilled meats and craft beers.

Conclusion

Anchorage, Alaska, offers a rich array of activities and experiences that cater to all interests. Whether you’re exploring the great outdoors, learning about Alaska’s rich history and cultures, or enjoying the city’s vibrant food and arts scene, there’s always something new to discover in this unique northern city. These 20 activities provide just a glimpse of the many adventures that await in Anchorage.