Anchorage Attractions
Anchorage, Alaska, is the perfect destination for adventurers, nature enthusiasts, and outdoor lovers. From the stunning glaciers and mountains to the abundant wildlife, Anchorage offers a truly unique and unforgettable travel experience.
One of the top attractions is the Chugach State Park, where visitors can hike, camp, and view wildlife. The park spans across 495,000 acres and has over 280 miles of hiking trails. Another popular destination is the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, a scenic 11-mile pathway that runs along the coast of the city. The trail offers breathtaking views of the ocean, mountains, and wildlife.
For those interested in history, Anchorage boasts several museums, including the Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center, the Alaska Native Heritage Center, and the Alaska Aviation Museum. Each museum offers a unique glimpse into Alaskan culture and history.
One of the most iconic attractions in Anchorage is the white-capped Denali, also known as Mount McKinley. The mountain can be seen from the city, and visitors can take a tour to see the mountain up close.
Lastly, no visit to Anchorage is complete without trying the local seafood, which includes fresh king crab, halibut, and salmon. The city also has a thriving craft brewery scene, with many local breweries offering unique and delicious beers.
In summary, Anchorage is an ideal destination for travelers seeking adventure, nature, and outdoor activities. Boasting breathtaking landscapes, cultural attractions, and local cuisine, Anchorage is truly a must-visit destination.
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Hop aboard a red trolley in downtown Anchorage in front of the Visitor Information Center. Trolleys leave every hour, giving you some flexibility in your sightseeing schedule. The trolley covers 15 miles over the course of an hour.
Pass through the city’s historic neighborhoods as your guide points out interesting trivia. Watch seaplanes make splash landings on Lake Hood and Lake Spenard, & travel through Earthquake Park to see the damages caused by one of the most powerful recorded earthquakes in North American history.
You'll also see the historic Alaska Railroad, Westchester Lagoon and maybe even some crossing moose. Your tour ends back at the departure point. Make use of your complimentary coupon book when you explore Anchorage on your own!
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$199.00
Experience the Big Outdoors and Portage Glacier Cruise!
See the amazing beauty that surrounds Anchorage.
This special tour does not follow any set route. Nor does it follow a time table.
Use your time wisely by going into the wilderness to see wildlife and view glaciers. Summer only: an option, on a 80 ft. cruise ship. (available 11am departure only and May 24 - Sep 15.)
We follow the sun, the wind and our hearts to navigate your vacation towards the most scenic locations capable for the day of your tour.
The Wilderness Wildlife Glacier Experience includes entrance into the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. During summer you'll have an option to include a glacier cruise on the mv Ptarmigan.
Learn about our rich history and see the Ring of Glaciers. This award winning tour can not be replicated by any other service or shuttle.
The Wilderness Wildlife Glacier Experience offers highly trained Adventure Guides who's sole purpose is making your vacation memories last a lifetime.
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$234.87
Phillips Cruises and Tours offers a unique and memorable way to view the beauty of the glaciers and wildlife of Prince William Sound in a pristine wilderness area. Conditions change daily due to weather, ice flows, and wildlife activity so our captains adapt to these changing conditions to provide the best cruise experience while keeping your safety and comfort a top priority. The crew is attentive throughout the cruise ensuring that your time with us is an enjoyable memory and a favorite highlight of your Alaska vacation.
Our tours are operated on first-class catamarans. Due to their dual hull design, these powerful high-speed catamarans are extremely stable and able to smoothly navigate through the narrow fjords and passages that lead us to the face of massive glaciers. By operating safely and efficiently, Phillips provides a comfortable cruise and our No Seasickness Guarantee assures nervous cruisers the confidence that they will enjoy our cruise without any unpleasant effects.
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$112.00
Get ready for an adventure in the Alaskan wilderness with an ATV tour from Denali. On an automatic single or double ATV, you'll ride along trails surrounded by Denali National Park at speeds up to 30 mph (48 kph), and make stops to enjoy 360-degree views of the Alaska Range, Otto Lake, and the Healy Valley. Traverse rocky creek beds and splash through the water (weather permitting) as a guide leads you through the rugged terrain and provides opportunities for photography. Wildlife is abundant, so watch for moose on the trail. When booking, select from several departure times and decide whether you want a single or 2-passenger side-by-side ATV.
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$50.00
The same great tour with a few extras! The extended tour allows you to get off the trolley at specific stops to take pictures and ask your guide unscripted questions. You will be able to spend 5-10 minutes at several of our most popular stops as well as a bit of one on one time with your guide. The tour takes about 1.5-2 hours from start to finish.
Hop aboard a red trolley in downtown Anchorage in front of the Visitor Information Center.
Pass through the city’s historic neighborhoods as your guide points out interesting trivia. Watch seaplanes make splash landings on Lake Hood and Lake Spenard, & travel through Earthquake Park to see the damages caused by one of the most powerful recorded earthquakes in North American history.
You'll also see the historic Alaska Railroad, Westchester Lagoon and maybe even some crossing moose. Your tour ends back at the departure point. Make use of your complimentary coupon book when you explore Anchorage on your own!
Price From
$129.00
This tour is a great way to experience some amazing sights of Alaska, wildlife, glaciers, and a rainforest within a half day. Your guide will pick you up from downtown Anchorage and drive along Turnagain Arm, which boasts abundant scenic views and Alaskan wildlife within easy access to the city of Anchorage. Along the way, you will learn many interesting facts about this area’s history, animals, and ecosystem from your experienced guide.
You will visit the Wildlife Conservation Center, located at the end of Turnagain Arm and surrounded by mountain peaks. You will have the chance to explore on your own and visit the many animals in the center, including brown bears, wolfs, caribou, moose, and the endangered Woodland Bison.
After the Wildlife Center, you will have the opportunity to see the majestic Portage Valley, a few miles drive from the Wildlife Center. Here you will enjoy several amazing viewpoints of glaciers, lakes, rivers, and a unique rainforest.
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$69.00
Let an insider lead the way around Anchorage on this half-day tour of the city, featuring stops at must-see attractions like Ship Creek and Alaska Wild Berry Products. Gain a deeper understanding of local culture as you learn the history of Anchorage and Alaska. You will learn about the local history, wildlife, and cultures. Enjoy some amazing views of the Chugach and Kenai Mountains along some of the scenic stops. Visit some of the premier shops in Anchorage like the Ulu Factor where hand-crafted ulu knives are made and sold. See the world’s tallest chocolate fountain and Alaska Wildberry Products and sample some of their famous locally made chocolate. You will also have the opportunity to taste some of the best-smoked salmon and reindeer sausage. This tour includes samples at Alaska Sausage and Seafood and Wildberry Products. Multiple stops will also include opportunities to see Alaskan Wildlife and Float planes departing from the busiest small plane airport in the world.
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Price From
$199.00
See Wilderness Outside of Anchorage City Limits.
Small Group Excursion, Big Alaskan Experience -- All IN ONE TOUR, ALL IN ONE DAY
Take an adventure and see Bears, Moose, Glaciers while being able to freely walk along the most Scenic Views in the world.
This is a life changing experience that goes far beyond a tour or shuttle. This activity offers "boots to the ground" adventure, however the level of involvement is entirely at the traveler's discretion.
The excursion is extremely senior friendly.
Departs downtown Anchorage and heads outside its city limits. This adventure begins to enter the vast wilderness of the Chugach State and National Forest.
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$285.00
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$69.00
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$112.00
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Anchorage, the largest city in Alaska, has made significant progress in recent years to ensure that people with disabilities and seniors have greater accessibility to public buildings, transportation, and other services. Here’s a rundown of the city’s accessibility features:
1. Public Transportation: Anchorage has a public transportation system, called People Mover, that is accessible for individuals using wheelchairs, scooters, or other mobility devices. All buses have wheelchair ramps or lifts, and securement systems to ensure that the device is safely secured on the bus.
2. Accessible Sidewalks and Curb Cutouts: Anchorage has made significant progress in ensuring that sidewalks and curb cutouts throughout the city are accessible to individuals with disabilities. Many sidewalks have been upgraded to provide level terrain, and curb cutouts have been installed at key intersections to allow wheelchair users to navigate the streets safely.
3. Accessible Parking: Anchorage has designated accessible parking spaces in public parking lots, driveways, and on-street parking areas throughout the city. These designated spaces are clearly marked with blue paint and signage, and are close to accessible walkways and entrances.
4. Accessible Buildings: The city of Anchorage has instituted a policy of ensuring that all new public buildings are built with accessible features. Many older public buildings have also been retrofitted to make them more accessible to individuals with disabilities, including adding wheelchair ramps and elevators.
5. Accessible Restrooms: Public restrooms in Anchorage are required to meet accessibility standards under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Many public restrooms throughout the city have been renovated to make them more accessible, including adding grab bars, lowered sinks, and wider doors.
6. Accessible Trails and Parks: Anchorage has many accessible trails and parks, including the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, which offers stunning views of the ocean and mountains, and the Ben Boeke Ice Arena, which has an accessible ice rink.
Overall, Anchorage has made great strides in improving accessibility for people with disabilities and seniors, but there is still work to be done. The city is committed to continuing to improve accessibility throughout the community and welcomes feedback from residents and visitors alike.
City Info and Accessibility
Anchorage, Alaska is a relatively safe city, but like any other place, it’s important to always be vigilant and take necessary precautions. Some safety tips to keep in mind while visiting Anchorage include:
1. Be prepared for the weather: Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable, so make sure to dress in layers and pack appropriate clothing for the conditions, especially during the winter months.
2. Keep an eye out for wildlife: Anchorage is located in a natural environment with abundant wildlife, so be cautious when hiking or exploring outdoor areas to avoid any potentially dangerous encounters.
3. Stay aware of your surroundings: While Anchorage is generally safe, it’s always a good idea to stay alert and aware of your surroundings, especially in busy or unfamiliar areas.
4. Secure your belongings: Just like in any other city, be sure to keep your belongings secure and be cautious of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas or tourist hotspots.
Common languages spoken in Anchorage include English, as well as various indigenous languages such as Iñupiat, Yupik, and Aleut. You will also find a diverse population in Anchorage, so you may hear other languages being spoken as well.
The best time to visit Anchorage largely depends on your interests and what activities you plan to do. The most popular time to visit is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is mild and there are endless opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. However, if you’re interested in seeing the Northern Lights, the best time to visit is during the winter months, from September to April, when the night skies are dark enough to catch this spectacular natural phenomenon.
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Anchorage, Alaska offers a variety of accommodation options for travelers, ranging from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious lodges. The best areas to stay in Anchorage include:
1. Downtown Anchorage: This area is centrally located and offers easy access to restaurants, shopping, and attractions like the Alaska Railroad Depot and the Anchorage Museum.
2. Midtown Anchorage: This area is home to numerous hotels, shopping centers, and restaurants, making it a convenient choice for visitors looking for a mix of amenities.
3. South Anchorage: This area offers a more residential feel, with access to outdoor activities like hiking trails and parks. It is a good option for travelers seeking a quieter environment.
Accommodation options in Anchorage cater to various budgets and preferences:
1. Budget-Friendly Accommodations:
- Motels and budget hotels like Motel 6, Super 8, and Extended Stay America offer affordable options for travelers on a budget.
- Hostels like Bent Prop Inn & Hostel Downtown and Arctic Adventure Hostel provide budget-friendly accommodation for backpackers and solo travelers.
2. Mid-Range Accommodations:
- Chain hotels such as Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn Express, and Comfort Suites offer comfortable accommodations at a reasonable price point.
- Bed and breakfasts like Copper Whale Inn and Susitna Place provide a more personalized experience for travelers.
3. Luxury Accommodations:
- Luxury hotels such as Hotel Captain Cook, The Lakefront Anchorage, and Alyeska Resort offer upscale amenities and services for guests seeking a more lavish stay.
- Wilderness lodges like Winterlake Lodge and Tutka Bay Lodge provide secluded luxury accommodations surrounded by Alaska’s natural beauty.
For seniors and individuals with disabilities, Anchorage offers accessible accommodation options to ensure a comfortable stay:
1. Accessible Hotels:
- Many hotels in Anchorage offer accessible rooms with features such as grab bars, roll-in showers, and wheelchair accessibility. Some accessible options include Hilton Anchorage, Sheraton Anchorage Hotel & Spa, and Marriott Anchorage Downtown.
2. Accessible Vacation Rentals:
- Vacation rental platforms like Airbnb and VRBO offer a selection of accessible properties in Anchorage that cater to individuals with disabilities.
3. Accessible Transportation:
- Anchorage’s public transportation system, People Mover, offers accessible buses with ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities.
- Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft also provide accessible vehicles for transportation around the city.
Overall, Anchorage provides a range of accommodation options to suit every budget, preference, and accessibility need, ensuring a pleasant stay for all travelers.
Transportation Options in Anchorage:
1. Airport Transfers:
- Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport is the main airport serving Anchorage. There are several transportation options available for travelers to get to and from the airport:
- Taxi: Taxis are readily available at the airport and offer a convenient way to reach your destination. The fare to downtown Anchorage is approximately $20-$30.
- Ride-Sharing: Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in Anchorage and are another convenient option for airport transfers.
- Airport Shuttle: Several companies provide shuttle services between the airport and hotels in Anchorage. It’s a cost-effective option for individuals and groups.
2. Public Transport:
- People Mover: Anchorage’s public transportation system is called the People Mover. It operates bus routes throughout the city and provides an affordable way to get around. Fares are $2 per ride, with discounts available for seniors and individuals with disabilities.
- Bus routes connect major areas of Anchorage, including downtown, the airport, and popular tourist attractions. Schedules and route maps are available on the People Mover website.
3. Senior and Disability Accessible Transportation:
- AnchorRIDES: AnchorRIDES is a paratransit service operated by the Municipality of Anchorage. It provides door-to-door transportation for seniors and individuals with disabilities who are unable to use fixed-route buses. Registration is required, and reservations need to be made in advance.
- People Mover’s buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and ramps, making them accessible for individuals with mobility challenges.
4. Navigating the City:
- Anchorage’s downtown area is easy to navigate on foot, with many attractions within walking distance of each other.
- If you’re exploring areas outside of downtown, consider renting a car for more flexibility.
- Use apps like Google Maps or the People Mover website for real-time bus schedules and route information.
- Keep in mind that winter weather can affect transportation services in Anchorage, so plan ahead and check for any service interruptions or delays.
Overall, Anchorage offers a range of transportation options to suit different preferences and needs, making it easier for visitors to explore the city and its surroundings.
1. Alaska Zoo: Home to over 100 different species from the Arctic and sub-Arctic region. Kids can see polar bears, moose, and other native Alaskan animals.
2. Anchorage Museum: Offers a range of interactive exhibits on Alaska’s history, art, culture, and science. There is a Discovery Center specifically designed for children.
3. Tony Knowles Coastal Trail: This popular trail is great for walking, biking, or rollerblading with the family. It offers stunning views of the mountains and coastline.
4. Alaska Botanical Garden: Explore the beautiful gardens filled with native plants and flowers. Kids can participate in various educational programs and activities.
5. KidZone Indoor Playground: A fun indoor play area with slides, tunnels, and climbing structures for children to enjoy.
6. H2Oasis Indoor Waterpark: This indoor waterpark offers slides, pools, and other water attractions for families to enjoy year-round.
7. Earthquake Park: Learn about the 1964 earthquake that devastated Anchorage at this historical park with informative displays and scenic views.
8. Campbell Creek Greenbelt: A great place for hiking, biking, or picnicking with the family. Keep an eye out for wildlife like moose and birds.
9. Ship Creek Fishing: Teach your kids how to fish at Ship Creek, where salmon runs bring in plenty of opportunities for catching fish.
10. Anchorage Coastal Wildlife Refuge: A great spot for birdwatching and wildlife viewing, with opportunities to see seals, sea otters, and various bird species.
Anchorage, Alaska offers a unique cultural experience with a mix of Native Alaskan, Russian, and American influences. Visitors can explore the Alaska Native Heritage Center to learn about the rich history and traditions of the indigenous peoples of the region. The Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center showcases local art and history, while the Alaska Native Medical Center offers a glimpse into Alaskan Native healing traditions.
One of the most popular local festivals is the Fur Rendezvous, a winter festival celebrating Alaskan culture through activities like dog sled races, fur auctions, and snow sculpture competitions. The Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, known as \"The Last Great Race,\" is another iconic event that draws visitors from all over the world.
For hidden gems, visitors can explore the Turnagain Arm Trail, a scenic hiking and biking trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and waterways. The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is another hidden gem where visitors can see native Alaskan wildlife up close, including bears, moose, and bald eagles.
In terms of nightlife, Anchorage offers a lively bar and restaurant scene, with many establishments serving up locally sourced seafood and craft beers. The downtown area has a variety of bars and clubs where visitors can enjoy live music and dancing. The Midnight Sun Brewing Company is a popular spot for craft beer enthusiasts, offering a range of unique brews.
For entertainment, visitors can catch a performance at the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts, which hosts a variety of cultural events, including concerts, theater productions, and dance performances. The Bear Tooth Theatrepub is another popular spot, offering a unique movie-going experience with food and drinks served right to your seat.
Overall, Anchorage offers a rich cultural experience, with a mix of local festivals, hidden gems, and nightlife options to suit every traveler’s interests.
1. **Budget-Friendly Restaurants**:
- **Snow City Cafe**: Known for their hearty breakfast and brunch options.
- **Moose’s Tooth Pub & Pizzeria**: Famous for their delicious pizzas and craft beers.
- **The Bear Tooth Grill**: Offers a variety of American comfort food at affordable prices.
2. **Fine Dining Restaurants**:
- **Simon & Seafort’s**: A waterfront restaurant known for its upscale seafood dishes and stunning views.
- **Ginger**: Offers an elegant dining experience with a focus on Asian fusion cuisine.
- **Seven Glaciers**: Located at the Alyeska Resort, this restaurant offers fine dining with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
3. **Allergy-Friendly Restaurants**:
- **Middle Way Cafe**: Offers a wide range of vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.
- **Terra Bella Cafe**: Focuses on organic and locally-sourced ingredients, with many allergy-friendly options.
- **Spenard Roadhouse**: Offers a variety of dishes that can be customized to accommodate various dietary restrictions.
4. **Dietary-Conscious Restaurants**:
- **Pho Lena**: Specializes in Vietnamese cuisine with many gluten-free and vegan options.
- **Fire Island Rustic Bakeshop**: Known for their artisan bread and pastries, with many options for those with dietary preferences.
- **Wild Scoops Ice Cream**: Offers a variety of unique and delicious ice cream flavors, including dairy-free and vegan options.
1. **Currency Exchange:** Most businesses in Anchorage accept major credit cards, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller transactions. You can exchange currency at banks, airport currency exchange counters, or use ATMs to withdraw local currency.
2. **Financial Tips:** Anchorage is a relatively expensive city, so it’s important to budget accordingly. Make sure to account for higher prices for food, accommodations, and activities compared to other parts of the U.S.
3. **Local Laws:** It’s important to familiarize yourself with local laws in Anchorage, particularly regarding alcohol consumption, smoking regulations, and wildlife protection. Alaska has strict laws against littering, disturbing wildlife, and driving under the influence.
4. **Customs and Etiquette:** In Anchorage, like the rest of Alaska, residents value personal space and independence. It’s important to be respectful of the local culture and way of life. When interacting with locals, be friendly, open-minded, and polite.
5. **Safety Advice:** Anchorage is generally a safe city, but it’s always important to stay vigilant, especially in tourist areas. Be cautious of your surroundings, keep your belongings secure, and avoid walking alone in poorly lit or unfamiliar areas, particularly at night.
6. **Outdoor Safety:** If you plan on exploring the Alaskan wilderness around Anchorage, make sure to be prepared for changing weather conditions, wildlife encounters, and remote locations. Always carry bear spray, a first aid kit, plenty of water, and let someone know your plans before heading out.
7. **Emergency Contacts:** In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. It’s also a good idea to have the contact information for your country’s embassy or consulate in case you need assistance while traveling in Anchorage.
8. **Weather Preparedness:** Anchorage experiences a wide range of weather conditions, from cold winters to mild summers. Make sure to pack appropriate clothing and gear for the season you’ll be visiting, and be prepared for sudden changes in weather.
9. **Responsible Tourism:** Be a responsible traveler in Anchorage by respecting the natural environment, wildlife, and local communities. Follow designated trails, dispose of waste properly, and support local businesses and cultural practices.
10. **Health and Medical Care:** Make sure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies when visiting Anchorage. It’s also a good idea to have any necessary medications and know the location of nearby hospitals or clinics in case of illness or injury.
