Location: Anchorage
Top Things to do in Anchorage
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Top 10 Things to do in Anchorage, United States
Set amid the coastal Chugach Mountains, Anchorage defies popular visions of polar ice caps and frozen tundra. It’s also warmer than you think (averaging 65 degrees in summer), making conditions ideal for sight-seeing or taking on uniquely Alaskan opportunities like arctic biking or touring the fjords of Prince William Sound. In the winter, you can ski, dogsled or do both simultaneously by "skijoring," which is cross-country skiing while being towed by a dog. Hey, it's no crazier a winter sport than the biathlon.
Restaurants in Anchorage
1. Eagle River Nature Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 202 reviews
This nature center offers hiking trails and guided walking tours.
Reviewed By aa10119 - Eagle River, Alaska
The ER Nature Center is located at one of the north entrances to Chugach State Park near the source of Eagle River. The back range of the Chugach Mountains forms an exquisite background for some stunning views. The trails are well marked and offer hiking experiences for hikers at all levels. The Nature Center is a must see for all visitors seeking to see Alaska at its most dramatic and beautiful.
2. Paint a Scarf Alaska
Overall Ratings
5 based on 99 reviews
Paint the northern lights on a silk scarf. It's easy - no artistic skill required. Perfect for beginners. At Paint a Scarf Alaska you'll enjoy: • A relaxing time of painting by a rushing mountain stream • Friendly instruction from professional silk artist Gina Murrow • A tour of Gina's log cabin chalet with its loft studio and soaring rock fireplace • Breathtaking mountain views • Unlimited refreshments and Alaskan High Tea service • A memorable time with friends and family We meet in a traditional Alaskan log home on a bubbling creek - just 30 minutes from downtown Anchorage. On sunny days we paint by the creek. When it's chilly we paint indoors next to a soaring rock fireplace. Your three-hour experience includes instruction, supplies and Alaskan High Tea - a light meal featuring salad, mini-sandwiches, refreshments and cookies hot from the oven. Great for families and friends to enjoy together. Go home with a scarf to wear - and a story to tell. Paint a Scarf is open six days a week all summer long (closed Sunday). We offer a midday session from noon to 3 p.m., and a Midnight Sun session from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Minimum of 2 painters required. We are located in Chugiak just off the North Birchwood exit, just half an hour from downtown Anchorage.
Reviewed By Patti S
My husband and I did the "Pub Night'' at the Hilton in Anchorage. We had so much fun. It was easier than I thought it would be. These ladies are super friendly and super helpful. I would recommend doing this! The scarves turned out beautifully!
3. Winner Creek Trail Hand Tram
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 147 reviews
Reviewed By jejeanne - Oahu
This trail is easy, and a lovely soft trail being in the rainforest like element. Now, I’ll say this, the trail lengths noted are deceiving. If you do the full and entire trail you are looking at close to 10miles. That includes the trails, tram and road coming back to the hotel.
4. Byron Glacier Trail
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 150 reviews
Reviewed By Koyangi - Michigan
The trail is well-maintained, fairly flat, and only a mile one-way, so if you can walk a mile, there is no reason not to check this out. Beautiful hike, and the glacier (even though mostly melted in September) and view of the mountains at the end is spectacular- feels like you're in Middle Earth. Easy trip and pretty drive from Anchorage.
5. Portage Glacier
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 795 reviews
A popular tourist attraction.
Reviewed By Decemberborn - Kent, Washington
Came upon this little gem by accident. Our daughter was in Anchorage for a short amount of time and we were going to try and take her to see a glacier. We didn't have enough time or $ to see the ones out of Whittier and the hotel recommended somewhere else which we decided not to do. Found a brochere in the hotel lobby on this and gave them a call. We drove down there from Anchorage and picked up our tickets.
It was a short drive to the parking lot which had plenty of parking. We boarded and sat inside because it was a little breezy. Did have someone on board narrating which I personally could have done with out, but think it was required. Boat ride was real smooth despite the wind. Once the glacier came into view most people went upstairs to get a better glimpse of it. Although it was cold and windy we were able to actually see the glacier calving. There was a hands on of ice pulled out of the lake.
Not much else to do here other than the cruise to the lake and walk/drive to the visitor center.
6. Cook Inlet
Overall Ratings
5 based on 504 reviews
Reviewed By RDWNG1 - Wasilla, Alaska
This is one of the most scenic drives in the state. If heading from Anchorage to Seward the mountains are on your left and the inlet is on your right. You may see eagles, belugas, and even sheep of the mountain climbing variety. Watch out for oncoming traffic as people tend to get impatient on the drive.
7. Alaska Railroad
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1 reviews
Completed in 1923, the iconic Alaska Railroad connects many of Alaska's most popular destinations: Anchorage, Talkeetna, Denali National Park, Fairbanks, Girdwood, Seward, Whittier and the Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop. Daily summer departures and our knowledgeable Alaskan reservationists make it easy to plan everything from day trips to multi-day Alaska vacations including excursions and accommodations -- all using the Alaska Railroad to traverse this great land. Choose from two classes of passenger service: comfortable Adventure Class seating offering large picture windows, or premium GoldStar Service featuring glass-dome ceilings, all-inclusive dining and an outdoor, upper-level viewing platform. Come see why our authentic Alaskan hospitality and incredible scenery draws thousands of passengers yearly!
Reviewed By Kbwhat
We did a tour out of Fairbanks up to Denali. The trip up was by van and then back on train to Fairbanks. Though there was a bit of confusion with our seats, the train staff were courteous and anxious to make sure we were good with everything. This is my second time using the Alaska railroad and their service is beyond excellent in customer satisfaction!
8. Alyeska Aerial Tram
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 934 reviews
Reviewed By Jake G - Palmer, Alaska
Some friends were visiting Alaska last summer and I suggested that we head south for a drive along the Turnagain Arm for the SPECTACULAR view it offers along the Seward Highway. After venturing along the twists and turns of the road and stopping to take copious amounts of pictures, we pulled into Girdwood for lunch and were pleasantly surprised to find the Alyeska Aerial Tram was operating. A trip to the top was one of the highlights of their visit!
Located 45 minutes south of Anchorage (by car), the Alyeska Aerial Tram climbs 2025 feet above the sleepy town of Girdwood into the Chugach Mountain Range along 3869 feet (1179 meters) of cable to the top of Mt. Alyeska. Two cars hold up to 60 passengers each and run opposite of each other (one starts at the top while the other starts at the bottom, passing each other at the halfway point) at a speed of up to 26 miles per hour. In the winter, it serves as one of the major ski lifts for the Alyeska Resort and in the summer, it serves as a slow-moving scenic ride that operates at half-speed. Riding on a clear day offers unbelievable views and pictures to last a lifetime! Moose, bears, glaciers, Turnagain Arm, the Chugach Moutain range, airplanes, boats, plant-life and other Alaskan goodies are possible to see from the top. Once you reach the summit, you have access to two different observation decks and numerous hiking trails (summer months only). Bathrooms are available in the Upper Tram Terminal, as is the Bore Tide Deli & Bar should you get hungry. Recently remodeled into a rustic, vintage-feeling establishment, Bore Tide offers 10 different hot and cold sandwiches (the Crab Salad Sandwich and French Dip with Au Jus are absolutely wonderful), plus a modest selection of 8 "bar snacks" (appetizers), including soups, salads, sliders, hot dogs, cheeses, hummus and more. A nice selection of cocktails, wines and beers will appeal to those looking for a more adult beverage fare.
The ride on the Tram itself is wonderful, at 7 minutes up and down in the summer (4 minutes or so in the winter), but the view from the top is the unmatched. Check the weather before you go; the tram shuts down during moderate-to-high wind periods. Also, you want to go up on a nice, clear day with cloud ceilings above 2500 feet to get the best views (though it's cool going up when ceilings are lower, as it's fun to be in the clouds!). Highly recommended for local Alaskans, skiers, and especially for visiting tourists! Bring your cameras!
9. Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2 reviews
The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (AWCC) is a sanctuary dedicated to preserving Alaska’s wildlife through conservation, research, education and quality animal care. AWCC takes in injured and orphaned animals year-round and provides spacious enclosures and quality animal care. Animals that cannot be released into the wild are given a permanent home at the center. We have been able to provide care for hundreds of displaced animals because visitors like you have made critical contributions in the form of admission fees, donations, memberships, and gift shop. Please visit our website for more information on how you can help us make a difference.
Reviewed By CDMVaBeach - VIRGINIA BEACH
The AWCC is the place to see Alaskan wildlife without having to hunt for wildlife. The animals are treated well and in good, natural habitats. These animals would otherwise had not made it in the wild due to injuries and illnesses. All look healthy and content. The area can be driven or walked through. The gift shop is great too. Photo opportunities abound with wood bison, wolves, brown and black bear, caribou, moose, elk, deer, linx, musk ox, etc. The only thing missing was a polar bear! About 3 free eagles were sitting in trees as well. Great scenic location and beautiful mountain backdrops. I highly recommend supporting the Center and visiting these animals.
10. Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race
Overall Ratings
5 based on 284 reviews
Reviewed By trudyoz - Melbourne, Australia
I guess this is a specialist area of interest, for me it was why I came to Anchorage and will move on to Nome for the finish. If you are in Anchorage the first weekend in March make sure you witness this event, it is full of fun and energy. The mushers are friendly and ready to chat. It is wonderful seeing the teams race down 4th Avenue during the ceremonial start to this gruelling event that will last for about 9 or 10 days for the winning musher to arrive in Nome. The day after the ceremonial start in Anchorage the official start will commence about 30 miles north in Willow. I was lucky to be able to witness both of these events and will be in Nome for the finish. The Fur Rhondy is also on in Anchorage for the two or so weeks leading up to the Iditarod start so plenty to do and see here. Anchorage is abuzz for iditarod. If you do come don't miss the running of the reindeer at 4pm after the official start which is at 10am.
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