10 Best Things to Do in Anchorage: Alaska’s Top Spots
Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city, is a blend of urban comfort and wild adventure. With 290,000 residents, it sits where the Chugach Mountains meet Cook Inlet. This guide explores Anchorage’s top attractions and activities.
The city offers world-class museums and breathtaking outdoor activities. It’s perfect for wildlife spotting, Native Alaskan culture, and thrilling adventures. Anchorage serves as an ideal basecamp for exploring Alaska’s wonders.
Our list features 10 must-do activities in Anchorage. These showcase the city’s natural beauty, rich history, and diverse culture. From hiking in Chugach State Park to seeing the Northern Lights, unforgettable experiences await.
Explore the Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center
The Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center is Alaska’s largest museum. It showcases the state’s rich cultural heritage through history, art, and science. The modern glass-fronted building is a must-see for Anchorage sightseers.
Discover Alaskan History and Culture
The Art of the North galleries display Alaska’s raw beauty in paintings, sculptures, and photographs. The Smithsonian Arctic Studies Center is the museum’s crown jewel. It features over 600 Alaska Native cultural artifacts on loan from the Smithsonian Institution.
Engage with Interactive Exhibits
The Discovery Center offers fun for all ages. It boasts 80 kid-friendly science exhibits that spark curiosity and learning. Most visitors spend two to four hours exploring the museum’s highlights.
The museum provides year-round experiences for everyone. Summer brings free daily tours, while winter offers special events. These include $5 admission on Third Thursdays and free entry on First Fridays.
Don’t skip the museum store, which sells unique souvenirs made by local and Indigenous artists. For a taste of Alaska, visit the full-service restaurant or Atrium Cafรฉ.
Visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is a top Anchorage attraction. This 200-acre sanctuary lies an hour southeast of Anchorage. It houses injured and orphaned Alaskan wildlife, offering education and entertainment.
Observe Native Alaskan Wildlife
Explore the 1.5-mile scenic loop to see Alaska’s iconic animals. You might spot bison, bears, moose, and wolves. Spacious enclosures allow these creatures to roam in natural-like habitats.
Fun for the Whole Family
The center is open year-round with varying schedules. Adult admission is $27, youth (4-12) $22, and free for children under 3. Alaska residents and military personnel get discounts.
For a closer look, try the Exclusive Walk on the Wild Side Tour. This 1.5-hour guided adventure is limited to 10 people. It offers deep insights into the center’s conservation work.
The AWCC aims to raise $5 million for a new rescue facility. This will boost their ability to help more animals. The center provides a unique chance to see Alaska’s wild residents up close.
Hike Flattop Mountain
Flattop Mountain is a crown jewel of Anchorage outdoor recreation. It offers challenging trails and breathtaking vistas just 15 miles from downtown Anchorage. This popular destination in Chugach State Park features a thrilling 3.3-mile round trip hike.
Scenic Views of Anchorage
The 1,430-foot climb to the summit rewards hikers with stunning panoramic views. You’ll see Anchorage, Cook Inlet, and sometimes even Denali on clear days.
The trail winds through a mountain hemlock grove. In summer, it showcases vibrant yellow, white, and purple wildflowers.
Tips for Your Hiking Adventure
Before hiking Flattop Mountain, consider these essential tips:
- Allow 1-2 hours for the hike, depending on your pace and fitness level
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes to navigate loose rocks and steep sections
- Bring water, snacks, and layers for changing weather conditions
- Arrive early to secure parking at the Glen Alps Trailhead ($5 fee required)
- Be prepared for a challenging scramble in the final 0.5 miles to the summit
The Flattop Mountain Shuttle runs daily from May 15 to September 15. It provides transportation and expert insights for your Anchorage adventure.
Flattop Mountain suits both seasoned hikers and families seeking memorable outings. It offers an unforgettable taste of Alaska’s natural beauty.
Stroll Through Kincaid Park
Kincaid Park is a gem in Anchorage’s outdoor scene. This 1,500-acre oasis blends nature and adventure seamlessly. It’s a top spot for exciting anchorage activities.
Outdoor Activities and Recreational Opportunities
Kincaid Park offers 35 to 40 miles of diverse trails. Hikers, bikers, and winter sports fans love these paths. The Kincaid Bluff Trail is a 6-mile loop with a 300-foot climb.
In winter, the park becomes a snowy wonderland. It has 12 to 15 miles of lit, groomed ski trails. A popular sledding hill adds to the fun.
Soccer enthusiasts can enjoy seven regulation-size fields. For motorsport fans, there’s the 11-acre Jodphur Motocross Track.
Wildlife Viewing and Photography Spots
Kincaid Park is a wildlife lover’s dream. It’s home to over 100 bird species and various mammals. The park offers many chances to spot animals.
Photographers will love the park’s unique landscapes. A 40-foot sand dune and coastal trails provide stunning backdrops.
Kincaid Park captures the essence of anchorage outdoor recreation. Hiking, biking, or picnicking at one of ten areas are popular. This urban wilderness promises memorable experiences for everyone.
Experience the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail
The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is a top spot for Anchorage sightseeing and outdoor fun. This 11-mile paved path blends city ease with nature’s beauty. It’s a must-see for locals and tourists alike.
Biking and Walking Trails
The trail links over 40 miles of paths and seven city parks. It’s perfect for biking, walking, and inline skating. Nine trailheads with parking make access easy.
Bike rentals are available from May through September. This caters to visitors wanting two-wheeled adventures.
Spotting Local Wildlife
As you explore, watch for diverse wildlife. Moose sightings are common, especially near Kincaid Park. Westchester Lagoon is great for birdwatching.
It’s a 15-minute walk from downtown. You can see shorebirds, waterfowl, and majestic eagles there.
| Trail Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | 11 miles |
| Connected Parks | 7 |
| Total Connected Trails | Over 40 miles |
| Trailheads with Parking | 9 |
| Bike Rental Season | May – September |
The trail offers stunning views of Cook Inlet. On clear days, you might even see Denali. Don’t skip Earthquake Park, which honors the 1964 quake that changed Anchorage.
This trail mixes natural wonders with city closeness. It’s the best of Anchorage outdoor recreation in one place.
Check Out the Anchorage Market and Festival
The Anchorage Market and Festival is a top spot for experiencing the best of Anchorage entertainment. It’s Alaska’s largest open-air market, running weekends from mid-May through early September. This vibrant hub showcases local culture and commerce.
Local Vendors and Fresh Produce
Over 100 vendors offer a variety of Alaskan-made goods and fresh produce. Visitors can explore stalls with local vegetables, handcrafted items, and unique Alaskan souvenirs. The market operates Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Arts, Crafts, and Live Music
The Anchorage Market and Festival is a key player in local events. It showcases work from artists, including intricate beadwork and hand-carved wooden pieces. Live music performances add to the lively atmosphere, making it perfect for locals and tourists alike.
For year-round market experiences, visit the Center Market on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Anchorage also offers numerous farmers’ markets throughout the year. These markets provide fresh produce and handmade crafts in this vibrant Alaskan city.
Discover the Alaska Native Heritage Center
The Alaska Native Heritage Center (ANHC) is a top Anchorage attraction. It offers a deep look into Alaska’s indigenous cultures. Since 1999, this cultural hub has welcomed over a million guests.
Learn About Indigenous Cultures
At the center, you’ll see six life-sized Native dwellings around Lake Tiulana. Each structure represents a different Alaska Native group. The ANHC showcases Alaska’s 11 major cultural groups through exhibits and programs.
Native Performances and Crafts
The center features Native performances, traditional games, and artist demonstrations. In the Ch’k’iqadi Gallery, you can buy authentic Alaska Native art. Plan to spend at least 90 minutes here.
Many visitors stay for up to four hours. Summer admission is $29 for adults, with discounts for various groups. The ANHC is just a 10-minute drive from downtown Anchorage.
FAQ
What’s the best time of year to visit Anchorage?
The ideal time to visit Anchorage is from May to September. During these months, temperatures are milder and daylight hours are longer. Summer offers more activities, while winter provides northern lights viewing and winter sports.
Are there any guided tours available for exploring Anchorage’s attractions?
Anchorage offers a wide variety of guided tours. You can choose from city sightseeing, wildlife viewing, hiking adventures, and cultural experiences. Many tour operators provide packages that combine multiple attractions.
Can I see the Northern Lights from Anchorage?
Seeing the Northern Lights from Anchorage is possible, but not guaranteed. The best viewing time is from late August to mid-April. For better chances, consider tours to areas with less light pollution.
What outdoor activities are available in Anchorage during winter?
Anchorage has plenty of winter activities to enjoy. You can go skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, dog sledding, snowshoeing, and fat-tire biking. Many local parks and nearby resorts offer these exciting winter sports.
Are there any free attractions or activities in Anchorage?
Anchorage offers several free attractions and activities. You can hike Flattop Mountain, explore Kincaid Park, or walk the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. The Alaska Public Lands Information Center provides free educational exhibits about Alaska’s resources.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in and around Anchorage?
Anchorage and its surroundings are home to diverse wildlife. You might spot moose, bears, bald eagles, and beluga whales in Cook Inlet. The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center guarantees wildlife viewing opportunities.
Is it possible to take day trips from Anchorage to other parts of Alaska?
Anchorage is a great starting point for day trips. You can visit Seward for glacier and wildlife cruises. Take the Alaska Railroad to Talkeetna for Denali views. Explore the scenic Turnagain Arm along the Seward Highway.
