The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Anchorage: Top Things to Do and See

author on a mountain in the summer

When talking about Anchorage, locals often say, somewhat disparagingly, that it’s ten minutes from Alaska. I get where they’re coming from. Yes, Anchorage won’t win any awards for “best city.” It’s fairly devoid of culture, has very little of a downtown, somewhat high crime rates, and a lot of unattractive architecture. It’s true that few people go to Alaska specifically to visit Anchorage.

However, I also think Anchorage doesn’t get enough credit. It’s improving rapidly, boasts some amazing eateries, features 11,000 acres of city parks, and has some memorable cultural staples. And yes, it really is ten minutes from Alaska. Anywhere ten minutes from Alaska deserves your visit. Near Anchorage, you’ll find some of the most beautiful hikes in the world, abundant wildlife, mountainous landscapes crashing into the ocean, diverse marine life, and delicious wild-caught seafood. Perhaps most importantly, don’t forget the age-old Alaska adage: friends don’t let friends eat farmed fish.

Ready to plan an unforgettable trip to Anchorage? Whether you’re coming to hit the backpacking trails or you just want to see some wildlife, catch some fish, and eat some good food, here are my favorite food spots, things to do, and tips for my home city.

Best Time to Visit Anchorage

Anchorage has two distinct seasons: summer and winter. The obvious choice is to visit in the summer when there are between 20 and 22 hours of daylight. With so much sunlight, plants explode with rapid growth, creating vibrant green landscapes. Salmon run through rushing streams, moose and bears stock up before winter, birds chatter from every direction, and you essentially have all day and night to explore this vast wilderness.

On the other hand, winter offers its own unique experience. While it can be harsh, it’s not as dramatically cold as some more interior cities in the U.S. Temperatures range from -15°F to 30°F in the winter, making outdoor sports very enjoyable. You’ll find the nearby Alyeska ski resort, hundreds of miles of free, groomed cross-country ski trails within the city limits, opportunities for dog mushing, ice skating, northern lights viewing, hoar frost, and, best of all, it’s by far the cheapest time to visit.

Why don’t I mention spring and fall? Because spring and fall last for about a week in Anchorage.

Here are some additional pros and cons to consider:

Visiting Anchorage in the Summer:

• Pros:

• • Long daylight hours (up to 22 hours in June!).
  • Tons of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife tours.
  • Lush greenery, the State Fair, and vibrant city life.

• Cons:

• • Unpredictable weather makes rain and clouds likely
  • The most expensive time to come
  • Way too many mosquitos (especially in June and July)

Visiting Anchorage in the Winter:

• Pros:

• • The cheapest time to come
  • Lots of opportunities to see the northern lights
  • Lots of snow sports to enjoy
  • Incredibly beautiful winter landscapes
  • The Alyeska Ski Resort is open!

• Cons:
  • It’s very cold and packed with snow, making hiking and outdoor exploring difficult
  • Unpredictably, the weather will warm up into the mid-thirties, leaving Anchorage a dirty, slushy mess
  • Many of the seasonal tours and activities are closed

Top Things to Do in Anchorage

If you’re not into exploring the great outdoors, there’s probably no real reason to visit Anchorage. But if you are, you’ll find some of the most incredible views, treks, and adventures—all within a 15-minute drive of the city. However, there’s also plenty to do indoors on a rainy day.

Visit Anchorage’s Parks

Kincaid Park and the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail:

Walk, run, or bike along this classic Anchorage trail. The trail winds through Kincaid Park, which follows Anchorage’s coast and offers incredible views of the mountains and ocean.

Flattop Blueberry Loop:

Head to the Flattop parking lot, but instead of climbing the mountain, take the partially paved walking trail to the lookout for a beautiful view of Anchorage from above. You can turn back there (making it a 15-minute walk) or continue along the entire loop, which is about 1.5 miles long and takes you through stunning alpine meadows. In late summer, you can even find wild blueberries—if you beat the locals to them!

Hike The Chugach Mountains

Head up into the Chugach Mountains for hundreds of miles of hiking trails with absolutely epic views. One of the best parts of Anchorage is that, due to its northern and harsh climate, the tree line is at a very low elevation. Above approximately 2,500 feet, there are no trees to obstruct your view, making for stunning panoramas. For comparison, the tree line in California is around 10,000 feet, and in New York, it’s about 4,500 feet. Check out this guide for the full list of the best day hikes near Anchorage.

Flattop Mountain:

A short drive from downtown Anchorage to the Flattop Trailhead will take you to Anchorage’s most popular hike. This trail offers expansive views of Anchorage and the Chugach range. On a clear day, you can even see Denali, about 150 miles away. However, don’t underestimate this climb—it’s not easy. Every year, medevac teams rescue several hikers from the mountainside.

Symphony & Eagle Lake:

Starting at the South Fork Valley Trailhead, this is a 9-mile out-and-back trail with about 1,500 feet of elevation gain, making it a moderately difficult hike. You’ll walk through a glacial valley and cross a boulder field before reaching two breathtaking glacial lakes, perfect for picnics or camping.

Other Outdoor Things To Do

Watch the Bore Tide:

Anchorage has the second-fastest tide in the world. Head south along the Seward Highway to see the waters flood Turnagain Arm in a tidal wave-like motion. Check the tide schedule to time your visit perfectly. If you’re lucky, you might even spot beluga whales.

Ice Skating at Westchester Lagoon:

If you’re visiting Anchorage in the winter, head to this lake, where the city plows and polishes the ice, creating beautiful skating trails. When you’re done, warm up with soup, salad, and hot drinks at New Sagaya’s.

Wildlife Watching: The reality is you don’t need to go out of your way to find wildlife in Anchorage. Moose are often spotted wandering downtown, and bald eagles can frequently be seen perched on powerline poles. Local trails offer great opportunities to encounter both moose and bears, so always stay alert and follow wildlife safety guidelines. If you’re particularly eager to see bears, consider heading down to the Kenai Peninsula during the salmon runs. This is one of the best times and places to witness these incredible creatures fishing in their natural habitat.

Alaska Zoo:

Although I’m generally hesitant about zoos, Anchorage’s is excellent. The animals have plenty of space and are well cared for. I even volunteered there one summer! It’s a great day trip, and since it’s outdoors, it’s surprisingly pleasant even in the rain.

In-Door Experiences

Alaska Native Heritage Center:

Alaska is home to over 229 native tribes who lived here long before the first Russians arrived or gold and oil were discovered. The Alaska Native Heritage Center is a stunning exhibit showcasing the history, culture, and art of Alaska’s Indigenous peoples.

Anchorage Museum:

Alternatively, visit the Anchorage Museum, which features exhibits on Alaska’s history, art, and environment, along with trendy rotating exhibits.

Bear’s Tooth Theater:

One of my favorite rainy-day activities is catching a movie at Bear’s Tooth Theater. They show a mix of indie films and blockbusters (although not new releases), and you can order delicious food and beer from their restaurant, which is served to you at your personal movie theater table. You can also stop by just for the excellent pub food, even without seeing a movie.

See Alaska From The Air

Flightseeing Tours:

If you’re willing to splurge a bit, consider hiring a local operator for a flightseeing tour. You’ll fly over glaciers and incredible mountain ranges. Trusted companies include Rust’s Flying Service and Regal Air, with costs averaging around $200 per person per hour.

Where to Eat in Anchorage

Anchorage actually has a surprisingly great food scene, and it’s only getting better. If you’re into trying local cuisine, make sure to sample my favorite Alaskan delicacies: king salmon, halibut cheeks, and king crab.

Best Breakfast and Lunch Spots:

• Snow City Café: Hands down the best breakfast spot in Anchorage. Even Obama visited here when he came to Alaska. Expect a wait—about 30 minutes on weekdays and up to 90 minutes on weekends. While they don’t take reservations, you can book a spot in line on Yelp, provided you’re within 10 miles of the restaurant. While you wait, explore the Antique Gallery across the street, which has some incredible Alaskan art pieces.
• Middle Way Café: A brunch favorite, Middle Way offers delicious and healthy breakfast and lunch options. While you’re there, check out Tidal Wave Books next door, an amazing used bookstore.
• The City Diner: A retro spot for classic diner fare. They have great pancakes!
• Tommy’s Burger: Best burger spot in Anchorage, period. They’ve got character, tasty burgers, and great outdoor seating.

Best Dinner Spots:

• South: An upscale restaurant in south Anchorage with craft cocktails, a great brunch menu, and delicious dinner options featuring local dishes.
• Moose’s Tooth: Rated the 3rd best pizzeria in America, Moose’s Tooth is known for phenomenal pizza and craft brews. They don’t take reservations, so expect a wait—go early or late to beat the crowds.
• Spenard Roadhouse: One of my favorite dinner spots. The Roadhouse offers great drinks and hearty meals. Don’t miss their sweet potato tots with garlic aioli!
• Glacier Brewhouse: A pricier option, but worth it for Alaska’s favorite seafood dishes. They also have incredible brews to pair with your meal.

Best for Drinks:

• 49th State Brewing Company: The best bar in town, with fantastic beer and a stunning rooftop overlooking Cook Inlet. Perfect for sunset drinks.
• Darwin’s Theory: Anchorage’s iconic dive bar. Known for its quirky crowd, it lives up to the saying: “The odds are good, but the goods are odd.”

Best Coffee Spots:

• Kaladi Brothers Coffee: A local chain with cozy cafes and fantastic locally roasted coffee.
• The Writer’s Block: A quirky, super-cool coffee shop located in the up-and-coming Spenard area of Anchorage.
• Coffee Stands: Check out one of Alaska’s many famous drive-through coffee stands. They’re perfect for the cold winter months when the thought of getting out of your car strikes fear into even the hardiest winter spirit. Common Grounds is my personal favorite. Common Grounds is my favorite.
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Best Day Trips from Anchorage

You can make some great day trips out of Anchorage.

North of Anchorage

• Hatcher Pass: Drive about an hour north of Anchorage to Hatcher Pass and Independence Mine State Historical Park. Explore the historical gold mine, where many buildings have been preserved, and walk along the paved trails or visit the museum. For those seeking adventure, head into the mountains for incredible day hikes and backpacking trips. The nearby Reed Lakes Trail offers a moderately challenging hike, while the Bomber Traverse is a difficult but unforgettable backpacking experience. Don’t forget to stop by the Hatcher Pass Lodge for great food and drinks. The lodge was homesteaded and built by a gentleman in the 1950s. Although he sadly passed away last year, the lodge is still operational and worth a visit.

• Matanuska Glacier: Continue past Hatcher Pass for another hour, and you’ll reach Matanuska Glacier, a destination that’s absolutely worth your time if you’re seeking incredible glacier views. This massive glacier is stunningly accessible, and you can even take guided tours or trails that lead you right onto the ice for an up-close experience.

South of Anchorage

• Portage Glacier and Girdwood: Head about an hour south of Anchorage along Turnagain Arm, often considered one of the most beautiful highways in America. Stop in Girdwood, a charming town with lots of character. Hike the Winner Creek Trail, and then continue to Portage Glacier for close-up views of its stunning blue ice. Be cautious, though—this highway is also one of America’s most dangerous due to its narrow lanes, heavy RV traffic, and drivers distracted by the views.

• Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center: Located near Portage, this wildlife refuge is a must-see. Unlike a zoo, the center is home to animals that were sick, injured, or orphaned and now live in spacious enclosures. You can drive or walk through the center to see grizzly bears, wolves, musk oxen, and caribou. This is one of my favorite “touristy” activities in Alaska.

• Seward and the Alaska Sealife Center: Drive two hours south of Anchorage to Seward, a scenic coastal town with plenty to explore. Stroll through its art-filled streets, enjoy some local hikes, or visit the Alaska Sealife Center to learn about marine life. Seward is also the perfect place to book a wildlife viewing cruise if you’re interested in spotting whales, otters, and other sea creatures. There are several options, but prices are around $140 per person for a four-hour cruise.

Transportation and Getting Around Anchorage

• Car Rentals: Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore Anchorage and its surroundings. During the summer, demand is high, and prices can reach $150–$200 per day for last-minute rentals. To secure better rates, it’s advisable to book well in advance. Alternatively, consider using Turo, a peer-to-peer car-sharing platform that often offers more affordable options. You can also check out this article, where I share my tips for getting an affordable rental car in Anchorage.
• Public Transit: While Anchorage’s public transportation is limited, downtown areas are walkable, making it feasible to explore certain parts of the city on foot. A daily shuttle takes you from downtown Anchorage to the Flattop Trailhead if you don’t have a car and want to explore the mountains.
• EV Chargers: Anchorage provides several charging stations for electric vehicle (EV) drivers. The city has 18 public charging ports, with 44% of these stations offering free charging. You’ll definitely see some Teslas driving around. There is no supercharger in Anchorage, but there is one 20 miles north in Chugiak.

Backpacking in Anchorage

If you’re looking to do some trekking, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you want to stay local and explore the Chugach Mountains or head north to the Talkeetna Mountains (my personal favorite), there are endless backpacking trips to choose from. But be careful—backpacking in Alaska is not for the faint of heart.

Here are my favorite trips:

• Crow Pass – A 2-day, 1-night trip that takes you deep into the Chugach Mountains, allowing you to cross from Girdwood to Eagle River. Along the way, you’ll pass Raven Glacier and tackle an epic river crossing.
• Bomber Glacier Traverse – Located about an hour north of Anchorage, this is my absolute favorite trip I’ve ever done. You’ll spend 2–4 nights traversing the Talkeetna Mountains, crossing glaciers, and sleeping in quaint mountaineering huts. The hike earns its name from the wreckage of a B-22 bomber that still rests on one of the glaciers. This is a challenging route that requires strong navigation and hiking skills.
• Nearby Lakes – Any one of the alpine lakes in the Chugach mountains makes for an amazing 1- or 2-night backpacking trip. My favorites are Rabbit Lake, Williwaw Lakes, Symphony, and Eagle Lakes.

Best Places to Go After Anchorage

Anchorage is a great launching pad for other Alaskan adventures. From Anchorage, you can head either north or south:

• Talkeetna and Denali National Park: Head north to visit Denali National Park and the nearby charming town of Talkeetna. Talkeetna is the last stop for climbers attempting to summit North America’s tallest peak. Many of the local bars are filled with climbing memorabilia, and you’ll likely meet some weathered locals with incredible stories. Talkeetna also boasts a thriving artist scene, making it a unique stop on your journey.

• Fairbanks: Continue north past Denali for another two hours to Fairbanks. Fairbanks is more of a winter destination, as the summer months can be hot and filled with mosquitoes. In winter, however, Fairbanks transforms into one of the coldest cities on Earth, with temperatures dropping as low as -60°F. It’s also one of the best places in Alaska to view the northern lights. A visit to Chena Hot Springs is a must—while you relax in the outdoor pools, your hair and eyelashes will freeze within seconds, only to thaw when you dip back into the warm water. The experience alone makes the trip worth it. You can also hire a musher to take you dog mushing, also an absolute must.

• Homer and the Kenai Peninsula: Head south to Homer, a local favorite with an iconic spit and boardwalk, delicious food and brews, and plenty of galleries. Stop by the Salty Dawg Saloon and grab one of their famous sweatshirts to fit right in. From Homer, you can charter a fishing trip or head across the bay to the beautiful communities of Halibut Cove and Soldotna.

Insider Tips for Visiting Anchorage

• Visit the Alaska State Fair: Held annually in late August near Palmer, this fair features local crafts, food, and entertainment. Thanks to the extended summer daylight, Alaskan vegetables grow to enormous sizes—don’t miss the pumpkins the size of cars!

• Check Out The Iditarod: If you’re in Anchorage on March 1, head to downtown Anchorage for the ceremonial start of the historic Iditarod dog sledding race. Spanning 1,000 miles from Anchorage to Nome, this iconic event takes mushers and their teams through the heart of winter. Victors typically finish in about nine days. Don’t worry—mushers take excellent care of their dogs, and the dogs truly love running the race.

• Northern Lights Viewing: If you’re visiting Anchorage in the winter, you can check NOAA’s website to see the probability of an aurora on any given night. For the best viewing, I recommend heading up to the Flattop parking lot to escape the city lights. Don’t forget to bundle up in warm clothes and bring a thermos of hot cocoa!

• Stay Bear Aware: Respect wildlife and always carry bear spray on hikes. You can often score a free can from travelers leaving Alaska—check out this Facebook group for leads.

Conclusion

Anchorage is truly one of the most unique cities in the world. It is more than just a gateway city to Alaska—it has some amazing offerings of its own. While I usually recommend people head there in the summer, if you’re brave, a winter expedition can be well worth it. Whether winter or summer, make sure while you’re there to grab yourself a reindeer dog, sign up for a polar plunge, and go bag some local peaks (and bring a summit beer!).