Anchorage, Alaska: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Are you ready for an unforgettable Alaskan adventure? Anchorage is the gateway to the Last Frontier. It's a place where city life meets wild nature. This city is perfect for anyone wanting a real Alaskan experience.

You can see iconic moose and bears, go on glacier cruises, and learn about Alaska Native culture. Anchorage has many amazing things to do that will amaze you.

Key Takeaways

• Anchorage is a hub for outdoor adventures, with easy access to magnificent scenery and wildlife
• Discover the city's rich history, diverse culture, and endless opportunities for exploration
• Spot iconic Alaskan wildlife like moose and bears, and experience Alaska Native heritage
• Cruise to glaciers, hike through stunning landscapes, and immerse yourself in the local arts and culture
• Anchorage offers a unique blend of urban amenities and access to the great outdoors

Discover Anchorage's Iconic Wildlife

Anchorage, Alaska, is a place where city life meets the wild. It's famous for its wildlife, like moose and bears. These animals are a big draw for visitors.

Spot Moose in the Heart of the City

There are over a thousand moose in Anchorage. You can often see them walking around the city. For a sure moose sighting, visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center or the Alaska Zoo. There, you can see these big animals up close.

Bear Viewing Tours from Anchorage

For an exciting wildlife adventure, try a bear viewing tour from Anchorage. Go to Katmai National Park or Lake Clark National Park. There, you can see big brown bears eating salmon in the wild. These tours are a unique chance to see these amazing animals.

"Observing Alaska's wildlife in their natural environment is a truly humbling and awe-inspiring experience. It's a chance to connect with the raw beauty of this vast, untamed land."

Whether you're seeing moose in the city or going on a bear tour, Anchorage's Anchorage wildlife, moose spotting, and bear viewing tours will make your trip unforgettable.

Explore Glaciers and Icy Landscapes

Anchorage is close to stunning glaciers and icy landscapes, perfect for exploring. You can take day cruises to see tidewater glaciers up close. Or, go on shorter trips to view the ice right in front of you. These options let you experience Alaska's glacial beauty during your Anchorage trip.

Cruises to Glaciers and Wildlife Habitats

Start a day cruise from Whittier or Seward to see tidewater glaciers in Prince William Sound and Kenai Fjords National Park. You might see seals, sea otters, and whales as you watch the glaciers. For a shorter trip, the 1-hour Portage Glacier Cruise gets you closer to the ice.

From Anchorage, you can easily visit some of Alaska's most impressive glaciers. See the huge Matanuska Glacier or the beautiful Mendenhall Glacier near Juneau. Whether you like relaxing cruises or adventurous hikes, these glaciers will amaze you with their beauty.

"Alaska is estimated to have around 34,000 square miles of glaciers, making it a true winter wonderland for visitors."

Experience Alaska Native Culture

Anchorage is a place where you can dive deep into Alaska Native culture. It's in the traditional lands of the Dena'ina Athabascan people. The Alaska Native Heritage Center is a key spot for this cultural journey. It's known for showing the traditions and histories of Indigenous communities in the state.

Alaska Native Heritage Center

At the Alaska Native Heritage Center, you start a journey through art, dance, and stories of Alaska's First Peoples. You'll see everything from detailed carvings to colorful textiles. These pieces tell the stories of the Dena'ina Athabascan people and other important groups.

There are interactive demos, cultural shows, and chances to learn about Alaska Native communities. The center works hard to keep and share these traditions. It's a top spot for anyone wanting to learn more about Alaska's Indigenous roots.

"The Alaska Native Heritage Center is a place to learn, explore, and honor the vibrant cultures and histories of Alaska's first inhabitants. It's a window into the rich diversity that has shaped this land for millennia."

If you love Alaska Native art, dance, or languages, this center is for you. It offers a deep dive into the cultures and stories of Alaska's First Peoples. You'll leave with a new respect for their strength and legacy.

Ride the Alaska Railroad

Exploring Alaska's stunning landscapes is enchanting on the Alaska Railroad. This historic rail network connects the state's top spots since 1923. It offers a unique way to see the region's natural wonders.

The Alaska Railroad has several popular routes. These include the Coastal Classic from Anchorage to Seward and the Glacier Discovery from Anchorage to Whittier. You can also take the Hurricane Turn from Talkeetna or the Denali Star from Anchorage to Fairbanks.

These routes let you see breathtaking glaciers, wildlife, and mountains. They give you a front-row seat to Alaska's most stunning sights.

The Denali Star train is perfect for a long rail trip. It goes from Anchorage to Fairbanks in 11.5 hours. Stops include Wasilla, Talkeetna, and Denali National Park.

On the train, you can pick from different cars. The dome cars offer panoramic views of the landscapes.

Riding the Alaska Railroad is unforgettable for both first-timers and Alaska lovers. With daily summer departures and various ticket options, you can tailor your trip. It's a great way to make lasting memories.

Anchorage, Alaska: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Anchorage is the biggest city in Alaska and is full of activities for visitors. You can see wildlife, go on outdoor adventures, or enjoy cultural experiences. It's a great place to start an amazing Alaskan trip.

Spotting moose in Anchorage is a must-do. The Flattop Mountain at Glen Alps is a popular spot, with a 1.5-mile hike to the top. From there, you can see the city and the Chugach Mountains. The Flattop Mountain Shuttle offers round-trip rides from downtown Anchorage for just $22.

The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is great for Anchorage sightseeing. It stretches 11 miles and shows off the city, mountains, Mount McKinley, and Fire Island. You can rent bikes and enjoy the ride.

The Anchorage attractions also include the Alaska Zoo and the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts. The Chugach State Park is huge, with lots of wildlife, glaciers, trails, and ski areas. It's perfect for outdoor fun.

In Anchorage, you can see moose, go to glaciers, learn about Alaska Native culture, or take a train ride. It's a great place to dive into Alaska's nature and culture.

Outdoor Adventures Near Anchorage

Just a short drive from Anchorage, you'll find endless opportunities for Anchorage outdoor adventures. Chugach State Park, one of the largest state parks in the country, offers miles of hiking trails through the Chugach mountain range. For a true glacier experience, head to Matanuska Glacier, where you can go ice climbing, rafting, or even try out Alaska's fastest zipline. With guided activities available, visitors of all skill levels can explore these incredible natural landscapes near Anchorage.

Hiking in Chugach State Park

Chugach State Park is just minutes from downtown Anchorage and is a hiker's dream. It has over 495,000 acres of untouched wilderness and trails for everyone. You can hike the challenging Flattop Mountain or the scenic Crow Pass trail. You'll see snow-capped peaks, alpine lakes, and diverse wildlife. Don't miss the chance to see the stunning beauty of Chugach State Park on your Anchorage trip.

Matanuska Glacier Adventures

For a unique glacial experience, go to the Matanuska Glacier, 95 miles northeast of Anchorage. It's the largest glacier in Alaska you can drive to. You can go ice climbing, trekking through ice caves, or zip line over the icy landscape. It's perfect for both experienced adventurers and first-timers. The Matanuska Glacier promises an unforgettable experience with Alaska's nature.

"Anchorage is the perfect base for outdoor enthusiasts, with stunning natural landscapes just a short drive away. From the vast Chugach State Park to the mighty Matanuska Glacier, the opportunities for adventure are endless."

Flightseeing and Backcountry Fishing

Anchorage, Alaska, is a top spot for outdoor fun. You can enjoy Anchorage flightseeing and Anchorage backcountry fishing here. Imagine flying over stunning landscapes and then fishing in the quiet wilderness.

With the busiest floatplane base in the world, Anchorage makes it easy to see the sky. You'll see glaciers, mountains, and untouched areas from above. Anchorage flightseeing tours cost between $299 and $675 per person. They last from 30 minutes to 5 hours.

For a real Alaskan adventure, try Anchorage flightseeing and Anchorage backcountry fishing together. You'll land in beautiful spots and fish for salmon and trout. These fly-in fishing trips start at $450 for a full day.

Enjoy the views from above or catch a big fish in a hidden stream. Anchorage gives you a chance to dive into Alaska's beauty. Don't miss out on an Anchorage flightseeing and Anchorage backcountry fishing trip for an unforgettable Alaskan adventure.

Discover Anchorage's Arts and Culture

Anchorage is the biggest city in Alaska and a lively center for arts and culture. At its core is the Anchorage Museum, the biggest museum in the state. It lets visitors dive into Alaska's rich history, see diverse Native art, and explore works by local artists. You'll learn about the stories that have shaped this amazing place.

Outside the museum, Anchorage's streets are filled with galleries and shops. They show off the amazing work of Alaskan artists and craftspeople. You can find everything from Native carvings and weavings to modern paintings. Whether you're at the Anchorage Market and Festival or walking downtown, you'll find lots of ways to enjoy the Anchorage arts and culture.

Anchorage Museum

The Anchorage Museum is a top spot for those wanting to dive into Alaska's history, art, and culture. It's the biggest museum in the state and has a huge collection. You'll see everything from Native Alaskan traditions to modern stories of exploration.

Visitors can check out amazing exhibits. They range from traditional Native Alaskan art to modern works that show Alaska's changing identity.

"The Anchorage Museum is a true gem, offering a window into the vibrant and fascinating world of Alaskan culture. It's a place where the past and present seamlessly intertwine, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for the unique spirit of this remarkable state."

Scenic Drives and Natural Wonders

When you visit Anchorage, Alaska, don't miss out on the scenic drives and natural wonders. The Anchorage scenic drives show off amazing views. You can see local wildlife and enjoy the wild beauty of the state.

Turnagain Arm Bore Tide

The Turnagain Arm is a must-see in Anchorage. It's known for the bore tide, a powerful wave that goes for miles. This wave can be up to 6 feet high and is a sight to see.

Beluga Point is the best place to watch this. You might also see beluga whales there.

The Seward Highway runs along the Turnagain Arm. It shows off mountains, glaciers, and wildlife. This drive, about 127 miles long, is a top choice for visitors.

"The drive along Turnagain Arm is one of the most scenic in the world. The combination of towering mountains, glaciers, and the ever-changing tides is truly awe-inspiring."

There are more scenic routes in Anchorage too. The Parks Highway, Glenn Highway, and Arctic Valley Road each have their own unique beauty. They offer great chances for exploration.

Looking for stunning mountain views, wildlife, or natural wonders like the bore tide? Anchorage's scenic drives won't disappoint on your Alaskan trip.

Conclusion

Anchorage, Alaska, is a unique mix of city life and nature's wonders. You can see moose and bears, go to glaciers, learn about Alaska Native culture, and take scenic drives. It's the best place to start an amazing Alaskan journey.

Looking for adventure, culture, or stunning views? Anchorage has it all. Its lively downtown, deep history, and stunning nature make it the perfect spot to explore Alaska's beauty.

From the Chugach Mountains to the Matanuska Glacier, and from Resurrection Bay to the Alaska Railroad, Anchorage has many exciting things to do. It's perfect for nature lovers, culture seekers, or anyone wanting an unforgettable trip. Anchorage will surely make a big impact on you.