Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska and is surrounded by beautiful mountains, glaciers, and wildlife. It is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, foodies, and history buffs alike.
1. Tony Knowles Coastal Trail
Image Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tony_Knowles_Coastal_Trail
This 11-mile trail runs along the coastline and offers stunning views of the mountains and the ocean. It’s a great place for a leisurely walk or bike ride, and there are plenty of benches and picnic areas along the way.
2. Chugach State Park
Image Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chugach_State_Park
This massive park covers over 500,000 acres and is home to glaciers, mountains, and wildlife. It’s a great place for hiking, camping, and skiing.
3. Native Heritage Center
Image Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alaska_Native_Heritage_Center
This cultural center showcases the diverse cultures of Alaska’s Native people through exhibits, performances, and demonstrations. It’s a great place to learn about the history and traditions of Alaska’s Indigenous communities.
4. Kincaid Park
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Kincaid Park is a 1,500-acre park located in southwest Anchorage, Alaska Kincaid Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities throughout the year. In the summer, visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, disc golf, and beachcombing along the park’s scenic coastline. In the winter, the park transforms into a winter wonderland, with opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and fat tire biking.
5. Aviation Museum
Image Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alaska_Aviation_Museum
This museum is located on the shores of Lake Hood, the busiest seaplane base in the world. Visitors can learn about the history of aviation in Alaska and see a variety of aircraft on display.
6. Botanical Garden
Image Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alaska_Botanical_Garden
This botanical garden is located in east Anchorage and features a wide range of plants and flowers that are native to Alaska. Visitors can take guided tours and learn about the unique ecology of the region.
7. Anchorage Brewing Company
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This craft brewery is located in midtown Anchorage and offers a wide range of locally brewed beers. Visitors can sample the beer in the taproom or take a brewery tour to learn about the brewing process.
8. Earthquake Park
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Earthquake Park is a park located in Anchorage, Alaska, that commemorates the 1964 Great Alaska Earthquake. The earthquake, which occurred on March 27, 1964, measured 9.2 on the Richter scale, making it the most powerful earthquake ever recorded in North America.
9. Potter Marsh Bird Sanctuary
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Potter Marsh Bird Sanctuary is a popular destination for birdwatching and wildlife viewing located in Anchorage, Alaska. The sanctuary covers an area of 564 acres and is home to a wide variety of bird species, including trumpeter swans, bald eagles, sandhill cranes, and many others.
10. Lake Hood Harbor
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Lake Hood Harbor is a seaplane base and small boat harbor located in Anchorage, Alaska. It is one of the busiest seaplane bases in the world, and serves as a hub for flightseeing tours, fishing trips, and other recreational activities in the area.
11. Anchorage Symphony Orchestra
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This professional orchestra performs a wide range of classical and contemporary music throughout the year. It’s a great way to experience the cultural side of Anchorage.
12. Anchorage Museum
Image Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anchorage_Museum
This museum offers a fascinating look at the history and culture of Alaska. There are exhibits on everything from native art to the state’s oil industry, as well as a planetarium and a science center.
13. Glacier cruises
Image Source: https://www.anchorage.net/things-to-do/glacier-and-wildlife-cruises/
There are several companies that offer boat tours to see glaciers in the nearby Prince William Sound. These tours provide a unique opportunity to see the impressive size and beauty of these natural wonders.
14. cook inlet
Image Source: https://www.britannica.com/place/Cook-Inlet
Cook Inlet is famous for its world-class fishing, particularly for salmon and halibut. Visitors can hire a fishing guide or join a group tour to experience this popular Alaskan pastime. It’s one of the most important natural features of the Anchorage area and is home to a wide variety of marine life, including salmon, halibut, beluga whales, and sea otters. Here are some of the best things to do and see in Cook Inlet:
15. Eagle River Nature Center
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The Eagle River Nature Center is a popular destination located about 30 minutes from Anchorage, Alaska. The center is situated in the heart of Chugach State Park and offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty and serenity of Alaska’s wilderness. Here are some of the best things to do and see at the Eagle River Nature Center.
16. Indian Valley Mine, National Historic Site
The mine was established in 1910 during the Alaska Gold Rush and operated until the 1940s. Today, visitors can tour the site and learn about the history of mining in Alaska. Here are some of the things to know about the Indian Valley Mine. The Indian Valley Mine was established in 1910 by John H. Kinney, a gold prospector who had been mining in the area since 1898. The mine operated until the 1940s and produced over $700,000 worth of gold during its lifetime.
17. The Ulu Factory
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The Ulu Factory is a popular destination for visitors to Anchorage who are interested in Alaskan art and culture. The factory is located in Anchorage’s historic Fourth Avenue district and specializes in handmade ulus, a traditional Inuit cutting tool. An ulu is a traditional Inuit cutting tool that is used for a variety of tasks, such as skinning animals, preparing food, and cutting hair.
18. Paint a Scarf
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Paint a Scarf Alaska is a unique arts and crafts activity in Anchorage that allows visitors to create their own custom-designed silk scarf. The activity takes place in a studio that is located in the heart of downtown Anchorage, making it easily accessible for visitors to the city. The activity involves painting a silk scarf that is provided by the studio.
19. Thunderbird Falls
Image Source: https://www.alaska.org/detail/thunderbird-falls-trail
Thunderbird Falls is a stunning natural wonder located just 30 minutes from downtown Anchorage. The falls are easily accessible via a short, well-maintained trail, making it a popular destination for visitors to the area.
20. Eagle and Symphony Lakes
Eagle and Symphony Lakes are two stunning alpine lakes located in the Chugach Mountains, just a short drive from Anchorage. The lakes are popular destinations for hiking and camping, offering visitors a chance to experience the stunning natural beauty of the Alaskan wilderness.
21. Barbara Falls
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Barbara Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in the Chugach Mountains, just a short drive from Anchorage. It is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts, offering stunning views of the waterfall and surrounding wilderness.
22. Beluga Point
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Beluga Point is a scenic viewpoint located on the Seward Highway, about 25 miles south of Anchorage. It is a popular destination for visitors who want to experience the stunning natural beauty of the Alaskan wilderness, including views of the Turnagain Arm, surrounding mountains, and the possibility of seeing beluga whales.
23. Double Shovel Cider Company
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Double Shovel Cider Company is a craft cidery located in Anchorage, Alaska. Founded in 2015, Double Shovel is dedicated to producing high-quality, artisanal ciders using locally sourced ingredients. Double Shovel produces a variety of ciders, including dry, semi-dry, and sweet ciders, as well as ciders infused with local berries and herbs.
24. Westchester Lagoon
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Westchester Lagoon is a popular recreational area located in Anchorage, Alaska. It is a man-made lagoon that is connected to the ocean by a small creek, and it is surrounded by a beautiful park that offers a range of activities for visitors of all ages.
25. Eklutna Village Historic Park
Eklutna Village Historic Park is a fascinating cultural destination located approximately 26 miles northeast of Anchorage, Alaska. The park is home to the indigenous Dena’ina Athabascan people and features a range of exhibits and activities that provide insight into their rich history and culture.
26. Arctic Valley Ski Area
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Arctic Valley Ski Area is a popular winter destination located approximately 25 miles northeast of Anchorage, Alaska. The ski area is known for its scenic views, diverse terrain, and family-friendly atmosphere, making it a great option for both beginners and experienced skiers and snowboarders.
27. Alaska Jewish Museum
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The Alaska Jewish Museum is a museum located in downtown Anchorage, Alaska, dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history and culture of the Jewish community in Alaska. The Alaska Jewish Museum was founded in 2015 by Rabbi Yosef Greenberg and his wife, Esther. The museum is located in a historic building that was once a synagogue and has since been converted into a museum.
28. Museum of Science & Nature
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Museum of Science & Nature is a museum located in Anchorage, Alaska, that is dedicated to showcasing the natural history of Alaska and its surrounding regions. The Alaska Museum of Science & Nature was founded in 1987 by Dr. Edward Iten, a biologist and naturalist who wanted to share his passion for Alaska’s natural history with the community. Since then, the museum has grown to become one of the most popular museums in Anchorage.
29. Bore Tide in Turnagain Arm
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The Bore Tide in Turnagain Arm is a natural phenomenon that occurs in the waters of Turnagain Arm, a narrow inlet located just south of Anchorage, Alaska. The Bore Tide in Turnagain Arm occurs twice daily, with the timing of the tides varying depending on the phase of the moon. The best time to see the Bore Tide is during the spring and fall, when the difference between high and low tide is the greatest.
30. Whaling Wall
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The Whaling Wall is a public art installation located in Anchorage, Alaska The Whaling Wall is a series of large-scale murals created by marine artist Robert Wyland. The murals depict various marine life scenes, including whales, dolphins, and other sea creatures. The murals are painted on the sides of buildings, bridges, and other structures in locations around the world.
31. Wilderness Express Train
Image Source: https://www.alaska.org/detail/wilderness-express
The Wilderness Express Train is a scenic railway that travels between Anchorage and Denali National Park in Alaska. The Wilderness Express Train is a luxury railway that offers passengers a comfortable and scenic journey through the Alaskan wilderness. The train features two levels of seating, including dome cars with panoramic views, a full-service dining car, and a bar car.
32. Lake Spenard
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Lake Spenard is a popular lake located in Anchorage, Alaska Lake Spenard is the second-largest lake in Anchorage, with a surface area of approximately 1,500 acres. The lake is located in the western part of the city and is adjacent to Lake Hood, which is the largest seaplane base in the world. Lake Spenard is a popular destination for a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, and water sports.
33. Willawaw Nature Trail
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The Willawaw Nature Trail is a popular hiking trail located in the Chugach Mountains near Anchorage, Alaska. The Willawaw Nature Trail is located in Chugach State Park, which is about 15 miles south of Anchorage. The trailhead is located at the end of the Glen Alps parking lot. The Willawaw Nature Trail is a 5-mile loop trail that is rated as moderate in difficulty. The trail gains about 900 feet in elevation and takes about 2-3 hours to complete.
34. Law Enforcement Museum
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The Alaska Law Enforcement Museum is a fascinating museum located in Anchorage, Alaska The Alaska Law Enforcement Museum was founded in 1999 by a group of retired police officers and law enforcement professionals. The museum is dedicated to preserving the history of law enforcement in Alaska and educating the public about the important work of police officers and other law enforcement professionals.
35. Holy Family Old Cathedral
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Holy Family Old Cathedral is a historic Catholic church located in downtown Anchorage, Alaska Holy Family Old Cathedral was built in 1915 and is the oldest Catholic church in Anchorage. The church has a rich history, having survived both the 1964 earthquake and a devastating fire in 1978. Holy Family Old Cathedral is built in the Gothic Revival style and features stunning stained glass windows, vaulted ceilings, and intricate carvings.
36. Turnagain Arm Drive
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The Turnagain Arm Drive is a scenic drive that runs along the Turnagain Arm, a narrow body of water located south of Anchorage, Alaska. The Turnagain Arm Drive is known for its breathtaking scenery, including rugged mountains, glaciers, and the sparkling waters of the Turnagain Arm. The drive also offers opportunities to see wildlife, such as beluga whales, bald eagles, and Dall sheep.
37. Elmendorf State Fish Hatchery
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The Elmendorf State Fish Hatchery is located in Anchorage, Alaska, and is operated by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. The Elmendorf State Fish Hatchery was established in 1950 as a result of a partnership between the U.S. Air Force and the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. The hatchery was originally used to provide fish for sport fishing in the area’s lakes and rivers.
38. Oscar Anderson House Museum
Image Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oscar_Anderson_House_Museum
The Oscar Anderson House Museum is a historic home located in downtown Anchorage, Alaska, and is one of the oldest houses in Anchorage still standing today. The Oscar Anderson House was built in 1915 by Oscar Anderson, a Swedish immigrant who came to Alaska during the Gold Rush. The house is a fine example of early 20th-century architecture and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
39. McHugh Creek Recreation Area
McHugh Creek Recreation Area is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Anchorage, Alaska. McHugh Creek Recreation Area is located approximately 7 miles south of Anchorage along the scenic Seward Highway. It is situated on the eastern edge of Chugach State Park, which is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and outdoor recreation. The area offers several hiking trails for visitors to explore. The McHugh Creek Trail is a popular hike that offers stunning views of the Turnagain Arm and surrounding mountains.
40. Cyrano’s Theatre Company
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Cyrano’s Theatre Company is a professional theater company located in downtown Anchorage, Alaska. Cyrano’s Theatre Company produces a variety of shows throughout the year, ranging from classic plays to contemporary works. The theater has a reputation for producing high-quality productions that showcase the talents of local actors and directors. Cyrano’s Theatre Company is committed to engaging with the local community through its productions and educational programs. The theater offers workshops, classes, and internships for aspiring actors and theater professionals.
41. Resolution Park
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Resolution Park is a popular tourist destination in Anchorage, Alaska, known for its stunning views of the city skyline and the surrounding mountains. Resolution Park is located on the west end of downtown Anchorage, on the edge of the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. The park offers panoramic views of the Anchorage skyline, Cook Inlet, and the surrounding mountains. On a clear day, visitors can see as far as Mount McKinley, the highest peak in North America.
42. Resolution Park
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Resolution Park is a popular tourist destination in Anchorage, Alaska The park offers panoramic views of the Anchorage skyline, Cook Inlet, and the surrounding mountains. On a clear day, visitors can see as far as Mount McKinley, the highest peak in North America. Resolution Park also features a number of attractions, including the Captain Cook Monument, which commemorates the discovery of Alaska by Captain James Cook in 1778. The park is also home to a small outdoor amphitheater that hosts concerts and events throughout the year.
43. Ship Creek
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Ship Creek is a popular destination in Anchorage, Alaska, known for its fishing and scenic views. Ship Creek is a popular fishing destination for both locals and visitors. The creek is home to a variety of fish species, including king and silver salmon, rainbow trout, and Dolly Varden. Fishing is allowed year-round, although regulations and restrictions may vary depending on the time of year.
44. Escape Rooms
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Escape Rooms is a fun and challenging entertainment option in Anchorage, Alaska. Alaska Escape Rooms offers several themed escape rooms for visitors to try. Each room has a different storyline and challenges to solve, with varying levels of difficulty. Some of the themes include “Bank Heist,” “The Asylum,” and “Lost in Space.” Escape rooms are a great option for team building activities, as they require teamwork and communication to solve the puzzles and escape before time runs out.
45. Campbell Creek Greenbelt
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Campbell Creek Greenbelt is a 730-acre park located in Anchorage, Alaska The park features over 7 miles of trails that wind through forested areas and along the banks of Campbell Creek. The trails are popular with hikers, joggers, and cyclists and are open year-round. Campbell Creek Greenbelt is home to a variety of wildlife, including moose, beavers, eagles, and many other bird species. Visitors are often able to spot wildlife along the creek and on the trails.
46. King Street Brewing Company
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King Street Brewing Company is a craft brewery located in Anchorage, Alaska. King Street Brewing Company offers a variety of craft beers, including their flagship King Street IPA, as well as a rotating selection of seasonal and specialty brews. They also offer beer flights and growlers to-go. The brewery’s taproom is a cozy and welcoming space, with a rustic interior and plenty of seating. Visitors can enjoy their beer flights or pints at the bar or at one of the many tables throughout the space.
47. Aurora Fine Arts Gallery
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Aurora Fine Arts Gallery is a contemporary art gallery located in downtown Anchorage, Alaska. The gallery features a rotating selection of art exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing the works of both local and nationally recognized artists. From paintings and sculptures to photography and mixed media, there’s always something new and exciting to see at Aurora Fine Arts Gallery.
Anchorage offers a wide range of activities and attractions that are sure to appeal to visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you’re looking to explore the outdoors, learn about Alaska’s history and culture, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery, Anchorage has something for everyone.
Places and Things To Do
