Anchorage Museum Tours

Anchorage which includes street scenes
Anchorage showing modern architecture and interior views
Anchorage
Anchorage which includes interior views
Anchorage which includes interior views


One of the largest museums in Alaska is also one of its best, telling the stories of Alaska Native cultures and displaying artworks from this stunning state.

Discover the story of Alaska in the Anchorage Museum, one of the highlights of downtown Anchorage. The museum contains thousands of ethnographic, artistic and cultural artifacts that piece together the multifaceted history of the “Last Frontier.” Find the Rasmuson Center, an elegant glass building in the city center. Inside, discover the museum’s varied collections.

Browse the permanent exhibits, which include extensive information about Alaska’s Native cultures. Learn about the sheer diversity of communities that emerged throughout history in Alaska. Artifacts from the Smithsonian’s collections have been lent to the Anchorage Museum, placing them back in their original contexts. Marvel at a Tlingit war helmet from the late 19th century or use the touch screens to find out about other ethnographic artifacts.

The Alaska Gallery presents aspects of life in the 49th state through different themes, including displays on the issues that Alaskans face today. The museum also displays artwork inspired by and created within the state. Note the gallery will open in late 2017.

Come back to the Anchorage Museum throughout the year to visit its rotating exhibitions. Previous shows have featured multimedia presentations on the slower pace of life in Alaska and stories of Captain Cook traveling across the Northwest Passage.

The museum also offers the extra option to visit the Planetarium. Watch shows about the galaxy in 3-D, many of which are aimed at engaging younger audiences in space science. Ask at the museum ticket office to find out what is showing in the Planetarium when you visit.

Rest after exploring the museum while enjoying a delicious dinner in the on-site restaurant. The restaurant, along with the museum itself, runs a calendar of events including art workshops and talks on a variety of topics.

The Anchorage Museum is located in the Rasmuson Center in the heart of the downtown neighborhood. Walk here in 15 minutes from the Anchorage train station or drive and pay to use the on-site parking. Local bus services also stop outside the building. The museum is open daily throughout the summer and 6 days a week during winter months.

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Reviews of Anchorage Museum

4.6
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
108
5 - Excellent 66%
4 - Good
48
4 - Good 29%
3 - Okay
7
3 - Okay 4%
2 - Disappointing
1
2 - Disappointing 1%
1 - Terrible
0
1 - Terrible 0%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Get combo ticket with Alaska Native Heritage Center and shuttle bus between 2 museums. Could have spent all day at either museum

5/5 - Excellent

GEG

Have lots of time to spend at museum.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Take The guided tour if you can. The gift shop has interesting things. If we had more time, we would have liked to have lunch there.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

A must see!

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Best Lodging Options Near Anchorage Museum

Westmark Anchorage Hotel

Westmark Anchorage Hotel

3 out of 5
720 West 5th Avenue, Anchorage, AK
Westmark Anchorage Hotel
The Wildbirch Hotel in JdV by Hyatt

The Wildbirch Hotel in JdV by Hyatt

3 out of 5
239 West 4th Ave, Anchorage, AK
The Wildbirch Hotel in JdV by Hyatt
Wingate by Wyndham Anchorage Downtown/Ship Creek

Wingate by Wyndham Anchorage Downtown/Ship Creek

2.5 out of 5
111 W Ship Creek Ave, Anchorage, AK
Wingate by Wyndham Anchorage Downtown/Ship Creek
Hilton Anchorage

Hilton Anchorage

3.5 out of 5
500 W 3rd Ave, Anchorage, AK
Hilton Anchorage
Sheraton Anchorage Hotel

Sheraton Anchorage Hotel

4 out of 5
401 E 6th Avenue, Anchorage, AK
Sheraton Anchorage Hotel
Four Points by Sheraton Anchorage Downtown

Four Points by Sheraton Anchorage Downtown

3 out of 5
325 W 8th Ave, Anchorage, AK
Four Points by Sheraton Anchorage Downtown
Ramada by Wyndham Anchorage

Ramada by Wyndham Anchorage

2.5 out of 5
115 East 3rd Ave, Anchorage, AK
Ramada by Wyndham Anchorage
Hotel Captain Cook

Hotel Captain Cook

4 out of 5
939 West 5th Avenue, Anchorage, AK
Hotel Captain Cook
Arctic Fox Inn

Arctic Fox Inn

3.5 out of 5
327 E 2nd Court, Anchorage, AK
Arctic Fox Inn
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Anchorage Museum

At the Anchorage Museum, visitors can explore a variety of activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and appreciating art. The museum is surrounded by numerous attractions, offering sightseeing tours and complimentary experiences. Outdoor adventures abound in Anchorage, providing exciting opportunities to engage with the natural beauty of Alaska while discovering the local culture and history.

Shopping

For a great shopping experience near the Anchorage Museum, visit the Anchorage 5th Avenue Mall, just 0.2 miles away, offering a lively atmosphere. The Anchorage Market and Festival, only 0.3 miles away, features local vendors. If you're up for a drive, check out the Dimond Center, 5 miles away, with family-friendly vibes.

Recreation

Sullivan Arena, located 0.8 miles from the Anchorage Museum, offers a vibrant sports atmosphere perfect for fans. Just 0.9 miles away, Ben Boeke Ice Rink invites you to enjoy ice skating amid lively entertainment. Mulcahy Stadium, 0.7 miles from the museum, also provides an energetic sports environment.

Adventure

The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail offers stunning scenery and outdoor adventures, ideal for hiking enthusiasts, located 0.8 miles from the museum. Hillberg Ski Area, 5 miles away, is perfect for skiing and sports lovers, while H2Oasis Indoor Waterpark, 7 miles from the museum, guarantees family-friendly fun and thrilling water activities.

Nightlife

Experience Anchorage's nightlife by sipping drinks at The Rooftop, just 0.2 miles from the museum, or catch a film at the Bear and Raven Adventure Theater, 0.3 miles away. For a cultural evening, enjoy a show at the Alaska Experience Theatre, 0.4 miles from your base.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Anchorage Museum

While visiting the Anchorage Museum in Anchorage, Alaska, explore nearby urban parks, modern civic buildings, and historic sites. This vibrant area offers cultural experiences perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Don’t miss the Anchorage Museum of History and other fascinating museums that showcase the region's rich heritage. Enjoy the blend of art and history while taking in the local sights around this popular attraction.

  • Dena'ina Civic and Convention Center: Located 0.4 miles from the Anchorage Museum, this modern facility serves as a hub for business events. Its contemporary design and spacious layout create a professional ambiance, making it ideal for conferences and gatherings.
  • William A. Egan Civic and Convention Center: Situated 0.3 miles away, this venue is perfect for hosting large-scale events and conferences. With its central location and versatile spaces, it offers a dynamic environment for both attendees and organizers.
  • Delaney Park: Just 0.2 miles from the museum, this urban park is a family-friendly oasis. Enjoy outdoor activities, picnics, and leisurely strolls while soaking up the vibrant city atmosphere.

Best time to go to Anchorage Museum

The best time to visit Anchorage Museum can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Anchorage Museum falls in July, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Anchorage Museum falls in January, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January17.1°F (-8.3°C)No RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
February20.5°F (-6.4°C)No RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
March23.4°F (-4.8°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April34.0°F (1.1°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May45.7°F (7.6°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June54.0°F (12.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
July57.4°F (14.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
August55.2°F (12.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
September48.0°F (8.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
October37.4°F (3.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November23.9°F (-4.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
December19.0°F (-7.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Anchorage Museum

To save money during your visit to the Anchorage Museum, consider traveling in the cheaper months of January to February and November, and aim for a Sunday stay for lower hotel rates. Utilize Expedia’s search tools to find budget-friendly accommodations and explore package deals that combine flights and activities. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can also provide exclusive discounts. For public transport, Anchorage has affordable options, and don't miss out on free outdoor activities like exploring local parks, which can enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Anchorage Museum are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Anchorage Museum is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around Anchorage Museum is Thursday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool lets you set your budget and choose your ideal destination, among other preferences. You can easily sort the results from lowest to highest price, so you can find the most affordable hotels right away. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel category. For instance, if you select the Eco-certified filter, you'll be shown a selection of sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save on costs by combining your Anchorage Museum hotel stay with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

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