Things to do in Anchorage

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Anchorage which includes a sandy beach and a sunset
Anchorage featuring a sunset, mountains and general coastal views
Anchorage featuring street scenes
Tony Knowles Coastal Trail featuring forest scenes
Anchorage which includes interior views

Anchorage Attractions

If you have never visited the northern city of Anchorage, Alaska, you may be expecting to see a barren wasteland complete with igloos in the middle of endless snow and ice, but this is simply not the truth. Anchorage is frequently referred to as the City of Lights and Flowers partially because of the giant size of the blossoms attained by most flowering species here.

Because the midnight sun keeps things growing around the clock, one of the main attractions in Anchorage is the cultivated vegetation. Also known as the Hanging Basket Capital of the World, Anchorage horticultural displays are a must see for every summer tourist.

There are so many things to do in Anchorage that it's difficult to list them all, and the available activities change with the seasons. For instance, Anchorage excursions during the winter months include going on dogsled tours, participating in the festivities of the annual Fur Rendezvous festival, ice fishing, snowmobiling, and watching the beginning of the Iditarod sled dog race. Winter is also the best time to meet local people because the food and dining spots are not as crowded with tourists as they are during the summer months. It is easy to take a map of Anchorage city streets and find popular places for good meals, entertainment, shopping options, and cultural exhibits. Located downtown right next to Town Square Park, the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts hosts a variety of world-class entertainment year around. The pace of life in the City of Lights and Flowers is slow and leisurely during the winter months.

Anchorage activities during the summer include fishing, hiking, mountain biking, and generally enjoying the spectacular outdoor environment AK offers during this time of year. It will not be at all unusual to see people playing softball at local parks at midnight. One of the top recreation areas within the Anchorage city limits is the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail.

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What to do in Anchorage

Free Things to Do in Anchorage

Leave your purse in the hotel room. It's easy to amuse yourself in Anchorage without paying a cent.

Alaska Veterans Museum - Filled with exhibits and artifacts, this gallery is heaven for knowledge-hungry minds.

Whaling Wall - If you're eager to gain an insight into the area's buzzing arts and culture scene, organize a visit.

Earthquake Park - Let the kids have a good time or let the big kid in you run free — this attraction just screams fun.

National Archives at Anchorage - If you like modern architecture, add this attraction to your list of must-sees.

Kimball Building - Get ready to feel like you've been transported back in time while roaming around this historic attraction.

SoNo District - This is a vibrant location where you can soak up the atmosphere and experience the local way of life.

Westchester Lagoon Overlook - Take things slow and spend some time out near the water.

Anchorage Market and Festival - Widely known among local residents, this site is worth taking a look at.

Holy Family Cathedral - Take a moment for some meditation or prayer at this respected sacred place.

Prince William Sound - Go for a nice, leisurely stroll by the water and perhaps even stick a toe in.

Tony Knowles Coastal Trail - Unwind and let the natural surrounds restore your mind.

Town Square Municipal Park - Work on your green thumb and appreciate the wide variety of plants on display.

Things to Do in Anchorage with Kids

There's fun for the whole family wherever you go in Anchorage. Here are some family friendly experiences to enjoy together that are bound to make your trip memorable:


 

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Discover the most popular places to visit in Anchorage

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Anchorage

Anchorage showing marine life and a river or creek

Downtown Anchorage

3.5/5(1,370 area reviews)

This central business district boasts some of Alaska's tallest buildings, such as the ConocoPhillips and Atwood Buildings, and offers cultural points of interest, shopping, dining, and nightlife attractions.

Downtown Anchorage
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Midtown Anchorage

4/5(784 area reviews)

Midtown Anchorage is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Z.J. Loussac Library - Main Branch and Arctic Benson Park while in the area.

Midtown Anchorage
Chugach State Park featuring a river or creek

Hillside

While visiting Hillside, you might make a stop by sights like Alaska Zoo and Anchorage Golf Course.

Hillside
Virgin Creek Falls in Girdwood. Such an easy short hike in the rainforest to one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen. Fall colors in full display.
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#Adventure #Girdwood #VirginCreekfalls

Alyeska

While visiting Alyeska, you might make a stop by sights like Girdwood Town Square and Girdwood Park.

Alyeska
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Spenard

3.5/5(1,106 area reviews)

Bohemian lifestyle and artistic flair thrive in this Alaskan neighborhood, with easy access to Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport. Enjoy the lively bar scene and convenient public transportation via the People Mover's frequent network.

Spenard
Apparently the busiest seaplane base in the world ... pretty quiet the day I was there though

Taku - Campbell

If you're spending some time in Taku - Campbell, Dimond Center and Campbell Creek Greenbelt Park are top sights worth seeing.

Taku - Campbell

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Popular day trips from Anchorage

Frequently asked questions

Is Anchorage worth visiting?
Whether you're planning to discover the local charm and cultural attractions or try unique foods and venture into nature, there are many things to do in Anchorage.
How do I spend a day in Anchorage?
Once you've visited top attractions like Anchorage Museum and Alaska Native Heritage Center, spend the rest of your day discovering Anchorage's shopping and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Anchorage?
The top tourist attraction in Anchorage is Anchorage Museum, so be sure to add it to your agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Anchorage?
Three days in Anchorage is plenty of time to visit the city's main highlights. Many travelers book for two days on average. Anchorage Museum, Alaska Native Heritage Center and Point Woronzof Park are among the most popular sights. Want to discover more? Hang around a while longer to check off nearby hotspots such as Girdwood.
Is Anchorage a walkable city?
It all comes down to what you plan to see and do in Anchorage. Several top sights, including Anchorage Museum and Alaska Museum of Natural History, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a wander around some of Anchorage's best neighborhoods, Midtown Anchorage is 2 miles away from downtown, while Downtown Anchorage is 0.2 miles away from the city center and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Anchorage with kids?
Planning what to do in Anchorage with kids has never been so simple. Whether you have teenagers or little ones, there are loads of family-friendly tours and activities to keep them busy here.

What to do in Anchorage for adults?
Whether you're an avid foodie, culture enthusiast or outdoor explorer, there's no shortage of things to do in Anchorage for adults including William A. Egan Civic and Convention Center and Alaska Airlines Center.
Are there free things to do in Anchorage?
One of the best ways to learn about free things to do in Anchorage is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on exciting neighborhoods, parks and other attractions you can experience without reaching into your pocket. Point Woronzof Park is one place that doesn't charge an entrance fee.