Ultimate Guide: 25+ Amazing Things to Do in Anchorage, Alaska
Discover the perfect blend of urban amenities and wilderness adventures in Alaska’s largest city
🏔️ Why Visit Anchorage?
Located between the Chugach Mountains and Cook Inlet, Anchorage serves as Alaska’s gateway city, home to nearly half the state’s population. The city offers year-round activities, from summer hiking and wildlife viewing to winter aurora watching and dog sledding. With its rich Native Alaskan heritage, modern amenities, and unparalleled access to wilderness, Anchorage provides the perfect base for exploring Alaska.
🌲 Top Outdoor Activities in Anchorage
Tony Knowles Coastal Trail
The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail stretches 11 miles from downtown Anchorage to Kincaid Park, offering stunning views of Cook Inlet and the Alaska Range. This paved trail is perfect for walking, jogging, cycling, or cross-country skiing in winter.
- Panoramic mountain views on clear days
- Wildlife spotting opportunities (moose, bears, beluga whales)
- Accessible year-round
- Multiple entry points throughout the city
Summer months (June-August) for the warmest weather, though each season offers unique beauty.
Flattop Mountain Trail
Flattop Mountain is Anchorage’s most popular hiking destination, offering a moderate 3.5-mile round trip hike with spectacular 360-degree views from the summit.
- Elevation gain: 1,350 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Best months: May through October
- Parking available at Glen Alps trailhead
Start early to avoid crowds and bring layers as weather can change quickly at elevation.
Chugach State Park
As one of the largest state parks in America, Chugach State Park encompasses over 495,000 acres of pristine wilderness just minutes from downtown Anchorage.
- Hiking and backpacking
- Rock climbing and mountaineering
- Wildlife photography
- Berry picking (late summer)
- Winter sports and snowshoeing
🐻 Wildlife Viewing Opportunities
Alaska Zoo
The Alaska Zoo houses over 100 animals representing Alaska’s diverse wildlife, including polar bears, brown bears, moose, wolves, and Dall sheep.
- Polar bear exhibits
- Brown bear viewing areas
- Native Alaskan species
- Educational programs and guided tours
Anchorage Coastal Wildlife Refuge
This 16,000-acre refuge protects critical habitat for over 130 bird species and provides excellent opportunities for wildlife observation.
- Migratory waterfowl
- Sandhill cranes
- Moose and caribou
- Various raptors and songbirds
Beluga Point
Located along the Seward Highway, Beluga Point offers prime viewing opportunities for beluga whales during summer months.
- Best time: July and August
- Bring binoculars for optimal viewing
- Watch for distinctive white coloring
- Peak activity during incoming tides
🏛️ Cultural Attractions and Museums
Anchorage Museum
The Anchorage Museum showcases Alaska’s rich history, art, and culture through permanent and rotating exhibitions.
- Alaska Native cultural displays
- Contemporary Alaskan art
- Natural history collections
- Interactive science center
Alaska Native Heritage Center
This cultural center and museum celebrates Alaska’s 11 major cultural groups through traditional architecture, storytelling, and demonstrations.
- Traditional village sites
- Native artisan demonstrations
- Cultural performances
- Educational programs
Oscar Anderson House Museum
Step back in time at Anchorage’s oldest wood-frame house, now a museum showcasing early 20th-century life in Alaska.
- Built in 1915
- Original furnishings and artifacts
- Guided tours available
- Swedish Christmas celebrations in December
❄️ Seasonal Activities
19+ hours of daylight, hiking, salmon viewing, Midnight Sun Festival
Northern Lights, dog sledding, ice skating, winter sports
Bird watching, fewer crowds, moderate weather
Beautiful colors, aurora viewing begins, comfortable temperatures
Northern Lights Viewing
Anchorage offers excellent aurora borealis viewing opportunities during winter months.
- Kincaid Park
- Arctic Valley
- Glen Alps area
- Away from city lights for optimal visibility
Dog Sledding
Experience Alaska’s official state sport with various tour operators offering authentic dog sledding adventures.
🚗 Day Trip Destinations from Anchorage
Portage Glacier
Located 50 miles southeast of Anchorage, Portage Glacier offers stunning views and educational opportunities.
- Visitor center exhibits
- Glacier viewing
- Short hiking trails
- Photography opportunities
Girdwood and Alyeska Resort
This charming mountain town offers year-round activities and scenic beauty.
- Summer: Hiking, mountain biking, scenic chairlift rides
- Winter: Skiing, snowboarding, winter festivals
- Year-round: Dining and shopping
Whittier
Accessible through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, Whittier serves as a gateway to Prince William Sound.
- Glacier and wildlife cruises
- Kayaking and fishing
- Unique tunnel experience
- Small-town Alaska charm
🗺️ Planning Your Visit
🌡️ Weather Preparation
- Dress in layers regardless of season
- Waterproof clothing recommended
- Summer temperatures: 60-70°F
- Winter temperatures: 5-25°F
🐾 Wildlife Safety
- Keep distance from all wildlife
- Store food properly when camping
- Be bear aware on trails
- Never feed wild animals
🚌 Getting Around
- Car rental: Most convenient option
- Public transit: People Mover bus system
- Bicycle: Extensive trail system
- Walking: Downtown is very walkable
🏨 Where to Stay
- Downtown: Close to attractions
- Midtown: Good value, outdoor access
- Airport area: Convenient for flights
Your Anchorage Adventure Awaits
Anchorage offers an unmatched combination of urban amenities and wilderness access, making it a truly unique destination. From world-class hiking trails and wildlife viewing to cultural attractions and local cuisine, the city provides endless opportunities for adventure and discovery. Whether you’re seeking outdoor thrills, cultural experiences, or simply want to experience authentic Alaska, Anchorage delivers unforgettable memories year-round.
The key to enjoying Anchorage is embracing its dual nature as both a modern city and gateway to pristine wilderness. Take time to explore both aspects, and you’ll understand why so many visitors fall in love with Alaska’s largest city.