Things To Do In Anchorage

54 Best & Fun Things To Do In Anchorage, AK

Things To Do In Anchorage, AK

Alaska, known as “The Last Frontier,” is a region of unmatched natural splendor.

It is the kind of place that will leave you speechless, with its snow-covered mountains and alpine woods, as well as its crackling glaciers.

Pictures just don’t do it justice.

Anchorage is no different.

Despite being one of the biggest and most advanced cities in the area, it is encircled by bleak and untamed scenery that offers authentic wilderness experiences.

1. Raven Glacier

Raven Glacier

Raven Glacier

Alaska has an untamed wilderness that can bring tears to your eyes.

While some tourist attractions have been cultivated to within an inch of their lives, others are undeveloped and untamed.

One example is the Raven Glacier.

A dramatic journey that will take you across a mountain pass and down into a valley is the Raven Glacier, which is a part of the Chugach Mountains.

The soil isn’t as stable as it seems in a number of hazardous places, including melt holes and crevasses.

But if you pay attention to your step, the prize will be spectacular.

Your heart will race when you see Raven Glacier’s lonesome, chilly splendor.

Even though getting there is challenging, the trip is valuable and fulfilling in and of itself.

For those seeking off-the-beaten-path activities in and around Anchorage, Raven Glacier is a fantastic choice.

Finding pristine natural locations might be difficult, even on the Last Frontier, but Raven Glacier makes it easy.

For ardent environment enthusiasts, it’s among the most delightful destinations.

For dedicated nature lovers, it’s one of the most enjoyable places to visit.

Address: AK, United States

2. Slam’n Salm’n Derby

Slam'n Salm'n Derby

Slam’n Salm’n Derby

The Slam’n Salm’n Derby is a unique experience for anyone hoping to make lifelong vacation memories because it is one of the only events of its kind and is held every summer.

The Slam’n Salm’n Derby: What is it?

The most straightforward explanation is that it’s a salmon-focused fishing competition, but that doesn’t really capture the essence of the multi-day event.

It is regarded as one of the most popular Anchorage fishing destinations for a reason.

In addition to providing the opportunity to reel in Ship Creek’s stunning, bountiful waters, it also offers thousands of dollars in prizes, including actual cash!

The Slam’n Salm’n Derby is one of the best locations to go if you have bait, a boat, and a cocky desire to win.

It will offer you a fantastic story to tell when you get home, even if you don’t win.

You could even be able to buy your own dinner this evening if you’re lucky!

Address: Anchorage, AK 99501, United States

3. Ulu Factory

Ulu Factory

Ulu Factory

The Ulu Factory is one of the city’s many distinctive attractions that you won’t soon forget.

It honors the ulu, a kind of curved blade that the Inuit have been using for millennia. Because of its craftsmanship, customs, and long history in the region, it has become a mainstay of the community.

The ulu has historically been used for a variety of tasks, such as skinning animals and carving ice cubes for igloos.

It is still known for its prominence in many indigenous societies, but nowadays, especially among visitors, it is more frequently seen as a hip memento than a useful instrument.

In fact, carving, using, and passing down ulu from one generation to the next is still customary in several tribes.

When you go to the Ulu Factory, you may watch ulu being created.

In addition to sales, its artisans provide demonstrations.

It’s among the more unusual things to do in Anchorage, particularly if you want to partake in events that honor the city’s rich cultural heritage.

How often will you have the chance to witness something like this in your lifetime?

Address: 211 W Ship Creek Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501, United States

4. Dimond Center Mall

Dimond Center Mall

Dimond Center Mall

The largest mall in Alaska is located in Anchorage, and it’s called the Dimond Center Mall.

Anchorage is home to the Diamond Center Mall, Alaska’s biggest shopping center.

It is a shopping paradise for shopaholics who are interested in everything from high-tech electric devices to clothing and cosmetics, with over 750,000 square feet of retail space.

The fact that the mall is more than just a shopping center is another amazing feature.

A movie theater with reclining chairs, an ice skating rink, and a bowling alley are just a few of the many tourist attractions inside.

Another notable aspect of the mall is its large, international food court, where you can smell the fragrances of many different cuisines as soon as you enter.

One of the must-see Anchorage attractions is the Dimond Center Mall, whether you’re in the mood for dining, shopping, or other amusement.

You could spend an entire day under its roof and still not see and do everything since there is so much to see and do.

That is definitely worth seeing as a tourist destination!

Address: 800 E Dimond Blvd, Anchorage, AK 99515, United States

5. H2Oasis Indoor Waterpark

H2Oasis Indoor Waterpark

SwimmerAKCC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The H2Oasis Indoor Waterpark will help you forget that Anchorage lacks actual entertainment parks.

In addition to being an incredibly expansive complex, it is one of the few establishments of its sort for thousands of miles, making it a unique treasure among Anchorage’s attractions.

Of course, there are water slides, but the aquatic adventures don’t end there.

Additionally, you may ride the Wave Pool’s three- and four-foot waves or get on the water-powered roller coaster, the Master Blaster.

Pools, hot tubs, water cannons, lazy rivers, and more are among the other attractions!

Visit the H2Oasis Indoor Waterpark this summer to escape the heat.

Alaska isn’t constantly icy, despite popular belief, and you’ll love the opportunity to cool off by swimming in a water park.

Address: 1520 O’Malley Rd, Anchorage, AK 99507, United States

6. Tony Knowles Coastal Trail

Tony Knowles Coastal Trail

Tony Knowles Coastal Trail

The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail will lead you through the majority of Anchorage’s stunning locations.

The trail begins in downtown Anchorage and travels around the city for eleven miles until coming to a finish at Kincaid Park.

It is safe for walkers, sledders, skiers, cyclists, and rollerbladers because it is non-motorized, meaning that no automobiles nor trucks are permitted.

It’s even used for skijoring by some adventurous!

The route is surrounded by breathtaking landscape.

It’s picture-perfect throughout the year, with everything from saltwater marshes along the Pacific coast to snow-covered fir forests.

It’s obvious that you’ll want a camera here.

Are you trying to find Anchorage’s best tourist attractions?

When you hit the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, fasten your snowshoes.

In the entire Last Frontier, it provides some of the greatest sightseeing options.

Address: Anchorage, AK, United States

7. Bear Paw Festival

Bear Paw Festival

Bear Paw Festival

Although Anchorage is primarily known for its winter activities, there are summer celebrations to take part in, such as the Bear Paw Festival.

Every year in July, it’s a celebration of the warmer weather that unites people for fun.

The festival’s most well-known event is most likely the Slippery Salmon Olympics, a sort of obstacle course that incorporates live salmon.

Human Foosball is a comical rendition of the rec room game, while Running of the Bears is a farcical event with actors in costume.

Not to be overlooked are the commonplace carnival experiences.

As you explore everything from rides and food stalls to vintage car shows, you may eat, drink, and have fun!

The Bear Paw Festival is one of Anchorage’s top ten events, and it’s made even more enjoyable by the bright weather.

Snow is not necessary to appreciate the city.

At any time of year, it’s a top-notch tourism destination.

Address: AK, United States

8. Seward Highway

Seward Highway

Seward Highway

One of Alaska’s main attractions is the Seward Highway.

This picturesque trip, which stretches 127 miles between Seward and Anchorage, will provide you with a close-up view of everything from rocky coastline shoreline to alpine forests and snow-capped mountains.

Bear Creek, Kenai Lake, Chugach National Forest, and the Alaska Railroad are some of the trip’s highlights.

In certain places, you will truly cross through fjords and into fields; in other places, you will only catch a glimpse of them.

The highway’s all-season accessibility means that you can take in the views and sounds of nature everywhere you go, whether you’re rolling across the pavement in the summer warmth or driving through trees that have ice tips.

You can begin your Anchorage sightseeing journey long before you enter the city limits.

The Seward Highway is all you need to take.

As you arrive, the landscape will rise to greet you, providing unique vistas of the Last Frontier in all its splendor.

Address: AK, United States

9. Westchester Lagoon

Westchester Lagoon

Westchester Lagoon

The Westchester Lagoon is a serene location where you may temporarily get away from the bustle of the city.

There are a few benefits to visiting the lagoon, but it isn’t that impressive—especially if you’ve already seen the state parks and all of its breathtaking grandeur.

First of all, it’s free.

There are no fees for parking, entrance, or anything else.

This is one of the many free activities available in Anchorage.

The peacefulness of the lagoon is another pleasant feature.

It’s not a crowded tourist trap, so you never have to deal with the throngs.

You are free to boat, bike, or walk.

It’s a nice place for a picnic in the summer, when the fields are scented with wildflowers.

Because the lagoon freezes over in the winter, residents frequently use it for ice hockey and ice skating.

Although the Westchester Lagoon isn’t a very ostentatious place to visit, having fun doesn’t require being ostentatious.

Come here to rest and rejuvenate in a calm environment.

Address: Anchorage, AK, United States

10. Alaska Aviation Museum

Alaska Aviation Museum

Alaska Aviation Museum

Alaska, one of the most isolated US states, boasts a flourishing aviation sector, which is fully documented at the Alaska Aviation Museum.

Its airplanes are the main draw.

More than 30 are on exhibit, ranging from sleek and bright aircraft that appear ready for takeoff to rusty ancient seaplanes with blackened fuselages.

Learn more about the craft of conserving and safeguarding these significant pieces of aviation history in the restoration hanger.

A flying simulator, a photo gallery, two movie theaters, innumerable antiques and memorabilia, and a Hall of Fame honoring significant figures in aviation history are among the museum’s other features and exhibits.

One of the best things to do in Anchorage if you have any interest in pilots or aircraft is visit the Alaska Aviation Museum.

To be honest, it’s a wonderful site to explore even if you’re not interested in flying.

Address: 4721 Aircraft Dr, Anchorage, AK 99502, United States

11. Turnagain Arm

Turnagain Arm

Turnagain Arm

Turnagain Arm is on the Seward Highway, but it’s worth identifying this section of land for a day trip if you can’t make the entire 127-mile trek.

Why?

It’s among Anchorage’s top spots for whale watching!

Yes, you can see the whales without going on a cruise.

Because of the Beluga whales’ yearly migration, a location on the Turnagain Arm is called “Begula Point.”

You can catch a glimpse of these enormous and magnificent animals’ fins, tails, and even full-body surfacings from the rocky outcroppings beside the route.

If you are unsuccessful at Beluga Point, you may want to drive a little further along the shoreline to see whales at a few other locations along Turnagain Arm.

Traveling during the months when they are most likely to migrate can also improve your chances of seeing them.

Instead of packing up and leaving tomorrow, plan your trip for sometime in March or July.

When you get to experience real whale-watching, the extra preparation will be worthwhile!

Address: AK, United States

12. Alaska Botanical Garden

Alaska Botanical Garden

Alaska Botanical Garden

Open all year long, the Alaska Botanical Garden is one of the best places to visit if you need a little reminder that Anchorage isn’t covered in snow all of the time.

One of the greatest locations to go if you need a little reminder that Anchorage isn’t always blanketed in snow is the Alaska Botanical Garden, which is open all year round.

It is even more amazing that they are grown in a northern tundra because its rich and colorful sceneries wouldn’t appear out of place in the tropics!

You will be rewarded with 110 acres of breathtaking natural beauty when you visit the gardens.

These consist of plants, flowers, trees, and more.

There is a wildflower path and a rockery.

Nature paths can be explored independently or with a docent.

If you enjoy nature walks, scientific lessons, or arts and crafts workshops, there may be something on the program that interests you. The gardens also hold a variety of special events.

One of the most enjoyable destinations for visitors visiting Anchorage is the Alaska Botanical Garden, particularly if you’re itching to see some greenery after the never-ending snowy mountain views.

This is the place to go if you want to smell the roses!

Address: 4601 Campbell Airstrip Road, Anchorage, AK 99507, United States

13. Lake Eklutna

Lake Eklutna

Lake Eklutna

Have all of your travels caused you stress?

Is a holiday from your vacation necessary?

Lake Eklutna is one of Anchorage’s most serene, beautiful, and tranquil attractions, making it the ideal spot to relax for a while.

Hiking and kayaking are among the outdoor activities you can partake in.

They are not necessary for your visit, though.

You could just come here for a walk, which is what many folks do, taking their dogs for a quick walk amid the reeds or spending their lunch breaks in the outdoors.

Observing wildlife is another well-liked pastime.

It is not unusual for moose to pass by, along with several birds.

Lake Eklutna is ultimately what you make of it.

You can go on an amazing trekking adventure across the lake or take a canoe on the water if you want to get your heart rate up.

If not, feel free to stop over for an hour or two just to listen to the rustling of the trees and the quacking of the ducks.

Regardless of your aim, this stunning lake will be a stunning destination, and there are plenty of things to do to keep you busy for a long time.

Address: Anchorage, AK, United States

14. Chugach State Park

Chugach State Park

Chugach State Park

Chugach State Park is a busy park where events are happening all the time.

It’s a great place for all kinds of outdoor activities, with nearly 300 miles of trails.

Forests, waterfalls, and mountains are examples of natural attractions.

Bikes, boats, sleds, snowboards, and ATVs are examples of modes of transportation.

In the winter, you can ice climb, and in the summer, you can backpack.

The options are really limitless!

Chugach State Park is home to some of the most picturesque locations in the United States, including the Flattop Mountain mentioned before.

The Eagle River Valley, the Turnagain Arm, and Eklutna Lake are more noteworthy locations.

It just comes down to selecting the best tour for you if you don’t want to go it alone. Many travel agencies provide one- and multi-day trips into the wilds.

Would you want to cuddle up under a night sky flecked with the northern lights, kayak down whitewater rapids, or search for bears?

There is something for everyone at Chugach State Park, which is open all year round.

Adventure awaits you whether you get there now, tomorrow, or the following year.

Address: 18620 Seward Hwy, Anchorage, AK 99516, United States

15. Thunderbird Falls

Thunderbird Falls

Thunderbird Falls

Although waterfalls are common in Alaska, some may be impassable to people without prior mountaineering experience.

They are concealed in the depths of dark, deep forests or along winding nature trails.

That is not the case with Thunderbird Falls.

They’re just a short hike from the highway, and their topography is often categorized as “easy” to “medium” in difficulty.

Toddlers will need to be carried, but children can handle it.

Grandma may also require assistance.

But other from that, the falls are a good place for families to visit.

If you’re new to Anchorage, this little but charming monument might provide a pleasant introduction to the Alaskan environment.

They are also reasonably priced.

The trail is free to hike; the only cost is a little parking fee.

Are you trying to find free activities to do in Anchorage?

Or perhaps you want to take a short hike to hone your abilities before taking on the more difficult mountains.

Thunderbird Falls can be a fantastic option in either case.

Address: Old Glenn Hwy, Anchorage, AK 99567, United States

16. Snow City Cafe

Snow City Cafe

Snow City Cafe

One of the most popular places in downtown Anchorage is the locally owned Snow City Cafe.

Because it’s so busy, locals know to call in advance to book their place.

However, you may be shocked to hear that it isn’t a fine dining establishment.

It’s a cafe for breakfast!

The menu has inventive and entertaining dishes like the “Polar Bear Breakfast,” which is a plate of pancakes or French toast with your preferred protein, and the “Cluck Norris,” which is an egg omelette made with chicken apple sausage.

Other dishes include pecan sticky buns, granola parfaits, eggs Benedict, nuevo huevos, short stacks, and smoothies.

The colorful, Easter egg-shaped walls create a cheery, celebratory mood.

Snow City Cafe is a great option if you’re searching for things to do in Anchorage before the main tourist sites open.

Every local chooses it as their breakfast nook for a reason.

Address: 1034 W 4th Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501, United States

17. Jack Sprat

Jack Sprat

Jack Sprat

One of the friendliest sights to witness on a chilly and windy night in Anchorage is Jack Sprat, which is housed in a large wooden building with floor-to-ceiling windows that let in a warm golden glow from within.

When you finally walk into the restaurant, the scene becomes even more spectacular.

The fragrances will make your stomach turn the moment you smell them, and the atmosphere is just what you would anticipate from a nice dining place!

The menu offers a variety of options, including Wagyu beef hamburgers and hot buttered scallops.

Exotic specialties like bibimbap, a Korean dish prepared in a traditional hot stone pot, are also available for purchase.

Regardless of the cuisine, Jack Sprat takes pleasure in utilizing products that are ethically sourced, locally sourced, and fresh, so every dish will taste great.

After you’ve worked up an appetite in Anchorage, don’t accept anything less.

Enjoy a wonderful lunch at Jack Sprat after an exciting day of mountain climbing, glacier skiing, and avoiding brown bears.

Address: 165 Olympic Mountain Loop, Girdwood, AK 99587, United States

18. Centennial Campground

Centennial Campground

Centennial Campground

In Anchorage, camping is a common pastime, particularly for visitors who are utilizing the city as a starting point for additional journeys along the coastal routes or the railroad.

Centennial Campground has services to accommodate all kinds of guests and is ideally situated for day vacations, long honeymoons, and backpacking excursions.

For instance, you might want the RV parks to include WiFi and electricity if you’re “glamping.”

The survivalist atmosphere of the tent-only campgrounds in the woods may be more appealing to you if you’re roughing it.

There are also tent/RV hybrid locations with and without electricity if you’re on a tight budget.

Make careful to review the campground’s rules before you arrive because you will need to abide by them.

You should prioritize your protection because Alaska is bear country!

But if you’re prepared to begin your outdoor journey and are prepared to abide by the rules of your selected location, take a look at the Centennial Campground.

It is prepared to take you on the journey of a lifetime.

Address: 8400 Starview Dr, Anchorage, AK 99504, United States

19. Alyeska Resort

Alyeska Resort

Alyeska Resort

One of the greatest locations to get away from the everyday grind is the Alyeska Resort, which is around an hour south of Anchorage.

Because it is tucked away in the foothills of Alyeska Mountain, you will always wake up to the sound of birdsong and fresh air. During the day, you may enjoy opulent amenities like spas and fine dining establishments.

The resort’s ability to double as a base camp for both summer and winter activities is another fantastic feature.

Whatever your mood, you can have a great time outdoors with a variety of surrounding destinations for activities like skiing, cycling, climbing, trekking, and general sightseeing.

That being said, the Alyeska Resort does not have to offer gravity-defying experiences.

You could simply reserve a suite and spend the entire day in bed.

Given how lovely it is, it’s undoubtedly a great place to treat yourself.

Address: 1000 Arlberg Ave, Girdwood, AK 99587, United States

20. Anchorage Log Cabin Visitor Information Center

Anchorage Log Cabin Visitor Information Center

Anchorage Log Cabin Visitor Information Center

There are many different types of attractions in Anchorage, and the Anchorage Log Cabin Visitor Information Center is one of them.

In a crowded area of downtown, it is totally out of place with its surroundings.

It draws notice.

Fortunately, travelers benefit from that attention because it’s a visitor center!

The log cabin, manned by friendly staff, is a veritable gold mine of information for visitors or those who are merely traveling through the area.

Maps, guidebooks, coupon books, and other materials are available for pickup.

Depending on your trip itinerary, you can request directions or receive tailored suggestions.

Tickets for the vintage trolleys that travel around the city are available for purchase.

Even free postcards with the Anchorage logo can be filled out and mailed by the staff.

Although it may appear to be from the 17th century, the assistance provided at the Anchorage Log Cabin Visitor Information Center is ideal for today’s tourists.

Look for the wooden cabin if you ever get lost downtown.

It will correct you and is among the most beneficial sites to see in the city.

Address: 546 W 4th Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501, United States

21. Small Business Saturday

Small Business Saturday

Small Business Saturday

Anchorage’s downtown hosts Small Business Saturday every year, which is another fantastic opportunity to boost the local economy.

Its purpose is to highlight local, mom-and-pop companies that are sometimes overlooked by travel brochures.

What types of companies are included at the event?

A typical offering can include print shops, consignment stores, fashion boutiques, and bistros, though it varies from year to year.

Some companies are merely pop-up stands because they are so little.

You can print a map that shows all of the participants; you can wander freely among them because they are all within a few blocks downtown.

One of the most enjoyable events in downtown Anchorage is Small Business Saturday, particularly if you’re eager to change the world.

Avoid spending your money at corporate establishments that charge exorbitant prices.

Instead, buy locally!

Address: Anchorage, AK, United States

22. Wild Scoops

Wild Scoops

Wild Scoops

Do you enjoy sweet things?

Have you ever used spruce tips to your ice cream or something similar?

Otherwise, you should quit wondering what to do in Anchorage.

Wild Scoops should be your next stop!

One of the city’s most delicious destinations, Wild Scoops was founded out of a freezer box at a farmer’s market.

It specializes in making one-of-a-kind, hand-churned dishes that capture the essence of Alaska, including using extremely uncommon ingredients like fireweed.

Despite its low prices, Wild Scoops is becoming more and more well-known, particularly among ice cream lovers.

Some people refer to it as a microcreamery instead of simply calling it an ice cream business.

Whatever its name, dessert enthusiasts are rapidly making Wild Scoops a must-visit location.

Whether you’re looking for unique delicacies or just oddball local stores, Wild Scoops has it all.

Address: 429 E St, Anchorage, AK 99501, United States

23. Oomingmak Musk Ox Producers’ Co-operative

Oomingmak Musk Ox Producers' Co-operative

Oomingmak Musk Ox Producers’ Co-operative

Have you ever touched Qiviut with your fingertips?

The inner layers of muskox fur are used to make this unique type of wool.

Although it’s a sort of Alaskan specialty, it can be challenging to locate the authentic piece because it’s constructed from traditional, Native materials.

The Omingmak Musk Ox Producers’ Co-operative is one source.

It is owned and run by the indigenous people and makes a variety of qiviut products, such as yarns, scarves, and hats. Additionally, it sells conventional goods like smokers.

All earnings are used to help Native tribes in isolated areas where there are few employment options.

In Anchorage, the Oomingmak Musk Ox Producers’ Co-operative is one of the main attractions.

In addition to being a popular tourist attraction in and of itself, it produces a lucrative export that is shipped all over the world.

You will be contributing to a worthy cause if you make any purchases.

In many respects, shopping there is among the nicest things to do in Anchorage.

Address: 604 H St, Anchorage, AK 99501, United States

24. Alaska Museum of Science and Nature

Alaska Museum of Science and Nature

Alaska Museum of Science and Nature

What results from combining fluorescent rock collections, taxidermy animals, and dinosaur fossils?

The Alaska Museum of Science and Nature is the solution!

The Alaska Museum of Science and Nature provides entertainment for all ages, with a focus on dynamic, interactive exhibitions.

Children will like its straightforward language, and adults will adore its instructional yet informative presentations that combine entertainment value with practical knowledge.

For instance, one of the most visited parts of the museum is the dinosaur exhibit, where guests may play with real-life “teeth,” “claws,” and “eggs” much like paleontologists.

The whole skeleton of a real Beluga whale that washed up on a neighboring island, life-sized replicas of ancient explorers, touch tables for reptilian bones, and meteorite rocks are some of the other fascinating exhibits.

A visit to the Alaska Museum of Science and Nature might be on your itinerary this weekend if you’re traveling with children.

It’s one of those attractions you can feel good about going to since it will promote growth, curiosity, and discovery.

Address: 201 N Bragaw St, Anchorage, AK 99508, United States

25. Crow Creek Mine

Crow Creek Mine

Crow Creek Mine

Did you know that gold is still being produced in Alaska?

There are still active gold mines there, although it is most known for the idealists and plotters of the Klondike Gold Rush in the late nineteenth century.

Crow Creek Mine is one of the former mines that has been transformed into a historic site.

Crow Creek Mine, a hydraulic gold mine at first, was a major producer of gold in the area for many years.

It is now a museum and educational facility, but in order to honor the history of gold mining, many of its ancient structures and gold mining equipment have been maintained.

As a guest, you can handle tools, observe demonstrations, go on tours, and explore the surrounding gardens and trails.

For your own gold panning adventure, you can also hire the necessary equipment.

Lessons to boost your yield will also be included in a guided “prospector tour.”

In the past, Anchorage was a popular place for people looking to get rich.

With a tour of the Crow Creek Mine, you may follow in their footsteps and perhaps even inherit some of their good fortune!

Address: 601 Crow Creek Mine Rd, Girdwood, AK 99587, United States