This Remote City Has Stunning Fjords and Endless Summer Days — and You Can See the Northern Lights Right From Town

The top things to do in Anchorage include hiking up Matanuska Glacier and deep-sea fishing in the Cook Inlet. You’ll experience heart-pounding thrills and effortless relaxation in one of the US’ most exciting destinations. 

Imagine riding antique train cars through snow-capped mountains, photographing whales, or seeing one of the 60 glaciers near the city. You can do all this in Anchorage. Alaska’s largest city is also home to nightlife, great restaurants, and welcoming locals. 

We gathered traveler reviews and expert tips to create the ultimate list of things to do in Anchorage. Each destination offers incredible value and experiences and is unique to Anchorage. 

Below are the 12 best things to do in Anchorage, Alaska, so you can have the experience of a lifetime. 

Swipe and Vote: Choose Your Favorite

If you had to pick, what’s your must-do in Anchorage?

Prefer Listening? Here’s the Podcast

Enjoy our articles in audio form powered by cutting-edge technology, perfect for planning your next getaway or relaxing on the go.

In a Nutshell

Where To Stay in Anchorage

• Luxury: Alyeska Resort
• Midrange: Staybridge Suites Anchorage, an IHG Hotel
• Budget: Snob Hollow Inn

Top Experiences

• See Matanuska Glacier
• Witness wild bears and moose at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
• Take a helicopter tour 

Get Up Close and Personal to Glaciers

Giant glaciers surround Anchorage, and you can come face-to-face with them. Whether you take a cruise or hike to see them, you’ll have an unforgettable experience. 

The easiest way is to take a cruise from the town of Portage. The team at Portage Glacier Cruises takes you deep into the heart of the glaciers. You’ll sail along the shore of Portage Lake and see these icy wonders. 

The other way to access these natural monuments is hiking the Byron Glacier Trail. This mile-long trail takes you to the foot of a vast glacier. You’ll be surrounded by incredible ice, mountains, and wilderness on this unforgettable adventure. 

Travel Tips

• Bring a Camera with a Zoom Lens: This will allow you to take close-up shots of the ice formations and wildlife without getting too close.
• Dress in Layers: Temperatures can be much colder near the ice, and conditions can change quickly.

Read also: Incredible Ski Spots in The US

See Wild Bear and Moose at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

Moose and bears are magnificent mammals that roam near the city. Just outside Anchorage, you can see these incredible animals in their natural habitat. 

Visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center for events and tours. These animals roam the 200-acre protected forest. Rangers are on hand to explain their habitat, diets, and fun facts about the individuals. 

If you’re short on time, you can likely see these animals near the airport and at Potter Marsh. Bring your camera because you’ll probably see these impressive creatures up close. 

Travel Tips

• Use Binoculars for Better Viewing: Bring a pair of binoculars to get a closer look at moose and bears from a safe distance. 
• Travel in Groups: Larger groups are less likely to attract attention from animals, and there are more eyes for spotting wildlife.

Read also: Terrific Winter Getaways in the US

Experience the City’s Indigenous Heritage

Anchorage’s Native American heritage is strong and alive. To experience and learn about it, visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center. At this timeless museum and cultural space, you’ll learn about the Dena’ina Athabascan people, their language, history, and culture. Walk through the center to enjoy interactive exhibits and special events. 

Another great place to learn about the city’s native cultures is the village of Eklutna. Visit the Eklutna Historical Park and hike to the popular Thunderbird Falls to see the community’s renowned waterfall. 

Travel Tips

• Ask Before Taking Photos: Some individuals or communities may have specific beliefs about photography.
• Support Indigenous Artists: Prioritize purchasing items made by Indigenous artists, which helps preserve traditional crafts and art forms.

Read also: Hidden Gems in the US

Take a Train Ride

Riding the train in Anchorage is an experience of a lifetime. You’ll travel along historical tracks through mountains and wilderness. Be prepared to see stunning wildlife and experience one of the US’ most striking landscapes. 

You can take the train to visit Prince William Sound, Fairbanks, Denali, and other top destinations. Head to Anchorage’s train depot and schedule a special trip. 

For the ultimate day trip from Anchorage, take the Glacier Discovery Train. This timeless track takes you to Whittier. You can see glacier-covered mountains, bays, and lakes along the way. 

Travel Tips

• Book Tickets Early: Train tickets for popular routes can fill up quickly, especially during the summer months.
• Choose the Right Class of Service: GoldStar Service offers a more luxurious experience with better views and dining options. At the same time, Adventure Class is a more budget-friendly choice.

Read also: Panoramic Train Rides Across the U.S.

Go Museum-Hopping

Anchorage’s museums are expertly curated and highly popular with visitors. Start your visit to the Anchorage Museum to learn about the city’s history and culture. You’ll see interactive exhibits and art and tour them with experts.

Don’t miss the Smithsonian Arctic Studies Center to learn about the region’s harsh landscape and history. You’ll come face to face with artifacts from past explorations. Through the ages, you’ll also see a fantastic collection of indigenous clothing and wilderness survival gear. 

Another highly rated museum is the Alaska Museum of Science and Nature. Here, you can enjoy fossils, dinosaur replicas, and educational exhibits. You’ll also learn about the region’s natural history and wild geography.

Travel Tips

• Visit the Discovery Center of Anchorage Museum: The Discovery Center features hands-on science exhibits and activities that make learning fun and engaging for younger visitors.
• Explore Outdoor Art Installations: Take some time to walk around the museum’s exterior and enjoy the outdoor art installations. 

Read also: Amazing US Natural Wonders

Rent Bikes in the Summer

Biking along the coastal trail is one of the best experiences in the city. Over 135 miles of paths take you through stunning landscapes and urban areas. 

Riding on shore, you may see wildlife, including moose and whales. Bike along the Westchester Lagoon to see wildlife and stunning views. There’s even a bike repair station if you get a flat tire. 

Pedal further to the Fish Creek Estuary for more chances to see moose, bears, and seabirds. You can ride your bike to the airport and see one of the best views of the city. The trail continues to the beautiful Point Campbell Park. 

Travel Tips

• Carry Bear Spray: It’s a safety precaution that can help you feel more secure.
• Rent Bikes Early in the Day: This is especially important during peak summer months when demand is high.

Read also: Awesome Scenic Hikes in America

Take a Helicopter Tour

Helicopter tours are among the most exciting things you can do in the city. You’ll soar over mountains, forests, and glaciers. You may even see bears, moose, elk, and other wildlife. 

Alaska Helicopter Tours takes you deep into the wilderness with several adventures. Fly to hiking trails and off-the-grid locations deep into the wilderness surrounding the city. 

This 2-hour helicopter tour includes three landings: next to the calving 100-foot Lake George Glacier, on a high alpine peak with views of the Knik Glacier, and near the glacier’s melt pools (summer), with chances to see wildlife like bears, moose, and Dall sheep. Don’t forget your camera because this will be the adventure of your life. It costs USD 699 per person.

Travel Tips

• Bring a Camera with a Strap: Bring a camera with a strap to prevent it from slipping out of your hands during the flight.
• Stay Flexible with Your Schedule: Weather can affect helicopter tours, so be prepared for possible changes. 

Read also: Wonderful Wild Spots in America

Go Whale Watching

Anchorage offers several renowned whale-watching adventures you won’t want to miss. You can leave to sail the bays and capes. Throughout the year, you can see a variety of whales, dolphins, and orcas. 

One of the most popular companies is Salmon Berry Tours. This highly rated adventure company takes you out to meet some of the ocean’s largest animals. 

You’ll also see other wildlife, such as puffins and sea lions. Time your visit and don’t forget to bring your rain gear. The city’s weather is notoriously unpredictable. 

Travel Tips

• Book Your Tour in Advance: Spots fill up fast, especially in summer. Reserve online at least a week ahead to guarantee your spot.
• Dress in Layers: Even in summer, it gets windy and chilly on the water.
• Bring Binoculars: While the guides try to get you close to wildlife, binoculars make it easier to spot puffins and orcas from a distance.

Read also: Top US Lake Destinations

Go on a Fishing Adventure

Anchorage is an angler’s paradise where you’ll find deep-sea, trout, and lake fishing. Head to Ship Creek to catch salmon in the city’s largest and most popular salmon fishery. 

During the summer, check out the city’s Salmon Derby. This ten-day family-friendly event hosts a fishing contest, reel rentals, and even sells licenses to visitors. All proceeds go to local charities. 

You can head into the wilderness outside the city to try fly fishing. Anchorage’s small creeks have trout and other river fish. If you’re looking for the ultimate Ron Swanson-approved experience, get your license, reel, and overalls ready for Anchorage. 

Travel Tips

• Pack Appropriate Fishing Gear: For salmon, a medium to heavy rod and reel with a strong line is essential, while fly fishing requires lighter gear.
• Bring a First Aid Kit: It should include band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and personal medications.

Read also: Spectacular Outdoor Spots in the US

See the Northern Lights

Anchorage is one of the best places in the US to see the Northern Lights. This colorful astronomical display is a top experience for nature lovers. 

From September to April, you can see the lights from the city. To get the best views, head to the Knik River Area. Here, you’ll enjoy clear skies and very little light pollution. 

Another top destination for seeing the lights is the resort town of Girdwood. Stay in the four-star Alyeska Resort to experience luxurious amenities and light-viewing events.

Travel Tips

• Check the Aurora Forecast: Websites like the Geophysical Institute provide real-time aurora forecast updates on solar activity and cloud cover.
• Bring a Tripod for Photography: Long exposure times are necessary for capturing the lights clearly, and a tripod will help keep your camera steady.

Read also: Northern Lights Viewing Spots in the US

Check Out the National Parks

Anchorage is near several epic national parks with unparalleled views and wildlife. You’ll see bears, moose, waterfalls, and thick forests surrounded by mountains. 

One of the largest and closest national parks is Chugach National Forest. This sprawling forest is the perfect place for adventures and experiencing the Alaskan wilderness. 

If you have time, make your way to the sprawling Denali National Park and Preserve. This epic destination is one of the world’s most renowned natural wonders. You’ll enjoy epic views of snow-capped mountains, river valleys, and forests. 

Travel Tips

• Plan Your Visit Around Wildlife Seasons: If you want to see bears, plan your visit from late June to July, when they are most active near salmon streams.

Read more: Instagram-Worthy Spots in the US

Enjoy the City’s Food Scene

Anchorage’s food scene revolves around fresh ingredients, ancient traditions, and forward-thinking visionaries. From award-winning chefs to everyday comfort food, you’ll fall in love with the city’s cuisine. 

Start downtown and hop around the city’s top-rated restaurants. Try halibut, crab, and local reindeer sausage, or enjoy comfort food and food trucks in the summer. Go to the low-key F Street Station for their flakey and delicious Beer-Battered Alaskan Halibut.

Besides the amazing cuisine, Anchorage is known for its breweries. Visit microbreweries such as the popular Cynosure Brewing and 49th Street Brewing, one of the state’s largest breweries. 

Travel Tips

• Explore Food Trucks: Check out local food trucks during the summer months for unique and delicious meals, ranging from gourmet tacos to fresh seafood.
• Pair Meals with Local Brews: Many restaurants in Anchorage offer craft beer selections that complement their dishes.

Read also: Unmissable US Cities

Pin It Now, Read It Later

USA

---

• Facebook
• Instagram
• YouTube
• Mail
• Pinterest
• TikTok