I had no idea Alaska’s biggest city could feel so inviting—and so wild. In Anchorage, I sipped espresso next to locals in cozy cafes, watched moose stroll through neighborhoods, and flew over snow-dusted peaks all in the same day. This wasn’t just a pit stop before the backcountry—it was a destination in itself.
Whether you’re planning a summer road trip through the Kenai Peninsula or arriving on the Alaska Railroad, this guide shares the best things to do in Anchorage based on my own travels—plus the cozy corners, scenic hikes, and local eats I’d return for in a heartbeat.
Walk or Bike the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail
This 11-mile trail hugs the edge of the city and feels like it was made for golden hour strolls and skyline views. I rented a bike from Pablo’s Bike Rentals downtown and pedaled past marshes, sandy beaches, and even a bald eagle perched on a signpost. If you’re lucky, you might spot moose grazing near Westchester Lagoon (I saw two!).
Tip: Start at Elderberry Park and ride toward Kincaid Park for the best views of Cook Inlet and Mount Susitna.
Visit the Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center
On a rainy afternoon, I ducked into the Anchorage Museum and ended up staying for hours. It’s part art gallery, part science center, and part cultural deep dive into Alaska’s Indigenous peoples and natural history. I especially loved the Smithsonian Arctic Studies Center—the kind of exhibit that makes you slow down and listen.
Good for: Travelers with kids, art lovers, and anyone curious about Alaskan heritage.
Take a Scenic Flight Over Glaciers
If there’s one splurge I’ll remember forever, it’s the glacier flightseeing tour. I booked a small-plane flight with Rust’s Flying Service, and we soared over blue crevasses, rugged ridges, and shimmering lakes. The pilot even pointed out a few bear tracks in the snow!
Optional upgrade: Some tours land on a glacier so you can step out and take it all in (surreal doesn’t begin to cover it).
Explore the Alaska Native Heritage Center
This wasn’t just a museum—it felt like being invited into someone’s story. The Heritage Center combines live dance performances, traditional village sites, and hands-on crafts. I joined a drum circle, listened to an elder share stories in Yup’ik, and left with a deeper appreciation for the resilience and richness of Native Alaskan cultures.
Eat Like a Local: Where I Went Back Twice
Anchorage’s food scene surprised me—in the best way. A few favorites I’d recommend:
- Snow City Café – My go-to for brunch (get the Kodiak Benedict with salmon cakes).
- Moose’s Tooth Pub & Pizzeria – Legendary locally, and yes, the pizza lives up to the hype.
- Wild Scoops – Local ice cream with Alaskan twists (the Sitka Swirl flavor had me hooked).
If you like seafood, nearly every place offers halibut and salmon caught just offshore.
Take the Alaska Railroad to or from Anchorage
One of the most scenic train rides I’ve ever taken was the Anchorage to Seward route. I boarded early with a cup of coffee in hand and watched the landscape shift from coastal flats to towering mountain passes. The GoldStar Service with domed glass ceilings was worth the splurge for uninterrupted views.
Hike Flattop Mountain
Anchorage locals will tell you: if you have time for just one hike, make it Flattop Mountain. It’s just 20 minutes from downtown and offers panoramic views of the city, the Chugach Mountains, and on a clear day, even Denali. The last stretch is a bit of a scramble, but I promise—it’s worth it.
Spot Wildlife Without Leaving the City
Wildlife watching in Anchorage doesn’t require backcountry gear. I spotted:
- Moose near the airport bike trails
- Bald eagles along Ship Creek
- Salmon swimming upstream downtown in summer
For guaranteed sightings, visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, just 45 minutes away—it’s part sanctuary, part wildlife education hub.
Relax at the Alyeska Nordic Spa (Optional Day Trip)
About an hour’s drive from Anchorage is the Alyeska Nordic Spa, a forest-surrounded retreat of hot and cold pools, wood-fired saunas, and mountain views. I visited in winter and soaked under snowflakes—a total contrast from Anchorage’s urban edge.
When to Visit Anchorage
- Summer (June–August): Long days, wildlife sightings, and great weather for hiking and biking.
- Fall (September): Fewer crowds, golden foliage, and aurora sightings.
- Winter (November–March): Snowshoeing, skiing, and the chance to see the Northern Lights.
Travel Tips for Anchorage
- Pack layers. Even in summer, it can swing from 70°F to 50°F in a few hours.
- Rent a car if you plan day trips to Girdwood or Turnagain Arm.
- Stay downtown for walkability and access to the coastal trail.
FAQs
What is Anchorage known for?
Anchorage is known for its stunning natural scenery, abundant wildlife, and role as a gateway to Alaska’s outdoor adventures.
Is Anchorage worth visiting?
Yes—especially if you enjoy hiking, culture, and scenic beauty. It blends city comfort with quick access to the wilderness.
How many days should I spend in Anchorage?
I recommend 2–3 full days to experience the highlights, plus more if you’re planning day trips to nearby spots like Girdwood or Seward.
Can I see the Northern Lights in Anchorage?
Yes! From September to April, you have a chance to see the aurora—especially on clear nights away from city lights.
Is it safe to walk in Anchorage?
Downtown is generally safe during the day. Like any city, stay alert at night and be mindful of wildlife (yes, even moose).
Final Thoughts
Anchorage surprised me. It wasn’t just a place to pass through—it was a destination in its own right. With its cozy cafes, glacier-strewn skyline, and welcoming locals, this city made me slow down and appreciate the balance of wild and warm. If Alaska is on your radar, don’t skip Anchorage. It might just end up being one of your favorite stops too.