Planning a Trip to Anchorage? Check out these Top-Rated Attractions!
Anchorage, Alaska, is one of the largest cities in the northernmost state of the United States. With an abundance of gorgeous nature and great attractions nearby, it’s no wonder that Anchorage has been named by USA Today as one of the Best Places to Visit in 2022! Here are just some of the top-rated attractions you shouldn’t miss when visiting Anchorage, Alaska! (This list could go on and on and would require too much time to research.)
Visit the Anchorage Museum Discover the past, present and future of Alaska at this award-winning museum. With five floors of hands-on exhibits, live performances and cultural events, you’ll learn about everything from Native Alaskan artifacts to recent history through interactives that help tell unique stories. No matter how big or small your group is, take advantage of one of their offsite tours and immerse yourself in local culture. Some tour options include bus tours around city landmarks (like Denali), cooking classes taught by locals and even dog sledding excursions – with multiple tour lengths available to accommodate any trip timeframe. Business class on Cathay Pacific Airlines Reservationsis offered on practically all international flights. On practically all international flights, it is accessible.
Eat Dinner At Jens’ Restaurant Opened in 1978, Jens’ Restaurant (150 W. 36th Ave.) has been voted Best Place for Dining Out in Downtown Anchorage by readers of The Anchorage Press year after year, but some say it feels like home—and not just because it’s family owned and operated. Jens' is open from 11am until 1:30pm on weekdays and from 4pm until 8:30pm on Fridays and Saturdays; reservations are not required. The menu includes everything from steak tartare to seasonal seafood dishes and traditional French desserts like creme brulee, making Jens' an ideal spot for families or couples alike.
Book an Excursion with Chilkoot Charters Chilkoot Charters has more than 20 years of experience taking visitors on fun and educational excursions around Alaska’s stunning waters. Offering sightseeing tours, whale watching tours, glacier tours, fishing charters and even cruises that combine whale watching with dinner parties, Chilkoot Charters is always coming up with new ways to entertain you. If you are heading to Alaska for your own adventure and are looking for an experienced group to join in on your travels then look no further than Chilkoot Charters. They have something for everyone, so go ahead and book your tour today.
See the Northern Lights at Fireweed Farm While everyone thinks of Alaska when they think of experiencing the Northern Lights, there are plenty of places where you can go for an unobstructed view. Our pick is Fireweed Farm Bed and Breakfast, a family-owned place that also happens to be near some killer hiking spots. While you're here, consider renting one of their cabins and making a long weekend out of it (or just stay here - you'll want to). You'll have no problem leaving your troubles behind.
Go on a Hike Through Bear Valley Trail One of the most popular hikes in Anchorage, Bear Valley Trail is one of our favorites. While you’re hiking, be sure to keep an eye out for black and brown bears—Alaska has over 1,000 brown bears and approximately 10 times that many black bears. The hike is nearly 9 miles long and ascends 1,500 feet in elevation over 6 hours, but if you want great views of Denali National Park, it’s definitely worth it. Be sure to check on bear activity before you go and make noise when hiking (this will frighten any nearby bears).
Take Pictures on Flattop Mountain We’re going up, up, and away as we climb Flattop Mountain. This hike is just 5 miles round trip and features stunning views of Downtown Anchorage. The trek to Flattop starts at either Bear Hill Trailhead or Moose Run Trailhead (both are free). We recommend driving all 4.5 miles of Seward Highway toward Turnagain Arm for an amazing photo opportunity overlooking Cook Inlet! At about mile 4 on Seward Hwy., turn onto Portage Valley Rd. and drive less than 1 mile to a large parking lot across from Newhalen Schoolhouse. This is your trailhead for Bear Hill Trail, which will take you straight up Flattop Mountain in under 2 miles - beautiful view included!
Visit Ship Creek by Kayak A great place to start your trip is by kayaking through scenic Ship Creek and into Cook Inlet. Starting just north of downtown, you can easily get from where you’re staying to Ship Creek by heading west along 3rd Avenue. You’ll find plenty of public parking in 4th and 5th avenues if your hotel or Airbnb is within walking distance. Look for major landmarks such as Christ the King Cathedral and City Hall, then turn left onto E Street heading north (right if you’re coming from downtown). Continue until you reach 6th Avenue, where you should turn right; after a few blocks, you will be at Ship Creek Park.
Enjoy Local Brews at The Tap Root Cidery + Biergarten If you’re in town for an extended stay, plan your trip around local events, like The Tap Root Cidery + Biergarten’s Hot Apple Cider Festival. Located at Spenard Roadhouse near Lake Hood, The Tap Root serves up some of Alaska’s best ciders, including seasonal flavors and specialty ciders. For those who like beer better than cider, Spenard Roadhouse also has a great brewpub featuring Big Al Brewing Co. beers. A truly local experience—with worldwide appeal.