32 Non-Touristy Things To Do in Anchorage Alaska
What are the best things to do in Anchorage? How do the locals spend a day in Anchorage?
Growing up in New England but moving to the Anchorage area at age 27, Sean and I have come to love the 49th state’s largest city!
We recognize that Anchorage may not be as glamorous or bustling as other major cities across the Lower 48, but it holds its own charm and unique experiences that can’t be found anywhere else in the country.
Moose, for example, wander the city streets (particularly inside Kincaid Park near the airport), while stunning hikes reveal sweeping views of the municipality and the surrounding wilderness just outside the city boundaries.
And, with an abundance of delicious seafood and local breweries, there’s no shortage of local specialties to try! But when it comes to experiencing Anchorage like a local, we’ve learned the ins and outs from long-term residents whom we are fortunate enough to call our friends.
Having walked every street up and down, hiked most trails, and driven the iconic Route 1 more times than we can count, we’ve compiled a list of the best things to do in Anchorage and how tourists and locals truly spend a day in this beautiful city!
We’ve broken this list down into different topics including the most unique activities, free things to do, summer versus winter activities, what to do if you don’t have a car, and the best activities if you’re traveling with kids.
We’ve also included a complete map noting the exact location of each of these activities so you can easily plan your trip!
Unique Things To Do in Anchorage
While there are plenty of things to do in Alaska’s largest city, some often get overlooked! These unique activities are perfect for those looking to experience Anchorage like a local.
1. Check Out the Anchorage Museum
A must-visit to understand Alaska’s history, art, and culture, this museum offers fascinating exhibitions and installations!
I’m not much of a history fan myself, and even I found this museum worthwhile. Sean loves the Alaska Native Art section of the museum, and I’m usually a sucker for visiting their gift shop for some unique souvenirs. Yes, even locals have visited this museum!
2. Visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center
Experience Alaska’s indigenous cultures firsthand through stories, dance, and artifacts. They often have special events or demonstrations, making it one of the best things to do for the whole family.
It’s often overlooked by the city’s “more exciting” activities, but if you have at least a couple of days in Anchorage, then it’s well worth looking into!
3. Wildlife Viewing in Kincaid Park
Easily the #1 place just outside the city to spot moose, eagles, and occasionally even bears, this is one of our favorite parks to get lost in some trails. With 1,400 acres of gorgeous flora and fauna, this park offers multiple trails to explore on foot or by bike.
It also has a great lookout that, on a clear day, will reward visitors with amazing views of Mount Denali! Drive all the way to the last parking area, walk past the outhouses, and climb the stairs of the building in front of you to reach the viewpoint.
4. Hike Flattop Mountain
One of the most popular hikes near Anchorage, this moderate 3-mile trail provides stunning views of Anchorage and the surrounding Chugach Mountain Range.
It usually only takes visitors about an hour to hike, but we usually take our time to just enjoy the views. If you do decide to go, just be sure to bring your bear spray! We’ve seen bears, moose, coyotes, foxes, and everything in between on these trails.
5. Shop at the Anchorage Market and Festival
Open every Friday through Sunday from May to September, this outdoor market showcases local artisans, food vendors, and live music. We typically spend July on the Kenai Peninsula, with special visits to Anchorage just for this market!
It’s undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Anchorage in July, with many tourists not realizing it’s even happening during their trip. Don’t be like other visitors, and be sure to stop by!
6. Attend a Local Salmon Bake
No trip to Alaska is complete without trying some delicious, freshly caught salmon! Many local restaurants and community centers host traditional salmon bakes throughout the summer months. This is a great opportunity to try Alaskan cuisine while mingling with locals!
Things To Do in Anchorage for Free
Visiting Alaska is expensive, there’s really no getting around it. But, that doesn’t mean you can’t save a little here or there by engaging in some free activities!
Fortunately, much of what makes Alaska so beautiful is free in nature, like looking for wildlife in local parks (like the Far North Bicentennial Park), enjoying the coastal trails, walking around the city, taking advantage of free museum days, and more!
7. Stroll the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail
Probably the most popular thing to do in Anchorage regardless of the time of year, this scenic trail offers breathtaking views of the mountains and Turnagain Arm.
It’s perfect for biking, walking, and escaping the city, and you can’t beat that it’s free!
8. Explore Ship Creek Trail
A 2.6-mile trail beginning at the Alaska Railroad depot, cutting through the city eastward, and ending at Tyson Elementary School, offers a fantastic opportunity for birdwatching and wildlife viewing!
The trail is an easy, flat, paved walk that follows the creek. In the summer months, you can watch salmon swimming upstream to spawn and local fishermen trying to catch them.
9. Take a Self-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Anchorage
With historic buildings, street art murals, and local shops to explore, downtown Anchorage is full of character and charm.
We really enjoy strolling West 5th Avenue thanks to its cute shops and amazing restaurants like Alaska Crepery! Personally, I love the Once in a Blue Moose Store, however, Polar Bear Gifts is another good option if you don’t mind more touristy gift ideas.
10. Attend First Fridays in Anchorage
On the first Friday of every month, downtown art galleries and shops stay open late for a lively night of socializing, live music, food vendors, and local artists. Many of them also offer free entry, making it a fun and exciting way to stay on a budget during your Alaska vacation!
11. Take a Drive Along Turnagain Arm
One of the top scenic drives in the world, this road (known as the Seward Highway) offers stunning views of mountains, glaciers, and wildlife. Be sure to stop at Beluga Point for a chance to spot beluga whales!
We’ve never been lucky enough to see them, but we have spotted black bears, moose, foxes, and other stunning wildlife at this very pull-off. When driving south, it’ll come up on your right rather quickly, so be sure to keep an eye out for signage as you drive! Turning around is a bit difficult along this section of the road.
Things To Do in Anchorage in Summer
We all know that summer is the most popular time to visit Alaska thanks to it being the prime time for wildlife viewing, fishing, hiking, and pretty much everything related to the outdoors with the unrelenting daylight that accompanies the midnight sun!
Practically everything on this list can be done in summer, but the below activities are definitely among the best.
12. Go Salmon Fishing
Fishing is to Alaska as lobster is to New England. But, in Anchorage, beginner and experienced anglers have some of the best fishing opportunities right at their fingertips!
Summer is the peak season for salmon fishing in Anchorage’s many rivers and streams, with the most popular being Ship Creek, which runs right through the heart of downtown!
While the actual dates of the salmon run do vary from year to year, we’ve most often found it to be peaking towards the end of July (it’s been late the last few years). Just be sure to purchase your Alaska fishing license before you cast!
13. Have a Couple of Pints at 49th State Brewing Company
One of our favorite breweries in Alaska, 49th State Brewing Company offers a gorgeous rooftop view of the city, live music, and amazing food.
Their halibut collar is the best I’ve ever had! Sean really enjoys the Alaska 8 Star Lager and I’m a big fan of the Blonde Eagle Ale. They also have a really cool gift shop (we purchased a bottle opener from here) and have a cooler full of 4-packs to go!
14. Enjoy a Sunset at Point Woronzof Park
Located near the airport, this 192-acre park is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
With stunning views of the mountains and sunset over Cook Inlet, it’s a great place to relax, watch planes take off and land, and keep an eye out for wildlife. You’ll see many locals enjoying picnics here with their kids, and couples indulging in a bottle of wine and some local meats and cheese!
15. Try Glacier Kayaking
Not all of Alaska’s adventures happen in Seward’s Kenai Fjords National Park or Denali National Park! Visitors can join a tour to explore the stunning glaciers close to Anchorage by kayak, particularly in Whittier and Prince William Sound.
You’ll paddle through calm waters, surrounded by towering icebergs and some of the most breathtaking scenery in the state.
Many people also choose to make their way up the Glenn Highway about 90 miles northeast of Anchorage to the iconic Matanuska Glacier, though none of these are technically located in Anchorage.
16. Go Bear Viewing in Lake Clark National Park
While the destination is technically not located in Anchorage, there are countless local tour providers in the city that provide incredible bear-viewing opportunities to Lake Clark!
We’ve visited both of the top bear sightseeing destinations in Alaska including Lake Clark and Katmai National Park, and we can honestly say that Lake Clark is incredibly unique and special for wildlife lovers.
If you’re not sure which you should visit, you can take a look at our complete Katmai National Park vs Lake Clark National Park Bear Viewing Comparison!
Things To Do in Anchorage in Winter
Alaska’s second most popular season to visit is the winter due to the heightened possibility of spotting the aurora borealis!
During the months between November and March, outdoor activities become more limited, with many of the best things to do in Anchorage in December including skiing, ice fishing, and snowmobiling.
However, there’s still plenty to do in the city during the colder months if you enjoy museums and art galleries!
17. Go Hunting for the Northern Lights
While Anchorage isn’t exactly known for its aurora sightings, it is still possible to see them if you venture far enough outside of the city’s light pollution. Head up to Flat Top Mountain or Eklutna Lake for the best chance of catching a glimpse of these elusive lights dancing across the sky!
You can always look at the forecast by using the Geophysical Institute website and looking at the solar winds and Kp values. If the weather is clear, there’s always a chance! However, if you’re really hoping to see northern lights on your trip, then you’ll want to plan some time in Fairbanks or further north.
18. Hit the Slopes at Alyeska Resort
If you’re a fan of skiing or snowboarding, then a trip to Alyeska Resort is a must during your winter visit to Anchorage! Located about 40 minutes south of the city in Girdwood, Alyeska offers some of the best slopes and views in the state.
Plus, with its quaint village and cozy lodges, it’s the perfect place for a winter getaway.
19. Go Ice Fishing on a Local Lake
Depending on how cold it gets in Anchorage during the particular winter you visit, you may or may not be able to enjoy some ice fishing out on a lake.
Ice fishing is typically more popular in Fairbanks and regions that sustain colder temperatures, however, Anchorage does have its fair share of lakes that freeze over enough for some angling. Popular spots include Cheney Lake, Jewel Lake, and Sand Lake.
20. Ice Skating at Westchester Lagoon
In addition to ice fishing on local lakes that freeze during the winter months, locals love to go ice skating on Westchester Lagoon!
The lagoon is located in the heart of Anchorage and offers a picturesque setting for skating, with views of the city skyline and surrounding mountains. Plus, it’s free to use and has a warming hut nearby, making it a perfect family-friendly activity.
21. Go Snowshoeing through Chugach State Park
Anchorage is surrounded by incredible wilderness, and winter is the perfect time to explore it on snowshoes! Chugach State Park offers a variety of trails for all levels of experience, from easy loops to more challenging hikes up mountains.
We always rent our gear from the Alaska Outdoor Gear Rental on Potter Drive, which you can do online in advance if you like to be ahead of the game!
Things To Do in Anchorage Without a Car
If you’re just taking a quick trip into the city and don’t plan on renting a car, there are still plenty of things to do in Anchorage both near the airport or just a short taxi ride away.
22. Take a Trip on the Alaska Railroad
Just because you don’t have a car doesn’t mean you’re bound to Anchorage! The Alaska Railroad offers a variety of train trips that depart from the Anchorage train depot, including day trips to Seward and northbound routes toward Denali National Park and all the way up to Fairbanks.
This makes it possible to travel across the 49th state without a car, which is particularly helpful if you’ll be visiting in the winter months and aren’t comfortable driving in winter conditions.
23. Visit the Ulu Factory
Often used for mincing up herbs, this unique knife is a unique Alaskan tool that is actually used by locals! At the factory, you can watch it being made, learn about its history and purpose, and purchase one for your own kitchen.
24. DIY Art Gallery Walk
Anchorage boasts an extensive collection of public art that you can explore on foot! Grab a map from the visitor’s center and make your way through the city streets wandering into endless art galleries and exhibits along the way.
It makes for a great pastime if you have a long layover at the airport, or a wonderful activity for art connoisseurs!
25. Attend an Event at the Performing Arts Center
Anchorage has a thriving arts scene, and the Atwood Concert Hall at the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts is home to numerous productions, including Broadway shows, concerts, and dance performances. You can check their website for upcoming events during your visit!
26. Check out the Alaska Aviation Museum
Come here to explore vintage aircraft, see one of the original snow machines used by Carl Ben Eielson, and learn about the role of aviation in Alaska’s development. The museum also offers flight simulations for those wanting a more hands-on experience!
Great for people of all ages, this museum is easily one of the best things to do in Anchorage if you don’t have a car.
Things To Do in Anchorage with Kids
Traveling with kids can be a handful to say the least, but Anchorage offers plenty of activities that are fun for the whole family! From waterparks to long stretches of boardwalk and beaches where all their energy can be let out, here are some of the best activities in Anchorage for kids.
27. Take a Trip to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
Easily one of the best things to do in Anchorage for travelers of every age, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center allows visitors to see and learn about native Alaskan wildlife up close. The center is home to orphaned, injured, and endangered animals such as brown and black bears, moose, wolves, bald eagles, foxes, coyotes, and more!
Sean and I have visited this conservation center about a half dozen times and I’ll never say no to going back. They release any animals that will safely be able to continue their lives in the wild, and provide permanent homes for those unable to be released making it a true conservation center (not one made for tourists!)
28. H2Oasis Indoor Waterpark
Enjoy water fun year-round at Alaska’s largest indoor waterpark, complete with slides and a wave pool! Particularly great for younger kids, H2Oasis also offers a lazy river, a toddler area with mini slides and interactive water features, and an adult hot tub for when you need to relax.
29. Potter Marsh Boardwalk
A 1,550-foot boardwalk trail through a scenic salt marsh where you can spot various species of birds and wildlife. It’s also right across the street from a beach that only reveals itself at low tide, which is perfect for looking for seashells and taking family photos.
While you’re on the boardwalk, be sure to look up – you can often see bald eagles nesting in the tall towers!
30. Explore the Alaska Botanical Garden
Venture into the Alaska Botanical Garden to discover the native plants and flowers of Alaska in a beautiful outdoor setting.
The garden offers family-friendly trails, including a Labyrinth and the Lowenfels-Hoersting Family Nature Trail, perfect for a leisurely walk where kids can learn about local ecology and conservation efforts. During summer, the garden hosts various events and workshops that are fun for all ages!
31. Have a Picnic at Earthquake Park
This park offers stunning views of Cook Inlet and Anchorage’s skyline. It also has an earthquake exhibit that explains the devastation caused by the 1964 Good Friday Earthquake, which is a great educational experience for kids.
Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the playgrounds and open fields while learning about Alaska’s geological history.
32. Visit the Imaginarium Discovery Center
Located within the Anchorage Museum, the Imaginarium Discovery Center is a child’s playground of scientific discovery and adventure. This hands-on science center features over 80 exhibits including a planetarium, earthquake shake table, and interactive displays on physics, biology, and geology.
Children can engage in activities like creating giant bubbles, exploring the principles of flight, or even stepping into a real-life aurora borealis simulator!
Travel Tips for Visiting Anchorage Alaska
Anchorage, Alaska offers a unique blend of urban charm and breathtaking wilderness. To ensure your visit is as enjoyable as possible, here are some of our personal travel tips from our endless travels across this beautiful state!
- Best Time to Visit: Take our word for it: summer, from June to August, is the ideal time to visit Anchorage. The weather is mild, and the days are at their longest, providing ample opportunity to explore outdoor attractions.
However, if you’re interested in winter sports or want to see the northern lights, plan your trip between December and March. Just keep in mind that winter activities are best explored in Fairbanks! - Packing Essentials: The weather in Anchorage is exceedingly unpredictable. Always pack layers, including waterproof outerwear, no matter the season. Don’t forget your sunscreen, sunglasses, and mosquito repellent for the summer months.
For winter visits, warm clothing, snow boots, and thermal layers are a must! - Getting Around: While Anchorage is a relatively bike-friendly city with an extensive trail system, renting a car will give you more flexibility, especially if you plan to explore beyond the city limits.
Public transportation options are available, but quite limited, which is why most tourists rent cars for their vacations in Alaska if they aren’t arriving via cruise ship. - Stay Connected: Mobile service is often very spotty outside urban areas (and even sometimes right in downtown Anchorage!), so download maps and travel guides for offline use.
It’s also a good idea to inform someone of your travel itinerary if you plan to venture into remote areas, particularly if you’ll be hiking or entering wilderness regions. - Wildlife Safety: Anchorage is home to a massive variety of dangerous wildlife including bears, coyotes, and moose. Always maintain a safe distance, store food properly, and carry bear spray when hiking or camping in the wilderness.
It’s best to know how to properly respond to different species of wildlife, which you can learn about in this guide! - Cultural Respect: Alaska is still home to people belonging to indigenous tribes, with centuries of history and cultural heritage. Be mindful of sacred sites, leave no trace when exploring the wilderness, and always seek permission before entering private land or taking pictures of people.
Respect for local customs and traditions is essential to preserving Alaska’s diverse and rich culture. Purchasing crafts and art directly from native artisans is also a great way to support the local community! - Eat Local: If you’re a fan of seafood, then Anchorage is going to be your foodie haven. Alaskan cuisine is rich and varied, with access to some of the freshest seafood in the world.
Don’t miss out on trying local specialties like salmon, halibut, king crab, scallops, shrimp, and land proteins like elk and reindeer sausage! Much of which is sustainably sourced in Alaska due to strict hunting and fishing regulations. - Emergency Preparedness: Familiarize yourself with local emergency services, especially if you plan to explore Alaska’s wilderness. Carry a first-aid kit, and know the signs of hypothermia and heat exhaustion (though the ladder isn’t nearly as common in the Last Frontier).
A satellite phone may be necessary if you plan on using Anchorage as a stopping-off point before venturing into Denali or another remote national park. - Be Respectful of Nature: While traveling across Anchorage, please follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment. This includes packing out all your trash, staying on marked trails, and not disturbing, feeding, or approaching wildlife!
- Have Fun!: For many, traveling to Alaska often takes 15+ hours with a minimum of 1-2 layovers en route. We know it’s quite the journey, so be sure to plan enough time in each place you want to explore so as to not feel rushed or overtired.
Jetlag is almost sure to hit thanks to the time difference and midnight sun, so arrive with this in mind and you’ll be better prepared with a positive attitude than those who don’t!
By keeping these tips in mind, you can ensure a memorable and safe visit to Anchorage, Alaska, enjoying all the natural beauty and adventure it has to offer.
Map of Things To Do in Anchorage Alaska
Below, we’ve created this map of the top things to do in Anchorage, regardless of when you decide to visit or who you travel with. Use it to begin planning your trip and to get an idea of how far your prioritized activities are from each other!
Custom Anchorage, Alaska Itinerary Creator
We know it can be difficult to keep track of all of the things you want to do in Anchorage, which is why we’ve created our very own custom itinerary creator! You can include everything you want to do by day and have it automatically downloaded to your computer for FREE! No payment, no email addresses!
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FAQ
In this last section, we’ve provided some helpful information regarding your trip to Anchorage including whether or not this city is worth visiting, how long is enough to spend here, and more!
Is Anchorage Alaska Worth Visiting?
Anchorage, Alaska is undoubtedly worth exploring, even if just for a short time! Its unique geographical location, nestled between the Chugach Mountains and the waters of Cook Inlet, offers stunning natural beauty and a plethora of activities to enjoy.
The city serves as a gateway to exploring the wilds of Alaska like the iconic Katmai National Park, but also boasts its own attractions, such as the Alaska Native Heritage Center and the 49th State Brewing Company.
The mixture of natural beauty, wildlife, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities makes Anchorage a destination that caters to a wide range of interests and is unquestionably worth visiting!
How Do I Spend a Day in Anchorage?
If we were to walk through downtown Anchorage today, here is how we would spend it! We would start our morning with a visit to Kincaid Park since moose are best observed during the hours surrounding dawn and dusk. We’re speaking from personal experience!
From there, we would make our way over to our favorite breakfast spot, Alaska Crepery, where we’d grab some delicious coffee and crepes (I love their savory options) before heading up to Glen Alps Trailhead for a morning hike with views over the city.
Following our hike, we would do some souvenir shopping along 4th and 5th Avenue, possibly take a stroll down the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, and end up watching the sunset over Cook Inlet while enjoying some ice cream from Wild Scoops.
In the evening, we’d head to our favorite restaurant known as Fletcher’s which is located on the first floor of Hotel Captain Cook for the best oysters Rockefeller and peanut butter pie in town! We’d finish off our evening with some pints at the 49th State Brewing Company, enjoying live music and the company of some locals.
This is just one possible itinerary for how to spend your day in Anchorage, but the possibilities for adventure and exploration are endless.
How Much Time is Ideal for Anchorage?
We believe 2 days is enough for Anchorage, but you can get by with visiting Anchorage in just one day.
This time frame gives you enough time to go for a hike and get beautiful views of the city, explore the top attractions, such as the Alaska Native Heritage Center, Kincaid Park, and the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, as well as venture on day trips to nearby natural wonders like the Chugach State Park.
However, if you’re passionate about outdoor activities or wish to undertake extensive hiking, wildlife viewing, or fishing, extending your stay to 3 days or more would be beneficial!
Is Anchorage a Walkable City?
Anchorage can be considered moderately walkable, especially in its downtown area, where many attractions, restaurants, and shops are easily accessible on foot.
The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail and the downtown area’s compact layout make it feasible for visitors to explore major sights without the need for a car. However, reaching some of the more secluded natural attractions and activities around Anchorage, particularly the hiking trails and restaurants outside the city center, will often require transportation.
The city’s public transit system, People Mover, provides access to broader areas, but for complete freedom to explore at your own pace, renting a car or using ride-sharing services is often preferable.
What is Anchorage Best Known For?
Anchorage is best known for its stunning natural surroundings, abundance of wildlife, and the unique blend of urban and wilderness experiences it offers.
Its proximity to spectacular natural attractions like Chugach State Park, Turnagain Arm, the Seward Highway, and various national parks also makes it a prime location for adventure and nature lovers!
Additionally, Anchorage’s cultural vibrancy, reflected in its many festivals, museums, and galleries, showcases the rich heritage and history of Alaska and its native peoples. The city is also the largest in Alaska, making it a hub for commerce, transportation, and government.
What is the Best Month to Go to Anchorage Alaska?
The best month to go to Anchorage, AK is July when visitors can enjoy the midnight sun, the salmon run, and the best hiking conditions.
July is also one of the most expensive months to visit Alaska, however, so if you’re trying to visit on a budget, then May or September would be better for finding good travel deals.
If you want to enjoy winter sports at nearby Alyeska, then visiting between December and February is best!
Is it Better to Visit Fairbanks or Anchorage?
Both Fairbanks and Anchorage offer unique activities, but most travelers choose one or the other based on their interests.
If your priority is seeing the northern lights, then Fairbanks is far better than Anchorage. However, if you want to go hiking or eat seafood and do some window shopping, then Anchorage is the better choice!
For a complete comparison, check out Anchorage vs Fairbanks: Weather, Cost, & Activities from a Local!
We’ve always found that this popular city is most often used as an arrival or departure point, when it deserves just a bit more of your attention! Anchorage, Alaska is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, cultural enthusiasts, and foodies alike.
With its stunning natural surroundings, abundance of wildlife, and unique blend of urban and wilderness experiences, the city offers unforgettable experiences that cater to all interests. Whether you just have a long layover or an extended stay in the city, these amazing things to do in Anchorage are sure to keep you entertained!
If you’ll be a first-time visitor on your trip to Anchorage, be sure to download our free First Timers’ Guide and check out our Essential Guide to Traveling to Alaska!
