What to do in Anchorage, AK

Activities, attractions and tours

Anchorage showing a sunset and a beach
Anchorage showing a sunset and a beach
Anchorage featuring a sunset, mountains and general coastal views
Anchorage which includes street scenes
Tony Knowles Coastal Trail featuring forests

Anchorage Attractions

If you have never visited the northern city of Anchorage, Alaska, you may be expecting to see a barren wasteland complete with igloos in the middle of endless snow and ice, but this is simply not the truth. Anchorage is frequently referred to as the City of Lights and Flowers partially because of the giant size of the blossoms attained by most flowering species here.

Because the midnight sun keeps things growing around the clock, one of the main attractions in Anchorage is the cultivated vegetation. Also known as the Hanging Basket Capital of the World, Anchorage horticultural displays are a must see for every summer tourist.

There are so many things to do in Anchorage that it's difficult to list them all, and the available activities change with the seasons. For instance, Anchorage excursions during the winter months include going on dogsled tours, participating in the festivities of the annual Fur Rendezvous festival, ice fishing, snowmobiling, and watching the beginning of the Iditarod sled dog race. Winter is also the best time to meet local people because the food and dining spots are not as crowded with tourists as they are during the summer months. It is easy to take a map of Anchorage city streets and find popular places for good meals, entertainment, shopping options, and cultural exhibits. Located downtown right next to Town Square Park, the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts hosts a variety of world-class entertainment year around. The pace of life in the City of Lights and Flowers is slow and leisurely during the winter months.

Anchorage activities during the summer include fishing, hiking, mountain biking, and generally enjoying the spectacular outdoor environment AK offers during this time of year. It will not be at all unusual to see people playing softball at local parks at midnight. One of the top recreation areas within the Anchorage city limits is the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail.

Contacting our office here at Expedia is the best way to get the information on Anchorage tours, lodging options, and must see attractions that you'll need to make the most of your northern vacation. Let Expedia be your travel guide.


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What to do in Anchorage


Discover the most popular places to visit in Anchorage

Explore areas of Anchorage

The very beautiful and dangerous mud flats of Cook Inlet

Downtown Anchorage

3.5/5(74 area reviews)

This central business district boasts some of Alaska's tallest buildings, such as the ConocoPhillips and Atwood Buildings, and offers cultural points of interest, shopping, dining, and nightlife attractions.

Downtown Anchorage
Virgin Creek Falls in Girdwood. Such an easy short hike in the rainforest to one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen. Fall colors in full display.
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#Adventure #Girdwood #VirginCreekfalls

Alyeska

While visiting Alyeska, you might make a stop by sights like Girdwood Town Square and Girdwood Park.

Alyeska
157643675

Midtown Anchorage

4/5(18 area reviews)

Midtown Anchorage is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Z.J. Loussac Library - Main Branch and Arctic Benson Park while in the area.

Midtown Anchorage
Spring 2019, an eagle hunting fish outside of Anchorage Alaska.

Hillside

While visiting Hillside, you might make a stop by sights like Alaska Zoo and Anchorage Golf Course.

Hillside
You can come here to learn more about Captain Cook's Voyage

Bootlegger Cove

If you're spending some time in Bootlegger Cove, Tony Knowles Coastal Trail and Anchorage Alaska Public Lands Information Center are top sights worth seeing.

Bootlegger Cove
Taku - Campbell

Taku - Campbell

4/5(1 area review)

If you're spending some time in Taku - Campbell, Dimond Center and Campbell Creek Greenbelt Park are top sights worth seeing.

Taku - Campbell

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Day trip destinations from Anchorage

Frequently asked questions

Is Anchorage worth visiting?
Anchorage offers a unique blend of culture, attractions and local charm. Whether you're into history, nature or local cuisine, there are many things you'll enjoy here.
How do I spend a day in Anchorage?
Kick-start your day with a visit to Alaska Native Heritage Centre and Anchorage Museum. Then, explore other parts of Anchorage for local dining and a little retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Anchorage?
The top tourist attraction in Anchorage is Alaska Native Heritage Centre, so be sure to include it on your sightseeing itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Anchorage?
Three days will give you enough time to check out many city sights, including Alaska Native Heritage Centre, Anchorage Museum and Ship Creek Viewing Platform. The average stay in Anchorage is two days. If you feel the urge to extend your escape, Girdwood isn't far away.
Is Anchorage a walkable city?
With vibrant neighbourhoods and leading attractions within walking distance of the city centre, Anchorage is a good place to discover on foot. Have fun wandering between Anchorage Museum and Ship Creek Viewing Platform. Then take a stroll around Midtown Anchorage, located 3 kilometres from downtown, and Downtown Anchorage, which is roughly 0.32 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Anchorage with kids?
Whether you're vacationing with tiny adventurers or hard-to-please teens, a schedule filled with fun activities sets the tone for a great escape. Check out our ideas for what to do in Anchorage with kids.

What to do in Anchorage for adults?
There's no shortage of things to do in Anchorage, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Cap off your day with a visit to William A. Egan Civic and Convention Centre or Alaska Airlines Centre.
Are there free things to do in Anchorage?
In Anchorage, Ship Creek Viewing Platform is a top spot for anyone wishing to see the city without opening their wallet. Also, wander around the other neighbourhoods and green spaces, and speak with a local tour guide. It's a simple way to explore the best free things to do in Anchorage.

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