Anchorage AlaskaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Anchorage, Alaska.
1. Alaska Railroad
SCENIC WILDERNESS JOURNEY
The Alaska Railroad, completed in 1923, connects many of Alaska's most popular destinations including Anchorage, Talkeetna, Denali National Park, and Fairbanks. This iconic rail journey showcases panoramic views of Alaska's wilderness and opportunities for wildlife viewing through scenic tours like the Coastal Classic and Glacier Discovery. The railroad serves as both a historical landmark and a practical transportation option for tourists exploring the region's natural beauty.
2. Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
RESCUED ANIMAL SANCTUARY
The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is a wildlife sanctuary with spacious natural enclosures for rescued Alaskan animals, including rare wood bison and musk ox. Visitors can enjoy animal feeding times and conservation education programs throughout their visit. The center focuses on providing a safe haven for injured and orphaned wildlife while educating the public about Alaska's diverse fauna.
3. Anchorage Museum
CULTURAL HERITAGE HUB
The Anchorage Museum is dedicated to the history and culture of Alaska's indigenous tribes, featuring interactive exhibits, native artifacts, and local art. The museum offers a comprehensive look at Alaska's past and present through its diverse collections and educational programming. Its family-friendly approach makes complex cultural and historical topics accessible to visitors of all ages.
4. Tony Knowles Coastal Trail
SCENIC URBAN PATHWAY
The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail runs for 11 miles along the coast of Anchorage, from Second Avenue in Downtown to Kincaid Park in the west. This paved trail is popular among hikers, bikers, and joggers, offering stunning views of mountains across Cook Inlet, including the famous Sleeping Lady (Mount Susitna). Along the route, visitors can explore Westchester Lagoon and Point Woronzof Park, both offering wildlife viewing opportunities and natural beauty just minutes from downtown.
5. Alaska Native Heritage Center
INDIGENOUS CULTURAL EXPERIENCE
The Alaska Native Heritage Center is an interactive cultural center featuring live demonstrations, exhibits on Alaskan native tribes, and guided tours through native houses. The center highlights the resilience and traditions of Alaska's indigenous peoples through immersive educational experiences. Visitors gain insight into the diverse cultures, languages, and histories of Alaska's native communities.
6. Portage Glacier
MAJESTIC ICE FORMATION
Portage Glacier is a spectacular natural ice formation located about 50 miles southeast of Anchorage. The glacier can be viewed via boat tours on Portage Lake or from the Begich, Boggs Visitor Center, which offers educational exhibits about glacial formations. Its accessibility makes it one of Alaska's most visited attractions, offering visitors a close-up view of the state's dramatic glacial landscapes.
7. Flattop Mountain Trail
POPULAR HIKING DESTINATION
Flattop Mountain Trail is one of Anchorage's most popular hiking destinations, offering panoramic views of the city, Cook Inlet, and surrounding mountain ranges. The trail varies in difficulty, with the final ascent requiring some scrambling over rocks to reach the distinctive flat summit. Accessible year-round, it provides different experiences each season, from wildflower meadows in summer to snowy winter wonderland views.
8. Eagle River Nature Center
WILDERNESS GATEWAY EXPERIENCE
Eagle River Nature Center is a nature sanctuary featuring self-guided trails through serene landscapes, with chances to view local wildlife such as bears and salmon. The center offers touchable animal artifacts and educational programs about the Chugach State Park ecosystem it serves as a gateway to. Its accessible location makes it a perfect day trip for families wanting to experience Alaska's wilderness without venturing too far from Anchorage.
9. Mount Alyeska Resort
YEAR-ROUND MOUNTAIN RECREATION
Mount Alyeska Resort is a mountain destination with diverse dining options and Alpine activities, featuring scenic tram rides and quality ski slopes. During winter, it offers some of Alaska's best skiing and snowboarding, while summer visitors enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing. The resort's Nordic Spa provides a relaxing retreat after a day of mountain adventures, making it a complete recreational destination regardless of season.
10. Fur Rondy Festival
WINTER CULTURAL CELEBRATION
The Fur Rondy Festival is an exciting winter event in Anchorage featuring unique Alaskan competitions and cultural celebrations. Highlights include the Rondy Grand Prix, World Championship Sled Dog Race, and impressive Snow Sculpture Competitions that showcase local talent and traditions. This festival, officially known as the Fur Rendezvous Festival, has been a cornerstone of Anchorage winter culture since 1935, bringing together locals and tourists alike.
11. Westchester Lagoon
URBAN WILDLIFE OASIS
Westchester Lagoon is a wild urban oasis located just a 15-minute walk from downtown Anchorage. The lagoon features walking paths, picnic areas, and opportunities for bird watching and wildlife viewing throughout the seasons. During winter, it transforms into a popular ice skating location for locals, while summer brings kayakers and paddle boarders to its calm waters.
12. Point Woronzof Park
COASTAL VIEWPOINT PARADISE
Point Woronzof Park is a large wooded area with running, hiking, and biking trails offering jaw-dropping views across Cook Inlet. Visitors can marvel at stunning vistas of the mountains including the famous Sleeping Lady (Mount Susitna) while watching for marine wildlife. The park is particularly known for its spectacular sunset views and is a popular spot for photographers capturing Anchorage's natural beauty.
13. Chugach State Park
VAST WILDERNESS PLAYGROUND
Chugach State Park is a nearly half-million-acre natural area located at Anchorage's backdoor, offering immediate access to wild Alaskan landscapes. The park features diverse ecosystems, from coastal forests to alpine tundra, with hundreds of miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing. Its proximity to Alaska's largest city makes it one of the most accessible wilderness areas in the state, allowing visitors to experience true Alaskan backcountry without a lengthy journey.
14. Kenai Peninsula
COASTAL ADVENTURE DESTINATION
The Kenai Peninsula is a spectacular coastal region within easy reach of Anchorage, offering fishing, wildlife viewing, and glacier experiences. Visitors can explore charming towns like Seward and Homer while enjoying activities ranging from world-class salmon fishing to kayaking among fjords. The peninsula's diverse landscapes include everything from mountain ranges and glaciers to coastal rainforests and pristine beaches, making it a microcosm of Alaska's natural wonders.
15. Simon & Seafort's Saloon & Grill
CLASSIC ALASKAN DINING
Simon & Seafort's Saloon & Grill is an iconic Anchorage restaurant offering spectacular views of Cook Inlet alongside classic Alaskan seafood dishes. The restaurant has been serving locals and tourists since 1978, building a reputation for quality ingredients and warm hospitality. Their menu highlights fresh Alaskan seafood including king crab, halibut, and salmon, paired with an extensive wine list and craft cocktails.