If you’re planning a trip to Alaska, here are 7 things you must do in Anchorage. I’ve had my share of adventures in this beautiful place with my husband Brad and our pitbull Tim. You can read more about our adventures and see Brad’s photography at our blog Door No. 2. I hope this list helps you adventure well!
Bike the Coastal Trail
Stretching 11 miles from downtown Anchorage to Kincaid Park, the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail makes a perfect afternoon outing for walkers, cyclists, and nature lovers alike. The paved trail is well maintained and mostly flat (with one long climb to Kincaid Park at the far end). There’s benches along the way so you watch the tide come in, the sea birds hunting for food, the people going by, or the planes taking off from the nearby Ted Steven’s International Airport. Keep your eyes out for moose as well, which are often seen along the trail, but be sure to give them space as they can be dangerous if provoked. You can rent a bike from one of several downtown options, including Downtown Bike Rental or Pablo’s Bicycle Rental.
Eat Seafood
Alaska is home to some of the best wild caught fish on the planet. The Anchorage restaurants serve up delicious renditions of salmon, halibut, rockfish, and more. Some of our favorite places to grab a bite in Anchorage include The Glacier Brewhouse, Simon and Seafort’s, and the Snow City Cafe. If fish is not your jam, try a bison burger or some local reindeer sausage.
Hike Flattop
Get outside the city for some incredible views of the Cook Inlet and surrounding mountain ranges. On a clear day, you may even see Mt. Denali, over 200 miles northwest. The trailhead starts well above the city, and another 1.5 miles and 1350 feet of elevation will get you to the summit. (If you prefer views without the work, there’s a short path from the parking lot to a lovely overlook.) Drive yourself, or take the shuttle from downtown Anchorage for $22 round trip.
Visit the Museum
Perfect for a rainy day, the Anchorage Museum is located right downtown, with plenty of exhibits to keep you occupied all day. They offer broad topics of art and technology, as well as rotating exhibits to learn more about local history and native Alaskan culture. If you’re lucky enough to be there on the first Friday of the month, it (and many of the other museums and galleries around town) is FREE!
Drink Craft Beer
Like most other major cities, Anchorage’s brewery scene is growing quickly. Drinking craft beer is a must for you ‘things to do in Alaska’ list. From tap rooms with food trucks, to large establishments with full service menus, there are many options to suit your vibe. Choose from local names such as Midnight Sun, Bleeding Heart, Denali, and 49th State, or nationally sold brands such as Alaskan and King Street. There’s even a local cidery – Double Shovel – to satisfy your sweet tooth or your gluten intolerance.
Ice Cream at Wild Scoops
Wild Schools whips up handcrafted, small batch ice cream featuring local ingredients and unique Alaskan flavors like “Spruce Tip” and “Rhubarb Crumble.” This definitely tops the list of things to do in Alaska. It is worth the wait – which is sometimes necessary given its popularity. Go for that extra indulgence and get it “Baked Alaska” style, with torched marshmallow meringue on top.
Shop in Ankorage
If souvenirs are what you seek, there is an abundance of gift shops downtown to peruse. Walking down 4th St. you will find clothing, jewelry, trinkets, furs, knives, candies, syrups, and other local and hand-made goods.
I hope this helps you Adventure Well in Anchorage! Check out some of Sara’s recommended accessories for your trip and you’ll be ready to explore. If you need more ideas for things to do in Alaska check out my blog.
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