Anchorage Activities

Anchorage is a vibrant city surrounded by six mountain ranges, boarded by Cook Inlet and home to over half of the population of the State of Alaska. No matter what time of year, there is something to do. Known as the "City of Lights" and the "hanging basket capital of the world", Anchorage surprises many visitors with its abundance of beauty and culture. Here are some of our suggestions for activities in the Anchorage area. Enjoy!

Alaska Native Heritage Center
The Alaska Native Heritage Center is Alaska's premier interactive cultural experience and the only place in Alaska where you will come face to face with all of Alaska's native cultures. You'll see performances by authentic Native dance groups or hear stories shared by village elders. The Hall of Cultures features traditional and contemporary Native lifestyles and Alaska Native artists sharing centuries old crafts with you.
Summer Hours: Daily 9:00am - 6:00pm Adult Pricing: $20.95
Child 7 -16 Pricing: $15.95 (children under 6 free)
BOOK THIS TOUR l Map and Driving Directions

Alaska Zoo
The Alaska Zoo exhibits year-round and also provides homes for arctic and sub-arctic wildlife as well as some exotic animals. There is a free shuttle from most major hotels.

Bicycle Rentals
Anchorage has an incredible greenbelt and trail system right. Trails run from downtown along the coast or through town along many of Anchorage's creek systems. Look ahead while on the trail and you may see a moose or two! Another great way to explore these trails is by bicycle. A convenient bicycle rental shop is on the corner of 5th and L St., at the Copper Whale Inn. Access to the famous Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is right down the hill. Call the inn for rental information at (907)258-7999.

Anchorage Shopping

Anchorage is the economic center of Alaska where many Alaskans come to shop. A city rich with talent is proud to boast of the many Alaskan vendors who have worked hard all winter preparing their handmade soaps, jams, arts and crafts for you to take home. You can find most anything you need here as well as some great Alaskan souvenirs, art and keepsakes.

Malls
Anchorage boasts four major malls. The most centrally located mall for visitors is the Fifth Avenue Mall, located downtown.
Map and Directions

Gifts and Souvenirs
In addition to the local Alaskan arts and crafts available at the Anchorage RV Park, there are many gift shops easily accessible in downtown Anchorage with a wide variety of Alaska souvenirs and gifts.

Authentic Native Arts and Crafts
An excellent place to purchase authentic Alaska Native art and crafts is at the Alaska Native Medical Center gift shop. Proceeds go directly to each individual artist.
Map and Directions

Two other great shops which you can be assured carry authentic pieces are at the Anchorage Museum of History and Art gift shop and at the Alaska Native Heritage Center gift shop.

Anchorage Culture and Heritage

There are a number of places where you can learn about Anchorage's history and culture.

Alaska Native Heritage Center
Mentioned above, this is a singular place to learn about Alaska Native culture and the only place in Alaska where you will come face to face with all of Alaska's native cultures.
Map and Directions

Anchorage Museum of History and Art
This museum has a comprehensive collection of artifacts and pieces documenting the history of Alaska from the end of the Ice Ages to the present.
Map and Directions

Anchorage on a Shoestring - Free Things to Do

There many things that you can do to enjoy Anchorage that don't cost anything at all.

Anchorage Saturday & Sunday Markets
Shop the open air market for authentic gifts handmade by Alaskans such as soaps, jams and jellies, arts and crafts, or specialty items. The market is the best place to purchase fresh produce grown in the Mat-Su Valley and carefully selected for Anchorage residents and visitors.

Tony Knowles Coastal Trail
Named after a former Anchorage mayor and Alaska governor, the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail hugs the Anchorage shoreline and provides great views of Cook Inlet, and on a good day, Denali. Access to the trail system from downtown is at the northern end of 2nd Avenue, or at the western end of 5th Avenue.

Hike Flattop Mountain
Flattop Mountain is the most climbed mountain in Alaska and offers dramatic views of Anchorage, Cook Inlet, and the Chugach Mountain range. Access info is available from the Alaska Department of Natural Resources.

Take a Drive Along the Spectacular Turnagain Arm
Watch the rocky cliffs to see Dall Sheep. The tides in this area change up to 27' in 12 hours, revealing a muddy quicksand-like beach at low tide. Continue this breathtaking journey through the Portage Valley and over Turnagain pass to Seward. Keep a sharp look out for moose, mountain goats and black bears this time of year!

Wild Salmon on Parade
Every year Alaskan artists participate in this outdoor art exhibit to the benefit of visitors and locals alike. These artists design a salmon sculpture and all are displayed around the downtown area. The pieces are auctioned at the end of the season as a fundraiser for local charities.

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