Fun Things to Do in Anchorage

Top Anchorage Attractions

Alaska Native Heritage Center

The Alaska Native Heritage Center is the place to learn about the state's culture and history, particularly that of Alaska's First People. Exhibits feature traditional art and artifacts, the impact of Alaska statehood, and contemporary art and issues. The Alaska Native Heritage Center also offers classes, workshops, and special events.

The Anchorage Museum at Rasmussen Center

The Anchorage Museum at Rasmussen Center continues to expand as it offers exhibits covering the state's art, history, and science. Visitors can view contemporary and traditional art, learn about the state's history and native peoples, and participate in a variety of hands-on, interactive exhibits. The Anchorage Museum's Chugach Gallery allows you to rest and enjoy fabulous mountain views. Museum amenities include a cafe, gift shop, and guided tours. The Imaginarium Science Discovery Center is moving to the expanded facility and will open in 2010.

The Anchorage Alaska Public Lands Information Center

Most people visiting Alaska are interested in spending time outdoors in state parks, national parks, or other public lands. The Anchorage Alaska Public Lands Information Center is a great place to start your adventure. Representatives from the various government agencies are all on hand to answer your questions about where to go, what to do, how to get there, and special permit, license, or gear requirements. You can pick up free maps and brochures or purchase recreation passes and guide books. The Anchorage Alaska Public Lands Information Center is also a museum of sorts, offering exhibits on the natural history and culture of Alaska.

Take a Hike in Anchorage

Anchorage, recognized as a "top trail town", offers a wide selection of trails, allowing visitors the chance to enjoy time in the scenic outdoors without the need to travel far from town. Major trails in the Anchorage system include the Campbell Creek Trail, the Torrey Knowles Coastal Trail, and the Lanie Fleischer Chester Creek Trail, and the Ship Creek Trail.

Sightseeing Tours and Cruises from Anchorage

There are many Alaska tours and cruises available out of Anchorage, focusing on everything from wildlife viewing and fishing adventures to whale watching or glacier sightseeing. Some of the more popular and established tour companies include:

• Alaska Railroad Scenic Rail Tours
• Gray Line of Alaska
• Major Marine Tours
• Phillips Cruises and Tours

Eagle River Nature Center

The non-profit Eagle River Nature Center is located within Chugach State Park. Start with a visit to their log-cabin visitor center before heading out on their network of nature trails and boardwalks. Whether you choose the short and easy trails or the more challenging ones, you'll enjoy fabulous water and mountain views all around. There's a good chance you'll see some Alaskan wildlife as well.

The Alaska Zoo

The mission of The Alaska Zoo in Anchorage is "to promote the conservation of Arctic, Sub-Arctic and like-climate species through education, research and community enrichment." They have critters from the region and from around the world. Animals on exhibit at The Alaska Zoo include polar bears, moose, lynx, otters, bears, musk ox, tigers, wolverine, and caribou.

Alaska Heritage Museum at Wells Fargo

Learn about company and state history by viewing Wells Fargo's private collection of Alaskan artifacts. The exhibits are free to the public at the Wells Fargo branch at 301 West Northern Lights Boulevard.

Alaska Botanical Garden

You can wander over a mile of nature trails within the Alaska Botanical Garden, enjoying the local scenery and wildlife along with the well-designed gardens. Themed gardens include herbs, perennials, and wildflowers. While the gardens are open year-round, the best time to visit is June through August.