City guides
United States of America
Alaska
Things to do in Anchorage
Travellers who visit Anchorage are drawn by the glorious wilderness on the city's doorstep, which showcases quintessential Alaskan vistas of sparkling glaciers, rugged snowcapped mountains, shimmering lakes and enchanting wildlife. However, the destination still has an intriguing pioneer charm as it remains a gathering point for Americans and foreigners looking to make their fortune in various trades.
Within the city, the most popular things to see include the Alaska Native Heritage Center and the Anchorage Museum of History and Art. Downtown Anchorage hosts the fantastic Anchorage Market and Festival every weekend in the summer, which is a great attraction for visitors. The market offers an array of locally made goods including clothing, paintings, handmade jewellery and babushka dolls (Russian nesting dolls), as well as a great selection of food from all over the world. There are entertaining music and dance performances as well, and a special Kids' Market allows local children between the ages of eight and 17 to sell their hand-made items to raise money for charities and other organisations.
Most tourists quickly exit the urban sprawl to enjoy the wonders just beyond the city, such as Prince William Sound, Chugach National Forest and Flattop Mountain, which is the most climbed mountain in Alaska. The Denali National Park is one of the top attractions in the state and encompasses many of the most beautiful landscapes Alaska has to offer. Those in need of some information or advice should pop into the Anchorage Log Cabin Visitor Information Center, situated at 524 West Fourth Avenue.
Denali National Park and Preserve
Famous for its spectacular mountain vistas, abundant wildlife, glaciers, vast expanses of sub-arctic tundra, and North America's highest mountain, Mount McKinley, Denali National P…
Denali National Park and Preserve
Famous for its spectacular mountain vistas, abundant wildlife, glaciers, vast expanses of sub-arctic tundra, and North America's highest mountain, Mount McKinley, Denali National Park and Preserve is a real wilderness area that attracts millions of visitors each year. More than six million acres are home to grizzly bears, caribou, moose, Dall sheep, wolves and numerous species of birds. The main attraction is the snow-covered massif of Mount McKinley, towering 20,320ft (6,096m) above the peaks of the Alaska Range, the definitive symbol of untamed Alaska. On a clear day its twin peaks can be seen from Anchorage, 149 miles (240km) away. The Alaska Range divides the park into north and south sides, with the majority of visitors accessing the north where the main visitors centre is located. Mountaineers seeking out the challenges of Mount McKinley need to access the park from the south side. Other peaks offer excellent climbing opportunities for those not wishing to risk the mountain that has earned its reputation as one of the world's most difficult climbs. The park region also offers a wide variety of other activities including day hikes or backcountry hiking, camping, mountain biking, whitewater rafting and ice climbing.
Website www.nps.gov/dena/index.htm
Anchorage Museum of History and Art
The world-class Museum of History and Art is the largest museum in Alaska and is one of the most visited attractions in Anchorage. The exhibits cover the history and cultures of Al…
Anchorage Museum of History and Art
The world-class Museum of History and Art is the largest museum in Alaska and is one of the most visited attractions in Anchorage. The exhibits cover the history and cultures of Alaska (from Native American beginnings to American colonisation) and explore the natural resources and landscapes of the country. Part of exploring the cultures of the country is exhibiting Alaskan art, and the museum has a good permanent collection and hosts multiple temporary art exhibitions. Art, history and the natural sciences are combined to great effect in this wonderful museum. Visitors of all ages should find something to interest them.
Website www.anchoragemuseum.org
Alaska Native Heritage Center
The Alaska Native Heritage Center is a wonderful place for visitors to learn about the culture and heritage of the native Alaskan people while in Anchorage. Indigenous traditions, …
Alaska Native Heritage Center
The Alaska Native Heritage Center is a wonderful place for visitors to learn about the culture and heritage of the native Alaskan people while in Anchorage. Indigenous traditions, customs and lifestyles are showcased in the centre's exhibits, which include artefacts such as tools, watercraft, clothing, pieces of art and musical instruments. The centre also hosts local storytelling, dancing and craft events which help to bring the traditions to life for visitors. The Alaska Native Heritage Center is closed in winter, but hosts monthly cultural events.
Website www.alaskanative.net