Visit Anchorage

Fall Anchorage Cityscape

Why Visit Anchorage

Iconic wildlife, countless glaciers, incredible parklands: Anchorage combines vibrant city life with the best of Alaska’s great outdoors. Downtown streams teem with wild salmon, city trails connect to state park paths and distant mountain peaks, and visitors can enjoy upscale urban amenities while still enjoying easy access to world-class wilderness.

Who Should Go

Outdoor Enthusiasts

National Parks often get top billing – and there are 5 nearby – but Chugach State Park and the adjacent national forest are where locals go to enjoy the outdoors. And with 300 miles of trails, the Chugach offers plenty of room to explore. Anchorage also boasts 135 miles of paved trails weaving through the city, all without leaving town.

Cultural Explorers

Anchorage is sometimes called “Alaska’s largest village” since the city is home to many Alaska Native people from each of Alaska’s Indigenous cultures. Stops like the Anchorage Museum and Alaska Native Heritage Center provide accessible ways to learn about Alaska’s diverse cultures and unique history stretching back 10,000 years.

Wildlife Watchers

In addition to moose, visitors have the chance to spot bears, Dall sheep, eagles, salmon, beluga whales and more. Millions of migratory birds stop off in Anchorage during seasonal migrations. The Alaska Zoo and Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center also offer up-close looks at Alaska animals in natural settings.

Winter Wonder Seekers

Fresh powder on sparkling Chugach mountain peaks, skating on frozen city ponds, sled dogs, sleigh rides, shimmering northern lights, and cozy days spent exploring Anchorage’s favorite breweries, bakeries, and local restaurants – winter in Anchorage dazzles with only-in-Alaska experiences; hidden gems to treasure for a lifetime.