Anchorage Travel Guide + 20 Things to Do in Anchorage (January 2026 Update)
Updated January 2026 – Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city (~290,000 residents), blends urban amenities with immediate access to wilderness—hike mountains, spot moose in town, or bike coastal trails, all against Chugach peaks and Cook Inlet.
It’s not Alaska’s “highlight” for epic remoteness, but perfect as a trip base/start/end with culture, food, and easy nature.
Key Tips Before Visiting
- Best Time: Jun–Aug (long days, festivals); May/Sep shoulders cheaper/milder crowds; winter for aurora/skiing.
- Safety: Higher crime than U.S. average (violent ~2-3x national); downtown/midtown safe daytime, caution at night—avoid isolated areas, secure valuables.
- Getting Around: Rent a car (essential—public buses limited); Uber/Lyft available but pricey.
- Costs: Summer highs; shoulder seasons better.
Top 20 Things to Do
Culture & History
- Alaska Native Heritage Center – Immerse in 11 Indigenous cultures via villages, dances, artifacts ($25 adult).
- Anchorage Museum – Art, history, science; strong Alaska exhibits ($20).
- Alaska Aviation Museum – Bush planes key to Alaska’s story.
- Eklutna Historical Park – Russian Orthodox + Athabascan spirit houses.
Outdoors & Trails
- Flattop Mountain Hike – Iconic 3-mile round-trip, panoramic views (shuttle/parking fee).
- Tony Knowles Coastal Trail – 11-mile paved path; bike rentals, inlet/moose views.
- Chugach State Park Hikes – Trails from easy (Eagle/Symphony Lakes) to challenging; half-million acres.
- Potter Marsh – Boardwalk birdwatching; moose common.
- Earthquake Park – 1964 quake site; trails to inlet views.
- Kincaid Park – Trails, beaches, Denali views clear days.
Wildlife & Parks
- Spot Urban Moose – Common in greenbelts/trails (safe distance!).
- Alaska Zoo – Rescued/rehab animals.
Downtown & More
- Downtown Walk – Murals, shops, historic signs.
14-20: Breweries (scene booming—try 49th State rooftop, Glacier Brewhouse seafood/ales, Midnight Sun loft, Anchorage Brewing).
Markets (summer weekends), performing arts.
Where to Stay
Downtown/midtown best.
- Budget: Basecamp Anchorage (hostel vibe).
- Midrange: Inlet Tower.
- Splurge: Hotel Captain Cook (views, central).
Eat & Drink
- Moose’s Tooth (pizza + brews).
- Glacier Brewhouse (seafood, house beers).
- Snow City Cafe (breakfast).
Brewery hopping essential!
Anchorage surprises with city-wilderness mix—great hub for Alaska adventures!