As long as we’re being honest, you aren’t going to find yourself disappointed by the sights of Anchorage, Alaska. The finest that nature has to offer statewide is well available for your viewing pleasure, and with a diversified portfolio of unique amenities, Anchorage can do more than wow your senses. The Anchorage Heritage Garden alone features perennial gardens, a wildflower trail, and a herb garden for visitors to explore. Once you’ve had your fill of genuine natural wonder in Alaska’s largest city, check out the local waterpark, visit the polar bears at the zoo, enjoy outdoor adventures in the national park, or familiarize yourself with the area’s rich local history and native cultures! Whether it’s a lake or your love for recreation, there’s something for everyone in Anchorage.
Read on to find out about the things to do in Anchorage that you can get to today!
1. Anchorage Museum
April's Object of the Month is now on view in the museum's atrium. These alliqsiit (grass boots or socks) made by Lucy Jacobs of Bethel make use of one of the most basic and abundant materials in Alaska.
Posted by Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center on Monday, 11 April 2016
Learn more about the beauty of the surrounding sights and sounds when you visit the best of Alaska at the Anchorage Museum! Scintillating exhibits abound at this educational Anchorage haven; with constantly changing displays on a wide variety of topics, including art, history, ethnography, ecology, and astronomy, the Anchorage Museum promises a dynamic blend between excitement and knowledge to both visitors and locals alike.
Learn more about the beauty of the surrounding sights and sounds when you visit the best of Alaska at the Anchorage Museum! Scintillating exhibits abound at this educational and major landmark; with constantly changing displays on a wide variety of topics, including art, history, ethnography, ecology, and astronomy. The place features touring exhibits as well as informative exhibits about native cultures. Nestled in the city center, Anchorage Museum promises a dynamic blend between excitement and knowledge to both visitors and locals alike.
Holistically dedicated to the preservation of its information, and to the education of all of those who walk through its doors, the noble cause of one of the state’s premiere museums means that it’s always looking for the best way to put a smile on your face. Where history, art, and more all come alive before you, there the family-friendly Anchorage Museum will exist as a staple of local Anchorage attractions!
Anchorage Museum
Address: 625 C St, Anchorage, AK 99501
Website: Anchorage Museum
2. Alaska Native Heritage Center
While you’re in the area, you’re going to want to come to discover the rich history that characterizes the Anchorage landscape. At the Alaska Native Heritage Center, you can learn about many of the individuals who played pivotal roles in transforming Anchorage from an unknown sector of ice into the Alaskan destination that it is today! The Alaska Native Heritage Center, a major landmark for social culture and an excellent example of native Alaskan preservation, promises to deliver to you an authentic representation of the heritage and indigenous cultures so valuable to Alaskan natives.
Come learn exciting details about the original Alaskans, the indigenous individuals who first inhabited the lands which now exist as Anchorage, as well as the surrounding regions. With award-winning high school educational programs, native artifacts, and a truly spectacular range of indoor exhibits, the Alaska Native Heritage Center isn’t a location you’ll want to miss if you’re looking to live the Alaskan experience!
Alaska Native Heritage Center
Address: 8800 Heritage Center Dr, Anchorage, AK 99504
Website: Alaska Native Heritage Center
3. Kincaid Park
Get in touch with true Alaskan nature at Kincaid Park! It is a popular destination for birders and outdoor enthusiasts. Without ever leaving the Anchorage borders, you can actually experience some of the best mountain bike routes and acres of hiking trails. You can also enjoy black bear and moose sighting venues found anywhere in the state of Alaska. Kincaid Park, where you can enjoy cool Alaskan breezes as well as the warmth of the summer months, also features the iconic Lekisch Loop; at ten kilometers (6 miles) in total distance, this path is ranked the hilliest official 10K route in the entire United States.
Whether you want to explore serene walking paths, jog along their well-paved pathways, or an opportunity to stand at lake edges and soak in the genuine privilege that is native Alaska, this 1,400-acre park with rich wildlife habitats proves the perfect location to introduce you to the outdoors!
Kincaid Park
Address: 9401 Raspberry Rd, Anchorage, AK 99502
Website: Kincaid Park
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. Alaska Zoo
Another throwback to a cute zoo animal in our ongoing #cuteanimaltweetoff series #AlaskaZoo! We occasionally receive...
Posted by The Alaska Zoo on Monday, 30 January 2017
Your remote location doesn’t mean you can’t experience some of the finest animal species found anywhere on the planet! At the Alaska Zoo, verifiable wildlife exists for your viewing and educational pleasure. The location draws nearly 200,000 visitors each year, and with onsite spectacles like polar bears, snow leopards, musk ox, a brown bear, and more, you’re sure to enjoy every inch of these grounds. With wildly affordable admission rates and a constantly changing host of natural attractions, you’d be wise to place the Alaska Zoo near the top of your Anchorage priority list!
Alaska Zoo
Address: 4731 O'Malley Rd, Anchorage, AK 99507
Website: Alaska Zoo
5. Tony Knowles Coastal Trail
When you’re looking for a quick immersion into Anchorage wilderness, take advantage of your proximity to the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, and make the outdoor experience your own! Widely recognized as the most popular trail in all of Anchorage, Knowles Coastal Trail earns its reputation with its paved roads and scenic views. Without ever leaving the borders of the 11-mile paved path, you can gaze upon moose and the occasional eagle in their natural habitat! At vistas, where you can enjoy sweeping views of the crystal clear waters, you might even be able to spot the occasional beluga whale!
Mount McKinley, the highest peak in all of North America, is also viewable from the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. This local outdoor staple requires only a good pair of walking shoes or hiking boots, and the desire to participate in an authentic Anchorage adventure!
Tony Knowles Coastal Trail
Website: Tony Knowles Coastal Trail
6. Portage Glacier
Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula is home to our next recommended Anchorage attraction: the Portage Glacier! Just south of Portage Glacier is the massive structure that exists as one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders not just in Anchorage, but in the entire state. Take the local boat cruises to learn about the glacier’s history and current size, or simply find a spot close to the glacier, and take in the full, unabated scope of its massive height and width!
Anchorage’s Portage Glacier continues to prove an absolute staple for any serious visitor to Anchorage, given its sheer history, as well as its crystal-blue hue. Make sure that your trip to Anchorage is complete, and stop by the Portage Glacier, for a free introduction to one of Alaska’s greatest outdoor treasures!
Portage Glacier
Website: Glacier Tours
7. Alaska Botanical Garden
Who says that there’s no color in the winter months? When you come by the Alaska Botanical Garden in Anchorage, prepare to have your expectations for brilliantly-colored wildlife effectively redefined by the sights. This massive garden features an incredible variety of amazing wildlife. The Alaska Botanical Garden also plays host to a variety of local events! If you’re in the mood for “An Evening in the Garden” or any one of a series of local wildflower identification classes, you’d be wise to sign up before the educational opportunities at this wildlife haven fill up!
At the Alaska Botanical Garden, it’s all about the sheer capacity that nature exhibits for beauty. Come see for yourself why so many locals admire the distinct colors and hues of the finest flowers in Anchorage!
Alaska Botanical Garden
Address: 4601 Campbell Airstrip Rd, Anchorage, AK 99507
Website: Alaska Botanical Garden
8. H20asis Indoor Waterpark
Posted by H2Oasis Indoor Waterpark on Friday, 6 January 2012
When it’s time to crank up the excitement, join us indoors at the H20asis Indoor Waterpark! Featuring a diversified variety of wildly exciting water fun, you won’t even want to think about leaving! The H20asis Indoor Waterpark, as a fine family-friendly venue, features a wave pool with six water cannons, as well as a lazy river just for kids! If you’re the adventurous type, find yourself whipping around the turns of each amazingly complex waterslide! At its opening in 2003, H20asis Indoor Waterpark was the fifth-largest indoor waterpark in the entire United States! No matter the outdoor weather, it’s always a party indoors at the H20asis Indoor Waterpark!
H20asis Indoor Waterpark
Address: 1520 O'Malley Rd, Anchorage, AK 99507
Website: H20asis Indoor Waterpark
9. Goose Lake
Keith Beazer shared this Alaska sunrise at Goose Lake Park. Submit your photos: http://bit.ly/2dd6adS
Posted by KTVA 11 News on Sunday, 9 October 2016
Your search for the amazing views you’d expect from a natural haven such as Anchorage has found its appropriate end at Goose Lake. Part of the official Anchorage Park Foundation, this excellently maintained public space is open for everyone’s enjoyment. Just outside of the area’s university district, Goose Lake exists as an oasis of Anchorage peace.
With a play structure for children, and thick trees bordering the space on many sides, it’s a place to forget the worries of the day, and to allow yourself sufficient immersion in everything that makes Anchorage nature truly unforgettable. Slated for recreational use in perpetuity, Goose Lake features numerous trails, cross-country ski trails, and even swimming beaches! Make the easy decision to frequent the finest recreation in the area, and lose yourself in the peace of Goose Lake!
Goose Lake
Address: 2811 UAA Dr, Anchorage, AK 99508
Website: Goose Lake
10. Eagle River Nature Center
Eagle River Nature Center is another one of the most beautiful places to visit in Anchorage. Individuals of all ages and sizes can explore the stunning Anchorage outdoors around them! With available facility rentals and an impressive amount of accompanying trails, the Eagle River Nature Center has existed since 1996 as a haven for the spectacular. You never know what you’ll see next! Catch sight of a rare sea otter in their natural habitat, check out moose from any one of their viewing decks, and even participate in local volunteer projects! Whether it’s the nature you’re interested in, or the exposure to the outdoors, at the Eagle River Nature Center, Anchorage’s best comes alive!
Eagle River Nature Center
Address: 32750 Eagle River Rd, Eagle River, AK 99577
Website: Eagle River Nature Center
11. Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (from USD 129.0)
Alaska’s wildlife is just as noteworthy as its natural beauty. This state is home to amazing animals and the best place to see them is at Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. Embark on a guided tour of Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center to see bison, bears, moose, caribou, and more in their natural habitat. Thereafter, make your way to Turnagain Arm tidal flats that offer you opportunities to see beluga whales and Dall sheep. On the drive back, you will also get glimpses of glaciers and visit Potter Marsh Bird Sanctuary for a bit of bird-watching.
Wildlife and Glaciers with a walk in the Rainforest
Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes
12. Alaska Aviation Museum
Aviation buffs will enjoy visiting Alaska Aviation Museum in Anchorage. Located on Lake Hood, the world’s largest seaplane base, this museum has an amazing collection of vintage aircraft memorabilia, photographs, documents, films, original artifacts, and interactive displays highlighting the best of Alaska’s aviation history. The highlight of this museum for most visitors is the various historic planes, from military aircraft to seaplanes to helicopters. A gift shop is also available to buy lovely souvenirs.
Alaska Aviation Museum
Address: 4721 Aircraft Dr, Anchorage, AK 99502, United States
Website: Alaska Aviation Museum
Opening hours: Wed - Sat: 8am - 5pm (closed on Sun, Mon & Tue)
Price: 17 USD
Culture, nature, and excitement in Anchorage
Anchorage is truly a city for the ages. Its wide variety of assorted attractions includes indoor waterpark fun, outdoor admiration for the sheer wonder of nature, as well as various cultural and heritage experiences designed to educate the public as to the foundation of one of Alaska’s greatest cities. Come for the name, and stay for the fun in Alaska’s flagship city!
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