Top reasons to visit Anchorage
- Adventure and Outdoor Activities: Anchorage is a gateway to thrilling outdoor experiences, including fishing, skiing, and hiking in breathtaking landscapes.
- Cultural Attractions: Discover rich heritage through museums like the Anchorage Museum and explore historic buildings around the city.
- Scenic Parks: Enjoy the beauty of Kincaid Park and other urban parks, ideal for relaxation and outdoor fun.
- Family-Friendly Neighborhoods: Experience vibrant neighborhoods filled with charm, perfect for families and leisure travelers.
- Diverse Accommodations: Anchorage offers a range of lodging options from cozy B&Bs to lakeside hotels, catering to all types of travelers.
Find great hotels in Anchorage
Explore a diverse range of hotel accommodations in Anchorage, Alaska, perfect for every type of traveler. Whether you're seeking adventure, a business-friendly atmosphere, or a pet-friendly getaway, you'll find options that suit your needs. From cozy bed & breakfasts to lakeside hotels, Anchorage offers a variety of choices to ensure a memorable stay in this stunning destination.
- Alyeska Resort: A premier 4-star resort nestled in the stunning Alaskan landscape, Alyeska Resort is ideal for travelers seeking an adventurous getaway. With a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, this resort excels in offering ski and spa experiences. Guests can indulge in a full-service spa featuring massages and treatment rooms, or participate in a variety of outdoor activities, including snowboarding and cross-country skiing available onsite. The ski shuttle and lift provide easy access to the slopes, making it a haven for winter sports enthusiasts.
- The Lakefront Anchorage: This inviting 3.5-star hotel boasts a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10 and is tailored for families and business travelers alike. Situated near the scenic waters of Lake Hood, The Lakefront Anchorage offers a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, snowboarding, and skiing. Family-friendly amenities, including cribs and window guards for children, ensure a comfortable stay for guests of all ages. The hotel’s blend of adventure and convenience makes it a practical choice for both leisure and business visits.
- Puffin Inn of Anchorage: A budget-friendly motel with a warm and welcoming atmosphere, Puffin Inn of Anchorage is perfect for families and pet owners. This lodging option offers a variety of adventure activities nearby, including snowshoeing and mountain biking. With a focus on affordability, it provides essential amenities such as free cribs for children and a pet-friendly policy accommodating dogs and cats. Rated for its family-oriented services, Puffin Inn ensures a cozy and enjoyable stay for all its guests.
Where to stay in Anchorage
Anchorage, a vibrant metropolis, offers a perfect blend of adventure and stunning scenery for travelers. Explore its family-friendly neighborhoods filled with rich heritage, and marvel at the iconic dome ceilings in local architecture. Just a short drive away, the surrounding regions beckon with outdoor excursions and breathtaking landscapes, making Anchorage an ideal base for your Alaskan adventure. Discover the warmth of its friendly people and experience the charm of this unique American city.
- Girdwood: Nestled between the majestic mountains and lush forests, Girdwood is a charming city located just 64km southeast of Anchorage. This year-round destination is a haven for adventure enthusiasts, particularly in the winter, when skiers flock to the renowned Alyeska Resort. With its breathtaking views and access to the nearby national parks and glaciers, Girdwood offers a unique blend of outdoor activities and natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and exploring the scenic recreational areas that surround the town, making it an ideal spot for both thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.
- Downtown Anchorage: The heart of Anchorage, Downtown is buzzing with energy and offers visitors a perfect mix of urban convenience and outdoor charm. Located near the waterfront, this vibrant neighborhood is a hub for adventure, with easy access to parks, trails, and scenic views of the surrounding mountains. Downtown Anchorage is known for its diverse dining options, art galleries, and cultural venues, including the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts. During the summer months, the area comes alive with outdoor festivals and events, making it an exciting place to explore for travelers seeking both city life and natural beauty.
- Midtown Anchorage: A dynamic neighborhood located centrally in Anchorage, Midtown is a fantastic base for those looking to explore the great outdoors. Known for its accessibility to various recreational areas and ski fields, this area attracts visitors year-round who are eager to experience the stunning Alaskan scenery. With numerous parks and nearby national state parks, Midtown offers ample opportunities for hiking, skiing, and wildlife viewing. The neighborhood also features a variety of shops and restaurants, providing a perfect blend of convenience and adventure for travelers seeking a comprehensive Alaska experience.
Things to do in Anchorage
Shopping
In downtown Anchorage, explore the 5th Avenue Mall for a mix of popular brands and local shops. Don't miss the Anchorage Market for unique handmade crafts and Alaskan souvenirs, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and find memorable gifts for loved ones.
Recreation
Explore the Alaska Center for Acupuncture, where you can experience traditional healing practices and personalized wellness treatments. For outdoor rejuvenation, visit Kincaid Park, featuring scenic trails for hiking and biking amidst stunning views of the surrounding landscape and wildlife.
Adventure
Take a ride on the Alyeska Aerial Tram for stunning views of the surrounding mountains and Turnagain Arm. At the summit, explore hiking trails or dine while enjoying the breathtaking scenery. This experience offers outdoor adventure and family-friendly fun in a picturesque setting.
Nightlife
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Williwaw Social on 3rd Avenue, where you can enjoy a lively atmosphere with craft cocktails and entertainment. For a laid-back setting, visit The Broken Tooth Brewery for local brews and a cozy vibe.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Anchorage
To save money on your trip to Anchorage, consider visiting during the off-peak months of January, February, and November, when prices are lower. Sundays typically offer the best hotel rates, while Thursdays are the most expensive. Explore free attractions like the University of Alaska - Anchorage and Prince William Sound. For transportation, utilize the bus system or rent bikes for an economical way to get around. Use Expedia to find great hotel deals, package your reservations with flights, and filter results by budget and eco-friendly options for added savings.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Anchorage are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Anchorage is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay in Anchorage is Thursday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange the results to display prices in ascending order, allowing you to easily find the most affordable hotels. Additionally, you have the option to narrow your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Anchorage hotel reservations with flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions in Anchorage
Anchorage offers a perfect blend of adventure and culture, making it an ideal vacation destination. Visitors can explore urban parks, history museums, and historic buildings while enjoying scenic outdoor activities. With a variety of attractions, including the Anchorage Museum, there's something for everyone—families, outdoor enthusiasts, and culture seekers alike. Experience the charm of Anchorage and make unforgettable memories in this beautiful Alaskan city.
- Prince William Sound: Experience breathtaking views of glaciers and pristine waters in Prince William Sound. This stunning bay offers opportunities for kayaking, wildlife viewing, and relaxing on the beach, allowing you to immerse yourself in Alaska's natural beauty.
- Anchorage Museum: Delve into Alaskan culture and history at the Anchorage Museum. Featuring a diverse collection of art and artifacts, the museum showcases the rich heritage of the region, providing insightful exhibits that reflect the spirit of the North.
- Chugach State Park: Explore the vast wilderness of Chugach State Park, where adventure awaits. With numerous hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and abundant wildlife, this national park is ideal for those seeking outdoor adventures and stunning landscapes.
Best time to go to Anchorage
The best time to visit Anchorage is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Anchorage
Flying into ANChorage, Alaska, is easy with two major airports nearby. Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) is located 6km from the city and offers convenient hotels like the 4-star Hotel Captain Cook and the 3.5-star Hilton Anchorage. Merrill Field (MRI) is 3km away, with good options like the Sheraton Anchorage and the Arctic Fox Inn, both rated 3.5 stars. For those considering Kenai Municipal Airport (ENA), located 103km from Anchorage, the Alaska SeaScape Lodge and Kenai River Lodge are great choices. Transportation services are readily available from these hotels to their respective airports, making travel hassle-free.