The Flattop Mountain is a popular hiking trail in Anchorage. The trail takes you to a mountaintop where you can see the whole city and ocean. The hike is moderately challenging, being 3 miles and 1500ft in elevation. If hiking isn't your thing, the parking lot has a short 5 minute trail to a lookout point where you can also see the city and ocean. For catching the sunset, check the weather app for the time.
Just 50 minutes from Anchorage, there is a large, beautiful lake that is fed by a glacier, creating a fresh turquoise blue color. There is a flat trail around the lake for a nice summer walk. If you're into kayaking, you can reserve a session online.
1 hour from Anchorage, there is another massive lake being fed by a glacier. You can park at the parking lot and admire the view from the shore. Or, you can book a 1 hr cruise online for $60. The ship will take you up close to the glacier. You won't be able to touch it, but you can hear the ice crack. If you're lucky, you'll get to see chunks crash into the water. The address above takes you to the parking lot and visitor center. If you book a cruise, check the website for a different address about 5 minutes drive away.
Departing from Whittier, which is about 70 minutes from Anchorage, enjoy a 4hr cruise that takes you to see 10 glaciers. Watch for adorable sea otters, harbor seals, Steller sea lions, Dall’s porpoise, whales, mountain goats, black bears and migratory birds. This cruise is on the higher pricepoint, being about $200. There are two different cruises available. Check their website for more information.
Just 50 minutes from Anchorage, there is a ski resort. Aerial tram tickets that take you to the top can be purchased online.
1 hour from Anchorage (10 minutes past Alyeska Ski Resort). The center offers a peaceful and scenic setting where guests can enjoy 200 acres of animal enclosures by touring a scenic 1.5-mile loop.
Just 20 minutes from Anchorage (on the way to/from Alyeska), stop by a popular vantage point for taking photos. The sunset is beautiful from here as well.
Enjoy 18 holes of disc golf in one of the biggest nature parks in Anchorage. Download a map and don't get lost! Occasional black bear and moose sightings, but I'm still alive aren't I? Let me know if you're interested and I can ask friends to bring discs.
An Alaskan coffee chain that roasts their own beans. Excellent coffee. Alaskans take pride in Kaladi Brother's, so stop by one of the multiple locations in Anchorage.
Cafe with a good atmosphere and limited menu options. However, their drinks are fantastic. Sophie's favorite is their housemade earl grey vanilla syrup iced latte.
Delicious ice cream place that uses honey instead of sugar.
Locally owned drive-up dessert shop that recently opened, specializing in waffle bread ice cream. Personally have not had the opportunity to go there yet, but has great reviews and my friends like it.
Brunch spot in downtown. Hashbrowns are amazing. They close at 3pm so get there earlier. They do get busy and don't take reservations, so beat the rush!
The number one pizza place in Anchorage. Diablo Breadsticks is a must. Other popular dishes: Chicken wings and Sesame Soy Salad. Popular pizza flavors: Amazing Apricot, Spicy Thai, Chipotle Steak, Santa's Little Helper. They get very busy for dinner so either go for lunch or early dinner.
Popular food truck that serves a delicious variety of hotdogs using Alaskan Reindeer Sausages. Their fries are also really good.
A bit more on the pricier side, but has a great selection of food and drinks. Offers fresh alaskan seafood and crab.
Great brunch/lunch spot. Great dinner spot. The menu changes for dinner.
If you're interested in something more chill and free, but still taking in the beauty and freedom of Alaska, we are planning to arrange outdoor activities: spikeball, sand volleyball, spray paint, etc. Let us know if you want to join!