Things To Do
Alaska Zoo
Since 1969, we have cared for orphaned and injured wildlife as the only zoo in Alaska. We are proud of how far we have come to care for wildlife in need and provide quality education and conservation programs. August of 2019 marked 50 years since the Alaska Zoo (then the Alaska Children's Zoo) opened its doors to its first animals and visitors. Free parking avaliable.
Anchorage Museum
The Anchorage Museum sits on the traditional homeland of the Eklutna Dena’ina. The museum is committed to recognizing and honoring the land, culture and language of the Dena’ina people. We recognize and respect the continuing connection, by Alaska Native people and all Indigenous people, to the land, waters and communities. Parking is avaliable on the street by meter or in parking garages.
Anchorage Railroad Depot
From day trips, to full on excursions. See glaciers, wildlife, national parks and more! The Alaska Railroad has packages upon packages to suit whatever your desire is to see. Take a trip north to Fairbanks and see Denali, or go south to Seward and take a cruise to see whales and glaciers. The train is never a disappointment.
Eagle River Nature Center
Friends of Eagle River Nature Center, Inc. (Friends) was formed in 1995 with the intent of operating the Eagle River Visitor Center for Chugach State Park. The Park's dwindling budget could no longer support the Center's year-round operation. From 1993-1995 the facility was closed most of the year and summer operation was limited. Park administrators awarded the non-profit a permit in 1996 and in 2005 extended the contract for another 25 years. The organization has revitalized natural history education in Chugach State Park; it has built new trails and public use facilities; and it has become a destination for visitors from around the world. Parking fee of $5 cash.
Independence Mine
Independence Mine State Historical Park is a huge, abandoned gold mine that sits at the top of Hatcher Pass, a photogenic alpine passage that cuts through the Talkeetna Mountains. The journey above the tree line and this intriguing 761-acre park make for one of the finest side trips in Alaska. We recommend the short hikes and/or viewing the historic buildings. A $5 parking fee is sometimes required.
Flattop Mountain
Explore this 3.3-mile loop trail near Anchorage, Alaska. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 27 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking and running, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash. -recommended by Brennyn Belay-
Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is a sanctuary dedicated to preserving Alaska’s wildlife through conservation, research, education and quality animal care. AWCC takes in injured and orphaned animals year-round and provides them with spacious enclosures and quality animal care. Most of the animals that arrive at the AWCC become permanent residents and will always have a home here. The Center maintains over 200 acres of spacious habitats for animals to feel at home and display their natural “wild” behavior. Visitors may see brown bears cooling off in the water, a bull moose strutting, wood bison roaming on pastures and more.
Alyeska Tram
Take a three to seven-minute scenic ride from the Hotel Alyeska to the top of Mt. Alyeska. At an elevation of 2,300 feet, witness frosty views of the Turnagain Arm, up to seven “hanging” glaciers and endless peaks deep into the Chugach Mountain range. The tram operates at a faster speed in the winter to get eager skiers on the slopes.
Alaska SeaLife Center
The Alaska SeaLife Center is the only facility in Alaska that combines a public aquarium with marine research, education, and wildlife response. While primarily dedicated to marine research and education, the nonprofit Center is the only permanent marine mammal rescue and rehabilitation facility in the state. Parking is available.
Biking and Walking
Having over 120+ paved and unpaved trails just inside Anchorage, biking and walking the trail system is common amongst residents. We invite you to explore our backyard by biking or walking some of our favorite trails. If you have any questions please let us know, we'd be happy to help you choose the right trail for you! *For those who are more adventurous, there are many mountain biking trails, as well as single tracks avaliable in and near town. Paved Trails 1. Tony Knowles Coastal Trail 2. Chester Creek Trail 3. Campbell Creek Trail 4. Lake Hood Seaplane Base Unpaved/Dirt Trails 1. Kincaid Park 2. Campbell Creek Science Center