Things To Do
Hatcher Pass scenic drive
(34 min drive from Palmer) Hatcher's Pass has a lot to offer: driving through the mountains, hiking on trails at every turn, and exploring old mining buildings. Very close to town, it is definitely worth a trip! (Image: Independence Mine in Hatcher's Pass)
Hike the Butte
(9 min drive from Palmer) While not the tallest mountain in the area by any stretch of the imagination, this hike never the less is worth it for the view at the top. From Knik Glacier in the far distance to the Butte community and farmlands below, with Pioneer Peak and Matanuska Peak front and center on display, its a good introduction to what Alaska is all about.
Matanuska Lake Trail System
(11 min drive from Palmer) Looking for an outdoor activity without a lot of upwards hiking? Try the Matanuska Lakes Trails. Lots of different route, all with good views of lakes, mountains, and flat glasslands.
Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
(1 hr 40 min drive from Palmer) Looking to see some of those big Alaska animals you always hear about? Don't want to drive around aimlessly hoping to come across something at random? Visit the Wildlife Conservation Center to see bears, muskox, moose, and more! Located on the Seward Highway, south of Anchorage, just outside of Girdwood.
Matanuska Brewery and Tap Room, Palmer
Local brewery with very good eats in downtown Palmer.
Palmer Alehouse
Pizza, burgers, and brews! Depending on the day you might even catch some live music on their outdoor stage.
Vagabond Blues Cafe
Local cafe with tons of tasty breakfast and lunch options: sandwiches and paninis plus daily soup and daily pasta salad options that are always delicious.
Talkeetna
(1 hr 35 min drive from Palmer) Take a scenic drive to this cute little rustic town. Take in the gift shops, restaurants, and bars. Good for a night away or an afternoon of adventure.
Girdwood
(1 hr 30 min drive from Palmer) Great little ski resort town with good eats and great walking trails. The tram ride up the mountain at Alyeska Resort is so worth it! If you are looking for a fancy retreat, look no further than the resort accomodations.
Seward
(3 hr drive from Palmer) South of Anchorge on the Kenai Peneinsula, the drive to Seward is considered one of the most scenic highways in the United States. Seward itself is a small coastal town with tons of cute shops, good restaurants, a Sea Life Center, numerous nearby hiking trails, and wildlife/glacier cruises. Good for a day trip or a quick overnight stay.
Anchorage
(47 min drive from Palmer) Of course, there is always Anchorage itself to explore. The largest city in Alaska, Anchorage is a good trip for restaurants, museums, downtown exploring, and walking and hiking trails.