City centre Anchorage blends modern business with authentic Alaska Native culture. Glass towers reflect the Chugach Mountains while bronze sculptures of sleigh dogs line the pavements. The Saturday Market buzzes with vendors selling smoked salmon and handwoven baskets. The compact 10-block core makes exploring on foot easy between museums and shops. Visit the Alaska Native Heritage Centre or enjoy dining options from food trucks to fine restaurants. Mountain views frame every vista while public art showcases colourful murals depicting northern lights.
Situated between city centre Anchorage and the international airport, Spenard offers a glimpse into authentic Alaskan life. Lake Hood Seaplane Base brings constant activity as the world's busiest floatplane hub. This working-class area balances practical strip malls with ethnic eateries and vintage shops. The area boasts mountain views peeking between mid-century buildings and weathered signage. Budget-friendly motels and restaurants serve hearty portions at prices well below city centre rates. Aviation enthusiasts will appreciate watching water takeoffs while enjoying the distinctive mix of aircraft sounds and cooking aromas.
Midtown Anchorage serves as the city's bustling commercial heart with sleek office towers and business hotels. Mountain views frame modern buildings along wide boulevards lined with familiar chain establishments. The Z.J. Loussac Library and Wells Fargo Alaska Heritage Museum offer cultural breaks between meetings. This strategic location connects major highways with easy access to both city centre and the airport. Business travellers appreciate the practical amenities and mid-range dining options throughout the area. Though lacking tourist attractions, the district's efficiency makes it an ideal base for exploring greater Anchorage.
Turnagain offers a peaceful coastal retreat where residential charm meets Alaskan wilderness just minutes from city centre Anchorage. The area borders Cook Inlet with scenic views along the 11-mile Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. Wildlife enthusiasts might spot moose while history buffs can explore Earthquake Park. The area's large homes with spruce-lined streets create a genuine local atmosphere away from tourist crowds. Westchester Lagoon and Lyn Ary Park provide beautiful green spaces for outdoor recreation. On clear days, you'll catch breathtaking views of Denali across the water.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Anchorage
Alyeska Ski Resort
9.0/10 (448 reviews)
Alyeska Resort offers Alaska's premier skiing with 1,610 acres of terrain and North America's longest double black diamond run. Ride the aerial tram for breathtaking views of the Chugach Mountains and Turnagain Arm.
Alaska Native Heritage Center
9.0/10 (104 reviews)
This immersive centre showcases Alaska's 11 Indigenous cultures through authentic art and village sites. Watch native dance performances while exploring traditional dwellings around Lake Tiulana.
Anchorage Museum
9.0/10 (416 reviews)
Alaska's largest museum showcases Smithsonian-loaned Native artefacts alongside contemporary Alaskan art. Explore the planetarium and interactive Discovery Centre while discovering the state's rich cultural tapestry.
Photo by Arup Paul
Open Photo by Arup Paul
Alaska Zoo
8.2/10 (689 reviews)
The Alaska Zoo displays Arctic and sub-Arctic wildlife across a natural boreal forest setting. Wander gravel trails for intimate views of polar bears, snow leopards, and native Alaskan species in thoughtful habitats.
Chugach State Park
9.2/10 (369 reviews)
Alaska's wilderness sanctuary spans 495,000 acres with alpine tundra, glaciers, and boreal forests near Anchorage. Hike to Glen Alps Overlook or spot moose, bears, and Dall sheep along diverse trails.
Photo by State of Alaska/Chris McLennan
Open Photo by State of Alaska/Chris McLennan
Prince William Sound
9.4/10 (339 reviews)
Prince William Sound dazzles with tidewater glaciers calving into the sea. Cruise through its protected waters for close encounters with humpback whales, orcas, and playful sea otters in their pristine habitat.
William A. Egan Civic and Convention Center
8.2/10 (216 reviews)
Named after Alaska's first governor, this city centre Anchorage venue hosts conventions, concerts, and community events. The glass-enclosed lobby features impressive Alaskan artwork and live Ficus trees.
Lake Hood Harbor
8.8/10 (244 reviews)
Watch floatplanes dance across the world's busiest seaplane base, with up to 600 daily flights in summer. Stroll the 4-mile lakeside path for prime aircraft viewing and occasional moose sightings.
What to do in Anchorage
Hike Matanuska Glacier w/Alaska Local Honey, Wine Tasting
"I'm pretty sure this place represents itself as a 4- or 5-star property, but it felt tired and a little worn (like an older ski resort). The grounds of the property were excellent, and the pool would have been nice to use, but was completely full in the evening. We had a reservation, but had no idea if that mattered? The little cafe where we got our coffee (which was good) served us the most inedible oatmeal we've had in years."
"We chose Motel 6 out of convenience to the airport for an early morning flight. The walls and floors were so thin you could hear every sound in the other rooms including someone coming in to the room above us at 1 a.m. and a screaming toddler at 4 a.m. who screamed and cried for two hours. Needless to say, we did not get much sleep. Not sure there is anything you can do to improve the quietness in the rooms, sadly."
"Avoid this place at all costs!!! We arrived to find a lobby full of pissed off people and a front desk staff who seemed not to care. The 2 front desk clerks we dealt with seemed totally inept, uncaring and extremely curt. We called for directions and were told to use Google. I informed them Google wasn’t tracking and asked for directions and a landmark and the staff couldn’t or wouldn’t provide either. Same thing when I asked for directions to the on site vending machines. No elevator (I...
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
You'll find cheap prices on Expedia for your Anchorage getaway. However, a range of factors like the length of stay, hotel choice and season will determine how much your holiday to Anchorage costs.
What are the cheapest months to go to Anchorage?
January, February and November are the best times to look for cheap Anchorage holiday packages. Choosing to travel in quieter months means you can usually find better prices on accommodation and flights.
How many days is enough for Anchorage?
Anchorage holidays come in various shapes and sizes, but to really sink your teeth into this destination, we'd suggest 2 days is about right. With this timeframe, you can fit in top sights like Point Woronzof Park and Ship Creek Viewing Platform as well as lesser-known spots. Don't skip neighbourhoods such as Midtown Anchorage and Downtown Anchorage either. If you plan wisely, you can even take a day trip outside of Anchorage too.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Anchorage?
It's no wonder an Anchorage holiday is on the must-do list of many travellers. Top attractions like Anchorage 5th Avenue Mall are just the beginning of things to see and do here.
How to find the best Anchorage package deals?
Use Expedia's filter tool to help you find some fabulous Anchorage package deals. When you start your search, simply set your maximum budget and then order the results by "Price: low to high." If you're looking to save, plan your break for midweek, or search for Anchorage package deals in the off-peak season. Play around with your travel dates and you may land even better discounts. As a rule of thumb, it's typically best to book your holiday package well in advance.
Is it cheaper to book an Anchorage holiday as a package?
Expedia holiday packages are designed to help you keep more money in your pocket. Bundle your hotel, car rental and flight into one great-value price and enjoy significant savings. You'll usually get a better deal than booking each component individually. And you'll still have the flexibility to create a customised Anchorage holiday by choosing your favourite airline, accommodation type and car class.
When to book a holiday package to Anchorage?
If you're planning a spur-of-the-moment Anchorage adventure, check out our last-minute deals that can be booked up to a week before you take off. Prefer not to wait until the last minute? You can score incredible deals on your hotels and flights by booking well in advance.
How to plan a trip to Anchorage?
Choose the best time to travel: Your schedule, favourite season and the type of weather you like can all influence your decision on when to go to Anchorage.
Budget wisely: As well as the price of your stay, you'll need to factor in other expenses. These include flights, transportation and food. Also, put aside some extra funds for unexpected costs that may crop up during your trip to Anchorage.
Determine how many days away: Start by compiling a list of the attractions you want to get to in Anchorage. Then, estimate how long you'll need at each, as well as any travel time.
Bundle your accommodation and airfare: Once you've nailed down your trip dates and duration, book the ideal Anchorage holiday package for you.
Anchorage offers a thrilling blend of adventure and stunning scenery, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Popular activities include skiing at local ski fields and exploring recreational areas. Visitors can indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments, tackle scenic hiking trails, and partake in fun adventures. Additionally, Anchorage hosts various weekend events and serves as a picturesque wedding venue, ensuring a memorable experience for all who visit.
Shopping
In Anchorage, you can shop at the Anchorage 5th Avenue Mall, which offers a vibrant mix of shops and entertainment. Don't miss the Anchorage Market and Festival for unique local goods, and the Dimond Center for a family-friendly shopping experience.
Recreation
Muldoon Park offers serene walking trails and tranquil spots for relaxation amidst nature. For a family-friendly experience, Bear and Raven Adventure Theater provides engaging films in a charming setting, while Anchorage Football Stadium showcases exhilarating live sports events, perfect for an energetic outing.
Adventure
Explore the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail in Anchorage, where you can hike amidst stunning coastal scenery and embrace the adventurous vibes of the great outdoors. For family fun, visit H2Oasis Indoor Waterpark, offering thrilling water slides and entertainment. In winter, hit the slopes at Alyeska Ski Resort for exhilarating skiing adventures.
Nightlife
The Rooftop offers a vibrant nightlife experience in Anchorage, combining romance with lively entertainment vibes. Enjoy a selection of drinks while soaking in the atmosphere, perfect for a laid-back evening or a fun night out with friends.
Find the best attractions in Anchorage
Anchorage offers an exciting blend of adventure and scenic beauty, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Explore urban parks, modern colleges, and the picturesque bay, making it a perfect destination for a city escape. Don't miss the chance to visit Anchorage itself, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and experience the unique charm of this Alaskan gem.
Chugach State Park: Experience breathtaking vistas and a plethora of outdoor activities in this expansive park. Ideal for hiking, biking, and wildlife watching, Chugach State Park offers a unique adventure amidst stunning natural beauty right on the outskirts of Anchorage.
William A. Egan Civic and Convention Center: This modern conference venue hosts a variety of events, from business meetings to cultural exhibitions. Its versatile spaces and central location make it a hub for networking and community engagement in Anchorage.
Alaska Native Heritage Center: Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Alaska’s Indigenous peoples. Through exhibits, storytelling, and traditional performances, the centre offers an enlightening experience that celebrates the unique traditions and history of Alaska Native cultures.
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 moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Anchorage
Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically January to February and November) for more affordable package holidays to Anchorage.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.