South Central Alaska Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Seward showing forests, a river or creek and mountains
Chugach State Park showing mountains, a gorge or canyon and a river or creek
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve featuring snow and mountains
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve featuring interior views
Anchorage which includes modern architecture

As the most populated region in the state, Southcentral Alaska combines the majesty and excitement of the wilderness with charming, accessible cities.

Southcentral Alaska is a gateway to all of the thrills and wonder of America’s last frontier. Creaking, ancient glaciers, craggy peaks and forested rivers are just a short journey away from some of the state’s liveliest cities. Enjoy all the amenities of modern Alaska and visit a wide array of cultural attractions on the coast before venturing into the enticing wilderness that lies beyond the coast.

The Southcentral region is one of the best places in Alaska to learn about the state’s indigenous communities. Explore Anchorage, the largest city in the state, and visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center. Join one of the guided tours of the exhibits and villages for expert insight into the history of the region.

Linger in Anchorage to discover more of the city’s attractions. The Anchorage Museum and the Alaska Aviation Heritage Museum examine different aspects of the state’s history. Take your family to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and the Alaska Zoo, where visitors of all ages can meet the region’s beautiful wildlife.

Discover the towns scattered along the Kenai Peninsula, which are known for their laid-back and creative atmospheres. Mingle with artists in Girdwood and browse the galleries of Homer and Old Town Kenai.

Head into the Wrangell Mountains around the Copper River Valley or hike into Chugach National Forest for wilderness escapes on your doorstep. Those that prefer to explore from the water can join kayaking or white-water rafting expeditions along the Kenai, Matanuska and Sixmile Rivers.

Fly into Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport then choose one of many different ways to travel around Southcentral Alaska. Water taxis skim around the coastline while the Alaska Railroad promises hours of uninterrupted scenery.

Unlike Far North Alaska, summers in Southcentral can have long stretches of hot weather, making it a perfect time to explore the region. The temperature in winter drops well below freezing, but the season offers the chance to ski on the Kenai Peninsula and maybe even see the northern lights.

Where to stay in South Central Alaska

Anchorage featuring marine life and a river or creek

Downtown Anchorage

4/5(38 area reviews)

Downtown Anchorage is known for its popular shops, and you can see some sights area like Anchorage Historic City Hall and Log Cabin Visitor Information Center.

Downtown Anchorage
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Alyeska

If you're spending some time in Alyeska, Girdwood Town Square and Girdwood Park are top sights worth seeing.

Alyeska
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Midtown Anchorage

3.5/5(4 area reviews)

Travellers come to Midtown Anchorage for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Z.J. Loussac Library - Main Branch and Cinemark Century Anchorage 16 while you're in town.

Midtown Anchorage
Chugach State Park showing a river or creek

Hillside

While visiting Hillside, you might make a stop by sights like Alaska Zoo and Anchorage Golf Course.

Hillside
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University Area

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in University Area and surrounding area, you can visit Alaska Airlines Center and Nunaka Valley South Park.

University Area
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Taku - Campbell

While visiting Taku - Campbell, you might make a stop by sights like Dimond Center and Campbell Creek Greenbelt Park.

Taku - Campbell
Westmark Anchorage Hotel

Westmark Anchorage Hotel

3 out of 5
720 West 5th Avenue, Anchorage, AK
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Anchorage. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and a fitness center. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the ...
7/10 Good! (1,247 reviews)
"Awesome"

Reviewed on 23 Sept 2025

Westmark Anchorage Hotel
The Lakefront Anchorage

The Lakefront Anchorage

3.5 out of 5
4800 Spenard Road, Anchorage, AK
The price is AU$296 per night from 5 Oct to 6 Oct
AU$296
5 Oct - 6 Oct
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Anchorage. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 restaurants. Our guests praise the breakfast and the restaurant ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,906 reviews)
"Clean room, friendly staff, free shuttle to the airport if needed."

Reviewed on 1 Oct 2025

The Lakefront Anchorage
Puffin Inn of Anchorage

Puffin Inn of Anchorage

2 out of 5
4400 Spenard Rd, Anchorage, AK
Book a stay at this business-friendly motel in Anchorage. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
7.2/10 Good! (3,061 reviews)
"It is a get the job done stay. Clean, breakfast in the lobby, they'll pick you up at the airport, AC worked, quiet. But the location is on Spenard - notorious for homelessness. This location is far away from that and closer to the airport. Not a glamorous, high-end hotel, but they take care of the ..."

Reviewed on 30 Sept 2025

Puffin Inn of Anchorage
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.
Talkeetna Wilderness Lodge and Cabin Rentals

Talkeetna Wilderness Lodge and Cabin Rentals

3 out of 5
17351 E Michele Drive, Talkeetna, AK
Stay at this 3-star cabin in Talkeetna. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a garden. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (482 reviews)
"Good place to stay. I would recommend. Nice surroundings, friendly people, But a bit steep on price, when there is no arrangements for food or breakfast etc. otherwise excellent"

Reviewed on 30 Sept 2025

Talkeetna Wilderness Lodge and Cabin Rentals
Great North Lodging

Great North Lodging

3 out of 5
3130 Lark St, Anchorage, AK
Stay at this 3-star apartment in Anchorage. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Alaska Airlines Center and Goose Lake ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (9 reviews)
"I had an unplanned visit to Anchorage, an Emergency at Providence Medical Centre, I found this place and it was perfect for my needs. It was close to the hospital, there were food venues nearby. The property itself was situated in quite a quiet are. The studio that I staid in was very well equipped ..."

Reviewed on 9 Sept 2025

Great North Lodging
Colony Suites

Colony Suites

4 out of 5
380 S Colony Way, Palmer, AK
Stay at this 4-star apartment in Palmer. Enjoy free parking, laundry facilities, and balconies or patios. Popular attractions Colony House Museum and Palmer ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (97 reviews)
Great stay
"Great place. Very clean and convenient location in town."

Reviewed on 18 Sept 2025

Colony Suites
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.

Popular places to visit

Cities near South Central Alaska

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