Minimum Stay

1 to 2 days, though there’s plenty to explore if you want to stay longer. Many visitors to Anchorage choose not to spend much time here, using the city as a launching pad. However, there is plenty to do if you spend more time.

Guided Tours

Trolley Tour (1 hour)
Flightseeing tours (1 – 3 hours)
Brewery tour (4+ hours)
Bike tours (half to full day)
Escape room (1.5 hrs)
Photography Tours (4+ hours)
Fly-out fishing charters (full day)
Fly-out bear viewing tours (full day)
ATV tours (half to full day)
Rafting (full day)
Day cruises in Seward or Whittier with transportation from Anchorage (full day)

Self-Guided Recommendations

Anchorage Museum. Art and Alaskan history just a short walk from downtown.
Alaska Native Heritage Center. Native history and life-size replicas of native dwellings (shuttle available from downtown).
Walk along the coastal trail, easily accessed from downtown Anchorage – always abuzz with walkers, joggers, and bikers.
Ship Creek, near the railroad station; go fishing or to watch others catch fish from a viewing deck.
Saturday/Sunday market, on Dimond, for local food, crafts, and more.
Alaska Zoo; there’s a free shuttle from downtown.
Earthquake Park to learn about the 1964 earthquake.
Hike trails in Anchorage’s backyard, like the popular Flat Top trail.
Take the train on a 1-day tour to Seward, Whittier, Talkeetna, Grandview, or Spencer Glacier.
Rent a car and explore Greater Anchorage
Drive along the scenic Turnagain Arm to the quaint town of Girdwood (about 50 minutes south of Anchorage), stopping along the way to take photos. In Girdwood, take the tram to the top of Mt. Alyeska, explore trails, or visit local artist shops. Grab lunch and make your way back to Anchorage for the evening.
Drive north to Eagle River and visit the nature center. Join one of the guided naturalist hikes or explore the trails on your own.
Head south to Seward or north to Talkeetna; each is about 2 hours each way.
See our Anchorage attractions page for more suggestions.

Anchorage as a home base

Take the train or motorcoach—or drive yourself—to nearby areas like Portage Glacier, Girdwood, Talkeetna, or Whittier, returning to Anchorage to explore in a different direction.