There's no better way to get a grasp of Alaska’s history—or really, its many histories— than by visiting the Anchorage Museum. It's the state's largest museum, which explores Native and state history, accented with a lot of art. Highlights include The Smithsonian Arctic Studies Center, with more than 600 native Alaskan objects, and the Imaginarium Discover Center, complete with marine touch-tank and planetarium and more. Don't miss Sydney Laurence's classic painting of Mount McKinley. Combine a visit here with a walk through the Alaska Native Heritage Center—a free shuttle runs between the two facilities.
Anchorage Museum Audio Guide
Video, audio and rare artifacts converge to create an unforgettable overview of Alaska Native culture. Marvel at 600 Alaska Native objects on loan from the Smithsonian Institution, including a Tlingit warrior’s helmet, Inupiaq whale hunting tools, and a hand-sewn Yup’ik parka made from 93 ground squirrels. Hear Alaska Native languages and see glimpses of contemporary life.