Anchorage, the biggest city and main place to fly into to explore the largest portion of Alaska is, to be honest, not the most exciting place.
But there are things to do in Anchorage that will keep you entertained until you get out to other places like Denali National Park and the Kenai Peninsula.
Cycle The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail

The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is an 11 miles seaside bike trail that takes you along some of the waterfronts near Anchorage.
This was one of my favorite things to do in Anchorage when there. Every morning I would go out for a bike ride along the trail and then hit up some other trails nearby it.
If you’re short on time or would like to do it with other people you can go on an organized bike tour of the coastal trail.
Visit The Alaska Native Heritage Center

The Alaska Native Heritage Center is a very interesting place to visit for a cultural look at Alaska.
You can find out the history of the native people of Alaska here and get a good understanding of their culture and past.
Hike in Chugach State Park

Anchorage is blessed by being so close to nature and Chugach State Park is very close by giving easy access to mountains and hiking trails.
Escape the city and go hiking for the day!
Hiking near Anchorage is one of the best things to do in Anchorage.
Visit Anchorage Museum
For an overview of life and history in Alaska visit the Anchorage Museum.
They have great exhibits of the history, culture, and arts of Alaska as well as a planetarium.
Take a Scenic Flight

Ok, this one won’t come cheap if you’re traveling on a budget but if you can stretch the wallet then this would be an unmissable experience.
Take a small propellor plane flight from Anchorage out across the mountains of Denali National Park with its wild nature and glaciers for unprecedented views and also the possibility to land on a glacier as well.
Take a 1-Hour Trolley Bus Ride Around Anchorage
You can take a trolley bus ride around Anchorage for 1 hour where you will be guided to the historic and scenic parts of Anchorage and learn from the guide’s stories of the past.
Take a Ride on The Alaska Railroad

Take a historic ride on the rail line from Anchorage out to other parts of Alaska nearby and enjoy the great views as you relax onboard.
Train travel is the best!
See The Northern Lights (If There in Winter)

The northern lights are a natural phenonemon that should be seen at least once in life, and thankfully Anchorage is a great place to see them
The northern lights in Anchorage city itself will be good but it’s always better to get away from some of the cities light pollution and take a 1-hour drive away from the city into more remote areas to see them the best.
This is one of the best things to do in Anchorage in winter.
Take a Helicopter Ride and Go Dog Sledding

Yes, you can go dog sledding near Anchorage on a glacier! Better yet is that you can reach there by going on a helicopter from Anchorage and getting great views across the nearby national parks.
The helicopter will then land on a glacier where you will then go dog sledding for 1 hour.
Whale Watching Near Anchorage

Yes you can go and try watching whales from Anchorage!
The Kenai Fjords are a great place to try and see them as the area is known for its wildlife and natural beauty and you can take a boat tour out from Anchorage to the area.
Things To Do In Anchorage
Anchorage, like I said, is not the most exciting city but is perfectly situated for doing things nearby, as well as a bit in the city itself.
Find places to stay in Anchorage here.
For a great overall guide to the region check out the Moon Anchorage, Denali, and Kenai guide.
And a great guide to Alaska is the Lonely Planet Alaska.
I recommend using SafetyWing Travel Insurance for your trip, just in case, it’s best to be prepared.
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