Local Attractions

Anchorage’s unique historical background of Native Alaskan, Russian and pioneer culture makes for a rich and varied array of museums, historical sites, festivals, and visitor attractions.  

Learn about the life and skills of Native Alaskans at the Alaska Native Heritage Center; view Alaskan life from the perspective of art, history and science at the Anchorage Museum; have a hands-on science experience at the Imaginarium; marvel at the beauty of the Alaska Botanical Garden and walk the nature trails; learn about the natural history of Anchorage and Alaska at the Alaska Museum of Natural History; and enjoy displays at museums of aviation, the fire department, the Russian Orthodox church, and more!

Enjoy hiking and wildlife viewing on the miles of trails within the city of Anchorage and in nearby Chugach State Park and Denali National Park and Reserve.  Plan your own excursion or contact one of the many Anchorage area tour guides and let them show you the wonders of Anchorage area wildlife, mountains, glaciers, rivers, lakes and ocean.

And of course, no fall, winter, or spring trip to Anchorage would be complete without viewing the spectacular Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights.  Plan to stay at least a few days as the best views of the Aurora depend on the weather.  Find information on the Aurora and forecasts for viewing at the Geophysical Institute’s website.  Many Anchorage hotels offer a Northern Lights wake up call for visitors wishing to see the Aurora.