If you're looking for the best way to spend the day in Anchorage, this guide is for you. From local bites to shops and sights, here's a list of our top picks for spending the day in Alaska's largest city.
LessStart your day at Snow City Café, a downtown hotspot famous for its home-style breakfast classics. Grab a seat and admire the local artwork adorning the walls, then find out why this cozy eatery is consistently voted “Best Breakfast” by Anchorage locals. Dig into a savory eggs benedict served over Alaskan king crab cakes, or go for the stuffed French toast—a fan favorite.
Head over to Moose’s Tooth Pub & Pizzeria for innovative pizzas and craft beers brewed by their sister company. The casual spot is a local legend for eclectic flavors like the Spicy Thai Chicken, Avalanche, and Call of the Wild. If you’re a fan of mushroom pizza, don’t miss The Forager—it’s got three types of mushrooms with roasted garlic, truffle oil, and goat cheese.
Grab lunch at Glacier BrewHouse in the heart of downtown Anchorage for mountain lodge vibes, fresh seafood, and wood-fired pizza. Try the grilled salmon BLT or the Nordic Heat pizza topped with Alaskan reindeer sausage, mushrooms, and caramelized onions. Pair your meal with a house-brewed ale, or order a beer flight to try them all.
For dinner, enjoy some of the best Alaskan seafood in town at Simon & Seafort’s. Embrace the upscale-casual gem’s striking views of Cook Inlet and the surrounding mountains. Start with a plate of crispy calamari or coconut shrimp, then savor the crab-stuffed halibut or almond-crusted sea scallops. Looking to splurge? Don’t miss the golden king crab legs.
Head to the Anchorage Museum, the biggest museum in the state, to discover Indigenous art, interactive science displays, and footage of life in Alaska. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Arctic in the “Art of the North” gallery, then learn the story of the state’s diverse cultures and rich history in the “Alaska Exhibition.” Before you leave, swing by the museum store to pick up one-of-a-kind crafts and souvenirs.
A visit to the Alaska Native Heritage Center is an absolute must. Connect with the local Indigenous cultures through live dance performances, storytelling, and hands-on workshops. Stroll through authentic village exhibits and participate in crafting sessions led by native artisans. Check out artifacts like native clothing, masks, and tools in the Hall of Cultures.
Make your way to Williwaw Social for the ultimate nightcap in a multi-level nightlife hub. Soak up panoramic views from the rooftop bar, or unwind in the speakeasy-style lounge downstairs. Sip housemade creations like the Arctic Orange or Bear Royale, or opt for an equally tasty mocktail like the Boom Boom. Hang out in the upstairs loft for DJ sets and arcade games like skee ball.
Take on Flattop Mountain, Anchorage’s most-climbed mountain, for incredible panoramic views of the city. Choose a moderate loop hike or challenge yourself to a steep climb to the summit. On a clear day, you’ll be rewarded with sensational views of Denali, Cook Inlet and the Chugach Mountains. These trails are known for frequent wildlife sightings, so keep an eye out for moose and eagles along the way.
Head to Potter Marsh for a wildlife tour through peaceful wetlands. A haven for nature lovers and birdwatchers, the marsh is home to a diverse array of migratory birds and even moose occasionally. Wander along the boardwalks to spot sandhill cranes and ducks set against the dramatic backdrop of the Alaskan wilderness.
Don’t want the fun to end? Grab drinks at 49th State Brewing, a must-visit for any first-timer. Relax in the lively brewpub, or embrace epic views of the Cook Inlet from the rooftop patio. Sip on signature brews like Seward’s Folly or Most Coast Pilsner, or try a Rooftop Mai Tai by the fire pits.