Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city, has a population of about 300,000 but still feels easy to navigate. Whether you’re passing through on your way to the airport, beginning your Alaskan adventure, or just have a short window of time to explore, there are plenty of things to see and do within a few hours.
Getting Around the City
Anchorage is not especially walkable beyond its downtown core, so having a car makes exploring much easier. Rideshare services and taxis are readily available, and if you’d prefer a more active option, you can rent a bike from several shops downtown. The city has a well-connected trail system, including the famous Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, which stretches for 11 miles along the inlet.
Picking Up Souvenirs
If you want to bring home a piece of Alaska, look for items marked with the “Made in Alaska” sticker to ensure authenticity. Downtown Anchorage is full of locally owned shops selling everything from traditional ulu knives to musk ox wool products. In the summer, the Saturday Market is a must-visit for handmade goods, fresh food, and a lively atmosphere.
Things to Do With Just a Few Hours
If You Have 1–2 Hours
- Explore Downtown Shops: Browse local art, gifts, and Alaskan-made products between 4th and 6th Avenue.
- Westchester Lagoon and the Coastal Trail: A quick walk here offers peaceful views, a playground for kids, and direct access to the scenic trail.
- Watch Floatplanes at Lake Hood: Known as the busiest seaplane base in the world, this is a fun stop to see planes taking off every few minutes.
- Alaska Aviation Museum: Located near Lake Hood, this museum highlights Alaska’s aviation history with restored aircraft and exhibits.
- Point Woronzof: Just minutes from the airport, this viewpoint offers sweeping views of Cook Inlet and Anchorage’s skyline.
If You Have 2–3 Hours
- Tony Knowles Coastal Trail: Walk or cycle along part of this popular trail, where you might spot bald eagles or even moose.
- Kincaid Park: Covering over 1,400 acres, this park is perfect for hiking, wildlife viewing, and enjoying coastal scenery.
- Anchorage Museum: A mix of art, history, and science exhibits makes this an engaging stop for both adults and kids.
If You Have 3–4 Hours
- Alaska Zoo: Located on the city’s hillside, this zoo focuses on animals native to Alaska and beyond, with naturalistic wooded enclosures.
- Hike Flattop Mountain: A short but challenging hike with more than 1,500 feet of elevation gain rewards you with panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.
- Beluga Point Drive: A quick drive south along Turnagain Arm reveals dramatic views and, in certain seasons, chances to spot whales.
If You Have 4–5 Hours
- Day Trip to Girdwood: About an hour south of Anchorage, this mountain town offers waterfalls, breweries, and incredible scenery.
- Eagle River Nature Center: Thirty-five minutes north of the city, this area has trails ranging from short boardwalks to longer loops, all framed by mountains and rivers.
- Eklutna Lake: A glacier-fed lake with trails, kayaking, and wide-open views, just under an hour from Anchorage.
Final Thoughts
Anchorage is more than just a gateway to Alaska’s wilderness—it’s a destination full of accessible outdoor beauty, cultural highlights, and local charm. Even with only a few hours, you can experience a taste of what makes this city so unique, from floatplanes skimming the water to trails that stretch toward snowcapped peaks.
