Anchorage is a top North American city, not only in a literal geographic sense. Named an All-American City for four years, the city is a prosperous metropolis amidst stunning natural wonders. Surrounded by six mountain ranges and blessed with a maritime climate milder than the Alaskan stereotype, Anchorage buzzes with outdoor adventures, shopping, dining and open-air festivals.

SLEEP

Brooks Lodge is accessible only by float plane. While the fishing lodge is best known for its abundant rainbow trout and Arctic grayling, guests can also take a day trip to the nearby Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, the site of the 1912 eruption of the Novarupta Volcano. Grizzly bears like to fish for salmon in the nearby Brooks River.

Nestled amongst an unblemished mountain valley covered with massive spruce trees, Hotel Alyeska impresses visitors on first sight. The interior features spectacular cherry wood, a saltwater swimming pool and cathedral ceiling, while windows by the whirlpool provide breathtaking views of the mountain. Stop in after some world-class skiing on Mount Alyeska at one of six restaurants, including The Seven Glaciers, which is located 2,300 feet above the lobby and accessible by tram.

EAT

For hearty, authentic Alaskan fare, stop in for dinner at Southside Bistro. The downtown eatery serves fresh Alaskan seafood as well as generous servings of beef and lamb. A hardwood brick oven bakes flatbreads and wild pizzas, with interesting hand-painted designs on the desserts. The wine list consists of over a hundred American wines.

With fifty beers on tap, Humpy’s Great Alaskan Alehouse is lively all week. On Thursdays through Saturdays, local live bands play. Try the signature halibut tacos, or one of the menu’s fabulous appetizers, including a delicious hot crab dip and a smoked salmon platter.

PLAY

Located at the Chef’s Inn, Blues Central is an Anchorage favorite for blues music and beers on tap. Locals and visitors pack the 100-seat venue on weekends to see local and out-of-town blues acts perform. In June, the bar hosts a popular blues festival, believed by many to be the best music festival in Alaska.

F Street Station is a big hit with local pilots, who enjoy lighter fare of fried calamari and Caesar salad, or more substantial offerings like the burgers and fries. Daily specials range from fresh halibut to pasta primavera. F Street Station offers a full bar and is popular with the local crowd.

Anchorage’s Saturday and Sunday Markets operate at the parking lot at 3rd Avenue and E Street.

SHOP

Around 300 vendors offer crafts made in Alaska, Native items and delicious food at the Anchorage Saturday and Sunday Markets. The outdoor markets run from May to mid-September. At Northway Mall in East Anchorage, a somewhat smaller market offers local produce and crafts in July through August on Wednesdays.

Laura Wright Alaskan Parkys sells Native-style parkas, a.k.a. parkys. Customers can choose from ready-made creations or have one custom-made as a souvenir of their trip to Alaska.

DO/SEE

History buffs can learn about the Alaska gold rush while panning for real gold. Indian Valley Mine teaches visitors the techniques of gold panning with gold guaranteed in every one of their buckets that range from $5.00 to $100.00. Guides show visitors how to separate the sand, rocks and dirt from the gold using the same methods of the pioneers.

SECRETS/FINDS

While the summer is the assumed time to visit Anchorage, the Christmas season is worth a trip. Thousands of lights decorate downtown Anchorage and several cultural events are held throughout the city. In November, the Alaskan Christmas Bazaar showcases Alaskan artists and vendors selling locally-made art, crafts and holiday decorations. The event features live music and a food court.

The summer Music in the Park series is a favorite among both visitors and residents with its family-friendly, accessible live acts. Local musical acts perform downtown at Peratrovich Park every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at noon. Performances often feature the 31-piece United States Air Force Band of the Pacific, stationed nearby at Elmendorf Air Force Base.

As we enjoy the last of blissful sunny days, cookouts, and playing in the sand, we want you to share a photo of your Favorite Beach Vacation with us. You might win a free $250 (USD) Visa gift card which you can use for any upcoming travel plans you might have. Click here to learn how to enter.

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All images via anchorage.net