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Located on the southern coast of Alaska, Anchorage boasts not only the highest population but also a multitude of activities to experience. For those of you looking for something different and more challenging than the typical sit-on-the-beach vacation, Anchorage is the place for you. This helpful guide will give you the top ten things you should do while in Anchorage.
Things To Do In Anchorage
The Northern Lights
Also referred to as the Aurora Borealis, this spectacular phenomenon occurs many miles above the earth’s surface and appears in rippling colours of green, red, blue, and purple. They can be slightly irregular, not as easily at some times, with March being the best month for viewing. It may take a few days, but it will be worth the wait.
Snow Sports
Anchorage is home to world-class resorts featuring top-notch ski trails. Many award-winning skiers compete in races taking place on Anchorage’s snow-filled mountains and have even trained for the Olympics there. Snowboarding enthusiasts also love Anchorage for the many resorts and trails.
Rafting
Anchorage is also home to some of the world’s best river rafting. You can enjoy laid-back and scenic or multi-day undertakings ranging from Class I to Class IV. You can also choose to kayak in the rivers or canoe in the lakes.
Fishing
Check out one of Anchorage’s 28 stocked lakes for ice fishing in the wintertime. There are many guides that will outfit you with the attire and equipment you will need. Or you can take a charter boat in the warmer months and try your luck with salmon, rainbow trout, and halibut. Anchorage holds the record for the world’s largest sport caught halibut.
Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race
Begun during the gold rush era as a supply route to mining camps, this much-loved tradition occurs every year in March. It begins in Anchorage and ends in Nome, Alaska, covering over 1000 miles. Attending the ceremonial start in Anchorage is a chance to witness something that is a large part of Alaska’s history.
Alaska Zoo
The Alaska Zoo (formerly The Alaska Children’s Zoo) opened to the public in August of 1969. The zoo’s story of origin is very uniquely Alaskan. This is the perfect place to see all of Alaska’s native animals all in one place. Here you’ll find brown and polar bears, fox, seals, birds, otters, moose, snow leopards, and many, many more.
Anchorage Fur Rendezvous
This outrageous winter festival is one of the largest in North America. Expect to see fireworks, costumes, contests, dancing, and games for everyone to enjoy.
Whale Watching
The best bet to spot whales is a charter boat tour. You can expect to see orca, grey, and humpback whales.
Alaska Native Heritage Center
A visit to this centre gives you another way to experience a part of Alaska’s rich history. Through workshops, storytelling, indoor and outdoor exhibits, and demonstrations including song and dance, you will be transported to the past and discover the amazing cultural diversity that makes up Alaska.
Anchorage Museum of History and Art
This is another wonderful place to expand your mind and learn more about Alaska’s unique history and culture. The Anchorage Museum sits on the traditional homeland of the Eklutna Dena’ina. The museum is committed to recognizing and honouring the land, culture and language of the Dena’ina people.
Final thoughts
These are the top ten things to do in Anchorage that every visitor should explore, but there are many more than this. Anchorage is a place where you can learn a lot and never get bored.
