Anchorage Alaska 2 Day Itinerary

Anchorage, Alaska 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Morning

  • 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM: Start your day with breakfast at The Flying Sourdough, a local favorite serving up delicious pastries and sandwiches.
  • 11:00 AM: Visit the Anchorage Museum to learn about Alaska’s rich history, art, and science.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM: Take a stroll along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and Cook Inlet.
  • 4:00 PM: Explore the Anchorage Market and Festival, a bustling marketplace featuring local vendors, food, and live music.

Evening

  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Simon & Seafort’s Saloon and Grill, serving up fresh seafood and steak in a lively atmosphere.
  • 9:00 PM: End your evening with a scenic drive to Flattop Mountain for panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.

Day 2

Morning

  • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Take a day trip to Portage Glacier, located about an hour southeast of Anchorage. Enjoy hiking, wildlife viewing, and stunning glacial scenery.
  • 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at the Portage Glacier Cafe, offering sandwiches, soups, and snacks.

Afternoon

  • 2:30 PM - 5:00 PM: Visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, a sanctuary for orphaned and injured wildlife. Get up close and personal with bears, moose, and more.
  • 6:00 PM: Return to Anchorage and explore the Spenard neighborhood, known for its eclectic shops, restaurants, and bars.

Evening

  • 8:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at The Glacier Brewhouse, a local brewery serving up tasty pub fare and craft beers.
  • 10:00 PM: End your evening with a relaxing stay at the Hotel Captain Cook, offering comfortable rooms and stunning views of Cook Inlet.

Where to Stay

  • Hotel Captain Cook: A luxurious hotel in downtown Anchorage, featuring comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and stunning views.
  • Anchorage Downtown Hotel: A budget-friendly option with clean rooms, free breakfast, and a convenient location.

Transportation

  • Rental Car: Rent a car to explore Anchorage and surrounding areas. Companies like Avis, Hertz, and Enterprise have locations at the airport.
  • Public Transportation: Use the People Mover bus system to get around Anchorage. Routes cover major attractions and neighborhoods.

Tips and Essentials

  • Pack layers: Anchorage’s weather can be unpredictable, so dress in layers for comfort.
  • Bring sunscreen: Even on cloudy days, the sun’s UV rays can be strong at high latitudes.
  • Respect wildlife: Keep a safe distance from wild animals, especially bears and moose.
  • Try local cuisine: Be adventurous and try Alaskan specialties like salmon, halibut, and reindeer sausage.

Other Things to Know

  • Summer hours: During the summer solstice (June 20-22), Anchorage experiences almost 24 hours of daylight. Plan your itinerary accordingly!
  • Northern Lights: If you’re visiting between September and April, keep an eye out for the stunning Northern Lights displays.
  • Outdoor activities: Anchorage offers endless opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and more. Research outdoor activities to suit your interests.

Enjoy your trip to Anchorage, Alaska!