Anchorage, Alaska, is a truly unique and breathtaking destination that should be on every traveler's bucket list. From its stunning natural beauty to its rich cultural heritage, there are countless reasons why you should visit Anchorage. Each season offers unique experiences, making it an ideal place for visitors all year round. 

Anchorage is surrounded by some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. The city is nestled between the Chugach Mountains and the Kenai Peninsula, making it the perfect base for exploring the great outdoors. Whether you're a hiker, a fisherman, or just someone who loves to take in the beauty of nature, Anchorage has something to offer. 

To help you plan your trip to Anchorage, we've written this guide on what activities you can do in Anchorage during each season.

Anchorage in The Summer

Summer is the best time of the year to visit Anchorage if you want to experience the long days (on June 21, Anchorage gets 22 hours of sunlight!) and warmer weather. The average high temperature during the summer months is in the mid-60s, making it perfect for hiking, fishing, and exploring the great outdoors. So, if you love nature, outdoor activities, and culture, Anchorage is a great place to visit during the summer. 

If you are going to be visiting Anchorage during the summer months, here are some activities you might want to do.

Hiking

Summer is the best time to explore the many hiking trails in Anchorage and the surrounding areas. To learn more about the best places to hike in Anchorage, we've written an article on the best hikes in the Anchorage area.

Check out Hiking Tours in Anchorage

Fishing

Salmon fishing is at its peak in the summer; visitors can go on a guided fishing trip or try their own luck. Several local spots, such as Ship Creek, Campbell Creek, and Bird Creek, are known for their large runs of King or Chinook salmon, which typically arrive in June and July; if visiting later in the summer, you will most likely encounter more silver or Coho salmon. The rainbow trout and arctic grayling are other fish you will come across when fishing in Anchorage. Before venturing out fishing, remember to get a fishing license. 

Kayaking and Rafting

Anchorage is ideal if you are looking for a one-of-a-kind kayaking or rafting experience. After all, you are in Alaska, so be prepared to take in the beautiful scenery and spot some local wildlife while paddling. Some good places to go kayaking or rafting are the Kenai River, the Knik River, the Matanuska River, Eklutna Lake, and Campbell Creek.

Bear viewing

Alaska is the only state home to brown, black, and polar bears, and since Anchorage is in the heart of bear country, you will be able to spot all three types, including polar bears (at the Alaska Zoo). For your safety, we highly recommend you take a bear-viewing tour if you are looking to spot black or brown bears in their natural habitat. Lake Clark, The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and Katmai National Park (home to over 2,200 brown bears) are among the most popular places to view bears in their natural habitat. 

Check Out Our Wildlife Viewing Tours in Anchorage 

Anchorage in The Fall

Fall is a great time to visit Anchorage as the leaves change color and the weather cools down, creating a stunning landscape. The average high temperature in the fall is in the mid-50s, making it perfect for exploring the city and its many parks, such as Potter Marsh Bird Sanctuary- an excellent destination for birdwatchers, with over 200 species of birds.

If you are going to be visiting Anchorage during the fall months, here are some activities you might want to do.

Hunting

Fall is the hunting season for big game such as moose and caribou. A hunting trip is a must if you enjoy hunting and have never been hunting in the Anchorage area. Just remember to get your hunting license. 

Sightseeing

Get your camera ready and take a scenic drive or flight to see the colorful leaves of the birch and aspen trees in the surrounding Chugach Mountains and throughout the Anchorage area. Several flight-seeing tour companies operate in the Anchorage area. 

Check Out City Tours in Anchorage 

Visit the Museums and Cultural Centers

Anchorage has a rich cultural heritage; you can visit the Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center, Alaska Native Heritage Center, The Alaska Botanical Garden, and Alaska Aviation Heritage Museum to learn about the rich history and culture of the state. 

 Check out the top Family Friendly Activities to do in Anchorage.

Indulge in Local Cuisine

Fall is the perfect time to try some of Anchorage's delicious and hearty comfort foods, such as reindeer sausage and caribou stew, or enjoy the fresh seafood caught by local fishermen.

Anchorage in the Winter 

During the winter, Anchorage and the surrounding area transform into a winter wonderland, making it the ideal place to experience the snow and cold weather. The average high temperature during winter is in the mid-20s, making it great for skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling. The Chugach National Forest is a popular destination for winter sports, with many ski resorts and backcountry trails to explore. Additionally, dog sledding and ice fishing are popular during the winter months. 

Keep in mind that temperatures can be frigid in Anchorage during the winter, so it's important to dress warmly and be prepared for extreme temperatures.   

Dog sledding

Experience the Alaskan wilderness by taking a dog sled tour; it's an exhilarating and unique way to see the countryside in the winter.

Ice Fishing

You can fish for arctic char and salmon on nearby frozen lakes and rivers. Campbell Point, Delong, Mirror, Sand, Goose, and Jewel Lakes are some of the best places. Learn more about Ice Fishing from a professional Alaska ice fishing guide. 

 Check Out Our Ice Fishing Tours

Attend the Start of the Iditarod Race

The world-famous Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race long-distance race from Anchorage to Nome is 1,000 miles long and takes place in March. The race starts on 4th Avenue and D Street in Downtown Anchorage and is a must-see event for anyone visiting Alaska during the winter!

Go Dog Sledding with Iditarod Huskies.

Snowmobiling

Go on a snowmobile tour and explore the surrounding mountains and forests while driving one of the most exhilarating vehicles.  

Experience the Ultimate Alaska Adventure with Dogsledding and Snowmobiles.

Northern Lights Viewing

The winter months offer some of the best chances to see Anchorage's aurora borealis or northern lights. And you are in luck since Alaska is one of the best aurora-viewing places in the world! The Alaska aurora borealis is an incredible sight you do not want to miss. 

Get the Best Shot of the Northern Lights with Alaska Photo Treks.

Attend the Fur Rondy Winter Festival

This annual event, held in February, features a variety of winter activities, including snow sculpting, an ice carving competition, and a reindeer run. The Anchorage Folk Festival and the Great Alaska Beer and Barley Wine Festival are other winter events you want to attend.

Winter Walking

The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail provides an excellent opportunity for a winter walk, with beautiful views of the city and the surrounding mountains.

Anchorage in the Spring

Spring is also a great time to visit Anchorage as the weather starts to warm up and the flowers bloom. The average high temperature during spring is in the mid-40s, making it perfect for hiking and exploring the city's many parks. After March 20, Anchorage gets more hours of sunlight than anywhere else in the USA, so it's time to enjoy the great outdoors again!  

Whale Watching

Grey whales return to Anchorage in the spring, and whale-watching tours start operating again in March. 

Moose and Bear Viewing

Moose give birth to their calves in May or early June, so spring is a great time to see moose in the wild. If you'd like to see other animals, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is home to caribou, ox, wood bison, and other species. 

Attend the NYO Games (Native Youth Olympics)

About 500 students from across Alaska assemble in Anchorage each spring to demonstrate their skills in multiple events. Truly impressive! 

Anchorage is an amazing destination to visit in any season. In the summer, the days are long, and the weather is mild, making it perfect for outdoor activities. In the fall, the changing leaves create a stunning landscape, and it's also an excellent time for wildlife viewing and fishing. And in the winter, the city transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a variety of winter sports and activities.

All in all, Anchorage is a destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a culture buff, or just someone who loves great food and shopping, Anchorage is a must-see place. So pack your bags and head to Anchorage – you won't regret it.