14 Things to do and eat in Anchorage, Alaska

Anchorage, Alaska is a great town nestled in between imposing mountains and a beautiful bay. The town is a perfect jumping-off point for adventures and also has some fun places to explore and eat on its own. Here are some of my favorite spots I found during 2 days in Anchorage. Let me know what I left off in the comments!
Read more at ThroughMyLens.com
** All of this information was from our visit in June 2021 **
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[@ethanmcnulty4217]

As a resident of Alaska, I have to say you definitely crushed this one and got almost all the best spots!

[@biker5662]

That's just like him. He's a great tour guide!👌🏼

[@kevinmyrick218]

is Anchorage a nice plae to live? I"m looking for something walkable.

[@quaaaaaaaar]

@@kevinmyrick218 yes! it's very walkable, safe, and beautiful. it's dangerous in mountain view and parts of west muldoon but the city itself and other areas are very safe

[@stephaniemarie8621]

My daughter is a nurse and just went there to work for 3 months and after reading some terrible about Anchorage I got worried about her safety. I read this comment here on another video: "Long-time Alaskan resident & I won't even go to Anchorage anymore because it's too easy to die there on an average day: hit & run pedestrian accidents, crossfire from gangs or crimes in progress, random meth-heads or crazies stabbing or shooting people randomly, forced entries of home or hotel room, muggings, robberies, serial killers, rape, abductions...Anchorage is one of the best places on earth to seek death other than Ukraine at the moment. Women have been disappearing without a trace from the Safeway parking lot in Soldatna for over a decade. If you're Native Alaskan it's worse. If you're a woman, be really aware & careful: rape & violence against women is virtually legal & is seldom prosecuted. Anchorage has thousands rape kits ignored by police for decades. It's a highly toxic atmosphere sown with seeds of destruction. If you want even a minimal assurance of peace & security in your life, stay the hell out of Los Cankerage." Is it true what this person said in the above comment? Is it that bad there?

[@ethanmcnulty4217]

@@stephaniemarie8621 this is mostly true for the big cities, the more sub urban areas like wasilla and palmer it is much safer and many people do things like leave their cars unlocked as they feel so safe

[@snil3464]

Going to Alaska is on the very top of my bucket list, it's such a beautiful, unique place.

[@ThroughMyLens]

It really is! So much more to share form this trip and it only gets better.

[@gaijinguineapig]

I had the privilege of going in November of 2019 and even though it was only 5 days, it made a great first impression. I hope to go back soon and I hope you can too!

[@SuperRussianGoddess]

We'd love for you to come

[@mijajajaja]

Just make sure you don't leave your car door unlocked and keep your valuables on you at all time.

[@Alaska_Gal]

DO IT! I’m headed there tomorrow. I was also in Alaska last winter. My boss used to live there. It’s beautiful & the people are great.

[@attiladerwaldschrat5375]

What impresses me most, dear Josh, is that you take your father everywhere with you. You are a great son. 4 years ago, I was in the USA for the very first time in my life, in Alaska. I fell in love with this paradise on earth. Every day I dream of returning there and, if possible, spending my twilight years there. Thanks for the nice video and tipps. Greating from Germany, Attila

[@fl3551]

Great list!! To the nature lovers I would add (and highly recommend) hiking up "Flattop Mountain": It just offers a breathtaking scenery! Also, back when I lived in ANC I just loved going to "Red Umbrella Reindeer": It is a small sausage cart found downtown, offering seriously delicious reindeer dogs!!

[@Tang-qi6zw]

I'd also recommend Mt Baldy (technically Eagle River, but basically anchorage) if you don't want to go as far or need a slightly easier hike (if you go the less steep, left, direction), while still having great views.

[@TheDoomerGoGetter]

Red umbrella reindeer is bomb

[@stephaniemarie8621]

My daughter is a nurse and just went there to work for 3 months and after reading some terrible about Anchorage I got worried about her safety. I read this comment here on another video: "Long-time Alaskan resident & I won't even go to Anchorage anymore because it's too easy to die there on an average day: hit & run pedestrian accidents, crossfire from gangs or crimes in progress, random meth-heads or crazies stabbing or shooting people randomly, forced entries of home or hotel room, muggings, robberies, serial killers, rape, abductions...Anchorage is one of the best places on earth to seek death other than Ukraine at the moment. Women have been disappearing without a trace from the Safeway parking lot in Soldatna for over a decade. If you're Native Alaskan it's worse. If you're a woman, be really aware & careful: rape & violence against women is virtually legal & is seldom prosecuted. Anchorage has thousands rape kits ignored by police for decades. It's a highly toxic atmosphere sown with seeds of destruction. If you want even a minimal assurance of peace & security in your life, stay the hell out of Los Cankerage." Is it true what this person said in the above comment? Is it that bad there?

[@rocket870]

I watched this video like a very long time ago. This video has been sitting at the back of my head, and I don't know why, but it gives me so much nostalgia

[@W31rdY0utub3rUs3r]

i live in anchorage, alaska, one of my favorite places in alaska is seward, it's a long drive but it's worth it to see the otters and waterfalls!🙂

[@nevadahiker6661]

Hey, my homestate! And I lived in Anchorage for 5 years! The boardwalk at Potter's Marsh is cool too. Lots of times you'll see moose! Plus, the Anchorage overlook from the Flattop trailhead!

[@Andyakadarkhero]

Anchorage local here, & heres some missed spots- 1-Mt. Flat top, 2-Moose's tooth pizza, 3-Bear tooth theater and bar, 4-Simon & seaforts, 5-Road Runner out door dinning, 6-Kincaid park trails, 7-powerline pass, 8- beluga point & McHugh trail, 9- potters marsh, 10- down town farmers market, 11- alaska rail road tours, 12-ship creek salmon derby, 13- fishing off the Campbell creek trail, 14- Altura, 15- down town square and PAC center, 16- the Captain cook hotel, 17- Fishin Alaska information and entertainment, 18-meril field flight tours, 19-Humpy's 20-5th avenue mall, 21-Avenue bar, 22- new Sagaya, 23- whiskey gulch in the airport for when you leave.

[@stephaniemarie8621]

My daughter is a nurse and just went there to work for 3 months and after reading some terrible about Anchorage I got worried about her safety. I read this comment here on another video: "Long-time Alaskan resident & I won't even go to Anchorage anymore because it's too easy to die there on an average day: hit & run pedestrian accidents, crossfire from gangs or crimes in progress, random meth-heads or crazies stabbing or shooting people randomly, forced entries of home or hotel room, muggings, robberies, serial killers, rape, abductions...Anchorage is one of the best places on earth to seek death other than Ukraine at the moment. Women have been disappearing without a trace from the Safeway parking lot in Soldatna for over a decade. If you're Native Alaskan it's worse. If you're a woman, be really aware & careful: rape & violence against women is virtually legal & is seldom prosecuted. Anchorage has thousands rape kits ignored by police for decades. It's a highly toxic atmosphere sown with seeds of destruction. If you want even a minimal assurance of peace & security in your life, stay the hell out of Los Cankerage." Is it true what this person said in the above comment? Is it that bad there?

[@quaaaaaaaar]

@@stephaniemarie8621no but if you're a woman it's pretty bad

[@stephaniemarie8621]

@@quaaaaaaaar Actually my daughter just came back from Anchorage (she was there for several months) 1 month ago and said it's not as bad as people say. You just have to stay alert and she carried a gun the whole time she was there.

[@dtalbot9200]

As a former long time Alaskan, I enjoy watching videos about Alaska. You obviously are doing your homework on the cities and places you highlight and your doing it very well. My advice to you. . . keep up what your doing in ALASKA and stick with it and with your style. Alaska could end up being a long time meal ticket for you.

[@ThroughMyLens]

I would love to spend more time in Alaska, it is an amazing state!

[@bacquetqge]

My wife and I live in Scotland and have been watching your videos for more than a year now. Thank you for sharing and for always being so positive about these traveling experiences. We also love how you travel with your dad and call him pops :)) Much love to both of you.

[@WildlifeWarrior-cr1kk]

Tell your wife I said hi she knows who I am

[@martineldred6565]

21 Years living in Eagle River (near Anchorage) and I heartily agree with your recommendations! Glad you enjoyed ANC.

[@jondstewart]

14 years of Eagle River for me. It’s not the real Alaska, of course, but I love it. In terms of restaurants, don’t you think the Matanuska Brewing Company is absolutely horrible to that All-American comfort food Johann’s they had until 2011?

[@trev2058]

I enjoyed Alyeska Ski resort(55min south) and Portage Glacier(1 .5 hr south)of Anchorage.

[@ak-northman726]

The Alaska aviation museum is some wonderful history. 👍🏻

[@Thialeana]

Anchorage has so much to offer for fun things to do. Two of my other favorite places to eat as a local to the area are Fat Ptarmigan and the Peanut Farm, Also Wild Berry scoops for Ice Cream! Yum!

[@rahtue2988]

You were missing out on burrito king, Thai village, Charlie’s bakery, and vip. Class restaurants, so good.

[@nataliegraves8213]

I live here in Alaska, very close to Anchorage! Love this state so much!!!!!

[@OutOfThisVan]

Those donuts look incredible! Make a plan to stop there next time we pass through. Thanks

[@relbinny]

My art was displayed at the Anchorage museum. Pretty neat!

[@christopherwateland7453]

We lived there for almost 2 years. Great highlights and I couldn't agree more about the places to see and eat! I miss is almost every single day! Can't wait to go back. Great video.

[@andychrist338]

Shhhh….it horrible here. Shhhh…it’s always dark…shhh…snow all year…shhh Amazon doesn’t deliver here. Stay away yuppies.

[@alexandersikorsky1689]

Visited Anchorage and Fairbanks in 2002 , a while...)) had this destination on my agenda to come again)) after Your video it moved to first place! thank You my dear friends!

[@SuperRussianGoddess]

Awww I'm born and raised here in Anchorage, I'm glad you had a good time!!!!

[@RomanThaDroman]

Anchorage is awesome, it's one of those places i keep remembering & really want to return to. You're right about the food there, their grub game is on point.

[@jpadicecoffee9812]

In Anchorage, every thing at these shops looks great to eat and the animals are easy to tour without having to go to the hinterland. Definitely will see the next video.

[@inedenimadam]

Definitely right about Fire Island Bakery!! Home of the world's greatest peanut butter creme cookie!! 🤟

[@buckeyeguy82]

I always look forward to your videos Josh! This one makes me want to change up some summer plans & take a trip to Anchorage next summer. That midnight sunset looks amazing! Thanks for all the tips & looking forward to your next Alaska video.

[@ThroughMyLens]

So glad you liked it and thanks for the comment! I can't wait to share all the rest of the Alaska stuff. So many amazing experiences. I will be posting videos every week for the next month probably.

[@Diathrsh]

Theres also rustic goat in middle of town and they have good and savory burgers

[@peldridge2627]

Former resident here, and NOW I want to eat at all my fav restaurants you talked about! One look at the eggs Benedict in the intro & I knew you were at Snow City, and then at Moose's Tooth - gosh! These restaurants plus all the great things to see that you listed here, I'd say you've really presented all the best Anchorage has to offer. So glad you had a great time and shared with us!

[@amyz673]

The trolley in downtown Anchorage and Gwennie’s Old Alaska Restaurant on Spenard - killer breakfast but stay away from the coffee 😆

[@Kruze777]

Thank you . I’m going to visit all the foodie places you showed. I can’t wait . I’m going in September.

[@DraggyCash]

I work at Glacier Brewhouse. Definitely gots the good food. It's changed a bit but it's overall a wonderful place to work and eat at.

[@roamsweethome4895]

Thanks Josh, I see now that there are some new things to see in Anchorage. Being from Kenai myself, I can tell your viewers that you nearly nailed it. 😉 While Anchorage is our biggest city, it needs to be noted that Alaska has many great cities, (towns), worth visiting. Also, Alaska is 2.5x the size of Texas!! It takes time to see it all. If you’re planning your next trip for Alaska, here are a couple things to consider coming from a person who’s lived there nearly 40 years. Due to its size, renting a motorhome in Anchorage, or getting outfitted for camping at one of our many stores, will be your most affordable options to see all of AK in a short time. To really experience the state, plan to spend 2 months here. The best two months being June & July if you drive in, (yes, you can drive to Alaska), and/or July & August if you fly. Take the time to talk to locals in the smaller towns to find “hidden” gems that aren’t in most tour guides. Alaska has been the friendliest state towards tourists that I’ve experienced.

[@earthlycolorbrown6246]

What are the best neighborhoods and schools for families with school age children relocating to Anchorage area?

[@Spockston]

For fried chicken, try Lucky Wishbone, located right on the edge of midtown, right between midtown, and downtown, an old drive in, it was established in the 1940's as a quick bite to eat before Ted Stevens International was Anchorages Airport. (They also have Malt Milk Shakes.)

[@avoiceinthechoir5791]

Thank you for sharing your epic vacation with your dad.

[@robertmullen781]

You forgot about 4th avenue and the reindeer dogs yum

[@MoneyMC209]

Thanks Josh! I was waiting for this. Hope to see your other vids from Alaska soon

[@barbarapiedra1845]

We’re going next month!!! Perfect timing! Great job as always!

[@suri-melalifestyletoronto]

I've been here at Alaska wildlife Conservation center, it was really amazing!

[@annarozell7671]

Live in Fairbanks. I only fly in or out or drive through to go to some where else. Alaska is a beautiful state!

[@Sweetiepie032510]

Love your videos ! You have a nice easy listening to voice which make it enjoyable ! Love Pop's ! You will never forget these memories with your Dad !

[@NightOwlUpNorth]

I would add to anyone coming up here, either this year or in the future, to check the weather online and pack accordingly.

[@russellwatson7637]

As a local resident, many of us are oblivious to the beautiful state we do love in, and take for granted what much of the continental US wishes to one day see.

[@stephaniemarie8621]

My daughter is a nurse and just went there to work for 3 months and after reading some terrible about Anchorage I got worried about her safety. I read this comment here on another video: "Long-time Alaskan resident & I won't even go to Anchorage anymore because it's too easy to die there on an average day: hit & run pedestrian accidents, crossfire from gangs or crimes in progress, random meth-heads or crazies stabbing or shooting people randomly, forced entries of home or hotel room, muggings, robberies, serial killers, rape, abductions...Anchorage is one of the best places on earth to seek death other than Ukraine at the moment. Women have been disappearing without a trace from the Safeway parking lot in Soldatna for over a decade. If you're Native Alaskan it's worse. If you're a woman, be really aware & careful: rape & violence against women is virtually legal & is seldom prosecuted. Anchorage has thousands rape kits ignored by police for decades. It's a highly toxic atmosphere sown with seeds of destruction. If you want even a minimal assurance of peace & security in your life, stay the hell out of Los Cankerage." Is it true what this person said in the above comment? Is it that bad there?

[@BMVarrix]

​@@stephaniemarie8621that's a load of crap, and whoever said that is full of sh*t. I've lived here my whole life and have never experienced ANYTHING close to what you just said. Just, NO! Not true in any sense. In fact you should go and slap the sh*t out of whoever told you that crap.

[@chrisretired5379]

As an Alaskan res, in my opinion, the Fire Island bake shop is an awesome stop 💝 In the summer, try the rhubarb pie, you will want the whole pie for purchase!

[@Huddy-ph4is]

Another awesome breakfast is called Waffles and Whatnot

[@rebekahguy4290]

We are planning a trip to Alaska soon, and your videos have been super helpful and fun to watch while we plan!

[@rozepyracantha5574]

We’re really looking forward to that second video follow up LOL planning our trip soon and your page is the first one we liked so far

[@lizdubyak2538]

This Alaskan was very happy with your video. Glad you enjoyed our beautiful state!!!

[@berryv111]

Wife and I are planning our trip in September of 2022, we can’t wait!

[@Xt1000]

I'd add fishing if your trip is in June,July or August. Flat top, Wornzof point, Earthquake park, Kincaid park, Downtown shops, Fur rondy,Start of Iditarod, Crow pass trail in Girdwood, Ekluntna lake, Turnigan arm, Potters Marsh, Bird creek, Beluga point, Whittier, Hatchers pass to name a few

[@ShawnQuish0904]

49th State Brewing is also a great place.

[@alaskan6384]

I love watching your videos, but never expected you to come to my hometown. Thanks for making us look so good. I expect we'll see a lot of visitors here who were enticed by your video. Cheers

[@ThroughMyLens]

So glad you liked it! We loved exploring Anchorage and the surrounding areas. The drive to Seward was one of the best I have ever done!

[@alaskan6384]

@@ThroughMyLens Thanks again and keep up the great work!

[@M60gunner1971]

You left out Chilkoot Charlies, Darwins Theory, Captain Cook restaurant, Sourdough Mining Company, all I can remember. Left in December of 1994. Miss Alaska quite a bit.

[@bearpawz_]

Good memory! Darwin's Theory, Captain Cook and Chilkoot Charlies (renamed "Koots" a year or two ago) are all still alive & well. Sourdough Mining is gone & everybody still misses it... Someone bought the building and there's a new business in it, but not a restaurant.. Mooses Tooth is still as popular as ever, and a second location will be open soon. 😋

[@SmallWonda]

Oh yum! The halibut looked divine - everywhere looked inviting.

[@Sarberos909]

Oh man if you want amazing pizza in Anchorage, skip mooses tooth and check out Capri's over on Spenard, I got referred there by mooses tooth employees! Also would recommend checking out the rustic goat restaurant!

[@Roadtosomethingnew1]

Great video Josh, loved seeing all the food options you recommended in the city

[@eldormido8a]

Nice shout out to anchorage. Everything you mentioned would not disappoint.

[@messer7199]

Best Alaska video I have seen! No BS

[@TravellingTrav1025]

Great video work like always!! Hope to make it up to Alaska someday

[@deidredeutsche]

Hi Josh and Pops! Great to see another installment of your travels. Your pleasantly narrated videos are always a pleasure to view. Mmmmm, the food looked divine. Happy travels! Looking forward to MORE! Stay safe. 🙂

[@ThroughMyLens]

Glad you like them! So much more to come from the Alaska trip over the next month or so!

[@krisg3984]

Yes, good narration !

[@marinebase572]

Hi dear ....... how are you doing today

[@martinramirezmi5457]

Anchorage seems like a great place!

[@phelan5387]

Gwennies is one of the best breakfast spots in Spenard.

[@sarahaley4340]

This is excellent. Born and raised in Anchorage. I have an AirBnB by earthquake park and you really hit some gems here on the west side!

[@mrsroseblack9310]

We live by earthquake park and have an Airbnb across town :) hi neighbor!

[@ssettev9361]

Thanks for a great video.

[@michellelogreco3351]

I am going to Anchorage in August, thanks for the video!

[@kizaroplays602]

Well I’m going to anchorage Alaska soon and that place seems great and can’t wait to go there😊

[@paulgerrard9227]

If you are driving the independence mine is a terrific half day. In Anchorage the trolley ride is informative and stops at the ulu factory and much more

[@JohnDoe-xu2vx]

In 1972 my buddy and I drove to Anchorage from So Calif. Such a beautiful state bit back then the whole city was just bars and pawn shops.

[@JohnDoe-xk8iy]

You and your dad are amazing, wish I could go on vacation with you guys, looks like a blast every time. I almost wish he was my dad cause he’s just too damn cool!

[@ThroughMyLens]

haha so glad you like the trips and I agree my dad is a great travel companion!

[@mrsroseblack9310]

The Kobuk samovar are the best donuts I’ve ever had! So happy you tried and loved them :) and Mooses Tooth is my favorite pizza. I get the Popeye and do a couple mods :)

[@Nukefandango]

Man I miss mooses tooth!

[@yordanpopov]

The pride flags ruined it. They should keep politics to themselves.

[@brenw.6096]

Hi Josh! Long time no see.... Love the video. I would love to see Alaska. Thanks. 🇺🇸💜🦄

[@chantico6518]

Thank you for the entertaining and informative video!

[@SuperSchmudi]

We are from germany and going next week to a round trip to Alaska. Thanks for the Video, especially the food tips 😂 Now I know where to take an awesome breakfast 😊

[@judisides828]

My oldest brother lives in Anchorage. I've never been there. Maybe soon. Beautiful video.

[@pathendlem]

For food go to moose tooth’s pizza or 49th state brewery!

[@peterschmitt9802]

My favorite bar in Anchorage was Humpy's. Good food and local brews.

[@malatie]

Very beautiful place

[@AmbientWalking]

Very cool. I wish I was there too! Awesome trip!

[@AnnaArvanitis]

Awesome! Thank you 😊

[@miahmarieeeeee]

Thanks for this beautiful video ❤️

[@ThroughMyLens]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@DgDanger72]

Snow city cafe is my go to for breakfast when in Anchorage.

[@ThroughMyLens]

It is so good!

[@amonrutherford6194]

I'm in Alaska and love 💕 it

[@tonybob791]

Don't forget Bean's Cafe. The atmosphere there will make you mindful of home.

[@eduardosalazr2071]

As a resident of anchorage you did good

[@PhotowalksTV]

Great video Josh, and glad to see you're keeping Pops employed!

[@ThroughMyLens]

haha I am trying! Already planning the next road trip, once I can finish editing this one haha

[@paleo704]

Great video

[@kassandrarendon723]

Alaska is definitely on my bucket list!

[@ThroughMyLens]

It was amazing, I can't wait to share more!

[@califorori5177]

We are your big fan 😊

[@LauraOnTheMove]

The food looks amazing! Seems like very few people spend time with food in Alaska because it's expensive. All of these places looked so worth it!!

[@jondstewart]

A well-kept secret of Alaska is skiing. We have only one major ski resort, but it’s not really much of a tourist attraction and not that big considering there’s only 5 major lift chairs including the tram.

[@otaviovieira1041]

Great video.👍

[@MENSA.lady2]

Best food I had was the locally caught salmon at the Lakeside Hotel on the edge of Lake Hood seaplane base. In the summer months you can dine outdoors and watch the aircraft taking off and landing on the lake.

[@jannashookpuk3196]

I wish we still lived in Anchorage but we have more family in Fairbanks

[@stanmagdon6277]

Glazier brew house was great. Ate there twice

[@kristelly06]

I really hope I can get a teaching job in Alaska soon. I really like the place. ❤️

[@MrJoebob311]

Would definitely try gwennies for their reindeer sausage omlette plus very close to airport and hotels moosetooth is great but expect a long line and glacier brewery definitely get the halibut!

[@duckygoesquackquack848]

as an alaskan i would also recommend south restaurant! it’s owned by the same people as Snow City Cafe and they have such good food, i love the hummus and the cauliflower tacos!!

[@dereksevcik6595]

If you wanna wear a mask sure go there

[@alliegorringe]

Beluga point, eklutena lake, and flattop !

[@Joshwesterhof]

After the wildlife center stop at Girdwood brewing in Girdwood for some amazing beers.

[@jessicavelez4169]

Love it

[@ramthian]

Thanks 🙏

[@decodeco222]

Great video. Thanks.

[@ThroughMyLens]

Glad you liked it!