Alaska Vacation Tips
Things to do in Anchorage Alaska
Anchorage Downtown
Welcome to Anchorage!

Here you will find all the information you could possibly want about Anchorage Alaska.

Please feel free to browse these topics.

| Nightlife | Restaurants | Shopping | Lodging & Hotels | Radio Stations | Arts & Entertainment | Spa & Beauty | For Kids | Eagle River | Annual Events |

Night life

Anchorage's nightlife is thriving.  Bars, clubs and life bands all go hand in hand. Here we've tried to compile a short list of these fine facilities. This is not a total listing of all Anchorage businesses though.

Bars | Clubs | Movie Theaters

Check out the local Bar scene:

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  • Rum Runners Old Towne Bar- Located in downtown anchorage, this local favorite is sure to please. (907) 278-4493
  • Chilkoot Charlie’s- With it’s unique Alaskan theme, it’s numerous multi-talented employees, and its wide variety of entertainment, this Alaskan institution has become a rite of passage for those coming of age.  Featuring a rustic atmosphere, 3 stages, 3 dance floors and 10 bars (11 in the summertime!) with padded tree stumps and beer kegs for seating. (907) 272-1010

  • Humpy’s- This little sports bar boasts a massive menu.  Featured on ‘Man Vs. Food’, Humpy’s Great Alaskan Alehouse is a must see. (907) 246-2337

  • Long Branch Saloon- This neighborhood dive specializes in good times, cold drinks and tasty food. They have the ‘Best buns’ in town! (907) 349-4142

  • The Kodiak Bar & Grill- This bar and dance floor is sophisticated, and can be found nowhere else in Anchorage.  Come enjoy great drinks and a great time. (907) 258 - 5233

Go to the nickelodeon:

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  • Century 16- This is Anchorage’s largest theater (currently), 16 screens, one of which is XD and the only theater in town that has 3D movies.

  • Totem Theater- This theater has 8 screens, and is conveniently located off Muldoon Road.

  • Fireweed Theater- This is a second-run movie theater, go see a flick for $3!

  • Diamond Cinemas- This 9 screen theater is located in the Diamond mall, and usually features the limited release movies that come to Alaska.

  • Tikahtnu Commons 16 & IMAX-  This is, to date, the only IMAX theater in the state of Alaska.

  • Valley River Cinemas- This is Eagle River’s theater.  It has 6 screens, and is centrally located in Eagle River.

Dance the night away:

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  • Club O- This bar and nightclub hosts plenty of live bands and is a sure crowd pleaser.  Great place to take a large group. (907)

  • Club Millennium- This club features themed nights and caters to the under-21 crowd. (907)

  • F Street Station- Eggs Benedict and beer are their specialty.  This wonderful little bar is located in downtown Anchorage. (907) 272-5196

  • Platinum Jaxx- This locally owned club offers plenty of musical variety and a good time. (907) 276-0135

  • The Peanut Farm- This sports bar is a local favorite located on International Airport Way.  Come in for a great time and awesome food! (907) 563-3283

Restaurants

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 Restaurants in Anchorage range greatly.  It hosts all the fast food joints of the lower-48, but it also has some high class dining.

Asian | Steakhouses | Latin | Italian | Delis & Diners | Local Favorites | Other

If you’re feeling the need for Asian cuisine:

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  • China Lights- Located in downtown Anchorage, this restaurant offers an excellent lunch and dinner menu.  It also has adequate seating for large groups. (907) 522-5888

  • Panda Chinese Restaurant- Featured in USA Today’s ’10 Great Places to Dine’, Panda is sure to cater to your pallet.  (907) 272-3308

  • Benihana- Personalized meals transform at Anchorage’s own Benihana restaurant. (907) 222-5212

  • Thai Kitchen- This award winning Thai restaurant is sure to please, enjoy authentic cuisine nestled in Anchorage’s downtown. (907) 561-0082

  • Yamato Ya- This authentic and intimate Japanese and sushi restaurant is located next-door to Anchorage’s New Sagaya Market.  You are sure to enjoy yourself at this cozy eatery. (907) 561-2128

Places for some great steak:

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  • Club Paris- Voted ‘Best Steak’ seven years in a row, this full service restaurant is sure to have something on their menu you’ll love.  (907) 277-6332

  • Sullivan’s Steakhouse- Sullivan's is 1940's styled steakhouse featuring the finest steaks and seafood, unparalleled martinis, and great live jazz! (907) 258-2882

  • Lone Star Steakhouse- This ranch-style steakhouse is sure to please, with an impressive menu, and full service bar. (907) 562-7827

  • Haute Quarter Grill- Located in scenic Eagle River, this place is a local legend for its great food and intimate atmosphere. (907) 622-4745

Savory Latin Dishes:

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  • La Mex- This authentic Mexican restaurant has two locations to better serve it’s customers.  They’re known for their massive margaritas and excellent food. (907) 344-6399

  • El Tango- This cantina is a gem in the heart of Anchorage.  Featuring over 50 Latin dishes from roasted pork to salt cod stew. (907) 770-2888

  • Don Jose’s- A local favorite, the bar is excellent, and the food is even better. Two locations in Anchorage. (907) 279-5111

Hearty Italian Fare:

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  • Romano’s- This classic-style Italian restaurant has been in anchorage for years, and features a truly authentic atmosphere. (907) 276-0888

  • Nino’s Italian Eatery- locally-loved Nino’s has been a favorite for years.  Centrally located off two major roads in Anchorage this is one stop everyone needs to make. (907) 336-6466

  • Orso’s- A restaurant with local specialties and international inspiration, this is one of the best places in Anchorage to dine in luxury. (907) 222-3232

  • Piccolino’s- Located 13 miles north of Anchorage in Eagle River.  This once small restaurant has become a local phenomenon.  Some of the best fettuccini in the state. (907) 622-5266

Diners & Deli's sure to be a favorite:

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  • Peppercini’s Deli House- Located right off the Old Seward Hwy, this little known deli is hidden in the University Center.  They cater to many businesses in town, and have excellent sandwiches. (907) 279-3354

  • City Diner- This retro dive has a menu circa 1950.  You can order the Radio (tuna salad sandwich) and make it cry (with some onions).  Best fried spam in town! (907) 277-2489

  • Downtown Deli & Café- Great food, and a lovely atmosphere.  Right on 4th avenue across from the log cabin. (907) 276-7116.

  • L'Aroma Bakery & Deli- Fresh baked bread, and fresh ingredients make this deli and bakery a great place to sit and just enjoy the scent of freshly risen dough. (907) 561-5173.

Discover these Local Favorites:

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  • Gwennie’s Old Alaskan Restaurant- A truly Alaskan experience.  Fresh Reindeer breakfasts, with state sized portions.  Come see this historical landmark. (907) 243-2090

  • Lucky Wishbone- One of Alaska’s oldest restaurants, famous for it’s milkshakes, fried chicken, and a host of other dishes. This restaurant also survived the 1964 earthquake! (907) 272-3454

  • Glacier Brewhouse- Locals treasure this brewhouse for its beer, great spent grain bread, and of course their amazing food.  Enjoy your dinner near a fireplace overlooking the brewery. (907) 274-2739

  • Moose’s Tooth Pizzeria and Brewery- This beloved icon has arguably the best pizza in the state.  They also brew their own beer, and make their own sodas!  This restaurant is an Anchorage legend. (907) 256-2537

  • Bear Tooth Theater and Pub- Owned by the same people who have the Moose’s Tooth, this second-run theater and pub stocks locally made beer, and boasts booths to eat and drink while watching a movie.  This is a truly local experience. (907) 276-4200

  • Pizza Man- This Eagle River stop is well worth the 10 minute drive from Anchorage.  Located right  off the main eagle river exit, they offer excellent service, and even better food. (907) 694-3777

Other restaurants of interest:

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  • Aladdin’s Mediterranean Cuisine- Lamb, and couscous are just some of the exotic foods offered here. I highly recommend the mint tea and the baklava. They also offer a full compliment of vegan and vegetarian dishes.  Let our your adventurous side with this wonderful experience. (907) 561-2373

  • Yak & Yeti- Himalayan and Tibetan food is the specialty of this little eatery.  They have plenty of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, sure to be an adventure! (907) 743-8078

  • Organic Oasis- This green café specializes in Organic and Raw foods.  They have an entire menu based around being healthy. (907) 277-7882

  • Middle Way Café- This wonderful little spot has plenty of Vegan, and Gluten-free baked goods and food.  Come see the beautiful side of healthy food! (907)

Shopping

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Anchorage features four major malls.  In order from size they are; The 5th Avenue, Dimond Center, The Mall at Sears, and the Northway Mall.  The Tikahtnu Commons, and the Glenn Square are the two newest shopping areas and feature larger retailers.  The 5th Avenue downtown district features many small local shops and specialty retailers. This mall also features the city’s JC Penny’s. Dimond Blvd offers large chain stores including Men’s Warehouse, Best Buy, and The Sportsman’s Warehouse.  There are two Target’s in Anchorage, one at the Tikahtnu Commons and one on 100th avenue.  There are also numerous Wal-Mart’s.  Anchorage has also recently acquired Walgreens, and those can be found on Muldoon Road and in the Dimond area.

         The malls in Anchorage feature stores such as American Eagle, Hot Topic, Famous Footwear, Zale's, and plenty of local specialty shops.  Most of the major jewelry retailers such as Fred Meyer and J.B. Robinson feature Alaskan Nugget Jewelry, and local shops such as David’s Jewelry or Michael’s Jewelry specialize in custom treasures and fine Alaskana.

Lodging & Hotels

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Most, if not all, hotels in Anchorage feature heavy curtains to keep our the sun in summer.  The city is littered with lodging options; this lists the major hotels and their phone numbers:

  • Hilton Hotel- (907) 272-7411

  • Sheraton Hotel- (866) 388-9621

  • Captain Cook Hotel- (907) 276-6000

  • Anchorage Marriott Hotel- (907) 279-8000

  • The Ramada Inn- (907) 272-7561

  • Clarion Suites- (907) 222-5005

  • Inlet Tower Suites- (907) 276-0110

  • Westmark Hotel- (800) 544-0970

  • Millennium Hotel- (907) 243-2300

  • Quality Suites- (907) 274-1000

  • Best Western Golden Lion- (907) 561-1522

  • Holiday Inn- (907) 248-8848

Radio Stations

FM | AM

FM Stations

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  • KRUA 88.1 FM- UAA

  • KAKL 88.5 FM- Positive Beats

  • KATB 89.3 FM- Religious

  • KSKA 91.1 FM- Public Radio

  • KQEZ 92.1 FM- BOB radio. 80’s, 90’s, and whatever

  • KFAT 92.9 FM- Rap/Hip-Hop/R’n’B

  • KAFC 93.7 FM- Christian Contemporary

  • KZND 94.7 FM- Alternative Rock

  • KRPM 96.3 FM- Classic Rock

  • KEAG 97.3 FM- Oldies

  • KLEF 98.1 FM- Classical

  • KBFX 100.5 FM- Rock, Classic Rock

  • KGOT 101.3 FM- Top-40 Hits

  • KMXS 103.1 FM- Mix Radio, Popular Music

  • KBRJ 104.1 FM- Country

  • KNIK 105.7 FM- Smooth Jazz

  • KWHL 106.5 FM- Rock

  • KASH 107.5 FM- Country

AM Stations

  • KTZN 550 AM- Sports

  • KHAR 590 AM- Nostalgia

  • KENI 650 AM- News/Talk

  • KBYR 700 AM- Talk

  • KFQD 750 AM- News

  • KAXX 1020 AM- Sports

  • KUDO 1080 AM- Talk

Arts & Entertainment

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Anchorage is home to one Performing Arts Center, which features most of Anchorage's Operas, Classical Artists, and Broadway Musicals.  It is located on 5th Avenue, across from the Egan Civic and Convention Center. Call (907)-263-ARTS (2787).
Anchorage also has Cyrano's Bookstore & Playhouse, this establishment hosts local plays including Shakespeare and original pieces. (907) 274-2599
Don't forget that most of the bars and clubs in Anchorage host live bands on the weekends.  Also check Ticketmaster for coming attractions in Anchorage.

Spa & Beauty

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Anchorage has many beauty parlors and spas.  Most hotels have one.  Allure Day Spa and Hair Design, Trend Setters, and Helena's Day Spa are just a few of the business that offer these services.  The scene in Anchorage is constantly changing, and most malls and shopping centers have at least one hairdresser or day spa.

For Kids

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We highly recommend the Anchorage Museum and the Zoo.  Centrally located in Anchorage's scenic downtown, the museum offers many activities for kids to engage their creativity. Call (907) 929-9200 to find out what attractions are in town.
Anchorage also has many parks littered around the city, you're bound to drive right by one!

Eagle River

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Eagle River lays 13 miles north of Anchorage, and is considered a suburb. It is full of activities and sights to see.  You can fish on the river, enjoy the small-town feel of downtown, or even hike Mt. Baldy.  There is always something to do in the summer.  Home to the best Bald Eagle viewing in the country, this town welcomes photographers.  Don't forget to stop by the Sleepy Dog Cafe to have the best cup of coffee in the state, or have a bowl of ice cream and a slice of pizza at Cold Stone and Great Alaska Pizza Company.  You can also go swimming or have a picnic on Fire Lake. This little town is sure to charm any visitor.

Annual Events

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Summer | Winter
Please contact the Anchorage Visitor Center for a more comprehensive list.
The Alaska State Fair Occurs in Palmer, Alaska in late August to Mid September.

Summer Fun:

  • Anchorage Market & Festival- Downtown Anchorage (May 8- Sept 5)

  • Bear Paw Festival- Downtown Eagle River (July 7-11)

  • Girdwood Forest Fair- South of Anchorage in Girdwood (July 4-6)

  • Arctic Thunder Air Show- Elmendorf AFB (July 31- Aug 1)

Winter Wonderland:

  • Eagle River Winter Wonderland Tree Lighting- Town Square in Eagle River (Dec 3)

  • Merry Merchant Munch- Businesses in Eagle River (Dec 3-4)

  • New Years Eve Fireworks- Lions Park in Eagle River & Anchorage Town Square & Alyeska Resort. (Dec 31)

  • Anchorage Folk Festival- All over Anchorage (Last weekend in January)

  • Anchorage Fur Rendezvous- City Wide (Mid Feb - Early March)

  • Iditarod Ceremonial Start- 4th Avenue, Anchorage (Early March)

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