My views do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer.
July 23 & 24, 2025
Anchorage, Alaska
Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city, is a dynamic blend of urban energy and wilderness beauty. Nestled between the Chugach Mountains and Cook Inlet, this vibrant hub offers world-class museums, rich Indigenous culture, and abundant wildlife—often within walking distance of downtown. With nearly 24 hours of daylight in summer, Anchorage is a place where moose wander city parks, glaciers are a day trip away, and the great outdoors meets a thriving arts and dining scene.
Anchorage is home to nearly 290,000 residents, representing roughly 40% of Alaska’s total population. It’s a diverse, modern city with strong Indigenous roots and a gateway to many of the state’s outdoor adventures.
Anchorage is not a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but it serves as a jumping-off point for UNESCO-listed Wrangell–St. Elias National Park, the largest national park in the United States.
History:
Long before Anchorage was founded in 1914, the Dena’ina Athabascan people inhabited the region for thousands of years, living sustainably off the land. Their territory stretched across what is now Cook Inlet, and traces of their settlements, fishing camps, and trade routes can still be found throughout the region.
Following the 1867 purchase of Alaska from Russia, few outsiders moved to the territory. By 1880, only 430 non-Natives had settled in Alaska, but that changed dramatically with the 1898 Klondike Gold Rush. Although gold was not found near Anchorage, the rush brought thousands of prospectors to Alaska, establishing the early foundation for population growth and economic development in the region.
Anchorage itself began as a tent city at Ship Creek in 1915, supporting the construction of the federally funded Alaska Railroad. The town grew quickly as laborers arrived, and it was soon established as a permanent settlement.
During the 1920s and 1930s, Anchorage transitioned from a transient work camp to a small but stable town. A notable chapter in this era came in 1935, when President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal extended to Alaska. The Matanuska Colony Project relocated more than 200 farming families from the Depression-stricken Midwest to the fertile Matanuska Valley north of Anchorage. Many left due to the harsh conditions, but some remained, and their descendants still operate farms in the area today.
World War II marked a turning point in Anchorage’s growth. After the attack on Pearl Harbor, the U.S. military recognized Alaska’s strategic importance. Massive investments poured into the region, and two major bases—Elmendorf Air Force Base and Fort Richardson—were established near Anchorage. Between 1940 and 1950, Anchorage’s population skyrocketed from just over 4,000 to more than 30,000. The influx of military personnel and infrastructure laid the groundwork for a more modern city.
Another transformative moment came in 1964, when the Great Alaska Earthquake—the second most powerful ever recorded—struck. Measuring 9.2 on the Richter scale, it caused widespread devastation in Anchorage. Entire neighborhoods slid into the sea, buildings collapsed, and infrastructure was severely damaged. Despite the destruction, Anchorage rebuilt quickly, using the opportunity to modernize its buildings and reinforce the community’s resilience.
In the 1970s, the discovery of vast oil reserves at Prudhoe Bay and the construction of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline ushered in another era of prosperity. Anchorage, already a transportation and military hub, became the headquarters for major oil companies operating in Alaska. The economic boom funded new civic institutions, including the Anchorage Museum and the $76 million Performing Arts Center, and transformed the city’s skyline with high-rise office towers.
Today, Anchorage is Alaska’s largest city and a vibrant blend of urban amenities and wild landscapes. Its economy is still heavily influenced by oil and government spending, but tourism, commercial fishing, and aviation also play significant roles. As the gateway to Denali National Park, the Kenai Peninsula, and the Arctic, Anchorage serves as the cultural and economic heartbeat of the Last Frontier—shaped by its Indigenous heritage, military roots, and pioneering spirit.
Itinerary:
Arrival: Monday July 23 10:00am
Departure: Tuesday July 24 All aboard: 7:00pm Sail away: 8:00pm
Weather
- Average Temps: Highs around 65°F (18°C); lows around 50°F (10°C)
- Climate: Cool, often breezy, with a mix of sun, clouds, and occasional rain
- What to Wear: Dress in layers with a waterproof jacket. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.
Near the Pier:
Cruise Ship Dock: Ships dock at the City Dock, located roughly 2 miles from downtown Anchorage.
Address: City Dock, Anchorage Port, 2000 Anchorage Port Road, Anchorage, AK 99501
As far as I can tell, we’re the only ship docked in Anchorage
Anchorage Shuttles:
Due to strict port security in Anchorage (three checkpoints), no outside transportation is allowed onto the dock. All transfers must use the Premier Alaska Tours shuttle.
Shuttle Schedule:
- Departs from the ship: Every hour on the hour (:00)
- Returns from downtown (Egan Center): Every half hour (:30)
Operating Hours:
- Wednesday, July 23:11:00 AM to 11:00 PM
- Last pickup at Egan Center: 10:30 PM
- Thursday, July 24: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Last pickup at Egan Center: 6:30 PM
Downtown Drop-off & Pick-up Location:
Egan Center, centrally located in downtown Anchorage. From here, you can walk to shops, restaurants, or arrange a local taxi.
Address of Egan Center: 555 W 5th Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501
Embarking Guests: Please plan to arrive at the Egan Center to board the shuttle to the ship.
ANCHORAGE ⇄ SEWARD SHUTTLE
We will also operate a dedicated shuttle service between Anchorage and Seward, featuring a professional tour guide who will provide commentary and suggestions for things to see and do in Seward.
Schedule:
- July 23: 2 shuttles running from 11:00 AM and returning to the ship at 9:30 PM
- July 24: 1 shuttle running from 8:00 AM and returning to the ship by 7:30 PM
Seward Drop-off/Pick-up Location:
Alaska SeaLife Center – A fantastic marine rehabilitation and aquarium, located downtown and within walking distance of shops and restaurants.
Getting Around:
Walking: Downtown Anchorage is flat, compact, and walkable with shops, museums, and dining within easy reach
Public Transit: People Mover bus system serves greater Anchorage with $2 fare; routes available to major attractions. Visit: muni.org
Taxis/Rideshare: Uber and Lyft operate citywide; taxis are available at key downtown locations
Bike Rentals: Several local outfitters offer rentals near downtown
Anchorage Trolley Tours offers a fun, narrated way to explore the city in an open-air trolley, with three main tour options: the One‑Hour City Tour, Deluxe Tour,and Salmon Express. All are hosted by knowledgeable, long-time Alaskan guides who share local stories and historic insights while cruising past landmarks like Lake Hood, Earthquake Park, and the Alaska Railroad. Tours meet at the Log Cabin Visitor Information Center at 4th Ave & F Street. The One‑Hour Tour (about 15 miles around Anchorage) runs May–September, departs roughly every 30 minutes from 9 AM to 6‑8 PM, and costs ~$25 for adults and $12.50 for children. The Deluxe Tour is a longer 90‑minute experience ($50 adult) with photo stops and deeper exploration. The Salmon Express highlights the William Jack Hernandez Hatchery and salmon fishing culture.
Car Rentals: Car rentals in Anchorage are widely available through major companies like Enterprise, Hertz, Alamo, and Avis, with locations both at the airport and downtown near the Egan Center. Booking in advance is strongly recommended, especially during the busy summer season. One-way rentals to destinations like Seward may be available for an added fee. For guests arriving by cruise, downtown rental offices offer convenient access via the shuttle drop-off. Be sure to check for insurance options, especially if planning to drive on gravel roads or in remote areas.
Nearby Essentials
- Pharmacy: Walgreens – 725 E Northern Lights Blvd (5-min drive from downtown)
- ATM: Numerous downtown locations, including inside the 5th Avenue Mall
- Grocery/Snacks: Lucky Grocery & Deli 326 W 4th Ave
- Walmart: 2.2 miles from Egan Center
- Costco: 3.3 miles from Egan Center
- Target: There are 2 Targets- each about 6.5 miles from Egan Center
- Nearest Church: Holy Family Cathedral – 818 W 5th Ave
- Nearest Golf: Anchorage Golf Course – scenic 18-hole course with mountain views, ~15 minutes from downtown
Witnessing:
Flightseeing tours from Anchorage offer unforgettable aerial views of Alaska’s most dramatic landscapes. A 3-hour tour brings you close to Denali, soaring past remote rivers, forests, and wetlands before circling the towering granite walls and icy crevasses of North America’s tallest peak. For a shorter option, a 30-minute tour over Anchorage and the Chugach Mountains reveals coastal scenery and mountain wildlife. Many tours explore Prince William Sound, with chances to spot tidewater glaciers, bears, and otters—some floatplanes even land on the water. Other popular flights take you over Knik and Colony Glaciers or out to remote parks like Katmai for bear viewing. Flying isn’t just sightseeing—it’s access to Alaska’s wildest places. Tours start at approximately $175. https://www.alaska.org/destination/anchorage/flightseeing-tours#listings
Tony Knowles Coastal Trail: 11-mile scenic trail popular for walking, biking, and wildlife viewing—moose sightings are common. Skirt the fault line of the ’64 quake, stroll through scented forests, look for moose, and take in sweeping vistas where you can spot beluga whales and North America’s highest peak, Mount Denali, all in a single view.
How to Get There: Access to the trail is available at the extreme northeast end of West 2nd Ave. near the railroad depot, at the extreme southwest end at Kincaid Chalet, and several points in between.
Fishing: Anchorage offers a wide range of fishing charter experiences for anglers of all levels. From half-day trips to full-day excursions, local outfitters provide guided adventures targeting species like salmon, trout, grayling, and Arctic char. Many charters operate within the city limits on local rivers and lakes, while others offer fly-in trips to remote locations for a more rugged, backcountry experience. Most tours include all necessary gear, expert instruction, and the option to have your catch cleaned, packed, or even shipped home. Whether you’re looking for urban convenience or wilderness solitude, Anchorage has a fishing trip to match. https://www.alaska.org/destination/anchorage/fishing-charters
Bear Viewing: Just across Cook Inlet from Anchorage, the scenic Big River Lakes region sits at the edge of Lake Clark Pass and offers one of Alaska’s most accessible and rewarding bear viewing opportunities. From June through mid-to-late August, brown bears—often sows with cubs—gather at the mouth of Wolverine Creek to feast on spawning salmon. This peaceful setting offers more intimate wildlife encounters, with fewer aggressive males and more relaxed bear behavior. Tours typically include a 50-minute flight from Anchorage, with prices starting around $725 for a 6-hour excursion. Some trips also feature fishing or lodge visits.
Learning:
- Oscar Anderson House Museum Step back in time at the Oscar Anderson House Museum, the oldest home in Anchorage. Built in 1915, this fully restored residence offers a glimpse into daily life in Anchorage during the early 20th century. Located at 420 M Street, it was one of the first permanent wooden homes in the city.
- Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center: World-class exhibits on Alaskan history, art, and Indigenous culture
- Alaska Native Heritage Center: Explore traditional dwellings, watch cultural demonstrations, and learn about the state’s diverse Native groups
- Aviation Heritage Museum: Learn about Alaska’s aviation pioneers and explore vintage aircraft
Discovery:
- Earthquake Park: Overlooks the site of the 1964 earthquake and offers interpretive signs and Cook Inlet views
- Alaska Zoo: Features native species including bears, musk ox, and lynx
- Summer Dog Sled Adventure: No snow? No problem! Experience the thrill of dog sledding in Alaska—even in summer. This two-hour adventure takes you through forested trails and gentle hills aboard an 8-passenger wheeled cart pulled by a spirited team of Alaskan huskies. On clear days, you may even catch a glimpse of Denali. After the ride, enjoy plenty of time to meet the dogs and learn about life at the kennel. Conveniently located near Anchorage, this tour offers a fun, family-friendly way to enjoy an iconic Alaskan experience—without the winter chill. 2 Hours From $55 per person
🥾 Hiking
- Flattop Mountain Trail: A short drive from downtown, this popular 3.5-mile round-trip hike rewards with panoramic views of Anchorage and Denali (on clear days)
- Kincaid Park Trails: A network of easy to moderate trails, great for walking, biking, or wildlife spotting
- Campbell Creek Greenbelt: Scenic urban trail through forests, with creeks, bridges, and occasional moose sightings
Hidden Gems:
- World’s Largest Chocolate Waterfall – While not recognized by Guinness, this chocolate waterfall is likely to be the world’s largest
- Burial Spirit Houses: Colorful boxes are placed over the dead and left to the elements.
- Wolf Song of Alaska – Internationally recognized group that works to protect the wolf and educate the public about its plight
- Anchorage Light Speed Planet Walk – A high school astronomy enthusiast designed this model of our solar system to be traversed on foot.
- Turnagain Arm Bore Tide – During the summer, surfers in Alaska take advantage of this inlet’s unusual water patterns
- Neighborhood Airplane Hangars – A suburban street in Anchorage doubles as a runway, and each home has its own airplane hangar
- Alaska Resources Library and Information Services – This Alaska library may be the only one in the country that allows you to check out pieces of taxidermy
- The Seward Highway – Considered by many to be one of the most dangerous highways in Alaska – for those of you taking the shuttle…
- Grandma Olga Statue – Pay homage to a preeminent matriarch and the native Dena’ina people at this sculpture installation in Anchorage.
- Diamond Jim’s Liquor Store Sign – A quirky roadside sign was the subject of a years-long legal standoff over highway right-of-way clearances.
Tasting:
- Snow City Café: Popular brunch spot with local seafood and creative comfort food
- Glacier Brewhouse: Known for its house-brewed beers, wood-fired seafood, and steaks
- Moose’s Tooth Pub & Pizzeria: A local institution serving creative pizza and craft beer—often voted best in Alaska
- McGinley’s Irish Pub: A cozy downtown favorite serving hearty food and live music in a traditional Irish setting
- Simon & Seafort’s: Upscale dining with panoramic inlet views and standout seafood
- Wild Scoops: Artisanal Alaskan ice cream with unique flavors like Sitka Swirl or Fireweed Honey
Events:
Audubon Alaska: Summer Bird Walk – “Baby Birds”
When: Wednesday, July 23, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: 1800 Westchester Circle, Anchorage, AK 99517
Join Audubon Alaska for an engaging bird walk led by River Gates, Pacific Shorebird Conservation Initiative Coordinator. This free, themed walk at Chanshtnu/Westchester Lagoon focuses on baby birds. Meet at the kayak and canoe launch — binoculars and friends welcome!
Movie Night at Bear Tooth Theatrepub
When: Wednesday, July 23, 6:00 PM
Location: 1230 W. 27th Avenue, Anchorage, AK 99503
Feature: Twilight Saga: New Moon (2009)
Enjoy dinner, craft beer, and a movie in this beloved Anchorage venue that blends cinema and pub fare in a relaxed, lively atmosphere.
Nightlife:
Anchorage has a lively but laid-back nightlife scene, especially in summer. Highlights include:
- 49th State Brewing Co.: Rooftop deck, local beer, and live music
- Willowaw Social: Anchorage’s first multi-use gathering space featuring SteamDot Coffee shop, a rooftop bar, Blues Central speakeasy, casual American cuisine, craft cocktails …
- Van’s Dive Bar: A low-key local favorite with pool tables and Alaska vibes
Exploring Seward:
Alaska SeaLife Center : Visit marine exhibits and learn about rehabilitation and conservation efforts.
Walk the Harbor & Hoben Park: Stretch your legs, enjoy mountain views, and explore historic waterfront paths.
Waterfront Dining & Shopping: Browse downtown shops—don’t miss Brown & Hawkins, Seward’s century-old general store —and enjoy fresh seafood with a view.
Mural Walk: In 2008, Seward was officially named the “Mural Capital of Alaska”, following the completion of its 12th vibrant mural. This artistic milestone began in 1999, when a local artist and a group of volunteers first collaborated by painting panels on the high school gym floor. What started as an experiment quickly evolved into the Seward Mural Society, now the visual arts arm of the Seward Arts Council. The Society’s mission is to bring Seward’s history and natural beauty to life through public art, celebrating the town’s characters, culture, and Alaskan spirit. Map: https://www.alaska.org/guide/seward-mural-capital-walk
Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise:
- Half-day (4–6 hr): Ideal if time is tight—see whales, sea lions, puffins, and coastal glaciers.
- Full-day (6–8 hr): For deeper exploration and tidewater glacier views; includes lunch onboard.
Choose from operators like Major Marine Tours or Kenai Fjords Tours, both offering narrated cruises with wildlife guarantees.
Kayaking: Paddle calm coves and get up-close to sea otters and waterfowl .
Exit Glacier Hike: Located just 12 miles outside of the community of Seward and accessible by road, access Kenai Fjords Visitor Center for a short, scenic hike and close glacier views. There are several short trails to the terminus of Exit Glacier and daily ranger programs are offered in summer at the Exit Glacier Nature Center.
Travel Tips:
- Wildlife Viewing: Watch for bald eagles, moose, and even beluga whales in Cook Inlet
- Wildlife Caution: Moose and bears occasionally wander into town—observe from a distance
- Plan Ahead: Anchorage is a launch point for day trips to glaciers, national parks, and Denali—book early for peak season
- Weather Variability: Sunny one minute, drizzly the next—layers are key
July 23 & 24, 2025
Anchorage was a challenge. We arrived at 10:30am- which meant everyone was already awake, fed, and eager to go ashore. By 9:00am the residents started forming their own line for the shuttles. As mentioned above, due to strict port security in Anchorage (three checkpoints), no outside transportation was allowed onto the dock. All residents had to use the shuttle.
On our first day, we had two shuttles designated for Seward (about two and a half hours away), and one shuttle running to the city center and back. I knew that several residents had signed up for Seward and then changed their minds, so after the first Anchorage shuttle filled up (and with still over 100 people waiting), I convinced the port agent to convert the second Seward bus to a second Anchorage bus. That allowed us to send an additional 50 people into town. I grabbed a stack of tender tickets and handed them out to the residents who were waiting for the next shuttle. Meanwhile, the tide went out and security added stairs to the makeshift gangway.
The residents who collected tickets were able to board the next shuttle. Then the residents who had been waiting for the rush to die down lined up, and most of them managed to cross the gangway – until the gangway was closed due to tidal fluctuations – they estimated it would be about four hours until conditions improved.
Finally, at 3:30pm the tide had risen and the ship was leveled with the dock again!
I found a brewery and all was well.
I met up with Steven, Michele and Victor for an incredible steak dinner, making the end of the day as awesome as the beginning was rough.
The next morning I got up early and managed to get on the first shuttle into town. I was determined to find a breakfast burrito – I was certain it would be my last chance for a very long time. The first cafe only had drip coffee, and I also wanted a latte.
The next place I found not only had a breakfast burrito- it was made with reindeer (a first for me – and surprisingly spicy)- but they also served Kaladi coffee, the same brand we used at Wash Perk, where I’d worked for years as a barista in Colorado. I took the opportunity to check in with Teri, the owner of Wash Perk. She reminded me that Kaladi coffee had origininated in Alaska. I had completely forgotten that!
I justified my full day out by offering to buy prizes for the ship. I decided to walk to Walmart (it was only about two and a half miles away) and found a beautiful park on the way:
I returned to the city center for pizza with Michele and Steven, and then we thoroughly perused the shops before catching a shuttle back to the ship.
Anchorage had started chaotically, but it ended with good food and good friends. In the end, it was exactly the kind of port that reminds me why I do this: no matter how rough the morning looks, there’s always a moment later in the day when it all comes together (with a large glass of beer).