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Planning a winter trip to Anchorage? You’re in for something truly special!
Anchorage in winter feels like stepping into a snow globe, where city lights meet icy peaks and every day promises a new adventure. Whether you’re here to see the Northern Lights, meet huskies on a sled ride, or explore frozen trails and cozy downtown spots, there’s so much to love about this season.
We’ve spent time exploring Anchorage in every kind of weather, and this three-day winter itinerary brings together the best of it all: unique tours, local eats, and authentic Alaskan experiences that don’t slow down when the temperature drops. Ready to see the wild side of winter in Anchorage? Let’s get to it!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this wildlife and glacier tour! We spotted wildlife in their natural environment, stopped by a conservation center, and saw stunning glaciers along the way. All made possible by our local guide!
Itinerary Overview
Even in the heart of winter, Anchorage shines with adventure. The snow-covered streets, crisp mountain air, and cozy local spots make it one of the most magical times to visit. Over three days, you’ll explore the city’s highlights, meet its wildlife, and experience iconic Alaskan activities—from dog sledding and frozen waterfall hikes to chasing the Northern Lights across the night sky.
Days are short this time of year, but Anchorage makes the most of every bit of daylight (and darkness!). Pack your warmest layers, grab a hot coffee, and get ready for an unforgettable winter getaway filled with adventure, culture, and a little northern magic.
Here’s a snapshot of what’s ahead for your Anchorage winter adventure:
Day 1: Start with breakfast at Biscutclub, then get to know the city on a small-group Anchorage tour with a local guide. Refuel over lunch at F Street Station, then enjoy a relaxed afternoon before ending the day with dinner at Club Paris (or myThai Downtown) and heading out on a late-night Northern Lights tour to chase the aurora into the early morning hours.
Day 2: Sleep in after your aurora adventure, then ease into the afternoon with your choice of two classic Alaskan experiences: dog sledding in Willow or a frozen waterfall hike in Chugach State Park. Both wrap up in time for dinner at Ginger, followed by live music and local brews at Humpy’s Great Alaskan Alehouse to end the night on a fun note.
Day 3: Spend your final day on a Wildlife and Turnagain Arm Tour, spotting Dall sheep, bald eagles, and beluga whales before visiting the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center to see bears and moose up close. Cap off your trip with dinner and drinks at 49th State Brewing, then enjoy a peaceful sunset stroll through Delaney Park before saying goodbye to Anchorage.
Day 1
Breakfast – Biscuitclub
Biscuitclub is the perfect spot to fuel your first day in Anchorage. As you might have guessed by the name, Biscuitclub specializes in hearty meals with homemade biscuits, but offers other classics as well. We loved the welcoming vibe and generous portions. Plus, the coffee had some serious kick to it.
It’s also only a 5-minute walk from the start of today’s 9 am tour!
Morning – Get to know Anchorage like a local
If you want to get your bearings in Anchorage and understand what makes this city so unique, this small-group city tour is the perfect way to start. You’ll see the highlights, hear wild stories from a local guide, and stay warm as you explore by both van and foot.
The tour kicks off at 10 am, just a 5-minute walk from Biscutclub, but be sure to arrive about 20 minutes early to check in. It lasts around 3.5 hours, wrapping up around 1:30 pm, which sets you up nicely for lunch afterward.
You’ll visit landmarks like Earthquake Park, where snow-covered trees frame the dramatic landscape reshaped by the 1964 quake, and Point Woronzof where you get jaw-dropping views of Anchorage and the mountains nearby.
Down at Ship Creek, you might see people ice fishing right in the heart of the city, and inside the ULU Factory, you’ll watch traditional knives being forged the same way they have for generations. And if you’ve never had reindeer sausage, this is the perfect time to give it a try when you try some at Alaska Sausage and Seafood Company! The final stop at Alaska Wild Berry Products is a sweet finish—home to a 20-foot (6-meter) chocolate waterfall and plenty of samples to keep you fueled for the day.
It’s an easy, engaging way to experience Anchorage’s history, culture, and winter magic all in one go, giving you the perfect foundation for the adventures still to come. It’s no wonder this tour has HUNDREDS of five-star reviews—read them here to see why travelers say it’s the ultimate introduction to Anchorage!
Book this Anchorage city tour here and get free 24-hour cancellation!
Lunch – F Street Station
After your morning tour, walk just a few minutes over to F Street Station—one of Anchorage’s go-to spots for a laid-back lunch. It’s only about a 3-minute walk from where the tour ends, so you won’t be out in the cold for long. Inside, the cozy pub-style atmosphere and friendly chatter instantly warm you up, making it a great spot to refuel before the afternoon.
The menu is packed with Alaskan favorites like beer-battered halibut, sourdough crab sandwiches, and reindeer sausage, all served in generous portions that hit the spot after a busy morning. The food comes out quickly, the service is casual but welcoming, and there’s a real local energy to the place. It’s the kind of lunch stop that feels unplanned in the best way.
Afternoon – Your choice!
Since tonight’s northern lights tour will have you out until the early hours, this afternoon is all about taking it slow. We also recommend grabbing a nap at some point before dinner—you’ll thank yourself later when you’re still wide awake under the glowing night sky. Whether you want to unwind, do a little shopping, or stretch your legs in the crisp winter air, here are a few easy ways to spend the next couple of hours before the evening kicks off.
- Relax at your hotel – With a late night ahead, this is the perfect time to recharge. Take a nap, sip a hot drink, or just cozy up by the window and watch the snow fall outside. Anchorage hotels are made for moments like this—warm, comfortable, and the ideal reset before your evening adventure.
- Shop at Anchorage 5th Avenue Mall – Located right downtown at 320 W 5th Ave, Anchorage 5th Avenue Mall is the city’s main shopping hub. You’ll find more than 100 stores, including Apple, Coach, Michael Kors, and Victoria’s Secret, all under one warm roof. It’s a great spot to pick up souvenirs, winter gear, or simply escape the cold for a couple of hours.
- Stroll the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail – If you’d rather get some fresh air, head to this 11-mile (18-kilometer) trail that winds along the coast from downtown toward Kincaid Park. In winter, it’s especially peaceful, with locals snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or just enjoying the quiet beauty of the snow-covered shoreline. Even a short walk here offers postcard-worthy views and a nice stretch before a cozy evening ahead.
Dinner – Club Paris
Before heading out on tonight’s Northern Lights tour, treat yourself to dinner at Club Paris, a downtown favorite known for its cozy, old-school charm and perfectly cooked steaks. Housed in a historic building, this Anchorage staple has been serving hearty classics like filet mignon, prime rib, and halibut since the 1950s, all in generous portions that’ll keep you fueled for a long night ahead.
It’s centrally located, so you can easily walk from most hotels or downtown spots. Just keep in mind that calling ahead for a reservation here is highly recommended. If you’re after something lighter or vegetarian-friendly, myThai Downtown Restaurant (closed Wednesdays) is another excellent choice nearby, offering flavorful curries, stir-fries, and noodle dishes—a warm, comforting alternative before your evening under the aurora.
Evening/early morning
If seeing the Northern Lights is on your bucket list (and it should be!), this small-group tour is the perfect way to make it happen. It’s one of the most magical experiences you can have in Alaska and the kind of night you’ll remember forever.
You’ll head out from Anchorage at 8 pm in a comfortable, heated vehicle with an expert guide who knows exactly where to find the clearest skies. The tour lasts until around 3 am, so bundle up, bring your camera, and prepare for a long but unforgettable evening under the stars.
Your guide will share the fascinating science and ancient legends behind the aurora borealis as you travel outside the city’s light pollution to the best possible viewing spots. Once there, you’ll wait for the lights in a cozy, heated shelter, complete with chairs, hot drinks, and snacks to keep you warm. Then, when the aurora appears—often in brilliant shades of green, purple, and pink your guide will help you capture perfect photos and even take professional shots of you beneath the glowing sky.
With an over 90% success rate on nights when conditions are clear, this tour gives you the best possible chance of ticking the Northern Lights off your bucket list. It’s well-organized, comfortable, and completely hassle-free. But don’t just take our word for it—read more than 100 five-star reviews here to see why travelers say this was a highlight of their trip!
Check availability and book this bucket list Aurora experience here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Day 2
After last night’s late finish chasing the Northern Lights, you’ve definitely earned a slow morning. Sleep in, enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your hotel, and take your time easing into the day. We’ve kept the morning free so you can recharge and make the most of your afternoon adventure—whether that means gliding through snowy forests behind a team of huskies or wandering through Alaska’s frozen wilderness to find a waterfall turned to ice.
Option 1: Afternoon – Go dog sledding
If you’re dreaming of an authentic Alaskan adventure, this dog sledding experience is the one to do. It takes place in Willow, about a 90-minute drive from downtown Anchorage, so you’ll need your own transport to get there, but the journey is well worth it for the scenery alone. We recommend the 2:30 pm tour, which lasts about 1.5 hours and wraps up around 4 pm. By the time you drive back to Anchorage, it’ll be just about dinner time.
This is one of the most popular dog sledding tours near Anchorage, offering a taste of life on the trail without the extreme mushing hours. Run by a friendly, family-owned kennel, it’s clear how well the dogs are cared for. They’re happy, playful, and always ready for cuddles.
You’ll meet the huskies, help harness the team, and then hop into your sled as an experienced musher guides you across private snow-covered trails. The ride is thrilling but peaceful, with incredible views of Denali on clear days.
With a maximum of four travelers per group, the experience feels personal and relaxed, giving you plenty of time to connect with both the dogs and your guide. It’s no wonder this tour has so many glowing five-star reviews—everyone agrees it’s one of the most unforgettable ways to experience Alaska in winter!
Book this popular and uniquely Alaskan adventure here before it sells out!
Option 2: Afternoon – Chase frozen waterfalls
If you’d rather stick closer to Anchorage, this winter waterfall walk is a truly magical experience. You’ll explore Chugach State Park, where the South Fork Eagle River transforms into a landscape of frozen dams and sparkling ice formations—it’s basically real-life Narnia! The tour starts at 1 pm and lasts about 3 hours, wrapping up around 4 pm, so be sure to grab lunch beforehand.
After a scenic drive from downtown to the park, you’ll follow your guide along a snowy trail through the boreal forest to the frozen Barbara Falls. Seeing the waterfall mid-cascade, frozen in time, is something you won’t forget. The area is incredibly photogenic, with shimmering blue ice and frosted trees that look like they’ve been dusted with sugar.
Along the way, you might spot snowshoe hares, birds, or even a moose wandering through the trees. It’s a gentle, guided hike that feels adventurous yet totally safe, with all the winter gear and snacks provided.
This is a slower-paced option that lets you soak in the beauty of Alaska’s winter landscape without needing to venture too far. By the time you return to the city, you’ll feel refreshed, reenergized, and ready to cozy up for another great evening in Anchorage.
Book this frozen waterfall hike here to see Anchorage’s winter beauty up close!
Dinner – Ginger
No matter which adventure you chose today, Ginger is the perfect spot to unwind and savor your final evening in Anchorage. Located right downtown, it’s an upscale yet approachable restaurant known for Alaska-inspired dishes with bold Asian-Pacific flavors.
We loved the cozy, modern vibe and the creative menu. Think fresh seafood, Korean BBQ-style short ribs, and perfectly balanced drinks that feel like a reward after a full day outdoors. The halibut curry and ginger soy-glazed salmon were standouts, but honestly, everything we tried was delicious.
Whether you’re celebrating an epic day or just looking for a relaxed, well-executed meal, Ginger delivers. It’s a little more refined than the brewpub scene but still totally welcoming—exactly the kind of spot that makes your last night in Anchorage feel special.
Night – Live music at Humpy’s Great Alaskan Alehouse
If you’ve still got a little energy left, wrap up your trip with some live music at Humpy’s Great Alaskan Alehouse. Just a short walk from dinner, this Anchorage staple has a fun, laid-back vibe, and live performances starting at 8:30 pm every night except Monday and Tuesday.
We grabbed a local beer, found a spot near the stage, and settled in for a night of music and people-watching. The crowd was a great mix of locals and travelers, and the energy was just right—lively but not overwhelming. It was the perfect way to toast to three days of exploring, eating, flying, and hiking across some of Alaska’s most unforgettable landscapes.
Day 3
Late morning/Afternoon – See wildlife, glaciers, and Alaska’s wilderness with a guide
To wrap up your Anchorage adventure, spend your final day surrounded by the wild landscapes and incredible animals that make Alaska so special. This small-group Wildlife and Turnagain Arm Tour is one of the best ways to experience the state’s rugged beauty without traveling far from the city.
We recommend booking the 11 am to 3:30 pm tour and arriving about 20 minutes early for check-in so you can settle in before departure.
You’ll travel along the scenic Turnagain Arm, one of the most beautiful coastal drives anywhere in the world. As the road winds between dramatic mountains and icy blue water, keep your eyes peeled—you might spot Dall sheep perched high on the cliffs, bald eagles gliding overhead, or even beluga whales surfacing in the inlet below. Your guide keeps things fun and easygoing, sharing stories about the area’s wildlife, geology, and history while helping you spot animals most visitors would completely miss.
The tour includes a visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where you’ll meet rescued bears, moose, bison, musk ox, lynx, and more in spacious natural enclosures. It’s a fantastic opportunity to see Alaska’s most iconic animals up close while learning about the center’s important conservation work.
Before heading back, you’ll continue along Portage Glacier Road, passing shimmering glaciers and walking a short rainforest trail surrounded by snow-covered peaks. This relaxed, small-group experience moves at an easy pace with plenty of photo stops, making it a stress-free way to end your Anchorage trip on a high note.
Read 700+ glowing reviews and book this wilderness adventure here!
Dinner – 49th State Brewing
Cap off your day at 49th State Brewing, one of Anchorage’s most beloved hangouts. This lively brewpub is a local favorite for great drinks, hearty meals, and unbeatable rooftop views. If the weather’s on your side, grab a table on the rooftop patio—you’ll get sweeping views of the Cook Inlet, the Alaska Range, and, if you time it right, a picture-perfect sunset.
The menu covers everything from burgers to fresh seafood, and the beers are brewed right on-site. We tried a couple of their signature ales and paired them with fish tacos and a giant pretzel (no regrets). There’s often live music, trivia nights, or events happening, so the place always feels festive without being overwhelming. It’s the perfect spot to raise a glass to an unforgettable day of adventure, and maybe start plotting your next one!
Evening – Delaney Park
After a full day of exploring glaciers and spotting wildlife, head back toward downtown and take a slow, scenic walk through Delaney Park. Stretching across several blocks, this green strip offers a relaxed way to soak in the evening air while still feeling connected to the city. It’s the kind of spot where locals walk their dogs, kids ride scooters, and everyone seems to pause just a little longer to enjoy the light.
Be sure to wander through the Centennial Rose Garden, tucked right into the park. When we visited in the summer, the roses were in full bloom and the whole garden smelled amazing. With its mountain views and quiet charm, Delaney Park is the perfect place to unwind and reflect on the day’s adventure, without going far at all.
Where to Stay in Anchorage, Alaska
Anchorage is a vibrant city with plenty of great places to stay, whether you’re after comfort, convenience, or something easy on the wallet. From spacious suites with room to spread out to cozy spots that cover all the basics, there’s something for every kind of traveler.
To make planning easier, I’ve rounded up some of the best places to stay in Anchorage. If these hotels are still available, they will be your best bet!
Staybridge Suites Anchorage – $$$
Staybridge Suites Anchorage by IHG is one of the top places to stay in Anchorage, offering spacious suites with full kitchens, cozy living areas, and modern amenities. Just minutes from downtown and the airport, it’s ideal for travelers who want comfort, convenience, and great service. Guests love the indoor pool, complimentary hot breakfast, social evenings, and the friendly, accommodating staff. Whether you’re in town for business or exploring Alaska’s wild beauty, this hotel feels like a home base.
Rates typically start around $300–$750 USD per night. Check availability for your travel dates on Booking.com.
Comfort Suites Anchorage International Airport – $$
Comfort Suites Anchorage International Airport is a convenient and comfortable choice just moments from the terminal. Ideal for layovers or early flights, it offers spacious suites with microwaves and fridges, plus a free 24-hour airport shuttle. Guests appreciate the hot breakfast spread, friendly staff, and indoor heated pool. With quiet rooms, clean facilities, and a reliable shuttle, it’s a stress-free spot to unwind before or after a flight.
Nightly rates typically range from $170 to $400, depending on room type and season. Book your stay on Booking.com.
Aptel Studio Hotel – $
For a budget-friendly stay in Anchorage, Aptel Studio Hotel is a solid choice! Located just a short drive from downtown, this no-frills hotel offers clean, modern studio rooms complete with kitchenettes—ideal for longer stays or travelers who like the option to cook. Each unit includes a seating area, a flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom. Guests appreciate the free Wi-Fi, ample parking, and quiet, safe surroundings.
Rooms start at around $93 USD per night. Head over to Booking.com to lock in your stay!
For more options, see all of Anchorage’s hotels listed here!
Renting a Car in the USA
The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in the USA
- Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!
- Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you’ll be driving in.
- Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.
- Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it’s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.
What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it’s best to check in advance.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms!
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Thanks for reading!
Get ready for some of the world’s most stunning scenery, wildlife, and a bit of local charm when you visit Anchorage! We had so much fun exploring this city and beyond, and if you stick to this itinerary, I know you will too.
Need help planning your other adventures? Check out all of our USA blogs here. We have more city itineraries, top things to do, and guides on where to stay to make your planning simple. Here are a few related blogs to get you started – cheers!
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