How to Spend THREE DAYS in Anchorage, Alaska: 3-Day Itinerary 

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Anchorage is one of those rare cities where urban life and rugged wilderness sit side by side. From glacier landings and coastal bike trails to moose sightings and scenic downtown eats, this place has everything. 

After multiple trips over the years, we’ve pieced together the perfect three-day itinerary that blends adventure, local culture, and seriously good food, without feeling rushed or overstuffed. Whether you’re just getting to know the city or revisiting an old favorite, this guide will help you experience the best of Anchorage, with just the right mix of structure and flexibility to make it all your own. Let the adventure begin!

Itinerary Overview

Three days in Anchorage is just enough time to dive into Alaska’s wild beauty, Indigenous culture, and unique downtown food scene. While the city is walkable, especially around downtown, some of the best adventures lie just outside the city limits, so you’ll mix strolls with shuttles and scenic drives. 

This itinerary balances active outings with cultural stops and local flavors, whether you’re pedaling along the coast, touching down on glacier ice, or sipping drinks at sunset. You’ll explore at your own pace without missing the highlights that make Anchorage such an unforgettable place to visit.

Day 1: Start with breakfast at Snow City Cafe, then ride the Anchorage Trolley for a city overview. Visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center, grab lunch at Alaska’s Gourmet Subs, and bike the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. End the day at the Alaska Botanical Garden, followed by dinner at Fletcher’s and drinks at Darwin’s Theory.

Day 2: Take a full-day wilderness tour to see wildlife, glaciers, and Portage Glacier. Return to Anchorage for a walk through Delaney Park, dinner at 49th State Brewing, and live music if you’re up for it.

Day 3: Fly over glacier-carved terrain, then sample Anchorage’s best bites on an afternoon food tour. If time allows, swing by the Anchorage Museum for a dose of culture. Or spend the day hiking Matanuska Glacier on a guided trek filled with blue ice, wildlife, and photo-worthy views. End your trip with dinner at Ginger and a night of live music at Humpy’s Great Alaskan Alehouse.

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 3-minute walk from the start of today’s 9 am tour!

Morning – Experience Anchorage’s history and culture on a trolley city tour

When we first landed in Anchorage, we felt a bit lost, unsure how to explore the city best. That’s exactly why we booked this Anchorage trolley tour, and now it’s the first thing we tell everyone to do.

We recommend booking the 9 am tour, which gives you time to enjoy breakfast at Biscuitclub and wraps up around 10:30 am, just in time to keep exploring. 

The trolley makes a scenic loop past Anchorage’s top highlights, like Earthquake Park, Lake Hood, the Alaska Railroad Depot, and even Point Woronzof, where we spotted a moose hanging out by the trees. We were barely halfway through our coffee when someone shouted, “moose!” and the whole trolley practically jumped out of their seats.

Watching floatplanes land on Lake Hood felt like something out of a documentary, and we appreciated that we had time to stop for photos without feeling rushed. Our guide, Prince, made it all even better! He was hilarious, super knowledgeable, and totally dialed into local life.

As a bonus, you get a coupon booklet with over $200 USD in local travel deals, which actually saved us money later in the trip. Score!

We’re so glad we started with this tour. It gave us our bearings and set the tone for a smooth, fun trip. And clearly, we’re not the only ones who loved it! Check the thousands of five-star reviews here to see why it’s a must-do in Anchorage. 

Seats fill up fast, so book in advance to lock in your spot!

Mid-morning – Alaska Native Heritage Center

After the trolley tour, take a 15-minute drive or hop on the free downtown shuttle (offered from June through September) to the Alaska Native Heritage Center. This isn’t your typical museum. It’s an immersive, interactive space that celebrates the traditions, languages, and lifestyles of Alaska’s Indigenous cultures. 

Between the indoor exhibits, traditional dwellings set around a peaceful lake, live performances, and hands-on demonstrations, there’s a lot to take in. The center is fully open from mid-May to mid-September, daily from 9 am to 5 pm, with an admission fee of $30 USD. The rest of the year, a smaller portion is open at a reduced price. 

You could easily spend an entire day here, especially if you’re the type to linger at every exhibit. But if you’ve got a bike ride on the horizon like we did, two hours is the sweet spot for soaking up history, culture, and storytelling in a truly special setting.

Lunch – Alaska’s Gourmet Subs

After soaking up history and culture, you’ll be ready for a quick lunch, and Alaska’s Gourmet Subs hits the spot without slowing you down. This casual local favorite is just steps from the meeting point for your afternoon bike tour, which makes it a super convenient stop.

The menu’s full of hot and cold subs made to order, with plenty of hearty and veggie-friendly options. We went with the halibut sub (because, when in Alaska…) and it was surprisingly filling without being too heavy. Service is fast, prices are fair, and it’s the kind of no-frills lunch that gets the job done, so you’re fueled up and ready to roll.

Afternoon – Take a bike ride along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail

After lunch, it’s time to stretch your legs and see a wilder side of Anchorage. We booked the 2–5 pm time slot on this small group bike tour, and it ended up being one of our favorite activities of the trip.

We wanted to explore more of Anchorage’s scenic trails, but planning our own route felt overwhelming. This tour made everything simple—just show up, hop on a bike, and follow a local guide who knows exactly where to go (and where the moose like to hide). 

We kicked off in Kincaid Park, cycling past Cold War-era missile silos before spotting moose tracks and a curious porcupine crashing through the brush. From there, the trail opened up to sweeping views of the Cook Inlet, and we even got a clear look at Denali in the distance. 

The ride was smooth and relaxed, with that perfect blend of fresh air, wildlife, and photo-worthy stops. Our guides, Joe and Brian, were laid-back and knowledgeable, weaving in stories about the local ecosystem and stopping whenever something cool appeared, like swans coasting across the water.

We finished at Westchester Lagoon, where salmon were swimming upstream and golden evening light lit up the bird sanctuary. It was the perfect balance of active and easy, and gave us a whole new appreciation for Anchorage’s outdoors.

Book your spot here and get FREE cancellation 24 hours before you go!

Evening – Check out the Alaska Botanical Gardens

After a full afternoon of biking, slow things down with a peaceful walk through the Alaska Botanical Garden. Open until 7 pm during the summer (when the sun stays up well into the evening), it’s the perfect spot to catch your breath and enjoy one last dose of nature before dinner.

Set among birch and spruce forests, the garden is home to vibrant wildflowers, native Alaskan plants, and the occasional art installation tucked between the trees. It’s not massive, but it feels like a hidden gem—quiet, relaxing, and just the right place to start winding down after an active day. 

Dinner & Drinks – Downtown Anchorage

Wrap up your first day with dinner at Fletcher’s, a cozy bistro tucked inside the historic Captain Cook Hotel. It’s known for hearty Alaskan comfort food—think fresh halibut, rich chowder, and solid pasta dishes. We split a couple of plates and left full and happy. The vibe is warm and classic, with wood-paneled walls and just the right level of buzz for a relaxed meal after a busy day.

After dinner, walk across the street to Darwin’s Theory, a no-frills local bar that serves strong drinks at great prices. It’s a true Anchorage favorite, with a jukebox playing classic tunes and regulars who’ll give you great tips if you’re up for a chat. It’s the perfect low-key spot to toast your first full day in Anchorage.

Related Read: Looking for another mountain-filled getaway? Check out our 3-day Banff itinerary for more outdoor adventure!

Day 2

Mid-day – See wildlife, glaciers, and Alaska’s wilderness with a guide

Start your second day with the ultimate Alaskan adventure—we booked the 11 am to 5 pm option on this guided wilderness tour, and it absolutely stole the show. We wanted to see Alaska’s big landscapes and wildlife without stressing over routes, rentals, or research, and this tour made it all effortless.

From the moment our guide, Patrick, welcomed us aboard, it felt like a road trip with a local friend—one who knew all the best glacier views, wildlife spots, and quirky Alaskan trivia. We visited the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center to see massive brown bears and musk ox up close, then cruised through the Chugach National Forest with scenic stops like Bird Point along the way.

But the Portage Glacier cruise was hands-down our favorite part—drifting right up to the sheer ice face while a park ranger explained the landscape was the kind of “only-in-Alaska” moment we’ll never forget. 

Please note that the boat operates only in the summer, but it’s absolutely worth the upgrade if available. We even made a quick stop in Girdwood, where we learned about the gold rush history and the gutsy miners who once carved their way into the mountains.

This tour felt like three adventures packed into one—glacier views, wildlife encounters, and wild stories, all without lifting a finger to plan. It’s earned thousands of five-star reviews, which you can read here that speak volumes, and after doing it ourselves, we can see why so many travelers call this a can’t-miss experience in Anchorage!

Secure your spot here and discover the wild side of Alaska!

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.

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!

Day 3

Option 1: Helicopter flight and food tour 

Morning – Get incredible views from a helicopter flight with landings

If you’re the type who wants to go out with a bang, this combo of sky-high views and downtown flavors is your perfect Anchorage sendoff. Between landing on a glacier and sampling wild Alaskan fare, today is all about making memories you can’t get anywhere else.

Kick things off with this 10:15 am helicopter tour that’s straight out of a dream. You’ll need to check in 45 minutes early, and it’s about a one-hour scenic drive from downtown to the takeoff point in the Knik River Valley. But once you’re up in the air, the effort fades fast.

This small-group flight was one of the most surreal experiences of our trip. We lifted off and immediately soared over a landscape that looked straight out of a sci-fi movie—jagged ice walls, glittering alpine ridges, and deep valleys carved by centuries of shifting glacier ice.

But the best part? We didn’t just fly over it—we landed three separate times: once on a snowy mountaintop, once beside a vertical ice wall, and finally right on the Knik Glacier itself. Stepping out onto the ice, surrounded by silence and shimmering blue, felt like walking into another world!

Our guide (shoutout to Michael!) made glacier geology surprisingly fascinating, answering questions and letting us wander, take photos, and really soak in the moment. And even in winter, when heavy snow might prevent landing directly on the glacier, you’ll still touch down next to towering formations that are just as jaw-dropping.

Book this tour here and get flexible payment and cancellation options!

Afternoon – Food tour

After a big morning in the sky, spend your afternoon diving into Anchorage’s tastiest local spots on this small-group walking food tour. It departs at 2 pm from downtown, so the timing works perfectly after the helicopter experience. Just keep in mind the tour doesn’t run on Mondays or Tuesdays, so plan accordingly to fit it into your schedule.

We weren’t sure how much we’d really get to try, but this tour completely delivered. Our guide, Chris, was born and raised in Alaska and led us through a fun mix of local legends, hidden gems, and unexpected bites.

We stopped at Snow City Café for buttery biscuits and smoked salmon, ducked into The Kobuk, where the smell of fresh doughnuts hit us before we even opened the door, and tried a sampler at Humpy’s Alehouse that included halibut and reindeer sausage—hearty, flavorful, and exactly what we hoped Alaskan food would be.

There were even handmade Russian dumplings, which were surprisingly comforting and rich in local heritage. Chris sprinkled in stories about the Iditarod, Anchorage’s gold rush roots, and the city’s quirky personality, all while answering questions and keeping the vibe fun and relaxed.

Check out all the 5-star reviews and book this food tour here!

Anchorage Museum

If you find yourself with some extra time, swing by the Anchorage Museum, located right downtown. It’s open daily from 10 am to 6 pm, and admission is $25 USD. Give yourself an hour or two to explore the exhibits, which cover everything from Alaska’s Indigenous cultures to art, science, and local history. 

We especially loved the Smithsonian Arctic Studies Center, which features powerful Native Alaskan artifacts and perspectives, and the hands-on Discovery Center, which is great for curious minds of all ages. It’s a great way to add depth to everything you’ve seen outdoors!

Option 2: Hike on Matanuska Glacier

If you’re craving a full-day adventure deep in Alaska’s backcountry, this Matanuska Glacier hike is the one to do. The tour runs from 8 am to around 3:30 pm with a convenient meeting location right at the Dena’ina Convention Center—so you won’t have to scramble to get there in the morning.

We had no idea how to even begin planning a safe glacier hike on our own, so joining this small-group guided trek took all the stress out of the equation. Our guide, Jet, was knowledgeable, easygoing, and clearly knew the backroads and the glacier terrain like the back of his hand. He drove us out to the Matanuska Valley, where we explored glacier-carved landscapes, hidden viewpoints, and even spotted wildlife like moose along the way.

The real magic, though, came when we stepped out onto the blue glacier ice itself. With crampons, helmets, and safety gear provided, the hike felt adventurous but totally doable, even for beginners. 

We explored glacial lakes, hanging ice formations, and even drank fresh glacier water straight from the source. Jet also offered impromptu photography tips that seriously leveled up our shots. Some of our favorite photos from the entire trip were taken during this tour!

We returned to Anchorage with tired legs, full camera rolls, and a huge appreciation for the raw, wild beauty just beyond the city.

Reserve your glacier trek here and get FREE 24-hour cancellation!

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.

Related Read: Looking for even more ideas? Check out our guide to the 10 best things to do in Anchorage here, packed with unforgettable local experiences.

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 Stuido 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!

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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