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Top 5 Reasons to Visit Anchorage This Summer

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Anchorage This Summer

Planning another beach vacation this summer? Swap sand and surf for the adventure of “The Last Frontier” – Anchorage, Alaska.

With nonstop Sun Country flights from Minneapolis/St. Paul to Anchorage, here are five compelling reasons to make it your summer destination:

Unique Culinary Experiences

Anchorage is an underrated foodie haven. Start with reindeer sausage at Snow City Café, a beloved all-day breakfast spot, or grab one to-go from Tia’s Gourmet Sausages downtown (pro tip: pair it with pineapple sauce like a local). Seafood lovers will appreciate king crab, halibut, and salmon paired with craft brews at Humpy’s Great Alaskan Alehouse. Pizza enthusiasts, add Alaskan-style pies from Moose’s Tooth Pub and Pizzeria to your list – it’s ranked among America’s best by Thrillist.

Must-Try: Salmon in any form (burger, sandwich, tacos, po’boy, and more)

Abundant Wildlife Encounters

Animal lovers thrive in Anchorage. Spot moose in the wild or visit the Alaska Zoo and Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. Drive 45 minutes to Turnagain Arm for beluga whales (bring binoculars), with chances to see Dall sheep and bald eagles along this scenic route. Visit Anchorage notes Alaska is the only U.S. state home to black, brown, and polar bears – venture beyond the city for wild sightings.

Must-See: Beluga whales at Beluga Point in Turnagain Arm

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Anchorage This Summer

Scenic Trails and Glaciers

Anchorage offers trails for all levels. The beginner-friendly Byron Glacier Trail leads to Portage Valley and stunning Portage Glacier views. Families love the Eagle River Nature Center (40 minutes from downtown), a gateway to Chugach State Park for immersive Alaskan wilderness experiences.

Must-Hike: Byron Glacier Trail

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Anchorage This Summer

Endless Summer Sunlight

Maximize your days with nearly 19 hours of daylight around the summer solstice. Rent a bike for the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, book a flightseeing tour over Anchorage, join a farm and food tour, or browse downtown markets and craft kiosks.

Must-Do: Experience the midnight sun

Iconic Alaska Railroad Journeys

For day trips, board the Alaska Railroad’s Coastal Classic from Anchorage through Turnagain Arm and Spencer Glacier to Seward. Enjoy a seven-hour layover to explore Kenai Fjords National Park and spot whales at Lowell Point on the Kenai Peninsula, returning in time for Anchorage nightlife. Longer routes reach Fairbanks and Denali National Park.

Must-Ride: Coastal Classic to Seward

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Anchorage This Summer
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