The Perfect First-Timer Itinerary for 3 Days in Anchorage

• Focus on walkable downtown cultural hubs, nearby glacier day trips, and local wildlife viewing to maximize your limited time.
• Base your travel group in a central downtown location to eliminate the need for a rental car on your first day of sightseeing.
• Plan your outdoor excursions during the morning hours to take full advantage of daylight and active wildlife patterns.

If you’re an Anchorage, Alaska, first-time visitor, the secret to an amazing trip is blending the rugged beauty of our surrounding wilderness with the vibrant culture of our city center. Our team of locals at The Historic Anchorage Hotel has put together an Anchorage itinerary that fits plenty of local highlights into just three days.

Day 1: Walkable Downtown and Cultural Heritage

To make the most of 3 days in Anchorage, Alaska, spend your first day enjoying the incredible walkability of the city center. Many of the city’s highlights are fully walkable, right from the front doors of The Historic Anchorage Hotel:

• Morning: Start your day with our complimentary full breakfast buffet before walking just two blocks to the local visitor hubs. Explore the nearby local shops to pick up unique gifts and gear.
• Afternoon: Take a self-guided historic mural walk through downtown to view local artwork and large street murals celebrating our heritage. You can easily stroll into our gift shop, Grizzly’s Gifts, along with an assortment of other locally owned art galleries and coffee shops for some retail therapy.
• Evening: Enjoy a fresh seafood dinner at one of the premier restaurants in downtown Anchorage, all located within a short walk from your plush bed.

Day 2: Outdoor Adventures and Local Wildlife

Your second day is focused on exploring the wild terrain that surrounds our urban center, making it a critical part of any comprehensive Anchorage itinerary. After enjoying a complimentary breakfast at our hotel, you’re ready for an adventurous day ahead:

• Morning: Head out early to Chugach State Park, located just a short drive from downtown. Enjoy a morning hike up Flattop Mountain to catch panoramic views of the city and Cook Inlet.
• Afternoon: Join a guided wildlife viewing tour or head down to Potter Marsh to view migratory birds, wild moose, and local wildlife from the safety of the boardwalks.
• Evening: Return downtown to relax in our lobby or in your comfortable room before heading out to experience local dining or enjoy a nightcap at one of the iconic downtown bars.

Day 3: Glacier Day Trips and Departures

Wondering what to do in Anchorage, Alaska on your final day? We suggest heading south along the scenic Turnagain Arm for an unforgettable glacier experience. It’s an easy trip from our hotel, so you can get out as early as possible:

• Morning: Drive south to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center to see bears, muskoxen, and wood bison up close in a safe environment.
• Afternoon: Head to nearby Whittier for an unforgettable glacier excursion with Phillips Cruises & Tours. Journey through the pristine waters of Prince William Sound to see towering tidewater glaciers up close. Plus, as a guest of our hotel, you’ll receive an exclusive discount on your cruise booking!
• Evening: Return to the hotel to retrieve your luggage from our 24-hour concierge and prepare for your departure from Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, located just six miles away.

Where to Stay in Anchorage, AK

The Historic Anchorage Hotel places you right in the heart of the action, serving as the perfect walkable launchpad for your daily adventures. We first opened our doors back in 1916, and today our property is proudly listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Explore our elegant Anchorage accommodations to choose the perfect room for your stay. You can also view our exclusive Anchorage hotel specials and packages to maximize your travel budget.

Travel Tips for Your Stay

To ensure a seamless Anchorage 3-day trip, keep these practical tips in mind:

• Late Arrivals: If your flight lands late, our 24-hour desk is ready to welcome you, and we are located just less than a quarter-mile from the Alaska Railroad Depot for guests arriving by train.
• Early Departures: Grab a hot coffee in our lobby before heading out, and utilize our express checkout services to keep your schedule on track.

Book your 3-day trip today and secure your stay in downtown Anchorage to experience the ultimate blend of history and modern comfort.

Image author: Teri Hendricks