Every year, you dream of exploring beautiful, adventurous destinations. Why not make 2025 the year you actually book a memorable vacation? And while you're scouring the globe for that perfect, bucket-list trip, make sure you add Anchorage, Alaska to the top of your list.
Teeming with wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and thrilling adventures, not to mention a vibrant city scene rife with delicious food and activities, Anchorage is your gateway to the wild U.S. Need more convincing? Here are five reasons you should visit Anchorage in 2025.
Nature
Let's start with the obvious — Anchorage is the perfect place to experience tons of incredible natural landscapes. And you have your pick when it comes to exploring them. Lace up your boots and discover over 280 miles of maintained trails in Chugach State Park, from a leisurely walk to Thunder Bird Falls to summitting the popular Flattop Mountain. If hiking's not your bag, book a helicopter tour over one of the many nearby glaciers, or get up close and personal on a kayaking adventure. The opportunities abound for getting out and connecting with the great outdoors.
Alaska Native Cultures
Alaska has some of the richest native traditions in the nation, and you can learn more about this living heritage at the Alaska Native Heritage Center. Recently remodeled, this cultural center offers museum exhibits, demonstrations, and experiences. Go even deeper with Blueberry Tours, an intimate private tour led by an Indigenous guide sharing traditional Alaska culture and contemporary life alongside the area's most popular sights. Alaska Art Alliance’s downtown workshop and gallery is an under-the-radar spot for traditional crafts from across Alaska.
City Scene
If you crave the comforts of city life after a long day of exploring the great outdoors, have no fear. Basing yourself in Anchorage allows you to enjoy all the trappings of a culturally-rich city. Explore its mouthwatering dining scene with myriad restaurants serving all kinds of cuisine. Stop by the Anchorage Museum for their latest exhibit, or check out one of many musical and cultural events that occur throughout the year.
Aurora Views
Of course, no list about Anchorage is complete without mentioning the northern lights. While this solar show reaches its peak during the winter, if you book your trip during the shoulder spring and fall seasons you'll have an increased chance of seeing those swirling purple, green, and yellow lights. There are numerous places to catch sight of the show, or you can book a northern lights tour to get the best insider viewing spots.
New Updates and Openings
There's always something happening in Anchorage, from festivals and events to new hotel remodels and tours. And we're not the only ones noticing — numerous airlines have introduced new flight connections to Anchorage, meaning more people can experience everything this city has to offer. New hotels, like the Snob Hollow Inn, are opening, while familiar favorites, including the Hotel Captain Cook, Wildbirch Hotel, Hilton Anchorage Alyeska Resort, and Highliner Hotel have unveiled new remodels to welcome the visitors.
Take advantage of brand-new tours and experiences too, like Bird TLC’s Ambassador Bird Meet and Greet, Freewheel Tours’ public mural trip by e-bike, and White Raven’s sweet city tour — complete with chocolate tastings. Or meet the Anchorage Zoo's newest polar bear pal. Don't waste another moment — book your Anchorage trip today and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.
Ready to go now? Visit Anchorage is your go-to resource for planning the ultimate Alaskan vacation. Adventure awaits!
Feature Image Credit: Ralph Kristopher
