So you’re planning a trip to Anchorage, huh? Maybe it’s been on your bucket list forever, or maybe someone casually mentioned Alaska and now you’ve been spiraling through Instagram reels of glaciers and grizzly bears for three hours straight (no judgment, we’ve all been there).
Here’s the thing—everyone and their cousin will tell you to do the same stuff: visit a glacier, ride a scenic train, and hit the downtown souvenir shops. And while, yes, all of that is super cool (I mean, glaciers! Come on!), there’s so much more to Anchorage if you just peek behind the “Top 10 Things to Do” lists.
I spent a week there thinking I’d check the boxes and move on, but somewhere between a muddy trail and a steaming cup of local coffee, I kinda fell in love with this place. It’s not just about the big sights—it’s the weird little in-between moments, the places you didn’t plan on finding, and the fact that moose just casually stroll through neighborhoods like they pay rent.
So let me take you on a little journey: here’s what to do in Anchorage besides the usual touristy stuff. Buckle up—this is the real good stuff.
Hop on an Anchorage ATV Tour (Yes, You’ll Get Muddy—and Love It)
Okay, listen. I didn’t think I was an “ATV person.” I mean, I like nature, but I also like clean clothes and staying upright. But my friend booked us an Anchorage ATV tour and I thought, why not? When in Alaska, right?
Best. Decision. Ever.
It was bumpy, it was wild, it was full of those jaw-dropping “is this real life?” views. We zipped through forest trails, splashed through icy puddles, and even stopped at this overlook where you could see mountains and water and a bald eagle all at once. Alaska really doesn’t mess around.
If you’re worried about not being adventurous enough, don’t be. You don’t need to be some kind of rugged mountain person to do this. The guides are super helpful, and they go at a pace that fits the group. Just wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty (and trust me, you will get dirty). And bring gloves, even in summer—it can get chilly up in the hills.
Anchorage ATV tours are seriously one of the most underrated things to do in the area, and they give you a whole different perspective of Alaska—one you just can’t get from a bus window.
Check Out Local Coffee Shops (Alaska Is Caffeinated, Y’all)
Let me paint you a picture: It’s 8 AM, you’ve just come back from watching the sun almost rise because Anchorage summer light is confusing, and you’re craving something warm, comforting, and preferably served in a cozy mug by someone wearing flannel.
Enter Anchorage’s coffee scene.
This city runs on caffeine, and it shows. The local coffee shops are charming, cozy, and full of personality. I found one inside what looked like an old garage that had turned into the cutest little espresso heaven. Another one had a wall of books and a couch that practically swallowed you whole.
Most places have unique drinks with Alaskan twists—think birch syrup lattes or moose-shaped cookies. And the best part? Everyone’s just chill. There’s no rush, no pressure to Instagram your latte art (though you totally should, because wow).
If you’re doing early morning activities like hiking, glacier tours, or even—you guessed it—another ATV ride, grabbing a local coffee is the perfect start to the day.
Thrift or Vintage Shop Like a Local
Anchorage thrifting is lowkey amazing. I know that’s not something you’d expect to hear about Alaska, but here we are.
There’s something about browsing a secondhand store in a new place that makes you feel like you’re getting to know the city in a deeper way. The vintage pieces, the retro postcards, the Alaskan sweaters that have clearly seen a few winters—it’s like flipping through the city’s scrapbook.
One place I went into had a full wall of old snowshoes and a bin of flannels for under $10. I may or may not have walked out with a ridiculously soft hoodie that says “Alaska: The Last Frontier” in faded bubble letters. It’s my favorite thing now.
So if you’re the type who loves a good bargain, or just wants a souvenir that’s not mass-produced, hit up a local thrift shop. You might find something way cooler than a magnet.
Walk the Coastal Trail — But Start from a Local Favorite Spot
The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is technically a “touristy” thing, but hear me out: it’s all about how you do it.
Instead of starting at the crowded downtown section, ask a local where they enter. I got a tip to start from Westchester Lagoon, and oh my gosh, game changer. Way fewer people, tons of birds (bring binoculars if that’s your thing), and gorgeous views that feel almost secret.
You can walk, bike, or rollerblade if you’re feeling ambitious. Bring snacks, take your time, and maybe pack a little blanket if you want to have an impromptu picnic with a view. I saw a guy playing a harmonica by the water and a kid walking a cat on a leash. Anchorage is a vibe, y’all.
Go Moose-Spotting (Not as Weird as It Sounds)
Okay, so here’s the deal: moose are everywhere. I saw one walking through a neighborhood like he was on his way to brunch. Another one was just chilling in a parking lot like, “What’s up?”
It might sound silly, but going moose-spotting kind of became my favorite thing to do. No tour required—just drive or walk around early in the morning or at sunset, especially near forested areas or parks. Kincaid Park is a good bet. And trust me, when you see your first one, you’ll totally get why this is a thing.
Just don’t get too close. Moose are cute but massive, and they’re not exactly into selfies.
Pop Into a Bookstore or Local Artist Co-op
If you need a break from the outdoors (or the weather just isn’t cooperating), pop into one of Anchorage’s indie bookstores or artist co-ops. I wandered into one that had shelves of local authors, hand-bound journals, and these dreamy watercolors of Alaska landscapes. I ended up buying a postcard that I still haven’t mailed because I love it too much.
There’s something grounding about flipping through books or handmade goods in a place like this. It’s a reminder that yes, Alaska is wild and untamed, but it’s also full of people creating, dreaming, and telling stories.
Plus, it’s a great way to support local businesses. Win-win.
Eat Like a Local—But Keep It Casual
You’re not gonna leave without trying reindeer sausage at least once, right? I tried it on a hot dog with cream cheese and grilled onions (don’t knock it till you try it). But beyond that, Anchorage has a surprisingly good food scene that goes way beyond seafood platters and salmon everything.
I found this little spot serving Thai food that blew my mind, and there was a taco truck with smoked halibut tacos that I’m still thinking about. The food scene here is full of surprises, and the best places often aren’t the ones with big signs and fancy menus.
Ask someone at your hotel or the barista at that adorable coffee shop where they like to eat. Locals know what’s up.
Final Thoughts
Anchorage surprised me. I came for the glaciers and Instagram moments, but I stayed for the offbeat thrift shops, cozy coffee corners, and the feeling of standing in the middle of a trail with muddy jeans, wind in my face, and a view so beautiful it almost didn’t look real.
So yeah, do the big stuff. Go see the glaciers and ride the train. But also give yourself permission to wander, to explore the side streets, to take the ATV tour even if you’re not “outdoorsy,” and to stop at that random cafe because the sign made you smile.
Anchorage has layers—and if you take the time to peel them back, I promise you’ll find something unforgettable. And hey, if you’ve already been and have a hidden gem I missed? Drop it in the comments—I’m always down for round two.
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