But Downtown is also the best place to stay in Anchorage for nightlife. In the morning, a very good breakfast is waiting for you. How does that sound? Alyeska Resort. As was mentioned there are bike rental places downtown as well. And Wonder Park, which is totally residential but just has a great name. Midtown - best area for families Frequently asked questions about Anchorage Near Ted Stevens International Airport Where to stay in other cities At night you should check out the cool pubs and try different kinds of beers to really get into the local spirit. We are going on on a small group adventure tour of the Kenai peninsula, so their van will pick us up in the city. This excursion takes about 12 hours, so that will take the whole day, but its well worth it! Weve tested countless packs over the years, and now weve found our absolute favourite: the nomad-approved Nomatic Travel Bag. There are parks all around here, for wandering, for picnics, or for whatever. One of the biggest decisions youll face planning for your Alaska Itinerary is how youre going to get around. Your laptop deserves a proper pack, and we know a good few! Join the Coastal Trail walk at Elderberry Park. Multilingual staff can assist with reservations or dining recommendations, and an express check-in facility is provided for guest convenience. Here you will also find some great outlets with discounted outdoor gear and a great indoor farmers market. This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. If you are into nightlife you will find so many lively bars in Downtown Anchorage so make sure to allow some time for bar-hopping after dinner! And if youve never used Airbnb, this might be a good area to give it a shot! What can I do in the evening in Anchorage? The train depot is here in Downtown, so its perfectly situated for day trips on the scenic railway. This 4-star hotel provides a beauty centre, facial treatments and body treatments. North Pole, Alaska! Miles: 1082. Driving time: 20 hours, 14 minutes. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-83540232', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');car and without the public bus system operating the best place to stay is downtown. A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic booooring. Keep your eyes peeled for the Wells Fargo Museum too. Explore by bike. Historic Anchorage Hotel and Copper Whale Inn are the best boutique hotels in Anchorage. Anchorage.net is the official source for Anchorage, Alaska and Southcentral Alaska travel information on everything from outdoor adventures to metropolitan amenities. TOP 5 Areas Where to Stay in Anchorage HOTEL GUIDE - Miss Tourist We're planning on doing Seward area for a couple days. Or how about Scenic Foothills, where theyre giving away their drawcard in their title? Spend an afternoon at the Wells Fargo Museum to Alaskan culture. Not bad when its permanent population is less than 750,000! What Matters When Choosing an Anchorage Hotel? - ALASKA.ORG Theres also some excellent cafes, for something to keep your hands warm on those colder days. We'd like a vacation, not a whirlwind. Compared to the other areas of Anchorage, in Spenard, you will be able to find more affordable accommodation options. Your Nuclear Attack Map for 2023 - mirasafety.com Perk yourself up at the excellently named Common Grounds Espresso! This beautiful Airbnb is set in nature surrounded by beautiful trees with 3 bedrooms, a fully furnished kitchen, and private parking. Check out their competition at the less intimidatingly named Mooses Tooth Pub! For those wishing to dine out during their stay at this 3-star hotel, there are a selection of eateries situated nearby. The famous Anchorage Museum and Alaska railroad are within walking distance, and Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport is just a 15 minutes drive. 2,951 Reviews . The Anchorage to Fairbanks Loop Route Map. Its the coolest area to stay in Anchorage because its got a more relaxed atmosphere than the Downtown area, while still being close enough that you can visit when you want. Once youve worn yourself out on the natural features of the area, you can head back into town for a peaceful dinner. This area is a great place to stay in Anchorage on a budget and also for those who want to stay close to the airport. This newly remodeled 800-square-foot apartment apartment/guest suite is comfortable and cozy. If youve never used AirBNB before, you can book through this link for $65 off your first trip! To me, to be up here without a car is tough, including Anchorage. This town has a grocery store and at least five restaurants to choose from. Where to Stay in Anchorage without a car. This trail can be hiked or biked, so the time the 11 miles will take varies greatly. Its the easiest area to access for travelers and also sits on the main north-south highway ready to take you whichever way you choose. Where to Stay in Anchorage without a car - Cruise Critic Comfort Inn Ship Creek. How do I find authentic Alaska Native art? Anchorage has a lot of fun street art. Anchorage, AK . Alaska (AK) Anchorage. Head to the Zoo a wee way south but the closest of our picks. If you are visiting Anchorage for the first time, Anchorage Downtown is the best place to stay. The best option to do this if you dont have a car is to do the 26 Glacier Cruise in Whittier. I hope you enjoyed reading this city tour. Besides, Aptel offers luggage deposit service. Look no further than this amazing Airbnb. Float-planes, an unusual sight for most people, are commonplace here. Nestled in beautiful nature, this hotel offers a free airport shuttle, comfortable rooms, and an indoor swimming pool, Located near Anchorage University, My Place Hotel Anchorage AK has spacious rooms, a free airport shuttle, and free parking, This Airbnb offers rooms with amazing mountains view, private parking, and a nice terrace making it a great stay in Anchorage. Youre connected. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. Denali Road Trip From Anchorage Day 1 Make the 4 hours, 237-mile drive from Anchorage to Denali courtesy of AK-3 N. Once you're settled, visit the National Park's dog kennels via shuttle to watch a sled dog show. There is something here for all tastes! Arctic Adventure Hostel is one of our favourites in Anchorage but theyre not taking guests right now. Make sure to get to the train depot early and not miss your train! Between trips abroad and trips across his own backyard through the rugged wilds of Canada and the USA, he has spent the better part of the last decade always being somewhere. Bent Prop Inn is one of our favourites in Anchorage but theyre not taking guests right now. I've always thought that would be fun. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-68027079', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');rent a car and drive there why not just add two days to the contract. The hotel provides a golf course, a concierge and luggage storage. Valdez has a lot to offer for adventure seekers. But I think its silly to retrace your steps. Best Areas to Stay in Anchorage, Alaska - Best Districts A small community-driven hostel run by outdoor enthusiasts. Hotels are not exactly cheap there so booking something as much in advance as you can is a smart move! We suggestavoiding the Mountain View neighborhood. Just keep an eye out for those bears! Alaska Zoo, too, is nearby. Once youre finished, you can drive an hour and 44 minutes over to Girdwoods Alyeska Resort, where youll be able to enjoy a luxurious meal and snowy ski slopes. Never had a problem with them. One of the best things to do in Alaska is take a glacier and wildlife cruise and you dont want to miss out on this wonderful tour. Spenard Hostel International is one of our favourites in Anchorage but theyre not taking guests right now. In the afternoon, make your way over to Seward. Challenge yourself to complete the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-83539459', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Anchorage, without a long drive to Denali, on your last day. The town square has a lovely flower garden worth stopping by to see. Best Place To Stay In Anchorage Without A Car Bootleggers Cove is in the northwestern corner of the main Anchorage town, up by Downtown and over a little. Before we start, I just want to remind you that in order to get better deals on hotels and secure your place, do not forget to make a reservation in advance. You can go on hiking tours, take a tour to see glaciers, and enjoy walks in the beautiful parks. # 29 Best Value of 237 places to stay in Anchorage. That being said, if you like a hotel in another area I say go for it as distances between attractions are not too far in Anchorage. Springhill Suites features a nice restaurant, rooms with mountains view, a fitness center, and an indoor swimming pool, This pet-friendly hotel has modern rooms, a free airport shuttle, a good breakfast, and free parking, This beautiful Airbnb has comfortable rooms, a fully furnished kitchen, free parking, and free wifi. A Few Days in Anchorage Without a Car - Anchorage Forum. You can go on a walk to Lake Hood, enjoy beautiful nature at Earthquake Park, and challenge yourself on the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. Youll need it, too. They also have the odd concert as well, if you happen to be there on the right night! SafetyWing is convenient, cheap, and trouble-free Insurance was never this easy! In Downtown Anchorage, you will be able to find nice accommodation options for all budgets. The museums are great for rainy days. As you know, the 4th is Labor Day which is probably why you're having a hard time finding a (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? A word of warning to cautious parents: though Anchorage is a very safe city for its size, there are some temporary residents who may give you a bit of a fright. After Delta Junction, youll be looking at three hours of driving until Wrangell-St. Elias. Were not sure if theyre closed for good but we hope theyll come back soon. driving alaska highway in december or january 10 replies Anchorage Hotels and Places to Stay The Hotel Captain Cook 2,439 Reviews View Hotel Anchorage, AK Alyeska Resort 2,950 Reviews View Hotel Girdwood, Anchorage Downtown Anchorage where to stay in Anchorage for the first time2. Bootleggers Cove where to stay in Anchorage for sightseeing, The 32 Absolute Best Places to Stay in Banff for All Budgets, 8 Things you Need to Know Before Renting a Car in Canada, Your Ultimate Guide for Where to Stay in Oahu, Hawaii, Best Hotels for All Budgets to Stay on Big Island, Hawaii, Top 5 Neighborhoods to Stay in Vancouver, Canada, An Honest Guide for Where to Stay in Seattle, USA, Everything You Need to Know About Hotels in Portland, Oregon, Catch a show at Alaska Center for the Performing Arts, Head to the National Parks Office to find out about the incredible nature of this Alaska, See an exhibition at Anchorage William A. Egan Civic & Convention Center, Head to the Alaska Native Heritage Center to explore the regions culture, Go for a walk to Lake Hood and check out scenic views, Eat authentic Korean food at one of the many restaurants, Drive one of the most incredible highways in the state down the Turnagain Arm, Visit the Alaska Public Lands Information Center, Go for a walk in the Valley of the Moon Park, Check out an indie film at the Bear Tooth Theatrepub, Go for a stroll at Charles W. Smith Memorial Park, Enjoy family time at Cuddy Family Midtown Park, Have a nice meal and drink at Bear Paw Bar & Grill, Go for dinner at Silk Restaurant & Sushi Bar. Alternatively, you may use, https://www.alaskarailroad.com/travel-planning/destinations/spencer-glacier-whistle-stop. Downtown is just where youd think it would be, right in the middle of the busiest part of the city. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. If the mountain is out, you can see it from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Its just that easy. Its not in Midtown itself, but youre the closest to it of any of our chosen neighbourhoods. Take a stroll for water views, mountain vistas, and even a look at urban salmon fishing. Day 3 Morning My main recommendation is to not leave Girdwood without visiting Virgin Creek Falls! Where to Stay in Anchorage - A Guide to the Great City of Alaska The Best Areas to Stay in Anchorage, Alaska 1. I don't know if it's feasible to try and go there without a car. There are things you can see and do here that would be nigh on impossible in most other places. - Rent some bikes and ride the Tony Knowles coastal trail. This easy and short 5-minute hike will take you to Alaskas most scenic moss-blanketed waterfall. You'll also be within walking distance of the train depot and coastal trail, as well as the city's terrific shops and restaurants. The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is very popular, beautiful views and many folks enjoy biking it. Were not sure if theyre closed for good but we hope theyll come back soon. Your email address will not be published. Alternatively, you can spend your early morning hiking around Portage Glacier before getting lunch in town. Grab a quick dinner at one of many, many food chain outlets. By staying in North Star you will be very close to the city center while at the same time, have a chance to experience life like a local. Girdwood was initially known as Glacier City for the frozen behemoths that border its mountains. For those who are having difficulty picking among the many hotel options, let me sum up. A Few Days in Anchorage Without a Car - Anchorage Forum ), https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBLtUaekyX5H6NLUgwQBD7g. If youre looking for adventure for the evenings, there is plenty to choose from. What can I do in Alaska during a spring visit? They have a very convenient location in Mid-town Anchorage! Keep in mind one challenge travelers face everywhere this year: Car rentals are in short supply. It's free to everyone during hospital's normal visitng hours. Search places to stay in Alaska - Booking.com If you do have time to stay in Seward for an extra day, make sure to book a cruise to the Kenai Fjords! If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. What else might be interesting when carless? Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska and is sandwiched between nature with the Chugach Mountains Range to the east, Cook Inlet to the west, and the Turnagain Arm to the south. Midtownis the best area to stay in Anchorage. With the super quite and safe location, this will feel like a real home away from home! From here, youll be able to look out over the Pacific Ocean and whale watch. Theres also the famous Tony Knowles Coastal Trail that runs around the edge of Spenard. If youre going to spend more than a day in Denali National Park, or if youre a solo traveler, you might save money by taking the Alaska Railroad instead of renting a car. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Some of the best hotels here are the Sheraton Anchorage Hotel and the Historic Anchorage Hotel. Catch a bus. The front-desk staff, Jennifer, was very kind to help us in the morning on Aug. 2 when we first checked out. Migrating birds visit in all seasons, which makes this a great year-round destination. Anchorage is in general a safe city but you can avoid walking at night in the Fairview and Mountain View areas. You cannot drive in most of Denali National Park so your expensive rental car will be parked for the days you travel into the park. Where is the best bear viewing in Alaska? Keep an eye out for wildlife I saw lots of moose just off the road in this part of the state. Here is a map about where to stay in Anchorage with the 5 best areas I will be talking about in this travel guide so you can easily visualize them: Downtown Anchorage is the heart of the city and is where you will find the main attractions. With a car, you can stop anywhere you want for as long as you want, and its easier to carry food with you and get to the grocery store. he Voyager Inn provides spacious rooms equipped with cable/satellite channels, a microwave and tea and coffee making facilities. They are just walking distance to stores, and restaurants. Boasting a swimming pool and a Jacuzzi, Embassy Suites Anchorage provides comfortable accommodation. If you are renting a car, do not attempt to do a one way road trip, this will cost an additional $800-$1000 for a one way rental in Alaska . Theres a lot to see if you continue heading southeast and loop back around to Anchorage via Routes 2 & 4. This comfortable 1-star hotel in Anchorage offers complimentary Wi-Fi, as well as a swimming pool and a 24-hour reception. Have a nice lunch break then go to Westchester Lagoon Nature Trail to enjoy some of the most beautiful nature in the city. Weve chosen five of Anchorages best areas to stay in, whether youre riding solo or with a family in tow, whether youre here for the first time or for a good time. Historic Anchorage Hotel and Copper Whale Inn are the best boutique hotels in Anchorage. I have already found the best 4 ones for you but in order not to miss them, make sure to make your booking in advance. The second option is to drive to Portage Lake and take a boat tour to Portage Glacier. .path-1{fill:#333;}.path-2{fill:#fff;} : https://www.alaskarailroad.com/travel-planning/destinations/spencer-glacier-whistle-stop. Close distance to the University of Alaska, the Consortium Library, restaurants and the New Saguya Market, this private renovated studio is ideal for those who want to explore the area later during the day and still be able to go walk home. Downtown bike rental is good. April 23, 2021. Their focus is creating a welcoming atmosphere for those visiting Alaska on a budget. . Recommended Posts. If you are around in the winter, then check out the town square for ice skating and twinkle lights. Finally, its home to the Bear Tooth Theatrepub, which puts on indie movies while serving microbrews. We are in our 50s, like to walk, and enjoy a variety of activities. Staying here is absolutely fine, but its got a reputation for being a bit sketchy towards the late hours. Due to proximity to the main attractions, shops, and restaurants Anchorage Downtown is the best area to stay without a car in Anchorage. Its the best place to stay in Anchorage for your first time here as its looking out at the scenic territory of the river. Where To Stay In Anchorage, Alaska - Updated 2023 | Trip101 more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. Happy exploring! The first four days of the trip the car was almost triple what is was for the rest. Ted Stevens International Airport and downtown Anchorage are a short drive and with its spacious rooms and great amenities, it has amazing value for money making it a great place to stay in Anchorage on a budget. It is actually known to have a large number of Korean and American restaurants as well as trendy breakfast spots and indi theatre! Time needed: 7-10 days minimum. The hotel has 14 rooms and has been recently refurbished. Located minutes away from Anchorage Museum, Delaney Park, restaurants, Visitors Center, Convention Center and the coastal trail, its perfect to explore the surroundings. However, if you would like to stay in a more affordable area you can pick hotels from Spenard. The Greetings from Alaska mural is located on 5th and Fairbanks. There are several properties in this area you can book. (Our return flight would be the JetBlue redeye that leaves around 1:00am.). PRO TIP: Because this part of the state is more remote, its great for large animals. Alternatively, you may use, Holiday Inn Express Anchorage, an IHG Hotel, Comfort Suites Anchorage International Airport. From downtown, the paved Tony Knowles Coastal Trail runs for 11 miles along the Cook Inlet coast, connecting to the Chester Creek Trail before eventually ending in Kincaid Park: Rent a bike from a downtown shop, hit the Coastal Trail at Elderberry Park (at the western end of 5th Avenue), then spend a day visiting iconic Anchorage destinations like Westchester Lagoon, Earthquake Park, and Point Woronzof, all connected by trail to the heart of the city.