Top 5 Things to Do in Anchorage, Alaska
If you arrive in Alaska more than a full day before taking off for Tordrillo Mountain Lodge, you may as well explore the local scene. To familiarize you with the area, we’ve put together this list of 5 things to do in Anchorage, Alaska.
Note: All of these places are within walking or shuttle distance from the Hotel Captain Cook.
1. Explore Kincaid Park
Kincaid Park Coastline Photo: Paxson Woelber
Perched on the shores of the Cook Inlet, rent a pair of cross country skis or bike, depending on the season, from Arctic Cycles and follow the Coastal Trail while stopping at one of the picnic shelters to take in the scenery. There is also a disc golf course and outdoor concert area if you’re looking for something more leisurely.
2. Hike Flattop Trail
Flattop Mountain Anchorage. Photo: DanTerzian17
A somewhat moderate to difficult hike, Flattop Trail is three miles round-trip with several mild switch backs and a few steep pitches. It’s said to be the “most hiked trail in Alaska” because of the 360-degree views of Anchorage, Cook Inlet and the Alaska Range. Watch the sunset over Cook Inlet from the top of Flattop Mountain before descending with a head lamp. If you choose to do this hike in fall, winter or early spring, be sure to use crampons and watch for ice.
3. Visit the local watering holes
Treat yourself to oysters and champagne at the Bubbly Mermaid Oyster Bar. Another Anchorage favorite is F Street Station, known locally as “The Pilot Bar” because of its popularity among commercial and independent bush pilots. It’s a fun place to rub shoulders with regulars and serves some mean beer-battered halibut. If you’re craving vino, visit Crush Wine Bistro & Cellar. Arguably, it has the best wine selection in Anchorage with delicious small plates in a relaxing atmosphere.
4. Pamper yourself at the Sheraton Ice Spa
Now guys, you don’t have to be a woman to enjoy a relaxing yet rejuvenating day at the spa. You can skip the facials – although we don’t discourage them – and go for the “Men’s Defense,” a therapeutic massage followed by a sports pedicure and haircut. Manly enough for you? Our recommendation: the Neck, Back and Shoulder Massage. Take 25 minutes to loosen your muscles for plenty of heli skiing, snowboarding and fishing.
5. Hang back at the luxurious Hotel Captain Cook
Crow’s Nest restaurant and bar. Photo: Hotel Captain Cook
If you don’t have much time to spend in Anchorage or don’t feel like venturing out, then climb to the Crow’s Nest, the Captain’s newest restaurant. Sip a fine wine or martini from their extensive beverage menu and pair it with French or New American dishes while dreaming about your week ahead in the Tordrillo Mountains.
