12 Free Things To Do In Anchorage, Alaska

Nestled in the heart of Alaska, Anchorage offers a surreal and breathtaking experience with its majestic mountains and picturesque waterways. While there are plenty of activities to enjoy, you don't need to break the bank to make the most of your visit. There are plenty of free things to do in Anchorage that will leave you in awe of this stunning destination. In this article, we'll show you 12 fantastic free activities that will give you a taste of the local culture and natural beauty of Anchorage. So, are you ready to explore Anchorage without spending a cent? Let's get into it!

Visit the Anchorage Museum

Are you looking for something to do in Anchorage that won't cost you a dime? Look no further than the Anchorage Museum!

Located in downtown Anchorage, the Anchorage Museum is a world-class museum that is dedicated to showcasing the rich history and culture of Alaska. The museum is home to more than 20,000 works of art and artifacts, as well as numerous exhibits that explore the state's natural, cultural, and historical heritage.

One of the best things about the Anchorage Museum is that it offers free admission to Alaska residents every day. If you're not an Alaska resident, don't worry – the museum also offers free admission on the first Friday of every month.

So, what can you expect to see at the Anchorage Museum? Well, for starters, there are numerous exhibits that explore the state's indigenous cultures. These exhibits include traditional Native Alaskan clothing, tools, and art, as well as interactive displays that allow visitors to learn more about the cultures of Alaska's First Peoples.

In addition to the indigenous exhibits, the museum also has a vast collection of art and history exhibits. Visitors can explore the history of Anchorage and Alaska, learn more about the Alaska gold rush, and see a variety of modern and contemporary art from Alaska and around the world.

One of the most unique features of the Anchorage Museum is its planetarium. The Thomas Planetarium is a state-of-the-art facility that offers visitors a chance to explore the mysteries of the universe through multi-sensory exhibits and immersive shows.

The museum also has a beautiful atrium, which features a variety of plants, trees, and flowers that are native to Alaska. It's a beautiful space to relax and take in the natural beauty of the state.

Overall, the Anchorage Museum is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. And with free admission for Alaska residents and monthly free admission for everyone else, there's no reason not to check it out! So, make sure to add the Anchorage Museum to your itinerary – you won't regret it.

Hike the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail

If you're looking for a way to explore the natural beauty of Anchorage without breaking the bank, the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is the perfect option. This 11-mile trail offers breathtaking views of the coastline, mountains, and wildlife, and best of all, it's completely free to hike.

The trail begins downtown and winds its way along the coast, passing some of Anchorage's most iconic landmarks, including Kincaid Park and Earthquake Park. Along the way, you'll have ample opportunities to spot wildlife, including bald eagles, moose, and beluga whales.

One of the highlights of the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is the stunning view of Mount Susitna, also known as the Sleeping Lady. This peak looms majestically on the other side of Cook Inlet and offers an unforgettable backdrop for your hike.

The trail is well-maintained and easily accessible for hikers of all levels. If you're short on time, you can enjoy a shorter section of the trail by starting at one of the various access points along the way. Alternatively, you can make a day of it and hike the entire trail from end to end.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, be sure to bring plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen, as well as appropriate clothing and footwear for the weather conditions. Additionally, it's important to respect the natural environment and the wildlife you encounter along the way by staying on designated trails and keeping a safe distance.

Overall, hiking the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is a must-do experience for anyone visiting Anchorage. With its stunning scenery, wildlife sightings, and unbeatable price point, it's the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of Alaska without breaking the bank.

Explore the Alaska Native Heritage Center

Characteristic	Description
Name	Alaska Native Heritage Center
Type	Cultural institute in Anchorage, Alaska
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.6 / 1,295
Address	8800 Heritage Center Dr, Anchorage, AK 99504
Phone	(907) 330-8000
Hours	Monday - 9 AM–5 PM Tuesday - 9 AM–5 PM Wednesday - 9 AM–5 PM Thursday - 9 AM–5 PM Friday - 9 AM–5 PM Saturday - Closed Sunday(Easter) - Closed
Profiles

One of the best ways to explore the rich Alaska Native heritage of Anchorage is through a visit to the Alaska Native Heritage Center. Located just 10 miles east of downtown Anchorage, this cultural center offers a unique glimpse into the rich history and traditions of Alaska's native peoples.

The Alaska Native Heritage Center is situated on 26 acres of land, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. Visitors can explore six different native cultural groups, including the Athabascan, Yupik, Inupiaq, Tlingit, Haida, and Eyak. Each cultural area features authentic traditional homes, artifacts, and demonstrations of daily life, offering visitors a truly immersive experience.

Throughout the day, visitors can participate in a variety of interactive activities and demonstrations, such as traditional dance performances, skin-sewing demonstrations, and storytelling sessions. There are also educational exhibits highlighting important events and figures in Alaska native history, such as the introduction of reindeer herding in the early 20th century.

While admission to the Alaska Native Heritage Center is not free, there are a number of ways to save money on your visit. The center offers discounted rates for seniors, military personnel, and Alaska residents, as well as group discounts for parties of 10 or more. Additionally, visitors can take advantage of free shuttle service from downtown Anchorage, making the center easily accessible without the need for a car.

One of the best things about visiting the Alaska Native Heritage Center is the opportunity to learn about and appreciate the unique cultures and traditions of Alaska's native peoples. By immersing yourself in their way of life, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the beauty and richness of this incredible state.

Regardless of whether you're a local resident or a visitor from out of state, a trip to the Alaska Native Heritage Center is a must for anyone looking to explore the cultural heritage of Anchorage and the surrounding region. So why not plan your visit today, and experience the wonder and beauty of Alaska's native peoples firsthand?

Stroll through the Anchorage Market & Festival

As a visitor or resident of Anchorage, Alaska, there's a wonderful place to enjoy in the summer months that's completely free of charge. The Anchorage Market & Festival is a bustling marketplace where visitors can explore local artisans, food vendors, and outdoor entertainment.

The Anchorage Market & Festival is located in downtown Anchorage and operates every weekend throughout the summer months. Visitors can stroll through the market, taking in the sights, smells, and sounds of dozens of different vendors.

One of the highlights of the Anchorage Market & Festival is the opportunity to sample some of the best food in Anchorage. There are vendors selling everything from freshly caught salmon to Alaska-grown vegetables. There are also food trucks offering international cuisine, such as Korean BBQ and Mexican tacos.

If you're interested in shopping, the market offers plenty of opportunities to explore local artisans and craftspeople. There are vendors selling handmade jewelry, ceramics, and clothing. You can also find souvenirs and gifts that are unique to Alaska.

Another great aspect of the Anchorage Market & Festival is the entertainment. Throughout the day, there are local musicians, dancers, and performers that take to the stage to delight the crowds. There's always something going on, so it's worth checking out the schedule ahead of time.

Overall, a visit to the Anchorage Market & Festival is a great way to spend an afternoon in Anchorage. The market is free to attend, and there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy local food, handmade crafts, and live entertainment. Whether you're a resident or a visitor, a stroll through the Anchorage Market & Festival is a must-do during the summer months.

Watch the planes take off at Lake Hood Seaplane Base

If you're looking for a unique experience during your visit to Anchorage, Alaska, be sure to head to Lake Hood Seaplane Base. Not only is it the world's busiest seaplane base, but it also offers free anchorage to visitors. And while you're there, you can watch planes take off and land on the lake.

Lake Hood Seaplane Base is located just a few miles from downtown Anchorage, making it easily accessible to visitors. The base is situated on the shore of Lake Hood, which connects to nearby Spenard Lake. The waterways provide a perfect location for seaplanes to take off and land, and you'll see plenty of them during your visit.

One of the best things about Lake Hood Seaplane Base is that it's completely free to anchor your boat there. Whether you're traveling by yacht or small motorboat, you can park it in the designated anchorage area without having to pay anything. This makes it a great spot for travelers on a budget to spend an afternoon or even an entire day.

While you're at the base, you'll have the opportunity to watch planes of all shapes and sizes take off and land on the lake. Some of the planes are owned by local residents, while others are used for tourism and other purposes. You'll even see seaplanes taking off for remote destinations like Kodiak Island and the Aleutian Islands.

In addition to watching seaplanes, you can also explore the area on foot. The base has a walking trail that takes you along the shore of the lake, where you'll see small cottages and other buildings. There are also several restaurants in the area that serve up delicious food and drinks.

Overall, Lake Hood Seaplane Base is a must-see attraction during your visit to Anchorage. With its free anchorage and unique location, it's a great spot to spend an afternoon or even an entire day. So be sure to put it on your itinerary and experience the excitement of watching seaplanes take off and land on the lake.

Visit the Alaska Veterans Museum

Characteristic	Description
Name	Alaska Veterans Museum
Type	Museum in Anchorage, Alaska
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.8 / 27
Address	411 W 4th Ave #2A, Anchorage, AK 99501
Phone	(907) 677-8802
Hours	Monday - Closed Tuesday - Closed Wednesday - 10 AM–5 PM Thursday - 10 AM–5 PM Friday - 10 AM–5 PM Saturday - 10 AM–5 PM Sunday(Easter) - Closed
Profiles

If you're planning to visit Anchorage, Alaska, you might want to drop by the city's Veterans Museum. Not only will you learn about the history and sacrifices of the state's veterans, but you can also enjoy free anchorage as you explore the museum's galleries and displays.

The Alaska Veterans Museum, located at 333 W. 4th Avenue in downtown Anchorage, is a non-profit organization that seeks to preserve the memory and legacy of Alaska's military personnel. The museum features a collection of military artifacts, memorabilia and personal stories that date back to the mid-19th century. From World War II artifacts to collections from the Korean and Vietnam Wars, the museum offers a comprehensive overview of the military history of Alaska.

In addition to its exhibits, the Alaska Veterans Museum also provides visitors with interactive displays, hands-on activities and educational programs that cater to people of all ages. The museum is often visited by school groups, tourists and local residents who want to learn more about the heroism and bravery of veteran soldiers.

Aside from the museum's educational value, it also offers free anchorage as one of its benefits. Parking can be expensive in the city, but if you visit the museum, you can forget about the parking fees because you can park your car for free. This is a great perk, especially if you're on a budget and want to explore Anchorage's downtown area without having to worry about parking fees.

To sum it up, if you're looking for a unique and educational experience in Anchorage, Alaska, you should definitely visit the Alaska Veterans Museum. Not only will you get to learn about the history and sacrifices of military personnel, but you'll also get to enjoy free anchorage as an added bonus. It's a great way to spend your day while honoring the brave men and women who have dedicated their lives to protect their country.

Walk through the Downtown Farmer's Market

If you're looking for a fun activity in downtown Anchorage that won't cost you a penny, be sure to take a stroll through the Downtown Farmers Market. Held every Saturday from May to September, the market is located in the heart of downtown at 3rd Avenue and E Street.

The market is a fantastic place to experience Anchorage's vibrant and diverse culture. You'll find a variety of local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts, jewelry, and clothing. Take your time wandering through the stalls, enjoying the colorful displays and lively atmosphere.

In addition to the vendors, the market features live music, entertainment, and activities for kids. The market is open from 9 am to 2 pm, so there's plenty of time to explore.

If you happen to get hungry while you're there, don't worry – the market has a great selection of food vendors offering everything from baked goods to ethnic cuisine. Take a break from shopping and enjoy a delicious snack while soaking up the sights and sounds of the market.

One of the best things about the Downtown Farmers Market is that it's completely free. You can easily spend a few hours enjoying the market without spending a dime. And if you do decide to make a purchase, you can feel good knowing that you're supporting local businesses and farmers.

So if you're looking for a fun and free activity in Anchorage, head down to the Downtown Farmers Market. It's a great way to experience the city's culture and community while enjoying the beautiful weather and scenery.

Tour the Anchorage Trolley

If you are looking for a fun and unique way to explore the beautiful city of Anchorage, then make sure to hop on the Anchorage Trolley tour! This tour will take you on a delightful trip through the heart of the city while ensuring that you get the most out of your visit to Anchorage. One of the best parts about this tour? It's entirely free of anchorage!

The Anchorage Trolley tour is perfect for visitors who want to see the sights, sounds, and attractions of Anchorage in style. The trolley itself is a charming mode of transportation, with its bright red exterior and classic design. You will feel as though you have stepped back in time when you board the trolley!

The tour starts at the downtown visitor center and stops at key locations throughout the city. The knowledgeable and friendly trolley guides will provide you with a comprehensive and interesting overview of Anchorage and its history, culture, and attractions. You will learn about the city's gold rush past, the history of the railroad, and the unique wildlife that calls Anchorage home.

Some of the top attractions you will see on the Anchorage Trolley tour include beautiful parks, historic neighborhoods, and popular museums. Stops include the Alaska Native Heritage Center, Earthquake Park, and the Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center. Along the way, you will also enjoy beautiful views of the water and mountains that surround Anchorage.

One of the best parts about this tour? It's entirely free! The Anchorage Trolley tour is funded by the Downtown Improvement District and the Municipality of Anchorage, ensuring that all visitors to the city can enjoy this delightful experience without spending a dime.

Overall, the Anchorage Trolley tour is a must-do activity for visitors to the city. Its charming design, knowledgeable guides, and comprehensive overview of Anchorage are sure to leave you with a deeper appreciation for this beautiful city. Plus, the fact that it's free of anchorage makes it all the more appealing! So why not hop aboard and see Anchorage in style?

Visit the Campbell Creek Science Center

Characteristic	Description
Name	Campbell Creek Science Center
Type	Science museum in Anchorage, Alaska
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.9 / 22
Address	5600 Science Center Dr, Anchorage, AK 99507
Phone	(907) 267-1247
Hours	Monday - 9 AM–4 PM Tuesday - 9 AM–4 PM Wednesday - 9 AM–4 PM Thursday - 9 AM–4 PM Friday - 9 AM–4 PM Saturday - Closed Sunday(Easter) - Closed
Profiles

Are you planning a visit to Anchorage, Alaska and looking for free anchorages? Look no further than Campbell Creek Science Center. This scientific center is an excellent place for boaters to visit while enjoying a stunning view of Chugach Mountains.

The Campbell Creek Science Center is an ideal spot for visitors, boaters, and campers. You’ll be delighted to find out there are no fees to access the anchorage or use the facilities. The Anchorage School District owns and manages the scientific center, and it contains the creek, the terrain, the flora, and the fauna of the local area.

The Science Center provides an opportunity for visitors to learn about Anchorage’s ecosystem and how it impacts the residents of the area, especially boaters. Additionally, you can access Campbell Creek Greenbelt’s creek and interpretive trail from this facility. The Anchorage Greenbelt is a vast parkland that includes several creeks that wind through the city.

The anchorage area is well sheltered within Campbell Creek and provides visitors with an excellent place to drop anchor. Anchoring at the Campbell Creek Science Center allows you to access other waterborne activities such as fishing, wildlife viewing, and exploring nearby tide pools.

The area features lots of campsites for campers who enjoy both land-based and waterborne activities. The center also supports RVs, making it a fantastic destination for those who love camping with some luxury.

Overall, if you’re a boater looking for a free anchorage in Anchorage, Campbell Creek Science Center provides you with the ideal spot to drop anchor while enjoying an adventure in this unique Alaskan city. So, grab your paddle and experience the fantastic waterways of Anchorage!

Explore the Kincaid Park

If you're looking for a great way to enjoy the beauty of Anchorage without spending a lot of money, you might want to explore the Kincaid Park. This beautiful park, located on the southwestern edge of the city, offers miles of trails for hiking, cycling, skiing, and snowshoeing. And best of all, the park has plenty of free anchorage areas, so you can park your car and start exploring!

Kincaid Park is home to over 1,400 acres of wilderness, making it one of the largest municipal parks in the country. Depending on the season, you can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, including fishing, camping, birdwatching, and picnicking. During the winter months, the park transforms into a winter wonderland, with groomed ski trails, sledding hills, and a lighted ice-skating rink.

One of the main attractions at Kincaid Park is the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, a 11-mile paved trail that runs along the shore of the Cook Inlet. The trail is open year-round and provides stunning views of the inlet and the Chugach Mountains. In the summer, you might spot beluga whales or sea otters in the water, while in the winter, you can enjoy the solitude of the snow-covered landscape.

Another popular feature of the park is the Kincaid Chalet, a large log cabin that serves as a visitors center and a venue for weddings and other events. Inside the chalet, you can find exhibits about the history and ecology of the park, as well as maps and brochures to help you plan your visit. Outside the chalet, you can take a guided tour of the park or rent equipment for skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing.

If you're looking for a place to spend the day in Anchorage without breaking the bank, the Kincaid Park is definitely worth a visit. Whether you're a lifelong resident of the city or a visitor just passing through, you're sure to find something to love in this beautiful wilderness oasis. So pack a picnic, grab your hiking boots, and head to the Kincaid Park for an unforgettable outdoor adventure!

Watch a movie at the Anchorage International Film Festival

If you're looking for a way to get out of the cold this winter, why not check out the Anchorage International Film Festival? This annual event is a great opportunity to see some of the best independent and international films on the big screen. And the best part? There are plenty of free screenings that you can attend.

The Anchorage International Film Festival (AIFF) has been showcasing independent films in Alaska since 2001. The festival features a wide variety of films, from documentaries to narratives, and includes both short and feature-length films. The festival also has a focus on films made in Alaska or by Alaskan filmmakers.

One of the great things about the AIFF is that it offers free screenings throughout the festival. In addition to ticketed events, the festival features free screenings of short films, documentaries, and other programming. These screenings are a great way to get a taste of the festival and see some great films without breaking the bank.

One free event that you won't want to miss is the AIFF Family Day. This event is a great opportunity for families to enjoy some fun films and activities together. The event includes free screenings of family-friendly films, as well as games, crafts, and other activities for kids. It's a great way to introduce your children to the world of film and have some fun together as a family.

So if you're looking for something to do this winter, why not check out the Anchorage International Film Festival? With plenty of free screenings and a wide variety of films to choose from, it's sure to be a great time for film lovers of all ages.

Enjoy the festivities at the Fur Rendezvous Festival

As winter slowly sets in and the cold breeze starts blowing, Alaska gets ready to celebrate the much-awaited Fur Rendezvous Festival. With a host of events and activities lined up, it is not just the locals but also the tourists who flock to Anchorage to witness and take part in the festivities.

While the festival offers a lot of fun-filled events, one of the best parts is the free anchorage that is open to all visitors. Unlike other events where parking is a hassle and comes at a steep price, the organizers of the Fur Rendezvous Festival ensure that parking is not a concern for the visitors.

The free anchorage is available at multiple locations in Anchorage, with the most popular hub being the Alaska Railroad parking lot. This ensures that visitors have easy access to the main events and can enjoy the carnival rides, food vendors, and various other attractions without worrying about their vehicles.

Moreover, the Anchorage Downtown Partnership provides free shuttle services 24/7 between the parking lot and the downtown area where most events take place. One can hop on and off the shuttle as per their convenience and save both time and money.

Apart from the convenience of free parking, the Fur Rendezvous Festival boasts of several other events that will keep visitors entertained throughout the duration of the festival. The Opening Ceremonies is a must-visit event, where the festival's king and queen are crowned and the first fireworks display of the season is held.

The carnival rides are a delight for children, and the festival's signature event, the World Championship Sled Dog Race, is a thrilling experience that will leave you in awe.

The Fur Rendezvous Festival is also famous for its snow sculptures and the Snowshoe Softball Tournament, where participants play softball in snowshoes - a unique and exciting twist on the classic game.

In conclusion, the Fur Rendezvous Festival is a fantastic event that showcases the best of what Anchorage has to offer. With the convenience of free anchorage and shuttle services, visitors can make the most of their time at the festival and enjoy the range of events and activities on offer. So, pack your bags and head to Anchorage to experience this winter wonderland first-hand.

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