Hotels in Anchorage

Anchorage Awaits: Where Glaciers Meet Cultural Treasures

Anchorage, Alaska, is a breathtaking fusion of urban charm and wild beauty, making it an outdoor adventurer's paradise. Nestled between the stunning Chugach Mountains and the shimmering waters of Cook Inlet, this vibrant city offers easy access to majestic glaciers, lush natural parks, and captivating wildlife. Explore the Anchorage Museum for a taste of local culture, or venture into the wilderness for hiking, fishing, and breathtaking views. With its unique blend of nature and urban life, Anchorage invites travelers to experience the raw, untouched allure of the Last Frontier. Rediscover adventure in this remarkable Alaskan gem! For the best hotel rates in Anchorage and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Anchorage

Some of the best places to stay in Anchorage are Downtown Anchorage, Midtown Anchorage and Spenard. Anchorage offers diverse neighborhoods for travelers. Downtown Anchorage is vibrant, featuring shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, making it ideal for first-time visitors. Midtown Anchorage has a mix of local dining and shopping, providing a more suburban feel. Spenard is known for its quirky charm and outdoor activities. Hotel accommodations vary, with options ranging from luxury hotels to cozy lodges, ensuring something for every budget in all three areas. Choose Downtown for a bustling experience and easy access to attractions. Here are some of the best hotels in Anchorage that our travelers love:

1. Downtown AnchorageOpens in a new window: Downtown Anchorage is a vibrant hub for both business and leisure travelers, featuring key attractions like the Dena'ina Civic and Convention Center and the University of Alaska - Anchorage. This area offers a mix of historic charm and modern amenities, making it ideal for those looking to explore the city. For accommodation, consider Hotel Captain CookOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel in a historic building, perfect for adventure and business travelers, offering various adventure sports and business amenities. Another great option is Marriott Anchorage DowntownOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel that caters to adventure seekers with nearby activities like sailing and skiing, while providing essential business services. Lastly, check out Arctic Fox InnOpens in a new window, a guesthouse that focuses on adventure and city experiences, perfect for those wanting to immerse themselves in the local culture.
2. Midtown AnchorageOpens in a new window: Midtown Anchorage is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise and offers easy access to attractions like the University of Alaska - Anchorage and the Dena'ina Civic and Convention Center. This area is well-suited for families and business travelers alike. Embassy Suites AnchorageOpens in a new window is a family-friendly, 3.5-star hotel that provides business amenities and adventure activities such as kayaking and snow tubing. For a more business-focused stay, Crowne Plaza Anchorage Midtown, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star hotel offering comprehensive business services and a convenient location. Additionally, Homewood Suites by Hilton AnchorageOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star hotel, allows pets and provides business facilities, making it a versatile choice for travelers.
3. SpenardOpens in a new window: Spenard is a charming area known for its outdoor activities and proximity to key attractions such as the University of Alaska - Anchorage. This location is an excellent choice for both business and family travelers. Deal's Bed & Breakfast InnOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star bed and breakfast that caters to business needs with essential amenities. Another option is Gardenside Bed and BreakfastOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star bed and breakfast offering complimentary breakfast and entertainment options, perfect for those who appreciate convenience and comfort. For families and adventure seekers, The Lakefront AnchorageOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel, offers an array of outdoor activities and business services, ensuring a well-rounded stay.

Things to do in Anchorage for first time

Three days in Anchorage offers a perfect escape into stunning landscapes of mountains, forests, and lakes. Visitors can enjoy hiking, wildlife watching, and outdoor festivals, along with opportunities for boating and shopping. This vibrant city beautifully blends natural beauty with cultural experiences, making it a must-visit destination. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Anchorage:

• Day 1: Start your Anchorage adventure at the Alaska Native Heritage Center, where you can explore the rich indigenous culture through exhibits, traditional dance performances, and storytelling. After immersing yourself in local history, venture to Mt. Baldy Trail for a refreshing hike. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, making it a perfect spot for photography. Conclude your day with a visit to the St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church, a beautiful and historic site that showcases Alaska's unique cultural heritage.
• Day 2: Kick off your day at the Elmendorf State Fish Hatchery, where you can learn about salmon life cycles and witness the fish in action. Following your visit, head to Big Lake South State Recreation Site, a great spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll along the shore, surrounded by nature. Finish your day at Big Lake North State Recreation Area, perfect for outdoor activities such as fishing, kayaking, or simply enjoying the serene views of the lake.
• Day 3: Begin your exploration at the Eagle and Symphony Lakes Trailhead, where you can enjoy an invigorating hike through lush forests and scenic lakes. Afterward, visit Thunderbird Falls, a breathtaking waterfall that’s an easy hike from the parking area, ideal for a quick photo op. Round off your day at the Indian Valley Mine National Historic Site, where you can delve into Alaska's gold mining history and enjoy tours that transport you back in time.

5 tips to find a great Anchorage hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Anchorage is during January, November, and December, when hotel prices are significantly lower. For international travelers looking for great value for money, it's advisable to book your flight at least four months in advance to secure better rates. To truly enjoy and explore the main attractions, plan for at least a 2-3 day stay. In Anchorage, you can discover a variety of affordable attractions, including fascinating museums and stunning natural parks.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Anchorage, Hotels.com offers a variety of options to help you save on your stay. To explore these offers, check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where you're more likely to find discounted rates as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider setting up email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to receive updates on flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, so you can seize any opportunities to save.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Anchorage.
4. Consider your location: When booking your holiday on Hotels.com, take your location into account. Staying near major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to be more expensive. For more affordable options, consider hotels in neighborhoods that are a bit farther away, while keeping in mind the balance between cost and easy access to the places you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Join Hotels.com's free One Key program and book your next stay in Anchorage. As a member, you can earn and use rewards points for hotel bookings. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various benefits like room upgrades when available, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up today.

What to eat in Anchorage

Here are a few must-try restaurants in Anchorage, Alaska, United States of America:

• Moose's Tooth Pub & Pizzeria: Renowned for its creative takes on pizza, Moose's Tooth combines local ingredients with imaginative flavors, offering unique toppings like reindeer sausage and smoked salmon. Their extensive craft beer selection perfectly complements the bold menu, making it a must-visit for pizza lovers.
• West Berlin: This trendy eatery focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, showcasing the best of Alaskan seafood and game. Their menu features innovative dishes that blend traditional flavors with contemporary techniques, creating a dining experience that reflects the spirit of Anchorage.
• Spenard Roadhouse: Celebrated for its casual vibe and commitment to local sourcing, Spenard Roadhouse offers a menu that highlights comfort food with a twist, such as wild game burgers and hearty sides. The restaurant emphasizes community and sustainability in its culinary approach, making it a true Alaskan gem.

Best time to go to Anchorage

Anchorage experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 17.1°F (-8.3°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 57.4°F (14.1°C). August tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Anchorage are April, June, and July, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by dry to light rainfall. In contrast, September, October, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.