Anchorage History & Culture

Perfect for history buffs and culture lovers, this trip transports you through thousands of years of Alaska history. Learn the history of the Dena'ina Athabascan homelands within which Anchorage is located, witness evidence of the 1964 Good Friday earthquake, hear tales of Alaska settlers, check out vintage aircraft, and learn about Alaska's Russian influences.

Day 1: Learn the lay of the land

Morning

On March 27, 1964, the most powerful earthquake ever recorded in North America shook all of Southcentral Alaska. See the evidence first hand at Earthquake Park, just outside downtown Anchorage, where huge tracts of land slid into Cook Inlet. The park features an interpretive display and offers stunning views of the city skyline and Denali. For just a few bucks, bike rentals from downtown can get you there in a breeze.

Afternoon

Stop by the Alaska Public Lands Information Center to explore Alaska’s public lands through wildlife and cultural exhibits, interactive videos, and trip-planning information. Park rangers lead the free Captain Cook walking tour at 11 am and 2:30 pm. (summer). Across the street, directly behind the Log Cabin Visitor Information Center is Historic City Hall - this two-story building opened in 1936 and once housed all of the city’s municipal services. Today, find a free exhibit of early Anchorage in the lobby.

Evening

Check out the Bear Square to hear tales from the Iditarod Trail and relive the serum run to Nome during the 1925 diphtheria epidemic, when 20 hardy mushers and their dogs persevered through the harshest conditions to save untold lives in Nome. Hook into a king salmon or step aboard a hot air balloon for a simulated drift over Prince William Sound.

Day 2: Soar to new heights, see the northern lights

Morning

Drive north to Eklutna Historical Park, a Dena'ina Athabascan community dating back to 1650. The park examines the fascinating mixture of the Russian influences and Athabascan culture. Be sure to check out the Saint Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church, the oldest building in the greater Anchorage area, and the cemetery with colorful spirit houses. The visitor center has a gift shop and offers guided tours.

Afternoon

Visit the Alaska Law Enforcement Museum downtown to learn about law enforcement in the Great Land. Cap off the afternoon with a stop at Lake Hood Seaplane Base – the busiest floatplane base in the world! Located on the south shore of the lake, the Alaska Aviation Museum is home to vintage aircraft and the stories of the pioneering aviators who braved Alaska’s skies.

Evening

See the northern lights during summer! Alaska Naturally presents “AurorA: Alaska’s Great Northern Lights,” a stunning digital presentation set to incredible original music scores. 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. at the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts.