Gateway to the Last Frontier
Explore Anchorage: Your Guide to Adventure and Discovery
Welcome to Gateway to the Last Frontier! Your ultimate resource for exploring the wonders of Anchorage, Alaska. Whether you're a resident or a traveler, we’re here to help you navigate this stunning region and discover all it has to offer. From thrilling outdoor adventures and unique cultural experiences to delicious dining and local events, our site provides comprehensive guides, insider tips, and up-to-date information to enhance your journey. Dive into the beauty of Anchorage with our curated recommendations and helpful maps.
Join us as we unlock the treasures of the Last Frontier—your adventure starts here!
Through the Lens: Anchorage
Quick Links
Did you know that the Municipality of Anchorage spans from Girdwood all the way up to Eklutna? That’s about 40 miles south to north! It’s a pretty big area, covering both the city and surrounding communities, so there’s a lot more to Anchorage than just downtown!
ANNUAL EVENTS
-
![]()
Fur Rendezvous
February 20th-March 2nd 2025
Fur Rendezvous, or Fur Rondy, is an annual winter festival in Anchorage, Alaska, held in late February. It celebrates the city’s history and culture with events like sled dog races, snow sculptures, a carnival, and a parade, offering a festive atmosphere for both locals and visitors.
-
![]()
Alaska State Fair
August 15th-Septemeber 1st 2025
The Alaska State Fair, held annually in Palmer, showcases the state's unique culture and agricultural achievements. Typically taking place in late August to early September, the fair features a variety of activities, including livestock exhibits, arts and crafts competitions, live entertainment, and local food vendors. It also highlights Alaska's incredible produce, with giant vegetables often on display. The fair is a celebration of community, tradition, and the vibrant spirit of Alaskan life.
-
![]()
Girdwood Forest Fair
TBA
The Girdwood Forest Fair is a beloved annual event in Girdwood, Alaska, usually held in early July. This community-oriented festival celebrates local artisans, crafts, and music in a picturesque forest setting. Visitors can enjoy handmade crafts, art, delicious food, and live performances from various musicians. The fair also emphasizes sustainability and environmental awareness, making it a family-friendly event that highlights the natural beauty of the area. It's a great way to experience the local culture and connect with the Girdwood community.
-
![]()
Bear Paw Festival
July 9 - 13, 2025.
The whole town comes together for a weekend full of fun, with something for everyone. Some events might catch you by surprise, but they're always a blast. The Slippery Salmon Olympics is one of the most popular—teams of two race against each other and the clock, carrying a real salmon while navigating some tricky obstacles.
The Running of the Bears is another favorite: a 300-yard fun run where participants race alongside mascots from local businesses and community groups. Then there’s Human Foosball, which takes the classic game and swaps out the plastic players for actual people.
Other highlights include the Teddy Bear Picnic, a classic car show, a lively parade, carnival rides, and the I-Did-A-Duck Race, a rubber duck regatta that's as fun as it sounds.
-
![]()
Mount Marathon Race
July 4th, 2025
Experience the thrill of the Mount Marathon Race in Seward, Alaska, held every year on July 4th! This historic race, established in 1915, challenges participants to race from downtown Seward to the summit of Mount Marathon and back, covering a 3,022 foot elevation gain. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a first-time spectator, this event promises excitement, breathtaking views, and a festive atmosphere.
Anchorage Reviews
-
![]()
My family and I had the best time in Anchorage! The scenery was absolutely breathtaking, and we loved every moment exploring the outdoors. We did a glacier cruise, went hiking in Kincaid Park, and even saw the Northern Lights. The locals were incredibly friendly, and the food was delicious, especially the seafood. It was the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Highly recommend to anyone looking for an unforgettable trip!
Sarah Rogers
-
![]()
While Anchorage has beautiful surroundings, the city itself left me wanting more. There wasn’t much to do in the evenings, and the dining scene didn’t live up to the hype. I was hoping for more cultural activities and diverse shopping options. The outdoor activities were great, but I didn’t feel the city had as much energy as I expected. It’s perfect for nature lovers, but I think I prefer a bit more urban life during my vacations.
Jonathan Smith
-
![]()
If you love nature, Anchorage is paradise. We spent most of our time outdoors, whether it was hiking, kayaking, or wildlife watching. The views were stunning, and the air was so fresh. However, we found the city a little too quiet for our taste. After a long day of activities, we struggled to find much entertainment or vibrant nightlife. Overall, a great place if you want peace and adventure, but not ideal if you're looking for a bustling city vibe.
Lisa Williams
-
![]()
While Anchorage has beautiful surroundings, the city itself left me wanting more. There wasn’t much to do in the evenings, and the dining scene didn’t live up to the hype. I was hoping for more cultural activities and diverse shopping options. The outdoor activities were great, but I didn’t feel the city had as much energy as I expected. It’s perfect for nature lovers, but I think I prefer a bit more urban life during my vacations.
Peter Johnson
-
![]()
Anchorage is stunning! The landscapes are beautiful, and we had a great time exploring the outdoors. The local people were warm and welcoming, and there were plenty of things to do during the day. However, we did have a few issues with our accommodations and transportation. Our hotel was nice but had some maintenance issues, and the bus system wasn’t as reliable as we’d hoped. Despite these small setbacks, we had a fantastic trip overall and would still recommend Anchorage to others!
Chris Anderson
