Anchorage Winter City Tour with Wildlife Sightings
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore Anchorage's winter charm
- Spot local wildlife in their natural habitat
- Sample authentic Alaskan cuisine
- Learn about Anchorage's rich history
- Enjoy scenic winter landscapes
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Guided city tour of Anchorage
- Wildlife viewing opportunities
- Local food and beverage samples
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
Itinerary
This marks both the beginning and conclusion of our tour. Within the visitor center, you'll discover an array of brochures, receive personalized advice, and engage in insightful conversations with our volunteers about your visit to Anchorage.
Get your photo with the Greetings from Alaska Mural!
**Meet SnowElla, Anchorage’s 25-Foot Snow Lady** Don’t miss this enchanting stop to meet SnowElla, Anchorage’s very own 25-foot-tall snow lady! Here, you’ll have the perfect photo opportunity with this towering, frosty icon, set against Alaska’s beautiful winter landscape. Listen to the story of SnowElla's creation on a dark winter night, as the northern lights danced overhead, inspiring the magic behind her construction. Discover how this beloved figure was built from the ground up, making SnowElla an unforgettable part of Anchorage’s winter charm!
**Discover Alaska’s Ulu at the Ulu Factory** Explore the Ulu Factory, where you’ll dive into the fascinating history of Alaska’s traditional ulu knife. At this stop, guests will learn how these iconic knives are crafted, their historical significance, and techniques for using them in everyday life. Watch skilled artisans at work and gain insights into this essential tool used by Alaska Natives for centuries. Enjoy a bit of shopping for authentic Alaskan goods, including your very own ulu to take home, and experience a slice of Alaska’s cultural heritage firsthand!
Pass by: As we embark on this tour, we'll immerse ourselves in the rich history of the renowned explorer, Captain James Cook. We'll trace his epic voyage to Anchorage, learning about his adventures, trials, and discoveries along the way. This man's journey not only shaped the course of exploration history but also left a significant impact on Anchorage itself.
Pass by: The Alaska Railroad Depot, you'll delve into the compelling history of Anchorage's creation. You'll discover how this 'locomotive' force, the railroad, played a pivotal role in shaping the city. Anchorage owes its growth and modern existence largely to the railroad. The depot will offer you a unique insight into the transformative power of the railroad and its influence on Anchorage's evolution.
Pass by: **Passing by West Anchorage High School** As we pass by West Anchorage High, you'll hear fascinating stories about the history of Anchorage’s schools and learn about the rich diversity that makes this city unique. We’ll share the amusing tale of the school's quirky mascot, adding a touch of local humor to the journey. It’s a fun and informative glimpse into Anchorage’s vibrant community and educational heritage.
Pass by: Anchorage’s Underground House Catch a glimpse of one of Anchorage’s most unique architectural wonders: the underground house. As we pass by, you’ll hear the intriguing history behind this one-of-a-kind home, learn about its unusual features, and discover how it was constructed to blend with Alaska’s rugged landscape. This fascinating stop offers a peek into Anchorage’s innovative side, making it a memorable highlight of your tour!
During our visit to Point Woronzof, prepare to be awestruck by the breathtaking panoramic views that this area offers. As you gaze out over Cook Inlet, you'll find your eyes drawn to the snow-capped peaks of the Chugach Mountains rising majestically in the distance. This mountain range forms a dramatic backdrop against the expansive Alaskan sky and reflects beautifully on the waters of the inlet. If the weather is clear, you may even catch a glimpse of Mount Denali, North America's highest peak. Known for its staggering height and stunning beauty, seeing Mount Denali is a truly unforgettable experience.
As part of the tour at Earthquake Park, you'll have the unique opportunity to witness the frozen shockwaves from the catastrophic 1964 earthquake. Known as the Great Alaskan Earthquake or Good Friday Earthquake, and remains one of the most powerful earthquakes recorded in U.S. history. You'll hear stories of how the local community banded together in the face of adversity, demonstrating resilience and unity in their collective survival efforts. The park itself stands as a testament to the quake's profound impact, with a section of the Turnagain neighborhood having slid into the ocean during the disaster. Moreover, you'll gain an understanding of the widespread global impact of this seismic event. At this stop, you'll feel the enduring influence that the 1964 earthquake had not just on Anchorage, but on the world.
**Stop at Alaska Sausage and Seafood** Indulge in authentic Alaskan flavors at Alaska Sausage and Seafood! At this stop, guests will have the opportunity to taste Alaska’s famed smoked salmon, savor the unique flavor of reindeer sausage, and experience the richness of local traditions. Knowledgeable staff will be on hand to answer questions about the smoking process, Alaska’s wild-caught salmon, and the art of making specialty sausages. It’s a tasty, interactive stop that lets you immerse yourself in Alaska’s culinary heritage—perfect for food lovers and adventure seekers alike!
Pass by: During our tour of Alaska, we will delve into the history of what's often referred to as "The Forgotten War." This term commonly refers to World War II's Aleutian Campaign, a series of conflicts fought in Alaska's Aleutian Islands. We will also explore the significant role the military has played in Alaska's history and development. From the WWII era to the present day, the military's presence has been a crucial aspect of the state's identity, shaping its infrastructure, economy, and culture.
Pass by: Westchester Lagoon, located in the heart of Anchorage, Alaska, is a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike. Not only does it offer stunning natural beauty, but during the winter months, it transforms into one of the city's most beloved ice rinks.
During our tour of Lake Hood and Lake Spenard, you'll not only learn about the historical and contemporary significance of this location but also have an opportunity to capture stunning photographs of the variety of planes parked along the shoreline or soaring in the clear Alaskan sky. This bustling base is a haven for aviation enthusiasts and photographers alike, with its colorful array of aircraft and picturesque natural backdrop. You might witness an even more extraordinary sight: planes landing on the frozen lake.
**Winter Stop at Rust’s Flying Service** Experience the magic of Alaska’s winter at Rust’s Flying Service, where you’ll enjoy a cozy coffee break with an Alaskan pilot. Against the snowy backdrop of Lake Hood, the busiest seaplane base in the world, you’ll have the chance to chat with a pilot, ask questions about flying over Alaska’s breathtaking winter landscapes, and snap memorable photos with the iconic planes. Take a stroll along the dock, wrapped in winter’s tranquility, and capture the quiet beauty of Alaska’s frozen expanse. This is a one-of-a-kind stop that brings Alaska’s aviation heritage and winter wonder to life.
Meeting point
Start Location
Unknown location
Important information
Know before you book
- Tour operates in winter months; check local weather conditions
- Confirm tour availability and book in advance
- Be prepared for potential changes due to weather or wildlife sightings
Know before you go
- Dress warmly in layers suitable for cold temperatures
- Wear waterproof boots to navigate snowy conditions
- Bring a camera to capture wildlife and scenic views
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Stroller Accessible
- Service Animals Allowed
- Easy Public Transport
- Infants Required On Laps
Good to know
- The total duration includes the travel time.
Traveler reviews
overall a good tour
Our tour guide Prince was very good. He was very knowledgeable about Anchorage. It was enjoyable and a good first stop when arriving in Alaska. Prince even ended our tour by singing the Alaskan anthem :-) The only negative was even though Alaska Sausage and Seafood was on the itinerary it was omitted from the tour. And the reason given was an unbelievable one. We found out later they had lied about it. They just need to remove it from the itinerary as they are no long allowed to stop at Alaska Sausage and Seafood.
Rip-off. Did not deliver what was advertised.
This tour was extremely disappointing. We do not recommend. They did not visit many of the spots that are advertised, such as the giant snowlady in the picture, or Point Woronzoff. They did go to Rust Aviation but nothing to do there but use the restroom. They also did not go to Alaskan Seafood Co. to sample seafood and reindeer sausage. Instead, they abruptly ended the tour and the driver/guide Ian handed out to each person a small packet of a single stick of sausage that says "2% Reindeer meat added." About the only thing enjoyable on this tour was that Ian is a funny entertaining guy constantly cracking jokes. But by the time it ended, we just felt like we got cheated. Not worth the time nor money. Go with someone else.
The guide was amazing! He...
The guide was amazing! He had a great sense of humor, was knowledgeable, and great manners... he made sure we all stayed safe on our stops and shared a lot of info. Him singing at the end of the tour was nice. The tour was great!
Great Guide
Great guide/driver. Very friendly and knowledgeable. Basically driving around downtown Anchorage pointing out points of interest. Good description of tidal bore. Tour stops were not very interesting - Ulu retail store was a typical gift shop.
Prince of a guide!
Great experience with Prince, seeing the sights of Anchorage! Fun narration by a life long resident, and talented guide.
