Summer Fun in Alaska — Top Things to Do in Anchorage This Summer!

If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing Alaska in the warm season, Anchorage summer is the perfect adventure. The city bursts into life with long sunny days, outdoor festivals, wildlife encounters, and endless scenic views. Travelers from across the country fly in to enjoy a mix of nature, culture, and city fun all in one place.

Planning your summer vacation in Anchorage can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry—we’ll guide you step by step. From exploring trails to booking affordable flights from Detroit to Anchorage or finding the best flight deals from Chicago to Anchorage, everything is within reach.

So, let’s dive into the best things you and your family can do this summer in Anchorage!

Why Visit Anchorage in the Summer?

Anchorage is one of those cities that truly shines during summer. Thanks to its location, you get up to 20 hours of daylight—perfect for exploring.

Here’s why summer in Anchorage is special:

• Mild Weather: Enjoy average temperatures between 60–70°F. 
• Outdoor Adventures: Hike, bike, or kayak with stunning mountain and ocean views. 
• Wildlife Watching: See moose, bears, eagles, and even whales. 
• Festivals & Culture: Anchorage hosts music, art, and food festivals during the season. 

And the best part? Anchorage is easy to reach with cheap round-trip flights from Atlanta to Anchorage or even lowest airfares from Denver to Anchorage.

Top Things to Do in Anchorage This Summer

1. Explore Anchorage’s Scenic Trails

Anchorage is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, and hiking is the best way to enjoy them. Popular trails include:

• Tony Knowles Coastal Trail — A flat, scenic path perfect for biking or walking. 
• Flattop Mountain Trail — Offers one of the best panoramic views of the city. 
• Kincaid Park Trails — Great for spotting wildlife and enjoying nature. 

Pro Tip: Bring a light jacket and good walking shoes. Weather can change quickly, even in summer!

Book your trip early to save more. For example, compare cheap flight tickets from Cleveland to Anchorage or discounts on flights from Houston to Anchorage for budget-friendly travel.

2. Go Wildlife Spotting

Anchorage is one of the few U.S. cities where you can spot wildlife without going too far. Summer is the best season for it.

• Visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center to see bears, moose, and bison. 
• Take a day cruise from nearby Seward or Whittier to see whales, seals, and puffins. 
• Look for bald eagles soaring in the skies above the city. 

Families love this experience because it feels like stepping into a live nature documentary. And getting here is simple with flights from Boston to Anchorage  or round-trip flights from Phoenix to Anchorage.

3. Discover Anchorage’s Culture and History

Anchorage isn’t just about nature—it’s rich in history and culture too.

• Anchorage Museum — Learn about Alaska’s history, native culture, and art. 
• Alaska Native Heritage Center — A must-visit to understand the traditions of Alaska’s Indigenous people. 
• Downtown Markets and Festivals — Enjoy live music, street food, and arts & crafts. 

Many travelers plan their summer trip around cultural festivals. Save time and money by booking flight reservations from Portland to Anchorage or even best flight deals from Miami to Anchorage.

4. Take a Glacier Tour

Anchorage is surrounded by glaciers, and summer is the best time to visit them.

Options include:

• Helicopter Tours — Fly over glaciers for stunning aerial views. 
• Boat Cruises — Get close to tidewater glaciers. 
• Day Hikes — Some glaciers can be reached by hiking trails. 

This is an adventure you’ll remember for a lifetime. Families often choose cheap round-trip flights from Philadelphia to Anchorage

5. Enjoy Outdoor Festivals and Event

Anchorage summer is packed with festivals that highlight the city’s lively spirit.

Some favorites include:

• Summer Solstice Festival — Celebrate the longest day of the year with music and fun. 
• Girdwood Forest Fair — A quirky, artsy festival in the nearby town of Girdwood. 
• Music in the Park — Free concerts held in downtown Anchorage. 

Traveling with friends or family? Compare cheapest flight tickets from Indianapolis to Anchorage or airlines flying from Dallas to Anchorage for the best deals.

6. Go Fishing or Kayaking

Fishing in Anchorage is a summer tradition. Whether it’s salmon fishing in Ship Creek or kayaking in nearby lakes, you’ll love the peaceful vibe.

• Rent gear locally or join a guided tour.
• July is peak salmon season—perfect timing if you’re planning a family fishing trip.

Book early and check options like book flight tickets from Los Angeles to Anchorage or flights from Tampa to Anchorage 

7. Take a Day Trip from Anchorage

If you have extra time, explore nearby spots:

• Denali National Park (4 hours away) — See North America’s tallest peak. 
• Kenai Fjords National Park — Stunning fjords, glaciers, and marine wildlife. 
• Talkeetna — A charming small town with great views of Denali. 

Flights make it easy to plan longer trips. For example, look for direct flights from Chicago to Anchorage or last-minute flights to Anchorage for flexible options.

Tips for Planning Your Anchorage Summer Trip

• Book Early: Flights and hotels fill up quickly in summer. 
• Pack Layers: Weather can change fast. Bring light jackets, rain gear, and hiking shoes. 
• Stay Flexible: Use Anchorage as your base and take day trips. 
• Save on Flights: Always compare deals. For instance, check best flight deals from San Francisco to Anchorage or cheap round-trip flights to Anchorage for affordable options. 

Why Anchorage Summer is Perfect for Families

Traveling with kids? Anchorage makes it easy. The city offers:

• Safe, family-friendly outdoor activities. 
• Educational museums and cultural experiences. 
• Unique adventures like dog sledding on summer glaciers. 

Parents often find the best value with book cheap flight tickets from New York to Anchorage or compare flight tickets from Orlando to Anchorage.

Conclusion: Make This Anchorage Summer Unforgettable

There’s nothing like Anchorage summer. From hiking and wildlife to cultural festivals and glacier adventures, this city offers something for everyone. With long daylight hours, friendly locals, and endless things to do, your summer vacation will be full of memories.

Don’t wait until the last minute—start planning now. Search for lowest airfares from Cleveland to Anchorage, compare cheap round-trip flights to Anchorage, and book your adventure today.