Family Friendly Things to Do in Anchorage

Anchorage is the perfect destination for families who want to see Alaska’s beauty while enjoying fun and educational activities. Whether visiting in the summer when the sun hardly sets or in the winter when snow transforms the landscape, Anchorage offers a variety of attractions that cater to all ages. From wildlife encounters to interactive museums and breathtaking outdoor adventures, there is no shortage of ways to create lasting memories. Here are some of the best family-friendly things to do in Anchorage.

Anchorage Museum

For a mix of culture, history, and hands-on learning, the Anchorage Museum is a perfect stop. The museum's Discovery Center is a highlight for families, featuring interactive science exhibits, a planetarium, and activities that make learning fun. Kids can experiment with physics, explore space, and engage in creative play. The museum also showcases visually fascinating exhibits on Alaska history, Indigenous cultures, and art, providing an educational experience that appeals to visitors of all ages.

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Tony Knowles Coastal Trail

For families who love the outdoors, spend the afternoon cruising along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, a paved scenic path that stretches for 11 miles along the coastline. Whether you choose to walk, bike, or even cross country ski in winter, the trail offers stunning views of Cook Inlet, the Chugach Mountains and, on a clear day, Denali in the distance. Along the way, keep an eye out for moose, bald eagles, and other wildlife. If traveling with younger kids, consider starting at Elderberry Park in downtown Anchorage, which has a playground and a great picnic area. Bike rentals can be found downtown near the start of the Coastal Trail that cater to families, with kid's bikes, kid carrier bikes, and kid trailers available for rent. 

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Alaska Zoo

Housing a wide variety of Arctic and sub-Arctic animals, the Alaska Zoo is a kid-favorite activity in Anchorage. Wander the forested paths to animal enclosures and learn about the incredible wildlife that calls this facility home, including polar bears, brown bears, mountain goats, moose, musk ox, birds of prey, and more. Check out their events calendar for family-friendly activities like story time, tours, and animal feedings. 

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Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

Located only an hour’s drive south from Anchorage, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is well worth the trip. This non-profit sanctuary is open year-round and provides a home for injured and orphaned animals, including bears, bison, lynx, and caribou. Notably, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center boasts some of the largest wildlife habitat areas in the United States, featuring spacious enclosures that closely resemble the animals' natural environments. Families can enjoy a leisurely walk along the boardwalks and paths to observe these magnificent animals in expansive, natural settings. The center also offers educational programs and feeding demonstrations, making it a fantastic opportunity for kids to learn about Alaska wildlife conservation efforts.

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Alaska Native Heritage Center

A fantastic way to introduce kids to Alaska’s rich Indigenous cultures is by visiting the Alaska Native Heritage Center. This interactive cultural center features exhibits, storytelling, and traditional dance performances. The outdoor village sites allow families to see authentic Indigenous dwellings and learn about the traditions of Alaska Native communities. Hands-on activities, such as carving demonstrations and crafts, make it an engaging and educational experience for all ages. Get ready to step into history, where stories come to life!

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Alaska Aviation Museum

For families with aviation enthusiasts, the Alaska Aviation Museum is a fascinating stop. Located near Lake Hood - the world’s busiest seaplane base - this museum showcases Alaska’s rich aviation history through vintage aircraft, interactive exhibits, and flight simulators. Kids can climb into old cockpits, watch floatplanes take off and land, and learn about the daring bush pilots who helped shape Alaska. The museum is both fun and informative, offering a unique glimpse into the state’s deep connection with aviation. Prepare for takeoff...of your imagination!

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Day Trips on the Alaska Railroad

A ride on the Alaska Railroad is an unforgettable way to experience Alaska’s stunning landscapes. Families can take a day trip north to the charming town of Talkeetna, a quirky and historic village with great food, local shops, and breathtaking views of Denali. In the summer, kids will love visiting the riverfront, checking out the Talkeetna Historical Society Museum, and trying a delicious sweet treat from the famous Talkeetna Roadhouse.

Another fantastic rail journey is the trip south to Whittier, a small port town surrounded by mountains and glaciers. Families can explore the stunning coastline by taking a kid-friendly glacier cruise that aligns with the train schedule. Or, continue heading south to the Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop, where you can disembark the train for independent or guided hiking, or an exciting float trip among the icebergs of Spencer Glacier followed by a scenic float down the Placer River (suitable for ages 5 and up). Both destinations offer scenic beauty and plenty of family-friendly activities, making train travel a fun and relaxing way to see more of Alaska. 

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Alyeska Aerial Tram

The Alyeska Aerial Tram, located in Girdwood about 45 minutes south of Anchorage, offers one of the best panoramic views in Alaska. The tram takes families up Mount Alyeska, where they can enjoy breathtaking views of glaciers, mountain peaks, and the Turnagain Arm. At the top, there are hiking trails, a family-friendly deli, and a small museum and gift shop. Kids will love the excitement of the tram ride, and everyone will appreciate the incredible scenery. Whether you visit in the summer for hiking or in the winter for skiing, the Alyeska Aerial Tram is a fantastic family adventure. 

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Eklutna Lake

Eklutna Lake, located about 40 minutes north of Anchorage, is a beautiful destination for a family day trip. The glacial-fed lake offers a variety of outdoor activities, including kayaking, hiking, and biking. The serene setting, beach access, and crystal-clear waters make it an ideal place for kids to explore nature. There are easy hiking trails suitable for young adventurers, and families can rent bikes or kayaks to explore the area further. The lake’s peaceful environment and stunning views make it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors.

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Kincaid Park 

Kincaid Park is one of Anchorage’s best outdoor recreation areas, offering a wide range of activities for families. In summer, go for a walk or a bike ride on the southern end of the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail (more on that above). Less than a mile from the Kincaid Chalet, the trail offers access to a beautiful rocky beach – a great spot for a picnic on a nice day. Or, enjoy a thrilling mountain bike ride on the miles of singletrack trails woven through the park. Find a map at the trailheads for information on difficulty ratings so you can choose the right trail for your family. There’s also a playground near the Chalet. In winter, you can cross country ski the groomed trails, take a fat tire bike on the singletrack trails, or go sledding by the Chalet. One of its hidden gems is the 18-hole frisbee golf (disc golf) course, which provides a fun and challenging activity for all ages. The course winds through wooded areas with breathtaking views of Cook Inlet, and it’s a great way to spend an active afternoon outdoors. 
 

Anchorage is a wonderful destination for families looking to combine adventure, education, and fun, no matter the season. Whether you’re exploring glaciers, watching wildlife, or discovering Alaska’s rich cultural history, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. With its stunning natural beauty and variety of attractions, Anchorage provides endless opportunities for families to create unforgettable memories.