Which Anchorage Tours & Things To Do To Choose? Our Best 15 Picks

Anchorage is a city that offers a surprising variety of tours and activities for every traveler, whether you’re into rugged wilderness, wildlife encounters, or cultural explorations. Its proximity to glaciers, mountains, and abundant wildlife means that no matter your interest, you’ll find something memorable.

We particularly love the Glacier Hike on Matanuska Glacier — a fantastic way to experience Alaskan ice up close — and the Wildlife and Glaciers Day Tour, which combines scenic views with animal sightings.

For those seeking adventure with a bit of adrenaline, the Grand Knik Helicopter Tour offers breathtaking aerial views of ice and mountains.

Whatever your style, Anchorage’s diverse offerings make it a top destination for outdoor lovers and curious explorers alike.

Quick Overview

This list covers a wide range of tours, from day hikes on glaciers, like the Matanuska Glacier Hike Day Tour, to wildlife safaris at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. For adrenaline junkies, the Grand Knik Helicopter Tour. Whether you want a scenic outdoor adventure or an immersive city experience, Anchorage delivers.

1. Glacier Hike on Matanuska Glacier – Best Vacation Value

Rating: 5.0/5 (391 reviews)
Price: $325.00 per person
Duration: 7 hours 30 minutes

Explore outside Anchorage with a local guide who knows where to find the best wildlife and glacier views. This tour ventures into the Chugach National Forest, where you might spot moose, bears, and other animals. You’ll visit Glacier Valley, home to hanging glaciers and a pristine glacier lake. The tour is family-friendly and designed for small groups—max 12—making it intimate and personalized.

Reviewers praise guides like Jet and Patrick for their knowledge and patience, making it a top-rated experience for anyone wanting a full-day outing immersed in nature.

Bottom Line: This tour offers excellent value for a comprehensive glacier experience combined with wildlife spotting, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want guided expertise.

2. Dog Sledding Adventure in Willow, Alaska

Rating: 5.0/5 (342 reviews)
Price: $243.00 per person
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes

Famed for the Iditarod, Willow’s dog sledding tours give you a taste of this iconic Alaskan sport. At a family-owned kennel, you will meet the huskies, help harness the team, and sled along private trails with views of Denali. It’s a private experience, making it ideal for families or small groups wanting an authentic and personal adventure.

Reviewers highlight the friendly, knowledgeable staff and the dogs’ genuine enthusiasm, which makes this a memorable activity.

Bottom Line: For around $243, this hands-on sledding experience is a great way to connect with Alaska’s dogs and landscape, especially for animal lovers.

3. Matanuska Glacier Hike Day Tour

Rating: 5.0/5 (336 reviews)
Price: $309.00 per person
Duration: 10 hours

Spend a full day exploring the Matanuska Glacier on foot, traversing its seracs, moulons, and crevasses. A professional guide shares natural history and glacial features while ensuring your safety. The trip includes a comfortable van ride from Anchorage and a lunch overlooking the glacier. Guests praise guides like Lori for their expertise and friendliness.

The hike is perfect for those wanting a technical yet accessible glacier experience, with breathtaking views and photo opportunities galore.

Bottom Line: This full-day glacier adventure combines scenic sightseeing with educational insight, ideal for outdoor lovers and photo enthusiasts.

4. Grand Knik Helicopter Tour – 2 hours 3 landings – ANCHORAGE AREA

Rating: 5.0/5 (319 reviews)
Price: $719.97 per person
Duration: 2 hours

Skip the strenuous glacier hikes with this spectacular helicopter tour over Knik Glacier. You’ll take three landings—on an alpine area, an ice wall, and the glacier’s middle—where you can step out with your guide. The small group size enhances the experience, and you might spot mountain goats, Dall sheep, moose, and even bears in the summer.

Reviewers describe the safe, friendly pilots and the breathtaking scenery as unforgettable. It’s a great option if you prefer aerial views over physical exertion.

Bottom Line: For glacier vistas without the hike, this helicopter trip is a luxurious and cinematic way to see Alaska’s icy giants.

5. Glaciers and Wildlife: Super Scenic Day Tour from Anchorage

Rating: 5.0/5 (270 reviews)
Price: $235.00 per person
Duration: 8 hours

This full-day tour combines a lake cruise to Portage Glacier, visits to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and scenic drives along Turnagain Arm. You’ll see caribou, musk ox, lynx, and other native animals, with a lunch stop at a cozy lodge. The tour is praised for its informative guides and beautiful scenery.

Guests especially enjoy the up-close animal encounters and the chance to see Dall sheep, bears, and bald eagles. It’s suited for travelers wanting a comprehensive day in the wilderness, with a mix of wildlife and glacier views.

Bottom Line: This balanced tour offers wildlife, glaciers, and scenic drives—perfect for those who want a full-day outdoor experience.

6. Full-Day Tour in Turnagain

Rating: 5.0/5 (267 reviews)
Price: $157
Duration: 6 hours

Join a narrated tour exploring Turnagain Arm’s rugged mountains, glaciers, and wildlife. Highlights include visits to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where you may see brown bears and moose, and stops at Explorer Glacier and Byron Glacier. The trip ends with lunch in Girdwood, a charming mountain town.

Industry-standard reviews praise the knowledgeable guide and beautiful scenery. It’s a solid choice for travelers seeking a shorter, more relaxed day with plenty of wildlife sightings.

Bottom Line: For a half-day with rich scenery and wildlife, this tour delivers value and variety.

7. Tony Knowles Coastal Trail Scenic Bike Tour – MOST POPULAR

Rating: 5.0/5 (212 reviews)
Price: $139.00 per person
Duration: 3 hours

Experience Anchorage outdoors on a guided bike tour along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. Starting at Kincaid Park, you’ll ride past Cold War missile silos, looking out for moose and possibly Denali in the distance. Your guides will provide local insights on wildlife and history.

Reviewers mention seeing moose and a dead whale, making it a fun, active way to see the city’s natural surroundings. The bike rental is included, making it easy to participate.

Bottom Line: For those who prefer cycling over hiking, this scenic bike ride is a top choice, offering wildlife sightings and stunning views.

8. From Seward: Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise with Lunch

Rating: 4.9/5 (265 reviews)
Price: $272 per person
Duration: 7.5 hours

This cruise from Seward takes you into Kenai Fjords National Park for wildlife viewing of sea lions, seabirds, and orcas. You’ll see glaciers calving from tidewater glaciers, making it a spectacular day on the water.

The high-speed catamaran is stable and comfortable, ideal for viewing the fjords, mountains, and glaciers from close up. The tour includes lunch onboard. Nature lovers will appreciate the abundance of wildlife and the dramatic scenery.

Bottom Line: Perfect for sea and glacier enthusiasts, this cruise offers an immersive day immersed in Alaska’s coastal wilderness.

9. Full-Day Matanuska Glacier Hike And Tour

Rating: 5.0/5 (195 reviews)
Price: $310.00 per person
Duration: 8 hours 30 minutes

Combining scenic drives, a glacier hike, and local town visits, this full-day tour highlights Alaska’s largest accessible glacier. You’ll travel by van from Anchorage, stopping in Palmer for lunch before heading to the glacier. A seasoned guide will provide crampons and oversee your glacier walk, which includes navigating braided ice streams and crevasses.

Reviewers appreciate the knowledgeable guides and easy hikes with amazing views. It’s great for adventure seekers who want a comprehensive glacier experience.

Bottom Line: For a longer, more immersive glacier adventure, this tour combines scenery, wildlife, and glacier exploration.

10. Glacier View & Wildlife Anchorage Adventure Tour

Rating: 5.0/5 (187 reviews)
Price: $157.00 per person
Duration: 7 hours

This small-group tour offers guaranteed wildlife encounters and an easy walk along Byron Glacier’s river. You’ll travel in luxury in a Mercedes, with hotel pickup included. Along the way, you’ll visit Beluga Point, the Ulu Factory, and the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.

The tour is praised for its relaxed pace and knowledgeable guides. It’s ideal for travelers who want an up-close wildlife experience without strenuous activity.

Bottom Line: If wildlife sightings and comfortable transportation are your priorities, this tour excels.

11. Downtown Anchorage FOOD & HISTORY Walking Tour — OUR MOST POPULAR!

Rating: 5.0/5 (175 reviews)
Price: $147.25 per person
Duration: 3 to 4 hours

Explore Anchorage’s culinary scene and local stories on this lively walking tour. You’ll stop at Humpy’s, Biscuitclub, Snow City Cafe, and Tent City Taphouse to sample seafood, reindeer sausage, and local beers. Plus, you’ll hear stories about sled dogs and Alaska’s past.

Reviewers love the informative guides and delicious tasting stops. It’s perfect for foodies and history buffs alike wanting a fun, relaxed city outing.

Bottom Line: For a tasty introduction to Anchorage’s food and lore, this tour offers a casual, engaging experience.

12. Anchorage City Tour w/ Taste of Wild Smoked Salmon & Reindeer Sausage

Rating: 4.5/5 (695 reviews)
Price: $69.00 per person
Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes

This city-focused tour combines driving and walking to see Ship Creek, Earthquake Park, and Point Woronzof. It includes tastings of smoked salmon and reindeer sausage, plus stories behind Alaska’s most iconic sights. Reviewers mention the friendly guide and interesting anecdotes. It’s a good option for those wanting a quick, affordable overview of Anchorage’s highlights with culinary samples.

Bottom Line: A budget-friendly choice for newcomers wanting a short, informative city tour with tasty treats.

13. Viator Exclusive: Go eBike Alaska on Tony Knowles Trail

Rating: 5.0/5 (169 reviews)
Price: $139.99 per person
Duration: 2 hours

Experience Alaska’s scenery from an e-bike along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. Your guide provides bikes and gear to make riding easy, even for beginners. Riders enjoy wildlife sightings, mountain views, and coastal vistas like Beluga Point, all without breaking a sweat.

Reviewers highlight the helpful guides and beautiful scenery. It’s perfect if you want a less strenuous, active way to see Anchorage’s natural beauty.

Bottom Line: An accessible and fun option for outdoor enthusiasts wanting to cover more ground in less time.

14. Wildlife and Glaciers with a walk in the Rainforest

Rating: 4.5/5 (670 reviews)
Price: $149.00 per person
Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes

This tour combines wildlife viewing with a walk through the rainforest near Turnagain Arm. You’ll visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, then drive past Portage Glacier, and explore Dena’ina land with a knowledgeable guide.

Look for bears, moose, salmon, and Dall sheep, all within easy reach of Anchorage. Reviewers comment on the informative guide and beautiful scenery, making it ideal for families or nature lovers.

Bottom Line: For a mixed experience of wildlife, glaciers, and rainforest, this tour offers a well-rounded day.

15. Summer Glacier Dogsledding Tour from Girdwood

Rating: 5.0/5 (161 reviews)
Price: $782.00 per person
Duration: 2 hours

In summer, dogsledding takes a different form with helicopter access to Punchbowl Glacier. You’ll fly from Girdwood to a remote camp, meet the mushing guides, and drive or ride a sled dog team across ice and snow. The experience includes puppies, a scenic helicopter flight, and learning about mushing.

Reviewers find it a once-in-a-lifetime experience, especially with the chance to drive a dog team. It’s best suited for those seeking an authentic and adventurous activity.

Bottom Line: For summer thrill-seekers and dog lovers, this dogsledding tour with helicopter access is unmatched in uniqueness.

How to Choose Your Anchorage Tour

When selecting a tour, consider your budget—from the affordable city and wildlife tours to the luxury helicopter ride—and your interests. If glacier exploration is your priority, the Glacier Hike on Matanuska Glacier provides a full-day, immersive experience.

For wildlife enthusiasts, the Wildlife and Glaciers Day Tour combines animals, glaciers, and scenic drives. If active outdoor fun calls, the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail Bike Tour or the eBike Alaska tours are excellent choices.

Timing also matters: summer offers glacier dogsledding and helicopter rides, whereas winter and early spring are best for hiking and wildlife spotting. Book early—especially for popular tours like the helicopter adventure—to secure your spot.

Final Thoughts

From spectacular glacier hikes and wildlife safaris to city walks and active biking, Anchorage’s tours cater to all interests and fitness levels. For a full wilderness immersion, try the Glacier Hike on Matanuska Glacier or the Full-Day Matanuska Glacier Hike and Tour. For those who prefer scenic views from above, the Grand Knik Helicopter Tour is unbeatable.

Travelers seeking city culture combined with local flavors should consider the Downtown Anchorage Food & History Walking Tour. No matter your choice, booking early will ensure you get the best experience. Anchorage’s diverse tours make it a top spot for adventure, wildlife, and culture — so start planning your Alaska adventure today.