Top Anchorage Day Trips

Glacier View & Wildlife Anchorage Adventure Tour

Nature lovers can spend the day exploring the Matanuska Glacier on a hiking tour that traverses the glacier’s picturesque terrain. Along the way, your guide teaches you about the dynamic glacial features including seracs, moulons, and crevasses. While it is easy to get views of the glacier on your own, a guided hike on the glacier itself provides a completely different perspective of the otherworldly landscape.

Matanuska Glacier Hike Day Tour

10 hoursFree Cancellation

Experience Alaska’s wildlife and landscapes without planning a complex route from Anchorage on your own. This group tour combines glacier views, mountain scenery, wildlife encounters, and historic stops into one well-rounded day through Chugach National Forest and beyond. Along the way, your guide shares local insight and photography tips to help you get more out of the experience and your photos.

PRISTINE - Wilderness, Wildlife, Glacier Experience in Anchorage

6 hoursFree Cancellation

Door to Door Service and Experience with our guided tour pick up in Anchorage. All gear needed is supplied, as well as snacks and water. You will experience a Dog Sledding Experience with Professional Mushers Guests work directly with experienced mushers and energetic sled dogs, with opportunities to ride or drive the sled themselves — depending on comfort level — for a truly immersive experience. Designed for Comfort, Ease, and Access Hotel pickup and drop-off, all necessary gear, and expert local guides are included. The logistics are handled so guests can fully focus on the experience.

Guided Dog Sledding Adventure Tour, Anchorage Hotel Pickup

Explore the rugged wilderness around Anchorage, Alaska with the help of your expert guide on this private tour. Sit back and relax as you go straight from your hotel to a short tour of Anchorage then onto the scenic Glenn Highway. Visit a reindeer farm before heading up into the mountains to the stunning Hatcher Pass. Your day includes a stop in Palmer and a scenic nature stroll before returning to your hotel.

Hatcher Pass Views, Reindeer & Iditarod Dogs, Anchorage Pick Up

The Turnagain Arm in the Gulf of Alaska boasts abundant Alaskan wildlife within easy access of Anchorage. Learn about the local ecosystem from a guide with extensive knowledge of the area as you drive down the peninsula, with opportunities to spot wild animals in their natural environment as you go. Includes a visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and a drive past the glaciers on Portage Glacier Road.

Wildlife and Glaciers with a walk in the Rainforest

4 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Anchorage Trolley's 1-Hour City Tour

1 hourFree Cancellation

Be awed by supersized glaciers and the hardy wildlife of the tundra on this full-day tour through the rugged Alaskan wilderness. Departing from Anchorage, drive along a scenic byway to the Turnagain Arm of the Cook Inlet, framed by the dramatic Chugach and Kenai mountain ranges. Cruise on the lake that laps against the ancient blue ice of Portage Glacier, stop for lunch at a cozy lodge, and get an up-close look at Alaskan wildlife such as caribou, musk ox, and lynk at a conservation center.

Glaciers and Wildlife: Super Scenic Day Tour from Anchorage

Alaska Railroad Anchorage to Seward Round Trip Same Day Return

14 hours 30 minutes

4.6

(404)

from $226

We make it easy to see it all in one day! Relax on the coach as you enjoy the beauty of Turnagain Arm. On the cruise get ready to view one of the largest concentration of glaciers in Alaska. Weather, ice conditions and wildlife activity changes daily and our captains may adjust the route to provide the best cruise experience while keeping your safety and comfort a top priority. We take pride in ensuring that your time with us is an enjoyable memory that becomes a favorite highlight of your Alaska vacation. We operate first-class catamarans. Due to their dual hull design, these powerful high-speed catamarans are extremely stable and able to smoothly navigate through the narrow fjords and passages that lead us to the face of massive glaciers. By operating safely and efficiently, Phillips Cruises & Tours provides a comfortable cruise and our No Seasickness Guarantee assures nervous cruisers the confidence that they will enjoy our cruise without any unpleasant effects.

Prince William Sound 26 Glacier Cruise and Coach Package

Prince William Sound 26 Glacier Cruise and Coach Package

11 hoursFree Cancellation

This exclusive, small-group hike on the Matanuska Glacier is a once-in-a-lifetime experience which will leave you with a greater appreciation for one of nature’s most fascinating phenomena. Discover your inner glaciologist as you traverse across ice fields, hearing the cracking sounds of the glacier moving, and learn about the makings of the glacier in detail from your expert guide. Round off the adventure with local honey and wine tasting.

Hike Matanuska Glacier w/Alaska Local Honey, Wine Tasting

8 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Set out on a nocturnal adventure in search of the elusive northern lights with this photography-focused tour departing from Anchorage. Get picked up at your hotel and go in search of the aurora borealis with a small group. Led by a professional photographer guide, learn new photography skills and gain insight into the science behind the aurora borealis. No photography experience is needed to join this tour.

Anchorage Aurora Tour and Northern Lights Photo

6 hoursFree Cancellation

Experience the natural wonder of Alaska's Matanuska Glacier with our full-day guided tour. Beginning with a convenient pickup from downtown Anchorage, you'll embark on a scenic two-hour journey, driving through landscapes of towering mountains. Along the way, we'll stop at local eateries, offering you the chance to purchase lunch. Upon reaching the glacier, a seasoned guide will equip you with crampons, making glacier navigation safe and manageable. Then, an all-terrain vehicle will transport you to the glacier's base. Here, you'll set off on foot to explore the glacier's icy expanse, discovering fascinating ice formations and gaining insight into the glacier's natural history from your knowledgeable guide. After this unforgettable experience, we'll journey back to Anchorage, ensuring a comfortable drop-off in downtown. This tour is a perfect blend of adventure, education, and scenic beauty, offering an in-depth encounter with one of Alaska's most impressive glaciers.

Full-Day Matanuska Glacier Hike And Tour

8 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Get out of the city and discover the stunning scenery that surrounds Anchorage. This small-group tour takes you south along the Seward Highway to soak up ocean and mountain views on the way to Alyeska Ski Area where an an aerial tram takes you 2,300 feet (700 meters) above sea level. Afterward, visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center to learn how sanctuary cares for the Last Frontier’s injured and orphaned animals and see resident wildlife including grizzly bear, moose, caribou, and musk ox.

Aerial Tram and Wildlife Center tour from Anchorage

6 hoursFree Cancellation

Full-Day Matanuska Glacier Small-Group Excursion

Immerse yourself in Alaska's icy beauty—without the hassle of organizing logistics—with this small-group guided hike on Matanuska Glacier. Departing from Anchorage, enjoy the views en route to the glacier where your guide leads you across the frozen expanse, unraveling the glacier's secrets and geological marvels while you marvel at towering ice formations and navigate crevasses. Essential gear including Yaktrax, jacket, hat, and mitten is provided for your comfort and safety.

Matanuska Glacier Guided Hike from Anchorage with Gear Included

Step into Alaska’s frozen heart on the Matanuska Glacier Adventure Tour—a full-day journey that’s as breathtaking as it is unforgettable. Travel in comfort in our new Mercedes Sprinter Vans from Anchorage along the scenic Glenn Highway, where every mile reveals towering peaks and sweeping valley views. Stop in the charming town of Palmer before arriving at the crown jewel of the trip—the mighty Matanuska Glacier. Guided by local experts, you’ll walk across ancient ice, explore glittering blue crevasses, and capture once-in-a-lifetime photos. This moderate adventure blends Alaska’s raw beauty with the thrill of exploration, offering a perfect mix of comfort, discovery, and awe. For travelers who want to feel Alaska—not just see it.

Matanuska Glacier Guided Hike – Anchorage Pickup

9 hoursFree Cancellation

If you've never been on a hike during the winter, you need to give it a shot. Winter hiking is a blast, and it's great for the mind and body during long periods of dark & cold. This tour holds plenty of opportunity for photos, and a comprehensive variety of the natural elements found in the boreal forests of Alaska, as well as a stop at a local waterfall. Sound like your style? • Hike along Chugach State Park's Eagle River and see ice-covered Barbara Falls! • Perfect for solo travelers and couples. • Enjoy breathtaking views of towering vistas. Amazing landscapes await your camera! • Learn about Alaska's glaciated valleys and boreal forests from an experienced gude. • Opportunity for wildlife sightings, including moose, hare, voles, and porcupine! Join us on a classic Alaskan adventure today!

Winter Valley and Forest Hike

5 hoursFree Cancellation

Discover Alaska’s majestic scenery and encounter the state’s Big Five with ease during a small-group tour from Anchorage to a premier conservation center. Relax and soak up the scenery during a smooth drive along Turnagain Arm while somebody else keeps their eyes on the road and shares little nuggets about the area and wildlife. Plus, delve into the local culture at a small town brewery for beer tasting.

Wildlife Center with Lunch and Local Beer Sampling

4 to 5 hoursFree Cancellation

Travel north from Anchorage through the MatSu Valley to the mushing capital of the world and go for a sled dog ride! Take in the sights while you let us do the driving en route to Willow, AK where you’ll experience a real Iditarod musher’s home kennel and witness their enthusiastic canine athletes. Go for an exhilarating overland sled dog ride powered by a team of authentic Alaska Huskies, and learn all about the sport of mushing and the world famous 1000-mile Iditarod Sled Dog Race. You’ll go for a dog-powered ride in a specially designed 2-person cart with your own personal musher and the chance to pet some friendly fluffy Alaska huskies! This 5.5 hour round-trip adventure will be one you won’t forget. Approximately 1.5 hour drive each way with 1.5+ hours at the kennel. Wheeled carts are used in summer (June-Sept.) & sleds in winter when there is sufficient snow on the ground. HOTEL PICKUP AVAILABLE IN WINTER ONLY; CONTACT TO ARRANGE. GROUPS OF 6< CONTACT FRONTIER TOURS TO BOOK.

Sled Dog Ride and Scenic Drive from Anchorage

5 hoursFree Cancellation

Discover the essence of Anchorage on this comprehensive full-day tour. With an Alaskan guide, explore the city's rich history and unique culture while enjoying stunning natural landscapes. Visit iconic sites, including Earthquake Park and Flattop Mountain, and take a scenic drive to Girdwood for breathtaking views and a hike to a waterfall. The itinerary includes a visit to the Heritage Center and an engaging walk along the Potter Marsh wildlife trail. Perfect for travelers eager to experience the hidden gems of Anchorage. - Duration: 10 hours, including hotel pick-up at 8:30 AM - Group size of up to 6 participants for a personalized experience - Includes visits to significant historical sites and nature walks - Customizable options available for a private tour experience

Full Day Anchorage Tour with Alaskan Guide

Matanuska Glacier Summer Tour

Dreaming of Denali’s towering peak or the 400-foot wall of ice at Knik Glacier? This 235-mile drive from Anchorage to Denali National Park delivers both. Enjoy Cook Inlet views from Arctic Valley Road, hike Chugach State Park to Thunderbird Falls, visit Eklutna Village Historical Park, and see the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race start at Willow Lake. Purchase one tour per car, not per person. Everyone listens together! After booking, you can check your email before downloading the Tour Guide App by Action, entering your unique password, and accessing your tour. The preceding steps require good internet/Wi-Fi access. Simply follow the audio instructions and the route from there. New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want. This is not an entrance ticket to attractions along the route. Check opening hours before your visit.

Parks Hwy: Anchorage to Denali Self-Guided GPS Audio Driving Tour

5 to 6 hoursFree Cancellation

Traveling from Anchorage to Whittier Cruise Port transforms into an unforgettable adventure filled with stunning landscapes and wildlife. This scenic transfer takes you through Turnagain Arm, where breathtaking glacier views await, along with a visit to Alaska’s renowned wildlife conservation center. Designed for cruise passengers, this tour ensures you experience the best of Southcentral Alaska while heading to your cruise terminal, maximizing your last day on land. - Enjoy a scenic drive from Anchorage to Whittier Cruise Port - Discover the natural beauty of Turnagain Arm and glacier views - Visit Alaska's wildlife conservation center along the way - Specifically designed for cruise passengers to enhance their journey

Anchorage to Whittier Cruise Transfer with Wildlife

Glacier View & Wildlife Anchorage Adventure Tour

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Must-Dos in Anchorage

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What are people saying about Anchorage

Jason_C, Sept 2026

For seniors or handicap...

For seniors or handicap riders that can’t walk too far this is a good trip…, but if you choose to do some hiking you have that option also..Dustin was very accommodating and informal, relaxed and easy to conservation with….would recommend again …Thank You DUSTIN

Aerial Tram and Wildlife Center tour from Anchorage

Rohan_D, Sept 2026

Great Scenery and Up Close Animal Encounters

Great way to see the start of the Seward highway. The Alyeska resort has great views and the tram ride is fun. We even saw moose on the way up! Having David at the conservation center was especially helpful and he shared a ton of great facts about the animals (and throughout the tour). Getting up close to the animals at the conservation center was so cool!

Wildlife and Glaciers with a walk in the Rainforest

Deb_B, Sept 2026

A Perfect Day! Small Group. Good Guide and Close-Up Bear!

We took the Wildlife and Glaciers with a Walk in the Rainforest Tour, and it was the highlight of our time in Anchorage. With only six people in our group, the excursion felt like a private, personalized experience rather than a crowded commercial tour. Our guide and driver, Brian, was great. He was knowledgeable and kept us entertained. Brian shared local insights during the stunning drive down the Seward Highway. The itinerary was the perfect snapshot of Alaska's best features, but the highlight was visiting the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. We got to see a large brown bear go for a swim in the river. He was so close to us that I was able to capture some incredible pictures using my cell phone. Between the close-up wildlife encounters, the coastal views at Beluga Point, and the beautiful, peaceful walk through the coastal rainforest in Portage Valley, this trip packs everything you want into a perfect half-day pace. I cannot recommend this trip highly enough!

Anchorage Aurora Tour and Northern Lights Photo

Richard_D, Sept 2026

Do This!!

We had a great time learning about and searching for the Northern Lights! Ben was very knowledgeable and helpful. We could tell he wanted us to have a great experience. He went above and beyond to find the perfect spot and conditions for us to see the lights…and we did see them! Thanks, Ben, for helping us accomplish one of the big items on our bucket list!! It was well worth pulling the “all nighter” our first night in Alaska!!

Glaciers and Wildlife: Super Scenic Day Tour from Anchorage

Angela_P, Sept 2026

Great way to explore from the comfort of a smaller vehicle

Very relaxed experience (possibly because we were at end of season) that was very enjoyable. Boat ride was fun and awesome to be so close to the glacier. Exploring the conservancy by car and foot was a nice mix and stopping for photos along the drive was a welcome surprise. Scott was an excellent guide.

Matanuska Glacier Summer Tour

sgnaquin, Aug 2026

An Amazing Matanuska...

An Amazing Matanuska Glacier Adventure with Bill! Our Matanuska Glacier Summer Tour with Greatland Adventures was truly one of the highlights of our Alaska trip! We were four women in our 70s, each with different levels of fitness and hiking ability, and our guide, Bill, was absolutely exceptional. He quickly assessed what each of us was comfortable doing and tailored our glacier hike so that everyone could participate, feel safe, and still have a wonderful sense of adventure. Bill was patient, knowledgeable, encouraging, and incredibly attentive. He never made us feel rushed or that our ages or varying abilities were a limitation. Instead, he gave us the confidence to experience this magnificent glacier at a pace that worked for all four of us. Walking on the Matanuska Glacier was spectacular, but Bill made the experience even more memorable. His knowledge, personality, and genuine concern for our safety and enjoyment made all the difference. For anyone in their 60s, 70s or beyond who might be wondering, “Can I really do a glacier tour?” — YES! With a guide like Bill, absolutely! Thank you, Bill and Greatland Adventures, for giving four adventurous women in their 70s an Alaska memory we will be talking about for years.

Anchorage Trolley's 1-Hour City Tour

Nancy_B, Aug 2026

Anchorage City Trolley Tour

Great overview of the city. Our Tour Guide, Alice, was hilarious! Great songs, corny jokes, puns and all. If you don't like cheesy, you may not like this. Even with all the jokes, she was very knowledgeable about Anchorage and was serious when things like the 1964 earthquake were discussed. She even took us out of the way to see a moose….alas they had moved on by then. Great if you are crunched for time but would like to hit the highlights!

Alaska Railroad Anchorage to Seward Round Trip Same Day Return

Kailey_G, Jul 2026

Highly Recommend!

The round-trip train ride from Anchorage to Seward was one of the highlights of our Alaska trip! The scenery along the route was absolutely breathtaking, and the guides shared so many interesting facts about the area's history, wildlife, and landmarks, making the journey both educational and entertaining. We had a great time exploring Seward before heading back, and it was the perfect way to experience this beautiful coastal town. While it's a long day, it is absolutely worth it for the incredible views and the amazing wildlife we saw along the way. If you're visiting Alaska, I highly recommend this train ride—it was an unforgettable experience!

Hatcher Pass Views, Reindeer & Iditarod Dogs, Anchorage Pick Up

Jennifer_A, Jul 2026

More than a tour- an adventure

What a fantastic experience! Don, our guide, was incredibly knowledgeable about the area’s history, people, and land, making every stop interesting and meaningful. He regularly checked in with the group to make sure guests were seeing and experiencing what mattered most to them. Personable, engaging, and easy to talk with. Don had a great sense of humor that kept the entire experience fun. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone looking for an informative, personalized, and memorable adventure!

Bears, Trains, & Icebergs Tour

Susan_M, Jul 2026

Had a blast

Be dressed for the weather. It rained 90%of our day. On the plus side there were no mosquitoes We had a great time riding the train in the morning, riding in the van with 2 enthusiastic young lady guides. Lunch was plentiful and yummy. Then we got in the rafts and one of our drivers also was also our paddler. She was great. My 86 year old Mom was a bit nervous, but Jess made her very comfortable. Fun trip, despite the rain. But better than sunny, humid and mosquitoes

Full-Day Matanuska Glacier Hike And Tour

Jane_Z, Jun 2026

The hike on the Matanuska...

The hike on the Matanuska Glacier was super fun. The two guides (Emory and Dominic) who took us were very knowledgeable and helpful when we had to cross a few truckier spots. The views are amazing but it is an active hike - not for anyone unsteady on their feet. The drive out there was beautiful and we had a fantastic driver - Rexy - who was professional, friendly and offered lots of great information and history of the area. All in all, it was a really great excursion and I would highly recommend making it part of your trip to this area of Alaska

Prince William Sound 26 Glacier Cruise and Coach Package

steve_s, Jun 2026

Wonderful and informative experience!

Wonderful experience! The staff were attentive and really respectful! Answered all questions and were extremely helpful throughout the trip. Really enjoyed the facts given by the captain and crew. I would recommend this activity to anyone coming to this area! Highlight of my trip!