Top Anchorage Day Trips

Glacier View & Wildlife Anchorage Adventure Tour

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

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

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

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

11 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

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

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

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

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

8 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

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

Turn your pre-cruise travel day into an incredible Alaskan adventure. Designed specifically for travelers heading to the Whittier Cruise Port, this seamless transfer picks you up directly from your Anchorage hotel, safely secures your heavy luggage, and delivers you straight to the ship's terminal for a stress-free boarding experience. Skip the hassle of hauling bags around downtown or waiting hours for a standard, crowded bus. Instead, ride in premium comfort while a local guide introduces you to Alaska’s stunning coastal landscapes. Along the scenic Seward Highway and Turnagain Arm, you'll visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center for guaranteed close-up encounters with bears and moose, and enjoy iconic photo stops at Beluga Point and Portage Lake. We expertly monitor the strict Whittier Tunnel time slots and coordinate directly with cruise boarding schedules. Relax knowing you will arrive at the port perfectly on time—secure your hassle-free pre-cruise connection today!

Anchorage to Whittier Cruise Transfer Tour with Port Drop-Off

The Knik Glacier off-roading and hiking tour stands out because it combines two adventures in one—an exciting ride through true Alaskan wilderness in a specially modified Jeep, followed by an up-close hike to one of the state’s most dynamic and impressive glaciers. Unlike crowded trails elsewhere, the Knik area is remote, quiet, and constantly changing, with shifting icebergs, bright blue melt pools, and dramatic mountain views that make every visit unique. Guests get the thrill of rugged off-road travel, the beauty of glacier trekking, and unforgettable photo opportunities—all without needing technical skills—creating an authentic, immersive Alaska experience you won’t find on other tours.

Knik Glacier Off Roading and Hiking

9 hoursFree Cancellation

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

8 hoursFree Cancellation

Experience the breathtaking landscape of the Turnagain Arm on a half-day tour with an informative guide. Ride along the scenic Seward Parkway to the Anchorage Coastal Wildlife Refuge and Beluga Point, stopping for photo ops and wildlife observation. Visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, a large nature preserve where injured animals are rehabilitated. Continue to the town of Girdwood, then travel up into the Chugach Mountains for another great vantage point on the Turnagain Arm. Includes round-trip transportation from Anchorage.

Turnagain Arm Tour

Matanuska Glacier Summer Tour

8 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

Bears, Trains, & Icebergs Tour

Explore Chugach State Park's Eagle River trail system without the risk of getting lost when you hike on a small-group guided tour. Lovers of the outdoors won't want to miss the opportunity to hike through boreal forests and glaciated valleys, to see where salmon spawn, and to spot wildlife like bears, moose, and birds. Meet your guide at a designated spot and enjoy a moderate five-hour hike.

Summer Valley and Forest Hike

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

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

Download GuideAlong’s self-guided audio tour bundle for Anchorage to Homer and Seward drives across the Kenai Peninsula. Includes Potter Marsh, Girdwood, and the Alyeska Aerial Tram, Beluga Point, Bird Point, Portage Valley, Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, Kenai River at Cooper Landing, Russian River Falls, Ninilchik, and Homer Spit. GPS-triggered stories play automatically with offline access as you reach Summit Lake, Mount Iliamna Viewpoint, Exit Glacier, and Kenai Fjords National Park. Enjoy the freedom to explore offline at your own pace, spending more time at places that interest you and bypassing any that don’t. Stories, tips, and directions play automatically based on your location Travel at your own pace Tour offline using GPS. No cell service or WiFi is needed Suggested itineraries for half, full, or multi-day use No time limits or expiry, and free updates Like having a tour guide along for the drive Purchase one tour per vehicle.

Self Guided Driving Audio Tour Alaska Bundle

7 to 8 hoursFree Cancellation

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Must-Dos in Anchorage

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What are people saying about Anchorage

Wildlife and Glaciers with a walk in the Rainforest

Brenda_W, Sept 2026

This was a really fun...

This was a really fun experience, and our tour guide Melissa was the best!!! She shared so much information, history, fun facts about Alaska and pointed out everything for us to see. I highly recommend asking for her at our guide! Was a small group tour, but we had alot of fun.

Glacier View & Wildlife Anchorage Adventure Tour

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

Hike Matanuska Glacier w/Alaska Local Honey, Wine Tasting

Cherri_H, Sept 2026

September Glacier Hike

From our driver to our glacier guide, the entire day was an incredible experience from beginning to end. There was something for everyone, and throughout the glacier hike, we felt completely safe and well taken care of. The views were absolutely breathtaking, and walking across the glacier with the spikes gave me the confidence to truly enjoy the experience without worrying about my footing. Our guide was fantastic and made the hike both fun and incredibly informative. We learned so much about glacier geography, formations, composition, and how glaciers continue to change, all while taking in the amazing landscape around us. The stop at the small local honey and wine maker on the way back was the perfect way to end the day. We learned that they keep their bees in a school bus, which was such a fascinating and unexpected detail! The honey was delicious, and I ended up purchasing several jars as gifts for friends. I highly recommend this tour, especially for anyone who wants the incredible experience of actually walking on a glacier but may not be able to do a helicopter tour. It was an unforgettable day and an experience I will always remember!

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.

Glacier & Wildlife Discovery Tour

Noel_F, Sept 2026

The tour is great for...

The tour is great for seeing the Portage glacier, which was a highlight. Also enjoyed the salmon viewing, and Wildlife Center. That allows you to see all the animals you would expect to see in Alaska. The first stop on the tour to see Beluga Whales was cold with little to see. Definitely a great tour for getting a great taste of Alaska. It would be even better one hour shorter.

Aerial Tram and Wildlife Center tour from Anchorage

Brenda_G, Aug 2026

David our tour guide was...

David our tour guide was so very informative about what things were and how they were made. He gave us some great information about all the animals that you could tell he was passionate about. We were one of the few people who were able to see the Beluga whales! Such a beautiful tour would highly recommend it!!

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!

Prince William Sound 26 Glacier Cruise and Coach Package

Ruby_G, Jul 2026

Prince of sound, must see!

Prince of sound was an exceptional experience. Our driver was very helpful, knowledgeable and patient. Tour bus to Whittier was very nice and clean. Cruise was highly enjoyable. It was a 5+ hours cruise but time went by quickly. It was raining most of the day but Captain of the cruise made it highly enjoyable. He stopped at various places when he saw wildlife. Highlight of the trip was sea otters, birds, water falls, bears and the glaciers. Cruise staff were excellent. Lunch was part of the offering and was delicious. We were pleasantly surprised to see specialized drinks as options for our caffeine and alcohol intake. I highly recommend this trip.

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