Anchorage began as a railroad construction camp site on the banks of Ship Creek in the early 1900s. The boom was brief, coming to halt during World War I and the worldwide influenza epidemic. Anchorage languished until military construction during World War II gave it another jumpstart. Despite a devastating earthquake in 1964, residents rebuilt and saw another boom during the construction of the trans-Alaska pipeline.
Today, downtown Anchorage is alive with activity. Visitors and locals dine in trendy restaurants on wild caught seafood and locally grown produce. Shops feature Alaska artwork and gifts, the latest in men’s and women’s fashions as well as gourmet cakes, chocolates and coffee.
Take advantage of the many museums within walking distance. The Anchorage Museum features Alaska Native artifacts, hands on science exhibits and contemporary art by some of the best local talent. See what early Anchorage life was like for an officer of the law at the Alaska Law Enforcement Museum or explore the lives of the state’s military service members at the Alaska Veterans Museum.
Get out and stretch with a bike, run or walk along the Tony Knowles Coast Trail. The 11-mile trail begins in Downtown Anchorage on Second Avenue and offers panoramic views of mountains and ocean. Moose and waterfowl are frequently seen from the trail. Groomed for skiing in the winter, the trail is a great cross-country skiing adventure as well.
Delaney Park is the oldest park in the city and was a firebreak for early residents. It was later turned into an airstrip and golf course. Now the 13-block long park is used for a pick-up game of soccer, football, Frisbee or softball. On a windy day, kite enthusiasts fill the sky with a rainbow of colors and designs.
A trip to Downtown Anchorage wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Ship Creek. In addition to being the birthplace of Anchorage, the creek is also home to king and silver salmon runs. If the tide is coming in, the banks will be full of anglers. No gear? No worries, local businesses have fishing licenses and rental poles, boots and tackle.
