Anchorage is emerging from its winter glow with longer and warmer days. Anchorage is captivating destination for spring break, and a wonderful playground for locals and residents alike. Whether you’re planning a family outing or a friend gathering, our city offers an exciting blend of outdoor activities, wildlife encounters, cultural experiences, and a flourishing art scene.

Plan an exciting scavenger hunt across Anchorage exploring the best of what the city has to offer this spring break!

For Snow Lovers

It is no secret that Anchorage’s mountains are the perfect playground for snow enthusiasts. If skiing and snowboarding are at the top of your spring break schedule, Alyeska Resort Ski Area in Girdwood has mountain experiences for skiers and riders of all abilities. Right in town, Hilltop Ski Area is the perfect place to get a few laps. If downhill is not your thing, remember that adjacent to Hilltop is Hillside Park, with 7.5 miles of groomed, wooded trails that cover every kind of cross-country ski terrain you may want. 

And the slopes aren't just for skis; everyone can enjoy the Tube Park at Arctic Valley Ski Area. It operates Thursday through Sunday, with tubing tickets available online.

A family skiing at Alyeska Resort. (Matt Hage)

Wildlife Encounters

The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is a sanctuary dedicated to caring for Alaska’s wildlife, and a truly Alaskan experience located just 47 miles from Anchorage. You may have visited in the summer, but did you know that you can cruise around their grounds in a kick sled during the winter? As a bonus, the animals love the snow; March is the perfect time to watch them frolic and play in a whole different way. 

An Anchorage favorite on the hillside is the Alaska Zoo, 23 acres of maintained trails where you can visit the Sitka black-tailed deer, the lynx, the golden eagle, the polar bear, and many more fascinating animals, adding an element of discovery to your spring break adventure.
 

Musk Oxen at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (Nicole Geils)

Museum Break

Anchorage’s museums have plenty to keep kids engaged over Spring Break. The Anchorage Museum’s Discovery Center and Spark!Lab feature hands-on science exhibits, invention stations, and creative play spaces built for curious minds. At the Alaska Native Heritage Center, families can explore exhibits and walk through outdoor village sites year-round. Add in smaller museums around town with dinosaurs, Ice Age animals, and quirky collections for even more kid-friendly options.

Art of the North Galleries at the Anchorage Museum

Nature Quest

Let the kids roam at the Alaska Botanical Garden, where hands-on classes, fun nature projects, and winding trails turn a regular afternoon into an outdoor adventure. From scavenger hunts to exploring forest paths, it’s an easy way to get everyone outside and moving.
 

Bears on Parade, painted by artist Jean Shadrach

Art Walk

Taking a self-guided public art tour of Anchorage is a great way to enjoy the vibrant street art that adorn the city’s buildings and alleyways. Families can engage in a creative scavenger hunt to find the murals that depict landscapes and wildlife, while friends can take the time to capture memorable photos with these works of art, adding a touch of cultural exploration to your spring break escapade. Some favorite murals include the Abundant Alaska mural by Kaydee Scarola, located behind Judy’s Cafe, the Rage City Vintage mural by Adam Shea definitely enlivening the Spenard area, the mural in Mountain View by artist Bisco, and the AK Alchemist mural by Devin Duel in the downtown area, will allow you to experience the color and vibrancy that these wide-open canvases convey.

Anchorage's "Whaling Wall" by artist Wyland depicts many of the ocean mammals found in Alaska waters. (Michelle Brown)

Anchorage offers an array of experiences that are perfect for families with kids or friends seeking adventure. Embrace the thrill of the outdoors, wildlife, diverse cuisines, and immerse yourself in the city’s awesome art scene.