Portage Glacier Cruises makes it possible for you to get up close and see a glacier from a vantage point that would otherwise be nearly impossible. Get ready to visit the sheer, crystalline surface of an Alaskan glacier. This one-hour cruise has many highlights, including the opportunity to stand just 300 yards from a relic of the Ice Age. The water is quite calm even though you may see pieces of the glacier break off and drift away. The guides are well-informed and friendly and they also allow you time between their descriptions for you to just take in the natural beauty of these majestic, icy works of art. Tours must be booked at least 7 days in advance.
Experience what it was like to pan for gold as you travel back in time to when Anchorage was the crossroads for gold rush adventurers. Maybe you'll hit the motherlode as you pan for gold in a setting that most closely resembles that of the early pioneers. It will be a fun afternoon of learning (and panning) for the whole family at Indian Valley Mine.
Flattop Mountain is Anchorage's most popular day hike. The mountain is a towering 3,510-foot formation and it proves to be the perfect hike for both veteran and beginning hikers. This is a 3-mile round trip hike that includes good views of Alaska Range, Cook Inlet and Anchorage itself.
The Alaska State Fair gathers many of the state's residents from all over and brings them together for a festival that is not only filled with music and food, but it recognizes all of the cultural and social differences that go to make Alaska the truly remarkable state that it is. Alaskans come to showcase their monster veggies, crafts, culinary creations and lots more. Also, there are agricultural contests, farm exhibits, the Alaska State Rodeo as well as nationally recognized performers.