What's a visit to Anchorage without uttering the word "mush?" Well, shouting the word is more like it at the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race held every March. World-class sled racers and their dog teams mush toward the Bering Sea coast through the area's rugged terrain in what has been termed the "Last Great Race on Earth." The route is a staggering 1,150 miles and it all starts in downtown Anchorage the first Saturday in March with a grand ceremony to begin the race.
The Alaska Museum of Natural History is a multi-dimensional compendium of the state's most amazing natural creations. The museum features the largest exhibits of Alaskan rock, mineral and fossil collections. Plus, you can take in the wonder of all of the Native American cultural artifacts that tell the story of the state's indigenous residents in a truly colorful way. There are also exhibits that detail the Alaskan Gold Rush and the various economic realities that came with it. Stories, artifacts and art all come together in this unique portrait of the state's dramatic history.
The Alaska Botanical Garden is a great way to get your family familiarized with the state's natural beauty in many different ways. The garden attraction is spread out over 110 beautiful acres and features over 900 species of perennials and 150 native plants that are as inviting as they are beautiful. Take the kids on a mile-long nature walk to the banks of Campbell Creek to see even more natural beauty. Don't miss the alpine rock garden, herb garden and wildflower walk, too. It's a big day of fun, so don't forget to pack a picnic lunch so you can relax and enjoy a meal together among the garden's relaxing environment.
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.