Jewel Lake Parish

The Anchorage Museum gathers together some of Alaska's most dramatic traditions and transforms them into exhibits and attractions that allow them to come alive in various multi-dimensional presentations. One of the museum's galleries features 600 Alaska Native artifacts that are on loan from the Smithsonian Institution. Some of these items include ceremonial masks, battle armor and waterproof clothing made from the intestines of a seal. The museum features 80 exhibits that include an aurora machine, a marine animal touch tank and the very popular earthquake shake table. New additions include a planetarium and an Alaska Native contemporary art gallery.

The Anchorage Folk Festival is held every January and is an impressive showcase for local, regional and national talent. Folk songs often tell the tale of the triumph of the human spirit, and nearly everyone in Anchorage and the surrounding areas can relate to overcoming challenges to find a better way of life. In addition to performances on the main stage, there are also interesting workshops, dances and late night jams on the schedule of events.

As a couple, it's always good to have a lot in common. But if the one thing that the two of you have in common the most is stress, then that situation can be changed for the better with a visit to the Alaska Institute of Oriental Medicine, Acupuncture & Massage Therapy. The two of you can relax and enjoy not only each other's company, but also a menu of full therapeutic services that will have both of you feeling completely relaxed in no time. The Center is open seven days a week, and walk-ins are welcome, so plan for some real chill time on your next romantic outing.

Got your rod and reel but don't know where to cast your line? Two of the most popular fishing spots near Anchorage are Bird Creek and Mat-Su Valley Lakes. Bird Creek is where you may find silver and good pink salmon at the end of your line. The creek is about an hour's drive south of downtown Anchorage. The Mat-Su Valley Lakes are about 40 minutes north of town and the quiet atmosphere is a welcome getaway where you can catch trout, Arctic Char and landlocked salmon.