11 Best Things to Do in Girdwood, Alaska (A Local's Opinion)

Girdwood is a small town here in Alaska located just under an hour from Anchorage. Although the original town location was closer to the coast, after a major earthquake in 1964 they decided to move the town two miles inland, to where it is now. Even though it's small, there are plenty of fun things to do - especially for first time visitors. From epic hikes to stunning waterfalls and adrenaline pumping activities like helicopter rides and glacier visits, there's really something for everyone. As you drive the Turnagain Arm on your way to Girdwood, make sure to keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like moose, bears, mountain goats, and even belugas!

​My Essential Alaska Travel Resources :
There are plenty of travel companies out there, but these are my favorite websites and resources for planning an unforgettable trip to Alaska. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

For flights, I recommend using Hopper to compare the cheapest dates to travel to Alaska.

Car rentals, arguably the best way to see Alaska, are best through Discover Cars!

I always use Expedia's easy-to-use platform to compare the best rates.
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To keep cell service if you're traveling internationally, I use Airalo’s easy to purchase eSIM’s (no installation required), and NordVPN to stay safe while connecting to different wifi.

For fun things to do, I recommend Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours in the area.

Just in case, Safetywing is the insurance I always use for travel insurance.

Lastly, my Alaska packing list for your travels to the Last Frontier.

Getting to Girdwood & Where to Stay

Girdwood is an easy 45 minute drive South from Anchorage. The drive takes you along Turnagain Arm - one of my favorite scenic drives in Alaska. Along the way, you can stop at Birch & Alder (my favorite coffee & breakfast stop on Turnagain Arm) and stop along one of the many pull-offs to enjoy the views. There's also plenty of chances to see wildlife, from bears to moose, eagles to mountain goats, and even seals and beluga whales!

The most popular place to stay in Girdwood is Alyeska Resort, which also doubles as the largest ski resort in Alaska. They have multiple amenities onsite like their tram that takes guests to the top of the mountain, their Nordic Spa, and their brand new Veilbreaker Skybridge!

​If you're looking for a place that's a little more cozy, there's plenty of spacious and modern home rentals in the area. I've only tested out Jeremy's Mountain Chalet - which is quite large if you're traveling solo or as a couple, but is great for family reunions, and they've even hosted weddings there in the past!

Book a Stay at Alyeska Resort!

My Favorite Tours Near Girdwood :
- Anchorage to Girdwood Transfer
- Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center Tour
- Full Day Turnagain Arm Tour

Best Things to Do in Girdwood

1. Alyeska Resort's Pool or Nordic Spa
If you're a guest at Alyeska Resort, then you'll have access to their onsite indoor pool and hot tub that have some amazing views of Mount Alyeska. If you want to experience something a little more luxurious, I would recommend purchasing a pass to their fairly new, outdoor Alyeska Nordic Spa.  Open to the public, the outdoor area includes their "hydrotherapy circuit" - think hot pools, cold pools, rainforest steam rooms, and saunas. Inside, you can find their Two Trees Bistro and massage facilities. The Nordic Spa is 18+ years old and is considered a cell phone free zone, really encouraging guests to disconnect and enjoy the relaxing amenities. 

2. Head out on a Hike
My personal favorite hike in the area is Virgin Creek Falls - only because it's so short and easy with such a big pay off. There are multiple waterfall views along this hike and they're each stunning! Another popular hike is the Crow Pass Trail, which in total is 21 miles and takes you all the way to the Eagle River Nature Center. It's important to know that bears (both grizzly and black bears) frequent the Girdwood area, so I recommend renting bear spray to bring with you.

3. Visit a Local Festival
Every year Girdwood hosts unique events like the Forest Fair, the Blueberry Festival, and their annual Oktoberfest. If you're lucky enough to be visiting while these festivals are going on, I highly recommend making a stop! You can find plenty of local vendors, do some shopping, enjoy live music, and try some of the best local food vendors and food trucks in Alaska.

4. Walk the Town
​Girdwood might be small but there's still lots to see in town, plus the surrounding mountain views are beautiful from every spot in town. There's some unique things to see, like the quirky fire hydrant pictured above or America's #1 Voted Laundromat, in addition to a few parks that share the history of the 1964 earthquake.

5. Gold Mining
This unique opportunity can be found at the Crow Creek Mine, on the Crow Creek Road a few miles out of town. They have multiple options for visitors who just want to explore the property, visitors who want to try gold mining themselves, and visitors who want to take a fully guided historical tour to learn more about the area and what life was like as a gold miner.

6. Helicopter Ride to a Glacier
The most epic thing to do while visiting Girdwood is the Alpine Air helicopter ride to a glacier. After your scenic flight, you'll get to experience glacier dog sledding and even walk around on the glacier. This might be one of the most beautiful views you'll ever see, and even though it's a bit spendy, it's definitely one of the most epic things you can do while in Girdwood. (Photos from our Matanuska Glacier experience.)

7. Catch the Alaska Railroad
If you're coming from Anchorage and don't have a car, you might want to try the Alaska Railroad! The Girdwood stop is located near the main road, and even though there's no staff onsite you can purchase tickets ahead of time and decide which direction you want to go (back towards Anchorage or further south to Seward).

8. Take the Alyeska Tram
​If you're looking for some epic views of Turnagain Arm, then one of the best ways is to head to the top of Mount Alyeska. If you're not too keen on hiking up, then I recommend the Alyeska Aerial Tram. If you're looking to go above and beyond (literally) then I recommend Alyeska's new Veilbreaker Skybridge. Their guided tour includes the roundtrip tram ride and the chance to cross two hanging bridges that are 2,500 feet above the valley!

9. Try E-Biking
​If you want to explore town on your own but don't feel like walking, then I recommend renting some electric bikes from Powder Hound, who also has fat tire bikes if you're visiting in the winter. With these you can make your way from Alyeska Resort to town, or head out to Turnagain Arm and search for Belugas. You could even try biking the Turnagain Arm on the paved bike path that follows the Seward Highway.

10. Scenic Rafting
Another activity in Girdwood for those looking for something a bit more adventurous is to try a scenic glacier float with Chugach Adventures. They offer multiple tours (either rafting or kayaking) that will get you up close and personal with glaciers in the area. You might even have a chance to see some wildlife on your rafting trip!

11. Grab a Bite to Eat (or Coffee)
My favorite way to explore a new city is to try the local food scene - and Girdwood has some awesome options! Personally I love Alpenglow Coffeehouse, Raw Market, and any of the restaurants at Alyeska Resort. Other good options in Girdwood are the Spoonline Bistro and Jack Sprat!

Watch my Girdwood Adventures here!

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Other Alaska blog posts you might be interested in : 
-> 11 Best Waterfalls in Alaska
-> Where to Rent Bear Spray in Alaska
-> 7 Best Tours in Alaska

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