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. 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.
What to Expect in Downtown Anchorage
Downtown Anchorage, like any major city, can have vastly different experiences depending on the time of year you visit, the time of day you visit, and how far you're planning to walk from your parking spot. During winter months, especially at night, it can feel a bit eerie - empty streets, homeless walking around - but truth be told my husband and I have never had any issues here. If you're visiting, I recommend exploring during the day when streets are a bit busier.
On another note, if you're looking for a great place to stay, I recommend The Wildbirch Hotel. They're located right downtown (in between some of our favorite restaurants!) and they're currently undergoing a huge remodel to put in a brewery, restaurant, cafe, and shop. The rooms are boutique style and very cozy plus they have parking right onsite!
Best Restaurants in Downtown Anchorage
1. Crow's Nest, $$$
A hidden gem located at the very tippy top of the Captain Cook Hotel, they open at 5 pm everyday with last dinner service at 8:30. I recommend making reservations to coincide with sunset, this way you can enjoy the incredible views of Anchorage and Cook Inlet before then enjoying the views of the Sunset. I recommend getting the Risotto of the Day, the Kodiak Scallops, the Venison, and the Chevre Cheesecake.
2. Whiskey & Ramen, $$
The most popular restaurant downtown, I recommend booking your reservations as far in advance as you can. (I booked mine a week away from the date I wanted and they only had one time slot, 8:30pm, left.) They do take walk ins, but chances are you'll need to sit at the bar. I recommend getting the Whiskey Pork Buns as an appetizer, The Hook (most basic, original ramen on their menu), the Tokyo Rich Tsukemen (deconstructed ramen bowl where you dip the noodles and veggies into the broth that's been served on the side), and the Matcha Panna Cotta for a light dessert.
3. La Palmeira, $$
This recently opened restaurant has very tropical and upbeat atmosphere, and you can find some great eats here for a pretty decent price! My personal favorites are their Hibiscus Rosemary fusion drink, their Nachos, and their Street Tacos. I guarantee you'll leave in a better mood than when you came!
4. Sullivan's Steakhouse, $$$
If you're looking for steak, or for a fancy dinner, then Sullivan's Steakhouse is the place to go. This is my favorite steakhouse in town, and although it's priced a bit on the higher side, it's 100% worth it. Of course, here I would recommend trying one of their fun drinks and your cut of choice with one of their specialty butters. Because meals come out family style, if you want any sides you'l have to order them for the table. They also have a $51, 3 course fixed menu to make ordering a bit easier! 
5. 49th State Brewing, $$
Another one of the most popular spots in town this restaurant, this spot comes highly recommended by pretty much everyone in town. In the summer months they have a great outdoor patio to enjoy the views, and because of their popularity they almost always have a wait. Some of my favorite things to get here include their Crispy Cauliflower, the World Famous Yak Burger, and their Baked Mac & Cheese. They also host lots of fun, local events throughout the year.
6. Serrano's, $$
A local restaurant with multiple locations, this is one of the most popular Mexican restaurants in town. I always end up getting some of their tacos here, but I've heard their other dishes are just as good!
7. Club Paris, $$
Another steakhouse in downtown, this is another favorite for locals, especially because it's been around since 1957. Their steak meals are a bit more reasonably priced than Sullivan's, and the interior is uniquely Alaska themed.
8. Glacier Brewhouse, $$
This spot is very popular with local business people making their way through town, meaning that on the most random days it can be very busy. They have a very large menu, with all types of food, but I usually go with their Seafood Fettuccine or their Herb Crusted Alaska Halibut.
9. Anchorage Pel Meni, $
Another favorite of mine is a bit of a hidden gem, and is the perfect spot for a light meal or snack. Pel Meni are traditional Russian dumplings, and here you can choose between meat filled Pel Meni or potato filled. I like to get the potato filled with "everything" which includes curry seasoning and cilantro, and dip them in sour cream!
10. Crimson, $$
My newest favorite is Crimson - the brand new restaurant inside The Wildbirch Hotel that strives to use as many local and "Alaskan" ingredients as possible. This elevated dining experience focuses on "Pan-American Latin Flair" and I personally love their Fry Skillet of sweet potato fries and their Crimson Nachos! Their Crimson Fire cocktail is also delicious, and my husband Tyler loves their Crimson Burger.
Watch my Adventures Downtown :
Other Alaska blog posts you might be interested in :
-> 24 Hours Anchorage Guide -> Anchorage Trolley Tour -> E-Biking the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail
Pin this Anchorage Food Guide for Later!
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I'm Deborah👋🏼
In 2021 my husband Tyler convinced me to move to Alaska. After living here for a year (then leaving to take a year long world trip) we realized there was no place we loved more. So now we're back - and I'm here to share all my best tips and hidden gems to make
Your Alaskan Adventures the best they can be. 
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