Ruth Haines
Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport is a bustling hub and the gateway to Alaska for millions of visitors annually. The airport is named after the late US Senator and World War II pilot, Ted Stevens, and is one of the top three cargo hubs in the world. Anchorage itself is a small city of about 300,000 residents, built on a grid system, making it easy to navigate by car. If you're looking for things to do around the airport, there are plenty of options, from exploring the city's art and crafts to partaking in outdoor activities and witnessing the state's renowned wildlife.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Art | Art in Public Places art gallery is located in two areas: in the Mezzanine of the C Concourse, and the Northern Lights Corridor, which holds light-sensitive pieces. |
| Art by famous Alaskan artists such as Sylvester Ayek, Nathan Jackson, and Helen Slwooko Carius. | |
| Local art and Alaskan-made items can be found in downtown Anchorage. | |
| Food | The Norton Sound Seafood House, Humpy’s Great Alaskan Alehouse, Forty-Ninth State Brewing Company |
| Starbucks, Cinnabon, and AK & Co. Gourmet Market for Alaskan-themed sweets and salmon | |
| Shopping | Mooselaneous and Sourdough Mercantile for Alaskan books, magazines, and souvenirs |
| Sports | Alaska Sports Hall of Fame display at the South terminal, featuring dog mushers Susan Butcher and George Attla, Olympic medalists Tommy More and Kristen Thorsness, and NHL Calder Trophy winner Scott Gomez |
| Tours | Anchorage City Tour, Anchorage Trolley Tour, Anchorage All Around City Tour, Wilderness Wildlife Glacier Experience |
| Whale watching, Alaska Aviation Museum, Lake Hood, Westchester Lagoon, Coastal Trail, Point Woronzof, Tony Knowles Coastal Trail |
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What You'll Learn
Explore Alaskan art and crafts, including the Art in Public Places gallery
Anchorage's airport offers a colourful introduction to Alaskan art and crafts. The Art in Public Places gallery is located in two areas: the Mezzanine of the C Concourse and the Northern Lights Corridor, which holds light-sensitive pieces. The gallery features famous Alaskan artists such as Sylvester Ayek, a sculptor whose work is also exhibited at the Smithsonian; Nathan Jackson, a Tlingit artist and one of Alaska's finest carvers; and Helen Slwooko Carius, a historian of traditional life.
The airport also showcases art made by Alaskans and a local sports hall of fame. If you're in the South terminal, you can learn about famous dog mushers like Susan Butcher and George Attla, as well as Olympic medallists Tommy More and Kristen Thorsness, and NHL Calder Trophy winner Scott Gomez.
For those who enjoy shopping, the airport offers a range of options, including the AK & Co. Gourmet Market, which sells Alaskan-themed sweets and salmon, and Mooselaneous and Sourdough Mercantile, where you can find Alaskan books, magazines, and unique souvenirs.
The airport also has a variety of dining options, including the Norton Sound Seafood House, which showcases authentic fishery resources, and Humpy's Great Alaskan Alehouse, which offers a balance of fresh seafood and well-crafted beers.
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Visit the Alaska Aviation Museum
The Alaska Aviation Museum is one of the top five attractions in Anchorage and is located on Lake Hood, the world's busiest seaplane base, at Anchorage International Airport. The museum is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm during the summer, with reduced hours in the winter. It boasts four hangars of exhibits and vintage aircraft, with over 25 vintage aircraft on display in flying condition.
The museum showcases the rich history and legacy of aviation in Alaska, a state with few transportation options over its vast territory. Each aircraft and artifact on display has a fascinating and meaningful backstory related to Alaska's aviation history. Visitors can explore a variety of exhibits, both indoor and outdoor, and even watch volunteers at work restoring vintage aircraft in the restoration hangar.
One of the unique features of the museum is its control tower, where visitors can observe seaplanes landing and taking off while listening to a live real-time radio tower feed. The museum also offers a range of interactive experiences, such as flight simulators, including full-immersion virtual reality. For those looking for souvenirs, the world-class gift store offers a variety of options to remember your visit.
In addition to the Alaska Aviation Museum, the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport itself also offers a glimpse into Alaskan culture and history. The airport is named after the late U.S. Senator and World War II pilot, Ted Stevens, and is known as the crown jewel of Alaska's aviation world. The airport features Alaskan art and a local sports hall of fame, as well as a variety of dining and shopping options showcasing local flavours and crafts.
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See the Alaska Sports Hall of Fame display
If you're an avid sports fan, the Alaska Sports Hall of Fame display at the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport is a must-see. Located in the South Terminal, the exhibit showcases the achievements of renowned Alaskan athletes and is a celebration of the state's rich sporting history.
As you walk through the corridor leading to and from the South Terminal, you'll be treated to a visual journey through Alaska's sports legacy. The Hall of Fame consists of wall displays honouring notable athletes and their accomplishments. Take your time to read about the inductees and their remarkable achievements.
Among the famous names, you'll encounter are dog mushers Susan Butcher and George Attla, who have left their mark on Alaska's sporting landscape. Olympic medalists Tommy More and Kristen Thorsness are also featured, their stories serving as an inspiration to all. NHL fans will be thrilled to see the recognition of Calder Trophy winner Scott Gomez, a testament to Alaska's contribution to ice hockey.
The Alaska Sports Hall of Fame also showcases some unique honourees, such as Iditarod racers and mountaineers, highlighting the diverse range of sports and adventures that the state has to offer. The display is an excellent way to learn about Alaska's sporting culture and is a great option if you have a few hours to kill before your flight or are waiting for a connecting flight.
The Hall of Fame is easily accessible, located on Level 0 of the airport, near the car rental area. It's a quick walk from the parking garage, and you can easily spend 20 minutes or so perusing the displays and learning about Alaska's sports stars. So, if you're passing through Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, be sure to add the Alaska Sports Hall of Fame to your itinerary for a fascinating glimpse into Alaska's athletic achievements.
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Shop for souvenirs and local treats
Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport is not just a bustling aviation hub, but also a great place to explore and purchase local treats and souvenirs. The airport is named after the late US Senator and World War II pilot, Ted Stevens, and it is renowned as the crown jewel of Alaska's aviation world.
The airport showcases a variety of shopping options, ranging from gift shops to convenience and duty-free stores. Here are some places to explore for unique souvenirs and local treats:
Moosetique
This gift shop, located within the airport, offers a diverse selection of Alaskan-themed souvenirs and gifts. From knick-knacks to more intricate items, you're sure to find something that captures the spirit of Alaska.
Aurora Artistry
Aurora Artistry is the perfect place to immerse yourself in Alaskan artistry. This shop features a carefully curated selection of Alaskan-made art and jewellery. You can expect to find unique pieces that reflect the local culture and traditions.
Anchorage Marketplace and Local Alaska Rustic Market
These markets are a treasure trove of Alaskan-made products. From delicious edible treats to clothing and gifts, you can explore a wide range of options that embody the essence of Alaska. Think smoked salmon, reindeer sausage, local beers, and unique clothing items.
Duty-Free Shops
For travellers seeking convenience and a good bargain, the airport also houses duty-free shops like The Travel Shop and Benefit Express. Here, you can find travel essentials, souvenirs, liquor, tobacco, cosmetics, and skincare products.
In addition to these shops, the airport also features specialty stores like David Green Furs, where you can browse luxurious fur coats and accessories. With so many options, you're sure to find the perfect mementos and local treats to commemorate your time in Anchorage.
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Take a tour of Anchorage, including the Coastal Trail
If you're looking to take a tour of Anchorage and explore the Coastal Trail, there's plenty to see and do. The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is a must-visit destination in Anchorage, offering breathtaking natural scenery and a wealth of outdoor activities. The trail is named after former Alaska governor Tony Knowles and spans 11 miles from downtown Anchorage to Kincaid Park, following the shore of Cook Inlet.
As you venture along the trail, you'll be treated to stunning views of the inlet and the surrounding mountain ranges, including the Chugach Mountains, Denali (Mount McKinley), and Mount Susitna (Sleeping Lady). Keep an eye out for wildlife as well, as it's not uncommon to spot eagles, moose, and even beluga whales along the way. The trail also passes through scented forests and offers a glimpse into the natural and human history of the area, including the site of the devastating 1964 earthquake.
Kincaid Park, located at the southwest end of the trail, is a vast urban wilderness that was once a Cold War missile base. Spanning over 1500 acres, the park offers panoramic views of Denali, the Cook Inlet, and intimate enclaves of deep woods. It's a popular destination for outdoor sports enthusiasts and those seeking a wild oasis within the city.
To get to the Coastal Trail, you can access it from the northeast end of West 2nd Ave, near the railroad depot, or from several points in the city, allowing you to explore as much or as little of the trail as you like. Bike rentals are available downtown, or you can join a guided tour in the summer with Freewheel E-Bike & Art Tours or year-round with Alaska Trail Guides. In the winter, cross-country skis and fat-tire bikes are also available for rent.
While in Anchorage, you can also take a city tour to explore more of what the city has to offer. The Anchorage Trolley Tour is a popular option, providing a unique perspective of the city. Additionally, Anchorage has a vibrant food and craft beer scene, with places like Humpy’s Great Alaskan Alehouse offering a blend of fresh seafood and well-crafted beers. For a taste of authentic Alaskan fishery resources, the Norton Sound Seafood House is a must-visit.
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Frequently asked questions
Anchorage is a small city with about 300,000 residents and is easy to get around with a car. Here are some things you can do near the airport:
- Visit the Alaska Aviation Museum on Lake Hood.
- Watch float planes take off at Lake Hood, the busiest seaplane lake in the world.
- Check out Point Woronzof, a spot on the Cook Inlet waters right next to the airport.
- Head to Westchester Lagoon and walk the 11-mile-long Coastal Trail.
- Explore the Alaska Sports Hall of Fame display at the South terminal of the airport.
- Shop for local art and Alaskan-made items in downtown Anchorage.
Anchorage offers a range of outdoor activities, including:
- Whale watching.
- Glacier tours.
- Wildlife tours.
- Exploring the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, an 11-mile trail along the inlet.
There are several dining options near the airport, including:
- Forty-Ninth State Brewing Company.
- Humpy’s Great Alaskan Alehouse.
- The Lakefront Hotel.
