Anchorage Cruise Port
Port of Alaska
Anchorage, United States Port
Alaska UN/LOCODE USANC Port of call
Anchorage Cruise Port Location
| Port Details | |
|---|---|
| Country | United States |
| Region | Alaska |
| UN/LOCODE | USANC |
| Contact | |
| Address | 2000 Anchorage Port Rd, Anchorage, AK 99501 |
| Port phone | +1 907-343-6200 |
| Website | www.portofalaska.com |
| Geography | |
| Coordinates | 61.21806, -149.90028 |
| Accessibility | |
| Accessible | Limited |
The cruise terminals serving Anchorage are actually located in Whittier (105 km / 65 miles) or Seward (204 km / 127 miles), requiring a 1.5 to 3-hour transfer via coach or the Alaska Railroad. You will likely only dock at the industrial Port of Alaska if sailing on a small luxury vessel. This destination, located in Southcentral Alaska, serves as the urban heart of the state and provides the most comprehensive cultural and logistical hub for travelers. The consistent feedback from visitors is that Anchorage rewards the planner and punishes the wanderer. You cannot realistically walk from the ship to a glacier; in fact, if you arrive in Whittier or Seward, you must commit to a significant transit day just to reach the city limits. This port of call serves as a major ocean cruise port, typically acting as the beginning or end of a Northbound or Southbound Gulf of Alaska itinerary. The city sits on the shores of the Cook Inlet, a body of water known for extreme tides and silty mudflats that are dangerous to step on. Anchorage is roughly 65 km (45 minutes) from Girdwood and 80 km (1 hour) from the Portage Glacier. It rewards those who seek deep Indigenous history and urban amenities but punishes anyone expecting a quaint, walkable fishing village like Ketchikan.
Anchorage — Port Overview
History
Anchorage was not born of a gold rush or a colonial outpost but as a meticulously planned railroad hub. Founded in 1915, the city began as a 'tent city' at the mouth of Ship Creek, serving as the headquarters for the Alaska Engineering Commission during the construction of the Alaska Railroad. You can still see the original 1915 layout in the grid system of the downtown core today. The most transformative event in the city's history occurred on March 27, 1964, when the Good Friday Earthquake—the second-most powerful recorded in history—struck at a magnitude of 9.2. This cataclysmic event lasted nearly five minutes and fundamentally reshaped the landscape, causing entire neighborhoods like Turnagain to slide into the Cook Inlet. When you visit Earthquake Park today, you are standing on the literal scars of that event, where the land remains buckled and uneven. Post-1964, the city rebuilt with a focus on seismic resilience and modern aviation, becoming a critical global cargo crossroad. Its significance shifted from rail to air, and today, Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport is one of the busiest cargo hubs on the planet. The history you see today is a blend of this mid-century resilience and the enduring presence of the Dena'ina Athabascan people, who have lived in the Eklutna area for over 800 years.
The Verdict
The clients who get the most from Anchorage are those who arrive with a clear plan and the flexibility to adapt to Alaska's unpredictable logistics. Whether you are using the city as a gateway for a rail journey or exploring its world-class museums, having a strategy for the Whittier/Seward transfer is essential. This guide has been fact-checked by J. Richard and the Waterways Cruise editorial team. Excursions that guarantee a return to the ship can be tailored to your mobility, interests, and pace, so missing departure is never a concern.
Things to Do & See in Anchorage
| Attraction | Type | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Admission |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anchorage Museum | Museum | 625 C St, Anchorage, AK 99501 | +1 907-929-9200 | Daily 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Summer) | anchoragemuseum.org | USD $25.00 |
| Alaska Native Heritage Center | Cultural Site | 8800 Heritage Center Dr, Anchorage, AK 99504 | +1 907-330-8000 | Daily 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Summer) | alaskanative.net | USD $29.00 |
| Tony Knowles Coastal Trail | Natural Feature | Access at 2nd Ave and H St, Anchorage, AK 99501 | Open 24 hours | muni.org | Free | |
| Ship Creek Salmon Overlook | Natural Feature | N Ship Creek Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501 | Open 24 hours | adfg.alaska.gov | Free | |
| Flattop Mountain (Glen Alps) | Landmark | Glen Alps Trailhead, Anchorage, AK 99507 | +1 907-345-5014 | Dawn to Dusk | dnr.alaska.gov | USD $5.00 |
Anchorage Museum · Museum
USD $25.00The Anchorage Museum is the largest museum in Alaska and arguably the most important cultural institution in the North. It is a stunning piece of architecture that houses the Smithsonian Arctic Studies Center. Here, you are not just looking at artifacts behind glass; you are engaging with the living history of the Dena'ina, Yup'ik, and Inupiat peoples. Visitor feedback consistently indicates that the 'Living Our Cultures' gallery is a life-changing experience. You will see ceremonial parkas made of seal gut that are as thin as parchment but entirely waterproof—a testament to thousands of years of engineering. The museum also features a planetarium and a dedicated Alaska history wing that covers everything from the Russian fur trade to the oil pipeline era. It is quiet, respectful, and deeply educational. If you only visit one site in Anchorage, this must be it. It delivers a sense of place that no gift shop or bus tour can provide.
625 C St, Anchorage, AK 99501 ·+1 907-929-9200 ·Daily 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Summer) ·www.anchoragemuseum.org
Alaska Native Heritage Center · Cultural Site
USD $29.00This is more than a museum; it is a gathering place. The Heritage Center is unique because it represents all 11 of Alaska's major cultural groups in one location. Be aware that the true value lies in the outdoor village. As you walk the 0.5-mile loop around the lake, you encounter different traditional house types, from the whalebone and sod houses of the Arctic to the cedar longhouses of the Southeast. Each house is 'hosted' by a culture bearer—often an elder or a young person learning the traditions—who will answer your questions about their specific way of life. Inside the main hall, you will see master carvers at work and traditional dance groups that encourage audience participation. It is a sensory experience: the smell of smoked fish, the sound of the caribou-skin drum, and the vibrant colors of the beadwork. It offers an intimacy with the local culture that is impossible to find in a standard tourist setting. It delivers a profound respect for the resilience of Alaska's first people.
8800 Heritage Center Dr, Anchorage, AK 99504 ·+1 907-330-8000 ·Daily 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Summer) ·www.alaskanative.net
Tony Knowles Coastal Trail · Natural Feature
FreeNamed after a former governor, this is one of the most beautiful urban trails in the country. It hugs the shoreline of the Cook Inlet, providing a front-row seat to the dramatic tides and the vast mudflats. When you stand on the trail, you feel the raw power of the Alaskan wilderness pressing right up against the city. The walking distance from the downtown hotels to the trailhead takes about 8 minutes. On a clear day, the view across the water to the Alaska Range and Mount Denali is staggering. The trail is also a wildlife corridor. Moose and her calf are sometimes reported to be seen just yards from the pavement. You get the smell of the wild roses that grow along the path and the bracing air of the Inlet. It is the perfect place to decompress after the busyness of a cruise ship. It delivers a sense of scale and peace that defines the Alaska experience.
Access at 2nd Ave and H St, Anchorage, AK 99501 ·Open 24 hours ·www.muni.org
Ship Creek Salmon Overlook · Natural Feature
FreeThis is one of the only places in the world where you can see King and Silver salmon being caught in the shadows of downtown office buildings. It is the birthplace of Anchorage. During the summer months, the creek is teeming with salmon returning to spawn. You will see 'combat fishing' in action—locals in chest waders standing shoulder-to-shoulder, casting for fish that can weigh up to 50 pounds. It is a spectacle of grit and nature. The scene here is often described as primal, and is located just five minutes from a luxury hotel. The smell of the salt mud and the sound of the rushing water create a unique urban-wilderness blend. You can walk the footbridge and look directly down into the water to see the dark shapes of the fish holding in the current. It is a visceral reminder that in Alaska, nature always comes first. It delivers a genuine, non-commercial look at Alaskan life.
N Ship Creek Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501 ·Open 24 hours ·www.adfg.alaska.gov
Flattop Mountain (Glen Alps) · Landmark
USD $5.00Flattop is the most-climbed mountain in Alaska for a reason. From the Glen Alps trailhead, you get a panoramic view of the entire Anchorage bowl, the Cook Inlet, and the Aleutian Range beyond. On a perfect day, the sight is majestic. It is the ultimate Alaskan 'photo op.' The air is thinner here, and you will see sub-alpine wildflowers that don't grow in the city. While the climb to the top is a rite of passage for locals, the lower trails offer plenty of beauty for less aggressive walkers. You will feel the wind that whips across the Chugach Mountains and see the sheer scale of the wilderness that surrounds the city. The trail requires a 15-minute uphill walk to reach the first overlook. It is a rugged, honest mountain experience. It delivers the 'top of the world' feeling that most cruise passengers crave but rarely find without a helicopter.
Glen Alps Trailhead, Anchorage, AK 99507 ·+1 907-345-5014 ·Dawn to Dusk ·dnr.alaska.gov
Eating & Drinking in Anchorage
The culinary identity of Anchorage is defined by two things: wild-caught seafood and a surprisingly sophisticated craft beer scene. Unlike the lower 48 states, 'fresh' salmon here means it was in the water yesterday. You will notice that 'Alaska Pollock' is rarely on the menu at high-end spots—locals consider it bait. Instead, look for Rockfish, Sablefish (often called Black Cod), and the prized Copper River Salmon when in season. For a genuine local treat, try Reindeer Sausage; you can find it at street carts on 4th Avenue, served with grilled onions and cream cheese. This is how locals eat on the go. To drink, the local obsession is craft beer, with Anchorage having more breweries per capita than almost any other US city. One honest note: tourists expect to eat sourdough with every meal, but that is largely a historical trope. Modern Alaskans eat globally—don't be surprised to find world-class Thai and Vietnamese food in the Spenard district, which reflects the city's diverse population.
| Place | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Price range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Glacier Brewhouse | 737 W 5th Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501 | +1 907-274-2739 | Daily 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM | glacierbrewhouse.com | $40.00 - $65.00 ($40.00 - $65.00 USD) |
| Simon & Seafort's Saloon & Grill | 420 L St, Anchorage, AK 99501 | +1 907-274-3502 | Daily 11:30 AM - 9:00 PM | simonandseaforts.com | $45.00 - $75.00 ($45.00 - $75.00 USD) |
| 49th State Brewing - Rooftop | 717 W 3rd Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501 | +1 907-277-7727 | 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM; Happy Hour 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM | 49statebrewing.com | $9.00 - $14.00 ($9.00 - $14.00 USD) |
Glacier Brewhouse
$40.00 - $65.00 ($40.00 - $65.00 USD)The aroma of the alder-wood rotisserie defines the experience here. You must order the King Salmon; it is seasoned simply to let the wood-smoke and the freshness of the fish speak for themselves. The interior is a masterclass in Alaskan cozy, with soaring timber beams and a massive stone fireplace. It gets very loud during peak dinner hours, which is the only real drawback. It delivers the quintessential 'upscale Alaska' dining experience.
737 W 5th Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501 ·+1 907-274-2739 ·Daily 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Simon & Seafort's Saloon & Grill
$45.00 - $75.00 ($45.00 - $75.00 USD)This is where you go for a 'view with a meal.' Located at the edge of Bootlegger Cove, the large windows overlook the water. The halibut is exceptionally flaky and fresh. The service is professional and paced for those who want to linger. One caveat: it feels a bit like a 1980s steakhouse, which may not appeal to those seeking a modern vibe, but the food quality is undeniable. It delivers old-world Alaskan elegance.
420 L St, Anchorage, AK 99501 ·+1 907-274-3502 ·Daily 11:30 AM - 9:00 PM
49th State Brewing - Rooftop
$9.00 - $14.00 ($9.00 - $14.00 USD)The rooftop deck here is the place to be on a sunny day. You can look across the water to the Alaska Range while sipping a locally crafted beer. It is lively and loud, with a constant buzz of conversation. It's the best spot to toast your arrival in Alaska. Be warned: the service can be slow when the deck is full.
717 W 3rd Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501 ·+1 907-277-7727 ·11:00 AM - 11:00 PM; Happy Hour 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Getting There & Around
Once you reach the downtown core, walking is the most efficient way to see the museums and shops. The grid is flat and easy to navigate. For destinations further afield, like the Native Heritage Center or Lake Hood, Uber and Lyft are highly reliable and typically cost $15.00 - $25.00 ($15.00 - $25.00 USD) per trip. The local bus system, 'People Mover,' is clean and safe, costing $2.00 ($2.00 USD) for a single ride or $5.00 ($5.00 USD) for a day pass. You can buy passes directly on the 'mTicket' app. Bike rentals are not recommended for city navigation unless riding the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, as street traffic can be aggressive toward cyclists. A tip from local sources: if heading to the Native Heritage Center, checking for the free shuttle that runs from the Log Cabin Visitor Center on 4th Avenue can save $40.00 ($40.00 USD) in round-trip taxi fares.
Itineraries & Sample Walks
4-Hour Shore Excursion in Anchorage
Anchorage Museum
9:00 AM (120 min)
This is the most important cultural stop in Alaska. Focus on the Smithsonian Arctic Studies Center on the second floor. It houses over 600 Indigenous artifacts returned from the Smithsonian. You will see intricate ivory carvings and ceremonial masks that represent the depth of the 11 Alaska Native cultures.
- Short walk or shuttle drop-off from the Egan Center. (Free)
- Entry: $25.00 ($25.00)
- Skip the general art wing if time is tight; go straight to the 'Living Our Cultures' gallery.
Resolution Park & Coastal Trail
11:15 AM (60 min)
Walk to the statue of Captain Cook for the iconic view of the Cook Inlet. If it is clear, you can see Mount Susitna (the Sleeping Lady) across the water. The air here is sharp and salty. Walk just a quarter-mile down the paved Tony Knowles Coastal Trail to feel the scale of the mudflats.
- 10-minute walk west along 3rd Avenue. (Free)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Look for the spotting scopes at the park; you can often see beluga whales in the Inlet during the salmon runs.
Lunch Recommendation
Glacier Brewhouse
While 49th State is popular for its views, the food quality at Glacier Brewhouse remains the gold standard for consistent Alaskan seafood and house-brewed beers.
Order: Alder-Grilled Alaska King Salmon, Peanut Butter Porter (House Brew)
737 W 5th Ave
Cost: $45.00 ($45.00 USD)
8-Hour Full Day Experience in Anchorage
Alaska Native Heritage Center
9:00 AM (150 min)
This is an outdoor/indoor living museum. Walk around Lake Tiulana to visit six life-sized traditional dwellings. Each site is hosted by a representative of that culture who shares stories and traditions. It is the most respectful and thorough way to understand the state's heritage.
- Take the free shuttle from the Log Cabin Visitor Center or a 15-minute Uber. ($22.00 ($22.00 USD))
- Entry: $29.00 ($29.00)
- Time your visit for the Native Dance performances in the main hall; they usually start at 11:00 AM.
Lunch at Glacier Brewhouse
12:00 PM (75 min)
A local institution. The smell of the alder-wood rotisserie hits you the moment you walk in. It’s warm, timber-framed, and lively. It captures the spirit of a high-end Alaskan lodge without being pretentious.
- Return shuttle or 15-minute Uber to downtown. ($22.00 ($22.00 USD))
- Entry: Price of lunch (Price of lunch)
- Ask for a table near the fireplace if it's a chilly day.
Getting back to the ship
The latest safe departure from downtown Anchorage to the Whittier or Seward transfer hub is typically 2:00 PM or 3:00 PM, depending on your ship's sailing time. If you are taking the Alaska Railroad, the train departs the Anchorage Depot at a fixed time—usually 1:00 PM for Whittier. A 45-minute buffer is recommended before any scheduled departure. A taxi or Uber to Whittier can cost $150.00 - $200.00 ($150.00 - $200.00 USD) and takes 90 minutes. If you miss the transfer, call the port agent immediately (number provided in your daily ship newsletter). Because the route to Whittier involves a timed tunnel, if you miss your window, you may be stuck for an hour. The ship will rarely hold for independent passengers. Those who miss the ship in Anchorage face a complex and expensive flight to the next port, usually Hubbard Glacier or Skagway.
Weather & Best Time to Visit Anchorage
Weather & What to Pack
Cruise season: May through September
12°C - 19°C (54°F - 66°F). Variable cloud cover with frequent light drizzles. Humidity is low, but coastal winds can be biting.
What to wear: Layering is non-negotiable. You need a base moisture-wicking layer, a fleece mid-layer, and a waterproof shell. Despite being a city, the terrain includes paved but uneven trails; wear sturdy walking shoes with good grip. Sun protection is needed even on cloudy days due to high latitude UV levels. Locals do not wear umbrellas; a hooded jacket is the standard Alaskan 'uniform' for the Cook Inlet breeze.
Weather risks: Low-lying fog can occasionally delay morning train transfers from Whittier. High winds in the Turnagain Arm can cause coach speed restrictions.
June offers the 'Midnight Sun' with 22 hours of functional daylight, while September brings dramatic fall colors but significantly higher rainfall.
| Season | Conditions | Hazards | Affected areas | Visitor advice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer (June–August) | Mild with long daylight hours. Temperatures range from 15°C to 22°C (60°F to 72°F). | Aggressive mosquitoes in wooded areas; dehydration on the exposed Coastal Trail during record heat; mudflats of the Cook Inlet. | Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, Kincaid Park, Ship Creek. | Wear bug spray with DEET if heading to Kincaid Park. Never step onto the mudflats of the Cook Inlet; they act like quicksand. |
| Shoulder Season (May and September) | Crisp and unpredictable. September brings heavy rains and potential early frosts. | Slippery wet leaves on paved paths; high winds near the waterfront. | Earthquake Park trails, downtown sidewalks. | Wear waterproof footwear. September is the wettest month, and umbrellas are often useless in the coastal winds. |
Practical Information
Cultural etiquette
Alaskans are famously informal and friendly, but they value self-reliance and privacy. A simple nod or 'hello' is the standard greeting. In restaurants, tipping follows the US norm of 18–22%; anything less is considered a sign of poor service. A common cultural misunderstanding cruise passengers make is being overly 'touristy' in their dress—locals don't wear head-to-toe camouflage or high-tech mountaineering gear to go to the grocery store. Photography is generally welcomed, but always ask before photographing Alaska Native people or their artwork, as some items are sacred. When it comes to wildlife, never approach or feed an animal; Alaskans take this very seriously and will not hesitate to correct you. In queues, Alaskans are polite but don't like 'pushy' behavior. One specific tip: if you see someone fishing at Ship Creek, do not stand directly behind them while they cast—it's not just rude, it's dangerous. Finally, remember that Anchorage is a working city; keep your pace moving on the sidewalks to allow residents to get to their jobs.
Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake |
|---|
Spending the first hour at the pier market instead of heading directly to downtown. |
Attempting to walk from the train depot to the Native Heritage Center. |
Assuming you will see the Northern Lights during your summer cruise stop. |
Stepping onto the mudflats of the Cook Inlet for a photo. |
Practical tips
Anchorage is a card-forward city. You can use a credit card for everything from a $2.00 bus fare to a $500.00 carving. Tipping is standard US protocol: 20% for good service in restaurants and $2.00 - $5.00 per person for tour guides. Five words that earn goodwill: 'Is this locally made?', 'Great catch' (at Ship Creek), 'Dena'ina' (pronounced den-EYE-nuh), 'Midnight Sun,' and 'The Mountain is out' (meaning Denali is visible). Be aware of the 'panhandling' scam near the 4th Avenue transit center; people may ask for money for a 'bus to the valley'—politely decline and keep walking. Dress code is 'Alaska Casual' everywhere—jeans and a nice fleece are acceptable even at the finest restaurants. The best time to visit the Anchorage Museum is at opening (10:00 AM) to avoid the mid-day excursion rush. Always carry a photo ID, as even 'mature' travelers are frequently carded at breweries due to strict Alaskan liquor laws.
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FAQ — Anchorage
How long is the train ride from Whittier to Anchorage?
The Alaska Railroad journey from Whittier to Anchorage takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. This 65-mile trip is widely considered one of the most scenic in North America, passing through the Chugach National Forest and along the Turnagain Arm. It is important to note that the train must wait for its scheduled window to pass through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, which is shared with vehicles. Tickets typically cost around $95.00 ($95.00 USD) per person. For a guaranteed connection aligning with your ship’s departure, it is a good idea to arrange rail transport in advance through your cruise line or a licensed local operator, as cruise-dedicated rail cars are prioritized.
Can I see glaciers from downtown Anchorage?
No, you cannot see a glacier from the city center of Anchorage. While the city is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, the nearest glaciers, such as Portage or Matanuska, are a 1 to 2-hour drive away. You can catch a glimpse of the distant hanging glaciers in the Chugach Range on a clear day, but for a true glacier experience, you must book a flightseeing tour or a coach excursion to Girdwood. If you have 8 hours, a private transfer to the Byron Glacier trailhead can be arranged, which is a flat 1-mile walk to the most accessible glacier view near the city.
Is there a place to store luggage in downtown Anchorage?
There is no official luggage storage at the Anchorage Railroad Depot or the Egan Center for independent travelers. However, the 'Smarte Carte' lockers at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport are available if you are heading there before a late flight. Some downtown hotels, such as the Hotel Captain Cook, may store bags for a fee of $10.00 - $20.00 ($10.00 - $20.00 USD) even if you aren't a guest, though this is at their discretion. Most cruise passengers find it easiest to book a 'luggage-included' transfer, which transports your bags directly from the ship to the airport while you explore the city.
How much does a taxi cost from the airport to the train depot?
A taxi from Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport to the Alaska Railroad Depot in downtown Anchorage typically costs between $20.00 and $28.00 ($20.00 and $28.00 USD), including a standard tip. The journey takes about 15 minutes depending on traffic. Uber and Lyft are also available and usually price-match the taxis during non-peak hours. If you are carrying a lot of luggage, a taxi is often easier as they wait directly outside the baggage claim. For a seamless arrival, Waterways Cruise can pre-arrange a private black car service for roughly $75.00 ($75.00 USD) to meet you at the gate.
Are there bears on the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail?
Yes, both black bears and grizzly bears are occasionally spotted on the Coastal Trail, particularly in the wooded sections near Kincaid Park. While sightings are not a daily occurrence, you must remain 'bear aware.' If you see a bear, do not run; speak in a calm, loud voice and back away slowly. Moose are far more common and can be just as dangerous if they feel cornered. Most Waterways Cruise clients prefer to walk the first 2 miles of the trail starting from downtown, as this area is more open and has higher foot traffic, which naturally keeps wildlife at a distance.
Is the Anchorage Weekend Market worth the walk?
If your port call falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the Anchorage Market (located near the 3rd Avenue and E Street area) is definitely worth the 10-minute walk from the Egan Center. It features over 100 vendors selling local crafts, Alaskan sea salt, and birch syrup. It is also the best place to find 'Halibut and Chips' for around $22.00 ($22.00 USD). It is less 'touristy' than the 4th Avenue gift shops and offers a genuine look at local makers. Just be prepared for crowds between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM when the local residents arrive.
How do I get to the seaplane base at Lake Hood?
Lake Hood is located near the airport, about a 15-minute drive from downtown Anchorage. The best way to get there is via Uber or taxi, costing approximately $20.00 ($20.00 USD) each way. There is a public viewing area with benches where you can watch hundreds of takeoffs and landings. For the best experience, have your driver drop you at the 'Millennium Alaskan Hotel'—you can have a drink on their patio while the planes taxi right past your table. It is the busiest seaplane base in the world and an essential stop for aviation enthusiasts.
Will the ship wait if the Alaska Railroad is delayed?
The ship will only guarantee to wait for passengers on a cruise-line sanctioned rail transfer or a guaranteed excursion booked through a partner operator. If you book the 'Coastal Classic' train independently and it is delayed by a track obstruction or mechanical issue, the ship is not obligated to wait. Given that there is only one track serving Seward and Whittier, delays can happen. It is often recommended to choose 'Guaranteed Return-to-Ship' itineraries for any Alaskan rail journey. The train's progress can be tracked in real-time.
What is the best way to see the 1964 Earthquake damage?
The most visceral way to see the impact of the 9.2 magnitude earthquake is at Earthquake Park, located about a 10-minute drive ($15.00 USD taxi) from downtown. You can walk a short, paved trail that shows the 'reclaimed' land where a neighborhood once stood. For a more historical perspective, visit the Anchorage Museum's dedicated earthquake gallery, which includes heart-wrenching video footage and seismic maps. Many passengers make the mistake of looking for 'cracked buildings' downtown, but the city has been entirely rebuilt; the true damage is only visible in the buckled landscape of the coastal parks.
Can I see the Northern Lights during a summer cruise?
No. Despite what many brochures imply, the Northern Lights are not visible in Anchorage during the cruise season (May to September). This is because the 'Midnight Sun' means the sky never gets dark enough for the Aurora to be seen, even if the solar activity is high. You need true darkness, which doesn't return to Southcentral Alaska until late September. If seeing the Aurora is your primary goal, you should plan a land-based trip in February or March. Summer visitors are rewarded instead with nearly 20 hours of daylight to explore.
Fact-checked and co-written by J. Richard, Founder, Waterways Cruise, with the Waterways Cruise Content Team.
Published May 19, 2026 · Last updated November 2, 2026
This guide is researched and reviewed by our editorial team, but prices, hours, and availability change often. Confirm current details directly with venues, excursion operators, and your cruise line before you travel.