Exploring Anchorage, Alaska Airport (ANC)
Busy may not be the first word that comes to mind when you think of Alaska, but it’s the right one to describe the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport. Built in 1951, the Anchorage International Airport was renamed in 2000 to honor Senator Ted Stevens. It’s one of only four US airports named after a living person. The airport handles around five million passengers a year, and is also one of the world’s busiest cargo hubs. Unsurprisingly, it’s a major hub for Alaska Airlines.
There are two terminals in operation, with shuttles between them running every 15 minutes all day. Airport facilities include a bureau de change, ATMS, a post office, restaurants, bars, duty free shopping, barber shop and a massage and rest center. However, there are no business or conference facilities at the airport. For those, you will have to visit one of the hotels located less than two miles from ANC. There are short term parking lots as well as offsite Anchorage airport parking.
Anchorage is Alaska’s largest city, and it’s home to 40 per cent of the state’s population. There’s lots to see and do – here are a few suggestions.
- Alaska Botanical Garden – Covering 110 acres, this public garden aims to enhance the beauty and value of plants through education, recreation, preservation and research. The gardens opened in 1993. Much of the land is in a natural state, providing a great setting for seeing spruce, birch and native plants.
- Chugach State Park is the third largest state park in America, covering half a million acres. If you love outdoor activities, then this is a great place to be, as you can see wildlife, go camping, skiing, hiking, rafting, climbing and more. There’s lots to discover – you may even catch sight of a grizzly bear.
- The Campbell Creek Science Center, located in Anchorage, gives people of all ages the opportunity to enhance their awareness and appreciation of nature. This outdoor science education center is part of the 730 acre Campbell Tract, where visitors can enjoy trails in a natural setting.
- There’s also the Alaska Aviation Heritage Museum on the south shore of Lake Hood. It’s a chance to explore the state’s aviation history, see vintage aircraft and special exhibits.
- The Alaska Native Heritage Center highlights past and present traditions of Alaska Native cultures. It’s a showcase for the state’s indigenous cultures, exhibiting a variety of artefacts.
And don’t miss:
- The Chugach National Forest, the most northerly national forest in America, where there are active glaciers.
- The Eklutna Village Historical Park, the oldest continually inhabited Athabascan site in the area, dating back to 1650.
- The Anchorage Museum, showcasing art, history and science.
Have you been to Anchorage? What attractions would you recommend?
Tags: alaska attractions, anchorage, anchorage airport parking, anchorage attractions, Attractions, offsite airport parking
