South Central Alaska

Travel Guide

Seward showing mountains, forest scenes and a river or creek
Chugach State Park featuring mountains, a gorge or canyon and a river or creek
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve which includes mountains and snow
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve featuring interior views
Anchorage featuring modern architecture
As the most populated region in the state, Southcentral Alaska combines the majesty and excitement of the wilderness with charming, accessible cities.

Southcentral Alaska is a gateway to all of the thrills and wonder of America’s last frontier. Creaking, ancient glaciers, craggy peaks and forested rivers are just a short journey away from some of the state’s liveliest cities. Enjoy all the amenities of modern Alaska and visit a wide array of cultural attractions on the coast before venturing into the enticing wilderness that lies beyond the coast.

The Southcentral region is one of the best places in Alaska to learn about the state’s indigenous communities. Explore Anchorage, the largest city in the state, and visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center. Join one of the guided tours of the exhibits and villages for expert insight into the history of the region.

Linger in Anchorage to discover more of the city’s attractions. The Anchorage Museum and the Alaska Aviation Heritage Museum examine different aspects of the state’s history. Take your family to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and the Alaska Zoo, where visitors of all ages can meet the region’s beautiful wildlife.

Discover the towns scattered along the Kenai Peninsula, which are known for their laid-back and creative atmospheres. Mingle with artists in Girdwood and browse the galleries of Homer and Old Town Kenai.

Head into the Wrangell Mountains around the Copper River Valley or hike into Chugach National Forest for wilderness escapes on your doorstep. Those that prefer to explore from the water can join kayaking or white-water rafting expeditions along the Kenai, Matanuska and Sixmile Rivers.

Fly into Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport then choose one of many different ways to travel around Southcentral Alaska. Water taxis skim around the coastline while the Alaska Railroad promises hours of uninterrupted scenery.

Unlike Far North Alaska, summers in Southcentral can have long stretches of hot weather, making it a perfect time to explore the region. The temperature in winter drops well below freezing, but the season offers the chance to ski on the Kenai Peninsula and maybe even see the northern lights.

Where to stay in South Central Alaska

Anchorage showing marine life and a river or creek

Downtown Anchorage

5/5(1 area review)

Travelers to Downtown Anchorage praise its popular shops. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to make a stop by Anchorage Historic City Hall and Log Cabin Visitor Information Center.

Downtown Anchorage
Virgin Creek Falls in Girdwood. Such an easy short hike in the rainforest to one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen. Fall colors in full display.
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#Adventure #Girdwood #VirginCreekfalls

Alyeska

While visiting Alyeska, you might make a stop by sights like Girdwood Town Square and Girdwood Park.

Alyeska
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Midtown Anchorage

5/5(1 area review)

Midtown Anchorage is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Z.J. Loussac Library - Main Branch and Cinemark Century Anchorage 16 while in the area.

Midtown Anchorage
Chugach State Park featuring a river or creek

Hillside

While visiting Hillside, you might make a stop by sights like Alaska Zoo and Anchorage Golf Course.

Hillside
Summer Solstice, Turnagain Pass Alaska #Adventure

University Area

While University Area might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Alaska Airlines Center and Alaska Botanical Garden.

University Area
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Spenard

Abundant dining options and lake views are well-reviewed features of Spenard. Make a stop by top sights like Arctic Benson Park while you're exploring the area.

Spenard
Westmark Anchorage Hotel
Westmark Anchorage Hotel
3 out of 5
720 West 5th Avenue, Anchorage, AK
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Anchorage. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the ...
7.4/10 Good! (1,000 reviews)
"nice property didn't like the one way streets"

Reviewed on Oct 14, 2024

Westmark Anchorage Hotel
Puffin Inn of Anchorage
Puffin Inn of Anchorage
2 out of 5
4400 Spenard Rd, Anchorage, AK
The price is P5,107 per night from 5 Apr to 6 Apr
P5,107
P5,719 total
includes taxes & fees
Apr 5 - Apr 6
Book a stay at this business-friendly motel in Anchorage. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
7.2/10 Good! (2,636 reviews)
"Great staff. Reliable transportation to and from the airport."

Reviewed on Mar 28, 2025

Puffin Inn of Anchorage
Wingate by Wyndham Anchorage Downtown/Ship Creek
Wingate by Wyndham Anchorage Downtown/Ship Creek
2.5 out of 5
111 W Ship Creek Ave, Anchorage, AK
The price is P6,828 per night from 1 Apr to 2 Apr
P6,828
P7,647 total
includes taxes & fees
Apr 1 - Apr 2
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Anchorage. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
6.8/10 (1,330 reviews)
"Great staff."

Reviewed on Mar 27, 2025

Wingate by Wyndham Anchorage Downtown/Ship Creek
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Talkeetna Wilderness Lodge and Cabin Rentals
Talkeetna Wilderness Lodge and Cabin Rentals
3 out of 5
17351 E Michele Drive, Talkeetna, AK
Stay at this 3-star cabin in Talkeetna. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a garden. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (344 reviews)
"Perfect!!! Nice & quiet location. Cabins were perfect size, beds comfortable. The feeling of being at home"

Reviewed on Mar 23, 2025

Talkeetna Wilderness Lodge and Cabin Rentals
Alaska Creekside Cabins
Alaska Creekside Cabins
2 out of 5
11886 Old Exit Glacier Rd, Seward, AK
Stay at this cabin in Seward. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a picnic area. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions Seward ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (542 reviews)
"Great little cabin, clean and comfortable"

Reviewed on Sep 26, 2024

Alaska Creekside Cabins
Colony Suites
Colony Suites
4 out of 5
380 S Colony Way, Palmer, AK
Stay at this 4-star apartment in Palmer. Enjoy free parking, laundry facilities, and balconies or patios. Popular attractions Colony House Museum and Palmer ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (86 reviews)
"Great place to stay. Super nice"

Reviewed on Jan 6, 2025

Colony Suites
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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