Anchorage activity raves for May

[tpbf]

Due to a wonderful visit by the upgrade fairy we got to spend several days in Anchorage prior to our 5/22 sailing. We had no plans as we thought we would be sailing from Vancouver. We were lucky to have great weather, but more so to have done these really great things:

 

1. Historic downtown Anchorage Hotel: I am sure there are places with better views, but the service here could not be beat!! The staff here (even the night crew) were right on with what to do and what to skip, including places to eat. DH cannot walk very far and they could not have helped us more, including being sure the cabs were correctly directed. Very centrally located, but could be easily overlooked. Service is what most of us want in a hotel and these folks provided!!

 

2. The $15 trolley ride: Just for an hour, cash only. A quick drive through the town with a driver (and his great kid selling tickets on the corner) who will answer every possible Anchorage question you could have. A good way to get a feel for where you are.

 

3. Dinner at the Crow's Nest in the Capt. Cook Hotel: Can't beat the view. And, don't fret if you get seated looking at the bay. The mountain view is so spectacular we were at first disappointed to be seated on the bay side. Remember, the bay side is the sunset side. The sun setting over the Sleeping Lady (a sight worth seeing) was the trip highlight view. Food was good as well, but the view and the service were tops.

 

4. Native Heritage Center: Smaller, but I think better than the one in Hawaii. Well trained young tour guides and fun shows. Nothing formal, just informative. And - EAT AT THE LITTLE FOOD COURT!! It was the best meal of the two weeks, even better than Princess. Great salmon mousse and caribou stew. Nice little outside patio. We expected nothing from this eatery and we were WRONG. Between the food and the gift shop and the native vendors, well worth the trip. Free transport as well from the visitor's center.

 

Lots in Anchorage was well worth the trip, but the above four are often not celebrated in the tourist material. All will make your trip more fun.

[Cruisenouvelle]

Thanks very much- we're going in September on Celebrity Millie, will have 2 days in Anchorage (I think!). Thx for the suggestions.

[PennyAgain]

Glad you got to experience the Crow's Nest at the CC. Worth the price of a meal to have the view...in summer.