11 Best Anchorage Tours in 2024 (local approved!)

Are you ready to book the best Anchorage tour?

You’ve come to the right place because the best 11 Anchorage tours are listed here.

How can I be so sure?

I’ve been to Anchorage multiple times on my travels of the US and been on several Anchorage day tours over the years!

It’s one of the best places to visit in Alaska!

I’ve also vetted the tours below to make sure they’re well-reviewed and highly rated so all you have to do is decide which one sounds more your style and off you go.

Anchorage is one of the most stunning cities in all of the US, acting as the gateway to the Alaskan wilderness, but it also has plenty of cultural and natural beauty to offer within the city limits, which is why I’ve included both tours of Anchorage and tours that depart from Anchorage in this guide.

Whether you want to do an Anchorage City Tour with Salmon Tasting or an Alaskan Helicopter Tour from Anchorage or something else entirely, I’m here to help you figure out which are worth your money and which are best avoided.

Enjoy this list of the 11 top-rated Anchorage tours, including helicopter tours of Anchorage and Anchorage sightseeing tours so you know you’re making a great choice for your vacation!

Easy Guide: Best Guided Tours of Anchorage

#1 PICK 🏆Anchorage City Tour w/ Taste of Wild Smoked Salmon & Reindeer Sausage4.5 out of 5 Stars, 360+ reviews▶ Book Here!
#2 PICKAlaska Helicopter and Glacier Dogsled Tour5 out of 5 stars, 290+ reviews▶ Book Here!
#3 PICKWilderness Wildlife Glacier Experience5 out of 5 stars,
1700+ reviews
▶ Book Here!

1. Anchorage City Tour w/ Taste of Wild Smoked Salmon & Reindeer Sausage: tour of Anchorage

⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars, 360+ reviews | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours 30 minutes | ✔️ BOOK NOW

This tour offers the perfect introduction to Anchorage for first-time visitors, combining leisurely walking with comfortable driving to ensure you experience the best of both worlds.

Begin your journey in Downtown Anchorage, where you’ll meet your friendly guide and set the stage for an enriching adventure.

Witness the spectacle of nature at Ship Creek, a mesmerizing spot where you can witness the awe-inspiring journey of salmon as they navigate upstream.

Prepare to tantalize your senses at Alaska Wild Berry Products, where a spectacular 20-foot chocolate waterfall awaits.

Delight in the flavors of the North as you savor samples of delectable northern treats, including the exquisite smoked salmon and reindeer sausage at Alaska Sausage and Seafood.

Don’t forget, they’ll even expertly pack your favorites to accompany you on your journey back home!

Need-to-knows about this tour:

  • maximum of 14 travelers
  • Pick up at Anchorage Downtown Visitors Center 546 W 5th Avenue
  • activity ends back at the meeting point

2. Alaska Helicopter and Glacier Dogsled Tour: dogsledding in Anchorage

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars, 290+ reviews | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 1 hour 30 minutes | ✔️ BOOK NOW

Experience the breathtaking beauty of North Anchorage with a 90-minute adventure combining helicopter and dogsled tours.

Embark on a thrilling helicopter ride that takes you soaring over the magnificent Church Range and Knik Glacier before reaching the enchanting Troublesome Glacier.

Upon landing, you’ll be greeted by an eager team of 40 sled dogs ready to whisk you away on an authentic Alaskan dogsled experience across the sprawling glacier.

Throughout your journey, keep your eyes peeled for the sight of native wildlife, including majestic moose and agile mountain goats, adding to the allure of your expedition.

Need-to-knows about this tour:

  • pick-up points available in Anchorage
  • helicopter flight is around 30 minutes round-trip
  • you’re advised to wear layers with an outerproof shell

3. Wilderness Wildlife Glacier Experience: Anchorage glacier tour

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars, 1,700+ reviews | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 6 hours | ✔️ BOOK NOW

Take a journey deep into the heart of the Alaskan wilderness with this Wilderness Wildlife Glacier Experience tour.

Get ready for an unforgettable day as you venture into the stunning Chugach National Forest, where natural wonders await.

Look for beautiful brown bears, the elusive wolves and massive bison as they roam freely.

Your guided tour provides a unique opportunity to capture these incredible creatures through your own lens.

You’ll also check out the gorgeous Ring of Glaciers, as well as Beluga Point where you can watch beluga whales dance in the clear waters.

During the summer months, from June to August, you have the exclusive chance to upgrade your adventure with the Portage Glacier Cruise.

Need-to-knows about this tour:

  • live commentary on board
  • snacks and bottled water included
  • hotel pick-ups available in the winter

4. Alaska Helicopter Tour with Glacier Landing – 60 mins: Anchorage helicopter tour

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars, 420+ reviews | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 1 hour | ✔️ BOOK NOW

Ready to see Alaska from above?

Take an intimate small-group helicopter tour that includes an exhilarating glacier landing.

Soar into the skies for a breathtaking scenic flight, treating your senses to the mesmerizing landscapes of the Knik River, Great Gorge, and the stunning Whiteout Glacier.

Experience a gentle touchdown on the glacier’s icy terrain, where you’ll have the unique chance to indulge in the pure glacial water.

Then, enjoy a guided glacier trek, discovering the pristine beauty of the surroundings, before your homeward-bound helicopter expedition.

Need-to-knows about this tour:

  • winter tours will land next to the glacier, as snow-cover makes landing on the glacier dangerous
  • restaurant service available on-site in the summer months
  • snacks available to purchase year-round

5. Anchorage Trolley’s Deluxe City Tour: Anchorage city tour

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars, 570+ reviews | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 1 hour 30 minutes | ✔️ BOOK NOW

Tour the heart of Anchorage on this Deluxe City Trolley Tour, where vibrant culture and rich history come to life.

Climb aboard the iconic red trolley and set out from downtown Anchorage for an unforgettable exploration of this bustling Alaskan metropolis.

You’ll roll through charming neighborhoods and scenic byways, all with experienced guides who have deep connections to the region and will share their stores of Alaskan life.

Along the route, you’ll stop at designated viewpoints like Earthquake Park, as well as Lake Hood, Lake Spenerd and Point Woronzof which offers panoramic views of the city.

And as a bonus, enjoy exclusive travel savings worth up to $200 with their complimentary coupon booklet!

Need-to-knows about this tour:

  • maximum of 20 travelers
  • near public transportation
  • infants must sit on laps

6. 26 Glacier Cruise and Coach from Anchorage, AK

⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars, 610+ reviews | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 11 hours | ✔️ BOOK NOW

Join your guides on an unforgettable full-day adventure and one of the best tours from Anchorage that combines the best of both worlds – a thrilling sightseeing tour and an awe-inspiring glacier cruise!

Your day begins with a scenic drive along the breathtaking Turnagain Arm Drive. The Seward Highway, designated a Scenic Byway, offers stunning views of the coastline and majestic mountains.

Next, brace yourself for an exhilarating experience as you pass through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, North America’s longest shared rail and vehicle tunnel.

Once you arrive at Prince William Sound, the real highlight of the tour awaits – the 26 Glacier Cruise.

Board a comfortable catamaran that glides gracefully through narrow fjords, revealing breathtaking views of massive glaciers.

As the cruise concludes, you make a stop in the quaint coastal town of Whittier.

This Gateway to Prince William Sound is home to just 200 residents, and you’ll have a brief moment to explore before boarding the coach for a relaxing journey back to Anchorage.

Need-to-knows about this tour:

  • No Seasickness Guarantee – their smooth cruising catamarans & the calm waters of Prince William Sound
  • Captain provides on-board narration
  • restrooms are available on board

7. Alaska Railroad Anchorage to Seward Round-Trip Same Day Return

⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars, 200+ reviews | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 14 hours 30 minutes | ✔️ BOOK NOW

Experience the rugged beauty of Alaska’s Turnagain Arm on an unforgettable round-trip journey from Anchorage to Seward aboard the Coastal Classic Train, one of the best Alaska train tours from Anchorage.

Departing from Anchorage Depot at 6:45 am, you’ll embark on a scenic 4-hour ride along one of the Alaska Railroad’s most picturesque routes.

Sit back and relax in reserved seating as you take in breathtaking vistas of the Chugach Mountains, river canyons, glaciers, and cascading waterfalls through the train’s large picture windows.

Throughout the journey, knowledgeable guides provide captivating on-board narration, sharing fascinating stories and insights about the area’s history, wildlife, and natural wonders.

Upon arriving at Seward Depot at 11:15 am, you’ll have ample free time to explore the charming port town at your own pace. Wander through quaint streets, visit local shops, and soak in the maritime atmosphere.

Before the return journey to Anchorage at 6:00 pm, you can also choose to indulge in on-board dining options available for purchase on the train, ensuring a hassle-free and satisfying experience.

Need-to-knows about this tour:

  • Narration included on train
  • Time in Seward spent exploring is on your own
  • Dining and snack bar available on the train

8. Wildlife and Glaciers with a walk in the Rainforest

⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars, 430+ reviews | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours 30 minutes | ✔️ BOOK NOW

Explore the captivating landscapes of Alaska’s Turnagain Arm on this incredible tour.

Your journey starts at the Anchorage Visitors Center, where you’ll meet your knowledgeable guide and hop onto a comfortable vehicle.

Set out on a scenic drive along Turnagain Arm’s tidal flats, and your guide will provide insights into the local ecosystem, shedding light on the various wildlife that inhabit this area.

Your next stop is the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, a sanctuary that offers refuge to animals that can’t survive in the wild. Here, you’ll have the chance to observe bears, moose, musk-ox, caribou, and bison in a natural setting, capturing some great photos along the way.

The journey continues with a visit to Beluga Point in Chugach State Park, where you can snap photos of the picturesque Turnagain Arm. If you’re lucky, you might spot Dall sheep and catch a glimpse of beluga whales frolicking in the waters below.

Before heading back to Anchorage, enjoy a snack or meal at Portage Day Lodge while soaking in the surrounding views.

Need-to-knows about this tour:

  • Maximum of 14 travelers
  • Operates in all weather, so dress appropriately
  • Not recommended if you can’t walk for around 40 minutes on your own

9. Valley of Glaciers Experience with Portage Glacier Cruise and Wildlife Tour

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars, 70+ reviews | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8 hours | ✔️ BOOK NOW

Discover the ultimate stress-free and all-encompassing day with this intimate small-group tour.

This tour covers Anchorage classics like Beluga Point, Bird Point, and the Chugach Mountain Range.

The highlight of your tour, though, is at the Portage Valley, where you’ll explore the stunning Explorer and Middle glaciers.

Boarding the M/V Ptarmigan, you’ll embark on a serene hour-long cruise on Portage Lake, surrounded by multiple majestic glaciers and awe-inspiring landscapes.

As the day winds down, you’ll be whisked back to Anchorage along the Seward Highway.

Need-to-knows about this tour:

  • Maximum of 10 travelers
  • Near public transportation
  • You will receive a text or call the day before departure with pick-up information and any extra information

10. Viator Exclusive: Go eBike Alaska on Tony Knowles Trail

⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars, 80+ reviews | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | ✔️ BOOK NOW

Explore Alaska’s stunning scenery beyond your car window.

Join a guided e-bike tour along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, renowned for its beauty nationwide.

Enjoy a leisurely ride on your pedal-assisted cruiser, soaking in views of Cook Inlet, the Alaska Mountains, and downtown Anchorage.

Keep an eye out for Alaska’s famous wildlife along the way.

Your guide will provide the necessary e-bike and gear for a comfortable journey.

Whether pedaling or gliding, you’ll encounter wildlife, mountains, water views, and more on the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail.

Suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Need-to-knows about this tour:

  • Maximum of 7 travelers
  • Participants should have some experience riding a bike
  • Those with heart conditions, back problems, or pregnant should skip this tour

11. Anchorage Aurora Quest – Northern Lights Photo Tour: Anchorage Northern Lights tour

⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars, 75+ reviews | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 6 hours | ✔️ BOOK NOW

Join a nighttime journey from Anchorage to witness the Northern Lights on a photography-focused tour!

Be picked up from your hotel and set off with a small group to capture the captivating Aurora Borealis.

Learn photography techniques and try your hand at capturing the stunning light display.

Experience the beauty of the Northern Lights in Alaska, receive personalized photography guidance, and enjoy round-trip transportation for convenience.

Need-to-knows about this tour:

  • Maximum of 10 travelers
  • The Aurora is a natural event, so sighting cannot be guaranteed

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