Alaska

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When in Anchorage…Just Fish

#1 By common definition, the term downtown usually refers to a city’s main business section. In Anchorage, while there is plenty of business being done downtown, do not be fooled; you can also catch some world-class salmon fishing right in Ship Creek— which has also been described as urban combat fishing. “In the summer, I keep my hip waders, fly rod and a cooler in my office so I can take an ‘Alaskan lunch hour,’—I go fishing!” exclaimed Shelly Wozniak, an Anchorage native who takes full advantage of the city’s natural benefits.

#2 Most people equate Alaska with freezing temperatures and snow—lots of snow. However, during the summer months, Anchorage is often referred to as the City of Flowers. In addition to the various wildflowers that call Anchorage home, the city also plants 461 flowerbeds and hanging baskets at 81 sights each summer, making the cityscape come alive with color and beauty. Legend has it, however, that one of the most vibrant of Alaska’s flora is also one of its most daunting omens. When the magenta petals of the fireweed plant reach their pinnacle of beauty, the six-week countdown to the long, cold winter begins.

#3 Watch out for the crowds! The Municipality of Anchorage is home to about 42 percent of Alaska’s population. But don’t be alarmed, because that 42 percent equates to about 275,000 people inhabiting over 1,600 square miles of land. To give you a little perspective, here is how New York City’s five boroughs stack up: about 8.2 million people crammed into the 322 square miles. There’s not enough to be said for the pleasure of fresh air and room in which to breathe it!

#4 Speaking of numbers, Anchorage has a resident moose population of 2,000, so most locals aren’t surprised when one or more of these large furry creatures are the cause of a traffic jam downtown.

#5 There is an incredible amount of outdoor activity to partake in while visiting Anchorage, making for good reason to plan a trip in the summer months when the days are long and the weather is warm. Anchorage has more than 19 hours of summer daylight, so you can get all your sightseeing done during the day and land a 10 p.m. tee time at one of the city’s many scenic golf courses.

#6 Anchorage residents love their coffee! You may think that your city has a Starbucks on every corner, but Anchorage has more coffee shops per capita than anywhere in the U.S. You can find some of the best tasting coffee in the world in Anchorage. Visitors can drink coffee like a local at Kaladi Brothers, a local roaster, and enjoy the brew that fuels the city and keeps its residents warm during cold Alaskan days and nights.