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Transportation from Airport to downtown

Hi - my husband and I will be flying into ANC the end of June for a three night stay before a land / cruise tour. The first two nights we'll be in an airbnb. Is is reasonably easy to use the train to get from the airport to downtown? Or is it better just to grab a cab?

Also looking for recommendations for dinner the first night which is our anniversary. Something we can walk to and nice, but we don't need five star dining. We like seafood and I can't have gluten.

Thanks!

Getting from Anchorage Airport (ANC) to downtown is quite straightforward, but the train isn’t a practical option for this. The Alaska Railroad does have passenger service in summer, but it runs from downtown Anchorage south toward Seward or north toward Fairbanks, and there is no station directly at the airport. You would need to get to the depot in downtown first, which is about 5–7 miles from ANC.

For convenience, taxis, ride-shares like Uber or Lyft, and airport shuttles are the easiest options. The ride downtown is generally 10–15 minutes depending on traffic. Most visitors opt for a taxi or ride-share unless they are renting a car for the duration of their stay.

Regarding dinner for your anniversary, Anchorage has a number of restaurants that serve excellent seafood and accommodate gluten-free diets. Here are some recommendations within walking distance of downtown areas:

  • Simon & Seafort’s Saloon & Grill: Known for fresh seafood, steaks, and a great view of the inlet. They have gluten-free options on the menu.
  • Moose’s Tooth Pub & Pizzeria: While known for pizza, they offer gluten-free crusts and have other menu items, plus a fun, casual atmosphere.
  • 49th State Brewing Co. (Anchorage location): Offers locally sourced seafood dishes, gluten-free options, and great views. Casual but nice ambiance for a celebration.
  • Kincaid Grill: A slightly more upscale option for fresh seafood, with gluten-free menu options, and within walking distance if staying downtown.

Tips:

  • Call ahead to ensure the restaurant can accommodate your gluten-free needs on the day of your visit.
  • Downtown Anchorage is compact, so walking between restaurants and your Airbnb is usually feasible if you’re staying near the city center.

Overall, a taxi or ride-share is the most practical way to get from ANC to downtown, and the restaurants listed offer a nice balance of quality, local flavor, and gluten-free options for your anniversary celebration.

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