One night in Anchorage

Question

We're flying into Anchorage on a Friday evening in late July, and we are heading out towards Denali on Saturday morning. Where would you advise staying for one night where we can get a decent meal and check out Anchorage for the evening? There will be 4 of us - mom, dad, and 2 young adult children, so we'll need a couple of hotel rooms, ideally. We'd love a restaurant recommendation or two, if you have them! Thank you so much.

Answer

For a one-night stay in Anchorage with plans to head to Denali the next morning, convenience, comfort, and access to good dining are key considerations. Since you’ll be arriving on a Friday evening, staying near downtown or midtown is ideal for exploring the city and grabbing dinner without a long drive.

Hotel Recommendations

Hotel Captain Cook: A classic upscale option in downtown Anchorage. It offers spacious rooms, multiple on-site restaurants, and easy walking access to downtown attractions.
Anchorage Marriott Downtown: Modern, comfortable, centrally located, with rooms that can easily accommodate families. It has a restaurant and bar on-site for convenient evening dining.
Hilton Anchorage: Located in midtown, convenient for airport access and quick morning departure to Denali. The hotel has good rooms and an on-site restaurant.

Restaurant Options for Dinner

Glacier Brewhouse: Popular downtown spot known for fresh seafood, steaks, and local brews. Great for families and groups.
Matanuska Brewing Company: Laid-back brewery with hearty pub fare. Casual and fun atmosphere.
Moose’s Tooth Pub & Pizzeria: Famous for gourmet pizza and craft beer; casual but lively.
49th State Brewing Company (in midtown or nearby options): If you prefer scenic views and good pub-style fare, this is another solid choice.

Evening Activities

Walk along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail for a brief sunset stroll or view of the waterfront.
Explore downtown shops and galleries if time permits after dinner.
Stop at a local coffee or dessert shop for a late-night treat before heading back to your hotel.

For departure to Denali on Saturday morning, it’s convenient to book a hotel that allows early check-out and is close to the Parks Highway or the train station if you plan to travel by train. Overall, downtown or midtown Anchorage offers the best combination of dining, comfort, and quick access to your next destination.

One night in Anchorage

More Alaska (AK) Travel Questions

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions