Where to Stay in Anchorage, Alaska 🇺🇸 – 7 Best Areas for Every Traveler

Best Hotels: 🏠

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: Hyatt Place Anchorage-Midtown
• 🏨 4-Star: Crowne Plaza Anchorage-Midtown by IHG
• 🛏️ 3-Star: Comfort Suites Anchorage International Airport
• 💸 Cheap: Snob Hollow Inn Downtown Anchorage
• 🏢 Apartment: Ingra House Hotel
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Clarion Suites Anchorage Downtown
• 🏩 For Couples: The Hotel Captain Cook

Quick Guide to the Best Places to Stay: 📋

• 🏛️ First-Time Visitors: Downtown Anchorage
• 🏢 Business & Convenience: Midtown Anchorage
• ✈️ Airport Access: Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport
• 🚂 Cruise Passengers: Alaska Railroad Depot Area
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families: Turnagain & West Anchorage
• 🏞️ Local Life: South Addition & Rogers Park

1. Downtown Anchorage – Where to Stay in Anchorage for First-Time Visitors

Location advantages. Downtown Anchorage puts you within walking distance of the city’s top attractions without needing a car. I found myself steps away from the Anchorage Museum, Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, and the bustling 4th Avenue shopping district.

Transportation hub. The downtown area connects you to everything through the People Mover bus system and taxi services. Alaska Railroad depot sits just blocks away, making it perfect for cruise passengers arriving or departing from nearby ports.

Dining scene. I discovered some of Alaska’s best restaurants clustered around downtown’s core streets. From fresh seafood at Glacier BrewHouse to local favorites on 5th Avenue, you’ll taste authentic Alaskan cuisine without traveling far.

Walkability benefits. My advice is to choose downtown if you’re staying in Anchorage without a car. Everything from Resolution Park to the Alaska Native Heritage Center shuttle pickup remains accessible on foot or via short bus rides.

Nightlife access. Downtown Anchorage offers the city’s best nightlife scene with breweries, bars, and live music venues. I spent evenings exploring venues along 4th and 5th Avenues, all within safe walking distance of accommodations.

Practical tips for downtown stays:

• Book parking in advance during summer months
• Most attractions open at 9 AM, perfect for early exploration

Best Hotels in Downtown Anchorage

Luxury Hotels

• Sheraton Anchorage Hotel – Located in the heart of downtown, this upscale hotel provides sophisticated accommodations with modern amenities and easy access to Alaska’s cultural attractions.
• Hilton Anchorage – Alaska’s tallest hotel offers premium rooms with panoramic city and mountain views, featuring a fitness center, restaurant, and convenient downtown location.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Clarion Suites Anchorage Downtown – This all-suite hotel provides spacious accommodations with kitchenettes and separate living areas, perfect for extended stays in downtown Anchorage.
• Marriott Anchorage Downtown – A reliable mid-range option offering comfortable rooms with modern amenities, an indoor pool, and prime downtown location near major attractions.
• Four Points by Sheraton Anchorage Downtown – This contemporary hotel features well-appointed rooms with city views, a fitness center, and convenient access to downtown dining and shopping.

Best Budget Hotels

• Snob Hollow Inn Downtown Anchorage – A charming boutique inn offering affordable accommodations with personalized service and a cozy atmosphere in the heart of downtown.
• Highliner Hotel – This budget-friendly hotel provides clean, comfortable rooms with basic amenities and a central downtown location perfect for budget-conscious travelers.
• Ramada by Wyndham Anchorage – An economical choice offering reliable accommodations with essential amenities and easy access to Anchorage’s main attractions and transportation.

2. Midtown Anchorage – Where to Stay in Anchorage for Convenience and Business

Shopping and Services Central. Midtown houses Anchorage’s largest shopping centers, medical facilities, and business districts. I find this area perfect for extended stays since you have access to grocery stores, pharmacies, and everyday services within walking distance.

Business Traveler Paradise. The concentration of office buildings, conference centers, and corporate headquarters makes Midtown ideal for business visitors. Most hotels here cater specifically to business travelers with meeting rooms, business centers, and reliable WiFi.

Local Neighborhoods to Explore:

• Spenard Road corridor with local breweries
• Northern Lights Boulevard shopping district
• University of Alaska Anchorage campus area
• Turnagain neighborhood access

Easy Highway Access. Midtown connects directly to major highways leading to popular day trip destinations. From here, you can easily reach Portage Valley, Eagle River, or head south toward the Kenai Peninsula without fighting downtown traffic.

Family-Friendly Amenities. I recommend Midtown for families because of its proximity to parks, family restaurants, and recreational facilities. The area feels more residential while still offering hotel amenities and services.

Legendary Dining at Moose’s Tooth. Moose’s Tooth Pub & Pizzeria serves up Anchorage’s most famous pizza and craft beer in a lively atmosphere. Jens’ Restaurant offers upscale dining, while Great Harvest Bread Co provides fresh baked goods and excellent white chocolate cranberry bread.

Shopping and Entertainment Options. Visit Midtown Mall for local businesses and shopping, or catch a movie at Bear Tooth Theatre Pub – the city’s only dinner movie theater. The Alaska Rock Gym offers climbing for all skill levels, while Anchorage Public Library hosts free programs and events.

Craft Beer Scene. Midtown boasts a buzzing concentration of breweries, meadery, and distillery. Take a self-guided tour of local taps and tasting rooms, many conveniently located near neighborhood trailheads for post-hike refreshments.

Best Hotels in Midtown Anchorage

Luxury Hotels

• The Hotel Captain Cook – This iconic luxury hotel in downtown Anchorage offers elegant rooms with stunning views and the Chugach Mountains, featuring fine dining restaurants and world-class amenities.
• Embassy Suites Anchorage – An upscale all-suite hotel providing spacious accommodations with separate living areas, complimentary breakfast, and evening reception in a prime location.

Best Mid-Range Hotels

• Hampton Inn Anchorage – A reliable mid-range choice offering comfortable rooms with complimentary breakfast, fitness center, and convenient location for exploring Anchorage.
• Hyatt Place Anchorage-Midtown – Modern hotel featuring spacious rooms with separate living areas, 24/7 Gallery Market, and fitness center in the heart of Midtown.
• Hilton Garden Inn Anchorage – Contemporary hotel offering well-appointed rooms with microwaves and refrigerators, indoor pool, and on-site restaurant for business and leisure travelers.

Best Budget Hotels

• Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Anchorage Midtown – Budget-friendly option offering clean, comfortable rooms with complimentary breakfast and reliable Marriott service standards.
• My Place Hotel-Anchorage, AK – Extended-stay budget hotel featuring kitchenettes, free WiFi, and pet-friendly accommodations with weekly and monthly rates available.
• Aloft Anchorage – Modern, tech-savvy hotel with vibrant design, 24/7 fitness center, and grab-and-go market offering good value for style-conscious travelers.

3. Spenard & Lake Hood – Where to Stay in Anchorage for Airport Access and Lake Views

Floatplane Capital of the World. Lake Hood hosts the world’s busiest seaplane base, offering incredible aviation entertainment right outside your window. I love watching the constant takeoffs and landings of floatplanes heading to remote Alaskan destinations.

Airport Convenience Without the Noise. Located just minutes from Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, this area provides easy access without the typical airport hotel experience. You get lake views and local character instead of highway noise.

Unique Spenard Character:

1. Historic roadhouse culture
2. Local dive bars and authentic eateries
3. Aviation museums and exhibits
4. Lakefront walking trails

Aviation Enthusiast’s Dream. The Lake Hood area offers unparalleled access to Alaska’s aviation culture. You can book flightseeing tours, fishing charters, or remote lodge transfers directly from the seaplane base.

Local Flavor and Character. Spenard maintains its quirky, independent spirit with locally-owned businesses and restaurants. This area gives you an authentic Anchorage experience away from typical tourist zones.

Historic Spenard Road Corridor. Named after bootlegger Joe Spenard who developed a resort here in 1916, the renovated pedestrian corridor features Bear Tooth Theatrepub and eclectic small shops. Rent motor-powered bikes at Alaska eBike Electric Bike Rentals (2229 Spenard Rd) for scenic downtown views.

The Deck at Lake Hood Experience. Watch over 200 floatplane landings daily while enjoying Alaska’s coldest beer on tap at this seasonal lakeside spot. The restaurant offers nightly entertainment with majestic mountains as backdrop, even at midnight during summer.

Aviation Museums and Activities. Visit Alaska Aviation Heritage Museum (0.4 miles from Lake Hood) to learn about Alaska’s aviation history. The area provides easy access to flightseeing tours and remote fishing lodge transfers directly from the seaplane base.

4. Turnagain & West Anchorage – Where to Stay in Anchorage for Families and Local Vibe

Residential Charm with Hotel Comfort. West Anchorage offers a genuine neighborhood feel while maintaining access to quality accommodations. I appreciate how this area lets you experience how locals actually live in Anchorage.

Outdoor Recreation Paradise. The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail runs directly through this area, providing world-class biking and walking opportunities. You can access Earthquake Park, Point Woronzof, and stunning Cook Inlet views without driving anywhere.

Family-Friendly Features:

• Multiple playgrounds and parks
• Safe, quiet residential streets
• Local schools and community centers
• Easy beach and trail access

Spectacular Views and Sunsets. West Anchorage provides some of the city’s best views of Cook Inlet, Denali, and the Alaska Range. The sunsets here are absolutely incredible, especially from the coastal trail areas.

Local Shopping and Dining. This area features neighborhood grocery stores, family restaurants, and local services that give you a more authentic Anchorage experience than tourist-focused areas.

Kincaid Park Adventures. Explore over 1,400 acres of trails for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing at Kincaid Park. The park offers stunning coastline views and excellent wildlife watching opportunities, especially during moose and eagle sightings.

Point Woronzof and Lyn Ary Park. These coastal spots provide sweeping views of Cook Inlet and perfect sunset viewing locations. Point Woronzof offers peaceful walks with views of the Anchorage skyline and surrounding mountains.

Earthquake Park Historical Site. Learn about the 1964 Great Alaska Earthquake while enjoying scenic Cook Inlet views. The park features educational displays and walking trails through this significant piece of Anchorage’s natural history.

Westchester Lagoon Urban Oasis. This popular destination offers birdwatching, walking trails, and winter ice skating. The lagoon connects to the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail and provides disc golf and kayaking opportunities during warmer months.

Best Hotels in Turnagain & West Anchorage

• Turnagain Guest House – cozy bed and breakfast in a quiet residential neighborhood offering personalized hospitality with homemade continental breakfast, garden seating, and warm Alaskan welcome from hosts Allison who provides excellent local recommendations.
• Trinity Escapes - Two Bedroom two bathroom full Apartment near airport – spacious two-bedroom, two-bathroom fully furnished apartment featuring complete kitchen with every appliance imaginable including Keurig coffee maker, instant pot, rice cooker, and pellet grill for outdoor cooking.

5. South Addition & Rogers Park – Where to Stay in Anchorage for Quiet Neighborhoods and Local Life

Historic Neighborhood Character. South Addition represents one of Anchorage’s oldest residential areas with tree-lined streets and historic homes. I find this area perfect for travelers who want peace and quiet while staying centrally located.

Walking Distance to Parks. Delaney Park Strip and other green spaces provide excellent recreation opportunities right in your neighborhood. The area connects easily to downtown while maintaining a residential atmosphere.

Neighborhood Highlights:

• Historic architecture and mature trees
• Local coffee shops and neighborhood bistros
• Easy downtown access via grid streets
• Proximity to cultural attractions

Cultural and Arts Access. This area puts you close to Anchorage’s cultural district, including theaters, galleries, and music venues. You can walk to most cultural events and return to your quiet neighborhood afterward.

Local Community Feel. South Addition offers the most authentic residential experience while maintaining hotel amenities. The area feels like staying in a real neighborhood rather than a tourist zone.

Delaney Park Strip Amenities. This long rectangular city park features a rose garden, Martin Luther King Jr. memorial, Anchorage Veterans’ Memorial, tennis courts, and hockey rink. The open space perfect for picnics and recreational activities year-round.

Westchester Lagoon Recreation. Enjoy walking trails, playgrounds, disc golf course, fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching at this urban oasis. The 11-mile Tony Knowles Coastal Trail passes through the lagoon with pristine Chugach Mountain views.

Dining Near Downtown. Easy access to popular restaurants like Club Paris steakhouse, Biscuitclub for brunch, and 49th State Brewing for casual dining and craft beer. The proximity to downtown provides extensive dining options while maintaining neighborhood tranquility.

Best Hotels in South Addition & Rogers Park

• Fireweed Gardens in Roger’s Park – historic two-bedroom apartment in a 1940s home, set in tranquil Roger’s Park with private gardens, a fully stocked kitchen, laundry, fireplace, fast Wi-Fi, and direct access to Chester Creek park and Anchorage’s trail system. Guests enjoy blackout curtains, Alaskan décor, and a peaceful location just seven minutes from downtown and twelve minutes from the airport.
• Residence Inn by Marriott Anchorage Midtown – extended-stay suites with full kitchens, complimentary hot breakfast, indoor pool, fitness center, and free parking. Located in Midtown, this pet-friendly property is ideal for families or longer visits, offering easy access to the University of Alaska, Providence Hospital, and city parks.
• Anchorage Escape – studio apartment on a three-acre lot near the university, featuring a private deck, shared yard, garden views, and pet-friendly policy. Amenities include a kitchenette, free Wi-Fi, and parking; close to bike paths, ski trails, and salmon streams for a true Alaskan experience.

6. Near Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport – Where to Stay in Anchorage for Early Flights

Zero Stress Airport Access. Staying near the airport eliminates the worry about missing early morning flights or dealing with Anchorage traffic. I recommend this area for travelers with tight flight schedules or those arriving late at night.

More Than Just Airport Hotels. The airport area has evolved beyond typical chain hotels to include local options with character. You’ll find establishments that showcase Alaska’s hospitality while providing the convenience you need.

Airport Area Advantages:

• Free shuttle services to terminals
• 24-hour dining and services
• Car rental pickup locations
• Easy highway access to city attractions

Layover Luxury. Long layovers become opportunities to rest and refresh rather than endure airport seating. Many hotels offer hourly rates and day-use rooms specifically for transit passengers.

Gateway to Adventure. The airport area provides quick access to car rentals and tour operators, making it perfect for travelers who want to maximize their time exploring Alaska’s wilderness areas.

24-Hour Dining Options. Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport offers McDonald’s and Starbucks as 24-hour dining options. Silver Gulch Brewing & Bottling Co. (most reliable airport restaurant) serves pub grub with fast service and well-stocked bar.

Airport Restaurant Scene. Norton Sound Seafood House (open 5 AM-1 AM) serves breakfast for early flights and fresh Alaska seafood. Sushi on the Fly offers teriyaki bento boxes ($18-$20) and operates a beer garden with 16 beers on tap.

Pre-Security Dining at Upper One Lounge. Located next to Delta counter, this hidden dive bar (Mon-Fri 10 AM-9 PM, Sat-Sun 12-9 PM) offers wings, pulled pork nachos, quesadillas, and rice bowls. There’s even a barber shop next door for last-minute grooming.

Alaska Aviation Heritage Museum. Just 0.4 miles from the airport, this museum showcases Alaska’s rich aviation history. Perfect for aviation enthusiasts or travelers with extended layovers wanting to explore local culture.

Best Hotels Near Anchorage Airport

Lakefront & Scenic Hotels

• The Lakefront Anchorage – This stunning lakefront hotel offers breathtaking views of Lake Spenard and the surrounding mountains, providing a serene escape with modern amenities and easy airport access.
• The Hotel Captain Cook – This iconic luxury hotel in downtown Anchorage offers elegant rooms with stunning views of Cook Inlet and the Chugach Mountains, featuring fine dining restaurants and world-class amenities.

Modern Mid-Range Hotels

• Hyatt Place Anchorage-Midtown – Modern hotel featuring spacious rooms with separate living areas, 24/7 Gallery Market, and fitness center in the heart of Midtown.
• Aloft Anchorage – Modern, tech-savvy hotel with vibrant design, 24/7 fitness center, and grab-and-go market offering good value for style-conscious travelers.

7. Near the Alaska Railroad Depot – Where to Stay in Anchorage Before or After a Cruise

Cruise Connection Central. The railroad depot serves as the primary transfer point between Anchorage and cruise terminals in Whittier or Seward. Staying nearby means you can walk to your train with luggage instead of arranging transportation.

Historic Transportation Hub. I love the authentic Alaska atmosphere around the depot area, where you can watch the daily arrival and departure of trains carrying cruise passengers and freight to remote communities.

Railroad District Features:

1. Walking distance to Ship Creek salmon viewing
2. Historic downtown attractions nearby
3. Easy luggage handling for train travel
4. Local restaurants catering to travelers

Pre-Cruise Preparation. Hotels in this area understand cruise passenger needs, offering early breakfast, luggage storage, and shuttle services. You can handle last-minute cruise preparations without rushing across the city.

Ship Creek Salmon Viewing. Originally called Dgheyay Kaq’ by the Dena’ina people, Ship Creek remains a popular fishing location. Visit the fish viewing platforms at King’s Landing to watch local anglers or rent a pole and fishing license to try your luck.

Anchorage Mushing District. Just one block east of the depot, see the famous Balto statue and watch iconic mushing competitions like World Championship Sled Dog Races and the ceremonial Iditarod start during winter months. Visit the statue honoring Grandma Olga Ezi, a Dena’ina Athabascan matriarch, and read educational signs about the area’s indigenous heritage. The harbor provides scenic waterfront views and cultural learning opportunities.

Downtown Walking Access. The depot location puts you within easy walking distance of the Anchorage Museum, Town Square Park, and the SEED Lab murals on 6th Avenue, making it perfect for pre- or post-cruise exploration.

Best Hotels Near Alaska Railroad Depot

Luxury Hotels

• Hilton Anchorage – Alaska’s tallest hotel offering premium rooms with panoramic city and mountain views, featuring a fitness center, restaurant, and convenient downtown location steps from the railroad depot.
• The Wildbirch Hotel in JdV by Hyatt – A sophisticated boutique hotel featuring modern loft-style accommodations with upscale amenities and contemporary design in downtown Anchorage.
• Four Points by Sheraton Anchorage Downtown – Contemporary hotel with well-appointed rooms featuring city views, modern amenities, and prime downtown location near the Alaska Railroad Depot.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Historic Anchorage Hotel – A charming boutique hotel in a restored 1916 building offering elegant rooms with period furnishings and modern amenities in the heart of downtown.
• Waterfront Apt, Walk to Town and Coastal Trail! – Budget-friendly apartment-style accommodation with kitchen facilities and waterfront views, ideal for travelers seeking affordable self-catering options.
• Ingra House Hotel – Affordable European-style accommodations offering good value with clean, comfortable rooms and friendly service in a convenient downtown location.

FAQ

What are the best hotels in Anchorage downtown?

The best hotels in Anchorage downtown include Hotel Captain Cook, Hilton Anchorage, and Historic Anchorage Hotel. These downtown hotels offer everything you need for visiting Anchorage with easy access to attractions and restaurants.

Which Marriott Anchorage downtown offers the best amenities?

Marriott Anchorage Downtown provides excellent amenities including a pool, fitness center, and Cafe Promenade restaurant. This hotel in Anchorage offers comfortable stay options in the heart of Anchorage’s business district.

Where should families stay when visiting Anchorage?

Families should consider Embassy Suites by Hilton Anchorage or Holiday Inn Express Anchorage for spacious suites and family amenities. These areas to stay offer easy access to museums and heritage centers plus popular Alaska attractions.

What makes Hotel Captain Cook special in Anchorage?

Hotel Captain Cook stands as one of the best hotels in Anchorage with luxury accommodations and celebrity clientele. This hotel Anchorage landmark offers fine dining, art collections, and stunning glacier views from downtown.

Which inn provides the best value near attractions?

Historic Anchorage Hotel offers excellent value as a boutique inn with 26 elegantly furnished rooms downtown. Here’s where to stay for easy walking access to Ship Creek, Alaska Railroad, and Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson.

How close are Hilton Anchorage rooms to glaciers?

Hilton Anchorage provides stunning views of Cook Inlet and Chugach Mountains from Alaska’s tallest hotel. While glaciers require day trips, this hotel offers concierge services to book glacier cruises and Denali excursions.

What areas to stay offer best lakefront access?

Lakefront Anchorage areas include Spenard near Lake Hood and Westchester Lagoon neighborhoods for water activities. These best neighborhoods provide scenic views while maintaining access to downtown hotels and attractions.

Which Embassy Suites location serves business travelers best?

Embassy Suites by Hilton Anchorage caters to business travelers with meeting facilities and airport shuttle service. This hotel in Anchorage provides suites with separate living areas perfect for extended stay needs.

Where can visitors find bed and breakfast options?

Copper Whale Inn and Susitna Place offer charming bed and breakfast experiences in residential neighborhoods. These B&B options provide local character while staying close to downtown Anchorage’s main attractions.

What hotel offers easiest access to Alaska state attractions?

Sheraton Anchorage Hotel provides central location for accessing Alaska Center for the Performing Arts and state museums. No matter where you stay downtown, you’ll have everything you need to travel to Anchorage’s top cultural sites.