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How to Get to Anchorage

How to Get to Anchorage

Anchorage Alaska, USA Travel Guide

Air Travel

Airport Access

Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) is the only major airport directly serving Anchorage. It acts as a major hub for both passenger and cargo traffic.

Airport Services

  • Major hub for passenger and cargo.
  • Free Wi-Fi available throughout terminal.
  • Various restaurants, cafes, shops, and duty-free stores.

Airlines & Routes

ANC links Anchorage to various domestic and limited international destinations. Alaska Airlines works as the major hub airline.

Connections

  • Domestic Airlines: Alaska Airlines, Delta, United, American Airlines, and Southwest (seasonal).
  • Direct flights from major U.S. Cities like Seattle, Portland, Minneapolis, Denver, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, and San Francisco.
  • International Airlines: Limited direct international flights. Most travelers connect through a major U.S. Hub.

Peak Season Summer

June-August: Prices are highest due to increased tourism. Airlines run more frequent flights and add seasonal routes. Booking 3-6 months in advance is highly advised.

Shoulder Seasons

May, September: Prices are typically lower than peak summer, and flight options remain relatively good. This period is a balance of accessibility and value.

Low Season Winter

October-April: Prices are significantly lower. Flight frequency may decrease, and some direct seasonal routes are absent. Consider connecting through Seattle for year-round service.

Airport Transfers

Convenient Choices

  • Taxi: Available outside baggage claim. Flat rates to downtown areas are common, typically $25-35.
  • Ride-sharing: Uber and Lyft operate from designated pick-up areas. This option gives competitive pricing.
  • People Mover Bus: Route 7A connects the airport to downtown Anchorage. Fare is approximately $2.00-$2.50.
  • Hotel Shuttles: Many hotels in Anchorage have complimentary shuttle services for their guests.

Flexibility

  • Car Rental: A complimentary shuttle takes you to the off-site rental car center where you pick up your vehicle.
  • This choice has the most flexibility for exploring Anchorage and beyond.
  • It permits access to more remote areas.
  • Booking your rental car well in advance is highly advised, especially for summer travel.

Airport Amenities

Dining & Shopping

Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) has various restaurants, cafes, shops, and duty-free stores.

Connectivity

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal. ATMs are readily accessible for your convenience.

Rentals & Storage

Car rental counters are inside the terminal. Baggage storage services are also available for those with layovers or excursions.

Land Transportation

Train Journeys

The Alaska Railroad passenger service operates mainly during the summer season, typically from late May to mid-September. It is a popular method to see Alaska's landscapes.

Scenic Routes

  • Coastal Classic: Travels south from Anchorage to Seward, views of Turnagain Arm.
  • Glacier Discovery: Links Anchorage to Whittier and Spencer Glacier.
  • Denali Star: Journeys north from Anchorage to Fairbanks, with stops at Talkeetna and Denali National Park.

Bus Travel

Long-distance bus choices in Alaska are fewer compared to other U.S. Regions, but they do serve tourist destinations.

Bus Companies

  • Park Connection Motorcoach: Seasonal links (May-September) between Anchorage and Seward, Denali National Park, and Fairbanks.
  • Alaska/Yukon Trails: This company also delivers transportation linking Anchorage to Denali National Park and Fairbanks.
  • These bus services are a practical method to travel between popular destinations without a rental car.

Driving Your Own Way

Renting a car has much flexibility for exploring Anchorage and its surroundings.

Rental Details

  • Requirements: A valid driver's license from your home country (IDP advised if not in English).
  • Minimum Age: Typically 21, but renters under 25 may have a young driver surcharge.
  • Payment: A major credit card in the renter's name is always a must for the rental.

Road Conditions & Safety

Major routes, like the Seward Highway and Glenn Highway, are paved and well-maintained. However, many rural or wilderness access roads are gravel. Winter driving needs experience with snow and ice.

Important Tips

  • Vehicle: A 4x4 or AWD vehicle is highly advised for winter travel or accessing unpaved roads.
  • Safety: Long distances between towns mean limited services. Plan fuel stops. Watch for wildlife on roads.
  • Check Alaska 511 for current road conditions, closures, and construction before any long drive.

Water Travel & Borders

  • Border Crossing: Not applicable; Anchorage is within the United States. No land border crossing.
  • Cruise Ports: Major cruise ships typically arrive in Seward or Whittier (2-3 hours drive/train south of Anchorage).
  • Alaska Marine Highway System: State ferry links coastal communities but not directly Anchorage.
  • River Transportation: Not an usual mode for inter-city passenger travel for tourists. Used for specific tours (rafting, fishing charters).
  • Immigration at Seaports: Standard U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) procedures for international arrivals at ports like Seward or Whittier.
  • Connections to Land: Extensive bus and train transfers are widely available from Seward and Whittier to Anchorage.

Departure

Departure Logistics

Planning your departure from Anchorage has equal weight as your arrival. Be prepared for a smooth exit.

Exit Details

  • Exit Fees: No specific exit fees for departing passengers from Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC). Airline tickets typically include all needed taxes and fees.
  • Timing: For domestic flights, arrive at ANC at least 2 hours prior. For international, allow at least 3 hours. Security lines may be long.
  • Factor in time for returning rental cars, which needs a shuttle ride from the rental car center to the terminal.

Airport Facilities

Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) has various facilities for departing travelers, making waits more comfortable.

Traveler Amenities

  • Dining & Shopping: A selection of restaurants, cafes, shops, and gift shops for last-minute Alaska Souvenir Keychains or local products.
  • Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal for all passengers.
  • Lounges: Offer a more comfortable waiting area for eligible passengers before their flights.