Archive for year: 2025

Welcome to Anchorage! You made it. Whether you’re flying in for your very first Alaska adventure or you’re a returning fan of the Last Frontier (we see you, serial visitors), one of the first questions on your mind after landing at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport is probably:

“Where am I sleeping tonight?”

As your trusty car rental company, we at AVIS Alaska don’t technically offer hotels. But we’ve driven many roads, chatted with many travelers, and helped folks all over the state figure out their road trip game plans—which definitely include where to lay their heads at night.

So if you just Googled “hotels near me” or “cheap hotels near me”, you’re in the right place. We’re here to walk you through your options—by neighborhood, budget, and travel vibe—so you can spend less time stressing and more time planning your next stop (like a glacier cruise, maybe? Just sayin’).

Downtown Anchorage: Walkable, Central, and Full of Character

Distance from Airport: ~15 minutes by car

Why Stay Here: Close to restaurants, museums, and the best urban moose-spotting in the world

Downtown Anchorage is great if you don’t plan to rent a car right away or want to walk to food, shops, and attractions like the Anchorage Museum or the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. Plus, many tour buses and shuttles leave from this area.

Hotel Options:

• The Voyager Inn – Quiet, clean, and includes breakfast. Great for first-timers.
• Four Points by Sheraton – Higher-end, but often has seasonal deals.
• Westmark Anchorage Hotel – A centrally located, mid-range stay with balcony views of the mountains or city.
• Hilton Anchorage – An upscale downtown option with scenic views and easy access to the waterfront.

Tip: Use apps like Hotels.com, Kayak, or Google Hotels to filter by price and find same-day deals.

Midtown Anchorage: Convenient and Budget-Friendly

Distance from Airport: ~10–12 minutes

Why Stay Here: Close to chain restaurants, shopping, and cheaper than downtown

Midtown is Anchorage’s “Goldilocks” zone. It’s not far from downtown or the airport, and you can usually snag cheap hotels that are still clean, safe, and close to essentials (hello, late-night Fred Meyer snacks).

Hotel Options:

• My Place Hotel – A solid budget hotel with kitchenettes.
• SpringHill Suites Midtown – Great for families with complimentary breakfast and a pool.
• La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham – Affordable with consistent quality.

Midtown Bonus: You’re near a ton of food options—from Korean BBQ to burritos as big as your head (seriously, check out Bear Tooth).

Spenard: Airport Proximity & No-Frills Comfort

Distance from Airport: 5 minutes (some are walkable!)

Why Stay Here: Ideal for early flights or quick overnight layovers

Spenard is the neighborhood surrounding the airport. If you’re just here for a night or flying out early, it’s a no-brainer. It’s not the fanciest area, but it’s practical and has some quirky Alaska charm.

Hotel Options:

• Puffin Inn – A classic budget pick with a free shuttle and friendly staff.
• Comfort Suites Airport – Free breakfast, spacious rooms, and reliable service.
• Alex Hotel & Suites – Older but affordable with basic amenities.
• Coast Inn at Lake Hood – Lake views and floatplane-watching? Yes, please.

Girdwood: Mountain Town Vibes (If You’re Renting a Car)

Distance from Anchorage: ~45 minutes south

Why Stay Here: Scenic drive, access to Alyeska Resort, and close to Turnagain Arm

If you’re up for a mini road trip (and you’ve rented a sweet ride from us at AVIS Alaska, wink wink), Girdwood is a lovely mountain town tucked into the Chugach Mountains. It’s perfect for couples or solo travelers who want a cozy escape with stunning surroundings.

Lodging Options:

• Alyeska Resort – Not super cheap, but always a memorable experience.
• Carriage House Accommodations – Cozy and close to hiking trails.

Bonus Tip: Head to The Bake Shop for cinnamon rolls the size of your steering wheel.

Talkeetna: Quirky, Historic, and Worth the Drive

Distance from Anchorage: ~2 hours north

Why Stay Here: Cool small-town vibe, gateway to Denali, and cute local inns

Talkeetna is for the artsy, adventure-loving crowd. It’s a great overnight stop if you’re road-tripping toward Denali or Fairbanks and want to break up the drive with good food, walkable charm, and a scenic flight tour.

Lodging Options:

• Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge – Stunning views of Denali on a clear day.
• Swiss Alaska Inn – Affordable and tucked into the trees.
• Denali Fireside Cabins & Suites – A mix of modern and rustic for the perfect Alaska vibe.

Pro Tip: Book early in summer—Talkeetna is small and fills fast.

Tools to Find “Hotels Near Me” on the Fly

Whether you’re planning ahead or winging it (we’ve all been there), here are some tools to help you score a hotel fast:

• Google Maps: Type “cheap hotels near me” or “hotels near Anchorage” for quick visuals and directions.
• Booking.com: Offers flexible cancellation and user reviews.
• HotelTonight: Great for last-minute deals and hidden gems.
• Expedia: Easy bundling if you need to book flights too.

Rental Reminder: No matter where you stay, we can meet you at the airport or in town to get your AVIS Alaska rental car ready for the next leg of your journey.

Final Thoughts from Your Favorite Car Rental Crew

We know the search for the perfect “cheap hotel near me” can feel overwhelming—especially in a place as spread out and diverse as Alaska. But the good news? Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly overnight spot near the airport or a cozy cabin in Talkeetna, Anchorage is the perfect base camp for your adventure.

So find your pillow, grab your keys (we’ve got those covered), and start exploring. You’ve got miles of Alaska waiting—and we’re glad you’re here for the ride.

Welcome to the Land of Road Trip Dreams!

If you’re flying into Anchorage, picking up your AVIS Alaska rental car, and setting off into the wild, we’ve got two words for you: Google Maps. This humble little app on your phone is a road tripper’s best friend, especially in a state like Alaska where cell service can vanish quicker than a salmon in bear country.

Let’s talk about how to use Google Maps (plus a few other app recommendations) to plan the perfect Alaska road trip — whether you’re going glacier hopping on the Kenai Peninsula, wildlife watching near Denali or taking the long haul up to Fairbanks under the Midnight Sun.

Step 1: Save All the Places You Want to Go

Before you land at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport and rev up your AVIS rental, create a custom map with all your must-see stops.

How to Save a Location in Google Maps:

1. Open Google Maps.
2. Search for a place you want to visit — e.g., “Exit Glacier.”
3. Tap on it and hit “Save” (you can choose a list like “Favorites,” “Want to Go,” or create your own — we like “Alaska 2025!”).
4. Rinse and repeat for every hike, photo op, wildlife sanctuary, or bakery you hear about on TikTok.

Pro Tip: Once you’ve saved multiple places, they’ll show up as little yellow stars (or even a custom emoji!) on your map — super helpful when planning your route or choosing where to stop for lunch.

Step 2: Build a Multi-Stop Road Trip Itinerary

Google Maps lets you build routes with multiple stops, which is great for scenic Alaska detours and essential coffee stops in quirky towns.

How to Create a Route With Multiple Stops:

1. Open Google Maps.
2. Tap “Directions.”
3. Enter your starting point (like “ANC Airport” or your hotel).
4. Tap the three dots in the corner, then choose “Add stop.”
5. Add up to 9 stops (or make multiple routes if you plan a longer journey).

Example:

Anchorage → Girdwood (lunch) → Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center → Whittier Tunnel → Portage Glacier.

You can even reorder the stops by dragging them up or down to optimize your route (less backtracking = more time for moose spotting).

Step 3: Download Offline Maps (Because Alaska)

Alaska’s natural beauty is unmatched. Cell coverage? Not so much. Once you leave Anchorage, you might find yourself navigating by moose-sighting rather than signal bars. That’s where Offline Maps come in.

How to Download an Offline Map in Google Maps:

1. In Google Maps, tap your profile icon in the top-right corner.
2. Tap “Offline maps”> “Select your map.”
3. Zoom in on the area you’ll explore — like the drive from Anchorage to Seward.
4. Tap “Download.”

Each map is a few hundred megabytes, so download over Wi-Fi before you hit the road.

Pro Tip: Download multiple regions if you’re doing a big loop — say, Anchorage → Delta-Junction → Fairbanks → Denali → back to Anchorage.

Step 4: Use Google My Maps for Big Trip Planning (Optional but Awesome)

If you color-code your packing list or treat itinerary planning like an Olympic sport (no judgment—we love that for you), check out Google My Maps.

• Create a custom map on your computer.
• Add layers for categories like “Lodging,” “Hikes,” “Scenic Pull-offs,” and “Coffee.”
• Share it with your travel buddies for easy planning.
• Open the map from the Google Maps app on your phone!

This is especially helpful if you’re splitting your trip between regions (e.g., Kenai Peninsula week 1, Denali week 2) and want to organize everything visually.

Step 5: Bonus Apps to Pair with Google Maps

Here at AVIS Alaska, we’ve seen a lot of travelers over the years, and these apps get two big thumbs-up from us:

• Alaska 511 – Live road conditions, construction alerts, and traffic cams.
• AllTrails – Great for finding nearby hikes, reading trail reviews, and tracking your route.
• iOverlander – A favorite of RVers and car campers for finding free camping spots, bathrooms, and more.
• GasBuddy – Because some stretches of Alaska have gas stations that are 100+ miles apart.

Real Talk: Know Before You Go

Google Maps is magical — but even magic has limits in the Last Frontier. Keep these tips in mind:

No Gravel Roads: Most rental car agreements (including ours) don’t allow travel on gravel roads, which rules out places like the Denali Highway or McCarthy Road. If you’re unsure, ask our AVIS team before you head out!

Carry an Emergency Kit: Even if your phone is offline, you’ll want basics like water, snacks, a flashlight, and a printed map — just in case. You can grab these supplies at Anchorage’s Fred Meyer or REI before you hit the road.

Don’t Rely on Voice Navigation: Once you’re offline, you can still navigate using downloaded maps, but voice directions might not work — make sure you review your route beforehand.

So, Where to First?

Whether heading down to Seward for a whale cruise, cruising toward Denali for a hike among the giants, or doing a good ol’ Anchorage to Fairbanks road trip, Google Maps can help you do it smarter — and with fewer wrong turns.

We at AVIS Alaska are stoked to be your road trip sidekick. Our rental cars are prepped and ready to take you through some of the most stunning drives in the world. So grab your smartphone, plan your dream route, and let’s hit the road.

Your Alaska adventure starts with a tap, a map, and a set of keys. See you on the highway.

Need a rental car for your Alaska road trip?

Book your vehicle today with AVIS Alaska, available in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, and more. Let the journey begin.

Reserve your car now!

Spring in Alaska is like nature hitting the snooze button—everything wakes up slowly, but once it does, it’s an explosion of life. The snow starts melting, the days get longer, and the wildlife reappears in full force. If you’re visiting Alaska in April, you’re in for a treat: bears are coming out of hibernation, moose are on the move, and migratory birds are arriving in massive flocks. And the best part? You can witness it all with a reliable AVIS Alaska rental car, taking you exactly where the action around wildlife spotting is.

So, where should you go? What should you look for? And how do you avoid turning a casual wildlife-spotting drive into a surprise bear encounter? We’ve got you covered.

1. Best Places to Spot Bears Emerging from Hibernation

By April, Alaska’s bears are finally rolling out of bed, stretching their legs, and looking for food. This is prime time to see them—just maybe from a safe distance.

Where to Go:

• Turnagain Arm & Girdwood (1-hour drive from Anchorage) – Drive along the Seward Highway, and you might catch black bears scavenging along the coastline.
• Kenai National Wildlife Refuge (3-hour drive from Anchorage) – Early spring is when brown bears wake up in this vast wilderness.
• Denali National Park (5-hour drive from Anchorage, seasonal road access) – While the park isn’t fully open yet, the first section of the road often allows early glimpses of bears.

Pro Tips for Spotting Bears:

• Look near rivers, estuaries, and coastlines—these areas thaw first, offering hungry bears their first meals.
• Dawn and dusk are your best times to spot them. Bears prefer to be active when the light is low.
• Bring binoculars (and a zoom lens). Getting too close is not recommended unless you enjoy the idea of being a bear’s brunch.

2. Moose on the Move: Where to Find Them in Spring

Moose are everywhere in Alaska. They don’t hibernate but move around a lot more in the spring as they search for fresh vegetation.

Where to Go:

• Kincaid Park (Anchorage) – One of the best places to spot moose without even leaving the city!
• Potter Marsh (Anchorage) – Moose are often seen wading through this wetland area.
• Hatcher Pass (1.5-hour drive from Anchorage, road conditions permitting) – The scenic drive here offers prime moose-spotting opportunities.

Pro Tips for Spotting Moose:

• They love wetlands and areas where fresh greenery is popping up.
• Keep a lookout while driving—moose often wander onto roads, especially at Dawn and dusk.
• If you see a mother with a calf, give them plenty of space—moose moms don’t mess around when it comes to protecting their babies.

3. Birdwatching in Spring: The Great Migration Begins

Spring is when thousands of birds return to Alaska, making it one of the best times for birdwatching. If you love spotting rare species, this is your season!

Where to Go:

• Potter Marsh (Anchorage) – A hotspot for waterfowl like trumpeter swans and Canadian geese.
• Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge (Fairbanks) – One of the best places to watch migratory birds touch down.
• Homer Spit (Homer, 4.5-hour drive from Anchorage) – By late April, this area is packed with shorebirds getting ready for the Kachemak Bay Shorebird Festival in May.

Pro Tips for Birdwatching:

• Bring a good pair of binoculars—birds won’t always pose for close-ups.
• Mornings are usually the best time to see active birds.
• Check out birding apps like Merlin Bird ID or eBird to track sightings in real-time.

4. Bonus Wildlife Sightings: Caribou, Wolves, and More

While bears, moose, and birds steal the show, plenty of other animals wake up and make moves in April.

• Caribou – You might see them in Denali or along the Dalton Highway.
• Wolves – These are more elusive, but early morning in Denali or Kenai Peninsula can yield sightings.
• Dall Sheep – Look up! These white mountain goats love hanging out on cliffsides along the Seward Highway.

Wildlife Spotting Safety Tips (a.k.a. How Not to Get Eaten or Trampled)

• Keep Your Distance—No matter how cute or majestic an animal looks, it does not want a selfie with you. Stay at least 300 yards from bears and 50 yards from moose.
• Use Your Car as a Viewing Blind—One of the perks of renting a car is that you can stay inside while watching wildlife safely.
• Don’t Feed the Animals – Ever. Feeding wildlife disrupts their natural behaviors and can make them dangerous.
• Carry Bear Spray (If Hiking)—Bear spray is a must–have for safety if you plan to explore on foot.
• Check Road Conditions—Spring means some roads are still icy or muddy. Before heading out, check 511.alaska.gov.

Ready to Explore? Rent with AVIS Alaska!

Spring wildlife spotting in Alaska is an unforgettable experience, and the best way to do it is with a reliable rental car. Whether you’re chasing bear sightings on the Kenai Peninsula, moose-watching in Anchorage, or heading to Fairbanks for birdwatching, AVIS Alaska has the perfect vehicle to get you there.

Book your rental today and hit the road for an epic wildlife adventure!

When you think of renting a car, chances are you picture tourists navigating unfamiliar streets, snapping selfies in front of iconic landmarks, or cramming way too many suitcases into the trunk of a compact sedan. But guess what? Renting cars isn’t just for visitors. Alaska locals rent cars knowing that borrowing a vehicle can sometimes make much more sense than using your own.

At AVIS Alaska, we’ve seen it all—local folks renting SUVs for a weekend family reunion, adventurous souls taking a test drive in a model they’ve been eyeing, and even people renting cars to avoid the hassle of shoveling their own vehicle out of the snow. Renting a car as a local is practical, versatile, and, dare we say, fun. Let’s dive into why Alaska locals rent cars and why it might be the perfect solution for you, too.

1. Special Occasions

Are you planning a big event like a wedding or a milestone birthday? Renting a car can add that extra touch of class (or practicality) to the occasion.

• Weddings: Many locals rent luxury sedans or SUVs to transport the wedding party in style. It also saves your cousin’s 15-year-old Subaru from an awkward breakdown en route to the ceremony.
• Anniversaries: Why not treat yourself and your partner to a sleek ride for your special day? Nothing says romance like cruising along Alaska’s coastal highways in a luxurious vehicle.

2. Group Trips and Family Reunions

When the whole family comes to town, your trusty sedan just won’t cut it. Renting a larger vehicle can make group travel much easier and more enjoyable.

• Minivans and SUVs: Perfect for hauling cousins, grandparents, and toddlers on a road trip to Denali National Park.
• Passenger Vans: For extra-large gatherings, a passenger van lets everyone stick together (and guarantees that no one gets lost on the way to the campsite).
• Splitting Costs: Renting a car for group travel is often cheaper than using multiple vehicles, especially when you split the cost with family or friends.

3. Testing Out a New Car Model

Car shopping can be stressful. How do you know if a vehicle is the right fit until you’ve spent more than 20 minutes with a salesperson breathing down your neck? Renting a car allows you to test-drive a model in real-world conditions—without the pressure.

• Extended Test Drives: Spend a weekend driving that new SUV through Anchorage, up the Glenn Highway, or out to your favorite hiking trail.
• Seasonal Testing: Wondering how a car handles in winter conditions? Rent it in January and see for yourself.
• Comparison Shopping: Not sure if you want a sedan, an SUV, or a truck? Rent one of each over a few weeks to find your perfect match.

4. Road Trips Without the Wear and Tear

Alaska is a road-trippers dream, but those long drives can take a toll on your personal vehicle. Renting a car means you can explore the Last Frontier without worrying about racking up mileage or dealing with repairs down the road.

• Explore Without Limits: Hit the Seward Highway, cruise the scenic Denali Highway, or venture up to Fairbanks—all without a second thought about your car’s odometer.
• Peace of Mind: Rental cars are maintained and serviced regularly, making you less likely to encounter issues during your trip. And if something does happen? AVIS Alaska has you covered with roadside assistance.
• Perfect for Seasonal Travel: If you drive a compact car but want to explore Alaska’s backroads, renting a 4×4 for the weekend is a no-brainer.

5. Downtime for Repairs

Car trouble happens to the best of us, and it’s never convenient. But with a rental car, you don’t have to put your life on hold while your vehicle is in the shop.

• Short-Term Solutions: Whether your car needs a day in the shop or a week-long overhaul, a rental ensures you’re not stuck bumming rides.
• Keep Your Routine: School drop-offs, grocery runs, and work commutes don’t stop because your car is out of commission. A rental keeps your life moving smoothly.
• Upgrade Your Ride: If you’ll be without your car for a while, why not take the opportunity to drive something a little fancier?

6. Avoiding Alaska’s Winter Woes

Winter in Alaska is no joke; sometimes, renting a car is easier than dealing with your own.

• Snowstorms: When a surprise snowstorm hits and your vehicle isn’t equipped for icy roads, renting a car with snow tires or 4WD is a safe choice.
• Seasonal Visitors: Hosting family for the holidays? Renting an extra vehicle can save you from playing chauffeur all week.
• Breakdowns: Cold weather can be tough on cars. If your battery dies or your engine refuses to start, a rental is a quick fix while you sort out repairs.

7. Staycation Adventures

Who says you have to leave Alaska to go on vacation? Renting a car can make your staycation feel like a brand-new adventure.

• Explore New Places: Rent a convertible and take a leisurely drive to Girdwood or Homer, just because you can.
• Plan a Day Trip: Pack up a rental SUV with gear and head out for hiking, fishing, or skiing.
• Experience Something New: Have you always wanted to drive a hybrid? Or a rugged off-road vehicle? Renting lets you check it off your bucket list.

Why Alaska Locals Rent Cars From AVIS Alaska

At AVIS Alaska, we understand Alaskans’ unique needs. We’re not just a rental car company but part of the community.

• Wide Selection: From compact cars to rugged SUVs, we’ve got a vehicle for every occasion.
• Flexible Rentals: Whether you need a car for a day, a weekend, or longer, we’ve got you covered.
• Local Knowledge: Our team knows Alaska inside and out, and we’re always happy to share tips on the best routes, attractions, and hidden gems.

Renting a car isn’t just for out-of-towners. Whether planning a big event, tackling Alaska’s rugged terrain, or simply looking for a bit of adventure, renting a car as a local makes life easier—and a lot more fun. So, the next time you’re weighing your options, call AVIS Alaska. We’ve got the keys to your perfect ride.