Anchorage Airport to Adventure: Where to Go First When You Land

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Landing at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) is just the beginning of your Alaskan adventure. With an AVIS Alaska rental car, you can seamlessly transition from the airport gate to the great outdoors. In this guide, we’ll highlight scenic pitstops along the Seward Highway, top lunch spots near the airport, quick hikes within a 30-minute drive, and the best grocery stores to stock up before you head off into Alaska’s wilderness.

Scenic Pitstops En Route from ANC

Beluga Point

Just a 25-minute drive south along the Seward Highway, Beluga Point offers sweeping views of Turnagain Arm. Look for beluga whales feeding in the inlet and Dall sheep on the cliffs.

Point Woronzof

A 15-minute drive from the airport via Northern Lights Boulevard brings you to Point Woronzof, where you can enjoy panoramic vistas of Cook Inlet and Mount Susitna. It’s also a popular spot for plane spotting as jets descend into ANC.

Top Lunch Spots Near the Airport

Humpy’s Great Alaska Alehouse

Humpy’s is located inside the airport terminal and offers hearty Alaskan fare like seafood chowder and reindeer sausages. It’s a convenient first meal without leaving the airport grounds.

49th State Brewing (ANC Airport Terminal)

Just steps from baggage claim, 49th State Brewing serves craft beers and classic pub dishes. Their salmon burgers and ale-battered fish’ n’ chips are perfect for fueling up before hitting the road.

Short Hikes to Stretch Your Legs

Flattop Mountain Trail

A 20-minute drive to Glen Alps Trailhead leads you to the most climbed mountain in Alaska. The 1.5-mile trail to the summit offers city skyline views and Cook Inlet panoramas, taking about 45–60 minutes round trip.

Potter Marsh Boardwalk

Just 15 minutes from ANC, this easy 0.5-mile boardwalk through wetland habitat is ideal for birdwatching. Look for trumpeter swans and bald eagles against the backdrop of the Chugach Mountains.

Best Grocery Stores for Stocking Up

Carrs Safeway (Northern Lights Blvd)

Only a 10-minute drive west, Carrs on Northern Lights Boulevard offers an extensive deli, bakery, and fresh produce section to prepare for your road trip.

Fred Meyer (Multiple Locations)

With several Anchorage locations, Fred Meyer provides everything from camping gear to groceries. In fact, the store at Dimond Boulevard is about 12 minutes from ANC and ideal for last-minute supplies.

New Central Market

A local favorite just 8 minutes from the airport, New Central Market specializes in organic produce and Alaskan artisan products—perfect for those seeking local flavors.

Additional Tips for a Smooth Start

  • Use Apps for Traffic and Conditions: Apps like Waze and Alaska 511 help you avoid congestion and check highway closures before setting off.
  • Pack Layers: Anchorage weather can shift rapidly. Layer up to stay comfortable during hikes and scenic stops.
  • Refuel Early: Gas stations become sparse outside city limits—fill up in Anchorage before heading to remote destinations.

With these pitstops and tips, your Alaskan journey begins the moment you leave the airport. Rent an AVIS Alaska vehicle, set your GPS, and embrace the adventure that awaits!