The Ultimate Winter Escape: Your Guide To Enjoying Winter In Alaska
Winter in Alaska doesn’t have to be all about skiing and snowboarding. From cultural events and cozy nights to unexpected outdoor adventures, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of the season.
What’s winter in Alaska like? Winter in Alaska is so much more than skiing and snowboarding. While traditional winter activities will always hold a special place in our hearts, there’s an entire world of unconventional and unique experiences waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re looking for a cozy escape, a cultural outing, or an unexpected way to enjoy the snow, Alaska offers countless ways to embrace the season. Here’s your ultimate guide to making the most of winter in Alaska with activities that go beyond the ordinary!
1. Museum After Dark – Anchorage Museum
Location: Anchorage Museum, 625 C St., Anchorage
Dates: Select Fridays throughout winter (check the Anchorage Museum's website for details)
The Anchorage Museum hosts its Museum After Dark series for an evening of creativity and connection. Each event features a unique theme, along with interactive art activities, live music, and opportunities to mingle with fellow attendees. Whether you’re exploring exhibits with a drink in hand or participating in hands-on workshops, this event adds an element of fun and sophistication to winter nights.
2. Zoo Lights – Alaska Zoo
Location: Alaska Zoo, 4731 O’Malley Road, Anchorage
Dates: Late November 2024 to early January 2025, nightly from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
The Alaska Zoo’s Zoo Lights transforms the grounds into a dazzling winter wonderland. Wander through trails adorned with glowing animal sculptures and festive displays. Don’t forget to stop for hot cocoa at the café to warm up as you enjoy the twinkling lights. It’s a magical outing for kids and adults alike.
3. Jam for Fams – Anchorage
Location: Bear Tooth Theatrepub
Dates: Seasonally, check Jams for Fams’ website for upcoming events
This family-friendly concert series offers an energetic mix of music by DJ Spencer Lee and activities for kids. With sing-alongs, dancing, and interactive music-making, Jam for Fams is perfect for little ones and parents alike.
4. Kick Sledding – Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
Location: Mile 79 Seward Highway, Portage
Dates: Open daily in winter, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Experience the unique Nordic activity of kick sledding at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. Cruise through snowy trails with a fun, easy-to-use sled while taking in views of the center’s resident wildlife, including bears, moose, and bison, in the snow! It’s an active, family-friendly way to enjoy the snow while learning about Alaska’s incredible animals.
5. Soak at Alyeska Nordic Spa – Girdwood
Location: Alyeska Resort, Girdwood
Dates: Open daily; reservations recommended
Escape the cold and treat yourself to ultimate relaxation at the Alyeska Nordic Spa. The outdoor hydrotherapy circuit, which includes hot pools, saunas, and cold plunges, is a rejuvenating experience made even more magical by the snowy mountain views. Pair your soak with a massage or a cozy meal at the spa’s on-site bistro.
6. Indoor Rock Climbing – Anchorage
Location: Alaska Rock Gym, 665 East 33rd Ave, Anchorage
Dates: Open daily
Stay active this winter with a visit to the Alaska Rock Gym, where climbers of all skill levels can test their abilities on indoor walls. It’s a fun and family-friendly way to burn off energy while avoiding the chill outdoors.
7. Arctic Entries – Anchorage
Location: Alaska Center for the Performing Arts, 621 W 6th Ave, Anchorage
Dates: Monthly, check the Arctic Entries website for event dates
Love storytelling? Attend an Arctic Entries show, where locals share true, personal stories live on stage. Each performance features a different theme, offering heartfelt, hilarious, and unforgettable tales that capture the spirit of Alaska.
8. See A Show at the Alaska Performing Arts Center
Location: Alaska Center for the Performing Arts, 621 W 6th Ave, Anchorage
Dates: Year-round (check their calendar for winter performances)
From Broadway musicals to local productions, the Alaska Performing Arts Center offers something for everyone. Winter highlights often include festive performances, symphonies, and community theater shows.
9. Cross-Country Skiing – Kincaid Park
Location: 9401 Raspberry Rd, Anchorage
Dates: Trails open daily; groomed throughout winter
Kincaid Park’s extensive trail system is a paradise for cross-country skiing. With options for all skill levels, you can explore snowy forests and coastal views at your own pace.
10. Take the Aurora Winter Train
Location: Departs from Anchorage, travels to Fairbanks
Dates: Weekends, mid-September through mid-May
Experience Alaska’s winter landscapes from the warmth of the Aurora Winter Train. This scenic rail journey takes you through snow-covered forests, mountain passes, and remote wilderness. On clear nights, you might even spot the northern lights dancing in the sky.
11. Classic Movie Night – Bear Tooth Theatrepub
Location: 1230 W 27th Ave, Anchorage
Dates: Check the Bear Tooth schedule for classic movie screenings
Enjoy a cozy night out at Bear Tooth Theatrepub, where you can catch a classic movie while savoring pizza, local craft beer, or a warm latte. It’s a fun and low-key way to spend a winter evening.
12. Snow Tubing – Arctic Valley
Location: Arctic Valley Ski Area, Anchorage
Dates: Weekends and holidays, December through March
Take the family out for a day of snow tubing at Arctic Valley, where groomed lanes and a rope tow make it easy to slide into winter fun. It’s a thrilling activity that doesn’t require any special skills or equipment—just hop on and go!
13. Ice Skating – Westchester Lagoon
Location: 1824 W 15th Ave, Anchorage
Dates: Family Skate Saturdays through February
Lace up your skates and head to Westchester Lagoon for their weekly Family Skate Saturdays. With music, hot chocolate, and a fun community vibe, it’s the perfect way to embrace the joy of winter.
14. Visit Chena Hot Springs – Fairbanks
Location: 56.5 Chena Hot Springs Rd, Fairbanks
Dates: Open year-round
Warm up with a soak in the natural geothermal pools at Chena Hot Springs, surrounded by snow-covered landscapes. Don’t miss the on-site ice museum, where you can sip a drink from an ice glass in the bar. One of the coldest places in Alaska is almost the most fun!
15. Brighter Winter Nights – Alaska Botanical Garden
Location: 4601 Campbell Airstrip Rd, Anchorage
Dates: Select evenings December through February
The Alaska Botanical Garden comes alive during winter with their Brighter Winter Nights event. Trails are illuminated by thousands of twinkling lights, creating a magical, snow-covered escape. It’s perfect for families or a romantic evening out, complete with fire pits for warming up and hot drinks to keep your hands toasty. Don’t forget to bundle up and enjoy the festive ambiance.
16. Reindeer Walk – Running Reindeer Ranch
Location: 1470 Ivans Alley, Fairbanks
Dates: Open year-round; reservations required
Take a unique winter walk through snowy forests with the friendly reindeer at Running Reindeer Ranch. This interactive tour lets you learn about these fascinating creatures while walking alongside them as they roam freely. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that combines education, wildlife encounters, and beautiful Alaskan scenery.
17. Cooking Classes – The Dirty Apron
Location: 1406 W 33rd Ave, Anchorage
Dates: Weekly; check their website for schedules
Warm up this winter by learning new culinary skills at The Dirty Apron. Their adult cooking classes cover everything from baking to gourmet meals, providing hands-on instruction in a relaxed, fun environment. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced cook, you’ll leave with new skills and recipes to impress your family or friends.
18. Winter Events – South Restaurant’s Back Room
Location: 11124 Old Seward Hwy, Anchorage
Dates: Various dates throughout winter
South Restaurant hosts Back Room Events that are perfect for a winter outing. These special events feature everything from dinners with seasonal menus, wine tastings, Holiday Afternoon Tea, or even a Cocktail Crafting class! Be sure to reserve your spot early, as these events tend to fill up fast.
19. Catch a Hockey Game – Anchorage or Fairbanks
Locations: Sullivan Arena in Anchorage or Carlson Center in Fairbanks
Dates: Ongoing throughout the hockey season
Cheer on local hockey teams and soak in the high-energy atmosphere of an Alaskan hockey game. From fast-paced action on the ice to enthusiastic fans in the stands, it’s a quintessential winter activity and a fun way to support local sports. Check team schedules for upcoming games and ticket details.
Winter in Alaska doesn’t have to be all about skiing and snowboarding. From cultural events and cozy nights to unexpected outdoor adventures, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of the season. So grab your hat and gloves, try something new, and embrace all the magic that Alaskan winter has to offer. You do want to make sure you have the right gear, though, so drop by REI to outfit your winter kit!
You’ll also want to check out these ice sculptures this winter. It’s a must-see!
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