Anchorage

Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city is more like a large town. Its population according to the census of the year 2000 was 260283 making it Americas 60th largest populated area (Buffalo New York and Raleigh north Carolina are larger). This gives anchorage a unique feeling of being a states largest city and having such a low population. However even though anchorage has so few people compared to Americas other cities it still accounts for 41.5% of the states total population which really shows what a wilderness this state really is.

Anchorage is the heart of Alaska’s financial and economic make up and houses its main business centre and as such has a thriving centre with skyscrapers and a modern feel.

Situated at the top of the cook inlet and west of the chugach state park anchorage is approximately 838 miles by road and sea from the state capital Juneau and  357 miles south by road of Fairbanks.

Captain James cook is credited as the first explorer from outside Alaska to discover the anchorage region in 1778 of his third voyage of discovery, the following century saw increased trade from Russia and Russian cultural influence increased until in 1867 problems in the homeland forced Russia to sell Russian America to the united states for the sum of $7,200,000 and established Anchorage as the states capital, the gold rush followed and the wealth of region increased resulting in the building of the railroads which enabled the region to flourish. Nowadays of course things have changed and although the history is still very prominent it is the scenery of the region that brings people to the area.

Anchorage is a great place to start any trip to Alaska as access to the national parks and most visited regions of the state is easy from the city. The Ted Stevens international airport offers offers easy access to the state and with the Alaskan railroad and excellent car and motor home hire companies accessing the rest of the state from anchorage has never been easier.

Things to do in anchorage itself include anchorage zoo where you will see a variety of native wildlife including the black, grizzly and polar bears that can be found in the wilds of Alaska. There is also a heritage centre which will give you an insight into the heritage, history and culture of the region. Many museums and parks also make for things to do here. Perhaps the most rewarding experience you will encounter is a trip to the world famous prince William sound where you board a boat and visit some of the most incredible views you will ever see, pass the mountains and glaciers, spot whales and other wildlife in their natural setting and you can not fail to enjoy this truly unforgettable and breathtaking experience.