Located in downtown Anchorage, the Anchorage Museum is Alaska's premier destination for exploring the land, peoples, art, and history of the North. Spanning 170,000 square feet, this world-class cultural center offers a deep dive into the state's rich heritage through a collection of 25,000 objects and 500,000 historic photographs. When you visit, you can immerse yourself in over 40,000 square feet of permanent exhibition space.
Walk through the Alaska Gallery to see more than 1,000 objects alongside full-scale and miniature dioramas depicting Native lifestyles, Russian settlement, the gold rush, World War II, and statehood. Head to the seven Art of the North galleries on the ground floor to admire landscape paintings, early European expedition drawings, contemporary works, and a dedicated gallery showcasing Sydney Laurence. Science enthusiasts can explore the interactive Imaginarium Discovery Center, while history lovers will appreciate the Smithsonian Arctic Studies Center wing, which houses 600 Alaska Native artifacts on long-term loan.
Complemented by 16 to 20 changing exhibitions each year, a gift shop, and the Muse restaurant, this impressive facility gives you an authentic, comprehensive look into the heart of Alaska and the circumpolar North.
What to see at Anchorage Museum
- Alaska Gallery featuring 1,000+ objects and historical dioramas
- Smithsonian Arctic Studies Center with 600 Alaska Native artifacts
- Seven Art of the North galleries, including works by Sydney Laurence
- Imaginarium Discovery Center science galleries
- 16–20 rotating special exhibitions presented annually
Visiting tips
Be sure to stop by the new wing during your visit to dine at Muse restaurant and explore the museum gift shop.
How long: 2-3 hours · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Anchorage Museum is easy to reach on Anchorage’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Alaska Aviation Museum and Alaska Native Heritage Center. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Anchorage travel guide.
See the full Anchorage travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.