Alaska February 2025
It’s magical in any season and I would encourage you to not think of Alaska as a “bucket list trip”, and instead think of it as a destination worth exploring again and again! I am personally not a cruise person, but I did experienced Alaska on a cruise. I enjoyed it, don’t get me wrong, but I planned to return there and experience Alaska by land.
Opportunity arrived when I got an invitation from Alaska and Anchorage tourist office for #AmasingAlaskaExperience
I did not hesitate to jump on it despite of all friends and family “Why are you going to Alaska in winter?”, “What is there to do in Alaska in February?”
I don’t know why, just because I can! I said to people, I will come back and will let you know.
So, why Alaska? People visit Alaska for stunning natural beauty, wildlife, glaciers, Northern Lights, world class fishing, dog sledding, hiking, adventure. And food! Since I am a foodie, I was determined to try the best restaurants and experience cuisine what Anchorage offers
So I packed my bags (this included some shopping to be done for this Florida girl 😊), and soon I was on the way to Anchorage. To get to Anchorage from the East coast, you can fly in winter connecting in Seattle or Atlanta. In Summer there is direct flight from JFK.
On February 4, I flew from Tampa with connection in Seattle to Anchorage on Delta. During layover, I enjoyed lunch in Seattle airport at Salty’s at The Sea. I had a bowl of clam chowder with added sourdough garlic toast and added Dungeness, it was delicious and very filling! I could not decide on coffee or ice cream, so I had Italian desert Affogato – with local creamery Irish cream ice cream, and biscotti.
I landed in Anchorage in the evening.
I checked into Captain Cook Hotel in Anchorage, only 5 miles away from airport.
It is the most iconic and historic hotel, independently owned. Built in 1965 by Alaskan businessman Walter J. Hickel, who later became the Governor of Alaska (twice). Named after Captain James Cook, the British explorer who mapped much of Alaska’s coastline in the 1700s. Opened as a single tower but expanded over the years into a four-tower luxury hotel. After the 1964 Good Friday Earthquake, the most powerful earthquake in U.S. history, Anchorage needed new infrastructure and businesses. The hotel became a symbol of resilience and modernization, helping attract visitors and business travelers. Known as Anchorage’s premier luxury hotel, with fine dining, shops, and a rich Alaskan atmosphere. The hotel featured tributes to Captain Cook’s voyages, with historical maps and artwork throughout the property. I checked into my room, it was warm, and cozy (as can be a 1 bedroom suite!), and I was fast asleep after long day.
February 5, Next morning, with 4 hour time difference, I woke up early and at 7am I already was at my first food stop recommended to me by locals – Snow City Café! Usually it is a line to get in, but at 7am I was not a problem.
I opted for local specialty called Kodiak: poached eggs, Alaska red king crab cakes, toasted English muffin, house made hollandaise, green onion.I also wanted to take to go their famous Pecan Sticky buns to go but they suggested to warm up for me a half, which was huge and I took another half with me. The staff was very friendly and it was my first introduction to Alaska people.
Exiting from Café, I watched with awe spectacular sunrise. 
I walked downtown Anchorage. The weather cooperated and I enjoyed clear skies, sun and crisp cold air. Anchorage is a surprisingly walkable city with scenic trails, urban parks, and great waterfront views. I checked out historic downtown with shops, galleries, murals, and walked some forested trails with views of Cook Inlet.
I went for lunch at Glacier Brewhouse, it is a popular brewery in Anchorage, known for its craft beer, wood-grilled seafood, and cozy Alaskan atmosphere. I opted for their Blond Ale for a drink, crisp and refreshing, the malt body was light and complimented by a mild cascade hop aroma and a smooth creamy finish. I had king salmon with smashed potatoes, tomatoes and green beens. It was delicious.
I was ready for a nap after that and in the late afternoon I took a taxi to Anchorage Lakefront Hotel where I met my group. The Lakefront Anchorage Hotel is a unique, lakefront scenic hotel located on the shores of Lake Spenard and Lake Hood, just a few minutes from the airport, overlooking Lake Hood, the world’s busiest seaplane base.
Next morning, we met with our guides – representatives from Visit Anchorage. The trip started with a kickoff breakfast in local restaurant Middle Way Café. I tried Reindeer Sausage with whole grain pancakes. After breakfast we left for Alyeska resort in Girdwood about 40 minutes away driving on a scenic road on Seward Highway. We stopped a few times to admire winter scenery, moving water at Turnagain arm, a stunning waterway with dramatic tides!
We arrived at Alyeska resort, known for world-class skiing, scenic tram rides, and luxury accommodations. It is Luxury alpine lodge with spa, heated indoor pool, and mountain views. We took an aerial tram to the skiing area and while I do not ski, I enjoyed walking around and take photos of skiers. Afterwards, we went for different activities everyone selected. I opted for Nordic Spa which is the only one outdoor winter spa in USA.
The spa is surrounded by the northernmost rainforest. The expansive spa facility provides visitors with an opportunity to enjoy a 50,000 sq. ft. series of outdoor hot, warm, and cool Hydrotherapy pools, massage treatments, and wellness experiences. We had a reservation for Hydrotherapy Access and enjoyed access to multiple pools and saunas. We had lunch (in cozy robes) at Two Trees Bistro at the spa, excellent friendly service and enjoyed healthy choices inspired by the wild landscapes of Alaska.
After spa, we checked in. The luggage was already delivered to the rooms – that’s the service of Alyeska! In 2024 they also started their concierge level Black Diamond club on their eight floor. The customers at this club have concierge level upgraded amenities with breakfast, snacks and concierge service to assist them in their stay experience, booking excursions etc. Many areas of resort are accessible to handicapped.
We went for dinner to Jack Sprats in Girdwood by Alyeska shuttle. The shuttle was full of skiers returning from skiing or going to nigh skiing. Jack Sprats it’s a local favorite, serving both carnivore and vegans, creative menu. No reservations, you wait outside, by they had a fire going outside and we did shop at th
e neighboring store while waiting. They also provided drinks to warm up. I liked hot chocolate. The waiters were entertaining, and food was delicious. We shared sweet potato fries and for main course I enjoyed halibut with vegetables and beans. The dessert with lava cake, ice cream was huge and we could barely finish it!
Next morning, we had breakfast at Aleyska (again Reindeer sausage for me with savory waffle), and left for Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, surrounded by the breathtaking Chugach Mountain Range and Turnagain Arm Inlet. It is an easy ride from Anchorage and a non-profit sanctuary dedicated to preserving Alaska’s wildlife through conservation, education, research, and quality animal care. AWCC takes in orphaned and injured animals year-round and provides them with a forever home. The sanctuary maintains over 200 acres of spacious habitats for resident animals to feel at home displaying their natural wild behavior as education ambassadors for their species. We saw brown bears hibernating (in summer it would be fun to see them swimming!), moose strutting, wood bison roaming, muskox playing, fed the wolves! My advice to families instead of visiting zoo, to go to conservation center instead.
We came back to Anchorage and had lunch in an organic restaurant. Bison burger was delicious. Then we went to Westchester Lagoon for some outdoor activities. This beautiful outdoor spot is popular for wildlife viewing, outdoor activities, and scenic relaxation. It’s located just west of downtown and is part of the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. The lagoon freezes over in winter, creating a popular spot for ice skating, with maintained
rinks and fire pits. There were a lot of people enjoying winter weather. We had fun hiking guides with us who lit a bonfire, brought hot drinks and equipment. There were snowshoes, fat tire bikes and excersize bike where everyone biked and started blending your own cocoa. We had a lot of fun. A guide took us for one hour walk on a trail around the lagoon to see a dead finn whale.
After that, we went to 49th street Brewery for dinner, everyone enjoyed it. They had the most amazing pretzels with beer cheese sauce. I had a halibut and their own sodas.
After dinner we had an hour to change until we left for the Northern Light tour. I was tired but did not want to miss this activity. We were picked up by guides/owners of local company Alaska Phototreks, Carl and Ben. They showed us how to use our phone and had their own professional equipment with tripods and lights. The first location was on the bridge, and you could see lights with your phones but not with eye.
We progressed further to second and third location, on the lake and suddenly the night sky exploded with colors! It was amazing. Carl and Ben also took our photos. It as the best experience I had with seeing Northern lights and I seen them in Iceland and Norway. For those who were cold, they left the van running, and they served us hot drinks. They even had hand and feet warmers.
We came back at 2:45am. I highly recommend this company. They take people on multiple days photo safari and even go to Denali, so you can book a week of travel with their private guides/photographers designing a tour just for you.
February 7. We were able to sleep a bit longer and late morning we left for flightseeing. The company is called Rust Flying Service based in Lake Hood Seaplane base, the world’s busiest floatplane airport. Operating since 1963, Rust’s specializes in scenic floatplane tours, remote lodge transportation, and bear-viewing excursions, offering breathtaking aerial views of Alaska’s rugged landscapes. We had to wait until the fog dissipated and pilots got permission to fly. We had a 5 seater plane. The views from the air took my breath away. The pilot explained the route and what we are seeing. The land below was vast, wild and untouched with snow and glaciers, rivers, all white and blue colors and majestic Chugach mountains. It is hard to describe experiences out of this world! Alaska offers some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes on Earth.
After flightseeing we went for lunch to Japanese restaurants and continued for the Trolley tour in minivan (in summer they use a regular trolley), with driver/guide driving 25 miles through the city and surroundings. The guide was very entertaining with personal stories and great sense of humor.
He told us about Anchorage’s history, this immersive experience offered several stops to step out, explore and connect with the heart of Alaska and its people.
We saw the most famous Alaskan resident, the mighty moose (was not able to take the photo!), while taking in breathtaking sights like the towering 25-foot Snow Ella, historic neighborhoods, and panoramic views of snow-capped mountains. We toured the Ulu Factory for shopping. Each stop offered a unique glimpse into the rich culture and natural beauty that made Anchorage so special.
February 8, the conference started, and we enjoyed the next two days socializing and meeting with suppliers, some of them we already experienced. We had great educational sessions and I am ready now and looking forward to help my clients to experience Alaska, and make memories in the Last Frontier!
February 11, the last day, we had a choice of different activities to do. Some people went for dog sledding adventure, some took more flightseeing and Alaska Railroad trip. I chose to stay in Anchorage and food tour.
The food tour was entertaining, provided by a local driver/guide Chris passionate for food and his city. We had fried chicken in iconic Lucky Wishbone, a legendary diner in, famous for its fried chicken. Opened in 1955, it’s the oldest single-family-owned restaurant in Anchorage and a beloved local institution. We had their fried chicken and creamy milkshake.
We continued to Fire Island, a bakery shop where we sampled their sour dough products. They won James Beard Award. They were delicious and a healthy alternative to other breads.
Next stop was to sample ice cream at Motley Moo creamery, fun, family-owned café known for its delicious hand-crafted milkshakes, ice cream, and creative menu items.
Last stop was at the famous Bear Tooth Theatre pub is a unique and popular venue in Anchorage, combining a movie theater with a restaurant and pub. It’s known for offering a laid-back atmosphere where you can enjoy craft beer, pizzas, burgers, and other comfort foods while watching the latest films. We had cod tacos.
We also went to the forest chasing moose. We did not see it but the forest scenery was beautiful.
Back to the hotel, I ran to change and went to my last dinner. It was at the Crow Nest, located at 20th floor of Captain Cook, with unforgettable views of the city. I enjoyed sunset, splurged on Alaska King Crab legs and oysters. I finished with ice cream for dessert.
After dinner I dropped at farewell reception, to say goodbyes to my new friends – traveling mates and amazing Anchorage and Visit Alaska team to thank them for their hard work to make this trip a success.
I hope to return soon to Alaska, visit it in summer and cannot wait to work with my clients for their amazing trip to Last Frontier!
Final thoughts.
People visit Alaska for a lot of reasons! Some of the top ones include:
Stunning Natural Beauty, towering mountains like Denali, the highest peak in North America, Glaciers galore, from Mendenhall to Kenai Fjords, Lush forests, rugged coastlines, and vast tundras.
Incredible Wildlife: Bears fishing for salmon, Bald eagles soaring overhead, Whales, sea otters, and puffins along the coast
Northern Lights, Best seen in fall and winter, places like Fairbanks offer incredible aurora borealis views
Day Glacier Bay cruises give you front-row seats to Alaska’s coastline, fjords, and wildlife
World-Class Fishing: Salmon and halibut fishing in places like Homer and Kodiak
Outdoor Adventure: Hiking, dog sledding, kayaking, and even heli-skiing
Remote & Wild Experience: It’s one of the last truly wild places in the U.S., perfect for adventure seekers
Alaska in winter is a magical experience! Here are some of the best things to do:
See the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis)
Go Dog Sledding: Experience mushing with huskies!
Ice Fishing: Try for trout, salmon, or Arctic char. Many guided tours offer heated huts
Skiing & Snowboarding: Alyeska Resort (Girdwood) – Alaska’s top ski destination, Eaglecrest (Juneau) – Smaller but great for powder, Backcountry skiing – Heli-skiing in Valdez is legendary
Explore Denali National Park in Winter: Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and wildlife spotting, Fewer crowds = more peace and solitude
Drive the Dalton or Parks Highway: A true winter road trip adventure! See the snow-covered tundra and maybe even Arctic wildlife
See Winter Wildlife: Moose, caribou, and even wolves are more active in the snow.
Visit a Hot Spring Chena Hot Springs (Fairbanks) – Soak in warm waters under the Northern Lights
Explore Anchorage’s Winter Festivals:
- Fur Rendezvous (Feb-March) – Dog sled races, ice carving, and reindeer runs
- Iditarod Sled Dog Race (March) – The world-famous race starts in Anchorage
My suggestion would be to experience a magic of different seasons and destinations. And go by land. There are many comfortable ways to travel if you do not want to drive or hike or rough it.
Special thanks to Visit Anchorage enthusiastic and passionate team and Travel Alaska for such an amazing experience. #amazingalaskaexperience #TravelSMG
Copyrights 2025, Sophia’s Travel, EMCO Travel LLC