Archie MontroseCaution: This article may ignite wanderlust, spontaneous adventure plans, and a serious case of travel envy. Vancouver to Anchorage isn’t your average road trip; it’s a journey through breathtaking landscapes, must-see attractions, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Forget the ordinary tourist spots; this guide will lead you to the most memorable experiences, from stunning natural wonders to off-the-beaten-path treasures.
Consider this your ultimate roadmap for an unforgettable adventure from Vancouver to Anchorage.
- Best Time to Go
- Is the drive from Vancouver to Anchorage worth it?
- Can you drive from BC to Alaska?
- How to Get to Anchorage, Alaska
- Where to Stay in Anchorage, Alaska
- Where to Eat in Anchorage, Alaska
- Things to See on a Road Trip from Vancouver to Anchorage, Alaska
- Explore Jasper National Park's Lakeside Mountain vistas
- Catch the Northern Lights at Whitehorse
- Stop by Whistler
- Discover Gorgeous Kelowna
- Say Hi to the Animals at BC Wildlife Park
- Visit Canada's Oldest National Park: Banff National Park
- Marvel at the Turquoise Waters of Lake Louise Lake
- Stroll along Beaver Boardwalk
- Check out WWII Vehicles at Fort Nelson Heritage Museum
- Traverse the Pines at Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park
- Learn about Indigenous Art at George Johnson Museum
- Drop by the Oldest Museum in the Yukon
- Make a Detour at Haines
- Discover Kluane Lake
- Have Fun at Mukluk Land
- Apps to Download for a Trip to Anchorage, Alaska
Best Time to Go
The best time to visit Anchorage really depends on what you want to do and how you feel about cold weather. We find the city to be at its best in the summer (June to August).
During this time, the skies are clearer, the temperatures are mild, and you get those extended daylight hours to explore.
Is the drive from Vancouver to Anchorage worth it?
The drive from Vancouver to Anchorage, Alaska is definitely worth it. It covers 2,390 miles of uninterrupted wilderness, including breathtaking mountain ranges, glaciers, and wildlife.
The journey to Anchorage offers a unique opportunity to experience the vast and untouched beauty of Alaska firsthand.
Can you drive from BC to Alaska?
Yes, you can drive from BC to Alaska. If you’re driving to Alaska, you must pass through Canada. Your route will take you through British Columbia and the Yukon Territory.
The Alaska Highway, which is 2,224 km (1,382 miles) long, stretches from Dawson Creek, British Columbia, to Delta Junction, Alaska.
How to Get to Anchorage, Alaska
The quickest route from Vancouver to Anchorage, Alaska, leads through the Canadian Rockies, spanning parts of Alberta, Northern British Columbia, and the Yukon.
After crossing the Canada-US border into Alaska, you’ll journey through the Tanana Valley State Forest before reaching Anchorage.
Where to Stay in Anchorage, Alaska
Hilton Anchorage
Address: 500 W 3rd Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501, United
Phone: +1 907-272-7411
Pricing: $$
Centrally located in Anchorage, the Hilton Anchorage is a full-service hotel (and the tallest in the city). Once you enter the lobby, you’ll quickly notice the extensive collection of Alaskan Art!
Inside, there’s a fitness center, an indoor pool, and a steam room. And if you really want to get a taste of Alaska, come on down to their restaurant where they serve wild Alaskan salmon caponata and seared Alaskan halibut.
Marriott Anchorage Downtown
Address: 820 W 7th Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501, United State
Phone: +1 907-279-8000
Pricing: $$$
Located 5 minutes from Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, the Marriott Anchorage Downtown is walking distance to all the hotspots the city has to offer. From restaurants, shops, parks, and many more!
Plus, you can’t beat the view from the rooms and suites. The hotel overlooks the city and mountains, which you can fully appreciate from the oversized picture windows.
Sheraton Anchorage Hotel
Address: 401 E 6th Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501, United States
Phone:+1 907-276-8700
Pricing: $$$
Located downtown, the Sheraton Anchorage Hotel is the epitome of luxurious accommodation. Rooms here feature charming fireplaces that add a touch of elegance.
Heck, even entering this hotel feels fancy. The lobby has arrow quiver-like columns and a jade staircase! On top, there’s the ICE Spa where you can relax with the hottest view of downtown.
Alyeska Resort
Address: 1000 Arlberg Ave, Girdwood, AK 99587, United States
Phone: +1 800-880-3880
Pricing: $$
Opened in 1994, the Alyeska Resort is a chateau-style resort that’s jam packed with amenities. We’re serious, they’re endless. A saltwater pool, whirlpool, fitness center, and even a Nordic spa!
If you stay here, you’ll have easy access to open spaces, nature trails, and walking paths. As for activities, there’s downhill skiing, mountain biking, and a scenic tram ride!
The Lakefront Anchorage
Address: 4800 Spenard Rd, Anchorage, AK 99517, United States
Phone: +1 907-243-2300
Pricing: $
The Lakefront Anchorage is the only hotel in Anchorage located on a lake. Yes, that’s right! It sits on the shore of Lake Spenard next to Lake Hood.
Inside, the lobby is uniquely decorated with polar, kodiak, and black bears for that Alaskan feel. Amenities include a fitness center, business center, laundry facilities, and a restaurant.
Where to Eat in Anchorage, Alaska
49th State Brewing – Anchorage
Address: 717 W 3rd Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501, United States
Phone: +1 907-277-7727
Pricing: $$
The main thing here at 49th State is definitely the beer. It’s quite impressive that the lager here is brewed with pure glacial water that features bready malt notes and hops.
But it’s not just the beer. The food here is just as good. Want our advice? Get the calamari. The batter has a spicy kick enhanced nicely by the jalapeños.
F Street Station
Address: 325 F St, Anchorage, AK 99501, United States
Phone: +1 907-272-5196
Pricing: $
F Street Station serves seafood and draft beer and is Anchorage’s historic eatery, offering authentic Alaskan cuisine and a unique connection to 49th State Brewing Company.
They have the best beer-battered halibut and shrimp (or fish and chips). The crab sandwich is good but has a bit too much mayo.
Orso
Address: 737 W 5th Ave #110, Anchorage, AK 99501, United States
Phone: +1 907-222-3232
Pricing: $$$
ORSO is an Italian-infused Alaskan cuisine restaurant that serves local seafood and grilled meats, along with over 20 wines by the glass.
The seafood gemelli and petite filet mignon meals were incredible, packed with flavor, and the seafood was perfectly cooked. The salad with couscous, pears, and walnuts was also delicious.
Humpy’s Great Alaskan Alehouse
Address: 610 W 6th Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501, United States
Phone: +1 907-276-2337
Pricing: $$
Humpy’s is a casual, neighborhood alehouse in downtown Anchorage offering fresh food, live local music, and a fantastic selection of draft craft beer.
The fried halibut was excellent with a spicy kick to the batter, and dipping it in their tartar sauce was perfect. Plus, the malt vinegar for the fries was a bonus!
Simon & Seafort’s Saloon & Grill
Address: 420 L St, Anchorage, AK 99501, United States
Phone: +1 907-274-3502
Pricing: $$
Since 1978, Simon & Seafort’s Saloon & Grill has been serving some of the best gourmet seafood and steaks. Known by locals as “Simon’s,” this landmark offers panoramic views of Cook Inlet, Mount Susitna, and the Alaska Range.
Their happy hour is fantastic, with prices ranging from $4 to $10, and the food is phenomenal. The prime rib tacos literally melt in your mouth!
Things to See on a Road Trip from Vancouver to Anchorage, Alaska
Explore Jasper National Park’s Lakeside Mountain vistas
Address: Jasper, AB T0E 1E0, Canada
Phone: +1 780-852-6176
Jasper National Park, the largest in the Canadian Rockies and the world’s second-largest dark sky preserve, is renowned for its vast wilderness, majestic peaks, and abundant wildlife.
It’s a paradise for nature lovers, offering stunning scenery and endless outdoor activities. Whether you want to hike, bike, ski, kayak, or simply relax, Jasper National Park has something for everyone.
Catch the Northern Lights at Whitehorse
Address: Whitehorse, YT, Y1A 1C2, Canada
Phone: 867-668-5555
Whitehorse, the capital of Yukon, is situated just below Miles Canyon. Here, the best time to view the aurora is from late August to mid-April.
During the summer, the night skies aren’t dark enough to see the aurora borealis, even when solar wind activity is strong. Apart from that, there are also optional winter activities here like dog mushing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, ice fishing, and many more.
Stop by Whistler
Address: Whistler, BC
Phone: 1-800-766-044
Whistler is famous for its skiing and snowboarding in the winter, and mountain biking and hiking in the summer. This legendary resort town is just a two-hour drive from Vancouver, nestled in the Coast Mountains of British Columbia.
Must-visit spots include Whistler Blackcomb, Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre, Brandywine Falls, and the village itself, which is full of interesting shops and eateries.
Discover Gorgeous Kelowna
Address: Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
Phone: 250-469-8500
Kelowna, located on Okanagan Lake, is renowned for its lakes, forests, vineyards, and beaches. Its downtown area features the waterfront City Park and a lakeside cultural district.
With more than 20 local vineyards, visitors can enjoy wine tours and tastings. Some must-visit places include Okanagan Lake, Kelowna City Park, Knox Mountain Park, Myra Canyon Adventure Park, and many more!
Say Hi to the Animals at BC Wildlife Park
Please embed: https://www.instagram.com/bcwildlifepark/?hl=en
Address: 9077 Dallas Dr, Kamloops, BC V2C 6V1, Canada
Phone: 250-573-3242
The BC Wildlife Park is a large park with nearly 200 animals and 65 different species under its permanent care. Its natural setting makes it beautiful and appealing, with a diverse range of animals in a wildlife sanctuary.
Anyone visiting Kamloops should definitely check out this place, which offers ample parking onsite. From bears and wolves to eagles and foxes, the park showcases a variety of wildlife. Plus, there’s a playground for children to enjoy.
Visit Canada’s Oldest National Park: Banff National Park
Address: Improvement District No. 9, AB T0L, Canada
Phone: +1 403-762-1550
The natural beauty of Banff’s surrounding lakes and mountains led to its designation as Canada’s first National Park and the world’s third national park refuge, forming part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks UNESCO World Heritage Site.
From the majestic peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the crystal-clear lakes and dense forests, every corner exudes awe-inspiring scenery. Outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in hiking, skiing, wildlife spotting, and more.
Marvel at the Turquoise Waters of Lake Louise Lake
Address: Louise, Alberta, Canada
Nestled in the heart of Banff National Park, you’ll find Canada’s breathtaking natural gem, Lake Louise. This adventurer’s paradise boasts Rocky Mountain peaks, turquoise glacial lakes, and rivers teeming with outdoor activities.
Start your exploration with a lakeshore trail offering stunning views of the water, where you can admire a towering waterfall and watch fearless rock climbers in action.
At the far end of the lake, glacial creeks converge, adding to the scenic beauty. During colder months, Lake Louise transforms into a magical frozen wonderland, inviting further exploration.
Stroll along Beaver Boardwalk
Media credit: eppell
Address: 408 Collinge Rd, Hinton, AB T7V 1L1, Canada
Phone: +1 780-865-6066
Beaver Boardwalk, the world’s longest freshwater boardwalk, makes for a fantastic family outing showcasing the local wetland system around Maxwell Lake.
Even on rainy days, the boardwalks make walking easy, allowing you to observe numerous birds and small animals in the area.
You’ll get to learn about beaver habitat, damming, daily life, and other wildlife, along with valuable information about the surrounding flora including coniferous and deciduous trees.
Check out WWII Vehicles at Fort Nelson Heritage Museum
Address: 5553 Alaska Hwy, Fort Nelson, BC V0C 1R0, Canada
Phone: +1 250-774-3536
Fort Nelson Heritage Museum is located just West of the historic Mile 300 milepost on the World Famous Alaska Highway.
With a theme centered around “Transportation,” you’re treated to the most diverse collection of antique cars, trucks, license plates, and signs in northern BC.
Here, you’ll find out why Fort Nelson is dubbed “the gateway to the Northern Rockies,” and the story behind the construction of the Alcan Highway. Other displays showcase Fort Nelson’s unique role in the early days of exploration, mining, and hunting.
Traverse the Pines at Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park
Address: 497 Alaska Hwy, Liard River, BC V0C 1Z0, Canada
Phone: +1 250-776-7000
Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park is an oasis for Alaska Highway travelers. The hot springs are truly amazing, offering a rejuvenating experience.
To reach them, stroll down the boardwalk, surrounded by beautiful landscapes and stunning scenery. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone passing through.
Learn about Indigenous Art at George Johnson Museum
Address: West of Nisutlin Bay Bridge, KM 1244 of the Alaska Highway 800 meters, 0.5, Teslin, YT Y0A 1B0, Canada
Phone: +1 867-390-2550
Named after George Johnson, a legendary trapper, photographer, and entrepreneur, the museum showcases his legacy, including the first car brought to Teslin, a 1928 Chevrolet on display.
You’ll find photographs, relics, beadwork, clothing, and crafts that offer insights into traditional Tlingit culture and lifestyles, from hunting and fishing to trading and ceremonial events.
Drop by the Oldest Museum in the Yukon
Address: 1124 Front St, Whitehorse, YT Y1A 1A4, Canada
Phone: +1 867-667-2709
Established in 1950 by the Yukon Historical Society and opened in 1952, the MacBride Museum of Yukon History holds the distinction of being the oldest museum in the Yukon.
With a collection of 40,000 objects, its galleries showcase stories from Yukon First Nations, the natural world, the Klondike Gold Rush, and beyond.
In addition to its historical exhibits, the museum boasts incredible art pieces, including the renowned Ted Harrison collection and the mesmerizing Northern Lights icicles.
Make a Detour at Haines
Address: Haines, Alaska
Phone: 907-766-6400
Haines is renowned for its diverse wildlife population, offering opportunities to observe eagles, bears, marine life, and various bird species in their natural habitats.
Nestled in a charming, small, and non-touristy town, Haines offers a unique experience. The ferry ride to reach it is not only enjoyable but also incredibly scenic.
Once there, you can rent a car and explore at your own pace, driving along the river road and immersing yourself in the beauty of the surroundings.
Discover Kluane Lake
Address: Kluane Lake, Yukon, Canada
Phone: +1 867-841-4561
Kluane Lake, the largest lake in the Yukon, is an ideal stop for travelers. With multiple lookout points and rest areas along the lakeshore, it offers ample opportunities to take in its beauty.
Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, Kluane Lake is truly stunning and breathtaking, earning its reputation as a gem of the Far North. If you’re seeking postcard-worthy scenery, look no further than this picturesque blue lake.
Have Fun at Mukluk Land
Media credit: tim_hughes1
Address: AK-2, Tok, AK 99780, United States
Phone: +1 907-883-2571
Mukluk Land offers a unique blend of kids’ amusement park fun and historical displays, making it a fascinating destination where you can easily spend several hours.
From skeeball and old vehicles from the construction of the Alaska Highway to peculiar attractions like a room filled with dolls viewed through a small hole in a wall and Santa’s rocket ship, there’s no shortage of interesting things to discover here.
Apps to Download for a Trip to Anchorage, Alaska
The Alaska App: an ultimate discovery app that shows you the best attractions in Alaska.
Roadtrippers: turn-by-turn navigation with pre-made travel guides in Canada. Get alerts for unique attractions, local diners, scenic points, and hotels along your route.
Maps.me: detailed, offline maps with turn-by-turn navigation for driving, hiking, or biking to a selected location.
GasBuddy: locates gas stations near you and shows you prices, sends you price hike alerts and the app notifies you about deals.
