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Anchorage - courtesy Alaskan Dude - CC-BY

Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska and has more than 40 percent of the state’s population.

The city grew from being chosen as the site, in 1914, of a railroad construction port for the Alaska Railroad and incorporated on November 23, 1920. On March 27, 1964, Anchorage was hit by the magnitude 9.2 Good Friday Earthquake, which killed 115 Alaskans.  Alaska is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire and several volcanoes are in the Anchorage region.

The developed part of Anchorage is fairly spread out and not very easily walked, with the exception of the compact downtown area. The historic core of the city is home to most of the tourist activities, gift stores, hotels, and the railroad depot. Anchorage has an extremely well-developed system of bike trails, with over 200 miles of developed trails winding their way throughout the city’s parks and green belts. Just try not to ride behind a moose.

Don’t miss the Alaska Native Heritage Center, much more than just a static museum of glass display cases. Native Alaskan cultures are all represented and a large stage holds native dance performances.  And there is a good selection of other museums in the city ranging from fine arts to native artifacts.

Shopping is about the same as any other large city in America with strip malls and a myriad of touristy gift stores downtown. Quality and selection varies. A large chain department store in Anchorage is just like a large chain department store anywhere else.

Diners can find most anything from haute cuisine to burgers in Anchorage. The city’s ethnic diversity lends vibrant flavor to the restaurant scene. And, of course, there are specialty restaurants featuring the delicious products of the Far North.

The Anchorage climate is sub-Arctic with short cool summers. Daytime summer temperatures average range is from approximately 55 to 78 degrees Fahrenheit (13 to 26 C).  Average daytime winter temperatures are about 5 to 30 degrees F (−15 to −1 C).

Anchorage is served by Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport.  Public transportation is bus and taxi.

Anchorage is considered a very safe city for its size. However, a constant problem is car break-ins at State Park parking lots. Do not leave valuables inside your vehicle. Also, the trails close to and around the University aren’t safe when it is dark.

Anchorage population is 279,243 (2008).

The international calling code for the United States is 1.

907 is the area code for Anchorage.

For more information about Anchorage