$240+ Cheap flights to Anchorage, AK

City overview

Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska and is the travel, financial and commercial hub of the state. Despite what many travelers may believe, Anchorage is much more than snow, igloos and Eskimos. Flights to Anchorage are packed full of travelers eager to hit the Alaskan trails and ease down the rivers that make Anchorage one of the most desired destinations in the U.S. Before you book Anchorage flights and accommodations, consider your travel interests and plan an Anchorage vacation at the right time of year — Anchorage has extreme peak and off-peak travel seasons.

Anchorage is a city in full swing, a far cry from the common misconception of bare wilderness. Most Alaska travelers find flights to Anchorage as their starting point to an overall Alaska vacation. Plan to stay a few days in Anchorage to enjoy the city escape before heading out to the wilderness, just a short drive from the outskirts of Anchorage.

Anchorage isn’t so different than most other U.S. cities — there are great restaurants, plenty of nightlife options and a great cultural landscape. Take some time read up on Alaska during your flight to Anchorage. There are plenty of day trips from the Anchorage area that appeal to any visitor. Travelers beware: moose and bears are common in the Alaskan wilderness!

From May through September, the Anchorage Saturday market is in full swing. Take a walk through Anchorage’s Saturday market and stop by the hundreds of stalls and booths that sell everything from now boasts 350 stalls selling everything from Eskimo arts and crafts to plants, food and clothes. Local musicians and entertainers make their way through the crowds to keep the mood light and fun.

Also, be sure to witness the famous Iditarod Dog Sled Race, which takes place every March in Anchorage. The race, which began in 1925, is 1,131 miles long.

Getting around Anchorage, AK

Anchorage’s public bus system offers a convenient way to get around town. Take the bus to the downtown area after your Anchorage flight lands and get an immediate tour. If your travel plans include a trip around the edge of Anchorage, it’s a good idea to rent a car. Save money by booking a package deal when you buy your plane ticket. Make sure you reserve early, though – especially for travel in June, July and August. These months are Alaska’s peak travel time and rental cars can get snatched up quickly.       

Getting from the Airport to the City

Ted Stevens Anchorage Airport is about 4 nautical miles southwest of the city center. Travelers can reach Anchorage via public bus, and many Anchorage hotels also offer a shuttle service. Taxis and car rentals are also available.

Anchorage, AK airport overview

Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) is just 4.5 miles (7.4km) from downtown Anchorage in Alaska. It is an important airport in Alaska and was named after the local US Senator Ted Stevens, who served in the Senate from 1968 until 2009.

Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport has two terminals: the South Terminal handles domestic traffic and the North Terminal is used for international flights. The terminals have a selection of shops, restaurants and facilities making for a pleasant airport experience. There’s even a freezer storage facility at the airport.

The airport is a hub for Alaska Airlines, PenAir, as well as two cargo carriers. Flights to Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport are easy to book on several North American carriers and the airport has direct flight connections to many major cities in the United States.