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Ever felt the itch for a new adventure? Like Michelle Shocked sings in her iconic song “Anchorage,” sometimes the skyline beckons us to new horizons. Perhaps Anchorage, Alaska, with its majestic mountains and vibrant energy, is the answer! Intrigued, but unsure? Let’s chat, like old friends, about why Anchorage should be your next travel destination.
Ever since I first heard Michelle Shocked’s “Anchorage,” I’ve been fascinated by the idea of this Alaskan city. “Anchorage” is the first single by American folk singer Michelle Shocked. The song is about writing a letter to a friend who moved from Texas to Alaska. The song captures a certain mood, a feeling I wanted to experience firsthand. So, I decided to pack my bags and head north to explore the real Anchorage.
This Alaskan city has a short but interesting history.
It started as a tent city in 1915 near the mouth of Ship Creek. The tent city quickly grew as a planned townsite was established on the bluff to the south. As for its early years, Anchorage was mainly a company town for the Alaska Railroad, which played a crucial role in its development.
Let me tell you more! The tent city emerged because of the construction of the Alaska Railroad, which aimed to connect Seward to Fairbanks. Workers and their families set up tents and makeshift shelters, forming a bustling community. The government soon recognized the need for a more organized settlement, leading to the platting of Anchorage as a townsite.
The town’s layout was carefully planned, and lots were auctioned off to settlers. This organized growth helped Anchorage develop a solid infrastructure from the beginning. As the railroad’s headquarters, Anchorage became a hub for transportation and commerce, attracting more residents and businesses over time.
Today, you can still visit Ship Creek, now a popular spot for fishing and walking, and see the historic district that recalls Anchorage’s early days. The Alaska Railroad continues to be a significant part of Anchorage, offering scenic train rides through the stunning Alaskan landscape.
Yes, it gets cold, but that’s part of the charm! Winter brings the stunning Aurora Borealis. Imagine the night sky lighting up with magical, colorful displays. It’s like nature’s own fireworks show.
And when summer hits, the days are incredibly long and sunny. Perfect for hiking, biking, or just soaking up the Alaskan wilderness. You may feel you’re traveling to the end of the earth, but the city is buzzing all year round.
Travel Tip(s)
Let’s face it, travel can be expensive. But there are plenty of affordable magic.
Anchorage is a treasure trove for curious adventurers. It has so much to explore!
Travel Tip(s)
Hop on the Anchorage Trolley for a fun 1-hour tour of the city’s historic and scenic spots. You’ll travel 24 km (15 miles) with Alaskan guides who share family tales and stories from the past. Plus, you’ll get a coupon book for downtown restaurants and stores to enjoy after the tour.
Travel Tip(s)
Keep your devices juiced up, so you can capture every unforgettable moment of your journey!
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The annual Beer Festival is over two days in October. With plenty of international food and the Folk fair, this is an event not to miss! The venue is usually at the William A. Egan Civic & Convention Center.
Then in July at the Lakefront, you have the Anchorage Beer & Bacon Festival. This is when you get to enjoy the best local beers and bacon-inspired dishes. There’s fabulous live music and even a bacon-eating contest!
Besides the beer, try the wild smoked salmon and reindeer sausage.
Whether Anchorage aligns with the imagery Shocked crafted is for you to decide. One thing’s for sure – this unique Alaskan city is a city of contrasts – bustling yet surrounded by breathtaking nature. From the buzz of downtown to the serenity of nearby glaciers, it’s a place that caters to a variety of interests. So, if you’re looking for an adventure that blends cityscapes with wild Alaska, Anchorage might just be your next travel destination.
Did you know?
Covering 663,268 square miles (1,717,856 km²), Alaska is the largest state in the U.S. by far. In fact, Alaska is more than twice the size of Texas, the second-largest state. It’s even bigger than Texas, California, and Montana combined.
I took the time out to write to my old friend
I walked across that burning bridge
Mailed my letter off to Dallas but
Her reply came from Anchorage, Alaska
She said, “Hey girl it’s about time you wrote
It’s been over two years now my old friend
Take me back to the days of the foreign telegrams”
And the all night rock n’ rollin’, hey Chel we was wild then
Hey Chel you know it’s kinda funny
Texa’s always seems so big
But you know you’re in the largest State in the Union
When you’re anchored down in Anchorage
Hey girl I think the last time I saw you
Was on me and Leroys wedding day
What was the name of that love song you played
I forgot how it goes, I don’t recall how it goes
Anchorage, Anchored down in Anchorage
Leroy got a better job so we moved
Kevin lost a tooth, he’s starting school
I got a brand new eight month old baby girl
I sound like a housewife, I think I’m a housewife
Hey girl what’s it like to be in New York
New York City imagine that
Tell me
What’s it like to be a skateboard punk rocker
Leroy says, “Send a picture” Leroy says, “Hello”
Leroy says, “Keep on rocking girl, yeah keep on rocking”
Planning a trip revolves around key elements like flights, accommodation, activities, and cuisine. They form the foundation of a successful travel experience.
It’s like building a well-rounded story, and these pillars indeed play a crucial role.
FLIGHTS determine your JOURNEY
WHERE YOU STAY influences your COMFORT
WHAT YOU DO shape your MEMORIES
WHAT YOU CONSUME adds flavor to your ADVENTURE
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