Things to do in Anchorage in June
June in Anchorage is bustin’ out all over with activities: Here are our top recommendations
The Copper Whale Inn is located in the heart of downtown Anchorage and within perfect striking distance of several summertime special events and activities. We love welcoming Alaska visitors to our community, and hope that while you’re here, you’ll take advantage of the unique ways we residents celebrate life under the Midnight Sun.
The Alaska Baseball League
Love baseball? The Alaska Baseball League is a thing, and all summer long, games are held in both Anchorage and the community of Chugiak, just outside town. Whether you root for the Anchorage Bucs, Glacier Pilots, or Chugiak-Eagle River Chinooks, you’re sure to have a great time. The baseball is top notch, the entertainment is fun, and anyone of any age is welcome! Find the schedule here.
The annual downtown Summer Solstice Festival
The annual downtown Summer Solstice Festival takes place on Saturday, June 21, from 12 to 5 p.m. between D and G Streets in downtown Anchorage. This popular event is a daylong celebration featuring a variety of entertainment, including four bands, one DJ, and multiple dance performances on three different stages! The best part? It’s free to attend!
Slam’n’ Salm’n Derby
Between now and June 25, anglers can vie for the biggest fish in the annual Slam’n’ Salm’n Derby, held at Ship Creek, just a short walk from the Copper Whale Inn. Contestants work to catch the largest king salmon from the chilly waters of Ship Creek, with plenty of viewing space available for those not fishing. Didn’t bring your gear? No problem! The Bait Shack, located along the shoreline of Ship Creek, can kit you out and issue a fishing license as well (a MUST).
Anchorage Price Parade
Copper Whale Inn is proud to support our community and highly recommends attending the Anchorage Pride Parade, which is happening this year on June 28. Join us in downtown Anchorage for a vibrant celebration of love, acceptance, and unity within the local LGBTQ+ community. This parade is far more than a showing of solidarity; rather, it’s a testament to our community’s resilience and diversity, and is a reminder of the progress made in Alaska and around the nation.
Anchorage Museum
The Anchorage Museum at 625 C Street hosts its famous “Lunch on the Lawn” each Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Join in the fun, with food trucks, music, and a ton of family-friendly games and activities, for anyone! The event is free, but if rain prevents outdoor activities, the festivities move indoors, and museum admission will apply. But hey, it’s a chance to see the amazing exhibits throughout this wonderful facility, to make a plan to go indoors, regardless!
Alaska Zoo
Want to see Alaska’s iconic animals up close? The Alaska Zoo offers a free shuttle throughout the summer months, departing from downtown Anchorage. It’s a great way to visit the zoo and see a bit of Anchorage as you whiz to the southeast section of town to this unique facility that works to educate visitors about animals and birds of the circumpolar north. Tip: Take the first shuttle of the day to see the animals at their most active.
Alaska Native Heritage Center
The Alaska Native Heritage Center, found at the east end of Anchorage, also offers a free shuttle to visitors during the summer months. ANHC is the largest indigenous learning center in Alaska, with indoor and outdoor exhibits and learning opportunities. During the summer, they also have a full schedule of drumming, dancing, and storytelling throughout the day. Be sure to walk the village sites and talk with the students at each one, who describe each Alaska tribal group in wonderful detail.
Anchorage’s parks and trails
Anchorage’s park and trail system is an extensive network spanning 250+ miles of paved and non-paved pathways. We talked about several options within walking distance from the Copper Whale in late April’s post, but beyond downtown lies an even wider range of options, all within city limits! Some staff favorites include: Goose Lake trails, Campbell Creek Trail, Campbell Creek Estuary Area, and Ruth Arcand Park.
Looking for even more? The Copper Whale Inn website has a long list of great options for exploring Anchorage, including through our sister company, Salmon Berry Tours! Take a look, and let our staff know if we can help make arrangements, provide directions, or give our favorite recommendations.