Anchorage Dining, Bars and Pubs

Since the 1970s, Anchorage has had an-oil driven economy, although its fastest growing industry nowadays is tourism. The number of visitors has doubled over the past 10 years, and more than 1.2 million people now travel to, or through, Anchorage each year. Wherever you choose to stay in this young city, you will find friendly people, room to roam through numerous parks and trails, and breathtaking views of wild mountain ranges.

Downtown

Any of Anchorage's downtown hotels will put you within walking distance of the district's main attractions. Among the classier hotel choices is the Captain Cook Hotel (The), built in 1964 by former Alaska governor Walter Hickel. One of only 100 Preferred Hotels and Resorts Worldwide, it is home to the Crow's Nest (Hotel Captain Cook) restaurant, a mecca for sophisticated diners. Another first-class option is the Hilton Anchorage, which caters to businesspeople by way of its many office amenities; the hotel also offers luxurious suites and has an excellent on-site restaurant, Top of the World. Or try the Anchorage Marriott, which opened in 2000 and has a business center, a lovely cocktail lounge and rooms with unusually large picture windows.

Midtown

Among the many options in the midtown area is the Hampton Inn, where breakfast, a full fitness center and a Jacuzzi are all included in the room rates. Another fine choice is the Residence Inn Marriott, one of four Marriott-affiliated hotels in Anchorage. This establishment was built in 1999 and has rooms with separate living and sleeping areas, an onsite indoor pool, a spa, a fitness center and a full business center. Aladdin's Authentic Cuisine from the Mediterranean restaurant, with its casual atmosphere and wine bar, is located within blocks of the hotel.

Airport Area/Spenard

If you choose to be near the airport, the deluxe Millennium Alaskan Hotel Anchorage is a good choice, offering many first-class amenities and resting on the shores of Lake Spenard. This is a great place to relax and settle down from the wear and tear of traveling. On the premises, you will find both the Flying Machine restaurant and the Fancy Moose Lounge as well as fitness equipment, a pool and a spa. The Courtyard by Marriott and the Holiday Inn Express each focus on providing business travelers with excellent service and convenience. The Holiday Inn Express has an entire floor devoted to use as a business center. Both have fitness centers available and offer shuttle service to the airport. For a completely different feel, stay at the Alaska Wilderness Plantation B&B; just five minutes from the airport, it has only eight suites, all of which are equipped with fireplaces and Jacuzzis.