Anchorage offers more than just stunning mountain views and wild landscapes; it’s also a fantastic place to explore Alaska’s thriving craft beer scene and enjoy wildlife up close. With so many options, choosing the right drinking tour can seem overwhelming. Luckily, these carefully curated experiences combine wildlife adventures, scenic drives, and beer tastings, giving you a genuine taste of Alaska’s outdoors and local culture. Whether you prefer a small-group tour with an intimate vibe or a scenic drive filled with wildlife sightings, Anchorage’s drinking tours deliver something memorable for every visitor.
One thing these tours have in common: they provide a chance to relax, learn, and sample the best of Alaska’s natural beauty and brewing talent. From encounters with Alaska’s Big Five at conservation centers to local brews paired with hearty lunches, each offers a unique way to enjoy the state’s rugged charm. Ready to explore? Here’s our list of the best drinking tours in Anchorage.
1. Wildlife Center with Lunch & Local Beer Sampling – Winter&Summer
At number one, this tour combines wildlife observation, scenic driving, and craft beer tasting into one comprehensive experience. Starting from Anchorage, the trip takes you along Turnagain Arm, famous for its spectacular scenery and tidal bore. The journey includes a visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where you’ll see bears, moose, caribou, and other Alaskan animals in natural habitats. This 1.5-hour visit emphasizes conservation and offers plenty of photo opportunities under expert guidance, making it ideal for animal lovers.
After exploring wildlife, the tour visits the Girdwood Brewing Company, located in the charming town of Girdwood. Here, you’ll sample locally crafted beers, from ales to stouts, crafted with ingredients sourced from Alaska. The tour also includes a hearty, home-cooked lunch—a much-appreciated break after all those wildlife sightings. The small group size (max 14) ensures personalized attention, and reviews frequently mention how knowledgeable guides enrich the experience with local stories and insights.
This tour ranks highly because it offers a balanced mix of wildlife, scenery, and local flavor, all in a manageable 4-5 hour window. Perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Alaska’s outdoors and beer scene without rushing. The value for money is excellent considering the wildlife encounters, lunch, and beer tastings included. Ideal for those interested in wildlife or beer, and who appreciate a relaxed pace with plenty of photo stops.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, small-group tour blending wildlife, scenic drive, and craft beer—especially suited for wildlife enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.
2. Wildlife Center with Lunch & Local Beer Sampling
On our second spot, this tour offers an equally compelling wildlife and scenic experience, but with slightly different logistics. Starting from the William A. Egan Civic & Convention Center, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive along the Seward Highway, renowned for its breathtaking views of mountains and glaciers. The highlight remains a visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where you’ll have 1.5 hours to observe bears, musk-ox, wolves, and other native animals in spacious habitats.
Later, the tour stops at the Girdwood Brewing Company for a beer tasting and lunch, lasting about 45 minutes. This part of the tour is designed for those who want a shorter, more relaxed experience while still enjoying wildlife and local brews. The scenic drive itself is one of the main draws, giving you a chance to see some of Alaska’s most picturesque landscapes in a comfortable setting.
Rated highly for Tom, the guide’s knowledge and helpfulness, this tour provides excellent value by combining wildlife viewing, scenic vistas, and craft beer all within 4.5 hours. It’s a great option for travelers who want a shorter, more flexible schedule without sacrificing the core experiences.
Bottom Line: A scenic, wildlife-focused tour with a convenient schedule—great for travelers short on time who still want a full Alaskan experience.
How to Choose the Best Drinking Tour in Anchorage
When selecting between these options, consider your priorities: do you want a longer, more in-depth wildlife encounter with a small group? The first tour (Wildlife Center with Lunch & Local Beer Sampling – Winter&Summer) might be ideal. For those who prefer a shorter, scenic drive with wildlife viewing and a focus on local brews, the second (Wildlife Center with Lunch & Local Beer Sampling) offers a flexible, relaxed experience.
Budget-wise, both tours are priced at $195, but the first includes a longer wildlife exploration and a more extensive tour guide experience, making it slightly more comprehensive. Think about your interests: wildlife lovers will appreciate the immersive wildlife center visits, while scenic drive fans can enjoy the Seward Highway route.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak summer months when these tours are most popular. Check for availability and consider your physical comfort; both tours involve some walking but are generally suitable for most travelers.
Final Thoughts
Anchorage’s drinking tours blend Alaska’s breathtaking scenery with local culture and wildlife. If you’re looking for an all-in-one adventure with a focus on animals and craft beer, the Wildlife Center with Lunch & Local Beer Sampling – Winter&Summer is an excellent choice. If you prefer a scenic drive with wildlife sightings and a shorter schedule, then the Wildlife Center with Lunch & Local Beer Sampling offers great value.
For travelers seeking a deeper connection with Alaska’s wilderness and local brews, booking one of these tours in advance is wise. They’re ideal for wildlife fans, beer enthusiasts, and anyone wanting to combine outdoor beauty with authentic local flavors. No matter which you choose, you’ll return home with stories of wildlife sightings, stunning vistas, and maybe even some new favorite beers.