Anchorage is a fantastic base for exploring Alaska’s wild side, but it’s also a city that offers some memorable lunch experiences. Whether you’re looking to enjoy fresh seafood with a view, learn about local wildlife, or taste craft beers and hearty Alaskan cuisine, the options are diverse and tailored to different interests. The city’s proximity to glaciers, fjords, and wilderness means you can combine a satisfying meal with an authentic outdoor adventure or wildlife encounter. In this guide, we look at six top lunch experiences—ranging from boat cruises to wildlife centers and glacier hikes—that will enrich your visit and satisfy your appetite for adventure and local flavor.
Quick Overview: We’ve rounded up a variety of tours to suit different tastes and schedules. From the Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise with Lunch exploring tidewater glaciers and wildlife, to the Wildlife Center with Lunch & Local Beer Sampling offering an up-close look at Alaska’s iconic animals, there’s something for all. Other options include glacier cruises, winter glacier hikes, and scenic wildlife drives that combine wildlife viewing with local food and drink. Read on to find the perfect lunch adventure for your Alaska trip.
1. From Seward: Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise with Lunch
At number one, the Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise with Lunch offers an in-depth look at Alaska’s stunning marine environment. This 7.5-hour voyage departs from Seward and takes you on a high-speed catamaran through waters teeming with wildlife. The cruise is renowned for its close encounters with tidewater glaciers that calve ice into the sea and for the chance to see orcas, humpbacks, sea otters, and sea lions. The knowledgeable captain shares insights about the park’s geology and ecology, making it both educational and awe-inspiring. The highlight is two active tidewater glaciers, where calving sounds and splashing ice provide spectacular photo opportunities.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of spectacular scenery, wildlife sightings, and a well-organized onboard lunch. Guests consistently praise the crew for their friendliness and expertise, with reviews noting the close-up glacier views and wildlife sightings, like orcas and mountain goats. It’s a longer, more immersive experience suited for those who want a full day on the water. While the cost is around $272 per person, many feel the experience’s quality and the chance to see glaciers calve up close make it worth the expense.
Bottom Line: If you’re eager to see Alaska’s glaciers and wildlife from a stable platform while enjoying a good onboard meal, this cruise offers exceptional value.
2. Wildlife Center with Lunch & Local Beer Sampling – Winter & Summer
Coming in at number two, the Wildlife Center with Lunch & Local Beer Sampling is an excellent choice for those interested in Alaska’s iconic animals and local culture. This small-group tour from Anchorage combines wildlife viewing at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center with a scenic drive along Turnagain Arm and a visit to a local brewery in Girdwood.
The tour includes a home-cooked lunch and offers the chance to photograph bears, moose, caribou, and more in natural-like habitats, all with an expert guide sharing fascinating insights. The drive itself is scenic, with stunning views of the Chugach Mountains. The brewery visit caps off the day with beer tastings, giving a taste of local craft brewing culture. Guests consistently comment on the intimate size of the tour, which makes for a personalized experience, and praise the guide for their thorough knowledge of the region.
Priced at $195, this tour offers great value for travelers who want a mix of wildlife, scenery, and local flavor without spending a full day on the water. The reviews highlight how well-organized and informative the trip is, with many noting the close-up encounters with Alaskan wildlife as a highlight.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and those curious about local brew culture, offering a relaxed pace with plenty of memorable moments.
3. From Whittier: Glacier Quest Cruise with Onboard Lunch
At number three, the Glacier Quest Cruise from Whittier transports you into the heart of Prince William Sound’s icy wilderness. This 4 to 11-hour cruise explores fjords, waterfalls, and glaciers, with the longer options offering a full day of viewing. The cruise is notable for its close-up glacier sights and waterfalls in Blackstone Bay, making it a favorite among glacier lovers.
The ship features live onboard commentary, enhancing your understanding of the area’s geology and wildlife. You’ll also have opportunities to photograph sea otters, harbor seals, and bald eagles. A highlight is the onboard lunch, where you can enjoy a delicious salmon chowder while taking in panoramic vistas. Many reviews mention the breathtaking scenery and the crew’s attentiveness, making this a comfortable yet awe-inspiring outing.
This tour is perfect for those who want a flexible schedule and are eager to see calving glaciers and wildlife in a pristine environment. The $206 price reflects the value of the scenery, wildlife sightings, and the included meal.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded choice for glacier enthusiasts who want to combine wildlife viewing with a relaxing cruise and onboard meal.
4. From Anchorage: Matanuska Glacier Winter Tour with Lunch
Number four on our list is the Matanuska Glacier Winter Tour with Lunch. This 8-hour guided trip introduces you to one of Alaska’s most accessible glaciers in winter, with several highlights. The tour includes hotel pickup, so you don’t need to worry about logistics, and features stops at spectacular ice formations and glacial features.
During the trek, you’ll walk on the glacier, using crampons to navigate the icy terrain safely—an exciting experience for those wanting a bit of adventure. The guide provides plenty of insight into the glacier’s formation and history. After your trek, enjoy a hearty local lunch in a cozy eatery, completing an active day out. Reviewers praise the professional guides and the stunning scenery, describing the experience as both educational and fun.
At $354, it’s the most expensive tour here, but the combination of guided glacier walking, scenic views, and included lunch offers excellent value for travelers wanting an active, memorable day. It’s best suited for those comfortable with walking on ice and looking for a winter adventure.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who want to explore Matanuska Glacier in winter with all logistics handled for a smooth experience.
5. Wildlife Center with Lunch & Local Beer Sampling
This 4.5-hour tour is a shorter, more relaxed option that combines wildlife viewing with a taste of Alaskan craft beer. Starting at the William A. Egan Civic & Convention Center, the tour includes a scenic drive along the Seward Highway to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. Here, you’ll observe brown bears, moose, musk-ox, and wolves in habitat settings that resemble their natural environment.
After the wildlife center visit, the tour continues to Girdwood for a lunch and beer tasting at the local brewery. The combination of wildlife, scenery, and local cuisine makes this a popular choice for those wanting a balanced experience without a full day commitment. Reviewers highlight the informative nature of the guide and the beautiful drive.
While the price of $195 is competitive, the real value lies in the compact schedule and the variety of experiences. It’s best suited for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a mix of wildlife and food.
Bottom Line: A good option for a shorter, engaging day that blends wildlife encounters with local beer and scenery.
6. Matanuska Glacier Hike with Lunch Summer & Winter
Finally, the Matanuska Glacier Hike with Lunch at number six offers an active day on one of Alaska’s most impressive glaciers. This roughly 8-hour tour begins with a scenic drive from Anchorage, followed by a two-hour guided ice trek across the glacier. The guides are experienced, and the hike is suitable for most fitness levels, with equipment provided.
The tour provides insights into the glacier’s geology and history, making it as educational as it is adventurous. After the hike, you’ll share a local lunch at a nearby eatery, helping to fuel your day of exploration. Reviewers like the personalized guides and the stunning ice formations. The small group size enhances the experience, making it easier to learn and ask questions.
At $315, this tour is priced for those seeking an active, outdoor experience with all logistics handled. It’s a great pick for travelers who enjoy hiking and want to see the glacier up close.
Bottom Line: Excellent for active travelers who want a hands-on glacier experience combined with a satisfying lunch.
How to Choose Your Lunch Experience in Anchorage
When selecting the ideal tour, consider your budget, available time, and interests. If you want a full day of wildlife and glacier viewing with a meal included, the Kenai Fjords Cruise or the Glacier Quest Cruise are excellent options. For a shorter, wildlife-focused trip with local beer, check out the Wildlife Center. If you prefer a winter adventure, the Matanuska Glacier offers a memorable glacier hike.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak summer months, as these popular tours tend to fill up fast. Also, consider weather and your fitness level—some tours involve walking on ice or boat trips, which require a bit of physical readiness.
Final Thoughts
Anchorage offers a rich array of lunch experiences that showcase Alaska’s natural beauty and wildlife. For a dramatic glacier and wildlife adventure, the Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise stands out. Those looking for a mix of wildlife, local culture, and craft beer may prefer the Wildlife Center and Brewery Tour. Active travelers who want to get their hands dirty with a glacier hike will find the Matanuska Glacier Hike to be a perfect fit.
No matter your choice, these tours promise a taste of Alaska’s wild spirit paired with a satisfying lunch. Be sure to book in advance and prepare for the unique experiences that make Alaska unforgettable.