December travel
 

Anything going on in ANC? Any fishing trips for the day? Its my first time there!!! Thanks

I've been sportsfishing in Alaska many a time, May-Sept. I would guess that there's no salmon to be had in December (thus no river fishing). I would also guess that the halibut are still out there, but that the seas will be too rough for sports fishing.

I have been in ANC in December, and it's not all that cold, and is a real city with nice restaurants etc. I suspect that there's a web site that lists activities etc. have fun.

If there's enough snow Anchorage has fantastic x-country skiing right in town.

Alyeska ski resort 40 miles south in Girdwood is fun. And you can get a good meal nearby at Double Muskey.

Won't be any fishing going on...except ice fishing. Ask some specific questions and I'll drop by and do my best to answer them. (and I'm sure that the others around here will too!) :D

My Christmas weekend in ANC
 

Does ANC shutdown for Christmas? I'll be there from 12/24-26. Any suggestions for sightseeing during the 5 1/2 hours of daylight? Any suggestions on keeping warm during the 18 1/2 hours of darkness?
Is the Aurora Borealis visible from downtown? Should I rent a car?
Thank you for any advice and/or suggestions. ;)

Anc
 

Definitely rent a car- this time of year you ought to be able to get a pretty good deal.
The aurora, when it's visible, isn't usually seen from downtown- too many lights. Your best bet is to get out of town if there's a cloudless night and hope for the best.
If you ski, either downhill or X-C, there are lots of opportunities. Cross-country is especially good here, the Chugach Sate Park, "Anchorage's Back Yard", has almost a half-million acres to explore. For a great view of the Anchorage Bowl and the surrounding coastline and mountain ranges, visit the Glen Alps parking lot at the base of Flattop Mountain. Spectacular views, and also a good place to see the northern lights if they're out.
As far as other sights during your very brief stay, we've got a couple of good museums, but they'll probably be closed on Christmas. (None of my business, but that on earth prompts such an untimely visit?)
Hope this helps. If there's anything else I can help with drop me a note at [email protected]. Good luck with the trip plans.

As noted above...rent a car for sure...they'll be cheap this time of year. Grab the best deal you can get AT THE AIRPORT! Avoid the independent "off airport" places that you'll find using orbitz or google. They have weird hours and may well be closed for the holiday.

The Northern Lights are sketchy in the city. Too much light. If you drive 10 or 15 miles out of town though...and the clouds are cooperating...you'll get to see them. No guarantees though!

I'm not sure what my Christmas plans are yet. If I'm around though...I'd be pleased to meet for a toast and some cheer! I'll keep you posted.

Thanks for the Advice
 

Hey Guys!

Thank you for your words of wisdom. I've got the rental car and a cheap hotel room with a free continental breakfast so, I'm ready to see the sights and the Lights! ;)