Top Museums in Anchorage

Alaska Heritage Library Museum

This outstanding collection, created in 1968 by the National Bank of Alaska, is dedicated to providing insight into native Alaskan culture and Alaskan history. It is one of the largest privately owned public displays within Alaska. The exhibits include artifacts as much as 2,000 years old, paintings from the best-known names in Alaskan history, hand-crafted baskets from each of the state's native groups, a collection of 1895 rifles, a collection of ivory carvings and more than 2,800 rare books about Alaska and its natives. Admission is free.

Whaling Wall

Nationally recognized muralist Wyland has painted a mural that is 400 feet in length and five stories in height (on the J.C. Penney's wall) depicting underwater whales with icebergs floating above them. The scene is particularly Alaskan because of the mountains of ice in the background and the fur seals shown resting on the icebergs. Elsewhere in the U.S., Wyland has painted humpback migrations and scenes of great blue whales (found in Pacific Coast cities along Hwy 101).

Anchorage Museum of History & Art

The main attraction at this multi-galleried museum is the Alaska Gallery with more than 1,000 pieces of history, artwork and photography by Alaskans. Five other galleries are housed in the downtown-area museum, showcasing a variety of temporary exhibits from all over the world and a Children's Gallery. This is a fascinating museum to visit. During the months of June through August, see educational evening programs at 7pm.

Aurora Fine Arts Gallery

See the rare Byron Birdsall stone lithographs from the 80s and admire the ceramic pieces created by artist Robin McLane. Check out the variety of Alaskan wildlife art by Donna Gates King and Ed Tussey. See the selection of pastel originals by Guitta Corey, then browse through a variety of modern artwork and in contrast, the Native masks created by Lester Newell. This gallery has a huge selection with 90 percent of it being Alaskan art.

Obeidi's Fine Art Ltd. Gallery

As the largest art gallery in Anchorage, this establishment carries works by Bateman, Brenders, Lyman, Smith, Tussey, Machetanz and more. It also houses an enormous selection of works by Bev Doolittle, an artist known for hiding images within her paintings. Offering free delivery of new releases and a layaway plan, the gallery is helpful and quick to assist in any special shopping needs you may have. Note: This is a dealer for the Millpond Press Greenwich Workshop.

Myron Rosenberg Photography Gallery

In the heart of downtown, Myron Rosenberg's gallery is chock-full of photographs so beautiful and varied, they might cause you to forget your schedule. This internationally known photographer balances insight, humor and respect, while capturing Mt. McKinley and other outstanding Alaskan scenes on film. The photographs can be shipped anywhere, can be purchased in custom sizes and are available as note cards. Come in and take the time to enjoy a look through his catalog or peruse the many selections hanging in the gallery.

Alaska Museum of Natural History

Since 1990, this museum's displays have educated the public on Alaska's rich natural history. All of the items collected by the museum have been donated or loaned by Alaska residents. Permanent exhibits include collections of Alaska dinosaurs and marine reptiles, Alaskan archaeology, and Alaskan paleontology. The museum holds the largest exhibits of Alaskan rock, mineral and fossils, and also showcases native artifacts dating back 11,000 years. From time-to-time, the museum also presents traveling exhibits from the Lower 48. Most exhibits are fascinating for people of all ages.

Chilkat Art Co.

This shop has jewelry, ivory carvings, whalebone, soapstone, horns and antlers, scrimshaw artwork and carvings. More than 350 Native artists contribute to the artwork on display. Well-known artists included are Bob Mary and Peter Myak. Paintings include some of Bev Doolittle's images hidden within images, as well as Frank Machetanz's gripping wildlife and panoramic Alaskan scenes. Custom requests are welcome and the knowledgeable staff is available to answer questions about Native artwork, Native history and the locations of artists.

Arctic Rose Gallery

Tucked into the building where Simon's & Seafort's Saloon & Grill is located, this varied and colorful gallery holds many treasures. Friday's gala events of artist shows lend opportunities to meet artists. Or, stop in for a bit of browsing, anytime. Colorful hand-blown glass centerpieces, Bev Doolittle paintings, chimes, paintings, murals, sculptures and other items of interest fill this small shop. Around the corner from the Snow City Cafe and the Copper Whale Inn this gallery rests just above the hill from the Oscar Anderson historical home and the Cook Inlet.

International Gallery of Contemporary Art

The IGCA, while not new to Anchorage, is rapidly becoming one of the most exciting and innovative museums in Alaska. With a newly renovated gallery in the heart of downtown, the IGCA regularly exhibits experimental works of art from Alaskan and internationally renowned artists. Recent exhibitions have included FREEZE, an outdoor, hands-on installation where visitors tour through larger than life, iced works of art in the downtown park strip. Now for the cream: this museum is free to the public. Additionally, inquiring visitors are often allowed to drop by the studios of resident artists to watch creativity come to life. – Christine Keene