Whether you’re visiting in the summer or the winter, nothing tops off the day like a good brew or cocktail. Hitting the town after a day of adventuring provides an entertaining glimpse into Anchorage, Alaska’s nightlife, culture and diverse selection of bar-hopping possibilities.
Anchorage has a wide variety of breweries, dive bars and places serving up the best signature cocktails. Keep reading to get the inside scoop on all the best bars in Anchorage. Another thing we love about these Anchorage bars is most of them are not too far from the Westmark Anchorage Hotel!
Sports bars
1. The Peanut Farm
5227 Old Seward Hwy, Anchorage, AK 99518
Located not too far from downtown Anchorage, The Peanut Farm is one of Anchorage’s most popular sports bars, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner to ensure you don’t miss any sports games. With the catchy slogan “we must be nuts,” sports fans don’t have to hold back when rooting for their favorite team.
2. 907 Ale House
8001 Old Seward Hwy, Anchorage, AK 99518
With televisions in every direction you look, 907 Ale House is the perfect place to gather with friends. Located in midtown off the Old Seward Highway, the menu here will keep you full and its extensive beer list will leave you with plenty of options on what to order next.
Gay bars
3. Mad Myrna’s
530 E 5th Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501
In downtown Anchorage, Mad Myrna’s is anything but mad. This establishment is a local favorite drag and gay bar. This LGBTQ+ nightclub is the perfect location to dance the night away and find any reason to celebrate. With high energy and delicious food, make a champagne toast with your pals while watching the live drag show.
4. The Raven
736 E 4th Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501
The Raven in downtown Anchorage, right off Fourth Avenue, has been around since 1982. Time and time again, patrons leave saying two things — friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere. Combine that with events, games and an outdoor seating area and you have a winning combination!
Breweries
5. 49th State Brewing
717 W 3rd Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501
A local favorite watering hole located on Third Avenue, 49th State Brewing serves up award-winning beer and features an outdoor rooftop patio overlooking the Cook Inlet and the Alaska Range.
6. Glacier Brewhouse
737 W 5th Ave #110, Anchorage, AK 99501
For a cozy atmosphere head over to Glacier Brewhouse on Fifth Avenue in downtown Anchorage. Dine in with some of the city’s best Alaska seafood paired perfectly with one of its in-house brews.
7. Midnight Sun Brewing Co.
8111 Dimond Hook Dr, Anchorage, AK 99507
Head south in the city to Midnight Sun Brewing Co., known for its wide selection of amazing brews and fresh food with a modern touch. This brewery is located on Dimond Hook Drive. If it looks like you’re driving into an industrial area, you’re in the right place!
Dive Bars
8. Koot’s
2435 Spenard Rd, Anchorage, AK 99503
Koot’s is a bar where something is always going on, and sometimes multiple things at once (there are three stages and three dance floors). From DJs and stand-up comedians to live bands, there’s something for everyone. This unique experience has 10 bars, all with their own themes, in one building. Head to the end of Spenard Road to find this popular hangout spot.
9. Darwin’s Theory
426 G St, Anchorage, AK 99501
A local favorite, Darwin’s Theory is a must-see attraction. Located on G Street right in the middle of downtown, when you need a break from browsing the stores, this is the place to go. People remember Darwin’s as the friendly bar with the free popcorn and a signature drink that is sure to warm you up — cinnamon schnapps and tabasco! According to their website, Darwin is the world’s biggest seller of cinnamon schnapps!
10. Van’s Dive Bar
1027 E 5th Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501
With live music shows every Friday and Saturday, Van’s Dive Bar is located on Fifth Ave. next to the historic Lucky Wishbone. In 2020 Press Picks, Van’s was voted “best” in a number of categories including best open mic and best dive bar. Needless to say, this place is a hit!
We can write about these bars all day, but nothing compares to coming to experiencing the real thing! For other things to do during the day, check out our blog 21 Things to Do in Downtown Anchorage: A Walking Tour for some activities close to the Westmark Anchorage Hotel. Plus, check out our specials page for travel deals and offers.
