Although originally designed for lectures, the acoustics in this 232-seat room are so exceptional that it has become a bona fide performance venue. Folk singers Dave Van Ronk, Ellis Paul and Carrie Newcomer have all performed in this intimate setting recently. Small performances such as solo harpsichord concerts will be held here for its chamber-like feel. For further information regarding future performances and ticket information, please call or visit the website.
Every day, spring to fall, more than 24 million gallons of rushing water comes through Ship Creek. It is a pristine creek in which salmon spawn. The viewing platform offers visitors an opportunity to watch salmon run while fishermen attempt to hook them. Remember, to fish in this creek, as anywhere else, you must have the appropriate fishing license. For now, despite regular discussions about developing it with displays and underwater creek bed viewing, the creek remains untouched except for the wooden viewing platform.
Originally built in 1915, this award-winning building has the only corner turret found in Anchorage. It was constructed by an early civic leader, A.J. Wendler. Each year, the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race begins in front of this building; the starting point is marked by a large bronze sled dog. This building was occupied for 18 years by "One People," a co-op that enables indigenous people worldwide to be self-sufficient by providing a sales outlet for their endangered arts and crafts. It is now a coffee shop and art gallery dedicated to displaying works by Alaskan artists. - Christine Keene
Built in 1915, this was the first multi-story building built, and filled with early commerce. Providing one of the earliest stores, Kimball's stocked the items necessary for the flood of Tent City residents who were moving into their own, more permanent homes. Della Kimball, daughter of the pioneer, was 12 years old when her father opened the store and is one of the pioneers who rests in the Anchorage Memorial Cemetery. There is no admission.
Combined, Lake Hood and Lake Spenard (joined by two canals) provide the largest floatplane harbor in the world. The shoreline has several flightseeing, hunting and fly-in fishing companies (walk-in bookings possible). A large grass covered area on the south side of Lake Spenard offers wooden picnic benches and views of almost non-stop takeoffs and landings, in summer. A word to the wise, don't sit downwind or you will be soaked by the spray put off by the planes. Next door is the Alaska Aviation Heritage Museum. Admission: free.
So it doesn't look like the route to your grandmother's house with its tunnels and bridges, but it is a terrific, fast-paced trail for biking, rollerblading, skiing, jogging or other training workout. This trail has a few moderate hills, enough to get your lungs going, and stretches between the Westchester Lagoon Overlook, past the University's Goose Lake and out to the Russian Jack Springs Park (16 miles round-trip route).