Northern exposure: fall edition
Pictures don’t do it justice. Waking up in the largest state in the union with mountain peaks, glaciers and moose as neighbors has to be experienced to be fully appreciated. I recently traveled from the lower 48 to attend Hosts Global Forum at Alyeska Resort, a 40-minute scenic drive from Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC), a trip often accompanied by orca whale and swan sightings. I was in awe from first light (which comes early and sets late during the summer months).
This elevated lodge in the Chugach Mountains is built around a Nordic spa with hydrotherapy pools, rainforest steam rooms and an exfoliation cabin. Trams to the summit put the panorama of the seven glaciers in view.
Downtown Delights
The City of Anchorage is home to almost 300,000, about 40% of the state’s population. Groups can choose their adventure style with a variety of options in the walkable downtown.
Historic The Hotel Captain Cook has hosted U.S. presidents and countless C-suite executives dating back to 1965. The independent property pays homage to the British explorer who mapped the area as part of a quest to find the Northwest Passage. With almost 100,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, 557 guest rooms and five dining options in three towers, it anchors the local hospitality scene.
Hilton Anchorage brings 25,000 sq. ft. of event space to the hanging basket capital of the world. The property is in the midst of a multiphase renovation that has already revealed a sparkling new lobby featuring native art and a wide-open feel.
New in town is modern-cozy The Wildbirch Hotel, a JdV by Hyatt property, which sits at the start of the annual Iditarod dog sled race and boasts a house brewery that can custom-make libations for groups.
For the full craft experience, 49th State Brewing offers local beer, multiple private dining rooms and views of Cook Inlet. The owners consider themselves a community center and host concerts, conferences and theater performances to prove it.
For a memorable offsite, how about dinner in a restaurant over Ship Creek, one of the major salmon streams in the area? The Bridge Company brings fine group dining to a scenic location or caters to your space.
Close Encounters
For those looking to bring incentive guests close and personal with the wonders of Alaska, a dinner cruise from Whittier on Prince William Sound offers wildlife and glacier sightings along with narration and photo opportunities.
Not close enough? Alaska Destination Specialists arranges helicopter tours with glacier landings and float-plane encounters to provide a better perspective on the expanse of the terrain.
A Fresh Vibe
However you Anchorage, the Sauv Blanc-crisp air brings its own intoxicating effects. One deep breath and the shoulders lower, the face relaxes and the lungs take their time letting go. I can tell you, it took my breath away.
