Alaska is a unique place with year-round activity and attractions. Yet, even though we love our sledding and snow sculptures, we are all excited for springtime to FINALLY arrive. Spring is that special time of year when nature wakes up from its winter slumber, the days grow longer, and the weather warms, making it the perfect season for family-friendly activities; gearing up for our beloved summers with the famous midnight sun. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or ways to make memories with your kids, there are plenty of things to do locally this spring that will keep the entire family entertained. Here’s a guide to some of the best family-friendly activities to enjoy this season in Anchorage, Wasilla, Eagle River, and Palmer!

1. Visit a Local Park or Nature Reserve

Spring is the perfect time to explore the great outdoors. Anchorage offers numerous beautiful parks, such as Kincaid Park, where you can enjoy hiking trails and wildlife sightings (watch out for the moose!). A little farther north, the Eagle River Nature Center provides scenic trails and educational programs for kids. And to the south, Potter’s Marsh boardwalk is a favorite for springtime bird watching!

Favorites:
– Campbell Creek Science Center
– Campbell Creek Trailhead (this is one of our session spots!)
– Kincaid Park
– Eagle River Nature Center
– Potter’s Marsh Boardwalk
– Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
– Reflection Lake Trailhead
– Wasilla Boardwalk

2. Go on a Family Hike

For a kid-friendly hike, try Thunderbird Falls in Chugiak, which features a short and scenic trail leading to a beautiful waterfall, and the lower elevation usually means that it’s snow-free by springtime. The Butte Trailhead in Palmer (Butte) is another great option for families looking for a more challenging hike, and the view is 1000% worth it!

3. Visit a Farm

Located in Palmer, the Musk Ox Farm is a must-visit in the spring. Families can learn about these fascinating Arctic animals, take a guided tour, and even see baby musk oxen, which are born in the spring. It’s a fun and educational experience for all ages. And this year, our family’s favorite: the Williams Reindeer Farm, also in Palmer (Butte), will be opening up for springtime tours to welcome all the little baby reindeer (a must if you have any Frozen fans in your household!), plus they have storytime days, baby animal days, and paint nights, too!

4. Go on a Family Bike Ride

Anchorage has an extensive trail system perfect for biking or walking, including the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, which offers stunning views of the Cook Inlet. If you don’t own bikes, there are several rental shops in Downtown that will be glad to hook you up with wheels for the day, and you can even rent a bike trailer for the kids! In the Valley, the Mat-Su Greenbelt Trails provide a great place for a family bike ride.

5. Visit the Alaska Zoo

Located in Anchorage, the Alaska Zoo is home to a variety of Alaskan wildlife, including bears, moose, and wolves (it’s so cool to hear them all howl!). Spring is an excellent time to visit, as many animals are more active in the milder weather and are extra perky now that winter’s over. Keep an eye out for special events and educational programs, like the Dino Lights Event that is going on right now!

6. Exercise Your Green Thumb

Spring is the perfect time to start a small family garden. Whether you plant flowers, vegetables, or herbs, gardening is a rewarding experience that teaches kids about nature and responsibility. Try planting hardy Alaskan crops like carrots, potatoes, and lettuce for a fun and educational experience. To make it even better, many of the local Garden Shops and Greenhouses host spring plating events and workshops, like Ken’s Garden Center in Wasilla. Or, if you don’t possess a green thumb and just want to be around plants, check out the Mann Leiser Memorial Greenhouse in Anchorage. It’s free to the public and offers a refreshing tropical escape in the middle of the city.

With so many family-friendly activities to enjoy in Anchorage, Wasilla, Eagle River, and Palmer this spring, there’s no shortage of ways to make lasting memories. Whether you’re exploring the outdoors, getting creative, or attending a local event, these activities will help you and your family celebrate the end of hibernation! Happy spring adventures!

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