Anchorage

Anchorage is Alaska's largest city with a population of 260,000. Located on the northern end of Cook Inlet, Anchorage is surronded by spectacular mountains and open water. To the east are the Chugach Mountains and to the west is the Alaska Range, Kenai Mountains and Turnagain Arm. And to the north is the Talkeetna Mountain Range and the Knik Arm.

The major growth of Anchorage began in 1917 with construction of the Alaska Railroad headquarters. This continued in spurts until the late 60's with the implementation of farming, military facilities and the discovery of oil, including construction of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline.

The 9.2 earthquake on the Richter scale on Good Friday, 1964, redefined much of coastal Anchorage. The underlying clay composition changed which caused significant landslides. Although ranked as the strongest earthquake in North American history, the number of deaths recorded was only 131.

The 70's and 80's brought an economic boom to Anchorage. Construction and population rose due to oil company offices and the earlier growth of Anchorage brought new business interests to the "Last Frontier".

The majority of people visiting Alaska will have the opportunity to explore Anchorage. It has facilities similar to any mid-sized city in the United States. Visitors can discover the history of both Alaska and Anchorage at the Alaska Native Heritage Center and the Anchorage Museum of Art and History. Downtown Anchorage has many stores offering souvenirs and local art for all types of collectors. And Anchorage does not have any sales tax on good or services purchased within the Municpality of Anchorage so your shopping dollars go further here!

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