
Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
A sanctuary for injured and orphaned Alaskan wildlife, offering close-up views in naturalistic, spacious habitats.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Animals are most active

Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
Best Time
Animals are most active

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sanctuary for injured and orphaned Alaskan wildlife, offering close-up views in naturalistic, spacious habitats.
"The animals looked very healthy and well cared for, and the entire place gave the impression of being thoughtfully designed."

🚗 Drive or Walk the Loop
The 1.5-mile loop is perfect for a scenic drive or a leisurely walk. Plenty of parking available!
📸 Capture Amazing Shots
Bring your camera! The enclosures offer great visibility for stunning wildlife photos.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Majestic Moose
Moose Enclosure
Witness these iconic Alaskan giants up close in spacious, naturalistic habitats.

Powerful Bears
Bear Enclosures
Observe brown and black bears, some of whom have had dramatic encounters, in expansive, well-maintained spaces.

Regal Musk Ox
Musk Ox Enclosure
Marvel at these ancient, shaggy beasts, a testament to Alaska's wild heritage.

Playful Wolves
Wolf Enclosure
See wolves in their element, often coming right up to the fence, offering incredible viewing opportunities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Optimal Wildlife Viewing
Self-Guided vs. Guided Tours
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive or Walk the Loop
The 1.5-mile loop is perfect for a scenic drive or a leisurely walk. Plenty of parking available!
📸 Capture Amazing Shots
Bring your camera! The enclosures offer great visibility for stunning wildlife photos.
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Consider booking tickets in advance for a smoother check-in experience.
🐻 Respect Animal Space
Never throw snowballs or disturb the animals. Observe them respectfully from a distance.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive or Walk the Loop
The 1.5-mile loop is perfect for a scenic drive or a leisurely walk. Plenty of parking available!
📸 Capture Amazing Shots
Bring your camera! The enclosures offer great visibility for stunning wildlife photos.
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Consider booking tickets in advance for a smoother check-in experience.
🐻 Respect Animal Space
Never throw snowballs or disturb the animals. Observe them respectfully from a distance.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
If you plan to walk the loop, comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the grounds.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, praising the spacious, naturalistic enclosures and the visible health and happiness of the animals. The scenic location and affordable pricing make it a highly recommended stop for animal lovers and families, though some note it's not the most 'robust' zoo experience.
"My husband and I visited the conservation center as part of a Glacier and Wildlife tour. We had an absolute blast. The bears were our favorite and we got some wonderful pictures. I enjoyed seeing animals up close that are normally behind glass at a zoo. I love the conservation efforts for the wood bison as well. We got to see some very new baby bison while we were there. I highly recommend visiting if you're in Alaska."
Samantha Tucker
"Had higher expectations in terms of number of bears and moose we will get to see here but turned out to be not as great as we expected. We thought of the entrance fee as a donation for the care of the amazing animals they have. We did not see a bull moose which was our main goal. We did get see musk ox and lynx which were quite cool."
Chirag S
"Amazing place to see wildlife up close. Despite the rainy day, everything was very accessible by car, with a few spots where we hopped out for a closer look. Gift shop is really quite nice and had a wide variety of gifts for anyone to find something. Great experience! Will go back!"
Emily Hall
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is located about an hour's drive south of Anchorage along the scenic Seward Highway. You can drive your own car or take a tour bus.
Yes, there is ample parking available, especially in front of the exhibits, making it convenient for both self-driving and walking tours.
Absolutely! The center is open year-round, and winter visits offer a unique perspective with snowy landscapes and fewer crowds. You can even drive your car through.
The Seward Highway is a beautiful drive, offering stunning coastal views. It's a straightforward route from Anchorage, making the journey part of the experience.
While direct public transport might be limited, many visitors opt for rental cars or organized tours that include transportation from Anchorage.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices are considered very reasonable and affordable, offering great value for the experience. It's recommended to check their official website for the most current pricing.
Yes, you can typically purchase tickets at the entrance. However, booking online in advance can sometimes ensure a smoother entry process.
While specific discounts aren't always advertised, the general admission price is already quite affordable. Keep an eye on their website or local tourism sites for potential deals.
The center is open year-round, but hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
Many visitors find the self-guided 1.5-mile loop, which can be driven or walked, to be sufficient for seeing all the animals. Guided tours are available but not essential for a great experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see a variety of Alaskan wildlife including brown bears, black bears, moose, wolves, musk ox, bison, caribou, eagles, porcupines, and more.
Yes, the enclosures are notably large, providing animals with ample space to move freely and exhibit natural behaviors, which impressed many visitors.
The center features a 1.5-mile loop that can be explored on foot, allowing for close-up views of the animals.
Absolutely! It's a fantastic place for families, offering an educational and engaging experience for kids to learn about Alaskan wildlife.
Animals are often most active in the early morning and late afternoon. Visiting during these times increases your chances of seeing them move around.
📸 📸 Photography
The viewing areas along the 1.5-mile loop offer excellent vantage points for photographing the animals in their spacious enclosures.
While you can get quite close, always maintain a safe distance and respect the animals' space. Some animals, like wolves, may approach the fences.
Yes, photography is generally allowed throughout the center. However, always be mindful of any specific signage or staff instructions.
A telephoto lens can be beneficial for capturing detailed shots of animals from a distance, but even a standard camera or smartphone can capture great memories.
While not explicitly advertised, the center occasionally hosts photo competitions, suggesting a strong interest in visitor photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families:
* Pack snacks and drinks: While there's a gift shop, having your own provisions can be helpful.
* Allow ample time: Kids often enjoy lingering at exhibits, so plan for at least a few hours.
* Talk about conservation: Use the visit as a chance to discuss why these animals need protection and how they ended up at the center.
💰 Budget Travelers
Tips for budget travelers:
* Self-drive: If you have a rental car, the cost of admission is the main expense.
* Pack your own lunch: Save money by bringing a picnic to enjoy amidst the scenic surroundings.
* Focus on the self-guided tour: Skip the guided tour fee and explore at your own pace.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Photography tips:
* Visit during golden hours: Early morning and late afternoon light can create dramatic and beautiful photos.
* Be patient: Wildlife photography requires patience. Wait for animals to move into good positions.
* Experiment with angles: The viewing platforms and pathways offer various perspectives.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mission of Conservation
Visitors often remark on how healthy and well-cared-for the animals appear, noting the impressive size of the enclosures. These spacious habitats are designed to mimic the animals' natural environments as closely as possible, allowing them to exhibit natural behaviors and move freely. This focus on animal welfare and naturalistic settings sets AWCC apart from traditional zoos.
The center also plays a role in wildlife research and education. By observing these animals in a controlled yet naturalistic setting, researchers can gather valuable data. Educational programs and presentations further inform the public about the challenges facing Alaskan wildlife and the importance of conservation efforts.
Navigating the Scenic Loop
When driving, you can stop and park at various points along the loop to get a closer look at the animals. The enclosures are strategically placed to offer excellent viewing opportunities. For those who prefer to explore on foot, comfortable shoes are a must, as the loop provides a more immersive experience and allows you to linger at exhibits.
During peak season, the loop can get busy, but visitors note that the crowds tend to pick up as the day progresses. Arriving earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon can help you avoid the busiest times and enjoy a more peaceful experience with the wildlife.
Photography Opportunities
Many visitors highlight the excellent visibility of the animals, even within their large habitats. This means you can get clear shots of bears, moose, wolves, and other creatures as they move, interact, and go about their day. The center even hosts photo competitions, encouraging visitors to share their best shots.
While a telephoto lens can be beneficial for capturing detailed shots from a distance, don't feel you need professional gear. Even with a smartphone or a standard camera, you can capture memorable moments. The key is to be patient, observe the animals' behavior, and be ready to snap photos when the moment is right.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit