Bear Tooth Theatrepub
Anchorage

Even if you’re inclined to eschew the multiplex, don’t write off going to the movies just yet; the Bear Tooth screens recent attractions, as well as old classics and art films, sell for only three bucks. Described as "a great experience," particularly for those who "don’t like paying the rising price of entertainment," this movie theatre with tables offers a great menu selection to be enjoyed while you watch the film. With one-of-a-kind pizzas, locally-brewed beers, and the best margaritas in town, the Bear Tooth is part theatre, part pub — and a whole lot of fun. Read more.

Double Musky
Girdwood

With "enough flair to keep this small town on the map," Girdwood’s Double Musky is "definitely worth the scenic drive," thanks to its "great Alaskan atmosphere and fantastic food with an Alaskan/Cajun theme." Regaled for both the juicy, thick pepper steak and eclectic ambiance — you can’t miss the thousands of knick knacks and mardi gras beads hanging from the ceiling. Double Musky’s portions are huge and the service is "excellent." A word of advice from a regular: although you can’t make reservations, the margaritas make the wait go fast. Read more.

Hatcher Pass Lodge
Palmer

If you’re spending some time exploring beautiful Hatcher Pass — with its hiking trails, surrounding mountains, and opportunities to pick blueberries along the road — rest your weary feet a while at Hatcher Pass Lodge. In an area where "the scenery is unbelievable," the cozy inn boasts nine cabins and three rooms, as well as a great menu with fresh food. Throw in some good drinks — including the popular hot buttered rum — and a few friendly resident cats to keep you company and you’ve got a perfectly pleasant place to lay your head. Read more.

The Hurricane Turn Train
Talkneeta to Hurricane Gulch

For those who believe that the journey truly is the destination, a trip on one of America’s last flag stop trains is an experience not to be missed. Join the locals, who "pile on with dogs, rifles, and groceries, for the 55-mile run to Hurricane Gulch, "the highest bridge in Alaska." With ample time to talk to the folks who live in the wilderness north of Talkneeta, you’ll get a unique perspective on the history of the area, while watching for bear or moose. "And keep your fingers crossed the train is running a little ahead of schedule; if it is, the engineer will stop the train in a canyon alongside the Indian River and let passengers get out for pictures." Read more.

Café Amsterdam
Anchorage

Raise a pint glass for one of the lesser-known venues in town, Café Amsterdam, "where people who enjoy good beer can toast their own good taste." With a whole host of regional and imported brews on tap — as well as a huge list of bottles, most with a European bent — locals claim that the beer selection is the big attraction here." A clued-in staff completes the picture, making Café Amsterdam a must for true beer lovers. Read more.