This Bears & Beers Tasting Tour promises a unique blend of Alaska’s natural beauty and local flavor, combining wildlife encounters, breathtaking scenery, and craft beer in one memorable day. While we haven’t experienced it ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest this tour offers authentic, well-rounded adventures perfect for those wanting a taste of Alaska’s wild side without sacrificing comfort or convenience.
What we love about this experience: First, the chance to see Alaska’s iconic wildlife at the Conservation Center is a major highlight. Second, the scenic drive past Portage Glacier offers prime photo opportunities and the possibility of watching salmon spawn during the right season. Lastly, winding down with a local brewery tour at Girdwood provides a relaxed, flavorful ending.
A possible consideration is the cost—at $199 per person, it’s a solid value, but travelers should be aware that meals are not included, and the tour involves some driving and walking. It’s best suited for adventure seekers who appreciate wildlife, stunning scenery, and craft beer in a compact six-hour window. If you’re looking for a full-day tour or detailed historical insights, this might feel a bit brief.
Good To Know
- Wildlife Viewing: Visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and see bears and native animals.
- Scenic Drive: Enjoy breathtaking views of Portage Glacier with plenty of photo stops.
- Craft Beer Experience: Relax at a Girdwood brewery with tastings and food trucks.
- Seasonal Highlights: Opportunities to see salmon spawning or Beluga whales depending on the time of year.
- Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup, a small group of just 12 travelers, and all transportation included.
- Value for Money: Includes entry fees, snacks, water, and a memorable combination of nature and local culture.
The Full Scoop on the Tour Experience
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Starting Point & Overall Structure
The tour kicks off promptly at 10:00 am from a central Anchorage meeting point on West 4th Avenue. From there, you’ll hop into a comfortable van, with hotel pickup included, which is a nice perk that saves you from navigating public transport or parking. The group size is limited to 12, ensuring a relaxed experience and more personalized attention from guides.
Wildlife at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
The first major stop is the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center—a highlight for anyone eager to see Alaskan animals up close. As you drive out of downtown Anchorage, your guide will point out local sights and share tidbits about the area’s history and wildlife. At the Conservation Center, you’ll have ample time to observe bears, moose, bison, and other native species in spacious enclosures.
Reviewers mention a guide named Angie, who “brought a lot of flare and knowledge” to the experience. Her enthusiasm and insights seemed to elevate the visit, making it more engaging. The conservation efforts here provide context to the wildlife, and the proximity to these animals offers great photo opportunities. Expect a minimum of 6 minutes for admission, but the time spent exploring is flexible depending on the group’s interest.
Scenic Drive & Portage Glacier
After the wildlife encounter, the journey continues towards Portage Glacier, a signature Alaskan landscape. The drive itself is scenic, with views of high-hanging glaciers and lush Chugach National Forest. During the right season, travelers might observe salmon spawning, adding a dash of seasonal excitement. Reviewers liked the “great scenic photo opportunities” and appreciated the chance to see diverse natural features during the drive.
The drive around the glacier takes approximately an hour, with stops allowing for stunning landscape photos. While the glacier itself is the star, the surrounding forests and waterways are equally impressive, making this a visual feast.
Beer Tasting and Girdwood Experience
The final part of the tour takes you to Girdwood, a charming mountain town at the base of Alyeska Ski Resort. Here, you’ll enjoy a local brewery tour and tasting, which has earned praise for its relaxed vibe and quality drinks. Be sure to bring an ID, as alcohol consumption is involved. Several comments mention that the brewery has excellent food trucks, making it a great spot for a laid-back lunch or snack with your beer.
The brewery visit is flexible, depending on staff permitting, and offers a pleasant way to unwind after a busy morning. The tasting experience perfectly complements the earlier wildlife and scenic stops, blending nature with local craft culture.
Additional Seasonal Highlights
Depending on the time of year, the tour might include sightings of Beluga whales or the Bore Tide, adding extra excitement. These moments are not guaranteed but are well worth noting for wildlife enthusiasts who are flexible about seasonal surprises.
What’s Not Included & Practical Tips
While the tour covers many highlights, it does not include meals, so packing snacks or planning for a meal in Girdwood is advisable. Water and snacks are provided during the drive, which helps keep energy levels up. The cost of $199 offers good value when considering the entry fees, transportation, and guided experience.
Who is this Tour Best For?
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This experience suits travelers who want a balanced snapshot of Alaska’s wildlife, natural scenery, and local culture in a manageable timeframe. If you’re a nature lover, you’ll particularly enjoy the chance to see bears and scenic glaciers. For craft beer fans, the Girdwood brewery provides a fun, relaxed end to your day. The tour’s small group size and knowledgeable guides make it ideal for those seeking a more personalized, engaging experience.
However, if you prefer a full-day exploration or are interested in in-depth historical and cultural insights, you might find this tour somewhat brief. It’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of Alaska without the commitment of a longer excursion.
The Sum Up
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The Bears & Beers Tasting Tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Alaska’s wild landscape and local brewing scene. It combines wildlife encounters, scenic vistas, and craft beer in a compact, thoughtfully organized six-hour adventure. The small-group format and inclusive features like hotel pickup make it convenient and personalized, especially for first-time visitors or those short on time.
You’ll love the way this tour balances nature and local culture, making it a memorable story to share. The scenery alone—high-hanging glaciers and lush forests—is worth the price, but the added bonus of beer tasting and wildlife viewing makes it even more appealing.
This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who want a diverse, authentic taste of Alaska without the fuss of longer excursions. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a nature photographer, or simply someone looking to enjoy Alaska’s scenic beauty with a cold brew in hand, this experience offers a compelling, value-packed option.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup in Anchorage, making it easy to start your adventure without extra hassle.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 6 hours, from 10:00 am to early afternoon, including travel, stops, and tasting.
What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and engaging experience.
Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but snacks and water are provided during the trip, and there are food trucks at the brewery for additional options.
Do I need to bring ID?
Yes, you must have a valid ID for the beer tasting at Girdwood’s brewery.
Are seasonal wildlife sightings guaranteed?
No, but during certain seasons you might see salmon spawning or Beluga whales, depending on timing and luck.
What is the cost?
The tour costs $199 per person, which includes entry fees, snacks, water, and the brewery tasting. It offers a good value considering the full experience.
In all, the Bears & Beers Tasting Tour combines Alaska’s natural splendor with a relaxed taste of local craft beer. Perfect for those seeking a lively yet authentic day out, it’s a well-structured, memorable adventure worth considering on your Alaska trip.