2023 Alaska Winter Activity Guide

MAP

KEEP IT LOCAL

When purchasing products in Alaska, look for the Made in Alaska logo. It signifies the product was manufactured entirely in this state. This logo is your assurance of local quality.

In his speech to persuade Congress to purchase Alaska in 1860, William Henry Seward spoke of its many riches, including gold, timber, jade, furs, and fish. Many of today’s most popular art objects and souvenirs are made of the very materials Seward talked about more than 150 years ago. The unique crafts produced in Alaska come from the earth and capture the spirit of this wild, untamed country. Here’s what you’ll want to bring home.

FURS

Founded in 1922, 34 David Green Master Furrier is an Anchorage institution whose slogan is, “If you don’t know furs, know your furrier.” Most travelers who come into the store are drawn to the sheared mink or beaver pieces, from vests to full-length coats. But you can also find earmuffs, scarfs, headbands, hats, gloves, boots, blankets and capes. There are more than 3,000 items in stock at all times, with a huge vault that you can explore! 130 W. 4th Ave., Anchorage; 907-277-9595.

GOLD

35 Northern Made Creations Gold & Diamond Co. carries rocks, gems, and minerals from Alaska and around the world—from rough to refined. They either mine their own gold or purchase it from local miners right here in Alaska! Browse gold nugget and gold quartz jewelry, raw uncut diamonds, fine jewelry, agates, thunder eggs, Alaskan garnets, and more. 4300 Old Seward Hwy, Anchorage; 907-338-7778.

CLOTHING & OUTDOOR GEAR

Located on Town Square in the heart of downtown, 36 6th Avenue Outfitters (907-276-0233) is all about Alaska-worthy clothing and gear. But it’s more than gear—they offer great knowledge, too. The staff will share first-hand tips on what will work best for you, insider knowledge about places to go, and things to do. They also have the only outdoor outlet in Anchorage! The upstairs level is filled with deals on outerwear, footwear, and more. 524 West 6th Avenue, Anchorage; 907-276-0233

SHOPPING MECCA

As Alaska’s largest tax-free shopping center, 37 Dimond Center Mall (907-344-2581) includes local Alaskan businesses, national retailers, restaurants, a Dave & Buster’s, a movie theater with recliners, a bowling alley, and an ice rink. You get shopping, dining and entertainment all under one roof, with top brands including lululemon, Ulta, H&M, Old Navy, and more. 800 E. Diamond Blvd., Anchorage; 907-344-2581

See pages 13

29 SHOPPING

NORTHERN MADE CREATIONS GOLD & DIAMOND CO. ALASKAN GOLD NUGGET and GOLD QUARTZ JEWELRY We mine it! We make it! From Rough to Refined. One of a kind Jewelry Designs. • Rocks • Gems • Minerals • Fossils • Arts & Gifts 907-338-7778 • www.NorthernMadeCreations.com 4300 Old Seward Hwy, Anchorage, AK 99503 (on the corner of Tudor & Old Seward Hwy) 30 SHOPPING

TIPS TO STAY WARM IN WINTER

It’s easy for anyone to stay warm and dry during a winter trip to Alaska. Just follow these rules.

1. Layer! Wearing several layers is the best way to trap heat close to your body. Wear a light- to midweight wool or synthetic base layer (no cotton!) that fits snugly to your body. Wear a top and bottom. The next (middle) layer should include midweight fleece or Capilene. Packable down- or synthetic-filled sweater jackets also work well. Top it off with a nylon jacket or ski parka that fits over your insulating layers, to cut the wind and trap heat.

2. Keep your feet warm. If you’re going to be outside for extended periods of time (like viewing the northern lights, or on long snowmobile or dog sled rides), boots rated at -20 to -40 are a good idea. If you already have a pair of boots but are concerned they won’t be warm enough, toe warmers can usually make up the difference! Wear wool or synthetic winter socks—just no cotton.

3. Choose mittens over gloves. Mittens are the best choice because they keep your fingers together and trap heat more effectively than gloves. Again, hand warmers can lend some extra warmth. If you’ll be removing your mittens to take photos, wear a thin glove underneath the mitten.

4. Keep your head warm. Pair a hat with a balaclava that will cover your nose and cheeks. If you’re active and become warm, swap the hat for a headband—but keep those ears covered to avoid frostbite!

If you’re in need of extra gear and expert advice, stop into 6th Avenue Outfitters (907-276-0233) in Downtown Anchorage.

31 STAY WARM

6th Avenue

@

Outfitter

32 STAY WARM Alaska’s top collection of retail, restaurants, and entertainment all under one roof. Redeem your free VIP Coupon Book at the Information Desk near Ulta DIMONDCENTER.COM / 800 E. DIMOND BLVD. / 907-344-2581 SHOP DINE PLAY