Anchorage Food & True Crime Walking Tour
Description
Imagine the late 1960s and early 1970s in Alaska: the pipeline construction has brought an influx of cash, transforming Anchorage into a wild and perilous city. As the population rapidly doubles, so does the crime rate, turning the city into a beacon of opportunity for both honest workers and unsavory characters. Overnight, brothels, bars, clubs, and gambling dens spring up, with alcohol and drugs flowing freely. The fast-paced lifestyle attracts mobsters, prostitutes, bikers, and con artists, all eager to claim their share of the newfound wealth.
This turbulent backdrop sets the stage for gripping stories of the era, which you can uncover on our half-day Food & True Crime Walking Tour. Delve into Anchorage’s notorious past, focusing on the Spenard neighborhood—the epicenter of the city's seedy activities. This 3.5-hour tour offers a taste of Anchorage’s dark history alongside delicious food and strong drinks. We’ll explore the gritty streets, learn about the people and events that shaped this infamous era, and wrap up with drinks at one of Alaska's historic bars.
Please note, this tour is for adults 21 and older and is not suited for the faint of heart, children, or those sensitive to intense subjects. While we cover true crime events, our guides provide a respectful and engaging account, avoiding graphic details.
The Food & True Crime Walking Tour begins as you meet your engaging guide in the Spenard neighborhood of Anchorage. From there, you'll set off on a leisurely 3.5-hour walking tour through this iconic area, with plenty of delicious stops along the way. Throughout the tour, you'll explore some of Anchorage’s top locally-owned businesses, sampling a variety of regional and local favorites. Enjoy treats like Alaskan cod tacos, a charcuterie board featuring locally sourced ingredients, and more. As you savor these flavors, you'll also delve into the intriguing and dark history of Anchorage during the 1970s and 1980s.
You'll get an authentic feel for the infamous Spenard neighborhood as you walk between the eateries and shops. Each stop lasts about 15 to 20 minutes, with ample opportunities to sit and relax. After immersing yourself in the unique atmosphere of this storied area, gathering local insights and tales from your guide, and enjoying a range of local fare and drinks, the tour will conclude at "Anchorage’s most notorious bar."
What's Included
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does this tour take place?
The tour takes place in the Spenard neighborhood of Anchorage, known for its notorious history during the pipeline boom of the 1970s and 1980s.
What kind of food and drinks are included?
You'll enjoy a curated selection of Alaskan cuisine, including Alaskan cod tacos, a regional charcuterie board, and other locally inspired dishes. Alcoholic beverages are also included at select stops.
What should I wear?
Dress for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes. Since this is an outdoor tour, layers are recommended for changing conditions.
Is this a strenuous walk?
Not at all. The tour is a leisurely walk with multiple stops, each lasting about 15 to 20 minutes. There are opportunities to sit, relax, and enjoy food and drinks along the way.