February 2003 -- Best of the Modern Hotels and other Anchorage, AK Hotel/Accommodation Reviews

The Captain Cook has three towers, and can offer great views, or views of the other towers. It is best to upgrade to a suite, or better still to get one on the secured 17th floor. $15.25 for a taxi from the airport, you will be greeted by a doorman and your luggage will be handled for you. When you check in, the turn down service includes ice in your bucket and bottled water. The room offers great fluffy towels, french milled soap, and big soft robes. If travelling with a family or group, two suites can be booked with one entry.

Unique Qualities: This picture is from February 2003, and features my foot (haha) Darn those self-timers, can't see what you are shooting.

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Theme: Hotel
Comparison: most expensive
Prices: US$120-180  » Currency Converter
Phone: (907) 276-6000
Address: 4th and K
Directions: Downtown

The Anchorage Hotel is on the National Register of Historic Places and it's guest list includes Wiley Post, Will Rogers, Bob Marshall, and Sydney Laurence. The rooms are elegant and have a great homey feel.

There are only 26 rooms, so be sure to book early! Prices vary with the season.

Unique Qualities: Ask about "A night on the town" which includes a suite, dinner for two at Orso, and a Horse Drawn Carriage ride to and from dinner. Great for that special someone that you love.

The Anchorage Hotel is completely non-smoking.

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Theme: Hotel
Comparison: most expensive
Prices: US$180 and up  » Currency Converter
Phone: (907)272-4553 / (800) 544-0988
Address: 330 E Street
Directions: Downtown
Website: historicanchoragehotel.com
Other Contact: anchoragehotel@alaska.com

Returning from Girdwood, I was looking for a place to stay in Anchorage. (VT has really changed the way I travel). I chose the Millenium because I thought travellers might stay there, and location.

Millenium Hotels are a worldwide chain, but the one in Anchorage is decorated with much Alaskan Wildlife. It is not too expensive, and it is comfortable.

Unique Qualities: The one nice thing about the room was a little seat by the makeup area. I thought this was a thoughtful touch.

They also have a steam room in the fitness center. This is the kind that you have to set the timer and wait for the room to heat up. So start the timer, then get ready while the room heats up.

I really enjoy a steam room, it is much different than a sauna or a jacuzzi in the way it relaxes you. They are not as popular as they once were, I guess it is a matter of fashion.

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Theme: Hotel
Comparison: about average
Prices: US$80-120  » Currency Converter
Phone: 866-866-8086 (reservations)
Address: 4800 Spenard Rd, Anchorage, AK 99517
Directions: I had a room facing the lake/airport.
Website: www.millenniumhotels.com
Other Contact: 907-243-2300 (local)

The Comfort Inn Ship Creek is located down the hill from Downtown Anchorage near the Train Depot, and Ship Creek. This area was the original townsite of Anchorage.

Since it is a good walk into town, the hotel does provide a shuttle bus.

If you are planning a trip on the Alaska Railroad this is a good choice for location.

Unique Qualities: Many mid priced hotels offer breakfast, but the Comfort Inn Ship Creek goes a step beyond, with a crock full of hot gravy for biscuits and gravy, and a waffle iron, with premeasured mix.

The pool/spa area was being remodeled when I stayed, but it shoud be ready when you arrive.

My biggest concern would be the noise from the railroad, and the desk clerk says it is fairly constant, so if you are disturbed by noise, don't stay here.

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Theme: Hotel
Comparison: less expensive than average
Prices: US$40-80  » Currency Converter
Phone: 800-4choice (reservations)
Address: 111 W Ship Creek Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501
Directions: By Ship Creek and the original townsite.
Website: www.choicehotels.com
Other Contact: 907-277-6887 (local)

The International Hostel is where I choose to stay. Inexpensive, and convienent to everything. Absolutely best is you do not rent a car. Access to public transportation.
A night in the dormatory rooms is $19. Discounts for longer stays, private rooms are available.

Unique Qualities: The best thing about the hostel is that you will meet many colorful travelers, and will likely make friends.
It is a hostel so be aware that it is dormatory sleeping, and you may hear someone snore all night. There is a kitchen, and common areas for relaxing, and meeting

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Theme: Hostel
Comparison: least expensive
Prices: less than US$20  » Currency Converter
Directions: Located just around the corner from the Mariott Hotel.

If you are taking a motorcycle tour of Alaska, the House of Harley does have a small camping area. I did not inquire as to the requirements to use this facility, but I am sure the friendly folks will assist you.

Unique Qualities: Camping within the city, and convienent to all city ammenities.

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Theme: Campground
Comparison: least expensive

Address: Spenard Rd
Directions: Behind the House of Harley

A welcoming fireplace and a spacious lobby greet the weary traveller. Deluxe, moderate, or economy for any price range. Located on Spenard and convient to all of Anchorage.

Unique Qualities: Internet access in the business center.

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Theme: Hotel
Comparison: less expensive than average
Prices: US$40-80  » Currency Converter
Phone: (800)478-3346
Address: 4400 Spenard Rd
Website: puffininn.net
Other Contact: (907)243-4044

You are booking your trip and you don't want surprises. Go with the name brand, right? Our stay at the Hilton was a big letdown after the Captain Cook. They did not give us a discount for Hilton Club, so a room was the same price as a suite at the Cook, no turndown service, no robes, and a small room.

Unique Qualities: The "Business Center" is a Kinko's and you have to pay for services. After paying top dollar, this was unacceptable. For a more enjoyable stay on the same street, try the Anchorage Hotel, less expensive, and much, much more fun. Not to mention that you will be awakened by a train whistle!

Photo is from the lobby, White and Brown Bears, worth a look, but stay elsewhere.

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Theme: Hotel
Comparison: most expensive
Prices: US$120-180  » Currency Converter
Phone: Don't bother
Address: 3rd and E
Directions: Downtown

Eagle Crest. Run by the Salvation Army is also a dormitory lodging for those on a budget. Reservations are recommended.
Nightly rates are $20. Discounts for longer stays. Private rooms $25 for a triple, $30 for a double, and $35 for a single room.

Unique Qualities: Eagle Crest is a 'dry' facility. Use of Alcohol or illegal drugs is Prohibited. Common areas and cooking facilities, as well as laundry are some of the nicer amenities.

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Theme: Hostel
Comparison: least expensive

Phone: (907)276-5913
Address: 438 East 9th Ave
Directions: Not as convienent as the International Hostel, I recommend this place if you rent a car.