we love girdwood in the winter for cozy ski vacations and weekend getaways, but it might be even better in the summer!? maybe i’m just a little more exploratory when it’s warm out? alaska warm that is. the town has some of my favorite restaurants in the state, the best hike, the best views, and is the perfect staycation spot just far enough away from anchorage. alyeska resort is where we stay if we’re not in an airbnb and is prime location for all of the hotspots. we love to go during perfect alaskan summer weather but it’s also kind of magical in the rain? either way — you’ll love.

let’s get into it. here are my all time favorites in girdwood — things to do, hikes to go on, best restaurants, favorite patio — i’m telling you, all the goodness!

best breakfast - the bake shop

honestly shocked that i’m recommending a boozeless brunch but here we are! the sourdough pancakes or bottomless soup is basically all you need to know. i actually dream of these. sourdough pancakes with a baby oj and slice of bacon on the side is like perf hangover food. and I don’t care what month of the year i will eat bake shop soup anytime all the time. they give you this fat loaf of bread with it that is a diet’s worst nightmare and 1000% worth it.

best hike - the north face

take this from someone not so obsessed with hiking — this is it! probably my favorite hike in alaska and one of my favorite things to do in the summer. 2 miles on an easy trail but gaining tons of elevation. the views are insane and there’s beer (+a full bar and food) at the top!? wait though — it gets better — you can take the tram down if you prefer! so if you’re feeling the beers or just had enough for the day, enjoy the view on the way down!

best view - the tram

the view here does not get better! mountains one way and ocean the other. you can catch wildlife, the gorg rainforest and sun shining on the inlet. cute photo ops at the top of the mountain and you can enjoy snacks, lunch, drinks or all three with the most beautiful view! try it on your way down from a hike, up for a beer at the top, or on your way to din at seven glaciers.

best patio - the sitzmark

sitz has always been a fave during ski season but is actually so perfect in the summer sunshine. they have a huge deck facing the mountain that is perfect for drinks or lunch after a hike orr just a great midday hang out spot. very casual, mountain town feel and typically hosts live music and events all summer long. shuttle here from the hotel or it’s just a quick mini hike over!

best casual dinner - jack sprat

i think food-wise this has to be the best spot in girdwood! (It’s even kind of cute too). so many amazing vegan and veg options if you’re into that and just delish all around. the drinks are beer and wine only but they have a wine bloody mary thing that is surprisingly tasty. have to order the nachos and peanut noodles. i swear — so good!

best 5 star dinner - seven glaciers

if you’re feeling fancy or just want to hit the bar for a good drink — this is your place! fun fact ppl have nice ass dinners here but in the wintertime skiers literally will sit at tables in their full gear?? Its odd but not because, alaska. anyways — amazing view of course from the top of the mountain - make sure to request a table with a view when making your res! and hot tip always make a res so there’s no need to wait in the tram ticket line. order a fizz for me :)

best restaurant hands down - the double musky

has to be a top restaurant in the state?? cajun cuisine and sooo alaska vibes but also so different than any other restaurant. my favorite way to do this is first grab a drink at the bar then move to a bar table and order as many appetizers as you can fit into your bod. seriously. the food rec list is too long! but here we go: steak tips, coco salmon, scallop mushrooms, gumbo, meatballs, halibut chunks, and fresh prawns. i think i just listed off the entire menu? whatever. enjoy!!