Bears & Beers Tasting Tour out of Anchorage

Exploring Alaska’s wild side doesn’t have to mean venturing off on your own with a GPS in hand. The Bears & Beers Tasting Tour out of Anchorage offers a well-rounded taste of the state’s iconic wildlife, stunning scenery, and local craft brewing—all in about six hours. For $199 per person, you get a comfortable half-day experience that combines wildlife sightings, breathtaking landscapes, and a lively brewery visit with tastings at the base of Alyeska Ski Resort. The tour includes hotel pickup and drops you back in Anchorage, making it convenient for travelers staying in the city.

Two things we love about this tour are the thoughtful combination of wildlife and scenery with local culture—especially the chance to see bears and other native animals up close—and the quality of the brewery experience, where you can relax and enjoy good food trucks alongside your beer tastings. It’s a lively, diverse outing that caters to those who want a bit of everything.

A potential consideration? The tour’s success depends on weather, especially in winter months or during salmon spawning season, which can affect the scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities. Also, since the tour is capped at 12 travelers, it remains intimate but does require advance booking.

This experience best suits nature lovers who appreciate wildlife and scenic vistas, as well as those interested in sampling local flavors through craft beer. If you love a mix of outdoor exploration and laid-back socializing, this tour hits the mark.

Key Points

• Wildlife & Scenic Highlights: Visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and see native animals, including bears.
• Breathtaking Views: Photo stops around Portage Glacier and the scenic drive through Chugach National Forest.
• Local Culture & Flavor: Enjoy a brewery tour at the base of Alyeska Ski Resort with tastings and food trucks.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup and a small group size make for a relaxed, personalized experience.
• Seasonal Surprises: Opportunities include spotting Beluga whales or witnessing the Bore Tide.
• Value for Price: Combines wildlife, scenery, and craft beer for a memorable, affordable day out.

A Deep Dive into the Bears & Beers Tour

The Itinerary: A Day of Natural Beauty and Local Flavors

Starting Point & Early Drive: We begin with hotel pickups in Anchorage, passing by the city’s historic sites before heading south toward Girdwood. The early part of the drive sets the tone, with a chance to see local neighborhoods and get a brief history lesson from your guide. Once we reach the outskirts of town, the real adventure starts as we seek out wildlife—this is where the tour’s balance of natural sights and animal encounters becomes clear.

Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center: Our first major stop is the Conservation Center, where we’ll see bears, moose, elk, and other native animals. The center is thoughtfully designed to mimic the animals’ natural habitats, and it’s a fantastic opportunity to observe Alaska’s iconic creatures up close. One reviewer, Jean R, raved about their guide Angie, who brought a lot of flare and knowledge, making the experience more engaging. Spending some time here allows you to appreciate the conservation work being done and get great photo opportunities.

Portage Glacier & Scenic Drive: Next, we hop back into the van for a scenic route that winds around Portage Glacier. Here, you’ll see high hanging glaciers and, during certain seasons, witness salmon spawning—an iconic Alaskan sight. The drive offers multiple photo stops and a chance to breathe in the crisp mountain air. The views of the glacier are stunning, and many travelers find they can’t resist taking countless photos. This part of the tour underscores why Alaska’s landscape is so captivating, with its rugged mountains and icy vistas.

Girdwood & the Brewery: After soaking in the views, we arrive at Girdwood at the base of Alyeska Ski Resort. This peaceful mountain town is perfect for relaxing and enjoying some local craft beer. The brewery tour includes tastings (you’ll need valid ID) and often features excellent food trucks, adding to the laid-back vibe. The brewery staff are friendly and knowledgeable, offering insights into the local beer scene. Guests love the chance to unwind after a busy morning with quality brews and hearty snacks.

The Experience: What Travelers Can Expect

From the moment you are picked up, the tour is designed to be both engaging and comfortable. The small group setting (maximum 12 travelers) ensures personal attention and a relaxed pace. The van provides snacks and water throughout the day, so you stay refreshed. The tour duration of around six hours allows ample time at each stop without feeling rushed.

The wildlife viewing at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is often highlighted as a highlight—seeing bears in their enclosures and learning about conservation efforts adds depth to the visit. In reviews, travelers appreciated the knowledgeable guides, with Angie receiving particular praise for her enthusiasm and local expertise.

The scenic drive to Portage Glacier offers some of the most striking views of the trip. It’s a chance to snap memorable photos of glaciers, mountains, and forests. If visiting during salmon spawning season, you might catch the remarkable sight of fish swimming upstream—a true Alaskan spectacle.

The brewery stop at Girdwood concludes the day on a relaxed note. Many visitors comment on the good quality of the beer and the lively atmosphere, especially when enjoyed with food from nearby trucks. If you’re a beer enthusiast or just looking to experience local flavors, this part of the tour is a delightful treat.

The Practical Details

Transportation & Group Size: Comfortably-sized vans with professional guides make for a smooth ride. The group is limited to 12 people, ensuring you get personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.

Timing & Duration: Starting at 10:00 am, the tour lasts about six hours, making it suitable for those who want a full but manageable day. The timing allows for good light to enjoy scenery and photography.

Cost & Value: At $199, this tour offers a well-rounded experience combining wildlife, scenery, and local culture. When you consider the admissions to the conservation center, glacier views, and brewery tastings, it’s a solid value—especially compared to booking these experiences separately.

Seasonality & Weather: While the tour offers seasonal highlights like salmon spawning or whale sightings, the core experience remains enjoyable year-round. However, weather can influence wildlife sightings and scenic views, so packing layers and checking the forecast is advised.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re looking for an all-in-one half-day trip that combines outdoor adventure with a taste of local culture, this tour is perfect. It suits visitors who value authentic wildlife encounters, appreciate scenic mountain landscapes, and want to sample Alaska’s craft beer scene. The small-group format and knowledgeable guides make it particularly appealing for travelers who enjoy personalized, intimate experiences.

It’s ideal for those who prefer a balanced itinerary—combining active wildlife viewing with relaxing social moments—without the hassle of planning multiple trips or enduring long days. Families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone curious about Alaska’s natural beauty will find this tour a worthwhile addition to their itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the tour price?
The tour costs $199 per person, which includes wildlife center admission, glacier viewing, brewery tasting, snacks, and water. It’s a package deal for a diverse experience.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately six hours, starting at 10:00 am and ending back in Anchorage. It’s a manageable half-day outing.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about a month ahead—on average 31 days in advance—to secure a spot, especially in peak seasons.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup in Anchorage, making it convenient for visitors staying downtown or nearby.

Are children or non-drinkers accommodated?
While the brewery tasting is for those with valid IDs, non-drinkers can still enjoy the tour and food options. The overall experience remains engaging for all ages.

What are the seasonal highlights?
Depending on the time of year, you might see Beluga whales or witness the Bore Tide. Salmon spawning is also a seasonal spectacle.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes, camera, and your ID for the brewery. Weather can vary, so layers are recommended.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, the tour involves some walking at the wildlife center and scenic stops, but it’s generally accessible to most travelers.

Final Thoughts

The Bears & Beers Tasting Tour offers a lively, well-rounded look at some of Alaska’s most iconic features. From the chance to see bears and glaciers to sampling local brews, it provides a satisfying blend of nature, culture, and relaxation—all in a friendly, small-group setting.

If you’re after a flexible, fun outing that captures the essence of Alaska without long drives or complex planning, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to experience the wild and cozy side of the state in a single, memorable day.

For those seeking a deeper wildlife encounter or more rugged adventure, other options might suit better. But for a balanced taste of Alaska’s natural beauty and local flavor, the Bears & Beers Tasting Tour stands out as a practical choice that keeps the experience genuine, enjoyable, and full of surprises.