Girdwood Museum
Discover Girdwood's rich history, from gold rush tales to its iconic ski resort, through engaging exhibits and a charming gift shop.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed browsing
Girdwood Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed browsing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Girdwood's rich history, from gold rush tales to its iconic ski resort, through engaging exhibits and a charming gift shop.
"Super informative and great display. Bought some nice presents and the view cannot be beat."
Combine with Tram Ride
Take the Aerial Tram for stunning views and learn natural history on the way up! :mountain_cableway:
Gift Shop Treasures
Find affordable, locally made souvenirs. Staff are charming and fluent in English! :gift:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Girdwood's People
See captivating photos and stories of the individuals who built and shaped Girdwood's unique history.
Alyeska Resort History
Uncover the evolution of the famous Alyeska Resort, a cornerstone of Girdwood's identity.
Local Gifts & Souvenirs
Browse a selection of unique, locally made gifts and souvenirs in the museum's charming gift shop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Girdwood's Rich History
Beyond the Museum
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Combine with Tram Ride
Take the Aerial Tram for stunning views and learn natural history on the way up! :mountain_cableway:
Gift Shop Treasures
Find affordable, locally made souvenirs. Staff are charming and fluent in English! :gift:
Small but Informative
The museum is small, but packed with interesting local history and photos. :books:
Ski Town Car Culture
See unique 'ski town beater' cars that tell a story of Girdwood's past. :car:
Tips
from all over the internet
Combine with Tram Ride
Take the Aerial Tram for stunning views and learn natural history on the way up! :mountain_cableway:
Gift Shop Treasures
Find affordable, locally made souvenirs. Staff are charming and fluent in English! :gift:
Small but Informative
The museum is small, but packed with interesting local history and photos. :books:
Ski Town Car Culture
See unique 'ski town beater' cars that tell a story of Girdwood's past. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Girdwood Museum for its informative exhibits on local history and the people of Girdwood, often highlighting the charming gift shop with affordable, locally made items. While some note its small size, the stunning views from the nearby Alyeska Resort and the overall experience of Girdwood are consistently lauded as highlights.
"Okay this is an excellent place to learn the history of Girdwood. The people are highlighted with many pictures. There are lots of surprises here to enjoy and lots of special gifts to buy."
Rebecca Crelley
"The staff at Alyeska lodge go to the extra mile to make our stay so fun and enjoyable for everyone. Their service extends to the members of our family not staying with us here in the lodge. This is like our home away from home where everyone is welcome! Our tram ride up was gorgeous, and learning some natural history on the way was a plus. The view here is amazing all the way around. Being able to play in the snow at the glacier viewing level was such a joy. Going to the bar for delightfully reinterpreted desserts was very memorable. Even more memorable were Marnie and Kasey, who work in the Seven Glaciers restaurant. They were funny and nice and let us come in, even though the restaurant was almost closed. We aren't accustomed to so much sunlight we wanted to keep having fun! Thank you! On an earlier visit to The Roundhouse we found the gift shop was well stocked with affordable, locally made souvenirs; the young women working there were really charming and fluent in English. It was a real treat to meet some nice ladies from Kazakhstan! This truly is a world-class destination."
Katherine Shields
"The museum is quite small and is combined with a gift shop. It provides a little bit of information about the history of the Alyeska Resort, which is somewhat interesting. The views from the top though are very pretty. I would recommend taking the Aerial Tram or hiking up to get a look."
Gabriella
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Girdwood Museum is located in Girdwood, about a 40-mile drive south of Anchorage. You can drive yourself, or look into local shuttle services. Many visitors combine a trip to the museum with a visit to the nearby Alyeska Resort.
Parking is generally available near the Girdwood Museum, especially if you are visiting the Alyeska Resort area. Weekdays tend to have less competition for spots.
Absolutely! The Girdwood Museum makes for an excellent day trip from Anchorage. You can easily spend a few hours exploring the museum and then enjoy the scenic beauty of Girdwood.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Museum hours can vary, so it's always best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Admission to the Girdwood Museum is generally affordable, with some sources indicating it's combined with a gift shop. Check their official channels for current pricing.
For the Girdwood Museum itself, advance booking is typically not required. However, if you plan to visit the Alyeska Resort for activities like the Aerial Tram, booking in advance might be recommended, especially during peak season.
Information on accessibility for the Girdwood Museum can be found on their official website. Many historical sites are working to improve accessibility for all visitors.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Girdwood Museum features exhibits on the town's history, with a focus on the people who lived and worked there, and the development of the Alyeska Resort. You'll find many historical photographs and stories. +1
Many visitors find the Girdwood Museum to be an informative and enjoyable stop, especially for those interested in local history and the story behind the Alyeska Resort. It's a great way to understand the town's roots. +1
The views from the area around the Girdwood Museum, particularly if you take the Aerial Tram up from Alyeska Resort, are described as amazing and gorgeous, offering panoramic vistas. +1
While the museum itself is at a certain elevation, hiking is a popular activity in Girdwood. You can hike up to the Alyeska Resort area, where the museum is located, or explore trails that offer stunning views.
Yes, the museum showcases unique exhibits like 'ski town beater' cars, offering a quirky look at the vehicles that were essential in Girdwood's past.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Girdwood Museum is located near the Alyeska Resort, which offers several dining options, including the Seven Glaciers restaurant. Some visitors have enjoyed delightful desserts and memorable service there.
Girdwood offers a range of dining experiences, from casual burgers to fine dining. You might find hearty Alaskan fare and creative desserts.
📸 📸 Photography
The most stunning photo opportunities are from the top of the Aerial Tram at Alyeska Resort, offering incredible mountain and valley views. The museum itself also has historical photos that are great for context. +1
Photography policies can vary by museum. It's best to check for signage or ask a staff member if photography is permitted inside the Girdwood Museum.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider taking the Aerial Tram with kids for spectacular views and the chance to play in the snow at the glacier viewing level. The gift shop also offers a chance for children to pick out a small, affordable souvenir.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Pair your museum visit with the Alyeska Resort's Aerial Tram for stunning scenery, or explore the charming town of Girdwood. It’s a perfect way to break up a longer journey and gain a deeper appreciation for the region.
⛷️ Ski Enthusiasts
Many visitors note that weekdays at Alyeska often mean minimal lift lines, allowing for more time on the mountain.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Alyeska Resort Connection
This connection means that while the museum itself might be small, its context is rich. You can learn about the pioneers, the ski enthusiasts, and the visionaries who transformed Girdwood into a hub for winter sports and tourism. The exhibits often highlight the people who were instrumental in shaping both the town and the resort.
For those interested in the history of skiing in Alaska or the evolution of resort towns, the Girdwood Museum provides a valuable perspective. It’s a place where you can connect the dots between the natural landscape and human endeavor.
Girdwood's Unique Character
One of the more quirky aspects highlighted is the 'ski town beater' car culture. These vehicles, often older 4WD models, were essential for navigating Girdwood's snowy roads and trails. The museum sometimes features these hardy machines, offering a tangible link to the practicalities of life in a remote, snow-dependent community.
Beyond the historical artifacts, the museum also serves as a gateway to understanding the vibrant local culture. The gift shop, often praised for its affordable, locally made souvenirs, is a testament to the creativity and craftsmanship found within the community.
Experiencing Girdwood's Scenery
From the top, visitors can experience the thrill of playing in the snow, even during seasons when snow might be scarce at lower elevations. The views are consistently described as amazing and gorgeous, making it a photographer's paradise.
For the more adventurous, Girdwood offers numerous hiking opportunities. Trails wind through lush forests and ascend to alpine meadows, providing different perspectives of the dramatic landscape. Whether you're exploring the museum or the wilderness, Girdwood promises an unforgettable Alaskan experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit