Alright, so you've decided that you're going to do it. You're actually coming to Alaska for the Iditarod. But how are you getting here and where are you going to stay? We'll focus on getting to Anchorage/The Start in this post and will do Nome separately. If you're worried about the Fairbanks ReStart, we'll do that separately too so that it is only relevant in for sure Fairbanks years (hopefully never, but it's up to Mother Nature for that).
I am in no way a travel planner or expert, most of my opinions come from my experiences or tips I've gotten from others on the subject. I do not get a kick back or perks
Airlines
While it is possible to drive to Alaska, and the Al-Can Highway is an amazing adventure (I do NOT recommend driving it in a uhaul with two other people in the cab), it's not recommended. So your best option is definitely to fly. Anchorage has one airport (not counting the small plane airport, and other air strips). The Ted Stevens International Airport services flights from all major domestic airlines - but not all year. Domestic airlines that fly to Anchorage in winter are as follows: Alaska Airlines, Delta Airlines, United Airlines, and American Airlines. International flights seem to be a little trickier, I can't seem to find any that come through in March - so your best bet might actually be to fly to a major hub in the United States and transfer to a domestic flight from there to Anchorage.
Following guidelines by the "professionals" for choosing an airline is a great start, but they rarely take into consideration air MILES. Book with miles as soon as you can. The more searches happening for a specific time frame, the quicker the cost for miles goes up.
Typically Alaska Air is going to be your cheaper bet. Delta gives AK Air a run for their money, but it's been my experience that while airfare may look more expensive looking at AK Air, they don't have hidden fees. You are still able to choose your seat, your checked bag fees are not outrageous, etc. So when you look to book definitely take that into consideration. They also have a lot of great in flight features (and I am a huge fan of their snack packs). I am very biased, though. I love Alaska Air, and I haven't flown any other major carriers since 2007 (I have flown South West and Jet Blue and honestly I think I'd rather pay the extra and fly AKAir, and I'm not independently wealthy). There's a reason they're #1 in the game.
Also note that most of your "American Airline" flights actually transfer in Seattle to an Alaska Airlines flight. They are "partner" airlines and miles should be transferable. Delta is no longer partnered with Alaska Airlines, so your miles are not transferable. In my own experience I'd avoid United and American at all costs. Horrible customer service and a lot of delays and cancellations.
Ground Transportation
With Anchorage being the major hub for all of Alaska, there are plenty of options for transportation in and around the city. They have a fairly decent public transportation system with the People Mover, which are buses that service all over the city and run right by the major spots for the Ceremonial Start of the Iditarod. Several cab companies are available, as are the popular ride sharing apps. Walking can also be an option - but it can be chilly, and in a new city do you really want to hope you don't get lost?
The People Mover runs seven days a week with Monday - Friday starting at 6am and ending at 10pm, Saturdays from 8am to 8pm, and Sundays from 8am to 6pm (subject to change). Most routes have a bus stopping every 15 minutes at any given bus stop. They have an app that you can download to track your particular route, purchase bus fare, and check schedules. Fares begin at $2.00 a ride or $5.00 for a day pass. If you're planning to use this system for more than 6 days, there is an option to purchase a week pass for $26. The week pass must be used consecutively, so price it out accordingly when budgeting. If you are 60 and over, or you have a child aged 5 years to 17 years old, you can get what is called a Half Pass, which just means your fair is half the cost of the regular fare. You must have proof of age with you when you board. You must also complete an application ahead of time which you can find on their website.
For cabs there are two major players in Anchorage. There's AK Checker Cab, whose cars are orange with a black and white checkered strip on the sides. Base fare is $2.75, with $2.50 per mile after that. Their phone number is 907-644-4444. They have cabs running all hours day and night, every day of the year. The other is Alaska (or Anchorage) Yellow Dispatch, which you can guess is a bright yellow cab. Base fare is $2.75, with $2.50 per mile. Phone number is 222-2222. Neither cab company gets stellar reviews, and having working with both of them a LOT when I worked in Anchorage I can definitely say they're both going to be hit or miss as for quality. I've never ridden with Checker Cab, but Yellow Cab drivers typically take you the longest way possible. Both cabs charge by the cab, not by the rider (in other parts of Alaska it's per person, be aware).
Uber runs in Anchorage, and can range from 10 - 30 dollars (or more) depending on how far you have to go. I know in the states for the same distance/time it's less, but, welcome to Alaska. Lyft, also, runs in Anchorage and the fares are the same as Uber. Both services are wonderful IMO, but it's my understanding that there are more Uber drivers in Anchorage than Lyft. I typically have my own vehicle, so my experiences with either company are not in Anchorage but are outside of Alaska (I prefer Lyft).
Speaking of driving your own car, there is always the option of rental cars. All major rental car companies operate in Anchorage. I won't go through the list as they're fairly standard. You can typically get a good deal through Expedia, Orbitz, or other travel sites... or by contacting the local rental car offices directly.
Hotels
Anchorage is one of the major hubs for tourism so there are a lot of lodging options. Hotels range from Hostel to Five Star. There are many great options for every budget and I'll highlight the ones that make the most sense for Iditarod and I'll warn you about the ones to stay away from no matter what the savings are. These are, again, my own opinions and experiences unless otherwise noted. I do not get any perks for recommendations, and I am not trying to be malicious when I state which hotels I would avoid at all cost.
The Lakefront Anchorage - located just minutes from the airport and right on one of the lakes used for float and ski plane landings, the Lakefront is also the official hotel of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. Located on Spenard Road it may seem like not the best location, but for Iditarod fans it's prime real estate. The hotel bustles with activity for three weeks before the race begins and while it goes on. It houses volunteer registration, Race Communications, Race Merchandise, and is home to out of town mushers and their handlers as well as many of the volunteers. During the race it's also the drop off location for dogs returning from the trail hang out at the hotel waiting for transport home (handlers are typically on hand to bring the dogs home). This hotel is on the pricier end mainly due to the fact that it IS the official hotel and rooms are at a premium. However, the proximity to the airport, Iditarod dedicated shuttles, and all the official activity make it almost a bargain. There is a restaurant and bar on property (GREAT food), and so much people watching! Rooms right now look to be averaging $120 a night. Closer to Iditarod there seem to be specials of $99 rooms, but that's based solely on availability.
Alex Hotel & Suites - Just down the road from Lakefront is the cheaper option of Alex hotel. It is within walking distance to the Iditarod official hotel, though sidewalks aren't always well maintained and can be slippery. It's within walking distance of several restaurants, including the famed Gwennie's, and offers a complimentary continental breakfast. Rooms look to average around $100 a night. Watch for specials, they can cut down on the price significantly.
Courtyard Anchorage Airport - Run by Marriott, the Courtyard Anchorage Airport is also within walking distance of the Lakefront (it's practically across the street). Several mushers have been known to stay in this hotel, so you're still within the action. There are no dining options in this hotel, but it is within walking distance of several places to eat as well as allows for dining delivery. Average rate looks to be about $115, but you can snag a pretty good deal if you're willing to book a room with no refund available should you cancel. You can also use Marriott points.
If you're more concerned about being closer to the downtown action for the Ceremonial Start (and Fur Rondy events), then there are several options within walking distance of 4th and D.
The Hilton Anchorage - is just one street down from the start, in fact you'll probably exit your hotel to find dog teams setting up for the race. The Hilton also offers great views of Anchorage, the Inlet, and the mountains. The Hilton holds a bar and a cafe inside, but is within walking distance of some great places to eat as well. This is a higher end hotel with rates starting around $140 a night during Fur Rondy/Iditarod. If you're a Hilton member, you may be able to luck out on deals for extra points or discounts.
Aviator Hotel Anchorage - If I had to stay downtown for the Start of the Iditarod, this is probably the place I'd stay. While the entrance is located on 3rd Avenue, they have many rooms that look out onto 4th Avenue RIGHT. WHERE. THE. ACTION. IS. They even have Iditarod packages specifically for the rooms that give the best view. In 2018 the rate was $148 a night. If you can't swing that, you can book a room that does not overlook 4th avenue for much less. Both packages come with breakfast for two, and the 4th avenue package also gives you two tickets to a VIP Start Party! Wow! If I wasn't a volunteer working the trail that day I might be booking one up myself!
Sheraton Anchorage Hotel & Spa - A little further away from the starting line is the Sheraton on 6th avenue. The hotel is close to where the teams turn off of 4th avenue onto Cordova. That area of the trail is a great spot to watch the teams go by, watch teams make the sharp corner is exciting and fun and the barricade is loosened more there. The price tag is the biggest one of all the hotels I've recommended so far, but it's part of Marriott so if you have points it might be worth it. The Sheraton has spa amenaties on site, as well as two restaurants and a starbucks. Rates average around $160 a night.
Comfort Inn Ship Creek - Futher out of the way on Ship Creek is the Comfort Inn. The price is much better here, you're close to the Ulu Factory and it's not too terribly far for a walk to downtown Anchorage (if I can make the walk, anyone can). This hotel sits across from the Anchorage Railroad depot, but there shouldn't be too much noise in March. A few mushing teams typically stay here (Comfort Inn has sponsored SPKennel in the past, for example). It's a very nice hotel, and bonus you can bring your pets ($15 charge per pet, up to three pets)! Average rate starts at $95. It's a bargain. No restaurant on site, but there are many within walking distance and you can always uber it OR you can order in.
The Westmark Hotel and The Hotel Captain Cook are also a little out of the way and a little spendy, but if you're looking for a very nice stay either one of those could do the trick.
If you're willing to drive/ride/bus to Downtown or you're planning on watching the Ceremonial Start along the trail but not necessarily downtown you can typically get a better deal.
Inlet Tower Hotel & Suites - ETA: I can't believe I forgot about the Inlet Tower. This hotel hosts several top name mushers, so dog trucks can be seen from the parking lot. They also sponsor meet and greets with their biggest named guests - typically Jeff King and Mitch Seavey who have seven Iditarod championships between them. Rooms start around $109 a night, which is a sweet deal. You'll need to have transportation to the start of the Iditarod, but it could be worth it if you get to "stalk" some mushers. They do have a pub onsite as well as a coffee shop.
Comfort Inn Midtown - Off of International Airport Way, it's not far to drive or ride to anywhere you want to watch the start from. Rooms average around $100 a night, and it's close by many different restaurants.
SpringHill Suites at University Lake - My choice for hotels when I come up for Iditarod is this hotel. It recently changed hands, however, and so it's a little pricier than in years past (boo) but it's within walking distance of where I trail guard for the Ceremonial Start, which is one of the most popular places to watch from that isn't downtown. Rooms are now going for about $130 a night, and come with free continental breakfast. It's not within walking distance of many places to eat, but it does allow for food delivery.
Hotels to Avoid
Please note that I do not do this maliciously. I have nothing against the employees or owners. Just my experience, the experience of others, and... well... news and police reports.
Mush Inn Motel - Yeah, the name is PERFECT for the Iditarod, but do not be fooled. Just looking at the building could make you contract some sort of parasite. This is a well known establishment that has rooms you can rent by the hour if you get my meaning. I mean, if that's your thing, then go for it I suppose, but not if you're wanting a good night sleep. The TripAdvisor reviews back me up - and are actually pretty entertaining to read should you be looking for a few laughs.
Puffin Inn - I have friends that swear by this hotel, but guys they have another shooting or knifing in the parking lot every other night it seems. Just not a very safe place. Another one that has a lot of ladies of the night and drugs going on. Of the hotels that I say not to use, this one is probably the one I worry about least, but if you DO stay at the Puffin, don't let me know. The TripAdvisor reviews are all over the map, but most agree that this isn't the best option.
Black Angus Inn - The midtown version of the Mush Inn. So much crime here, how do they even stay open?! Bed bugs are reported, and I bet those aren't the only infestation you'd get. There are bars on the outside of the windows, my guess is to make the repeat offender criminals feel at home. TripAdvisor reviews are terrifying for this one. Don't book there. Just, don't.
There are many other hotel options in Anchorage. I went with ones that make most sense for getting to the Iditarod events. I did not include Wasilla, Big Lake, or Willow. I may look into those for the ReStart blog I plan to write, but really with all the shuttle and bus options (that I will address for the ReStart later) I'd recommend staying in Anchorage and busing up the road if need be.
Have a favorite hotel I didn't put on my list - or one that should be on the AVOID list? Let me know in the comments.
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