Support

49th State Brewing - Anchorage

About

The 49th State Brewing establishment is not just a restaurant, but a real gastronomic and cultural attraction of the city of Anchorage. Located in the historic center, this brewery is famous for its unique atmosphere, combining the adventurous spirit of Alaska and the coziness of a modern pub. Here they brew excellent craft beer using glacial water and local ingredients, making every sip truly authentic.

49th State Brewing. Source: Kupi.com Binoculars

Visitors are attracted here not only by the cuisine but also by the opportunity to touch pop culture: on the premises is the famous replica of the bus from the movie "Into the Wild," which has become a popular photo zone. Additionally, the restaurant boasts one of the best outdoor terraces in the city, from where, in clear weather, breathtaking views of Cook Inlet and mountain ranges open up.

This place is a must-visit for those traveling across the USA in search of true northern flavor. Here you can try exotic dishes, such as a yak meat burger, and feel the hospitality of the "Last Frontier".

Contacts

To conveniently plan your visit and book tables, use the following contact details for the establishment.

Address 717 W 3rd Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501, USA
Phone +1 907-277-7727
Official Website 49thstatebrewing.com
On Map Google Maps

What to Do

The main thing to do at 49th State Brewing is, of course, tasting. Be sure to order a tasting set (flight) of their signature beer to appreciate the variety of flavors: from the light blonde "McCarthy Stout" to saturated IPAs and stouts. In the food menu, dishes with local flavor deserve special attention: try the famous yak meat burger or the freshest Alaskan seafood, including king crab.

Do not miss the opportunity to go out onto the spacious rooftop terrace. This is one of the best observation decks in the city center, where you can watch the tides in Cook Inlet and, weather permitting, see the majestic Mount Denali (formerly McKinley) or the Sleeping Lady (Mount Susitna).

For film and literature lovers, a photo session at the "Magic Bus" (Magic Bus 142) will be a highlight. It is an exact replica of the bus used in the filming of the movie "Into the Wild". You can go inside, read the story of Christopher McCandless, and see memorabilia associated with this touching story.

Getting There

The 49th State Brewing establishment is located in the very heart of the city, at 717 W 3rd Ave. Thanks to its central location, it is very easy to reach on foot from most major downtown hotels. The coastline can serve as a landmark: the restaurant is just a few blocks from the water.

If you are traveling from remote areas, it is most convenient to use a taxi or ridesharing services (Uber, Lyft). For those traveling by car, there is street parking and paid lots nearby, however, finding a free spot can be difficult during peak hours.

Public transport is also available: the Anchorage central transit center is within walking distance, where many bus routes of the People Mover system arrive.

History & Facts

The history of 49th State Brewing began not in Anchorage itself, but near Denali National Park, where the first brewery was founded. The success of the enterprise allowed the owners to expand and open a flagship restaurant in Alaska's largest city, occupying a historic building that previously belonged to the Elks fraternity (BPOE). This monumental structure was carefully restored, preserving the spirit of old Alaska, but was updated with a modern interior.

One of the most famous historical "highlights" of this place is the connection with the cult film "Into the Wild". It is here that an exact copy of the famous "Magic Bus" used in the filming is kept. The original bus, in which Christopher McCandless lived, remained in the wilderness for a long time and was a dangerous lure for tourists until it was evacuated by helicopter. The replica installed at the brewery allows you to safely touch this history.

The name of the brewery itself is a reference to Alaska's status as the 49th state to join the union. The interior and menu of the establishment constantly emphasize pride in local traditions, resources, and the unyielding northern character.

Time Needed

For a full visit to 49th State Brewing, it is recommended to allocate from 1.5 to 2 hours. This time is enough to leisurely browse the menu, try several varieties of signature beer, and enjoy main dishes of local cuisine.

If you plan a visit in good weather and want to take a seat on the outdoor terrace overlooking the bay, or wish to take photos with the legendary bus from the film, it is worth allowing a little more time, as there may be a wait for tables during popular hours.

Working Hours

The establishment is open to visitors daily, offering a convenient schedule for both early lunch and late dinner. Please note the current opening hours:

  • Monday — Saturday: from 11:00 to 23:00
  • Sunday: from 11:00 to 22:00

The kitchen usually closes a little earlier than the bar, so for a full dinner, it is recommended to arrive no later than an hour before closing.

Nearby

The brewery's location in downtown makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the historic city center. After a hearty lunch, you can take a fascinating walk: literally a few minutes' walk away are key monuments and historic buildings telling the story of the state's formation.

It is especially pleasant that you will not need transport — all the objects listed below are located within a radius of less than one kilometer, which allows you to easily visit them on foot, enjoying the fresh bay air.

Attraction Distance (km)
Federal Building 0.1
Historic Anchorage City Hall 0.2
Eisenhower Statehood Monument 0.3
Alaska Railroad No 1 0.4
Balto's Statue 0.4
Train Engine 556 0.7
Ship Creek boat docks 0.9

What to see in closed cities

Reached the end of the page?

That means the route is fully explored