The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (AWCC) is located in Portage Valley and is surrounded by the breathtaking Chugach Mountain Range and Turnagain Arm Inlet. Come enjoy over 200 acres of animal enclosures by touring our scenic 1.5-mile loop, accessible by foot, by bike, or by car, while learning about our resident wildlife. We look forward to seeing you at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and hope you enjoy your visit!
Operating Hours, Open Rain or Shine:
Guests will have one hour to enjoy the center if they come at the advertised closing time.
January 10 am to 3 pm (4-day operations: Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday)
February 10 am to 4 pm (4-day operations: Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday)
March & April 10 am to 5 pm (Open 7 days per week)
May, June, July, August 10 am to 5 pm (Open 7 days per week)
September & October 10 am to 5 pm (Open 7 days per week)
November 10 am to 4 pm (4-day operations: Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday)
December 10 am to 3 pm (4-day operations: Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday)
For Holiday Break we will be closed December 24, December 25 and January 1.
CLOSED: Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
OPEN: All other holidays.
Note: Hours are subject to change without notice due to unforeseen circumstances.
AWCC’s 1.5 mile loop is perfect for adventure in the winter months as well! Unique ways to explore the Center while enjoying the wildlife in the winter include gliding on your cross country skis, riding your fat bike, or utilizing AWCC’s complimentary kick-sled rentals. You are also welcome to walk or drive the 1.5 mile loop around the sanctuary. Please note: ice grippers are recommended while walking during the winter months.
Admission tickets to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center do not sell out. Tickets can be purchased online or upon arrival the day of.
Get Here
Directions:
Follow AK Route 1 (The Seward Highway) South for about 47 miles from Anchorage, past Girdwood. We’re located just before the Portage Glacier road turnoff on your right at Mile 79 of the Seward Highway!
Get Around
Prices:
Adult - Alaska Rate
$15 per person
Adult
$17 per person
Student
$13Ages 7 - 17
Seniors
$15Ages 65+
Military
$15US Military ID required
Children
Free6 and under
Extra Learning Opportunities:
Exclusive Walk on the Wild Side Tour (year round) – 1.5 Hours (10 person Maximum)
$100.00 per person (must be 10 or older).
To reserve winter tours, please call 907-783-0058 or email.
Commercial photography and filming is prohibited at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.
All film, video and still photography produced on the grounds of the AWCC for commercial purposes requires a written agreement with AWCC and a fee paid based on service desired. All film, video and photography taken within AWCC and used for commercial purposes without authorization is subject to legal action. AWCC prohibits the flight and usage of drones above the Center’s property. If you are interested in commercial filming or photography, please email events@alaskawildlife.org.
Virtual Tours and Field Trips are conducted by AWCC staff only. Whether fee-based or done free of charge, Virtual Tours & Field Trips must be booked and approved by the education department. Please call 907-783-0058 or email education@alaskawildlife.org to schedule a Virtual Tour or Virtual Field Trip.