Pioneer Bar, Anchorage

If you’re looking for a slice of Anchorage’s liveliest local color, Pioneer Bar is where you’ll find it. This historic hangout, dating back to the early 1900s, has served as everything from a bootlegger’s lair to a modern-day fishermen’s retreat. Locals have been pulling up a stool here since the 1950s, lured by its “almost perfect bartenders” and the promise of a good time, no cover charge required. The friendly staff keeps things moving, and while there may be a little haze in the air, the atmosphere is undeniably Alaskan: rugged, real, and ready to welcome anyone who’s game for a pint.

The entertainment here leans old-school, with a vintage jukebox in the corner as the sole soundtrack, giving an unexpected thrill each time someone picks a tune. There’s no shortage of things to do – from pool, darts, and shuffleboard to the odd round of Golden Tee – perfect if you need a break from the historic photos of fishing boats and wrecks that plaster the walls. The charm lies in these snapshots of Anchorage’s maritime past, giving this place a unique dockside vibe.

And if you’re in on a summer Saturday, you’re bound to meet a few fishermen, though don’t expect much chatter – they're here for the grog and not for small talk. Swing by for Open Mic, Karaoke, or Trivia Night, and watch as bands roll in from all over to add to the bar’s wild, eclectic energy.