The Lakefront Anchorage
About The Lakefront Anchorage
The Lakefront Anchorage is a 248-room hotel on Spenard Road, on the shore of Lake Spenard next to the Lake Hood Seaplane Base. It is about 1 mile from the airport and about 10 minutes from downtown Anchorage.
What sets it apart is the lakeside setting, where guests can watch floatplanes take off and land, and its role as the headquarters of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. It suits travelers with early flights, floatplane trips or a short stay in Anchorage.
At a glance
Highlights
- Next to Lake Hood Seaplane Base
- About 1 mile from the airport
- Floatplane views from the deck
- Iditarod headquarters hotel
- Free airport shuttle
Amenities
Rooms and suites
- Renovated rooms with two queen beds
- Mini fridge, coffee maker and flat-screen TV
- Air conditioning and free WiFi
- Pet-friendly rooms on request
Restaurants and bars
The hotel is not all-inclusive. Meals are paid as you go, and room service is available.
- The Flying Machine: American breakfast year-round and dinner in summer, with lake views
- Fancy Moose Lounge: local seafood and sandwiches for lunch and dinner
- Lakeside deck: summer drinks and meals while floatplanes fly by
Beach, pools and spa
There is no beach, pool or spa. The hotel has a fitness center.
Activities and entertainment
The main show is the floatplane traffic on the lakes outside, best seen from the deck in summer. Floatplane flightseeing and fly-in fishing trips leave from Lake Hood nearby. The hotel has been the operational headquarters of the Iditarod since it opened, so it is busy in early March.
Who it’s best for
- Best for: travelers who want to be close to the airport, floatplane fans and short stays before or after a trip.
- Consider another resort if: you want a pool or spa, or to walk to downtown Anchorage.
Getting there from Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport
Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) is about 1 mile away, a drive of about 5 minutes. The hotel runs a free airport shuttle at scheduled times, subject to availability, plus summer service to downtown and the train depot.
If you prefer not to wait for the shuttle, book a private transfer in advance so a driver meets you at arrivals and takes you straight to the hotel.
Good to know
- A daily resort fee applies
- Self-parking is free
- Dogs and cats are allowed in some rooms for a fee
- Floatplanes can be noisy in the evening, but traffic usually stops around 10pm
Location of The Lakefront Anchorage
FAQ about The Lakefront Anchorage
Where is The Lakefront Anchorage?
At 4800 Spenard Road, next to the Lake Hood Seaplane Base.
How far is the airport?
About 1 mile, or about 5 minutes by car.
Is there a free airport shuttle?
Yes, at scheduled times and subject to availability.
How many rooms does it have?
248 rooms.
Does it have a pool?
No. There is a fitness center but no pool or spa.
What restaurants are there?
The Flying Machine and the Fancy Moose Lounge, plus a lakeside deck in summer.
Is parking free?
Yes. Self-parking is free.
Are pets allowed?
Dogs and cats are allowed in some rooms for a fee.
Is there a resort fee?
Yes. A daily fee applies.
How far is downtown Anchorage?
About 10 minutes by car.

