12 Unique Things to Do in Palmer, Alaska: History, Hops, and Farm-to-Table Dining in the Heart of Alaska’s Mat-Su Valley
Planning a visit to Palmer, Alaska? This blog post shares the top things to do and see while Exploring this charming town, just 45-minutes outside of Anchorage!
During my recent trip to Alaska, I had the incredible opportunity to spend several days in Palmer, a charming little town nestled in the heart of the Mat-Su Valley.
Part of why I love Palmer is because of both its rich agricultural history and vibrant local food and beverage scene. But Palmer is also the perfect launchpad for exploring the stunning landscapes of the Matanuska-Susitna Valley and nearby Hatcher Pass.
I worked closely with local guides and businesses to make sure I experienced the best of what Palmer has to offer, from its unique animal farms to the epic hiking trails and quirky shops that give this town its unique flavor. I’m so happy to be able to share my own guide on the best things to do in Palmer, Alaska after spending multiple days exploring the town and surrounding area.
Whether you’re planning a road trip through Alaska or searching for a fun day-trip destination from Anchorage, Palmer is a town that’s perfect for independent travelers, adventure seekers, and history buffs!
In this blog post, I’ll share my favorite things to do in Palmer, Alaska – activities that helped me connect with the local community and see the town through the eyes of those who call it home. Let’s jump right into the top things to do and see in Palmer, Alaska!
Some of the activities mentioned in this post were hosted experiences in partnership with local businesses and DMOs such as Mat-Su Convention and Visitors Bureau and Palmer-based Revel Treks + Tours (in partnership with Visit Anchorage and TBEX). All opinions and reviews are my own. This post also contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something, I may earn a commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Should you choose to book through any of my links, thank you so much!
Feed Reindeer, Alpacas, and Moose at the Reindeer Farm
Visiting the Reindeer Farm in Palmer was easily one of the most enjoyable parts of my Palmer trip! I went with a group of friends, and we all had an absolute blast from the moment we arrived.
One of the highlights was getting up close to the reindeer, who were all so gentle and eager to be fed. The little ones were so incredibly adorable! Our guide gave us plenty of time to ask questions, feed the reindeer, and take photos!
There were plenty of other animals to see, too, including alpacas, Highland cows, and even a bison! But the real star of the show was Lucy the Moose—getting to feed her was such a cool and unexpected treat! It’s quite rare to interact with animals like this—moose can be extremely dangerous to encounter in the wild. It was awesome to have a special moment up close with Lucy to appreciate her beauty and grandeur!
A helpful tip if you’re planning to go: definitely bring shoes you don’t mind getting a bit dirty, especially if the ground is wet or if it rained within a day or two of your planned tour. It’s a working farm, so expect a little mud here and there—it’s all part of the charm.
Whether you’re traveling solo, with a group of friends, or with loved ones, the Reindeer Farm offers a unique way to connect with and learn about wildlife in Alaska. I’d definitely recommend a visit if you’re searching for an off-the-beaten-path experience!
Price: Starting at $16 for a 1-hour guided tour
Location: 5561 S Bodenburg Loop Rd, Palmer, AK 99645
Go on a Guided “OXperience” Tour at the Musk Ox Farm
The Musk Ox Farm is a nonprofit dedicated to preserving and promoting education about musk oxen, which have roamed the Arctic region for thousands of years! Visiting the Musk Ox Farm is one of the top things to do in Palmer, so I obviously had to make a stop there to see it for myself during my trip. And it surely didn’t disappoint!
The farm’s mission is to ensure the survival of these incredible creatures while educating visitors about the history of musk oxen in the Arctic region, as well as discuss their ecological importance.
Prior to visiting the Musk Ox Farm, I admittedly didn’t know anything about musk oxen so I gained quite an education during my 1-hour guided “OXperience” tour!
On the tour, I learned so much about musk oxen and how the farm is working to breed them to ensure their preservation. One of my favorite parts about visiting the Musk Ox Farm was getting to feel a sample of the incredible musk ox underwool, known as qiviut. It’s probably the softest thing I’ve ever felt in my entire life, no joke!
I loved that the tour felt intimate, and I had plenty of opportunities to take photos, ask questions, and even see a few baby musk oxen acting playful and silly with each other! The farm is just a short drive from downtown Palmer, so it makes for a great stop before or after enjoying the charming downtown area.
Price: Starting at $14 for a 1-hour guided tour
Location: 12850 E Archie Rd, Palmer, AK
Learn About Local History at the Palmer Museum and Visitor Center
No visit to Palmer would be complete without stopping by the Palmer Museum and Visitor Center, located right downtown. At the museum, you’ll learn about how the town of Palmer developed through the decades with the fur trade, the railroad, gold mining, and the 1935 Matanuska Colony Project. Plus, with dozens of artifacts and historical photos on display, you’ll definitely learn something new after visiting the Palmer Museum!
The museum is in a cozy log cabin right in the heart of town, and it’s a great place to start if you’re looking to understand what makes Palmer so unique. It’s not a huge museum, but that’s part of its charm—you can take your time exploring without feeling rushed.
The Visitor Center also has a beautiful garden outside that’s worth walking through in good weather—in the summer, you’ll find brightly colored flowers and giant vegetables!
Learn more about the Palmer Museum and check the museum’s current hours on the Palmer Museum website.
Price: Free!
Location: 723 S Valley Way, Palmer, Alaska 99645
Sip On a Taster Flight at Bleeding Heart Brewery
When I was in Palmer, stopping by Bleeding Heart Brewery turned out to be one of those unexpected delights that made my trip even better. I love finding cozy breweries and taprooms during my travels, which is likely why I stopped for a drink at Bleeding Heart not once but twice!
The place has such a cool, quirky vibe—it’s tucked away near an old water tower and has plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. Couches, stools, picnic tables, you name it. The seating options are plentiful and there are also spots where you can stand if it’s busy! At the front of the building, there’s also a shop with locally-inspired goods where you can “sip and shop”.
The best part for me was tasting several of their craft beverages in the form of a flight—their drinks have some of the most creative names I’ve come across! I ended up choosing “Mommy Issues,” a fruit sour that was tart and refreshing, “Sedna,” a smooth traditional mead with hints of tropical honey, “Robber Baron Root Beer,” an old-fashioned sarsaparilla that tasted like my childhood, and “Bad Vibes Only,” a crisp, dry cider. Each one was unique, and you could tell they put a lot of care into their craft.
Bleeding Heart Brewery‘s motto is “drink like you give a damn!”, which is easy to do when the drinks are all so delicious! If you’re exploring Palmer, I’d definitely recommend stopping by here for an afternoon drink.
Location: 562 South Denali St, Palmer, AK 99645
See the Giant Cabbages at the Alaska State Fair (Seasonal)
While the timing of my trip was just a bit too late to enjoy the Alaska State Fair, it’s certainly one of the best things to do in Palmer if you’re visiting during mid- to late-August.
One of the main reasons to visit the Alaska State Fair is to see the giant vegetables—specifically the annual giant cabbage weigh-off! This event alone brings visitors from all across the state (and even from the lower 48)! Plus, the Cabbage Fairies make a special appearance during the weigh-off and it’s an awesome event to witness.
Even if giant vegetables aren’t your thing, the Alaska State Fair has tons of delicious food offerings, fun festival rides, local vendors, and more. You can easily spend a whole day having fun at the fair, which makes it a great thing to do in Palmer if the event dates coincide with your visit!
Price: Admission rates vary, starting at $16 for adults
Location: 2075 Glenn Hwy, Palmer, Alaska 99645
Search for Cryptids at the Bigfoot Art Gallery
Bigfoot Art Gallery is a quirky little spot on the edge of downtown Palmer with an interesting selection of cryptid-themed merchandise. It’s actually a custom framing shop where you can get artwork professionally framed, but part of the shop is also dedicated to Bigfoot, the Yeti, and other creatures! There are even masks and interactive exhibits you can experience.
Not only can they frame your artwork here and give you a history lesson about Bigfoot, but you can also purchase guitars here! It’s truly the quirkiest spot in town, and it’s definitely worth stopping at on your way in or out of Palmer.
Location: 1088 S Colony Way, Palmer, Alaska 99645
Indulge in farm-to-table fare at Feather & Flour
When it comes to restaurants in Palmer, Alaska, there’s one that stands out as the best: Feather & Flour. This place is an absolute gem—I’d argue that this restaurant alone is worth a trip to Palmer from Anchorage. If you’re planning a trip to the Mat-Su Valley, do yourself a favor and make sure to plan time in your schedule to have a meal here.
Feather & Flour is nestled in an unassuming little house in downtown Palmer. If it weren’t for the sign outside, you might not even realize it’s a restaurant! The farm-to-table nature of the restaurant really captures the heart and soul of Palmer and its agricultural roots, effortlessly blending local flavors, culinary artistry, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The menu changes regularly (sometimes even weekly!) based on season and fresh ingredients, so some of the dishes I had may or may not be available when you visit. I started with the tomato meze, a vibrant and fresh burst of flavors that immediately set the tone for the evening. The broccolini, cheddar, and potato soup was creamy and comforting, with a perfect balance of sharp cheddar and earthy greens. For the main course, the beef tenderloin was melt-in-your-mouth tender, cooked to perfection, and paired with mashed potatoes and microgreens. I finished the meal by trying two desserts—the banana pudding (my favorite!) and peanut butter chocolate cake—along with a smooth and satisfying espresso martini to cap off the night.
It’s important to note that Feather & Flour has limited opening hours/days, so you should check ahead before you plan to visit and make a reservation, if possible. Check their website here for the latest menus and hours.
Price: 3-course dinner starting at $65 per person (dinner served on Friday and Saturday evenings) and brunch offered on Sundays and Mondays (price varies based on menu)
Location: 927 S Cobb Street, Palmer, Alaska 99645
Learn About Life in Palmer During the 1930s at the Colony House Museum
Visiting the Colony House Museum is one of the most unique things to do in Palmer, especially if you’re a history buff (like me!). The museum tells the story of the Matanuska Colony Project, a New Deal-era experiment that brought hundreds of families from the Midwest to the Mat-Su Valley in the 1930s in an effort to open Alaska up to settlement and start a farming colony after the displacement of farming families during the Great Depression.
The Colony House Museum gives visitors a glimpse into the daily lives of those early Palmer residents that were brought up to Alaska from the lower 48 as part of the Matanuska Colony Project experiment.
The house itself is one of the few remaining colony homes that still stands in its original location, which makes it even more special. It’s been carefully preserved to look just as it would have back then through an initiative led by the Palmer Historical Society, complete with period-correct furniture and artifacts, giving visitors a real sense of stepping back in time.
During my visit, the museum was unfortunately closed but I did peek inside the windows and walk around the property while listening to my guide Kierre from Revel Treks + Tours share the history of the Matanuska Colony Project. Even just standing outside, I felt like I’d been given a window into a very different era.
The Colony House Museum is open in the afternoon Wednesdays through Saturdays during the months of June through August. For the most up-to-date information about operating hours and off-season tours, visit the Palmer Historical Society website.
Price: $2 entrance fee for adults
Location: 316 E Elmwood Ave, Palmer, AK 99645
Hit the trails and get outside
Palmer is the perfect basecamp for adventurers looking to hit the trails in and around the Mat-Su Valley. I was fortunate to be able to enjoy some epic hiking trails during my visit to Palmer—even if you’re only visiting for the day as a day trip from Anchorage or another nearby town, there are plenty of great hikes that can easily be done in half a day! Here are a few hikes that you should definitely consider during your visit to Palmer:
- The Bodenburg Butte (easy / moderate) – this is a shorter, out-and-back style trail that definitely packs a punch, located just a quick 10-minute drive from downtown Palmer (it’s right near the Reindeer Farm!). The trail is about 2 miles round trip with about 700 ft. in elevation gain. At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with a 360-degree panorama that stretches over the Mat-Su Valley, Knik Glacier, and the Chugach Range!
- Mount Baldy Loop (moderate) – this is a bit more challenging but the views are just as epic! It’s located roughly 30-minutes outside of downtown Palmer. The loop trail is roughly 3 miles round trip with about 1,100 ft. in elevation gain. On a clear day, you can see the Knik River winding through the landscape, the Chugach Mountains in the distance, and even get a peek at Denali if you’re lucky. Plus, you might get lucky and see some awesome wildlife—I saw a moose when I was hiking Mount Baldy with Revel Treks + Tours!
- Lazy Mountain Loop (challenging) – I should start by saying there’s nothing “lazy” about climbing this mountain; it will definitely make you sweat! The trail is about 10-15 minutes from downtown Palmer and offers a difficult climb that’s a little over 5 miles round trip with 3,000 ft. in elevation gain! As an alternate route, you can take the “Lazy Moose” trail, which is as an easier, longer route to the top if you prefer a more gradual climb.
Drive Hatcher Pass and Explore Independence Mine
If you’re looking for unique things to do near Palmer, make sure to set aside a few hours to drive up Hatcher Pass and visit Independence Mine State Historical Park. This was easily one of the highlights of my trip, combining jaw-dropping alpine scenery with a fascinating glimpse into Alaska’s gold mining past.
The drive along Hatcher Pass itself is half the adventure. As you climb higher, the views open up to sweeping panoramas that make you want to pull over every few minutes just to take it all in. Even if you’re not a history buff, the sheer beauty of this area makes the trip worth it. But trust me, once you get to Independence Mine, you’ll want to spend some time exploring the remnants of the gold mine, perched among craggy, alpine peaks that seriously feels straight out of a postcard!
You can choose to explore Independence Mine State Historical Park independently or opt for a guided tour led by Salmon Berry Travel & Tours. I personally chose to do a guided tour and I highly recommend it! Our guide offered much deeper insight into the history of the mine than what I think I would have gotten on my own from walking around solo. He really brought the history of the mine to life with stories about the miners who flocked to this remote corner of Alaska during the 1930s and he also shared colorful depictions of the living and working conditions at the mine during its peak.
We spent time walking around the grounds afterward to explore on our own and soak up the views from the base of the mine, situated beneath towering mountains and rolling hills. There is also a gift shop to pick up souvenirs and light refreshments like hot cocoa, water, and snacks.
Price: Admission to Independence Mine State Historical Park is free but parking costs $5 per vehicle and guided tours start at $15 per adult
Location: 23264 N Gold Chord Road, Palmer, AK 99645
Wander Around Downtown Palmer
One of the best parts of visiting Palmer is simply wandering around downtown, where you can soak up the small-town charm and discover different local shops, cafes, and boutiques. The downtown area of Palmer is incredibly walkable, making it easy to spend a leisurely day exploring without ever having to hop back in your car once it’s parked.
Start at Fireside Books, a cozy and well-loved independent bookstore that’s perfect for picking up a novel for your trip or browsing local authors’ works. Just two blocks away, you’ll find The Fern AK, a bright, colorful smoothie and juice shop decorated with live plants. I ordered an “off-menu” smoothie with blue spirulina, coconut milk, pineapple, and chia seeds!
Downtown Palmer isn’t just about shopping and snacking, though. You can easily visit many of the town’s must-see attractions during your stroll. As mentioned above in this post, you can visit the Palmer Museum, head over to the Colony House Museum, or snap a photo at the Palmer Depot (see below).
Enjoy a Fun Photo-Op at The Palmer Depot
As you explore downtown Palmer, check out the Palmer Depot—a historic landmark that stands as a reminder of Palmer’s early days during railroad expansion.
Located right in the heart of downtown, the Depot was once a bustling hub for the Alaska Railroad, bringing supplies and settlers to this part of the Mat-Su Valley.
Today, it now serves as a community space, hosting events, markets, and even weddings. But for visitors, it’s also a great place to snap a few photos with the iconic rail car that sits on display next to the building. It’s a cute photo op that’s not to be missed if you’re in downtown Palmer!
Price: Free to pose for a photo with the train outside of the Palmer Depot
Location: 610 S Valley Way, Palmer, AK 99645
FAQs About Visiting Palmer
What is the best time of year to visit Palmer?
The best time to visit Palmer really depends on what kind of experience you’re after. Summer, from late May to early September, is perfect if you want long, sunny days, lush green landscapes, and plenty of local events like the Alaska State Fair! I visited in late September, and it was incredible—the weather was cool but pleasant, and the fall colors were starting to pop.
If you’re more into winter activities, though, Palmer turns into a winter wonderland from December to February, perfect for skiing, snowshoeing, dog sledding, and other fun winter activities.
How far away is Palmer from Anchorage, Alaska?
Palmer is just a 45-minute drive from Anchorage, making it super easy to explore as a day trip or weekend getaway. The drive up the Glenn Highway is stunning, with mountain views and wide-open valleys that make the drive pretty easy.
Once you arrive in Palmer, everything is close enough that you can cover a lot of ground without feeling rushed.
For context, on one of the days of my trip I went to the Musk Ox Farm, the Reindeer Farm, Bleeding Heart Brewery, wandered downtown Palmer, and stopped at both the Palmer Museum and the Palmer Depot. It was a full day but we still had a little extra time to spare for dinner and evening activities.
Are there guided tours available in Palmer?
I spent 3 days exploring Palmer and the surrounding Mat-Su Valley with Revel Treks + Tours, and I couldn’t recommend them enough! My guide, Kierre, was extremely attentive to the needs of everyone in my travel party and she provided such great recommendations for things we could choose to do. Plus, transportation was included in this trip with Revel, so it made the whole experience very relaxing.
Revel Treks + Tours is a Palmer-based company, too, so by booking a guided tour or experience with them you’re supporting a local Palmer business! There is also a day tour that starts and ends in Palmer through Revel Treks + Tours for anyone staying locally that wants to go adventuring with an expert guide! Kierre also has a ton of local connections and knowledge about the area, and she worked hard to made our experience feel extremely personalized and unique.
Revel offers different packages with and without accommodation options. If you choose to book the package with accommodations, you’ll stay at nearby BlueWater BaseCamp—only about 30 minutes outside of Palmer. I adored my time exploring with Revel Treks + Tours and staying at BlueWater BaseCamp, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking to visit Palmer and the Mat-Su Valley!
Do you need a car to visit Palmer?
If you’re planning to explore Palmer or the Mat-Su Valley independently, you will need a car. The only exception to this is if you’re visiting with a guide service or tour company (like Revel Treks + Tours).
There are also several options for private drivers for hire out of downtown Anchorage, but renting a car is likely the most cost-effective way to go. You’ll also have more freedom to explore at your own pace if you rent a car or book a private tour through Revel Treks + Tours, which is based out of Palmer but can arrange pick-ups from Anchorage!
Learn more about how you can explore Palmer and the Mat-Su Valley with Revel Treks + Tours!
Final Thoughts on What to Do in Palmer, Alaska
Palmer perfectly blends history, outdoor adventure, and small-town charm into one amazing package! And the best part? It’s all just a short, scenic drive from Anchorage, making it easy to explore as a day trip or a longer independent getaway.
This guide was made possible by partnering with local Palmer businesses, Visit Anchorage, and the Mat-Su Convention and Visitors Bureau to share the highlights of this unique, charming town. I’d love to hear more about your thoughts and experiences exploring Palmer! Did you love it as much as I did? Are there any other things to do in Palmer that you think belong on this list? Feel free to reach out via email (sydney@sydneybrowntravels.com) or social media to let me know!
Safe travels—I hope your trip to Palmer is filled with unforgettable moments and breathtaking scenery!
If you enjoyed reading this guide to visiting Palmer, please consider supporting me via buying me a coffee! Whether you’re visiting Palmer, Alaska for the first time and need to get a baseline of what there is to do in this charming town, or whether you’re local to the area and looking to spice things up–I hope you gained some useful tips and insights from reading this blog post! Any funds given in support of this blog help me continue creating engaging travel content and sharing my stories and experiences with you all. I appreciate any support you can give, whether it’s a simple “share” or buying me a coffee!
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This is such a detailed report! I love it so much that I subscribed to your email newsletter! Cheers, Stacey
Hi Stacey! Thanks so much for your kind words, I’m glad you enjoyed the write-up 🙂