Overview
Lake Hood is the largest floatplane base in the world and offers a unique experience for visitors to watch seaplanes take off and land on the water. It's a popular spot for plane enthusiasts and photographers.
Lake Hood is renowned for being the busiest seaplane base in the world, offering a glimpse into Alaska's aviation history and culture.
Location
Address
4725 W 15th Ave, Anchorage, AK 99502
Neighborhood: West Anchorage
Coordinates
61.188700, -149.982800
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
May-September
Best Time of Day
Mid-morning
Best visibility and fewer crowds
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Mild, variable
- • Increased seaplane activity
- • Beautiful scenery with budding trees
summer
Warm, sunny
- • Long daylight hours
- • Peak seaplane activity
autumn
Cool, crisp
- • Fall foliage
- • Cooler weather
winter
Cold, snowy
- • Snow-covered landscape
- • Unique winter lighting
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Check weather conditions
- Dress in layers
- Bring a camera
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Low
- • Be cautious near the water
- • Watch for low-flying planes
Medical facilities: Nearby medical facilities available
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit cards
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Casual, weather-appropriate, Layers, comfortable shoes, Waterproof boots in winter, comfortable walking shoes in summer, Restrictive clothing
Booking Tips
- • Not required, but check for special events
- • Official website for special events
- • Varies by event
- • Not applicable
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Alaska Aviation App
Size: 20 MB
Features: Flight schedules, Map, Information
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Observation deck
Charging Stations: Observation area
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport
Distance: 1 km
Travel Time: 5 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 5 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Unique aviation heritage, beautiful scenery
Historical Significance: Important hub for Alaskan aviation
Insider Tips
- Best views from the observation deck
- Visit during breakfast or lunch for fewer crowds
Local Recommendations
- • Try local seafood at nearby restaurants
- • Visit the Anchorage Museum
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Observation deck
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Wide shots of the lake and planes
Result: Stunning aerial views
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport
Distance: 1km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Airport
Delaney Park Strip
Distance: 2km
Walking: 25 min
Type: Park
Anchorage Museum
Distance: 3km
Walking: 40 min
Type: Museum
Reviews
Based on 850 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit during breakfast for fewer crowds"
- "Bring a camera"
- "Enjoy the unique aviation experience"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (4)
Quick Info
Available Tours
15
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
850
Adult Entry
Free