MAY IN ANCHORAGE
Glaciers, Wildlife, and Scenic Cruise Ship Transfers
May in Anchorage is when Alaska truly wakes up. Snow has melted from the city, green leaves return to the trees, and wildflowers start to bloom in the valleys. Wildlife is active, days are long, and the first cruise ships of the season arrive in Seward and Whittier, making it the perfect month for scenic transfer tours, glacier hikes, and wildlife viewing.
Back to Seasonal GuidesWhy Visit Anchorage in May?
Cruise Season Begins
Ideal for combining transfers with sightseeing
Wildlife Viewing at its Best
Moose, bears, eagles, and whales
Long Daylight Hours
Up to 18 hours by month's end
Blooming Landscapes
Spring wildflowers and green mountainsides
Top Anchorage Day Tours for May
Seward to Anchorage Scenic Tour
Turn your cruise ship transfer into a full-day adventure.
- Kenai Peninsula beauty: Mountains, glaciers, and coastal views
- Wildlife Conservation Center stop: See moose, bears, and bison
- Customizable stops: Exit Glacier, Turnagain Arm photo spots, and Girdwood
Whittier to Anchorage Scenic Tour
Travel through one of Alaska's most unique routes.
- Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel: The longest combined rail/highway tunnel in North America
- Prince William Sound views: Coastal mountains and waterfalls
- Wildlife viewing & glacier stops along Turnagain Arm
Matanuska Glacier Tour
Walk on ancient blue ice in the heart of the mountains.
- Guided hike: Crevasses, ice caves, and incredible scenery
- Milder weather: Perfect for comfortable glacier trekking
- Year-round accessibility with spring wildflower views en route
Glacier View & Wildlife Tour
See glaciers and Alaska's iconic animals in one day.
- Wildlife Conservation Center: Moose, bears, elk, bison, and more
- Scenic Glenn Highway: May wildflowers and snow-capped peaks
- Glacier viewpoints for photos
Hatcher Pass Tour
Spring in the Talkeetna Mountains offers both snow and green.
- Independence Mine: Explore Alaska's gold mining history
- Alpine scenery: Late snow patches contrast with emerging vegetation
- Photography-friendly stops
Spring Wildlife Viewing Excursion
Private, customizable tour for the best seasonal animal encounters.
- Spot bears emerging from dens
- See moose with newborn calves
- Birdwatching for returning migratory species
May Travel FAQ — Anchorage & Southcentral Alaska
Is May a Good Time for Wildlife Viewing?
Yes — bears are active, moose are calving, and migratory birds are abundant. Whales are also often spotted in coastal waters near Seward and Whittier.
What's the Weather Like in May?
Daytime highs range from 45–60°F (7–16°C). Snow remains on high peaks, but lower valleys are green and in bloom.
What Should I Pack for May Tours?
Layered clothing for changing temperatures, waterproof jacket & shoes for rain showers, and sunglasses & sunscreen for long daylight hours.
When Should I Book Cruise Ship Transfer Tours?
We recommend booking at least 6–8 weeks in advance for May transfers, as they fill quickly with early-season cruise passengers.
Why Book a May Tour with Welcome Anchorage Tours?
Seamless cruise transfers with built-in sightseeing, local guides for the best wildlife and scenic stops, and flexible itineraries to match your schedule and interests.
Why Book a May Tour with Welcome Anchorage Tours?
Seamless cruise transfers with built-in sightseeing
Local guides for the best wildlife and scenic stops
Flexible itineraries to match your schedule and interests
Plan Your May Adventure Today
Whether you're arriving by cruise ship or exploring Alaska by land, May offers long days, active wildlife, and stunning scenery without the summer crowds.