be sure to not just hang out in downtown, the touristy area, but also check out spenard (a neighborhood around spenard rd) for a real slice of anchorage / alaska culture. it used to be a lot seedier (read: more fun) and actually had brothels up until a few years ago. still a ton of great bars and restaurants. koots is a slice of life and recommended for the experience if nothing else, and blues central and the buckaroo club are a blast too.