Embark on a Beautiful Drive from Anchorage to Homer
Anchorage is the largest metropolitan area in Alaska. It serves as the hub for all things Alaskan history, arts and culture, outdoor recreation, and even travel. The city’s population nears 300,000 residents, making it the most densely populated city in the state. Anchorage residents are proud to call this city home, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need a getaway every once in a while! We invite Anchorage residents to come visit us in Homer for a chance to unplug, unwind, and recharge. Anchorage to Homer is a relatively easy and efficient route that is a beautiful drive with many things to see along the way. Take advantage of our open book of travel tips with the information below.
Request a copy of our complimentary Vacation Guide to help fill in your Homer, Alaska, itinerary after you’ve mapped your route! This resource is filled with local recommendations in an easily-accessible format to serve as your personal travel guide from the moment it hits your inbox.
Discover the Wonders of Alaska Along the Scenic Highway
Get a sneak peak into our fantastic views via our Homer Spit webcams to see Kachemak Bay and Homer Harbor.
There have been minimal delays due to road construction on the Sterling Highway. Our guests have been reporting no delays as of late. You can check out the road alerts at 511 Alaska.
Whether you drive or fly you will find Homer to be worth the journey! We look forward to seeing you!
Would You Rather: Fly, Drive, or Shuttle?
No matter what travel method you choose to get to Homer, you’ll still experience 225 beautiful, scenic miles from Anchorage to Homer. If you choose to drive and enjoy the four to five hours of designated scenic byway; you will see that it emulates a national park! Utilizing a car rental service is also a great way to go.
Or, choose to fly! Homer is only 117 miles from Anchorage as the crow flies. You can fly, Commercial Airline, Ravn Air or Charter a flight with Bald Mountain Air and get you to your final destination in just 50 minutes! This way, you can add almost a full day to your trip by cutting back on travel time. Upon descent, look out your window for incredible views of the Kachemak Bay!
One newer way to travel from Anchorage to Homer is via shuttle service. Alaska Bus Company can get you from Anchorage to Homer in one day for less than $100 per ticket! You can’t beat the price, and you’ll see all the same scenic views you would take a car. It runs along Seward Highway and passes by beautiful views of Cook Inlet.
As of now, the bus holds 22 passengers and runs on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from June through September. Fun fact: the vehicle runs on recycled vegetable oil! Feel good about your auto travel when you utilize this service!
Stops Along the Way
The views from a plane or the shuttle are great, but perhaps the best thing about choosing to drive from Anchorage to Homer is the beautiful stops along the way! From wildlife conservation centers and recreation areas to spots to stop for coffee, we know all the best stopovers. Check out our 8 favorite stops along Seward Highway as you plan your route from Anchorage to Homer!
- Beluga Point Lookout: This popular lookout just outside of Anchorage boasts views of Turnagain Arm. Here, you can watch the tide roll in, and, if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of Beluga whales!
- Alaskan Wildlife Conservation Center: Support our environment and gaze in awe at some incredible wildlife sightings when you stop here! Drive or walk and watch from a comfortable distance as moose, bears, wolves, and eagles enjoy their life in this safe haven.
- Canyon Creek Rest Stop: By now, you certainly have to stop and rest. At Canyon Creek Rest Stop, do just that and enjoy views of the junction of Canyon and Six Mile Creeks.
- Kenai River along Cooper Landing Area: Pullover alongside the Kenai River to take in views of pristine, turquoise water.
- Open Year round the Moose is Loose Bakery is the perfect place to pick up a savory baked item and use the restroom in Soldotna!
- The Homestead Museum: You will enjoy a quick stop here in Soldotna, AK to stretch your legs, use the restroom and tour an authentic period of Alaska’s colorful past at this quaint little museum. The historical society members who staff the site offer a wealth of knowledge and personal stories. This is definitely a worthwhile break when driving to Homer only 75 miles left to go. We promise you the drive is just part of the journey! Open May 15-Sept 15.
- Ninilchik Russian Orthodox Church: You’ll feel like you’re in a fairytale storybook when you stop on the grounds of this church in Ninilchik, AK. Amid beautiful architecture and steeples, you’ll stand amid beautiful views and wildflowers. The exterior is great for photography while the interior is chock full of history.
- Anchor River State Recreation Area: As you near your final destination, make one last stop at Anchor River. This recreation area is the furthest west you can drive in North America. Just one more thing to check off your Alaskan bucket list!
- The Homer Baycrest Overlook: Many who arrive in Homer, even locals, look forward to the moment they crest Homer Hill and drop down into this picturesque small fishing town. Breathtaking views of Kachemak Bay with its backdrop of Glaciers and Mountains really does give you the feeling that you’re coming home. The Overlook allows you the opportunity to savor the views and make that feeling last just a little bit longer. It’s worth the stop.
Arrive at Driftwood Inn in Homer, Alaska
After your route from Anchorage to Homer, you’ll likely be ready for a place to rest. Driftwood Inn is the perfect place to do just that! Travelers who visit with the intent to explore will enjoy guest rooms in our Historic Inn. The inn is located within walking distance to shops and restaurants in downtown Homer for optimal convenience.
Reserve Room 35 for cozy accommodations and privacy. Room 35 features a king-size bed, microwave, mini-fridge, and best of all air conditioning for those of you who are not used to the warm weather this summer. You can also enjoy walks on the beach, located close by, or sitting on our covered back deck to take in the views
Reserve your favorite Homer, AK, lodging option to begin your journey. See you soon!