Spenard Neighborhood FOOD & TRUE CRIME Walking Tour

If you’re looking for a way to see a different side of Anchorage that mixes history, culture, and a little bit of gritty storytelling, the Spenard Neighborhood FOOD & TRUE CRIME Walking Tour might just be your next highlight. This tour promises more than just sightseeing; it offers a peek into the wild, colorful past of a neighborhood known for its bars, nightlife, and underground stories from the late 60s and early 70s.

While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the high praise from past travelers—rated 5.0 out of 5 with 13 reviews—makes it worth considering if you’re after a unique, immersive experience. Two things we really appreciate are the way this tour combines delicious local food with storytelling about Anchorage’s lesser-known, edgy history. Plus, it’s clear the guides bring a lot of knowledge and personality to the table. One possible consideration? The tour’s focus on true crime and the underground scene might not be for everyone—those looking for a relaxed, family-friendly outing might want to look elsewhere.

All in all, this tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy history, stories about local culture, and sampling good food along the way. If that sounds like your kind of day, keep reading—we’ll walk you through what to expect.

Key Points

• Deep Dive into Anchorage’s Underground Past: The tour covers mobsters, bars, strip clubs, and gambling joints, revealing a side of Anchorage many don’t see.
• A Perfect Mix of Food and Storytelling: Enjoy local eats, drinks, and the stories behind them, making each stop both tasty and educational.
• Insightful Guides: Past reviews mention knowledgeable and friendly guides who bring the history to life.
• Compact and Manageable: The 3 to 4-hour tour is just enough time to get a full flavor of the neighborhood without feeling rushed.
• All-Inclusive Price: For $150, the cost covers food, drinks, and gratuities, which is good value considering the experience.
• Group Size: Small group setting (max 10 travelers) means a more personal experience and better interaction with your guide.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

What’s the Tour All About?

The Spenard Neighborhood FOOD & TRUE CRIME Walking Tour offers a chance to explore Anchorage’s lively and sometimes notorious past. It’s based in the Spenard area, a hub famous for its colorful history and eclectic vibe. The tour lasts about 3 to 4 hours, making it a manageable yet engaging way to spend an afternoon.

What really sets this experience apart is its focus on stories from the late 1960s and early 1970s. You’ll hear tales of mobsters, bikers, con artists, and even serial killers—stories spun from both the local lore and the memoir Johnny’s Girl, which paints a picture of the underground scene through the eyes of Kim M. Rich. Her father, Johnny Rich, was a key figure in Anchorage’s underworld before he was murdered when she was just 15.

This personal angle makes the stories more compelling and gives context to the wild tales you’ll hear as you walk through Spenard.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins at Blue Market on W 31st Ave, a convenient starting point. You’ll set out on foot, and the pace is relaxed enough to chat and soak everything in.

Stop 1: Chilkoot Charlie’s
This legendary bar is one of Alaska’s most famous spots. It’s a good place to kick off, with no entry fee but plenty of stories. Here, you’ll get a sense of the neighborhood’s nightlife roots and what made it a magnet for bikers and outlaws back in the day. Past guests mention the guide’s storytelling skill makes this stop a highlight, bringing the history to life.

Stop 2: Bear Tooth Theatre Pub
Next, you’ll stop for a bite and a drink at this iconic spot. It’s not just a theatre; it’s a community hub offering a cozy atmosphere. Past reviewers note the food is good, and the experience is casual and friendly. On the way, you’ll pass by Spenard Farmers Market and the Windmill, giving you a glimpse of the neighborhood’s eclectic vibe.

Stop 3: Market Juice
Time to refuel with a healthful drink and a snack. This stop keeps the focus on local flavors—think fresh juices and light bites—adding a healthy touch to the tour. It’s a good opportunity to relax and chat about the stories so far.

Stop 4: Spenard Road
The final leg involves a walk along Spenard Road itself, where the stories of the neighborhood’s underground activities come alive. You’ll hear tales about the bars, strip clubs, and gambling joints that were on every corner—places where outlaws, con artists, and ladies of the night mingled. With about an hour here, your guide will weave in local anecdotes and perhaps some darker tales of the serial killers mentioned in Kim Rich’s memoir.

The Food and Drinks

The tour’s all-inclusive price means your food, drinks, and gratuities are covered. Past visitors have appreciated the quality and variety, mentioning the delicious food and the friendly service. While specific dishes aren’t detailed, the stops are chosen for their local flavor and atmosphere, so you can expect a taste of Anchorage’s casual culinary scene.

The Guide and Group Dynamics

Guests consistently praise the guides for their knowledge, warmth, and storytelling ability. Small groups (no more than 10 people) mean you’ll get plenty of interaction and personalized attention. This intimate setting lends itself well to questions and engaging conversations about Anchorage’s more colorful side.

Pricing and Value

At $150 per person, this tour is on the higher end for a 3-4 hour experience, but considering it’s all-inclusive—including food, drinks, and gratuities—it offers solid value. The reviews suggest that the stories, food, and overall vibe justify the price, especially with the added bonus of learning about a side of Anchorage many visitors miss.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal if you’re a history buff, curious about local crime stories, or want to enjoy a fun, social afternoon. It’s particularly appealing for those who enjoy a good story paired with tasty bites, or travelers interested in a more authentic, off-the-beaten-path look at Anchorage.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

If you’re intrigued by stories of mobsters, bikers, and the underground nightlife, this tour offers a compelling mix of history, food, and local color. The knowledgeable guides, small-group setting, and authentic storytelling make it a memorable way to spend an afternoon in Anchorage.

The all-inclusive price means you won’t have surprises along the way, and the focus on true crime stories adds a layer of intrigue. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group, you’ll likely find the experience engaging and fun.

That said, if your main goal is family-friendly sightseeing or you’re not interested in Anchorage’s darker past, this might not be your best choice. But for those who love a good story paired with local flavor, this tour hits the right notes.

FAQs About the Spenard Food & True Crime Tour

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not explicitly geared toward families with young children, especially given the focus on true crime and underground stories. The content is more geared toward adult interests.

What’s included in the price?
All food, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, and server gratuities are included in the $150 fee. No additional costs are expected during the tour.

How long does the tour last?
Expect about 3 to 4 hours, which makes it a comfortable, well-paced experience without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Blue Market on W 31st Ave and ends at Chilkoot Charlie’s on Spenard Rd.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance. Refunds are processed promptly if canceled early.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Are there any dietary restrictions accommodated?
Unfortunately, the tour can’t cater to specific dietary restrictions such as vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free options due to the changing menu and food availability.

Is transportation provided during the tour?
Since this is a walking tour, transportation isn’t necessary once you meet at the starting point. All stops are within walking distance.

What type of footwear should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as you’ll be walking along Spenard Road and visiting different stops.

In summary, the Spenard Neighborhood FOOD & TRUE CRIME Walking Tour offers a lively, authentic glimpse into Anchorage’s past—complete with stories, food, and local flavor. It’s an experience for those who love history, storytelling, and a bit of adventure. If that sounds like your kind of day, it’s well worth considering.