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- Matanuska Valley and Farm Tour
The Matanuska Valley, while only about an hour by road from Anchorage, can feel a world away. Carved by ice and laced by an ever-changing braided river, it is also a rich agricultural area. The farming community of Palmer takes center stage on this day tour.
Carved by ice and laced by an ever-changing braided river.
The tour starts with a drive from Anchorage to Palmer. Along the way your driver-guide will the the story of how the Great Depression and President Roosevelt's New Deal reshaped the Matanuska Valley into the farmland you see today. Your first stop in Palmer is the Musk Ox Farm. This historic farm is a nonprofit dedicated to raising these remarkable arctic mammals and educating visitors about their changing habitats. You will be taken on a 45-minute guided tour to learn all about these fascinating creatures.
Leaving the farm you will head to downtown Palmer. Here you will have some time to explore on your own. Eat at a local restaurant, shop for local goods, explore the museum, the choice is yours. After exploring Palmer, you will head to the Reindeer Farm for self-guided tour. You can get up close view of the reindeer, and there may even be a few friendly ones who you can feed and pet. The tour concludes with a return trip to Anchorage.
More Details
The Matanuska Valley and Farm Tour is about eight hours long with stops at the Musk Ox Farm, Reindeer Farm, and downtown Palmer. Lunch is not included, but there is plenty of free time in Palmer to grab lunch (plus shopping and sightseeing!). This group tour is fully narrated by a driver-guide. Transportation is by Sprinter van or motorcoach depending on group size.
What to Bring
Much of the tour is conducted outside, so wear layers and sturdy walking shoes. Be sure to keep your rain jacket and a hat on hand.
Special Instructions
This excursion requires a moderate level of activity, with extensive walking on both paved and unpaved surfaces.
Transfers & Meeting Points
Tour picks up at many Anchorage area hotels.
Rates & Dates
Here are the rates and operating dates for this product. Remember, we have a lowest price guarantee for nearly everything we sell.
Child rate applies to guests age 3 to 17. There is no charge for children 2 and under.
| Dates | Adult | Child |
|---|---|---|
| 5/12/25 (M) to 9/25/25 (Th)5/12/25 (M) to 9/25/25 (Th) | Adult: $99.00 | Child: $89.00 |
| The rates above are subject to change without notice. | ||
Departure Times
Departure times and locations are listed below. Click on a link for an interactive map.
| Depart | Location |
|---|---|
| Depart: 8:00 AM | Location: Aloft Anchorage Hotel |
| Depart: 8:00 AM | Location: Courtyard Marriott Anchorage |
| Depart: 8:00 AM | Location: Fairfield Inn and Suites |
| Depart: 8:00 AM | Location: Lakefront Anchorage Hotel |
| Depart: 8:00 AM | Location: Residence Inn Anchorage |
| Depart: 8:00 AM | Location: Spark by Hilton Anchorage |
| Depart: 8:00 AM | Location: Springhill Suites Anchorage Midtown |
| Depart: 8:30 AM | Location: Aviator Hotel Anchorage |
| Depart: 8:30 AM | Location: Hotel Captain Cook Anchorage |
| Depart: 8:30 AM | Location: Wingate by Wyndham Anchorage |
Availability
Select a departure below to see current availability. If your desired date is sold out (red) we will do our best to find an alternative, but we may not be able to accommodate your request.
Quick Facts
- Price $99
- Duration 8 Hours
- Departs 8:00 AM
- Operating Dates Daily from 5/12/2025 to 9/25/2025
- Activity Level Less Active
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- Guided tour of the Musk Ox Farm.
- Visit to the Reindeer Farm.
- Midday stop in Palmer.
- Narration by a driver-guide.
Guest Feedback
"A great tour. We felt like we saw the highlights, and the tour guide was energetic and informative."
~Patricia from Georgia~
