Cultural & Historic Attractions

Palmer Museum & Visitor Center
Learn about the town’s farming roots, Alaska Native culture, and the 1935 Matanuska Colony project. The garden paths are beautiful in summer.
723 S Valley Way, Palmer, AK 99645
📞 (907) 746-7668

Colony House Museum
A restored 1930s colony home preserved by the Palmer Historical Society. Offers seasonal tours with original furnishings and family history.
316 E Elmwood Avenue, Palmer, AK 99645
📞 (907) 745-1935

Independence Mine State Historical Park
Historic gold mine ruins nestled high in Hatcher Pass. Tour the old buildings and explore the mountainside trails.
Mile 15 Hatcher Pass Road, Palmer, AK 99645
📞 (907) 745-3975

Outdoor Adventures

Hatcher Pass
Palmer’s most iconic destination—offering hiking, wildflowers, berry picking, skiing, and alpine lakes. Don’t miss the drive over the pass when the road is open (usually July to September).

Gold Cord Lake Trail
A short alpine trail starting at Independence Mine. Leads to a turquoise lake with sweeping views—perfect for picnics or wildflower photos.

Reed Lakes Trail
One of the most stunning alpine hikes in Alaska. Boulder hopping and glacier lakes await those up for the challenge.

Bodenburg Butte
A quick but steep local favorite with views of the Mat-Su Valley and Pioneer Peak from the summit.

Family-Friendly Favorites

Musk Ox Farm
Visit a real working farm with these Ice Age animals and learn about qiviut fiber. Great for kids, photographers, and animal lovers.
12850 E Archie Road, Palmer, AK 99645
📞 (907) 745-4151

Reindeer Farm
Walk among reindeer, meet a moose, and take seasonal hayrides or horseback rides.
5561 S Bodenburg Loop, Palmer, AK 99645
📞 (907) 745-4000

Friday Fling Market
Downtown farmers market from May to August. Enjoy food trucks, music, handmade goods, and local produce.
Palmer Downtown Pavilion
📞 (907) 745-2880

Alaska State Fair
Held annually in August and September. Home to record-breaking vegetables, live concerts, carnival rides, and Alaskan food.
2075 Glenn Highway, Palmer, AK 99645
📞 (907) 745-4827

Glaciers & Guided Tours

Matanuska Glacier Tours
Take a guided walk on one of Alaska’s most accessible glaciers, located about an hour northeast of Palmer. Tours available year-round.

Knik Glacier Flights & River Tours
Scenic flights, glacier landings, river boat trips, and ATV tours available from local outfitters.

Palmer Downtown Walking Tour
Pick up a self-guided walking map from the visitor center and explore historic buildings, murals, and shops.