Chilkoot Charlies Bar
Calling Chilkoot Charlies a bar is like calling the Pyramids of Egypt a tomb. This complex is MASSIVE, providing many different drinking environments under a single roof in Anchorage, Alaska.
Written up in many top-10 lists, and earning a feature in Playboy Magazine, Chilkoot Charlies was once famous for massive brawls. It's become a bit tamer in recent years, and was downright quiet when we visited in the "early" hours of the evening, before 10pm. However, the place becomes packed as the evening progresses.
The place seems innocent enough from the outside - a largish building, a rustic, Alaskan kind of feel to it. It might be a trading post, or maybe a casual restaurant. It's only once you get inside and start exploring the location that the true size of it hits you.
People really do get lost in here. I link to the official bar layout map at the bottom of this article, if you'd like reference points. Here are the photos we took in the various locations.
The Bird House Bar
South Side - Ice Bar and Berlin Wall
Russian Tea Room
General Bar Photos
Official Koots Website Bar Layout Map
If you make it to Anchorage, this is definitely a bar to visit. It's up to you if you go during the daytime - just to check out its massive size - or in the evening, to experience the full level of rowdiness! The key is to dress casual - remember, there is sawdust on the floors, wildness in the air, and an overall atmosphere of fun!
Alaska Travelogue
Main Travelogue Listing