Top things to do on the UAA campus during summer

by Green & Gold News  |   

Flowers bloom in the UAA 50th Anniversary Garden.
Flowers bloom in the UAA 50th Anniversary Garden. (Photo by James Evans / University of Alaska Anchorage)

Is there anything better than summer in Alaska? Check out our round-up of the best activities for enjoying the longer days on UAA's Anchorage campus.

Take a tour of campus

Campus bustles with greenery in the summer. Take a casual stroll across campus to admire the landscaping and public art found at nearly every corner. For a self-guided option, check out the Chris Turletes Memorial Tree Tour, showcasing UAA's unique urban forest. Additionally, UAA's Office of Admissions hosts campus tours most Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays throughout the summer, and new students can join a tour with New Student Orientation pending availability.

Lounge on the Quad

Cuddy Quad makes the perfect summer lawn. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and set up a spot to study, picnic, play ball or simply enjoy the sun. Mark your calendar for the fourth Tuesday of every month for Concerts in the Quad, when live music and food trucks take over the space for a lunchtime social.

Explore the area around campus

UAA is at the heart of Anchorage's greenbelt, and there are countless ways to explore the parks and trails surrounding campus — walking, biking and floating are just a few. Check out the Anchorage bike map for a comprehensive guide to the area.

Chair of Auto/Diesel programs Darrin Marshall and Diesel Power Technology professor Nate Berry fly fish for rainbow trout on Chester Creek where it flows under the UAA Spine.
Chair of Auto/Diesel programs Darrin Marshall and Diesel Power Technology professor Nate Berry fly fish for rainbow trout on Chester Creek where it flows under the UAA Spine. (Photo by James Evans / University of Alaska Anchorage)

Get out on the water

Students, faculty and staff can rent kayaks, canoes or stand-up paddleboards from the Student Union Gear Room by the day, weekend or week. The options make it easy to enjoy the water for an afternoon or plan a longer excursion. Whether you're in a boat or on the shore, the nearby lakes and creeks are prime fishing locations. Check with the Alaska Department of Fish & Game for the latest regulations.

Watch for wildlife

Anchorage is known for its big wildlife and campus is no exception. Moose, bears, hares, countless birds and wood frogs have all been spotted on campus during summer. Remember to practice common sense and stay safe when observing wildlife.

A young bull moose wanders the East end of the UAA campus outside the Fine Arts Building.
A young bull moose wanders the east end of the UAA campus outside the Fine Arts Building. (Photo by James Evans / University of Alaska Anchorage)

Fuel up at Kaladi Brothers Coffee

The Kaladi Brothers on campus is open for the summer. Enjoy a full menu of tea and coffee, plus grab-and-go sandwiches and pastries. Ample seating and large picture windows make it a great spot for studying and socializing.

Spend an afternoon at the library

On a rainy day, the UAA/APU Consortium Library makes a great escape. (It's also conveniently located next to the Kaladi's.) Browse the collections, borrow a book or check out the rotating displays on the first and third floors.

Recreate at the AVIS Alaska Sports Complex

Take advantage of the AVIS Alaska Sports Complex recreational facilities. Go for a swim in the pool, skate on the ice rink or train at the fitness center and Olympic weight room.

Jared Woods performs at UAA's May 2024 Concert on the Quad.
Jared Woods performs at UAA's May 2024 Concert on the Quad. (Photo by James Evans / University of Alaska Anchorage)

Enjoy food and community at campus events

Connect with fellow Seawolves at summer socials on campus, from Concerts in the Quad to Campus Kick Off. Check the UAA calendar for all upcoming events. Staff and faculty can also check out Employee Experience programming for more opportunities.

Go to summer camp (or take a class)

Nearly every college at UAA offers some type of summer camp for younger students. From engineering and culinary arts to real estate and media, there's a camp for every kid's interest. Adult learners can also sign up for summer electives in art, recreation and more.

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