Best summer ever: Top activities and events on UAA's Anchorage campus

Longer days mean more time to enjoy the abundance of activities on UAA's Anchorage campus. From nature walks to multiplayer gaming, check out our roundup of the best ways to celebrate summer on campus in any weather.

Take a tour of campus

Campus bustles with greenery in the summer. Take a casual walk across campus to admire the landscaping and public art found across campus. Join the Office of Alumni and Community Engagement for themed strolls throughout the summer: wildlife walk on June 12; garden tour on July 10; and tree tour on Aug. 14. For a self-guided option, check out the Chris Turletes Memorial Tree Tour that showcases UAA's unique urban forest with more than 70 different species of trees (the largest variety planted on public land in Alaska). 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 every month for Concerts in the Quad, when live music and food trucks take over the space for a lunchtime social. Upcoming dates for 2025 are: May 19 , June 23 and July 28 .

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.

Go fishing

Whether you're in a boat or on the shore, the lakes and streams around campus 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.

Go gaming in the Student Union

Located in the Student Union, UAA's Esports Lounge features PC and console stations for students and community members to practice, compete and play recreationally.

Catch up on UAA's podcast and premier publication

Looking for summer listening? Seawolf Voices has you covered. From dog mushing and Indigenous education to coaching volleyball and working in Hollywood, hear from alumni about how their UAA experience shaped their journey. For summer reading, don't miss the latest issue of Alumni Spirit , themed around creativity.

Spend an afternoon at the library

On a rainy day, the UAA/APU Consortium Library makes a great escape. 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, find your groove in the dance studio or train at the fitness center and Olympic weight room. Access is free for students taking summer classes. Day passes, semester passes and punch cards are available for all other students, staff, faculty, alumni and the general public.

Enjoy food and community at campus events

Connect with fellow Seawolves at summer socials on campus, from Concerts in the Quad to Campus Kickoff . Alumni and Community Engagement hosts events for alumni throughout the summer on campus and across town, while Employee Experience offers additional opportunities for staff and faculty. View the UAA calendar for all upcoming events.

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.