The Wildbirch Hotel now open in downtown Anchorage, marking Alaska’s debut JdV by Hyatt property

Andrea Thompson

ByAndrea Thompson

June 16, 2025

Anchorage’s hospitality landscape has been transformed with the arrival of The Wildbirch Hotel, a locally owned lifestyle boutique property now open in the heart of the city’s Mushing District.

As the first JdV by Hyatt hotel in Alaska—and the first new hotel in downtown Anchorage in two decades—the 252-room Wildbirch brings fresh energy to the West Fourth Avenue corridor, an area known for its vibrant mix of culture, history, dining, and retail.

Positioned as both a community hub and a basecamp for travellers eager to explore the wild beauty of Alaska, The Wildbirch Hotel offers a dynamic guest experience that celebrates local culture and design. With sleek, modern interiors and a communal outdoor deck that boasts fire pits and panoramic views of Mount Susitna and Knik Arm, the hotel blends contemporary comforts with the spirit of Alaskan adventure.

“It’s very special to see our overnight guests immerse themselves in the Anchorage lifestyle, engage with locals and discover what makes our little corner of Alaska such a magical place,” said Haje Thurau, General Manager of The Wildbirch Hotel.

The property includes over 5,000 square feet of event and meeting space designed to host everything from intimate gatherings to larger celebrations. The hotel’s striking design and flexible venues are already attracting interest from both visitors and local organisations looking for a stylish downtown setting.

Dining at The Wildbirch Hotel is headlined by Crimson, the hotel’s signature restaurant led by Executive Chef La Mont Caldwell. Open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Crimson delivers bold interpretations of classic Alaskan fare with a Pan-American Latin twist. Guests can enjoy dishes in a warm, inviting dining room, or al fresco on the seasonal terrace, with private dining available for small groups. The restaurant’s bar offers a more casual menu, and hotel guests can also enjoy in-room dining from Crimson’s kitchen.

“We are confident Crimson will make its mark on Anchorage’s buzzing dining scene,” said Gary McCutcheon, the hotel’s Director of Food and Beverage. “Chef La Mont is extremely talented and we’re excited to serve hotel guests and locals alike with elevated flavours that celebrate Alaska.”

For early risers and on-the-go guests, Canteen Coffee Co. provides fresh espresso, juices, snacks, and locally made goods. The café is accessible through the hotel lobby or from a street-facing walk-up window, offering a convenient stop for both guests and passersby.

Later this year, the hotel will introduce The Undertap, a new craft beer tasting room created in partnership with Midnight Sun Brewing Co., one of Anchorage’s best-loved local breweries. Designed as a laidback space for casual drinks or private gatherings, The Undertap will further expand the hotel’s role as a social hub within downtown Anchorage.

The Wildbirch Hotel is the flagship project of MASH, LLC, a partnership between former U.S. Senator and Anchorage Mayor Mark Begich and Sheldon Fisher, former Alaska State Revenue Commissioner. Their mission is to lead the revitalisation of downtown Anchorage with projects that prioritise community engagement and smart development. Hotel operations are being managed by Springboard Hospitality, a specialist in lifestyle hotels across the United States.

“This property offers a unique, modern Alaska experience unlike anywhere else,” said Begich. “It’s our great pleasure to introduce The Wildbirch Hotel to Anchorage as part of our broader vision for a thriving downtown.”

With its vibrant food and drink offerings, thoughtful design, and commitment to showcasing the best of the local landscape and community, The Wildbirch Hotel sets a new standard for boutique hospitality in the Last Frontier.