Wingate by Wyndham Anchorage Downtown/Ship Creek

Most guests at Comfort Inn Ship Creek are tourists, and it isn't unusual to see repeat travelers who stay here more than once while sightseeing in Alaska. The three-story brick building has a standard chain hotel look, but the two-floor lobby has rustic appeal, with mountain lodge-style decor. There are several mounted animals, including a huge grizzly bear. Moose antler chandeliers, stenciled salmon figures, and a natural stone fireplace are other examples of attempts to evoke Alaska’s rugged outdoor spirit inside the hotel. It’s a pleasant space with plenty of comfy seating, and it's often busy at all hours during high season in summer.

The Comfort Inn is located on the far north end of downtown Anchorage, a three-minute walk from the railroad depot. Ship Creek runs behind the hotel, and anglers trying to catch salmon there is a common sight. There's also a walking trail along the water. A full-service seafood restaurant on Ship Creek is only one minute away on foot, but walking to other restaurants requires a much longer trek into downtown. Anchorage Fifth Avenue Mall is roughly a 15-minute walk. Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport is a 20-minute drive or hotel shuttle ride.

The comfortable guest rooms have typical contemporary chain hotel decor, with a neutral-dominant palette, reddish-brown furniture, and pattered wall-to-wall carpeting. Light-navy armchairs with modern lines, bed throws, and accents in framed prints add a dash of color. Double Queens are spacious and all have desks with office chairs, and Kings come with sleeper sofas. Larger suites with kitchens are available, and some suites have two-person, en-suite whirlpool tubs. Amenities are a plus, as all units come equipped with large mini-fridges, microwaves, coffeemakers, 32-inch flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi, though noise from passing trains nearby can be an issue for some guests. Bathrooms have shower/tub combos, hairdryers, and colorful bottled toiletries; some units have vanities that are en-suite. Views are either of scenic Ship Creek or the property's grounds.

There are ample freebies at the Comfort Inn Ship Creek, and the hot breakfast buffet is a highlight. The spread includes eggs, waffles, bacon, sausage, and fruit, plus cereal, bread, and a range of other cold items. Free coffee and tea are available 24/7, and there's free on-site parking, weekday newspapers, an airport shuttle (that operates 24/7 in summer), and Wi-Fi throughout. Guests who want to try their luck catching salmon in Ship Creek can borrow fishing gear from the hotel free of charge.

No full-service restaurant or bar is on-site, but a small heated indoor pool and fitness center with modern equipment are perks. Other amenities include a guest laundry room, valet dry cleaning and laundry, and vending machines. Pets are welcome with a surcharge and some restrictions.