Well Alaska was fantastic, and thanks for all your ideas! Got my fill of fresh fish which was delightful. Glacier Brewing was great! 49th State Brewing good. Ray's down in Seward was good too.
Two (2) nights at the Embassy Suites in midtown Anc.; and 2 nights at the Harbor 360 in Seward.
You are right that Anchorage is a bit rundown, but still a nice backdrop and food!
Saw a lot of wildlife (land and sea). Took day tours in each town.
Must admit that early May IS a good time, not crowded, and weather was doable for sure.
Had to add the Whittier side trip, just to do it. :)
Thanks again. Will go back and try the west side of Kenai Peninsula, and possible Kodiak Is. For sure, Fairbanks, Denali and the Northern Lights are in our future.