We are taking our first ever cruise (40th anniversary) and we will end in Whittier on August 29. We'll then go to Anchorage for a few days. Because I am an avid gardener, I would like to go to the Alaska state fair. We will not have a car and we need to figure how to get from Anchorage to the fair. Any thoughts?

It is approximately 40-45 miles from Anchorage to the fairgrounds in Palmer. I suspect the only way to get there would be by car. Even though the AK railroad goes right by there, I think the stop is in Wasilla, not Palmer.

Can any locals correct me if I'm wrong?

It would be well worth renting a car for the day if that is the only way to get there. The flower and vegetable displays are amazing---Alaskans are great gardeners, and they do a whole lot more than the big cabbages. You'll be amazed.

Here is a link:

http://tinyurl.com/azccl3

you get the fair admission and the off pavement experience. Depending on your time restrictions, and the train schedule, it might be worth checking into, for planning purposes.

Enjoy your visit. We are having a beautiful, sunny season, thus far. The produce should be amazing..

Thank you for all your replies. As I am an avid (some say CRAZY) gardener, Enzian's idea that it would be worth renting a car for the day to attend seems like a good way to go although I would really prefer public transportation. jetset1, I am hoping that the train works out.
I am very excited to visit Alaska and seeing the amazing vegetable and fruit displays would be the "icing" on my Alaska visit.
Orlando_Vic, I wondered how far out the fairgrounds are, so that is very helpful.
Thank you all!

gladnarn,
I went there last year and it really is not close to public transportation. A rental car is the way to go, and it's an easy drive from Anchorage.

Happy anniversary and welcome to Alaska, hopefully you will find our state enjoyable as well as beautiful. The Alaska Railroad has a stop literally at the entrance to the fairgrounds, however, tickets costs as much to rent a car, not too mention the cost of getting yourselves to the train station. There are also Transportation Company’s in town that are reasonable and are very comfortable.

Should you rent a car, the rental company's have been hurt by the nationwide economy, so barter a price for a day or two. Also the drive is easy, just drive north until you arrive at the fork in the road and turn right.

Good luck.

I live in Wasilla (next to Palmer) and I would highly suggest
renting a car. Yes, the train stop is right there at the Fairgrounds, but a rental car gives you so many more options, and you can come and go as you want.

Palmer Alaska is located in one of the most beautiful parts of Alaska....the Matanuska Susitna Valley. Before or after the Fair, take a quick drive up to Hatcher's Pass and a little further up the Glenn Highway. Both locations are immensely scenic and perfect for a drive.

For more more information about the area (including a short video of the area) visit these web sites:

http://www.alaskavisit.com
http://www.great-vacation-in-alaska....la-alaska.html

Happy Anniversary and I hope you have a great time, here in Alaska.

Thank you Patriot Express, Mike in Alaska and Orlando Vic for the rental car suggestions. This is such a great forum. Its like having a group of friends who look out for you. I have read about the amazing Alaska fruits and veggies and am thrilled that I'll get to see some of the best, thanks to your transportation suggestions.