THE GATEWAY VISITOR CENTER

The mat-su starts here

One stop can ensure that you get the most out of your visit to The Mat-Su: the Gateway Visitor Center near Palmer. Whether you’re visiting Alaska for the first time or returning to relive the magic, the Gateway is a new experience for all. Having just opened their doors in the summer of 2026, the expert staff at the Gateway are prepared to let you in on all The Mat-Su’s best kept secrets. This is much more than just a place to pick up a brochure. There’s an outdoor walkway with picnic tables, expansive views of Alaska mountains and glacier-formed river valleys, and larger-than-life interpretive displays just inside. Discover The Mat-Su’s natural wonders, discover its diverse cultures, histories and thriving traditions. Learn about each of our unique communities and what not to miss when you visit them.

ADVENTURE AT YOUR FINGERTIPS

The Mat-Su has countless things to see and do. With scenic drives, hiking trails, wildlife viewing, historic sites, Alaska fresh dining, local events and outdoor adventures, forming a plan can sometimes be overwhelming. Take advantage of the interactive touch screen kiosk at the Gateway! Explore lodging, dining, events and activities at any location along your way. It’s all at your fingertips!

You may even discover something amazing that entices you to reroute your itinerary a little. No problem! The kiosks have itinerary-builder functionality so you can bookmark things that interest you. The itinerary builder can even give you driving directions to each of them. There’s nothing to memorize, either. You can send maps, business names, phone numbers and other information from the kiosk straight to yourself via text or email. Anytime you have a question about an activity or a location on the kiosk, the Gateway’s experts are standing by with all the details.

It’s all about community

A reindeer wearing a blue harness stands outside a visitor center building in Mat-Su, Alaska

An educational display featuring animal tracks and information cards about wildlife in Mat-Su, Alaska

A modern dark wooden building with large log pillars and picnic tables on grass in Mat-Su, Alaska

The Mat-Su Borough Gateway Visitor Center building with a sign in the foreground in Mat-Su, Alaska

An interior view of a museum exhibit featuring nature-themed displays and informative signage in Mat-Su, Alaska

A visitor center interior with a brochure display rack and a reception desk in Mat-Su, Alaska

An educational display about camping in the Mat-Su region with mountain and lake imagery in Mat-Su, Alaska

A caribou grazes on grass in front of the Matanuska-Susitna Borough Gateway Visitor Center in Mat-Su, Alaska

The Gateway connects visitors with the many experiences available throughout The Mat-Su. It’s more than just a visitor center, though. This place is also a community hub for Mat-Su residents. With family and friends occasionally visiting from other states, even the locals need fresh ideas from time to time.

Locals know from experience that you could spend a lifetime in The Mat-Su and still not see everything or do it all. The Gateway Visitor Center is where everybody comes to discover something new about this land. A brief stop here is a great way to become a part of The Mat-Su community and join in the endless search for the next great Mat-Su adventure!

FIND THE GATEWAY VISITOR CENTER

You’re probably already considering a visit to The Mat-Su, which makes you a savvy Alaska trip planner. When you do come to The Mat-Su, do yourself this favor and stop by the Gateway Visitor Center. Grab a free cup of coffee or tea and take a few minutes to look around. Meet with locals who can help you make the most of your time in Alaska. Here’s how to find us:

2764 S. East Matanuska Spur Road
Palmer, Alaska 99645

Phone: (907) 746-5000
Email: info@thematsualaska.com

And perhaps you already have a few questions in mind about The Mat-Su. The Gateway team can help you even before you arrive! Answer three questions below to connect with the Gateway pros and plan an Alaska adventure on your terms in The Mat-Su!

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Our team of experts at the Gateway Visitor Center are ready to help you with your Mat-Su plans. Choose the options below to request a visitor guide, sign up for our monthly newsletter, or both! You can share your plans and send questions directly to our knowledgeable staff! When you’ve selected the Mat-Su resources you’d like, a “Submit Request” button will appear below.

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GET THE MAT-SU ALASKA VISITOR GUIDE

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STAY IN THE KNOW WITH OUR MONTHLY E-NEWSLETTER

This monthly emailed newsletter highlights popular events, shares recent Mat-Su blog posts, showcases new attractions and adventures, and spotlights our beloved Mat-Su communities.

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The Mat-Su monthly e-newsletter highlights popular events, shares recent Mat-Su blog posts, showcases new attractions and adventures, and spotlights our beloved Mat-Su communities.

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TALK TO LOCAL MAT-SU EXPERTS

Our Gateway Visitor Center staff and local Mat-Su experts can share insights on ideal times to visit, popular events to catch and the region’s best kept secrets!

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SHARE YOUR MAT-SU PLANS

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We want to provide the best tips and information to enhance your Mat-Su experience. When are you arriving? How long will you stay? Let’s hear those bucket list items! Just make sure you’ve provided either a phone or email above so we can contact you.