Bent Prop Inn & Hostel Downtown

I’d gladly stay here again, even in an eight-bed dorm, and would look for this place whenever I’m in Anchorage. The owner is approachable, and I appreciate how he balances the price with the standards he expects. It’s a good example of how a hostel or inn should be run, especially when it comes to cleanliness and making guests feel welcome. The beds, floors, showers, and restrooms were clean, and towels and shower supplies were provided. Rooms have windows for ventilation, there’s a staff-only room for larger luggage, and guests can use the kitchen and food storage. The common room on the staff floor has a relaxed feel. I heard about a guest having a bad night after drug use, hallucinating and frightening people in the dorm. As I understood it, staff dealt with the situation right away after they were told.

The location is a plus, close to the city center, and the toilets were very clean. Breakfast was basic, though. My mattress felt old enough that I could feel the springs, and the bunk beds didn’t seem very steady. Street traffic stayed loud late into the night, so earplugs are needed if that bothers you. Staff were okay. There were a couple of odd and uncomfortable things during my stay. Some older guests wouldn’t let others use the bathroom area, including the sinks, showers, toilets, and changing space, while they showered. Also, an older woman with her lower body naked wandered around the front of the building. The hostel may not have been able to do much about that, but it wasn’t pleasant when coming or going.

The bed was comfortable and the room was warm, so you won’t freeze. I spent two nights here, and Ian was extremely helpful, professional, kind, and generous. I’m a traveling chef, and he surprised me with a fantastic wild game cookbook and gave it to me with well wishes. The women’s bathroom was very clean, with plenty of new towels, soap, conditioner, and maybe body wash too. You can’t beat that. Thanks for the hospitality, I really appreciated it. Best, Chef Sharon

Clean rooms, a very good location, and good value for the money. We got there around 1 AM, though, and had to knock for quite a while before the receptionist got up to give us the keys. They should install a proper alarm or ringer.