Framed by the towering Chugach Mountains and surrounded by the crystalline waters of the Cook Inlet, the landscape around Anchorage is full of uniquely captivating beauty and splendor. Trips up into the mountains yield unrivaled views of land untouched by civilization while tours over the water allow sightings of wildlife found nowhere else. As the state's largest city, Anchorage holds many of Alaska's most popular events celebrating its climate and heritage. Winter excitement kicks off in February with the Fur Rendezvous Festival while the beginning of the famous Iditarod sled dog race occurs in March. The traditions of Native Alaskan cultures are honored at both the interactive Alaska Native Heritage Center and the Anchorage Museum of History and Art.