Grizzly's Gifts, established in 1985 by Bob Neumann and his wife Carolyn, has become a cornerstone of downtown Anchorage, Alaska. Located at the iconic intersection of Fourth Avenue and E Street, this family-owned shop has long been celebrated for its exceptional array of Alaskan-themed gifts and souvenirs. Over the years, it has transformed into much more than a gift store—it is a true Alaskan curiosity shop. Visitors can explore rare artifacts, displays of Alaskan animals, and even mysterious creatures from Alaskan myth and global folklore, making it a must-visit destination for those captivated by the extraordinary and unexplained.

Grizzly's Gifts is devoted to providing an authentic Alaskan experience, immersing guests in the rich culture, history, and wonder of the Last Frontier. This commitment shines through not only in the store’s unique offerings but also in the artistic spirit of the Neumann family. Their deep roots as artists are evident throughout the shop, infusing it with a distinctive charm that celebrates Alaska’s natural beauty and enigmatic allure.
 

In 1998, Grizzly's Gifts solidified its place as an Anchorage landmark with the installation of a 9-foot-8-inch fiberglass grizzly bear above its entrance. Recently restored in 2024, this beloved icon continues to delight residents and visitors alike. Complementing this landmark is the massive real-life stuffed bear that greets guests just inside the front door, enhancing the shop’s distinctive appeal.

Bob Neumann’s legacy extends far beyond retail, leaving an indelible mark on both Anchorage’s heritage and Alaska’s tourism industry. One of his most notable contributions was the restoration of the Historic Anchorage Hotel—the very building that houses Grizzly's Gifts. Originally constructed in 1916, this historic building was rescued from demolition and revitalized under Bob’s care. Today, it stands as a celebrated piece of Anchorage lore, widely recognized as one of the most haunted buildings in America. Featured in renowned publications such as USA Today and National Geographic Traveler, it consistently ranks among the most haunted places in the nation, with countless reports of unexplained phenomena from guests and staff adding to its mystique.
 

Equally transformative was Bob’s vision for glacier tourism, realized through his purchase and development of Phillips Cruises and Tours. Under his leadership, the company grew into Alaska's premier glacier cruise operator, offering unparalleled journeys through Prince William Sound. With its fleet of high-speed catamarans, personalized service, and guaranteed glacier and wildlife sightings, Phillips Cruises has become synonymous with world-class exploration of Alaska’s breathtaking fjords, icefields, and wildlife. To this day, it attracts visitors from around the globe, providing unforgettable experiences that showcase the natural wonders of the Last Frontier.
 

Since Bob’s passing in 2023, the family’s legacy has been carried forward by Casey and Ben Neumann, who have assumed leadership of both Grizzly’s Gifts and Phillips Cruises and Tours. As accomplished artists and visionaries in their own right, Casey and Ben bring their unique talents and perspectives to the businesses, ensuring that Bob’s spirit of creativity, excellence, and dedication continues to thrive. Their leadership is complemented by the invaluable contributions of their aunt, Cathy Jackson, who has managed and maintained Grizzly’s Gifts for more than three decades. Cathy’s artistic eye, unparalleled work ethic, and unwavering devotion to excellence have been instrumental in shaping the store’s identity and success. Together, they uphold the family’s commitment to providing every visitor with a genuine piece of Alaska and an unforgettable experience.