Seward, Alaska, is the quintessential coastal town you’ve been dreaming of. Named after William K. Seward, who negotiated the purchase of Alaska back in 1867, the oceanside community has become known as a gateway to the world-famous Kenai Fjords National Park.
On the shores of Resurrection Bay with the Gulf of Alaska beyond, the charming port town of Seward has the sort of seaside character earned over decades — restaurants brimming with local flavor, historic buildings, charming local shops and, of course, stunning Alaska scenery in every direction.
Whether you have a few hours or a few days, you’ll find an abundance of adventures awaiting you here. Here are a few things to do during your next visit to Seward, Alaska.
Explore far beyond the shorelines with Kenai Fjords Tours, Seward’s original glacier and wildlife cruise operator and your ride into Kenai Fjords National Park. Just minutes outside of town, this national park is packed with nature to experience. Hop aboard a tour and seize the chance to spot wildlife, towering glaciers and beautiful landscapes. Ranging from four to eight hours, you can spend an afternoon or full day getting familiar with some of Alaska’s most pristine and awe-inspiring places.
Looking to learn even more about Pacific marine life? At the Alaska Sealife Center, visitors can get up close and personal with puffins, Steller sea lions, seals, octopi and other iconic creatures. The multi-faceted facility is part public aquarium, part rehabilitation site and part research center, creating unprecedented learning and responsible viewing opportunities. Make your visit even more remarkable by booking an “Encounters” experience — offering behind the scenes access to marine mammals, puffins or octopus feeding.
Get your blood pumping and find a dose of adrenaline on any of the fun-filled activities around Seward. Head over to Adventure Sixty North for kayaking tours, fishing adventures, gold panning and more — perfect for family bonding and solo adventures. For more involved kayaking trips, ranging from half-day to multi-day experiences, head over to Sunny Cove Kayaking and explore the fjords like never before. If you visit in the winter, take advantage of the snow for a classic Alaska experience with Turning Heads Kennel’s dog tours — also available in the summer aboard a wheeled sled.
For outdoorsy explorers, Seward and its surrounding area have plenty of hikes for all experience levels — all with incredibly rewarding views at the end. For the beginner, start at Exit Glacier. The Glacier View Loop Trail is only one mile long from the Exit Glacier Nature Center (and wheelchair accessible).
Looking for a challenge? Hike to the top of Mount Marathon via the Runner’s Trail or the slightly easier Jeep Trail. Often touted as the toughest 5 kilometers on the planet, the strenuous trail raises you 3,022 feet in the air to get panoramic views of the city, waterfront and bay.
From local brews at Seward Brewing Company to fine dining at Ray’s Waterfront, this town is serving up something delicious come mealtime. Head over to Resurrection Roadhouse and dine on tasty casual and regional cuisine atop one of the few outdoor decks in the area. Or, if you’ve already planned to head over to Kenai Fjords Tours, opt for the Glacier Dinner Cruise to skip the waiting lists in town and enjoy your meal on board instead.
Did you know that Seward is one of Alaska’s oldest communities? The ice-free port town served as a hub of commerce and transportation long before settlers came to the area. Open from May 1 through most of September, you can head over to the Seward Museum for $5 (cash only) and explore the historical artifacts and photographs from long ago. Plus, bring another $5 for entry into the Waves Over Seward: The 1964 Earthquake film to learn about the most powerful earthquake ever recorded in North America and its influence on the town.
Don’t delay your adventure any longer. Book your stay at Seward Windsong Lodge today and explore everything Seward has to offer.
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