Seward, United States Guide
Seward, Alaska, nestled on the Kenai Peninsula, is a charming coastal town renowned for its stunning natural beauty and access to incredible Alaskan adventures. Surrounded by towering mountains, glaciers, and the pristine waters of Resurrection Bay, Seward serves as a gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park, offering unparalleled opportunities for wildlife viewing, glacier cruises, and kayaking. Beyond its natural wonders, Seward boasts a rich history as a vital port and railway terminus. Visitors can explore the historic downtown area, learn about the town's role in the Alaska Railroad, and immerse themselves in the local culture. With its friendly atmosphere, breathtaking scenery, and abundance of outdoor activities, Seward is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an authentic Alaskan experience.
Food & Cuisine
Seward's culinary scene is heavily influenced by its coastal location, with fresh seafood taking center stage. Expect to find an abundance of salmon, halibut, cod, and crab prepared in various ways, from classic fish and chips to gourmet seafood entrees. Ray's Waterfront is a popular choice for its stunning views and fresh seafood dishes. For a more casual experience, try the Cookery, known for its wood-fired pizzas and locally sourced ingredients. The Seward Brewing Company offers a selection of craft beers and pub fare. Don't miss the opportunity to sample some Alaskan smoked salmon or try a reindeer sausage for a truly unique culinary experience. While there isn't a dedicated public market, many local shops sell fresh seafood and other Alaskan specialties.
Nightlife
Seward's nightlife is relatively low-key, reflecting its small-town atmosphere. Most of the evening entertainment revolves around the downtown area, particularly along 4th Avenue. You'll find a selection of bars and pubs offering live music, karaoke, and a relaxed atmosphere. The Seward Brewing Company is a popular spot for craft beer enthusiasts. For a more lively experience, check out the local bars that often host live bands on weekends. While Seward doesn't have nightclubs, the focus is on enjoying the company of friends and fellow travelers in a casual and welcoming setting.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Seward is during the summer months, from June to August. This is when the weather is mildest, with average temperatures ranging from the 50s to the 60s Fahrenheit. The days are long, providing ample daylight for exploring the surrounding wilderness and participating in outdoor activities. This is also the peak season for wildlife viewing, with opportunities to see whales, seals, sea otters, and puffins. However, be prepared for crowds and higher prices during this time. Shoulder seasons, such as May and September, can also be pleasant, with fewer crowds and slightly lower prices, but the weather can be more unpredictable.
Transportation
While Seward is a walkable town, especially within the downtown area, transportation options are somewhat limited. There is no subway or tram system. A local bus service, the Seward Bus Line, provides limited routes within the city. Taxis and ride-sharing services are available, but their availability can be sporadic, especially during peak season. Many visitors rely on rental cars to explore the surrounding areas and access trailheads. Shuttle services are also offered by tour operators and hotels for specific activities and destinations.
Airport
The closest airport to Seward is Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC), located approximately 125 miles (201 kilometers) north of Seward. The most common way to travel from the airport to Seward is by rental car, which takes about 2.5 to 3 hours via the scenic Seward Highway. Alternatively, you can take a shuttle service, such as the Park Connection Motorcoach, which offers daily service between Anchorage and Seward during the summer months. The Alaska Railroad also provides train service between Anchorage and Seward, offering a unique and scenic travel experience.
Attractions
Exit Glacier
Exit Glacier is a popular hiking destination in Seward, offering stunning views of the glacier and surrounding mountains. Visitors can hike to the glacier's edge on well-maintained trails and learn about the effects of climate change on glaciers through interpretive signs along the way.
Mount Marathon
Mount Marathon is a challenging hiking trail that offers panoramic views of Seward and Resurrection Bay from its summit. The annual Mount Marathon Race, held on July 4th, attracts elite runners from around the world to compete in a grueling race to the top and back down.
Seward Waterfront Park
Seward Waterfront Park is a scenic park along the waterfront, offering walking paths, picnic areas, and views of the boats in the harbor. Visitors can relax by the water, watch for wildlife such as sea otters and seabirds, or enjoy a leisurely stroll with views of the surrounding mountains.
Resurrection Bay
Resurrection Bay is a picturesque bay in Seward known for its crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life, and stunning mountain scenery. Visitors can explore the bay on boat tours, kayak excursions, or fishing charters, taking in the beauty of Alaska's coastal wilderness.
Ididaride Sled Dog Tours
Ididaride Sled Dog Tours offers visitors the chance to experience a traditional Alaskan dog sled ride through the wilderness near Seward. Guests can meet the sled dogs, learn about mushing, and enjoy a thrilling ride through the snow-covered landscape with experienced guides leading the way.
Alaska Railroad
The Alaska Railroad offers scenic train rides from Seward to Anchorage, showcasing the beauty of Alaska's landscapes along the way. Visitors can relax in comfortable train cars, enjoy panoramic views of mountains, rivers, and wildlife, and learn about the history of the railroad in Alaska.
Alaska SeaLife Center
The Alaska SeaLife Center is an aquarium and marine research facility that showcases the marine life of Alaska. Visitors can see a variety of sea creatures, including sea lions, seals, and puffins, and learn about the center's conservation efforts through interactive exhibits and educational programs.
Kenai Fjords National Park
Kenai Fjords National Park is a stunning national park known for its glaciers, fjords, and abundant wildlife. Visitors can take boat tours to see marine wildlife such as whales, sea lions, and otters, as well as hike on various trails to see the park's natural beauty up close.
Bear Glacier
Bear Glacier is a massive tidewater glacier that can be seen from boat tours in Resurrection Bay. Visitors can witness the glacier calving into the water, creating spectacular ice formations and a unique opportunity to see the effects of climate change on glaciers up close.
Seward Boat Harbor
Seward Boat Harbor is a bustling marina where visitors can watch fishing boats come and go, book fishing charters, or take a scenic boat tour of Resurrection Bay. The harbor also has shops, restaurants, and galleries to explore, making it a lively waterfront destination.
Seward Community Library & Museum
The Seward Community Library & Museum is a cultural hub in Seward, showcasing the history and heritage of the region through exhibits, artifacts, and archives. Visitors can learn about the Native Alaskan cultures, the Gold Rush era, and the 1964 earthquake that devastated the town.
Day Trips
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Kenai Fjords National Park. These cruises offer breathtaking views of glaciers calving into the sea, playful sea otters, majestic whales breaching the surface, and a variety of seabirds soaring overhead. Choose from various cruise lengths and itineraries to tailor your experience. Some cruises include a stop at Fox Island for a delicious salmon bake.
Departure from Seward Harbor Get up close and personal with a receding glacier at Exit Glacier, part of Kenai Fjords National Park. A short, easy hike leads to stunning views of the glacier's face. The Nature Center provides informative exhibits about the glacier's history, the surrounding ecosystem, and the effects of climate change. Several trails of varying difficulty levels offer opportunities for further exploration.
15-minute drive from Seward Step back in time and explore a section of the historic Iditarod Trail in the charming town of Hope. This gold rush town offers a glimpse into Alaska's past. Hike a portion of the Iditarod Trail, visit the Hope and Sunrise Historical Society Museum, and enjoy the scenic beauty of Turnagain Arm. Keep an eye out for bore tides!
1 hour 45-minute drive from Seward Escape to the mountain town of Girdwood, home to Alyeska Resort. Ride the tram to the top of Mount Alyeska for panoramic views of Turnagain Arm and surrounding glaciers. Hike one of the many trails in the area, visit the Girdwood Forest Fair (in July), or simply relax and enjoy the mountain atmosphere.
1 hour 45-minute drive from Seward Get a guaranteed wildlife viewing experience at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. This sanctuary rescues and rehabilitates injured and orphaned Alaskan animals. See bears, moose, caribou, wolves, eagles, and more in a natural setting. The center provides educational programs and opportunities to learn about Alaska's diverse wildlife.
1 hour 30-minute drive from Seward While Portage Glacier is no longer visible from the Begich, Boggs Visitor Center, the area still offers stunning views of Portage Lake and surrounding mountains. The visitor center provides exhibits about glaciers and the Chugach National Forest. Take a boat tour on Portage Lake to see the glacier up close or hike one of the nearby trails.
1 hour 30-minute drive from Seward Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise
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Exit Glacier & Nature Center
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Iditarod National Historic Trail (Hope, Alaska)
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Girdwood & Alyeska Resort
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Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
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Portage Glacier & Begich, Boggs Visitor Center
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