Heading to Seward Alaska and wondering what you need to know.?You are in the right place. I adore Alaska and have traveled there many times so let me be your guide around this stunning area.
Seward is mainly known as the gateway to the Kenai Fjords National Park.
I’ll go through all the basics like the weather in Seward, how to travel to the location and things you need to know about visiting Alaska.
For me, this place is a perfect mix of mountains, glaciers, wildlife, amenities, and entertainment. So get comfy and let’s take a journey together around Seward AK.
If this is your first time in Alaska and you are in the planning stages take a look at my 9 Things To Know Before Traveling To Alaska it will help you no end.
Seward Alaska: 13 Things To Know Before Visiting
Seward Is A Port Town Located In Southern Alaska
This town is situated about 120 miles south of Anchorage in southern Alaska. It is located on Resurrection Bay on the Kenai Peninsula.
It is one of Alaska’s oldest communities and to me, it’s one of the most scenic towns I went to in the area. I feel it has an Alaskan charm all of its own.
It’s a mix of shopping, restaurants, cruise tourists, and an old fishing industry. There are so many things to do in Seward Alaska, much more than you think.
Seward: Take A Self-Guided Audio Tour.
Road Tripping Is A Great Way To Travel To Seward Alaska
When I went to Seward it was part of a road trip I was doing around Alaska.
I love road-tripping in this area as it allows you to enjoy the breathtaking scenery all along the Seward Highway from the comfort of your car or RV.
We found it was about a 3-hour drive from Anchorage and was easygoing by Alaskan terms. But if I was you I’d allow a little more time so you can stop to view the jaw-dropping beauty along the way.
Of course, there are other ways to arrive here, but for me driving in on that scenic byway is an experience you don’t want to miss out on.
If you do travel on the byway, here are some of the Best Stops Along The Seward Highway From Anchorage To Seward
Try An Adventure –Snowmobile and Snowshoe Dual Adventure from Seward, AK
Train Travel Is A Great Option To Get To Seward Alaska
While I did not arrive by train the Alaska Railroad is another form of transport that will allow you to enjoy the scenery.
The Anchorage to Seward Alaska trip follows along the Seward Highway for a portion of the way.
Then it climbs into the mountains where you will see things that those riding in cars or busses do not have the opportunity to see.
The trip takes 4 hours and 20 minutes, and there is only one departure out of Anchorage every morning to Seward Alaska. The train only runs from mid-May to mid-September so keep that in mind.
From Seward: 4-hour Wilderness Hiking Tour
Traveling By Bus Is Very Budget Friendly
Traveling by bus is the best of both worlds. The ride is about three hours, and you have the opportunity to relax and see the sights while someone else does the driving for you.
Ticket prices are reasonable and you can purchase a round trip (always a bit more economical) or a one-way ticket.
My advice is to make sure you check the prices and schedule so you know exactly how to plan your journey.
From Seward: Resurrection River Rafting Tour
Rent A Car For More Flexibility
When I traveled I had my vehicle. but you can of course rent a car.
Beware if you are making a one-way trip most rental firms will charge a hefty fee to leave the car in Seward Alaska.
If you are traveling one way it might be cheaper to get the train or the bus although less convenient.
Moose Pass: Kayak Rental on Glacial Trail Lake
Arrive In Style By Cruise Ship
Most people visiting Alaska arrive at Seward by cruise ship.
An Alaskan cruise is still one of the things on my bucket list so if you are on one I’m slightly jealous. Seward tends to be the first or last port on many trips.
My advice is to arrive a few days early or tag some time on to the end of your vacation as you will want to spend a few days here.
If you are going on an Alaskan cruise here is my cruise packing list.
Seward: Resurrection Bay and the Kenai Fjords Orca Cruise
Seward Alaska’s Temperature Is Mild
You might be surprised, as I was, but the weather in Seward tends to be on the milder side. This is one of the reasons I love this place so much.
In the summer months, you will find the temperature in the mid 60’s.
The spring will see you anywhere from the 30’s to 50’s. September is still fairly mild and the temperature doesn’t begin to drop into minus figures until November.
The winter months will see you in minus figures but we are talking more warm layers than full-on ski-style outfits.
Snowmobile and Snowshoe Dual Adventure from Seward, AK
The Scenery of Seward Is Breathtaking
The one reason why I have been here several times is that this area is that the Seward Peninsula is stunning. Seward AK is considered the ‘gateway’ to the Kenai Fjords National Park.
This is one of those magical places where the mountains and the ocean touch each other. However many times I visit there it still takes my breath away.
And to make it even more majestic it is surrounded by snow-capped mountains. What more could you wish for?
Seward is one of the best places to visit in Alaska in my opinion.
From Seward: Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise with Lunch
Do Not Miss Out Seeing Exit Glacier
If you are wondering if a trip to Exit Glacier is worth the bother, take it from me, it is. It is one of the top things to do in Alaska.
Exit Glacier is one of Kenai Fjords National Park’s most popular attractions. Unlike some other Alaskan attractions, this one is easily accessible to the public.
The glacier is located just a few miles north of town off the Seward Highway, and at the end of an 8-mile spur road (clearly marked off the Seward Highway.)
There you will find Exit Glacier’s parking lot and Nature Center.
If you don’t have a car no worries. There are many tours available and the bus is surprisingly reliable.
There is no cell service here so make sure you have access to all the information you need before your journey starts.
You will want to make use of the bathrooms just to the right of the Nature Center before you head on out to explore Exit Glacier.
Also, dress accordingly for the weather and location. When I went I saw a lot of people having problems with inappropriate clothing and footwear.
Exit Glacier Ice Hiking Adventure from Seward
Taking A Glacier And Wildlife Cruise In Seward Alaska Is A Must
Wherever I go I always try and do a local tour and learn about the wildlife flora and fauna of the region. And in Seward Alaska, this experience is like nothing on earth.
My trip came accompanied by whales, puffins, sea lions, and cute little sea otters. All with a backdrop of glaciers moving, breaking, and falling. It’s quite spectacular.
I have been on two scenic wildlife cruises when visiting Seward Alaska.
One was a half-day 4-hour cruise, and my last cruise was the Full Day 7.5 hour Kenai Fjords National Park Tour, both with Major Marine Tours.
Several companies run trips for the harbor and it’s down to time and budget available, plus what you are most interested in seeing.
I booked in advance to save disappointment and you often find these trips more expensive if you book them on the day. I can’t say enough times this is one of the best things to do in Seward Alaska.
If you haven’t got time for a full tour you can take water taxis around the bay.
From Seward: Half-Day Resurrection Bay Wildlife Cruise Tour
Flightseeing Over Seward Is Unforgettable
If a boat trip isn’t your thing then how about a helicopter? I was so apprehensive about a helicopter ride but it was one of the best things I did while I was there.
I took a 30-minute Glacier Tour with Marathon Helicopters on my last visit to Seward Alaska. Mike, the owner of Marathon Helicopters was very reassuring. Lift-off, flying and landings were all so smooth.
Surprisingly I was not afraid, and I did not suffer from any motion sickness. I’m so glad I pushed through my anxiety as landing on a glacier is still one of my top experiences.
Let me tell you there is nothing whatsoever that can match seeing the crystal clear blue waters of Resurrection Bay, the lush green forested mountains, and the incredible glaciers from the air.
It was an unforgettable experience. I would highly recommend you consider a flightseeing experience during your trip. It’s one of the more unique Alaskan experiences.
From Seward: Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise with Lunch
Seward Is Famous For A Summertime Event
While most of us know Seward for its incredible beauty this bustling town does have some other noteworthy events.
On the 4th July one of the oldest mountain races in North American takes place here. The Mt. Marathon Race is a race of 3 miles with an elevations of 3000 feet. The town goes all out for this.
So if you are visiting Alaska around this time go and see what its all about.
From Seward: Kenai River Guided Packrafting Trip with Gear
The Town Has A Lot To Offer
I have spent days exploring this town and believe me there is so much to do. Most just head for the Kenai Fjords National Park and miss the town out completely which is sad as it has a lot to offer.
There are two main areas, the area around the harbor which is where you will find all the shops. restaurants and Seward Alaska hotels and downtown which is about 1.5 miles from the harbor.
You will also find the Alaska Sea Life Marine Research And Wildlife Rehabilitation Center where they release many of the animals back to the wild.
For those that like walking the Seward Waterfront Trail connects the sea life center and the harbor and is a beautiful walk along the shore of Resurrection Bay through Waterfront Park, which is also worth a visit.
What surprised me most about Seward though is that it is the the ‘Mural Capital of Alaska,’ There are over 30 murals around the town each painted by a different local artist.
And the Seward Museum is also worth a visit on a rainy day. The most interesting exhibition is the cow rain coat, yes you did here that correctly. This is one of the things to do in Seward Alaska.
There are so many things to do in Alaska and a visit to this Alaskan town is one of them.
Seward Alaska Hotels
Harbor 360 Hotel Seward
The Harbor 360 Hotel Seward is right on the harbor and offers stunning views of Resurrection Bay and the surrounding Kenai Mountain.
There is an indoor pool, hot tub and spacious bedrooms. This is also one of the few all year round resorts. .
Click here to see photos of Harbor 360 Hotel Seward
Orca Island Cabins
For something a little different the Orca Island Cabins offers yurts on a private island. If you are looking for something special this is it.
The cabins are located on an island in Humpy Cove, Resurrection Bay and each yurt is waterfront and has a deck and mountain views.
Kayaks, paddleboats and row boats are provided and there is a water taxi service to the yurts.
Click here to see pictures of Orca Island Cabins.
Seward Windsong Lodge
For that real Alaskan experience Seward Windsong Lodge is the place to stay. Nestled among the trees along the Resurrection River with views of the nearby Chugach Mountains.
The Resurrection Roadhouse Restaurant serves breakfast lunch and dinner as as you would expect has excellent seafood.
The lodge offers free transport service to and from the Seward train depot, the Seward Small Boat Harbor, and downtown areas.
Click here for pictures of Seward Windsong Lodge.
Packing Tips For Your Trip To Seward Alaska
I hope my tips will keep you organized while in Seward, Alaska. Packing lightly will make your travels easier.
This unisex RFID blocking concealed travel pouch is lightweight and comes in several colors.
These RFID sleeves would be handy to prevent identity theft.
This Anker high-speed phone charging battery is the exact one I carry with me on all of my trips.
My daughter gifted me with this FugeTek Selfie Stick and Tripod for my birthday. It has Bloothtooth connectivity so it is very easy to use.
These Bagail packing cubes are the exact ones I use whenever I travel.
And this world traveler adapter kit can charge several devices at the same time.
I never leave home on a trip without my Bobble filtration bottle. The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for travel and it fits nicely in the pocket of a backpack or your purse.
And the replaceable carbon filter ensures fresh clean water whenever you fill the Bobble.
This foldable water-resistant backpack is very affordable and is available in many color options.
This antitheft backpack has a charging port, is water-resistant and can comfortably carry up to a 15.6″ laptop.
You will be walking more than usual when in Alaska. A pair of sturdy and comfortable walking shoes are a must-have. These waterproof all-season shoes are extremely affordable and yet fashionable.
Mostly everyone is familiar with the Skechers brand, and these Air Run high fashion sneakers come in a lot of colors to match your outfits and are still affordable.
If you are visiting Alaska in warmer weather, maybe you want a pair of sandals to wear to dinner or to the local cafe, I highly recommend these Vionics adjustable strap orthotic sandals.
These unisex polarized sunglasses come in a lot of lens colors and frame designs and are extremely affordable too.
If you are fond of the aviator-style of sunglasses these polarized aviators may interest you.
If you are in need of new luggage, this expandable soft side spinner luggage is affordable and comes in lots of colors.
If you like hard-sided better, then you may favor this hard-sided luggage set better. Both sets come with TSA locks and 8 wheels per piece.
I never travel without TSA-approved locks.
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Alaska Cruise Packing List: Perfect For Any Time Of Year
Ruth Murdoch
What a fabulous post, thanks. The photos are breathtaking and I do want to go.
I also landed on a glacier, Tasman Glacier in New Zealand. The helicopter was red and it stood out against the white of the snow. One of my most magical memories ever!
Linda Malys Yore
My glacier helicopter was red too! Must be a thing worldwide in case of emergency? Will be easier to locate? Thank you for your kind comments.
Darcee Thompson
I want to move to Alaska SO badly. I have for years. Do you have any recommendations beyond visiting? Your pictures and visiting advice are awesome by the way!
Linda Malys Yore
Wow. That would be so cool! I would say consider how you will be making money and perhaps zero in on cities or small towns that can accommodate your talents. Also, consider the weather. Way up north like Fairbanks def has different weather year-round than Seward or Homer, with their temperate climates. Good luck to you. I wish you all the best!