Best Things To Do In Seward Alaska

Enjoying a picturesque location nestled between mountains and the ocean, there are plentiful things to do in Seward AK during your stay. This charming seaside town is on the doorstep of beautiful panoramas, where ice, forests, mountains and ocean meet.

Activities in Seward Alaska include amazing wildlife encounters, hiking stunning trails and fishing the rich waters of Kenai Fjords.

Seward represents coastal Alaska, scenic, remote, with pristine wilderness. Attractions in Seward attract adventurous travelers keen to explore the historic community, and discover rocky bays and glacial waters as they cruise Kenai Fjords.

Join us as we share some of the best and unique things to do in Seward.

WHY IS SEWARD SO SPECIAL?

Seward is the ancestral homeland of the Aluutiiq/Sugpiaq people and has been shaped by glaciers. The quintessential town is surrounded by dramatic mountains and is home to under 3,000 year-round residents.

With its location within easy access of the road system and its gateway to stunning Kenai Fjords National Park, you will soon see that Seward offers so much to so many all in one place.

Whatever your travel style and type of adventures you seek, Seward will deliver on all its promises.

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EXCITING THINGS TO DO IN SEWARD

1. CRUISING KENAI FJORDS NATIONAL PARK

Probably THE most popular Seward AK attractions involve a boat tour. The best way to experience the amazing marine wildlife in Kenai Fjords National Park, is to venture out on the water.

The Park spans over 600,000 acres outside of Seward and was set up to protect this incredible wilderness in 1980. With 60% of the park covered in snow and ice and the mammoth 936 square-mile Harding Icefield lining the edge of the park you are definitely in for a memorable experience.

With numerous half and full-day tours available, you have chance to see wonderful wildlife and epic tidewater glaciers. The further you venture into the park, the more you can see.

Picture stunningly craggy coastlines, sea otters, puffins and orcas, spouting humpback whales, porpoises, sea otters, Steller sea lions, and seabirds all making cameo appearances.

Throw in sweeping bald eagles, spectacular glaciers and stunning fjords and you can see why these tours are top Seward Alaska tourist attractions!

If you are visiting Seward to do a boat tour be sure to book ahead. We had an amazing day trip seeing humpback whales and a pod of orcas amongst other marine mammals!

2. VISIT ALASKA SEALIFE CENTER

one of the great things to do in Seward is visit Alaska sealife center — wildlife rehabilitation and marine research facility

Seward attractions for the whole family don’t come much better than a visit to Alaska SeaLife Center.

The center rescues and rehabilitates injured marine animals, with most being successfully released back into the wild.

A series of two-story glass-sided tanks allow you to get great above & below views of the mammals.

A hands-on aquarium, it boasts close-up views of diving puffins, swimming sea lions, and giant octopus. With daily feedings, encounters and behind-the-scene tours, this is a great family attraction.

LOCATION: 301 Railway Avenue

3. WALK AROUND HISTORIC DOWNTOWN SEWARD

memorial lighthouse — Memorial Lighthouse

As one of Alaska’s oldest communities, Seward’s ice-free port has long served as a natural gateway to Alaska’s resource-rich interior. Take a walk downtown to discover historical highlights, dating back to the region’s First Peoples.

Seward Historical Walking Tour has 26 signs, depicting different events and buildings history.

resurrect art coffee house — Resurrect Art Coffee House

Begin at 239 Sixth Avenue, Seward Community Library & Museum where you can pick up a map for the honorary start of the Seward Historic Walking Tour. Some stops that stood out for us are:

302 Church Street | Resurrect Art Coffee House – This old Methodist church has been preserved occupied as a thriving community café. (Sign: Dreaming and Connecting)
308 Adams Street | Van Gilder Hotel, 1916 – This beautiful historic hotel, said to be haunted and on the National Register of Historic Places, has played host to a legendary pinochle game, ghosts, and famous pilots. (Sign: Games, Ghosts, and History)
209 Fourth Avenue | Brown & Hawkins, 1904 – The oldest continuously operated business in Seward which provided provisions to pioneers and became the first bank and telegraph office in Seward. (Sign: A 100 Year Family Affair)
1200 Fourth Avenue | Seward Mariners’ Memorial – Not only honoring the names of mariners lost at sea or who have passed on after a lifetime of love for the ocean, but also a lovely place to sit enjoying the views.

4. GET UP-CLOSE VIEWS OF EXIT GLACIER

Exit Glacier Alaska — Exit Glacier seen from the trail

Hiking Exit Glacier Overlook Trail is one of the most popular things to do in Seward Alaska. When a glacier is as accessible as this one is from the car park, you would be missing out if this trail wasn’t on your Itinerary.

Located in Kenai Fjords National Park, you can choose from the wheelchair-accessible Glacier View Loop Trail at 1 mile return, or walk a further 0.6 miles for wowing views.

Both trails begin at the side of the visitor center, and guide you through a cottonwood forest ending with panoramic vistas of Exit Glacier, spilling down Harding Icefield.

Exit Glacier Guides located in downtown, offers a naturalist hike and ice climbing trips to Exit Glacier.

Read More Here: HOW TO HIKE EXIT GLACIER IN ALASKA

5. HIKE THE HARDING ICEFIELD TRAIL

Hiking is a great way to enjoy panoramic views and mountain vistas. One of the more strenuous Seward activities is the 8.2 mile Harding Icefield Trail.

This mammoth Icefield feeds Exit Glacier among others and the 3000′ gain to get to Marmot Meadows and beyond is totally worth the sweat.

You are rewarded with stunning views across the valley and Exit Glacier and the walk makes a spectacular day hike.

Seward has its traditions just like other towns and one of the things to do in Seward Alaska in July is take part in the Mount Marathon Race. An Independence Day tradition, the race is regarded as one of the hardest short-distance mountain races in the world.

The strenuous race comes with a 3,000′ gain, a steep descent and a return length of 5 miles!

6. EXPLORE SEWARD WATERFRONT PARK

Founders monument in Seward Waterfront park — Founders Monument

Extending from the small boat harbor to Alaska SeaLife center is Seward Waterfront Park. Follow the paved coastal path at mile 5 and follow the shoreline past six separate camping areas. Watch out for wildlife as you read plaques detailing Seward’s history.

As you pass the beach you can spot sea otters, harbor seals, sea otters, sea birds and bald eagles. Sometimes you can even spot a whale!

The path follows the route of the original Iditarod National Historic Trail, ending at mile 0, at the south-eastern corner of the downtown waterfront.

The shoreline views of Resurrection Bay and the mountains are spectacular. Watch out for the following historical markers along the way, if you can peel your eyes from the view!

The Founder’s Monument honoring John Ballaine, Seward’s founder, and the landing party which arrived on August 28, 1903.
The bustling waterfront area housed docks, warehouses and railroad tracks until 1964.
Mile 0 of the Historic Iditarod Trail and the Old Railroad Depot.

7. CHECK ALL THE WONDERFUL MURALS

for fun things to do in Seward, go on a mural walk — Part of 2 murals named “Senior Prom” by Barbara Lavallee

One of the unique things to do in Seward is all thanks to a group of local artists, who back in 1999, began painting murals around the town.

Their energetic and enthusiastic spirit has led to over 35 unique historical characters and events being painted to celebrate Alaska’s beauty.

Commissioned by local individuals and businesses, they add a delightful charm to your stroll around town. A map can be downloaded to pinpoint the location of each painting, and is accompanied by the name of the artist/s.

The group have evolved into a Mural Society and their true sense of community can certainly be felt as you view each amazing painting.

LOCATION: Around town

8. TAKE A TOUR

You will find a tour to match everyone’s taste in Seward. Hikers can explore a glacier, wildlife lovers can cruise Kenai Fjords National Park while adventure seekers can take a flightseeing tour.

For those looking for something else, they can kayak in Resurrection Bay, try ziplining or goldpanning. Whether it’s a half or full day, find your perfect tour from the choice below:

SEA KAYAKING: Get up close to wildlife with Kenai Fjords Tours
ZIPLING: Why not join a canopy tour featuring eight ziplines, three suspension bridges and two rappels, with Stoney Creek Canopy Adventures. (3hours | $149)
DOG SLEDDING TOUR: Go behind the scenes at Turning Heads Kennel with two dog sled veterans who have both run the 1,000 mile Iditarod Race.
WHALE WATCHING: Who doesn’t want to see whales in the ocean! Major Marine Tours offer great 4 hour half-day cruises.
FLIGHTSEEING: The port of Seward’s close proximity to Chugach National Forest and Kenai Fjords National Park makes it one of the more diverse places to fly. How about a 30 minute helicopter flight to Bear Glacier, the largest glacier in Kenai Fjords National Park.

9. SHOP IN ART GALLERIES & GIFT SHOPS

Things to do in Seward include browsing art galleries — Cobble Company have amazing prints to choose from

If you are wondering what to do in Seward on a rainy day, why not browse the gift shops for arts and crafts from Alaskan artists. A leisurely walk up Fourth Avenue gives you a sense of the town’s historical frontier culture.

Inside the Old West storefronts are a range of ceramics, pottery, tweeds, stunning art and a whole host of treasures. Some great places to check out are:

Resurrect Art Coffee House – 320 3rd Avenue
Forests, Tides & Treasures – 1313 4th Avenue
Alaska Sealife Center Gift Shop
Cobble Company Incorporated – 207 Fourth Avenue Brown & Hawkins Building

10. GO FISHING

fishing in seward — The day’s haul being cleaned and cut

For those looking for a full Alaskan experience, one of the best things to do in Seward is to go fishing. The pristine waters of the Kenai Peninsula offer a diversity of species to catch, including rockfish, lingcod, halibut and all five varieties of Pacific salmon.

With an array of fishing charters in Seward to choose from, you really are spoilt for choice. From choosing tours that target a particular fish, to half-day or full-day tours, you will be sure of a great time.

Charters typically provide all fishing gear, with options to fillet, freeze and ship your catch home for you.

The town is synonymous with fishing and every August, the city holds a Seward Silver Salmon Derby with winners catching the largest silver salmon, splitting the prize money.

If you decide to go fishing in Seward, some reputable operators include Alaska Northern Outfitters, ProFish-n-sea Charters and Alaska Coastal Explorer.

11. STROLL AROUND SEWARD SMALL BOAT HARBOR

If you are hoping to see some wildlife, you will definitely be in luck at Seward Small boat Harbor. The saltwater lagoon connecting to resurrection Bay is a haven for local fish, Stellar sea lions and seals.

Stroll around the docks to see charter boats, sailboats and fishing boats. The harbor is also lined with restaurants, coffee takeout’s, shops and local businesses.

Plus you will also see “Pony Cove” mural illustrating the typical summer fishing scene at Pony Cove at the mouth of Resurrection Bay. It was commissioned by the Fish House, which books many of the charter fishing trips in the bay.

It is located on the curved, south end of The Fish House (Bay Trader’s True Value Store).

12. TAKE A DAY TRIP ON ALASKA RAILROAD

A great way to fit Seward into your itinerary is by taking a day trip from Anchorage on the train. The Alaska Railroad’s Coastal Classic Train runs from Anchorage to Seward with views of Turnagain Arm.

Departing Anchorage at 6.45am, you arrive into Seward at 11.15am which gives you a full day to explore before your return to Anchorage at 6pm. It’s an easy 10 minute stroll to the small boat yard

The train depot is located at 408 Port Avenue.

Read More: BEST THINGS TO DO IN ANCHORAGE ALASKA

PLANNING TIPS FOR YOUR VISIT

WHERE IS SEWARD ALASKA?

Seward is nestled between Resurrection Bay and the Kenai Mountains, serving as the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park. The charming coastal town is is situated on Alaska’s southern coast, only a few hours by road from Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city.

GETTING TO THE CITY OF SEWARD

If you are arriving in town using your own vehicle or car rental vehicles, here are some relevant driving distances to take into account. With a driving time from Anchorage to Seward of 2.5 hours, it makes for a great overnight trip.

Alaska Railroad offers a relaxing way to enjoy the sights without driving during mid-May to mid-September. Seward is also a popular cruise ship port and maybe included in your Alaska itinerary.

BEST TIME TO VISIT SEWARD

Seward Alaska Summer between Mid-May and Mid-September, is the perfect time of year to plan your trip. With the long days of sunlight and warmer temperatures, you have plenty of time for hiking, exploring glaciers and seeing wildlife.

As a coastal temperate rainforest, Seward can get rainy days even in the summer, although there is less rain in the first part of the summer.

Most businesses are open and boat tours are up and running.

WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE IN SEWARD?

Weather can be unpredictable but don’t let that dampen your spirit, that’s what cozy coffee shops are for 🙂

HOW MANY DAYS DO YOU NEED IN SEWARD ALASKA?

We recommend at least two full days to really appreciate this mountain town. But don’t worry if you only have limited time. Here’s some suggestions for you:

ONE DAY: Take a half-day boat tour of Kenai Fjords National Park, hike Exit Glacier trail and wander around downtown.
TWO DAYS: Enjoy a full-day wildlife & glacier cruise on day one followed by a stroll around the harbor and dinner. On Day two either hike Harding Icefield Trail or visit Alaska SeaLife Center in the morning and hike Exit Glacier in the afternoon.
THREE DAYS PLUS: Enjoy additional tours such as Kayaking out of Lowell Point or Fox Island, fishing or a helicopter flight.

LODGING IN SEWARD ALASKA

RV site in Seward — KOA site on Exit Glacier Road

If you are looking for options for lodging in Seward you will be pleased to know that visitors can choose from a wide range of accommodation.

Do you want large hotels overlooking the water, small boutique hotels and lodges downtown, waterfront cabins, or B&Bs. Or maybe you plan on camping in Seward and need a campground or RV park.

If you want to pick the right Seward lodging for you, we have some options for you to check out:

HOTELS IN SEWARD

Harbor 360 Hotel Seward – Located on the waterfront of the Seward Small Boat Harbor, with stunning 360 degree views of Resurrection Bay and the surrounding Kenai Mountains. Check prices here
Gateway Hotel – Great location downtown, the hotel has mountain views, and guests can enjoy access to a sun terrace. Check prices here
Sea Treasure Inn – Conveniently situated for all attractions. Check prices here.

B&B’S IN SEWARD

The Vue B&B -Top location on 3rd Avenue with a barbecue and sun terrace. Check prices here.
Arctic Paradise B&B – A charming location 3 minutes walk to the beach. Check prices here.

CABINS IN SEWARD

Alaska Creekside Cabins in Seward – For a completely different experience and a chance to spot wildlife. Check prices here.
Resurrection Lodge on the Bay – This property is 2 minutes walk from the beach, facing the beachfront in Seward. Check prices here.

SEWARD CAMPING & RV SITES

There are plenty of camping options right in town including several campgrounds and RV parks. Note that some of these have to be booked online. Sites are at Harborside, Marathon RV Park, Williams Park, Stoney Creek RV Park, Resurrection North Campground. Check out availability at the Visitor Center.

RESTAURANTS IN SEWARD ALASKA

For a small town Seward steps up when it comes to places to eat and drink. Some restaurants have great waterfront settings and some cafes are perfect for escaping the rain. Here are some of our favourites:

Resurrection Art Coffee House set in a beautiful old church with yummy rustic baked goods. Grab a cozy seat upstairs and nurse your coffee for as long as you can.
Zudy’s Cafe makes great sandwiches and has a lovely setting overlooking the water.
Seward Brewing Company has burgers, pizza and tacos served with SBC beer from May – September.
Chinooks Waterfront Restaurant serves superb fresh seafood located right on Seward’s waterfront.

12 BEST THINGS TO DO IN SEWARD: COMPLETE GUIDE