Seward is a very popular, easily accessible town to get to from Anchorage. Consequently, I’ve been to Seward so many times that I’ve lost count! Weekend getaways, teacher professional development, girls’ trips, mountaintop concerts, showing my favorite people out-of-staters around, or even just a quick day-trip down for a hike- I’ve done it all and then some! No matter what your interests, time-frame, or budget, Seward has honestly got a little something for everybody. Below are a few of my favorites!
Kenai Fjords National Park
Kenai Fjords National Park is probably the most popular attraction in Seward, and in my opinion is also the easiest National Park to access in Alaska. That being said, there are a few different ways to experience the park.
As you enter the Seward city limits, you will see signs for the Exit Glacier Nature Center on your right, which is the only part of Kenai Fjords National Park that is accessible by road. Pay attention to the markers on the side of the road as you drive in- they are a visual indication of how Exit Glacier has receded over time! The Nature Center has more information about the ice field, which covers much of the southern Kenai Peninsula, stretching between Seward and Homer. There are also hiking trails, but keep an eye out- black bears love this area just about as much as the tourists!
Another great way to explore the park is on a Kenai Fjords boat tour, which is a great option if you have out of town visitors to entertain! I’ve been multiple times and will gladly go again in the future. They do a great job of balancing the sight-seeing and informational portions of the trip, plus they have the yummiest cookies! I’d also highly recommend their Fox Island dinner option. If you’re interested in reading more about Kenai Fjords and some National Park Adventures, check out my previous post here.
Hiking
When it comes to hikes, Seward offers enough variety that there’s a little something for everybody! Exit Glacier is a great starting point whether you’re a novice or looking for more of a challenge. The trail out to the viewpoint for Exit Glacier itself is pretty tame, but if you’re up for it, I’d highly recommend continuing on and exploring the Harding Ice Field hike! Lost Lake and Mount Marathon are also popular options, along with Tonsina Beach and Caines Head. I’ve only ever hiked Lost Lake in the winter, but it has incredible birds’ eye views looking down over Seward and out across Resurrection Bay.
“Downtown”
In my mind, there are two “downtown” areas in Seward. One is the harbor and the other is the main drag near the Sea Life center. Both have a fun mixture of shops, restaurants, and nooks and crannies to explore. I’d highly recommend breakfast at the Highliner, a smoothie from Nature’s Nectars, or a Sea Bean coffee. Better yet, take your coffee to go and wander around. Mermaid Co. Boutique is one of my favorite shops, plus there are lots of art galleries and beautiful murals scattered around town.
Millers Landing
Millers Landing is a practically a little town of its own and it’s well worth making the short drive out of Seward to check it out! I would highly recommend a sea kayaking tour, but there are also lots of beautiful spots to go beach combing if that’s more your pace. There are all sorts of quirky cabins out on the landing too if you’re looking for a unique place to stay, plus a few hiking trails to explore.
Camping
When it comes to camping, you have a couple of options. There are camping spots and cabins available out at Miller’s Landing, but my favorite camping option is an oceanfront spot in town. My first visit to Seward a few friends and I camped out right off of the beach during the Seward Music & Arts Festival. Waking up and stepping out of their camper van to a sunrise glow over Resurrection Bay was absolutely incredible.
Orca Islands
If you’re looking for something a little more secluded, I’d highly recommend some yurt glamping at Orca Island Cabins! They’re a quick boat ride out of Seward and offer a little slice of Alakan paradise.
Alaska Sealife Center
The Sea Life Center is a staple of any Seward visit. They are not just a public aquarium, but also a marine research, education, and wildlife response hub. It’s fun to follow along on their rescue and rehab journeys supporting wildlife, plus they partner with the offer programs and public education opportunities for kids and educators. I attended their Changing Tides workshop put on as a partnership with the National Park Service in 2017 and loved it. Teachers especially- check them out!
Events
In addition to educational opportunities, the Sealife Center hosts events throughout the year such as their Beers by the Bay fundraiser and the Seward Seabird Festival. Fourth of July attracts many people when the Mt. Marathon race takes place, and the Music & Arts Festival is held each fall. Be on the look out for fun Seward happenings, both annual and spontaneous. You never know, you may end up attending a mountaintop concert!
General Tips & Tricks
- Prepare for weather of all types! Layers are your friend, along with anything waterproof. Think small fishing town attire.
- Plan ahead. Seward is a super popular spot, and if you think you’re going to drive down last minute on Labor Day weekend and find a camping spot I have news for you…I’ve tried it, and you’ll need all varieties of luck on your side for success in those situations!
- On the note of planning for crowds, consider making the most of the “off-season.” I’ve been to Seward in the winter, fall, and early spring and those trips were just as fun as anything I’ve done in the summer.
- Don’t be afraid to slow down and enjoy the journey to Seward. If you’re driving from Anchorage there is so much to take in along the way!