10 Reasons to Visit Seward
Deep Sea Fishing
Seward offers an abundance of options for halibut, salmon, rockfish and lingcod fishing. Most head out on a charter boat to ply the waters of the Gulf of Alaska. Later in July, shore fishing becomes popular as Seward’s famous Silver Salmon run hits Resurrection Bay.
Gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park
Established in 1980, Kenai Fjords National Park, is home to deep glacial fjords, blue green waters, towering ice and steep cliff faces. The park is primarily accessed by boat or helicopter, however, Exit Glacier is accessible by vehicle.
Wildlife & Glacier Cruises
One of the most popular ways to visit Kenai Fjords National Park is by tour boat. Tours are available into both Aialik Bay and Northwestern Fjords. More active travelers may enjoy combining a wildlife cruise with kayaking near a tidewater glacier in Kenai Fjords.
Kayaking
Kayaking is fun for everyone, even first-timers. Local outfitters have options in Resurrection Bay as short as three hours for those wanting to try something new. Longer day tour options are available and include hiking combos, visits to Fox Island or most exciting of all, paddling amongst ‘bergy bits’ in Kenai Fjords National Park. Really adventurous travelers can even choose to spend several days kayaking and camping in the park.
Waterfront
Strolling through Seward’s Small Boat Harbor will take you past commercial fishing boats, sail boats, charter fishing boats, wildlife cruise boats, and private touring vessels. Continue south from the harbor on the paved waterfront trail leading past relics from the 1964 Earthquake, campgrounds, the starting point of the famous Iditarod Trail and finishing at the Alaska Sealife Center.
Alaska Sealife Center
The Alaska Sealife Center is the perfect to hideaway on a rainy day or for families with children. Get up close and personal with sea lions, harbor seals, puffins, salmon and more!
Family Friendly Events
Seward hosts several events over the course of the year, the most notable being the Mount Marathon Race, dubbed the “Toughest 5k on the Planet” along with the 4th of July Celebration. Other popular events include the Mermaid Festival in May, Silver Salmon Derby in August, Music & Arts Festival in September, and the Polar Bear Jump Off in January.
Hiking & Bikingsew
Hiking in Seward can be as easy as a paved walk up to the toe of Exit Glacier, or as tough as following the same trail as the Toughest 5k in the World. There are many options in between with trails such as Tonsina Point, Grayling Lake or the Lost Lake Trail. Fat tire mountain biking is gaining popularity, with the Lost Lake Trail and Resurrection River Trails being most popular.
Restaurants & Night Life
Whether you’re ready for a plate of Alaska King Crab or you’d prefer a burger, Seward’s restaurants have you covered. Once your sated, head on out to check out live music at one of Seward’s bars and breweries.
Lodging & Camping
There is no shortage of options for lodging, including city campgrounds, hotels, cabins, B&B’s and high-end, all inclusive remote lodges. Whether you’re into roughing it, or getting pampered, you’ll find a perfect spot to rest your head. Be sure to book well in advance! Seward’s a popular destination, especially mid-summer, and it’s common for accommodations to sell out.