Alaska’s tourist industry has been on the rise in recent years. In 2016 alone, over 1.8 million people visited the state.
Seward is a hot spot when it comes to tourism, and for good reason. Located just east of Kenai Fjords National Park on an inlet of the Kenai Peninsula, Seward boasts some of the state’s most breathtaking landscapes.
This is definitely a destination for nature lovers and outdoor thrill seekers. The only difficult part is deciding which Seward attractions you want to fit into your trip.
To help you out, we’re going over nine of the best things to do in Seward, Alaska. Let’s get started.
1. Take an Alaskan Dog Sled Tour
One of the most exciting ways to explore the scenic beauty of the town and surrounding area is on a dog sled tour. Dog sledding is the top sport in Alaska, so you’re in good hands.
The great thing about this activity is you can pick the type of tour you go on. The Seward coastline is amazing and the distant mountain ranges provide the perfect backdrop for your tour.
You can opt to take a wheeled sled through the thick wilderness or a ski sled tour around the Exit Glacier area. Regardless of the tour you choose, you’re sure to get your money’s worth.
2. The Alaska SeaLife Center
If you want to get a glimpse into the wildlife that inhabits this region, a visit to the Alaska SeaLife Center is a must. This facility is both a rehabilitation center and research institute.
Get up close and personal with a wide range of marine animals, including seals, sea lions, fish, and crabs. You can also view different types of local birds and other marine life.
Take a guided tour and learn about Alaska’s ecosystem while interacting with the animals. All proceeds go towards animal rescue and research.
3. Hiking at Mount Marathon
If you crave an outdoor adventure and a bit of a workout, consider hiking up Mount Marathon. This is a great way to get the blood pumping and also take in the town of Seward and Resurrection Bay from above.
If your trip falls on the Fourth of July, you can compete in Alaska’s famous race that starts in downtown Seward and takes runners up Mount Marathon and down the backside. This race is lots of fun, but only for those who don’t mind getting muddy.
Any other time you can hike the mountain at your own pace and enjoy the surrounding landscape.
4. Take in the Scenery from a Train
From Seward, take a day trip to Anchorage aboard the Alaska Railroad Coastal Classic. This is no ordinary train ride.
Many people opt to drive to Anchorage from Seward. However, taking the train means you’ll get off the beaten path and see landscapes you can’t access with a car.
This is truly a once in a lifetime experience.
Weaving through the mountains, you’ll get a chance to take in the vast wilderness. You’ll pass glaciers, alpine meadows, and see all types of wildlife.
Make sure you don’t forget your camera.
5. Whale Watching
Seeing a whale breach the surface of the water right in front of you is awe-inspiring. You’ve probably seen videos of this, but they don’t do it justice.
There are a number of whale watching tours throughout the Kenai Fjords National Park. Depending on the season, you may see several different species of whales. You may also run into wild sea otters.
You can choose from short, three-hour tours or take a more extensive, all-day excursion. There’s no shortage of boat tours in the area.
6. Check out the Glaciers in Resurrection Bay
Here’s another activity for the adventurer. From Seward, you can travel south into Resurrection Bay to embark on an unforgettable kayak tour.
These guided tours will outfit you with all the gear you need and take you by boat to where you’ll set off in kayaks. You’ll explore the area around Bear Glazier and paddle around enormous icebergs.
You’ll also have the opportunity to see wildlife such as sea otters, seals, and even whales if you’re lucky. Once you’re done, you’ll travel by boat back through Resurrection Bay.
7. Travel into the Past at the Seward History Museum
If you want to learn about the culture of the town and its rich past, a visit to the Seward History Museum won’t disappoint. Here, you’ll learn about the region’s first inhabitants along with the rise of different industries that helped establish Seward as a popular destination.
The museum, which is located in the Seward Community Library, is a perfect break when you need to recuperate from all the outdoor activity. It’s also great for the whole family.
They offer a section for kids and daily screenings of documentaries that will take you back in time to events such as the 1964 Good Friday Earthquake and Tsunami.
8. Enjoy Fresh Seafood at Downtown Eateries
If you’re a seafood lover, downtown Seward Alaska is where you want to be. The commercial fishing industry is huge here, so you’ll enjoy some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever eat.
The restaurants in the downtown area are perfect for King Crab, oysters, and Alaskan halibut. Check out Ray’s Waterfront, The Cookery, and Chinooks Restaurant, to name a few.
9. Helicopter Tours
The landscape surrounding Seward is vast. Even after taking it all in from a dog sled, kayak, and on foot, you still haven’t scratched the surface of this beautiful region.
What better way to fully understand how breathtaking the scenery is than from a helicopter tour? You’ll fly over mountains, glaciers, and valleys. You can even take a tour that includes a glacier landing.
Consider ending your visit to Seward with a helicopter tour. The memory will stay with you forever.
Consider These Things to Do in Seward Alaska
When you arrive in Seward, you’ll realize right away you made the right vacation choice. The region offers countless activities, all easily accessible from the downtown area.
Use this list of things to do in Seward Alaska when planning your itinerary. You’re sure to have the time of your life.
We offer professional dog sledding tours throughout the year. Contact us to book today.
