Things to do in Seward
Shore excursions in Seward, Alaska, offer a diverse array of outdoor adventures, showcasing the region’s stunning natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and rich history. As the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park, Seward is a prime destination for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. Whether you’re arriving by cruise ship or making a stop during a road trip, the available excursions cater to a wide range of interests and activity levels.
One of the most popular excursions is a wildlife and glacier cruise through Resurrection Bay and the Kenai Fjords. These boat tours provide a chance to see dramatic glaciers, including the tidewater Holgate Glacier, and observe a variety of wildlife such as orcas, humpback whales, sea otters, and puffins. The landscape is breathtaking, with towering cliffs, lush forests, and sparkling waters.
For those who prefer land-based activities, hiking in the area is a must. The Exit Glacier hike is particularly popular, offering accessible trails and stunning views of the glacier up close. Adventurous travelers can join guided hikes on the Harding Icefield Trail, a challenging trek that rewards participants with panoramic views of vast ice fields and surrounding mountains.
Seward is also known for fishing and kayaking excursions. Deep-sea fishing charters provide opportunities to catch halibut, salmon, and other prized fish, while kayaking tours allow visitors to paddle along the rugged coastline, exploring hidden coves and spotting wildlife.
Animal lovers will appreciate visits to the Alaska SeaLife Center, a marine research facility where you can learn about Alaskan marine life and conservation efforts. With so many options, shore excursions in Seward offer a memorable experience for every type of traveler.
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About Seward, Alaska
Seward, Alaska, has a rich and diverse history that reflects the natural beauty and strategic importance of its location. Named after William H. Seward, the U.S. Secretary of State who negotiated the purchase of Alaska from Russia in 1867, the town was founded in 1903 as the southern terminus of the Alaska Railroad. Its location on the shores of Resurrection Bay, a naturally ice-free harbor, made it an ideal port for trade and transportation, linking the interior of Alaska to the outside world.
Seward’s development was closely tied to the construction of the Alaska Railroad. In the early 1900s, as construction crews worked to build the rail line from Seward to Fairbanks, the town quickly grew into a vital supply and transportation hub. The railroad brought an influx of settlers, miners, and traders, and the town prospered as a gateway to the resource-rich interior of Alaska.
In 1923, President Warren G. Harding visited Seward to drive the ceremonial golden spike, marking the completion of the Alaska Railroad. This event solidified Seward’s role as a key player in the economic development of Alaska.
Seward’s history also includes moments of hardship. The 1964 Good Friday Earthquake, one of the most powerful in recorded history, struck Alaska and caused widespread destruction in Seward. The earthquake and resulting tsunamis devastated the town, destroying its waterfront and many buildings. However, the resilient community was rebuilt in the years that followed, continuing to thrive as a key Alaskan port and tourist destination.
Today, Seward is best known as the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park and a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Its history, shaped by its connection to the railroad and its strategic coastal location, remains an integral part of its identity.