Explore 10 Interesting Things to Do in Seward

Seward is a small town in Alaska that is situated at the head of Resurrection Bay on the Kenai Peninsula. It is one of the most scenic places in Alaska. The town is known as a gateway to the breathtaking Kenai Fjords National Park.

Seward is a mecca for nature lovers. The town has astonishing natural beauty, majestic wildlife, and an enchanting local vibe. All these and the easy access to the town make up a big list of many things to do in Seward.

There are two high seasons during which a lot of tourists visit Seward. The first is summer, from June to September, as the temperature is mild. The other is the months of March to May. These months are popular because they fall in the whale migration season. So, to decide on the time to visit, you need to pick what things to do in Seward.

Things to Do in Seward

Seward is a popular pick for anyone who wants to explore Alaska. It offers visitors a wide variety of activities and sites to visit. With the many choices Seward has, it might be a bit hard to come up with an itinerary that includes the most important things to do and see. Here’s a list of the most important things to do in Seward to help you plan the perfect trip.

Explore Fjords National Park

The number one activity in Seward is exploring Fjords National Park. It stretches over around a thousand square miles and is known for its preservation of wildlife and landscape.

Getting into the park is an activity in itself. If you want to explore the Fjords National Park with a group, you can take a boat from Seward harbour to the park. On the other hand, you can rent a kayak to explore the park on your own.

The most famous attraction at the Kenai Fjords National Park is the Harding Icefield. The Icefield hosts around 40 different glaciers. The spectacular glaciers catch the attention of a lot of visitors who stare in awe at the magnificent frozen creations.

When it comes to the icefields, it is possible to either hike through them or fly above them in a private plane. The choice depends on both your budget and what kind of activities you are looking for.

Regardless of how you choose to explore the park, the cruise through the park will grant you fabulous views of the wildlife living there. Some wildlife you can observe closely include sea otters, orcas, pilot whales, harbour seals, sea lions, eagles, puffins and many other birds.

A visit to the Fjords National Park might be a bit pricey, but it is surely worth every penny. The activities and views offered by the park are unique to any other national park.

Gaze at Bear Glacier

An attraction that is worth a special mention is the astonishing Bear Glacier. Many actually choose to visit Fjords National Park just to get a glance at the Glacier. The Glacier should be on your itinerary of things to do in Seward.

Bear Glacier is a spectacular sight in itself. Visiting the Glacier is one of the best things to do in Seward. However, the actual gem is located right at the foot of Bear Glacier. It is Bear Glacier Lagoon. The lagoon is very deep and has clear water. It is surrounded by snow-capped peaks.

Different icebergs are scattered in the area. The icebergs come in various shapes and sizes. Some of them are so huge that you can spot them before you arrive at the lagoon. Yet others are as small as a cup.

The icebergs are in different shades of blue. The lagoon and icebergs intertwine in harmony as some of the icebergs fall under the surface of the lagoon and then unite as they become one.

One of the things to keep in mind while you are at the Bear Glacier is that no matter how beautiful the icebergs look, do not get close to them. Even if you do not realise it at the beginning, these icebergs are constantly moving, cracking, popping, tumbling, and rolling.

Visit the Alaska SeaLife Centre

Want to get even closer to sea animals? Visit the Alaska SeaLife Centre and get close to your favourite sea creatures!

The Alaska SeaLife Center is a public aquarium located in Seward. It is Alaska’s only permanent facility for marine mammal rehabilitation. If you are into sea life, checking out Alaska Sealife Center should be on your list of things to do in Seward.

The centre is dedicated to studying and understanding Alaska’s marine ecosystems, and its premier goal is to start conversations about saving marine wildlife. You can see pretty much all the Alaskan marine creatures except for whales. The exhibitions at the centre feature a touch tank where you are not just allowed but also encouraged to touch marine invertebrates like sea stars and sea urchins.

Other exhibits show the important fish of Alaska, harbour seals, Pacific octopuses, and sea otters. Yet, the centre’s gem is a two-story diving pool and an astonishing variety of seabirds that you can watch. Another exhibit that is worth stopping at is the king crab exhibit. So, make sure to make time for it while you are at the centre.

The visit to this amazing SeaLife Center is very affordable. The cost of tickets is $30 per adult and $18 per child. However, there are other additional costs if you opt for animal encounters or behind-the-scenes tours.

Hike Mt. Marathon

For those passionate about physical activities, embarking on the adventure of hiking Mt. Marathon is a must-do experience in Seward. This stunning mountain boasts a 2.25-mile route leading to the top of Race Point, where the mesmerising views are sure to captivate you.

Mt. Marathon offers three distinct trails primarily used by hikers and runners. The optimal time for hiking is between May and September when the weather is most favourable.

Reaching the summit rewards hikers with a breathtaking panorama of Resurrection Bay, accompanied by the invigorating freshness of the mountain breeze—an experience like no other.

A highlight in Seward is the annual Mt. Marathon race, held on the 4th of July. This challenging 5-kilometre race begins at 9:00 am, offering participants an exhilarating test of endurance. So, get in shape and prepare yourself for the awe-inspiring Mt. Marathon race!

Check Seward Boat Harbour

Are you fascinated by boats? Seward’s boat harbour offers a captivating experience where you can observe a wide variety of vessels. The harbour has an impressive array, including the local fishing fleet, charter fishing boats, tour boats, the US Coast Guard Cutter Mustang, and more.

This full-service harbour caters to all the needs of sailors and their boats. From repair yards to power utilities and potable water, Seward Harbour has everything required to keep the vessels in top condition.

In addition to the services for sailors, the harbour area also features hardware stores, grocery stores, art galleries, restaurants, hotels, and more to meet all your needs.

Even if you don’t arrive with your own boat, you can still enjoy watching the fishing boats being repaired and prepared for their next voyage. The harbour is open to all visitors without any entry fees. The sight of the boats docked against the stunning backdrop makes visiting the harbour one of the best things to do in Seward.

Observe Sea Animals at Resurrection Bay

Resurrection Bay is home to an exceptionally rich marine life, offering a unique glimpse into the diverse ecosystems of the North Pacific. This somewhat protected area hosts a wide variety of sea creatures, including sea otters, Steller sea lions, harbour seals, and many others.

The bay comprises six islands—Fox Island, Rugged Island, Hat Island, Hive Island, Barwell Island, and Cheval Island. It also features numerous coves that captivate explorers from around the world, with Derby Cove, Humpy Cove, Porcupine Cove, and Halibut Cove being particularly popular among visitors.

One of the most enjoyable activities in Resurrection Bay is cruising through its stunning waters. To enhance the experience, consider feasting on Alaskan salmon while taking in the breathtaking scenery.

Exploring the bay requires at least half a day. The diverse species inhabiting the area, the awe-inspiring views, and the many hidden spots waiting to be discovered make visiting Resurrection Bay one of the best things to do in Seward. Be sure to include it in your itinerary while in Seward.

Go Camping at Waterfront Park

Situated on a small portion of Resurrection Campground, Seward Waterfront Park is a popular RV park and camping site renowned for its stunning scenery. Camping at this park is one of the most popular activities in Seward, offering visitors an ideal blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure.

Seward Waterfront Park primarily serves as a camping site, featuring spacious picnic areas, a skate park, and direct access to the beach. The park also boasts a trail lined with local historical landmarks, making it a favourite spot for hikers who enjoy leisurely strolls while taking in the park’s picturesque views and historical significance.

Among the landmarks along the trail are the Old Railroad Depot, the Founder’s Monument, and Mile 0 of the historic Iditarod Trail. Exploring this trail provides ample opportunities to spot seabirds, bald eagles, sea otters, and even the occasional harbour seal or sea lion. If you’re fortunate, you may even catch a glimpse of a whale.

A visit to Seward Waterfront Park for a stroll or a picnic is completely free, as there are no entry fees. For those who wish to camp, the park offers six separate camping areas with rates ranging from $20 (for tent-only sites) to $65 (for RV sites with electric and water hookups).

Whether you’re interested in camping, exploring historical landmarks, or simply enjoying the breathtaking views, Seward Waterfront Park is a must-visit destination in Seward.

Experience Adrenaline Rush at Stoney Creek Canopy Adventures

While Seward is known for its serene sightseeing, it also offers exhilarating adventures that will leave you with an unforgettable adrenaline rush. No list of things to do in Seward is complete without experiencing Stoney Creek Canopy Adventures.

Nestled on the mountainside in Alaska, Stoney Creek Canopy Adventures offers a range of thrilling activities, including eight ziplines, three suspension bridges, and two rappels. Among these, the zipline tour is particularly popular.

The ziplines vary in height, beginning with a gentle 65-foot traverse close to the ground, perfect for newcomers to get comfortable. As the tour progresses, the excitement builds—by the third zipline, you’ll be travelling 190 feet and landing 50 feet up in the trunk of a massive Sitka spruce. The fifth zipline is a true highlight, soaring 1,100 feet above the trees, crossing a reflecting pond, and ending 75 feet up in another Sitka spruce.

This three-hour tour takes adventurers on a journey through eight thrilling ziplines and along a woodland aerial walkway, offering panoramic views of Alaska’s breathtaking wilderness. It’s a must-do experience in Seward. Rest assured, all safety precautions are in place, and helmets and safety gear are provided for all visitors.

Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply want to take in the stunning landscape from a unique perspective, Stoney Creek Canopy Adventures is an essential addition to your Seward itinerary.

Walk Around Downtown Seward

While many travellers begin their visit to a city with a walk, we believe that a stroll through downtown Seward is the ideal way to say goodbye. A leisurely walk around the town is one of the most important things to do in Seward.

Seward is divided into two main parts, separated by the Waterfront Park. However, the town is small enough that you can easily explore most of it on foot or by bike.

Starting at the northern end, the harbour occupies a significant portion of this area. Besides the harbour, the “tourist town” is another key attraction, where visitors come to book various activities in Seward.

As you stroll through downtown, you can stop for a bite at one of the many restaurants along the harbour. Along the way, you’ll also have the chance to do some sightseeing, with the highlight being sea otters playing in the clear, turquoise water.

As you move south, you’ll reach the “old town,” a quieter area that offers a more local experience of Seward.

Seward is brimming with things to do, from activities to breathtaking views and abundant sea life. Take your time to plan your trip and ensure you include the activities that interest you most. Allow yourself ample time to explore this remarkable town and savour its natural beauty.

Explore The Seward Community Library and Museum

After exploring Seward’s stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife, delve into the town’s rich history at the Seward Community Library and Museum. This venue offers a valuable opportunity to learn about the area’s past, which was established in collaboration with the Seward government and the Resurrection Bay Historical Society.

The museum houses an extensive collection of photographs, archives, keepsakes, and artefacts from Seward’s history. The library complements this with a wide range of books, magazines, audiobooks, and newspapers, all available for public use.

The staff at the library are knowledgeable and eager to assist. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask—they’re a wealth of information.

Beyond its historical and educational offerings, the library provides a fantastic view of Resurrection Bay, perfect for a peaceful reading session. Entry to the library is free, making the Seward Community Library and Museum an ideal spot for a relaxed day in the city.

Conclusion

Seward is a captivating Alaskan gem that beckons adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. From embarking on awe-inspiring glacier cruises to hiking the scenic trails of Kenai Fjords National Park, this charming coastal town offers a wealth of remarkable experiences.

Visitors can also immerse themselves in the region’s rich maritime heritage at the Alaska SeaLife Centre or savour the flavours of fresh seafood at the bustling harbour. Whether marvelling at the majestic wildlife, admiring the rugged natural splendour, or delving into the local culture, Seward proves itself to be a truly enchanting and unforgettable destination in the heart of Alaska’s spectacular wilderness.