Things to do in Seward
Shore excursions in Seward, Alaska, offer a wealth of experiences for travelers looking to explore the region’s pristine wilderness and rich marine life. Located at the edge of Resurrection Bay and serving as the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park, Seward provides a variety of outdoor adventures that allow visitors to connect with nature in unforgettable ways.
One of the most sought-after excursions is a boat tour through Resurrection Bay and the Kenai Fjords, where guests can marvel at stunning glaciers like Holgate Glacier and witness marine wildlife in their natural habitat. These tours offer close-up views of whales, sea lions, puffins, and other seabirds. The scenery is dramatic, with towering cliffs and pristine waters, providing numerous opportunities for photography and wildlife spotting.
For those who enjoy exploring on foot, hiking options abound. The Exit Glacier offers well-maintained trails for an up-close view of the glacier’s ice fields, and for more experienced hikers, the Harding Icefield Trail is a challenging yet rewarding option, offering sweeping vistas of the surrounding wilderness and ice fields.
Fishing charters are another popular shore excursion, allowing visitors to try their luck at catching halibut, salmon, and other prized fish in the rich waters off Seward. Kayaking excursions are also available for those who want to explore Seward’s rugged coastline at a slower pace, with the chance to see wildlife and breathtaking views from the water.
In addition to outdoor adventures, the Alaska SeaLife Center provides a family-friendly excursion, where guests can learn about marine life and conservation efforts in Alaska. With a variety of excursions available, Seward offers something for every type of traveler looking for an authentic Alaskan experience.
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About Seward, Alaska
Seward, Alaska, boasts a fascinating history that dates back to its founding in 1903. The town was named after William H. Seward, the U.S. Secretary of State who negotiated the purchase of Alaska from Russia in 1867. Its location along the ice-free shores of Resurrection Bay made it an ideal site for a port, setting the stage for its development as a key transportation and trade hub.
Seward’s establishment was largely driven by the construction of the Alaska Railroad. In 1903, surveyors and workers arrived to begin building the rail line that would eventually link Seward to Fairbanks, opening up access to Alaska's interior. The town quickly grew as a result of this ambitious project, attracting settlers, merchants, and miners who sought opportunities in the region. The railroad served as a lifeline for the transportation of goods and people, cementing Seward's importance in Alaska’s early economic development.
In 1923, Seward marked a major milestone with a visit from President Warren G. Harding, who ceremonially drove the golden spike, symbolizing the completion of the Alaska Railroad. This event was a significant moment in the town’s history, as it solidified Seward’s role as a critical link between the Alaskan wilderness and the outside world.
Seward’s history, however, has not been without challenges. In 1964, the town was hit hard by the Good Friday Earthquake, one of the largest earthquakes ever recorded. The earthquake triggered tsunamis that destroyed much of Seward’s waterfront and caused extensive damage throughout the town. Despite this devastation, the resilient community rebuilt, emerging stronger in the years that followed.
Today, Seward thrives as a gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park and remains a vibrant part of Alaska’s rich history, attracting visitors from around the world.