10 Best Things to Do in Seward, Alaska

Planning a trip to Seward, Alaska soon? You’re in for an incredible adventure!

This small coastal town sits at the head of Resurrection Bay and serves as the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park, where you can cruise past glaciers, spot real-life humpback whales, and experience some of Alaska’s wildest, iciest landscapes up close.

It goes without saying, but any trip to Seward is bound to be pretty special, regardless of what you do. However, if you’d like a little inspiration, we’ve rounded up our favorite things to do in Seward, from relaxing day cruises to action-packed glacier adventures. We’ve also thrown in a few of our top hotel recommendations if you’re still looking for a place to stay while you’re there.  

Ready? Let’s get to it! 

Seward at a Glance

Seward may be small, but it’s one of Alaska’s biggest adventure hubs. It’s located about 125 miles (200 kilometers) south of Anchorage along the scenic Seward Highway, and, in our opinion, it’s the perfect base for exploring Kenai Fjords National Park and Resurrection Bay.

Before you arrive, here are a few things worth knowing: 

Important Tip: Book your Kenai Fjords cruise early—summer dates fill up fast!

Getting there: Most visitors drive the Seward Highway from Anchorage, which takes around two to three hours depending on traffic and road construction. The Alaska Railroad also runs a scenic service between Anchorage and Seward, which is well worth considering if you’re happy to spend most of your time in and around town. 

Best time to visit: Late May through early September is usually the best time to visit Seward, as most of the tours, trails, and shuttle services are fully operational.

Getting around town: Seward is small and walkable in the center, and there’s a free shuttle service connecting the train station, harbor, and other key spots throughout town. However, you’ll need a rental car if you plan to venture beyond town to places like Exit Glacier and some of the area’s best hiking trails.

How I Would Spend Two or Three Days in Seward

Seward isn’t a huge town, and you can actually pack in quite a lot in just two days. However, if you can stretch your trip to three days, you’ll have time to fit in a few extra adventures without feeling rushed! 

Here’s my recommended two- or three-day itinerary in Seward: 

🐋 Day 1: Kenai Fjords Cruise & Seward Waterfront
Start the day with a Kenai Fjords National Park Glacier and Wildlife Cruise, then visit the Alaska SeaLife Center to see Alaska’s marine life up close, before watching the fishing boats return to Seward Boat Harbor in the late afternoon and enjoying dinner at a local favorite like Ray’s Waterfront.

🐕 Day 2: Dog Sledding & Exit Glacier
Get an early start with a wilderness dog sled ride, before heading to Exit Glacier for an easy walk along the Glacier View Loop Trail or, if your legs are up for it, the longer Glacier Overlook Trail before ending the day with a seafood dinner overlooking the harbor.

🛶 Day 3: Kayaking & Glacier Adventure
Spend the morning kayaking around Resurrection Bay, then visit the Alaska SeaLife Center or end your trip with an unforgettable helicopter glacier dog sledding tour on Goodwin Glacier before enjoying a final dinner at The Cookery.

Things to Do in Seward

1. Ride a dog sled and meet husky puppies

If dog sledding is on your Seward bucket list but you’re visiting in summer, this wilderness dog sled tour is the perfect way to experience this iconic tradition without the snow. You’ll still get to feel the thrill of riding behind a team of energetic huskies as they race through the forest on a wheeled sled, offering a unique summer twist on a classic Alaskan adventure.

The adventure begins with a short transfer from Seward to the kennel, where you’ll meet the working sled dogs that make this experience possible. You can feel the excitement build as the huskies get harnessed up, chat with your guides about dog mushing, and learn what it takes to train a team of sled dogs.

Then it’s time for the main event. You’ll climb aboard your padded sled as the huskies burst into action, racing through forest paths and giving you a taste of what it’s like to mush through the Alaskan wilderness.

One of the best parts for many visitors comes afterward: puppy time! From around May through September, you’ll get the chance to cuddle adorable husky puppies and snap plenty of photos. You’ll also enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour of the kennel and learn more about how these incredible dogs are raised and trained throughout the year.

We especially recommend this tour for families, animal lovers, and anyone curious about one of Alaska’s most iconic traditions. Between the energetic huskies, the behind-the-scenes kennel experience, and the thrill of the ride, this is an adventure you’ll remember long after your trip. 

2. See glaciers and wildlife on a Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise

If there’s one tour we’d tell everyone to book in Seward, it’s this Kenai Fjords National Park glacier and wildlife cruise. Operating seasonally from spring through fall, this is one of the best ways to experience Alaska’s rugged coastline, with summer being the busiest time for departures and wildlife viewing.

Over the course of six hours, you’ll travel roughly 100 miles (160 kilometers) round-trip through Resurrection Bay and into the heart of Kenai Fjords National Park. Along the way, you’ll pass rugged cliffs, secluded islands, and towering glaciers before arriving at either Holgate Glacier or Aialik Glacier. 

Of course, the scenery is only half the reason to book this cruise. Kenai Fjords is one of the best places in Alaska to spot wildlife, and the experienced crew is fantastic at finding it. Depending on the day, you might see humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, Steller sea lions, puffins, bald eagles, and even mountain goats clinging to the steep cliffs.

Even though you’ll spend most of your time out on deck taking in the views, it’s nice knowing you can warm up inside the heated cabin whenever you need a break. Lunch is also included (just choose your sandwich in advance), and binoculars are available onboard to help you get an even better look at the wildlife.

With thousands of five-star reviews, this cruise is one of Seward’s most popular experiences. The combination of glaciers, wildlife, and dramatic scenery makes it a must-do on any Seward itinerary. Just keep in mind that summer departures often sell out well in advance, so we recommend booking as early as possible to secure your preferred time.

If you don’t have a full day to spare, the same tour operator also offers an excellent 4-hour Resurrection Bay cruise. It doesn’t venture as far into the national park, but you’ll still enjoy spectacular scenery, Bear Glacier, and fantastic opportunities to spot whales, sea otters, and other wildlife.

3. Explore the Alaska SeaLife Center

If you only have time for one attraction in town, make sure it’s the Alaska SeaLife Center. It sits right on Seward’s waterfront, and it’s part aquarium, part rescue and rehabilitation center, and one of the best places to learn about Alaska’s incredible marine wildlife.

Inside, you’ll come face-to-face with Steller sea lions, harbor seals, puffins, octopuses, and countless species of fish native to Alaskan waters. The exhibits are just as enjoyable for adults as they are for kids, and one of my favorite parts was the underwater viewing areas, where you can watch the animals swim around and go about their day from just a few feet away.

Another reason why I love the Alaska SeaLife Center in Seward is that it’s the only permanent marine mammal rehabilitation facility in Alaska, caring for injured and orphaned wildlife before releasing many of them back into the wild. The center also supports ongoing research into Alaska’s marine ecosystems, so your visit helps fund important conservation work.

When planning your visit, I recommend blocking out around two to three hours here, which should give you plenty of time to see everything without feeling rushed. Admission is typically around $30–$35 USD per person, and hours can vary throughout the year, so be sure to check the Alaska SeaLife Center’s website before you go. 

It’s also worth noting that the SeaLife Center is located on the south side of town near the Children’s Museum, so you can easily pair your visit with a stroll through Waterfront Park and the harbor. 

4. Kayak around Resurrection Bay

If you want to experience Resurrection Bay from a completely different perspective, this guided kayaking tour is definitely worth checking out! As you paddle across calm waters surrounded by glaciers, mountains, and wildlife, you’ll experience a quieter side of Alaska that most visitors never get to see.

After meeting your guide in downtown Seward, you’ll get geared up and head out onto the calm waters of Resurrection Bay. The scenery is absolutely spectacular, and the slower pace gives you plenty of time to take in the mountain views and peaceful bay. 

One thing we really like about this tour is how knowledgeable the guides are. Throughout your trip, they’ll share stories about the bay’s wildlife, geology, and history, making the experience just as interesting as it is scenic. If you’re visiting later in the summer, you’ll also stop at Tonsina Creek, where you may get to watch salmon making their annual spawning run.

This tour also pairs perfectly with the Kenai Fjords cruise if you only have a couple of days in Seward. The cruise gives you a broader look at the national park, while kayaking lets you slow down and experience Resurrection Bay up close at water level.

The only thing to keep in mind is that this tour is non-refundable. And because groups are kept intentionally small, we’d recommend booking well in advance, especially during the busy summer season, so you don’t miss out. 

5. Walk the trails at Exit Glacier

Next up is Exit Glacier, one of the most accessible glaciers in Alaska and a highlight of Kenai Fjords National Park. Unlike many glaciers that require a boat or helicopter to reach, here you can walk right up to the edge of the glacier without a guided tour. Best of all, it’s completely free to visit and is the only area of the national park accessible by car.

Once you arrive, there are a few different trails to choose from depending on how much time and energy you have. 

• The Glacier View Loop Trail is an easy 1-mile (1.6 km) walk that takes around 45 minutes and rewards you with fantastic views of Exit Glacier and the surrounding mountains. 

• If you’d like to get a little closer, you can also continue onto the Glacier Overlook Trail, which offers an even better vantage point over the ice.

• For something more challenging, you can also tackle the Harding Icefield Trail, which is one of the most spectacular day hikes in Alaska. 

Before setting off, make sure to stop by the Exit Glacier Nature Center near the Exit Glacier trailhead. It’s a great place to learn more about the glacier, current trail conditions, and get tips from park rangers.

6. Helicopter to Goodwin Glacier and go dog sledding

If you’re looking for the ultimate Alaska bucket-list experience, it doesn’t get much better than this helicopter glacier and dog sledding tour! From the moment you lift off in the helicopter to the second you step onto the glacier and meet the sled dogs, every part of this experience feels like an Alaska dream come true.

Your adventure begins at the helicopter base near Seward Airport, where you’ll board a helicopter for a spectacular 15-minute flight to Goodwin Glacier. As you soar above snow-covered mountains, glaciers, and rugged wilderness, you’ll get incredible bird’s-eye views that are simply impossible to appreciate from the ground.

After landing on the glacier, you’ll step out into a landscape that feels completely untouched. Waiting for you at the glacier camp is a team of enthusiastic huskies and an experienced musher, who’ll introduce you to the dogs before taking you on an exhilarating 2-mile (3.2-kilometer) sled ride across the snow.

Of course, one of the biggest highlights comes after the ride, where you’ll meet the adorable husky puppies! You’ll have plenty of time to cuddle them, snap photos, and chat with the mushers about life at the glacier camp. 

We’d recommend this tour to just about anyone visiting Seward, and it’s no surprise that it has so many glowing 5-star reviews, with many travelers describing it as the highlight of their entire Alaska vacation. 

That said, many departures book out months in advance. So if it’s on your Alaska wish list, we’d strongly recommend reserving your spot as early as possible. There are free cancellations, so why not?

7. Check out the Seward Boat Harbor

Located on the north side of town, Seward Boat Harbor is a working fishing harbor, and spending an hour here gives you a real feel for everyday life in Seward.

If you can, plan to visit around 4 or 5 pm when many of the local fishing boats begin returning for the day. It’s not uncommon to see crews unloading enormous halibut and king salmon straight onto the docks, and watching the boats come and go is an experience in itself! 

If you’re heading out on a Kenai Fjords cruise, you’ll pass through the harbor anyway, but I’d recommend arriving a little early to soak up the atmosphere before boarding.

While you’re here, don’t miss the Kenai Fjords National Park Visitor Center, located on the south side of the harbor. Admission is free, and the exhibits offer a great introduction to the park’s glaciers, wildlife, and geology. The rangers are also happy to answer questions about hiking trails, wildlife sightings, and current conditions if you’re planning to explore the park on your own.

Once you’ve finished exploring, the harbor area is also one of the best places in town to grab dinner with a fabulous view! 

8. Ice hike on Exit Glacier

If you want to go beyond the viewpoints at Exit Glacier and actually step onto the ice, this guided glacier hike offers a completely different experience! Rather than simply admiring the glacier from a viewpoint, you’ll strap on crampons and explore the ice itself alongside an experienced guide.

Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Seward before hiking beyond the busy visitor area to reach the glacier. Before stepping onto the ice, your guide will fit you with all the specialist gear (including crampons, a harness, helmet, and trekking poles) and show you exactly how to use it. Even if it’s your first glacier hike, the guides are incredibly patient and make sure everyone feels comfortable.

Once you’re on the glacier, you’ll weave between towering ice formations, peer into brilliant blue crevasses, and explore areas that few visitors ever get to see. Along the way, your guide shares fascinating insights into the glacier’s history, geology, and the dramatic changes it’s undergone over the years.

This is one of the most rewarding adventures in Seward, but it is physically demanding, so keep that in mind before you book. Group sizes are also small, so we’d recommend booking well in advance to secure your spot on your preferred date. 

9. See the Northwestern Glacier on a wildlife cruise

If you’re looking for an even more remote glacier experience, this Northwestern Fjord and wildlife cruise is definitely worth checking out! It’s the only daily cruise that ventures into Northwestern Fjord, which is one of the most spectacular and least-visited parts of Kenai Fjords National Park, and it offers the chance to see an even more dramatic side of Alaska’s glacial wilderness. 

Over the course of eight hours, you’ll cruise through Resurrection Bay before heading deep into the park, where dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and alpine glaciers surround three towering tidewater glaciers. 

Wildlife sightings are another major highlight. Keep an eye out for humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, Steller sea lions, puffins, and bald eagles. And if you’re lucky, you might even witness humpback whales bubble-net feeding, which is one of Alaska’s most incredible wildlife spectacles.

Throughout the day, your captain and onboard wildlife guide will share fascinating commentary about the glaciers, marine life, and ecosystems you’ll encounter. A light breakfast and lunch are also included, so all you need to do is relax and enjoy the scenery! 

We especially recommend this cruise for travelers who want to go beyond the typical Kenai Fjords experience. The longer route into Northwestern Fjord means fewer crowds, more remote scenery, and the chance to see a side of Alaska that many visitors never reach. We also love the fact that it’s wheelchair accessible, so it’s suitable for just about anyone wanting to explore beyond Resurrection Bay.

10. Go hiking

If there’s one thing Seward has no shortage of, it’s incredible hiking trails. Whether you’re after an easy walk with mountain views or a challenging climb that’ll leave your legs burning, you’ll find plenty of options just minutes from town.

For something relaxed, head to Two Lakes Park. This easy 1-mile (1.6 km) loop winds around a peaceful lake surrounded by forest, with beautiful mountain views along the way. This trail is perfect if you’re traveling with kids or simply want to stretch your legs without committing to a longer hike. Keep an eye out for salmon in First Lake as you go!

If you’re looking for more of a challenge, it’s definitely worth tackling Mount Marathon, one of Alaska’s most iconic hikes. This steep 6-mile (9.7 km) round-trip hike isn’t for the faint of heart, but the panoramic views over Resurrection Bay, Seward, and the surrounding mountains make every step worthwhile. Just be prepared for a strenuous climb with some loose footing, and most importantly, don’t forget your hiking boots and a bottle of water! 

Where to Stay in Seward, Alaska

Finding the right place to stay in Seward is pretty straightforward, as most hotels are just a short drive from the town’s main attractions. The biggest decision is whether you want to stay close to the harbor for easy access to tours, or if you want to stay somewhere a little quieter on the outskirts. 

With that in mind, here are our top picks at three different price points. 

Luxury – $$$

For our luxury pick, we cannot recommend Spruce Lodge enough! It’s tucked away in the forest just outside town, and it offers a quiet retreat while still being only a short drive from the Kenai Fjords cruise harbor and Exit Glacier.

The rooms are modern and spacious, with fully equipped kitchenettes that are ideal if you’re planning on preparing a few meals or snacks yourself. There’s also an excellent on-site coffee shop, an outdoor fireplace, free parking, and a shuttle into town, so it’s easy to enjoy the best of Seward without having to stay right in the middle of it.

Price-wise, you can expect to pay around $200 to $350 USD per night, depending on the season and room type, which is excellent value considering the facilities and surroundings. Check availability and book your unforgettable stay at Spruce Lodge here!

Mid-Range – $$

In my opinion, Harbor 360 Hotel Seward is one of the most convenient places to stay in town because it sits right on Seward’s Small Boat Harbor, so you’re within easy walking distance of the Alaska SeaLife Center, the harbor, and many of Seward’s best restaurants and cafes. 

The hotel is also just really nice and comfortable. I love that you have the choice of mountain or harbor views when you book your room, and there’s also an indoor pool and hot tub, which are both much-appreciated after a full day of adventure. 

As for pricing, you can expect rooms to typically cost between $150 and $250 USD per night, which is very reasonable for a waterfront stay in Alaska. Secure your stay on your preferred dates at Harbor 360 Hotel here.

Budget – $

If you’re looking to keep costs as low as possible without sacrificing location, the Sea Treasures Inn is hands down my top budget pick in Seward. 

This is a charming boutique-style inn with just four rooms available, so it feels much more personal than your typical budget hotel. You’ll also have access to a shared kitchen, which is always appreciated if you’re looking to save a little money on your trip. 

The Sea Treasures Inn is on the south side of town, within walking distance of the waterfront, the SeaLife Center, and plenty of restaurants and shops, making it ideal for anyone traveling without a car or looking to keep things simple while visiting Seward. 

Depending on the season, you can expect rooms to fall between a very reasonable $100 and $160 USD per night. Book your spot at the Sea Treasures Inn on your preferred dates here!

Want more great options? Browse more hotels in Seward here!

Thanks for reading!

I hope this list has you excited to start planning your time in Seward! Between cruising past massive glaciers, spotting whales in Kenai Fjords, meeting adorable sled dogs, and hiking through some seriously beautiful scenery, there are so many unforgettable ways to experience this little Alaskan town. No matter how many days you have, you really can’t go wrong with a few of these adventures on your Seward itinerary!

If Seward is just one stop on your Alaska adventure, there’s plenty more to explore! Have a look through all of our USA blogs here, or check out a few of our favorite guides below to help plan your next adventure!

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