Seward on Resurrection Bay

Seward lies at the head of Resurrection Bay, a fjord on the Gulf of Alaska. Along the waterfront path and at Seward’s harbor docks, you can spot sea otters and sea lions year-round. On the water, day cruises and paddling trips offer different ways to explore. Cultural attractions include a historic walking tour, murals, and a virtual museum tour.

Travel by Train

The state-owned Alaska Railroad connects Anchorage with Seward during the summer months, from May through September. If you’re planning to travel by train, check the schedule before your trip: service is seasonal.

Trails in the Exit Glacier Area

The Exit Glacier area is the only part of Kenai Fjords National Park accessible by car. There, you can explore trails with spectacular views. The Harding Icefield Trail is strenuous; hikers gain about 1,000 feet of elevation per mile and should allow at least 6–8 hours for the hike. Difficulty, elevation gain, and time required offer different points of reference for planning.

Water Excursions

Day cruises from Seward offer opportunities to spot wildlife and tidewater glaciers. Trips last between 3.5 and 9 hours, and routes vary. Local paddling companies in Seward offer full- and half-day excursions, including paddling trips in Resurrection Bay and tours in Kenai Fjords National Park.

For planning your day, there are several time options: cruises with a specific duration range and paddling trips lasting half a day or a full day. Operators and routes may change, so check what’s available for your preferred date in advance. The shortest cruise is shorter than the time needed to plan for the Harding Icefield Trail.

Marine Life and Museum

The Alaska SeaLife Center combines a public aquarium with marine research, educational programs, and wildlife emergency response. The National Historic Iditarod Trail also begins at the Alaska SeaLife Center. The Seward Museum offers a virtual tour with exhibits, close-up views of artifacts, and access to its collections. These attractions have different focuses: marine research and education, a historic trail, and exhibits and collection materials in digital form.

History and Art

The Seward Historic Walking Tour features 26 informational signs and 46 stops. Seward’s mural collection includes more than 30 paintings depicting historical figures, local events, and natural landscapes. The offerings differ in format: the tour centers on informational signs and stops, while the paintings focus on their subjects. You can choose between a historic walking tour and a collection that depicts history and nature in art.

Discover more destinations: Anchor Point, Moose Pass, Kenai, Soldotna, Homer, Seldovia, Fritz Creek, Clam Gulch

Return to the regional travel overview: Kenai Peninsula.