Explore Historic Seward

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

No visit to Alaska is complete without a journey along Alaska's only National Scenic Byway and a trip into the historic town of Seward. Situated at the head of Resurrection Bay on the Kenai Peninsula, Seward is one of Alaska's oldest and most scenic communities. Known as the ''Gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park,'' Seward is a picturesque town located 126 miles south of Anchorage. The 127-mile Seward Highway, linking Anchorage with Seward, passes through some of the most spectacular scenery in the country. The landscape varies from the muddy waters of Turnagain Arm to the icy blue glaciers that hang almost to the sea. Wildflowers and waterfalls brighten every corner of the road as it glides below rough mountains that pierce thick, heavy clouds. Your guide will share the history of the area while you view the stunning scenery.

Once in Seward, named for President Lincoln's Secretary of State William Seward, who negotiated the purchase of Alaska from Russia, there are a variety of in-town explorations and attractions to take in. The SeaLife Center, situated on the shores of Resurrection Bay, is Alaska's only public aquarium and world-class coldwater marine research facility. Visitors to this ''window on the sea'' have close encounters with puffins, octopus, sea lions and other marine life while peeking over the shoulders of ocean scientists studying Alaska's rich seas and diverse sea life. Nearly 2,000 invertebrates, fish, seabirds, and marine mammals are on exhibit - approximately 177 different species live in 4,500 gallons of fresh seawater. Most of the animals on exhibit, including puffins, seals, starfish, and various seabirds come from the nearby Gulf of Alaska. Remote control cameras from Chiswell Island, 35 miles from Seward, let you zero in on sleepy wild sea lions, basking in the sun on the rocks. Caines Head State Recreation Area, scenic site of an abandoned World War II fort, can be reached by boat or on foot (at low tide) from Seward. Its headlands rise 650 feet above Resurrection Bay, against a backdrop of high peaks, and give a sweeping view of the ocean.

Our Lodge team will provide information on other optional activities such as a side trip to Exit Glacier, one of the more accessible glaciers in Alaska or inquire about a two-mile ride on an Iditarod dog sled. These optional excursions are available for an additional charge.

Special Notes:

Admission to the venues in Seward are optional. These optional excursions are available for an additional charge. Bring your camera and binoculars.