15/05/2024
Seward, Alaska: A Comprehensive Travel Guide
Overview
Nestled on the edge of Resurrection Bay on the Kenai Peninsula, Seward is a scenic city in Alaska known for its picturesque views, abundant wildlife, and as the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park. It's a popular destination for both adventure enthusiasts and those looking to immerse themselves in nature's tranquility.
History
Founded in 1903 as the ocean terminus of the Alaska Railroad, Seward was named after William H. Seward, the U.S. Secretary of State who orchestrated the purchase of Alaska from Russia in 1867. The city has played a pivotal role in Alaska’s development and holds significant historical importance.
Culture and Local Customs
Seward boasts a vibrant culture celebrating its rich heritage and natural environment. Annual events like the Mount Marathon Race, held every Fourth of July, attract visitors and locals alike and are steeped in tradition. The community is known for its hospitality and a deep connection to the surrounding wilderness.
Indigenous Peoples and Culture
Seward is located on the ancestral lands of the Alutiiq (Sugpiaq) and Dena'ina peoples. These indigenous groups have a rich history of sea hunting, fishing, and crafting. Efforts to preserve and promote their culture include participation in local events, maintaining a subsistence lifestyle, and engaging in traditional crafts such as mask-making, beadwork, and carving. Visitors can learn about these cultures through workshops, cultural sites, and events that highlight traditional practices and stories.
Alaska Railroad Connection
The Alaska Railroad, which extends from Seward to Anchorage, plays a crucial role in linking Seward with other parts of Alaska. This historic rail service provides a scenic journey through some of Alaska's most breathtaking landscapes, including mountains, forests, and rivers. It offers both regular passenger services and special tourist routes that highlight the natural beauty and unique history of the region. This connection not only facilitates travel but also enhances the cultural and economic ties between Seward and Anchorage.
Influential Figures
William H. Seward - Namesake of the town, significant for his role in the purchase of Alaska.
Benny Benson - The Alaska Native who designed the state flag.
Transportation Options
By Air: Seward Airport accommodates private planes, but the nearest commercial flights land at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, about 125 miles away.
By Road: Accessible via the scenic Seward Highway, offering stunning views of mountains, waters, and sometimes wildlife.
By Sea: Seward is a popular port for cruise ships and also serves as a departure point for many wildlife and glacier cruises.
By Rail: The Alaska Railroad offers a direct and scenic route to Anchorage, enhancing the travel experience with stunning views and comfortable travel amenities.
Monthly Temperature and Precipitation
Temperature: Ranges from an average low of 17°F in January to an average high of 62°F in July.
Precipitation: Highest in September, averaging over 8 inches, while February is the driest month.
Hours of Daylight
June: The longest days with up to 19 hours of daylight.
December: The shortest days with about 6 hours of daylight.
Top 10 Attractions
Kenai Fjords National Park: Vast, icy wilderness offering boat tours to view glaciers and sea life. Key sights include the Harding Icefield and abundant marine wildlife.
Alaska SeaLife Center: A research facility and public aquarium with exhibits on marine ecosystems and rehabilitation programs for marine animals.
Exit Glacier: An accessible part of the Harding Icefield Trail, providing up-close views of a retreating glacier. Guided walks and interpretive talks are available.
Resurrection Bay: A hotspot for kayaking, fishing, and scenic boat tours. The bay is known for its calm waters and dramatic mountainous backdrop.
Mount Marathon: Famous for its challenging annual race. The mountain offers hiking trails with panoramic views of Seward and the bay.
Seward Boat Harbor: The launching point for fishing charters and sightseeing cruises. The harbor area also features shops and restaurants.
Seward Museum: Showcases local history, including exhibits on the 1964 earthquake, the founding of Seward, and native cultures.
Ididaride Sled Dog Tours: Offers a hands-on experience with sled dogs and a ride in a wheeled sled during the summer, led by experienced mushers.
Waterfront Park: Ideal for leisurely walks, picnicking, and enjoying beachside views. The park frequently hosts community events and markets.
Fourth of July Celebration: Features the famed Mount Marathon Race, a parade, street vendors, and fireworks, drawing a festive crowd.
Expanded List of Tour Providers
Major Marine Tours: Specializes in glacier and wildlife cruises with options for meal service and narration by naturalists. Boats are equipped with viewing decks and heated cabins.
Kenai Fjords Tours: Offers a range of day cruises that explore the fjords and wildlife. Includes specialized tours with focus on photography or bird watching.
Adventure Sixty North: Outdoor adventure tours including kayaking, ice hiking, and winter snowshoeing. They cater to all skill levels and offer personalized group tours.
Stoney Creek Canopy Adventures: Provides a thrilling zipline experience through the forest canopy, offering spectacular views and an adrenaline rush.
Seward Helicopter Tours: Offers helicopter flights over the glaciers with options to land on icefields or take part in dog sledding on snow even in summer.
Seward Ocean Excursions: A family-run business offering bespoke boat tours for wildlife viewing, fishing, and exploring remote areas.
Exit Glacier Guides: Specializes in hiking and ice climbing tours on Exit Glacier. They offer educational tours that emphasize glacier research and environmental impact.
Sunny Cove Sea Kayaking: Provides kayaking tours in Resurrection Bay and Kenai Fjords National Park, focusing on intimate wildlife encounters and eco-friendly practices.
Liquid Adventures: Offers advanced kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding tours, including excursions to remote waters and glacier lagoons.
Aurora Charters: Specializes in fishing and wildlife sightseeing, known for their knowledgeable guides and excellent customer service.
Accessibility Information
Most attractions in Seward offer basic accessibility, including wheelchair ramps and accessible restrooms. Kenai Fjords National Park and the Alaska SeaLife Center are notably accommodating for visitors with mobility challenges.
Local Cuisine
Seafood is the star in Seward, with fresh catches like salmon, halibut, and crab. Recommended dining spots include:
Ray’s Waterfront: Known for its fresh seafood and bay views.
The Cookery: Features local ingredients in innovative dishes.
Shopping and Souvenirs
Shop for unique local crafts, especially native artwork, in the downtown area. Popular items include carved totems, handmade jewelry, and Alaskan-themed quilts.
Fun Facts
Seward is one of the few places in the world where a glacier is accessible by road.
The city was almost entirely rebuilt after the 1964 Alaska earthquake, the most powerful recorded in North American history.
