Anchorage serves as the gateway to Alaska’s stunning wilderness, while Whittier and Seward provide access to Prince William Sound and Kenai Fjords National Park. Known for glaciers, marine life, and incredible scenery, this region combines outdoor adventure, cultural heritage, and small-town charm, making it a top stop for visitors.
Currency and Language:
- Currency: United States Dollar (USD)
- Languages: English is the dominant language spoken.
Cultural and Culinary Information:
The Anchorage area, including Whittier and Seward, is known for its proximity to breathtaking glaciers, fjords, and abundant wildlife. Fresh seafood like halibut, salmon, and crab dominate local cuisine, while the region celebrates Alaska Native culture through art, museums, and historical landmarks.
Top 10 Sites and Activities in Anchorage:
- Kenai Fjords National Park (Seward)
- Description: Explore glaciers, fjords, and abundant wildlife on a scenic boat tour through the park. Spot whales, sea lions, puffins, and calving glaciers.
- Cost: Boat tours range from $150–$250 per person.
- Distance: 1.5-hour drive (approximately 60 miles) from Whittier.
- More Info: Kenai Fjords National Park
- Portage Glacier & Portage Lake (Whittier)
- Description: One of Alaska’s most accessible glaciers, visitors can take a short cruise or hike for incredible views of the glacier and surrounding lake.
- Cost: $45 per adult for the Portage Glacier Cruise.
- Distance: 14 miles (20-minute drive) from Whittier.
- More Info: Portage Glacier
- Prince William Sound Glacier Tour (Whittier)
- Description: Experience breathtaking tidewater glaciers, waterfalls, and wildlife like seals and otters on a scenic boat tour.
- Cost: $150–$200 per person.
- Distance: Departing from Whittier cruise terminal.
- More Info: Prince William Sound Tours
- Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (Portage)
- Description: A sanctuary for rescued Alaskan animals, including bears, moose, wolves, and bison. Visitors can observe these majestic animals up close.
- Cost: $18 per adult.
- Distance: 11 miles (15-minute drive) from Whittier.
- More Info: Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
- Seward SeaLife Center
- Description: Alaska’s premier aquarium and marine research facility features seals, puffins, sea otters, and interactive marine exhibits.
- Cost: $29.95 per adult.
- Distance: 1.5-hour drive (60 miles) from Whittier.
- More Info: Alaska SeaLife Center
- Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel (Whittier)
- Description: This 2.5-mile tunnel is the longest combined vehicle-railroad tunnel in North America, providing access to Whittier.
- Cost: $13 per car (round trip).
- Distance: Starts in Whittier.
- More Info: Anton Anderson Tunnel
- Exit Glacier (Seward) (Free)
- Description: Hike accessible trails leading to the face of the glacier, offering stunning views and educational insights about glacial retreat.
- Cost: Free.
- Distance: 1.5 hours (60 miles) from Whittier.
- More Info: Exit Glacier
- Hiking the Portage Pass Trail (Whittier) (Free)
- Description: A moderate 4-mile hike leading to stunning views of Portage Glacier and the surrounding mountains.
- Cost: Free.
- Distance: Trailhead is 1.5 miles (5-minute drive) from Whittier port.
- More Info: Portage Pass Trail Info
- Resurrection Bay Boat Tour (Seward)
- Description: A wildlife-focused boat tour featuring orcas, sea lions, otters, and stunning fjords in the beautiful Resurrection Bay.
- Cost: $100–$150 per person.
- Distance: 1.5 hours (60 miles) from Whittier.
- More Info: Resurrection Bay Tours
- Whittier Harbor & Small Boat Marina (Free)
- Description: Enjoy picturesque views of fishing boats and surrounding mountains. It’s a great spot for relaxing and taking photos.
- Cost: Free.
- Distance: Located at Whittier port.
- More Info: Whittier Marina
Top Most Popular Restaurants in Anchorage:
- Swiftwater Seafood Café (Whittier)
- Known For: Fresh seafood dishes like halibut and salmon.
- Top Dish: Halibut Fish & Chips.
- Distance: 0.5 miles (2-minute drive or 10-minute walk) from Whittier port.
- Website: Swiftwater Café
- Ray’s Waterfront (Seward)
- Known For: Upscale dining with seafood and harbor views.
- Top Dish: Alaskan King Crab Legs.
- Distance: 1.5 hours (60 miles) from Whittier.
- Website: Ray’s Waterfront
Top Most Popular Cafes in Anchorage:
- Lazy Otter Café (Whittier)
- Known For: Coffee, fresh pastries, and sandwiches.
- Top Item: Smoked Salmon Bagel.
- Distance: 0.4 miles (8-minute walk) from Whittier port.
- Website: Lazy Otter Café
- Resurrect Art Coffee House (Seward)
- Known For: Artisan coffee in a charming converted church.
- Top Item: Mocha with homemade whipped cream.
- Distance: 1.5 hours (60 miles) from Whittier.
- Website: Resurrect Art Coffee
Events in Anchorage:
- Seward Silver Salmon Derby (August): Alaska’s oldest fishing tournament celebrating silver salmon.
- Fjords Festival (Seward)(May): Celebrates wildlife, glaciers, and the environment with tours and events.
UNESCO World Heritage Site:
While no UNESCO sites are directly in Whittier or Seward, Kenai Fjords National Park preserves unique glacial landscapes and ecosystems, offering incredible geological and wildlife experiences.
National Parks:
Kenai Fjords National Park: Known for stunning tidewater glaciers, fjords, and rich marine life, this park is a highlight of any Alaskan adventure. Located 60 miles (1.5 hours) from Whittier.