- Alaska Made
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Welcome to Seward! We're a small town with a big heart nestled in Resurrection Bay, and we're excited to share our home with you. Whether you're visiting from near or far, we've put together this guide to help you get to know our town:
Once you arrive in Seward (and get through the road construction if you are driving!), you will find the Seward Boat Harbor, which has shops, restaurants, bars, boat tours, and more for you to explore. You can see more of the town by heading to Downtown Seward – about 1.5 miles from the Harbor where there are even more options available for you. Not sure exactly where to start? Check out this local guide we’ve pulled together for you:
Seward Boat Harbor
Where to shop? Forests, Tides & Treasures
That’s us! Explore our unique apparel collection, top-brand outdoor gear, and Alaska-made wares. Forge connections with local artisans through stunning art, jewelry, locally sourced gourmet foods, unique gifts, and souvenirs. Commemorate your adventures to Seward by taking home your very own Alaskan treasures. Did you find something you like in-store but don’t have room in your suitcase to take it home? We can ship it to you directly! Speak to a member of our team to learn more. We’re open from 10am - 6pm daily, see you soon!
Where to shop? The Fish House
Locally owned and operated by the Clemens family since 1974. The Fish House is the business Alaskans use for their fishing charters and tackle. With 5 vessels ready to charter and over 30,000 square feet of retail floor space this is one store you won’t want to miss!
The Fish House can supply marine supplies, RV supplies, tackle, ammo, clothing, and so much more.
Where to shop? Once in a Blue Moose
Once in a Blue Moose is a family business with gift shops in Anchorage, Talkeetna, and Seward, stop in for a great selection of souvenirs, Alaskan gifts, and clothing.
Where to eat? Ray's Waterfront
Ray’s Waterfront is a welcoming restaurant and bar with spectacular views of mountains, sea life, and boat harbor activity. They've been making people smile since 1986 with tasty food made from scratch and friendly service. Their menus feature local seafood, quality steaks, fresh vegetables, bold flavors, and a great selection of wine and beer. They're now closed for the 2024 season, but will be open again next spring!
Where to eat? Tidewater Taphouse
Tidewater Taphouse features 16+ taps, creative pub fare and Alaskan seafood, and often has live music during the summer months. The second floor offers great views of the Seward Harbor and the infamous Kraken bar.
Where to eat this winter? Alaska Seafood Grill
Located in the Harbor, Alaska Seafood Grill provides a variety of fresh, Alaskan seafood in a fast casual environment. All items are offered a’la carte, giving you the freedom to choose only your favorite type of seafood, or mix and match to sample the ocean's bounty. Pro tip: try the fish & chips, you won't regret it!
Where to grab a coffee or smoothie? Nature’s Nectars
Nature’s Nectars creates every drink they serve with great care and passion; which means only serving NECTAR! In the dictionary, nectar means a delicious drink--the drink of the gods, and their espresso, tea, cocoa, and real fruit smoothies fit the bill. Now closed for the 2024 season, but they'll be back in May of 2025!
Where to grab a coffee? Seward's Cup
On your way into town, heading towards the Harbor, you'll see a big, green mug with some of the best coffee you'll find in Seward! Be sure to stop and grab a cup of joe before heading into town.
Where to grab a coffee? Supaluck's Bakery
This charming bakery opened right next door to us this past summer! Offering delicious pastries, savory treats, and coffee -- you don't want to miss this spot the next time you're in Seward.
Where to get ice cream? Harbor Street Creamery
Whether you’re in the mood for a smoothie, milkshake, ice cream, or sundae, Harbor Street Creamery is the destination for you! Harbor Street Creamery is the perfect destination for summer days and is a great spot for locals and visiting families alike. Now closed for the 2024 season, but they'll be back in 2025!
Where to grab a drink? Breeze Inn Restaurant & Lounge
Breeze Inn's Alaska-themed lounge features pool tables and large screen TV's for watching your favorite sporting event. Featuring seven beers from Alaska's craft brewers, you're sure to get a great taste of the 49th state.
Where to take a boat tour? Major Marine Tours
Experience world-class glacier & wildlife day cruises in Kenai Fjords National Park. Visit tidewater glaciers and see whales, otters, puffins, and more! Major Marine Tours is locally-owned and operated and is committed to responsible whale-watching practices and environmental responsibility. Their last cruise of the season is October 13th.
Where to take a boat tour? Kenai Fjords Tours
Kenai Fjords Tours has been exploring the magic of Kenai Fjords since 1978 -- from the waters of Resurrection Bay to the distant fjords and glaciers, a lifetime of passion and adventure comes together with every tour. The Kenai Fjords Tours Fleet is Adventure Green Alaska certified. Adventure Green Alaska (AGA) is a voluntary certification program of the Alaska Travel Industry Association (ATIA) for sustainable tourism businesses operating in Alaska that meet standards of economic, environmental, and social sustainability. Their last cruise of the season is September 29th.
What to do? Sunny Cove Kayaking
Have you ever imagined a place of turquoise blue waters, tidewater & hanging glaciers, islands of protected coves, and rugged cliffs teeming with whales and puffins under glorious skies? It's all here waiting for you! Sunny Cove strives to provide unique, once-in-a-lifetime experiences and personal, authentic connections. Stop by their headquarters in the Seward Boat Harbor to learn more. Although their tours are done for the 2024 season it's never too early to start booking your tour for 2025!
What to do? Exit Glacier Guides
Exit Glacier Guides is a guiding and hiking company focused on providing affordable tours in the Exit Glacier area of Kenai Fjords National Park. They have been running hiking tours out of Seward for seven years now, and are the only company in town offering guided glacier tours. They're now closed for the 2024 season but will be back in 2025!
What to do? Kenai Fjords National Park Visitor Center
The Kenai Fjords National Park Visitor Center is a great place to visit either before or after your boat tour of Kenai Fjords.
The center offers information, an auditorium for showing our park film, an Alaska Geographic bookstore, and rangers are available to answer questions about the area. Now closed for the 2024 season, but will be back in 2025!
Where to stay Year-Round? Harbor 360
Located directly on the Seward Small Boat Harbor, Harbor 360 Hotel is open year-round, locally-owned, and offers guests stunning 360 degree views of Resurrection Bay and the surrounding Kenai Mountains. They're also the home-base for Major Marine Tours if you're looking to venture out on the waters for a wildlife cruise.
Where to Stay Year-Round? Breeze Inn Motel and Restaurant
Located at the heart of Seward's Small Boat Harbor, Breeze Inn Motel and Restaurant boasts 86 modern and comfortable rooms to choose from. Their lodging options include jacuzzi suites, fully accessible rooms, pet-friendly rooms, and more year-round. They also have a full-service restaurant and lounge, two gift shops, and espresso shop.
Downtown Seward
Where to shop? The Ranting Raven
Located in Downtown Seward, The Ranting Raven is a gift store and local gallery offering handmade jewelry, art, ceramics, and so much more!
Where to shop? Gypsea Treasure Trunk
Located in Downtown Seward, Gypsea Treasure Trunk offers a mix of new and second hand accessories, decor, health & beauty, clothing and, many more treasures!
Where to shop? Nakao Ceramics
Jenny Nakao is a studio potter making functional ceramics with the ideas of comfort and playfulness in mind. Jenny's ceramics shed on Sixth Avenue is non-electric and the LED sign is run off of a solar panel, so even if the sign is out of juice, they are still open during daylight hours - about 10-5pm in the winter.
Where to shop? Frontier Trading Post
Frontier Trading Post is Seward's only all-in-one, downtown grocery, deli, coffee shop, gift, and health food store. Stop in to find out more about their daily specials and find the perfect souvenir for your travels!
Where to shop? Primrose Provisions
Primrose Provisions is a unique shop located on the waterfront here in Seward, AK. From found furnishings and vintage goods, gifts, makers market, cheese and charcuterie, to even a wine bar, Primrose Provisions has it all!
Where to shop? Alaska Shop
Located in downtown Seward, Alaska Shop is a great destination for souvenirs and features an impressive range of products made right here in Alaska.
Where to shop? Seward Bike Shop
The Seward Bike Shop is a full service bicycle shop offering new bike sales, a full line of replacement parts, and accessories. Their inventory includes Mountain, Gravel, Urban, Dirt Jumper, Touring, E-bikes, and Youth bikes. The full service repair shop offers affordable repairs for all years, makes, and models of bicycles. They also always have bikes to rent.
Where to shop? Dreamland Books & Yarn
Dreamland Books & Yarn is the sister company to Resurrect Art coffee shop, a fan favorite in town. Here you'll be able to shop for your next favorite book and yarn for the project you're working on.
Where to eat? Flamingo Lounge
The Flamingo Lounge is breathing new life into old history in their downtown, Martin Scorsese-esque lounge. They offer craft cocktails and classic eats – certainly worth stopping by for.
Where to eat? The Cookery
Since opening The Cookery in 2015, Chef Kevin Lane and his wife Stacey have been showcasing Alaska's bounty: fresh oysters delivered daily, locally farmed meats, produce sourced from the Kenai Peninsula, foraged finds, and fresh fish paired with wines from all over the world, and locals' favorite beers on tap.
Where to eat? The Highliner
The Highliner is one of the best spots in town for the whole family to enjoy. Serving American classics and supporting local, natural, sustainable & organic practices, whenever possible, The Highliner is a favorite with Seward residents. Next time you stop by, try the tater tots, you'll thank us later!
Where to eat? Apollo Restaurant
Apollo Restaurant is one of our favorite local destinations for seafood! Just went out on a fishing charter and caught yourself a big one? Bring the fileted fish with you to Apollo Restaurant and they will prepare it specially for your meal!
Where to eat in the winter? The Lone Chicharron
To quote The Lone Chicharron, "The tiny seaside town of Seward Alaska, there is a tragic taco void. Enter the Lone Chicharron Taqueria." Located next to the Seward Alehouse, The Lone Chicharron offers delicious Mexican food! Even better? They have a window in the Seward Alehouse so you can enjoy drinks and a taco on a night out!
Where to grab a coffee? Resurrect Art Coffee House
Resurrect Art Coffee House is a favorite gathering place for locals and visitors alike. Come check out the artwork from local artisans, sip on espresso drinks and teas, and enjoy the view from their loft sitting area. They also have a bakery onsite, so you can enjoy freshly baked goods while you visit. Open 7am - 5pm daily.
Where to grab a coffee? Zudy's Cafe
Zudy's Cafe features stunning oceanside views and some of the best soups and sandwiches that you'll try! Owned locally by Judy and Jan, Zudy's Cafe is the perfect lunch destination for your visit to Seward.
Where to grab a coffee? Rowdy Radish
Rowdy Radish is a new coffee shop in the heart of downtown that serves craft espresso drinks and freshly made breakfast and lunch items. With a chill indie "PNW" atmosphere, it's a great place to relax and enjoy a delicious latte.
Where to get gelato or a coffee summer or winter? Sweet Darlings
Opened in 1997, Sweet Darlings has been a Seward staple for over 25 years! Offering a range of gelato, chocolates, fudge, and more, Sweet Darlings is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Where to grab a drink? Seward Alehouse
What's better than a bar with a great selection of beer and cocktails? Live music and free pool! Seward Alehouse has it all.
Where to grab a drink in the winter? Yukon Bar
Your one-stop-bar for winter fun, Yukon Bar offers great drinks along with weekly karaoke, and live music!
What to do? Alaska SeaLife Center
Located on the shores of Resurrection Bay in downtown Seward, the Alaska SeaLife Center is Alaska’s premier public aquarium and only permanent marine mammal rehabilitation center.
By combining a public aquarium with marine research, education, and wildlife response, the Alaska SeaLife Center creates a unique experience for visitors of all ages. The SeaLife Center’s animal rehabilitation efforts have even been featured on National Geographic’s Alaska Animal Rescue
What to do? Mural Walking Tour
Seward’s love of art is written on the walls! Officially designated ‘Mural Capital of Alaska’ in 2008, Seward has over 30 vibrant paintings throughout town. Each mural depicts unique historical characters, local events, and natural landscapes. Spend the afternoon walking through town and spotting your favorite murals. Can you find the whales swimming downtown, or the puffins hanging out in the harbor?
The Mural Society created a handy digital map showing the locations of each of the murals, with more murals being added often! The society has been painting the town since the first group of volunteers picked up their brushes in 1999. The group has grown over the years and continues to celebrate the beauty and spirit of Alaska through large and public artworks.
What to do? Seward Library and Museum
The Seward Community Library & Museum is a unique combined public library, museum, archives and community center serving Seward and the surrounding area, providing opportunities for equal access to information, technology, lifelong learning, community enrichment, and the preservation of Seward’s heritage.
Admission into the museum costs $5 for those aged 13+, under 13s get in free.
What to do? Seward Yoga Studio
Seward yoga offers daily movement and yoga classes as well as monthly events! Get your body moving and check out their schedule on their website, https://www.sewardyoga.com/
What to do with families? Explore Two Lakes
Two Lakes Trail is a relaxing, one-mile loop in downtown Seward, suitable for all-levels of hikers. Short and sweet, this trail winds you around an upper and lower lake and a beautiful waterfall to the south of the first lake. Moose are often spotted through this wilderness, be sure to keep your distance and do not disturb. Enjoy the covered picnic benches and take advantage of the charcoal grill.
What to do with families? Take a train ride
Discover for yourself why National Geographic Traveler ranked the Coastal Classic Train among their Top Ten Train Rides in North America. Departing from Anchorage, the train winds along Turnagain Arm, where the steep mountains of the Chugach Range plunge directly to the sea. Following a brief stop in Girdwood, the train continues to the end of Turnagain Arm and veers away from the road system into the backcountry wilderness – and what many consider to be the most scenic stretch of the entire Railbelt. Upon a late morning arrival into Seward the train comes to a halt on the shores of Resurrection Bay, before making the return journey to Girdwood and Anchorage at 6 pm that evening. Runs through September 15th.
What to do with families? Hike Tonsina Creek Trail
The hike to Tonsina Creek, a scenic 3 mile trail that takes about 1 hour in each direction, is a local favorite. Locals and visitors alike walk out to the creek itself, and some continue on to Caines Head State Park.
From the trailhead, a gradual climb takes you along the shoreline of Resurrection Bay where you’ll have occasional views of the water through the spruce and hemlock trees. Across the first section of Tonsina Creek, you’ll find a beautiful metal expansion bridge. If you’re here from late June through September, stop and look for salmon spawning in the waters below. You’ll then come to a long wooden expansion bridge over another section of the creek, which leads hikers an easy-to-reach portion of the shoreline. Enjoy the coastline and beach before heading back.
What to do with families? Visit Exit Glacier
Exit Glacier is the primary destination for visitors to witness up close the power of the glaciers. It is also the home to the Exit Glacier Nature Center and the trail head for the Harding Icefield Trail. The road to Exit Glacier is closed for the 2024 season but will reopen next spring!
What to do with families? Visit Waterfront Park
Seward Waterfront Park extends from the small boat harbor to the SeaLife Center and contains paid tent and RV camping, playgrounds, a skate park, picnicking areas, beach access, and a trail lined with historical landmarks.
What to do? Hike Mount Marathon
See the views of Seward from a unique perspective on top of our famous Mount Marathon, home of the annual Mount Marathon race on July 4th! During non-race times, you can enjoy the 4-mile hike and vistas to the top of Mount Marathon, starting from Madison Ave. in town!
What to do? Hike Lowell Canyon
This 1.6 mile out and back trail follows the Lowell river, offering beautiful views and great opportunities for birding.
Where to stay? Hotel Seward
Hotel Seward brings Alaskan history to life while serving up stunning views and comfortable rooms. Founded in 1905, you can peruse its unique history through displays in the lobby. There are room types for all travelers. The Alaskan wing features spacious rooms with an en-suite bath. The historic wing has European style rooms with a shared bath.
Where to stay year-round? Arctic Paradise B&B
Arctic Paradise Bed and Breakfast caters to the adventurous traveler and wildlife enthusiast! Owner, Mary Ann, designed the bed & breakfast to provide all the elements that she has enjoyed in her many travels. This includes unique character, beautiful decor, privacy, ease of getting to attractions, good personal advice, maps, books and videos on the area, great food and amenities in the room. As a professional wildlife biologist, Mary Ann loves wildlife and hopes to inspire your appreciation of wildlife too.
Visit like a local -- Wednesday Night Karaoke at Yukon Bar
Looking for something fun to do on a Wednesday night? You won't want to miss out on karaoke night at Yukon Bar! Bring a group of friends or come solo and sing your heart out! See you there.
Visit like a local -- Parks & Rec Skate Night at AVTEC
You won't want to miss out on the skate nights at AVTEC hosted by Seward Parks & Rec! Each skate night features a different theme and has set hours for kids skate and adult skate. Want to join in on the fun but don't have your own roller skates? Not to worry, they're provided! AVTEC hosts a variety events year round, for an up to date schedule check out this link: https://seward.recdesk.com/Community/Calendar
Visit like a local -- Hang at Miller's Landing
A short drive down to Lowell Point takes you to Miller's Landing, which features a cafe with a deck and gorgeous views. Serving drinks and yummy food, this makes for the perfect hang out spot and it's right on the water. During the summer months they even have live music occasionally, check out their website to see the lineup they have for this summer!
Around Seward
Where to eat? Woody's Thai Kitchen
Woody’s Thai Kitchen, named after Seward’s beloved and iconic Stellar sea lion, is just a short 5 to 10 minute walk south of the Seward Small Boat Harbor. They serve authentic, Bangkok-style Thai curries, soups, noodles and rice dishes along with specialties that infuse Alaskan-Pacific Northwest and Pacific Rim ingredients with traditional Thai family recipes.
Where to grab a coffee? Mudd Hutt
On your way out of town (or while you're waiting at the road work), be sure to stop at the Mudd Hutt -- a drive-up espresso shop that also serves excellent food. We'd recommend ordering from their all-day breakfast menu, for sure!
Where to stay year-round? Salted Roots
Whether you are looking to host a family of 6 tucked in the Spruce forest surrounding Salted Root's glass-front A-frames, getting away as a couple in their Cottages with a master bedroom view overlooking Resurrection Bay, or seeking an affordable, yet funky night in their Retro Bus, Salted Roots has something for everyone!
Where to stay year-round? Miller's Landing
Ideally located in Lowell Point, Miller's Landing offers a range of accommodation catering to every type of traveler. From campsites to cabins, yurts to lodges, Miller's Landing is a year-round destination for adventure.
Where to stay? Spruce Lodge
Spruce Lodge is family owned and operated, nestled by the Resurrection River and the picturesque Kenai Fjord National Park. Their recently renovated rooms make for a relaxing and cozy stay!
What to do in the winter? Kayaking at Miller's Landing
Bundle up and make your way down to Miller’s Landing to have a unique and serene adventure in Resurrection Bay during the shoulder season. Miller's Landing is offering short kayaking tours along the coast so winter travelers can enjoy some time on the water.
What to do in the winter? Snowmobiling with Kenai Backcountry Adventures
Glide through the protected wilderness of Kenai Fjords National Park, guided by a friendly, local expert who’ll lead you to stunning viewpoints and natural wonders. With the snow gently whisking around you and the simple serenity of the backcountry, a KBA snowmobile adventure offers an unforgettable glimpse into the heart of Alaska’s wilderness.
What to do in the winter? Dog Sledding with Seavey's IdidaRide
Visit Mitch Seavey's winter training facility in Sterling, Alaska. You'll meet the dogs - and some adorable puppies - then hook up teams of 4-6 dogs for a mush into the National Wildlife Refuge. You'll even get a chance to drive the sled! Now closed for the 2024 season, but their tours will start running again in April of 2025.
What to do year-round? Boat tour with Seward Ocean Excursions
Seward Ocean Excursions is a locally-owned and family-run business. They pride themselves in providing custom, small group trips all year long. In fact, they are Seward’s only year-round on the water boat business!
What to do? Raft the Resurrection River with Kenai Backcountry Adventures
For a more immersive adventure of the Alaskan wilderness go on a rafting trip down the Resurrection river. You'll have the opportunity to spot wildlife, enjoy breathtaking scenery, and have fun on some rapids with an experienced guide.
What to do? Marathon Helicopter Tour
Marathon Helicopter Tours offers a variety of scenic flights, from a short 15 minute ride to an hour long tour or even a glacier landing experience. It's a unique and breathtaking way to experience Seward and the surrounding wilderness. Now closed for the 2024 season, but their tours will resume in May of 2025.
What to do? Hike to Caines Head
This 14.4 mile out and back trail takes you to an old WWII fort and follows the beautiful coastline. If you decide to embark on this unforgettable hike make sure to be aware of the tides. The three mile stretch of beach between Tonsina Point and North Beach can be hiked only during a tide of +3 or lower. Leave the trail head at two hours before a +3 tide to avoid becoming stranded along the way.
What to do? Visit Lowell Point Beach
This is a great spot to watch for sea lions, sea otters, and shore birds, especially during high tide. At low tide this is a great place to see intertidal life. This beautiful beach is a great spot to take in all the views and wildlife that Seward has to offer.
What to do? Adventure Sixty North Kayaking
Adventure Sixty North is a small Outdoor Adventure Center in Seward, Alaska offering a variety of outdoor trips and services from May – Sept every year.
What to do? Turning Heads Kennel: Dog Sled Tour
Sign up for a summer dog sled tour with Turning Heads Kennel to meet the dogs, go on a 20 minute dog sled ride, and cuddle with the puppies! If you're feeling really adventurous you can choose the tour option that includes taking a helicopter ride out to an icefield where you will then go on a dog sledding ride. Now closed for the 2024 season, but their tours will resume in May of 2025!
What to do? Visit the Fourth of July Beach
Always dreamt of having a beach bonfire in Alaska? The Fourth of July Beach is the best spot to enjoy views of the bay, Seward, and the surrounding mountains while sitting around a bonfire. A short 15 minute drive takes you around to the other side of the bay where you can enjoy this beautiful beach.
If you want to learn more about any of the locations featured or want to see what else Seward has to offer, you can find more at Seward.com.
