24- HR Road Trip Itinerary: Anchorage to Seward, Alaska
Seward, Alaska is a beautiful coastal community home to less than 3,000 people and was founded in 1903. The most popular attractions in Seward are Kenai Fjords National Park, the Alaska Sea Life Center, hiking trails, Kenai Peninsula, and water activities. I recently went on a day trip from Anchorage to Seward to spend the day exploring the area.
How to Get there:
The best way to Seward from Anchorage is along Seward Highway a national scenic byway. The Seward Highway is my favorite scenic drive so far in Alaska. I suggest purchasing a rental car so that you can stop at the many beautiful sites along the way. It is not a long drive, only about 2 hours from Anchorage making it a perfect day trip.
When to Visit:
I went to Seward in late September and I would recommend visiting this time of year to experience the beautiful fall colors and the smaller crowds. One thing to be aware of is that if you visit closer to the end of the season, (September- early November) there are not as many tour options and some stores may have closed for the season but there may be more budget-friendly options. Overall the best time to visit is typically during the summer months from June through August for warmer weather and full access to activities.
Where to Stop Along the Seward Highway:
Best places to stop on the way to Seward:
Potter Marsh: A popular wildlife viewing area located just south of Anchorage, Alaska, within the Anchorage Coastal Wildlife Refuge. A wooden boardwalk stretches across the marsh, providing scenic views of the wetlands and surrounding mountains.
Beluga Point Lookout: A scenic viewpoint along the Seward Highway, about 6 miles south of Anchorage. It's renowned for its stunning views of Turnagain Arm and the surrounding mountains.
Scenic Viewpoints: There are so many amazing viewpoints along the way. If you have time I highly recommend taking the time to stop and take in the scenery.
Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center: Home to various Alaskan animals, including black and brown bears, moose, bison, elk, and wolves. I recommend visiting here if you have a lot of time available. You could easily spend about two hours exploring and looking at the wildlife.
What to do in Seward:
During our day trip to Seward, we booked the 4-hour Kenai Fjords Wildlife Cruise Tour with Major Marine Tours. During the tour, we had the opportunity to see a lot of wildlife including eagles and seals. The scenery was breathtaking. Although the waters were very calm, I got a little seasick. If you are prone to getting seasick I recommend taking motion sickness medication Dramamine or Bonine before the tour. This is a seasonal tour operating from June 16 to October 12, so be sure to check the cruise dates before booking.
Additional activities in Seward:
Visit the Alaska SeaLife Center: a research and rehabilitation center, that offers an opportunity to see puffins, sea lions, octopuses, and other marine life.
Hike at Exit Glacier: Located within Kenai Fjords National Park and about 20 min from the city center of Seward.
Visit the local shops in downtown Seward.
Enjoy the many water activities such as fishing, and kayaking.
Where to Eat
During my day trip to Seward, I didn’t have time to try that many restaurants. I was able to try a new locally-owned bakery called Supaluck’s Bakery. The owner makes all the items fresh. I tried the chicken wrap and chocolate chip cookie. My husband tried the ham and cheese bread. The items were all delicious and I enjoyed the items we purchased.
Taking a day trip to Seward, Alaska from Anchorage is a must-do activity during your trip to Alaska. Check out my other posts for more Alaska itinerary ideas!
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