Seward is port-of-call on many Alaskan Cruises, but is probably one of the cities least explored by cruise passengers. It’s a sleepy town with streets lined with quaint old wood framed houses and businesses that date back to the late 19th century. This quiet community has plenty to offer for visitors who know where to look and have a deep interest in learning more about the history and culture of Alaska.
At CruiseExperts.com we encourage travelers to take in as much as possible during their adventures. Here are some great places to visit in Seward:
Alaska Sealife Center
Be warned that if you decide to visit this fascinating educational center, you may not want to leave! This $56 million ocean life research center was built with funds from the Exxon Valdez oil spill settlement. It is the only cold water marine science facility in the Western Hemisphere and is also a rehabilitation facility for injured animals. For an additional fee, visitors can take a behind-the scenes look at labs and veterinary facilities.
Photo courtesy of Alaska SeaLife Center
Many visitors say that the center’s best aspect is its series of two-story glass tanks. At the top, you’ll get an above-water view of lounging harbor seals, while at the bottom, you can see puffins diving for their next meal.
Photo courtesy of Alaska SeaLife Center
Caines Head State Recreation Area
Alaska may be the last place you think about when it comes to World War II sites, but those knowledgeable about the conflict flock to this area because of its historical significance. Caines Head is home to Fort McGilvray, one of the military installations that was built along the Alaskan coast to protect the state against a possible Japanese invasion after the island of Unalaska was bombed.
Photo courtesy of BackcountrySafaris.com
The fort is no longer active, but visitors are welcome to explore. Be sure to bring a flashlight if you want to go deeper into the establishment’s maze of underground passages and secret rooms. There are also a few short beach trails to walk along if you’re in the mood for a brief hike.
Photo courtesy of BackcountrySafaris.com
No, this trail isn’t 26.2 miles, but even some seasoned runners would argue that it’s just as challenging. This is the site of Alaska’s most famous footrace where athletes from all over the world compete to see how quickly they can traverse the 3.1-mile course with a 3,000-foot climb. The current record, set in 1981, is 43 minutes, 23 seconds.
You, of course, don’t have to put yourself through such an ordeal — especially when you’re on vacation! The affectionately named Jeep Trail (no cars allowed) will enable less-experienced hikers to get to the top of the mountain much more easily.
Seward Community Library & Museum
Check out that view from the Seward Community Library Museum
This museum isn’t as polished as what you would find in a larger city, but the work that community members put into it more than makes up for that fact. Highlights of the attraction include an Iditarod exhibit, a 49-star United States flag and relics from the 1989 oil spill.
Photo courtesy of the Seward Community Library and Museum
The museum also has a quirky collection of antiques including a 19th-century hair curling machine and a set of cow raincoats — designed for the cattle at the Seward dairy that were regularly rained on.
Alaskan cruises and cruisetours fill quickly, so you’ll want to begin making your summer plans as soon as possible. The staff at CruiseExperts.com is here to help you choose an itinerary and provide you with tips for places to see. Contact us by calling 1-888-804-CRUISE (2784) or visiting our website www.CruiseExperts.com.
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