Visiting Alaska? Well…you can’t miss the scenic drive from Anchorage to Seward.
Filled with forestry, wildlife and spectacular views of mountains, the drive was awarded as a National Forest Scenic Byway, All-American Road, Alaska Scenic Byway or as my brother likes to call it ‘the best drive in the USA’.
We have done the drive from Anchorage to Seward a handful of times and let me tell you – it never gets old. While the drive itself is a beautiful sight, there are stops along the way that really capture the heart and beauty that is Alaska.
And if it’s your first time in Alaska, you are in for a treat! There are 9 impressive stops to make along the way that will leave you speechless.
Anchorage to Seward Drive – Overview
When you drive from Anchorage to Seward, the distance you will travel is 127 miles, only 2 hours and 30 minutes non-stop. But trust us, you are going to want to stop to take pictures, bask in nature and just have a fun Alaska road trip!
Tourist in Alaska? Simply book a car RentalCars.com or download the Turo app to rent a car for the drive from Anchorage to Seward – it’s worth the booking just for the drive. Seriously.
Why?
You will be met with glaciers, mountain views, lake views, ocean views, forestry – need I say more? And if you’re lucky, you might even see some wildlife like moose, bears, birds and more.
Here are the 9 spectacular stops you have to make while driving from Anchorage to Seward.
1. Flattop Mountain Trail
On the AllTrails app, this hike is rated ‘Easy’ and we’re living proof to say it’s anything but easy. Granted we are amateur hikers.
This is a popular hike that most tourists do when they’re in Anchorage. If you make it to the top, you are rewarded with stunning 360 views of Turnagain Arm, Chugach Mountains and maybe even spot Denali. Some days you’ll also watch the paragliders take off from the top too.
When you’re doing your drive from Anchorage to Seward, you might not want to hike for 1 hour and 30 minutes up a mountain but…
…you might want to take the small trails that still have stunning views. There is a viewpoint that only takes about 15 minutes to walk up to and it’s worth it! You might even get to spot some moose (like we did)!
Flattop Mountain is the first stop on your drive from Anchorage to Seward, only a couple miles from downtown Anchorage.
2. Turnagain Arm – Beluga Point
Beluga Point is one of the most spectacular stops you’ll make on this drive from Anchorage to Seward. I think it’s even so impressive – you’ll know when you’re getting close to Turnagain Arm.
You can almost see a 180-degree view of Turnagain Arm and possibly view the bore tide. Beluga point Lookout is filled with scenic views of mountains, water and wildlife – a stop that can’t be missed on the drive from Anchorage to Seward.
This can be a quick stop – probably 10 minutes or so depending on how many photos you want to take.
3. Alyeska Tram Ride
A fun Alaska road trip favorite is the Alyeska tram ride. Located in the quaint town of Girdwood is the world-famous Alyeska Resort known for impressive skiing and a scenic tram ride.
Once you turn into Girdwood and enter the Alyeska Resort, you can take the tram ride up the mountain at an elevation of 2,300 feet. At the top, you can enjoy views of Turnagain Arm and they also have a restaurant for dining with panoramic views to relax and recharge.
The ticket price for the Alyeska Tram is:
- Adult: $35 (19+ years old)
- Teens: $25 (13-18 years old)
- Child: $18 (5-12 years old)
- 5 and Under Child: Free
This is a worthwhile detour from Anchorage to Seward for any traveler – solo, couples or families!
4. Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
One of the best conservation centers ever! I might be a little biased but go and find out for yourself. Matthew and I spent a whole afternoon here and it was so much fun!
We got up close and personal with a brown bear (with a fence between us of course), watched bisons be bisons, and attended a wolf workshop.
The ticket price for the Wildlife Conservation Center is:
- Senior: $15
- Adult: $17 (18+ years old)
- Child: $13 (7-17 years old)
- 6 and Under Child: Free
- Open Daily from 10am – 6pm (last entry is 5pm).
The Wildlife Conservation is a great place to see and get close to the amazing animals in the great land of Alaska.
5. Portage Glacier
Between Girdwood and the road to Whitter, you have the chance to stop and see Portage glacier. You can choose to detour here and take a hike to see the glacier or you can take a ferry.
The entire hike could take the average hiker around 2-2.5 hours and it’s free to do.
The glacier cruise is a 1-hour tour and you could see the chunks of ice break of the glacier and bask in the beautiful landscape.
The cruise cost $45 for adults; $25 for a child departing at:
- 10:30am
- 12:00pm
- 1:30pm
- 3:00pm
- 4:30pm
For more info, visit the website here.
Whichever one you choose – you will be rewarded with stunning views of a magnificent glacier.
6. Whittier
Whittier is one of the most unique towns you may ever come across. There is only one way in and out – that is through a single tunnel…which closes at night. The 200 residents in Whittier? Most stay under one single building in the entire town. How’s that for community?
While the town itself is fascinating, you are also close to Prince William Sound. Another town called Valdez is the largest port in town – a popular tourist spot.
Whitter is a unique and memorable stop to learn about a small town with a rich history. A must-see if you have more time on your drive from Anchorage to Seward.
7. Moose Pass
Welcome to the Kenai Peninsula! Moose Pass will welcome you with gorgeous lake views and give you quaint small-town vibes.
This is a great place to take some photos, walk around and enjoy nature. Only a quick stop on your journey from Anchorage to Seward but a worthwhile one.
8. Crown Point
Another beautiful viewpoint on the drive from Anchorage to Seward is Crown Point. Similar to Moose Pass, it is just a quick pitstop to take some photos and enjoy the stunning views.
Have I said stunning views enough?!
We were able to take some cute photos on the train tracks, spent 15 minutes just walking around and watching others kayak or paddleboard across the water.
9. Kenai National Park – Exit Glacier
Exit glacier is your last stop on your drive from Anchorage to Seward. Located only 20 minutes away from Seward, you will find yourself a trail that leads to a stunning glacier.
If you want to get up close and personal to a glacier – Exit glacier is your chance! Only a 20-25 minute hike to the viewpoint which isn’t very hard and you’ll be able to spectate at the huge glacier.
You can also hike further to get closer to the glacier and even touch it – as we did! Be careful though – it’s all at your own risk.
You’ve Made It From Anchorage to Seward!
Seward has to be one of the most beautiful small towns we’ve ever seen. Whenever we go to Alaska, visiting Seward is at the top of the list. You get 360 panoramic views of mountains, water and rich nature.
While you’re in Seward, you’ll enjoy the small town vibes and you can leave your car at your hotel because it can be very walkable.
Here are some of the best things to do while you’re in Seward, Alaska:
- Kenai Fjords Cruise
- Whale Watching
- Fjord Viewing
- Helicopter Tours
- Kayaking
- Fishing
- Alaska SeaLife Center
One other popular thing to do in Seward is taking a cruise out on Resurrection bay to hopefully spot whales, puffins, and otters. You can also visit the Alaska SeaLife Center which gives you a closer experience to some animals like sea lions.
Here are some of our recommendations for cafes and restaurants in Seward, Alaska:
- Nice night out: The Cookery
- Cute coffee shop: Resurrect Art Coffee House
- Barbecue lunch: Firebrand BBQ or The Smoke Shack
- Mexican food: Lone Chicharron Taqueria
- Having a beer: Seward Alehouse
- Coffee & Bookshop: 13 Ravens Coffee & Books
Most people spend a weekend in Seward and comfortably fit most activities into 2-3 days. Plan everything accordingly because Seward is a very small town and things get booked up quickly.
Driving from Anchorage to Seward could be the drive of a lifetime if you can pack everything in there. Otherwise, you’ll just have to come back to Alaska!
Just remember:
The journey is also what makes a trip. Remember to stop and simply enjoy the scenery that Alaska has to offer. You won’t regret it!
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The Drive From Anchorage to Seward – Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the drive from Anchorage to Seward?
The drive from Anchorage to Seward takes approximately 2.5 hours by car.
Are there other ways to get to Seward?
You can catch the scenic Alaskan Railroad train all the way from Anchorage to Seward. The Alaska Railroad train costs $99 one-way for adults on the adventure class.
Is the drive from Anchorage to Seward dangerous?
We’ve driven this several times and we find it very safe. Just keep your eyes on the road and stop on the side if you want to see the views.
Is Seward Alaska worth the visit?
A thousand times, YES! Visit the Alaskan town where the mountains meet the sea and get 360 panoramic views of the Alaskan landscape.
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We want to hear from you…
Has Alaska been on your bucket list for a while? Which stop are you most looking forward to on this Alaska road trip?
Curious about travelling around Alaska? Check out our guide on the best way to see Alaksa.
