Seward Alaska is a magical port town that has it all. It’s surrounded by breathtaking (or intimidating if you’ve ever hiked Mt. Marathon) mountains and Resurrection Bay on the Kenai Peninsula. Seward has become my favorite place to visit when I need a getaway and it’s only about a 2 hour drive from Anchorage, without construction. My list of best things to do in Seward keeps growing.
With my current job, I have the privilege of visiting Seward once a month including the winter months so I have gotten to know this little town even better. Growing up in Alaska, I’ve been many times during summer but it’s different when you start to immerse yourself in the community. The people I’ve connected with are kind, fun and just overall badass humans. Some race up Mt. Marathon every year! CRAZY! Okay so let’s get to the fun places to eat and drink in Seward and my favorite activities.
Favorite Places to Eat in Seward Alaska
Best Tacos
Lone Chicharron Taqueria – don’t pass up the rockfish tacos, I mean you are literally in the best place to get fresh rockfish. I also love the carnitas. The tortillas are house made and make sure to get some salsa verde. Lone Chicharron is also the sister restaurant to The Cookery!
The Cookery – Fresh oysters and locally sourced produce and meats, I’m sold. This is a culinary gem hidden in small town Seward, Alaska. Everything I have ordered has been delicious. Fresh fish, Brussel sprouts, beautiful salads, you name it. They have great local beer and a good variety of wine too. If you want reservations during summer, good luck, better plan early!
Woodys Thai Kitchen – Panang curry is my go to but I also enjoy their Pad Thai. The portions are great and if you’ve been out hiking or kayaking all day, Thai food is a well-deserved comfort meal. Great place to go with family or friends.
Best Sandwiches
Zudy’s – Another waterfront place to eat with amazing sandwiches, a variety of beautiful cakes, pies and desserts that are like no other. The soups and salads change regularly on their blackboard. I guarantee you won’t be disappointed. I usually go for a hot sandwich and a slice of gorgeous cake.
Favorite Places to get a Drink…or Two
Primrose Provisions – I’m infatuated with this place. Locally baked goods, locally caught salmon and black cod charcuterie boards, AND amazing cheese. What else do you need? This delightful shop is waterfront and has the best cocktails, vintage goods and food to snack on. Perfect for a date night or solo.
Flamingo Lounge – This historic restaurant/bar/lounge whatever you want to call it, is located in downtown Seward and such a fun spot. They have done an amazing job revamping the menu with fun cocktails and have a deliciously curated menu. The halibut sandwich is my favorite with any drink the bartender makes with an umbrella in it.
Best Coffee
Resurrect Art Coffee House – OBSESSED is an under statement. Do I go here twice a day when I am in town? Maybe. Best coffee, locally made crafts, jelly, pottery, etc. I never leave without a latte, cookie and pair of earrings.
Best Dessert
Sweet Darlings – homemade chocolates, gelato, fudge, taffy and candy. I love the chocolate covered Oreos, nutterbutters and s’mores and can’t pass up a scoop of tiramisu gelato. It’s the best in Alaska.
Day Activities in Seward
Miller’s Landing Kayaking – Miller’s landing can taxi you to remote places or you can do a guided sea kayak tour. They have all the gear you need and have the best location right on Lowell Point. There are a ton of half day and full day trips depending what you are looking for and I have had nothing but great experiences with friendly knowledgeable guides. Great way to explore the area, see glaciers and be out on the water. I also got to teach a community yoga class and stayed in the cabins at Miller’s Landing this winter and it was dreamy!
The Apex Crossfit Seward– I love this gym! They have not only Crossfit classes but yoga, dance, and other fun fitness offerings. The coaches and members are welcoming and I drop-in now every chance I get.
Kenai Fjords Wildlife and Glacier Tours– To be honest since we have our own boat I am partial to Prince William Sound however if you are in Seward and are looking for fishing, glaciers, or want to see some wildlife highly recommend getting on a tour or charter. It’s going to be beautiful anywhere you are out in the ocean. We see otters, seals, sea lions, and whales all the time in the harbor and out on the water. It’s an experience of a life time.
Favorite Hikes in Seward
Exit Glacier– Favorite, very easy and accessible hike. Very mild terrain, not even a mile in distance. Great for taking family including grandparents and small kiddos. Beautiful views of the glacier and open year round.
Mt. Marathon– The view is amazing but be prepare for an intense hike and do your homework before going. That’s all I’m going to say. Took me close to 5 hours and it was a scramble up with slippery rocks and falling.
Lost Lake– This is a very long day activity and moderately challenging. The trail is about 14 miles long. I love this forest trail especially during blueberry season.
Staying in Seward for a long weekend? Check out my blog on Granite Mountain Lodge. If you are in Anchorage, check out my favorite places to eat!
