Traveling to Seward
A little lost with all the information you googled about Alaska?
We compiled this page to help you find your true north
Expeditions Northwest is located in Seward, Alaska.
Seward is a small, scenic coastal town on the Kenai Peninsula in south-central Alaska. Seward has a year-round population of just under 3000 people. Due to the beautiful views, wildlife, and many recreational activities, the number of people in Seward during the summer swells dramatically.
Although Seward is 2 hours away from the big city, Anchorage, you can drive to and from Seward. You also have access to the rest of the state. Typically, people fly into Anchorage and drive the 127 miles south to Seward via the Scenic Seward Highway.
*Pro-tip: Not sure where your next town in located in relation to where you are? Ask any local and they will put their hand up and show you just where in Alaska you are on the “hand map” that every Alaskan uses!
Whats the best way to get to and around Seward? However gets you here! Car, train, plane, boat, bus, bike!
We recommend renting a vehicle as it gives you the most freedom to see the most of Alaska, but there are many bus/shuttle options. You can also take the Alaska Railroad train that departs once daily at 6am from Anchorage to Seward.
Air travel is an option for few, but relatively cost prohibitive and there are no scheduled flights, you will have to find someone to charter a plane.
If you are arriving via cruise ship, you will disembark on the far side of the Seward small-boat harbor. It is a long walk to the harbor with luggage or an embarrassingly short drive, depending on where you booked accommodations.
Car/Van
Wanting to rent a car in Alaska? Here is a very non-exhaustive list of options we recommend checking out:
Renting in Seward
Seward has a locally operated rental agency and is available for pick up or drop off. Try to book ahead of time to accommodate your needs.
If you want to rent directly from locals.
Renting out of Anchorage
Alaska Adventure Car and Camper Van Rental - Economy Cars Rentals
They have all kinds of vehicles, including camping setups for boondocking
The “Fishermen’s Special” is a great option for those who are heading to the Kenai Peninsula! They do book out quickly because the rental car game in Alaska can be quite spendy, so please plan ahead!
Van Life: All about that VanLife, but haven’t been able to get the experience yet? Check out some of camper van options!
Bus/Shuttle
Here are locally operated companies that offer daily trips to and from Seward/Anchorage and beyond:
Red Eye Rides is more than a shuttle service. We are proud Alaskans that love showcasing our beautiful state to visitors and locals. Our passengers say a ride with our crew is like a road trip with a friend. We make each trip memorable, comfortable, enjoyable and can’t wait to share more experiences with YOU!
Seward Bus Line is a passenger transportation company operating out of Anchorage, Alaska. Our depot is conveniently located in midtown Anchorage at 1130 W International Airport Rd.
Not so locally owned:
Park Connection Bus
The Park Connection bus line operates two trips each day during the summer between Anchorage and Seward. The morning departure is part of our “Seward Express” route and is designed to allow guests to connect with one of the many day cruises into Kenai Fjords National Park. The Seward Express offers drop offs at the Seward Windsong Lodge, Gateway Hotel, and the Small Boat Harbor. If you are planning a day trip from Anchorage we recommend taking the bus to Seward, cruise Kenai Fjords and then return to Anchorage by train. The bus and train travel slightly different routes so this allows you to see the most Alaska scenery. This itinerary can be reversed as well, and our unique online booking system allows you to compare and book both the rail and the coach at the same time.
Bike
Seward Bike Shop
Don’t want to increase your carbon footprint? Brought your cute cycle outfit, but forgot your bike? Rent locally downtown!
Check out The Seward Bike Shop’s Guide to Seward Trails!
They even offer Guided Tours
*Remember Seward is a temperate rainforest and there is no such thing as bad weather, just bad gear!
Train
Coastal Classic Train | Alaska Railroad
The “coastal classic” train schedule and link to buy tickets to ride between Seward and Anchorage. If you never have made this trip, the train is a beautiful way to view the Scenic Seward Biway, but it does take longer than simply driving a car. Maybe take it one way? *Hint most of the railway route is parallel with the road, but the train is a very fun experience!