Discover Seward: Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour of Resurrection Bay & Historic Harbor
Walk Seward at your own pace with a downloadable audio guide that threads maritime history, geology and local stories into a two-hour harbor loop. Start at the Alaska SeaLife Center and let the town’s past—and its coastal views—set the tempo.
The Experience
Before You Go
Download before you go
Download the audio files and offline map while you have reliable Wi‑Fi; cellular service can be patchy in parts of town.
Dress for wind and spray
Bring a breathable waterproof layer — sudden squalls and sea spray are common even in summer.
Bring batteries or a power bank
The tour relies on your device and GPS; a small power bank keeps the audio running and your camera charged.
Use comfortable, grippy footwear
You’ll cross paved sidewalks, wooden boardwalks and some gravel — shoes with good tread improve comfort and safety.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Tiny exhibits inside the Seward Library Museum (local railroad and sled-dog displays)
- •The small beach behind the Founder's Monument for quiet harbor views and tide pools
Wildlife
- •Bald eagles
- •Harbor seals (and occasional sea lions)
Conservation Note
The Alaska SeaLife Center and local groups monitor marine mammals and fisheries; visitors are encouraged to follow ‘leave no trace’ guidelines and respect wildlife viewing distances.
Seward’s growth was shaped by the Alaska Railroad and maritime commerce; the 1964 earthquake and tsunami dramatically altered the town’s shoreline and led to large-scale rebuilding.
Photographer's Notes
- • Pier near the Alaska SeaLife Center for harbor and mountain framing
- • Founder's Monument shoreline for tide-pool foregrounds and distant ridges
- • Old Alaska Railroad Depot area for historic structures and train–mountain juxtapositions
What to Bring
Waterproof jacketEssential
Blocks wind and rain common in spring shoulder seasons.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Stable soles for mixed pavement, boardwalks and gravel.
Over‑ear or in‑ear headphonesEssential
Clear audio improves narration and directions on the route.
Portable battery pack
Keeps phone GPS and audio running during extended stops or detours.
Common Questions
Where does the tour start and end?
The suggested start is the Alaska SeaLife Center; since it’s self-guided you can begin and finish anywhere on the route, though the SeaLife Center is a convenient hub.
How long is the tour and how much walking is involved?
The audio runs about 90–120 minutes; expect roughly 2 miles of walking with under 200 feet of total ascent depending on detours and pauses.
Is the tour suitable for children or strollers?
Most paths are stroller-friendly on paved sections, but some boardwalks and gravel spurs can be bumpy—young children should be supervised near docks.
What languages is the audio available in?
Currently the audio tour is available only in English.
Do I need internet while walking?
No—download the audio file and map in advance. Having a charged device is essential for GPS and playback.
Are there restroom and food stops on the route?
Yes—public restrooms are near the SeaLife Center and downtown, and multiple cafés and seafood kiosks line the harbor for meals and snacks.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2 hours
Location
Seward, Alaska
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: able to walk 2–3 miles with short stops and light elevation, and stand for exhibits.
Ready to Explore Seward?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now