Resurrection Bay and Seward

     Seward is one of the oldest communities in Alaska, named for U.S. Secretary of State William H. Seward, who played a key role in the purchase of Alaska from Russia in 1867. It was established in 1903 as the southernmost terminus of the Alaska Railroad, and continues to hold that distinction today - albeit with a new terminal. (The original terminal was destroyed as a result of the 1964 Good Friday earthquake and subsequent tsunamis.)

     Seward is extremely charming and picturesque. Nestled between the head of Resurrection Bay and the base of Mt. Marathon (elevation 3,022 feet), it possesses a character that is warm and inviting. Downtown Seward presents visitors with a gracious and animated atmosphere, and its year-round population of approximately 4,000 grows significantly during the summer when Seward’s harbor comes alive playing host to cruise ships, along with numerous private boaters and commercial tour operators. The largest holiday in Seward is most likely the Fourth of July, when numerous visitors gather here to watch the Mount Marathon Race - a grueling run up to the top of the mountain and back down again. Seward is also home to the Alaska SeaLife Center, a 52 million dollar research center that was opened in 1998. This facility allows visitors underwater views of Steller’s sea lions, seals, and numerous species of fish, and provides tactile exploration of many different sea creatures. In addition, it is the only professional entity in the state that has the capability of caring for sick or injured marine animals. Other attractions in Seward include the Kenai Fjords National Park Visitors Center, The Seward Museum, The Chugach Heritage Center and a movie and slide show detailing the 1964 earthquake shown at the Seward Community Library.

     Seward is most well known for its outstanding small boat harbor and its fabulous location at the head of Resurrection Bay, named by the Russian fur trader and explorer Alexander Baranof in 1792, when he found refuge from a storm in its waters on the Russian Sunday of the Resurrection. Resurrection Bay awards visitors with stunning scenery, abundant wildlife viewing and excellent fishing opportunities. Enjoy an up-close view of sea otters frolicking in the crystal blue water. Admire the incredible landscape as deep, glacier carved fjords form the remarkable coastline. Explore the numerous coves and islands which are all a special part of the beauty of Resurrection Bay. Marvel at the granite peaks which surround you as you voyage through this sheltered bay. Also, take advantage of the great fishing found in Resurrection Bay - hook into a mighty halibut or - if your timing is right - land yourself a few silver salmon. Above all, be sure to enjoy this very special marine paradise.