25 Best Things To Do In Whittier Alaska (Glaciers, Hikes & Food)
Get the most from your Whittier, Alaska trip with 25 handpicked things to do in Whittier Alaska, plus pro tips on weather, tunnels, food and tours.
Nov 30, 20251.1K Shares59.2K Views
Things To Do In Alaska's Most Unique Town
Welcome to Whittier, Alaska - the strangest little port you’ll probably ever visit, and one of the hardest to forget. This tiny town is a logistical marvel, reached by a single one-way tunnel and dominated by a single apartment block where most residents live under one roof.
It sits at the edge of Prince William Sound, surrounded by steep mountains, waterfalls, and glaciers that feel far too big for such a small community.
Whittier isn’t just a stop on the way to somewhere else. It’s a place where Cold War history, engineering brilliance, Indigenous portage routes, and raw coastal wilderness collide. Many travelers only have a few hours here before or after a cruise, or on a day trip from Anchorage.
That makes planning crucial. The better you understand the tunnel, the timing, and the best things to do in Whittier, Alaska, the more your short visit will feel like a full-on adventure.
Whittier, Alaska At A Glance (Location & Access)
Before you start picking tours, it helps to know what kind of place you’re stepping into.
Where Whittier Is
- Located about 60 miles southeast of Anchorageat the head of Passage Canalon Prince William Sound
- A compact deepwater port town of roughly 250–300 residents
- Surrounded by steep mountains, tidewater glaciers, and dense temperate rainforest
- Major cruise ship and ferry port, with a harbor full of charter boats, fishing vessels, and tour operators
How To Get To Whittier
Most visitors reach Whittier in one of three ways:
By Car From Anchorage
- The trip usually takes about 1.5 hours in good conditions, longer in summer traffic or winter weather.
- Pass through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, a one-lane, shared rail-and-road tunnel.
- Drive the Seward Highwayalong Turnagain Arm, then turn onto Portage Glacier Road.
By Train (summer Only)
- The Glacier Discovery train connects Anchorage and Whittier on select summer days.
- This is a scenic, stress-free option if you don’t want to drive or deal with tunnel timing yourself.
By Cruise Ship Or Ferry
- Whittier is a cruise embarkation/disembarkation port for several itineraries in Southcentral Alaska.
- The Alaska Marine Highway System also serves Whittier, linking it to other coastal communities.
Top Things To Do In Whittier, Alaska During Summer
Summer is the lifeblood of Whittier, transforming it into a hub of activity between May and September. The tunnel operates on extended hours, and all tour operators are fully active, making the protected waters of Prince William Sound the undisputed star attraction.
1. Experience The Ultimate 26 Glacier Cruise
This is the flagship glacier tour from Whittier and one of the best single-day experiences anywhere in Alaska.
The 26 Glacier Cruise(about 5.5 hours) uses high-speed, modern catamarans built for long routes deep into College Fjordand Port Wells. These waters were carefully mapped and named during the 1899 Harriman Expedition, with glaciers named for elite American universities.
What makes it special
- Sheer glacier variety- You can see up to 26 named glaciers in one outing, including the towering, blue face of Harvard Glacier (a massive tidewater glacier that meets the sea) and the dramatic Yale Glacier, perched higher in its valley.
- A living glacier classroom- You’ll see hanging glaciers, tidewater glaciers, and retreating valley glaciers side by side, with commentary on how they formed and how quickly they’re changing.
- Big wildlife potential- The long route and deeper waters boost your chances of spotting Humpback whales, Orcas, Dall’s porpoises, harbor seals, and sea otters.
Pro tips
- Bring 8x42 or 10x42 binoculars and, if you have one, a telephoto camera lens.
- Dress in layers with a waterproof shell; even on calm days, you’ll want to spend time on deck.
- If you’re prone to seasickness, take precautions before boarding.
2. Take The Focused Glacier Quest Cruise
If your schedule is tighter or you prefer a shorter, calmer outing, the Glacier Quest Cruiseis a fantastic alternative at about 3.5–4 hours.
Rather than chasing the highest glacier count, this tour zeroes in on intensity and proximity in Blackstone Bay.
Highlights
- Close-up glacier viewing- Boats often approach within regulation safety distance of Blackstone Glacierand Beloit Glacier, where you can watch ice calve off the face and thunder into the water. Locals sometimes call that sound “white thunder.”
- Calm, protected waters- Blackstone Bay is sheltered, making this a better choice than offshore tours for travelers who dislike rough seas.
- Bird cliffs- You’ll pass towering cliffs dotted with Black-legged kittiwake nests, often with thousands of birds circling, calling, and feeding in the surrounding waters.
This is one of the most efficient ways to experience Whittier’s signature scenery if you only have half a day.
3. Hike The Iconic Portage Pass Trail
This is Whittier’s most famous and rewarding day hike, offering spectacular glacier views typically reserved for expensive helicopter tours. It is an essential stop for any active visitor.
The Terrain and Challenge: This roughly 4 to 4.5-mile roundtrip hike gains approximately 750 to 800 feet of elevation. The initial section (the first three-quarters of a mile) is famously steep and challenging, often covered with slippery snow or deep mud until mid-summer (late June/early July). Hiking poles are highly recommended for the descent, and sturdy, waterproof boots are mandatory for stability and warmth.
Many hikers continue down from the pass to the lakeshore, where you can walk among icebergs, dip your hands in the frigid water, and take standout photos with glacier ice floating in the background. It’s one of the most memorable things to do near Whittier if you enjoy hiking.
4. Go Sport Fishing For Halibut And Salmon
Whittier offers the closest, most accessible saltwater fishing charters from Anchorage, granting quick access to some of the richest feeding grounds in Prince William Sound.
- Target Species:Book a full-or half-day charter to fish for trophy-sized Halibut (often exceeding 100 lbs. the ultimate Alaskan fishing goal), various species of Salmon (King, Silver, and Pink), and bottom fish like Lingcod and Rockfish. Fishing season varies; Silver Salmon are abundant late in the summer.
- Logistics:Charter operators usually provide all necessary high-end gear, bait, and licenses, and include fish filleting and cleaning services. They often offer vacuum-sealing and shipping options. Be sure to coordinate your charter return time with the tunnel exit schedule many charters leave early (5:30 AM) to maximize fishing time.
5. Paddle Prince William Sound By Sea Kayak
For a quiet, intimate way to experience the Sound, kayaking is hard to beat. You can rent kayaks (for experienced paddlers) or join a guided sea kayak tour starting near the harbor.
- What you’ll experience: Glide past sea otters dozing on their backs, watch harbor seals hauled out on rocks, and weave among small ice chunks that crackle and hiss as trapped air escapes (“sizzling ice”).
- Backcountry Overnights:Remote US Forest Service cabins are available by booking and water taxi, offering a next-level, self-sufficient adventure.
Public Use Cabins & Backcountry Overnights In Prince William Sound
If you’re comfortable with backcountry travel and book well in advance, you can combine kayaking or water taxi transport with public use cabinsor beach camping in nearby coves.
- Remote US Forest Service cabinssit in sheltered inlets around Prince William Sound.
- A water taxi can drop you and your gear at a cabin or beach, then return after one or more nights.
- You’ll wake up to glacier views, waterfalls, and quiet bays with no roads in sight.
This kind of trip requires careful planning for tides, bears, weather, and self-sufficiency, but it’s one of the most unforgettable ways to extend your Whittier adventure.
6. Take A Unique Jet Ski Glacier Tour
For the thrill-seeker who wants speed, flexibility, and close contact with the water, guided jet ski tours are a modern, exciting option provided by local outfitters.
The Gear and Access:Equipped with full-body dry-suits and safety gear (which are mandatory), you can zip through the calm waters, accessing coves and close-up views of the coastal glaciers and waterfalls that larger, slower vessels cannot reach. It's an adrenaline-fueled, yet safe, way to experience the Sound's remote beauty.
7. Hike The Horsetail Falls Trail
This is an essential, easy walk for all ages and a great option if you have time to kill before your cruise or tunnel time.
The Experience:This leisurely trail (approx. 2 miles roundtrip) follows a well-maintained path and boardwalk, providing fantastic, easily accessible views of the cascading Horsetail Falls and overlooks the Passage Canal. It's often the best place near town for foraging wild blueberries in late August but remember to be aware of bears.
8. Explore The Bustling Harbor And Waterfront
The waterfront is the heart of Whittier’s summer activity, operating as both a vital fishing terminal and a busy tourist hub.
Activities:Walk the docks to watch the commercial fishing boats offload their massive, fresh catch; observe the State ferries (which connect to places like Cordova) loading passengers and vehicles; browse the small array of local businesses and souvenir shops clustered around the boat launch and grab some fresh seafood at a dockside cafe. This area captures the essence of a working Alaskan port.
Explore More: Things To Do In Alaska In July
Unique Things To Do In Whittier, Alaska (History & Logistics)
These activities are what make Whittier truly extraordinary. They stem directly from the town's secretive military past, its unique architecture, and its challenging logistical constraints, offering unique things to do in Whittier, Alaska.
9. Stay In The Historic Begich Towers
Whittier holds the record for one of the most unusual housing situations in America. Nearly 90% of its population lives in this single 14-story former military barracks (originally the Hodge Building).
The Concentrated Community: Booking a rental unit inside the Towers gives you a unique insight into Alaskan self-sufficiency. Residents can access the post office, a small convenience store (Whittier's only grocery), the local police station substation, a laundromat, a church, and the local health clinic-all via connected interior tunnels.
This concentrated vertical living is a profound cultural and historical experience you can actively participate in.
10. Drive North America’s Longest Combined Tunnel
The Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel is not just a passage; it's a mandatory experience and an engineering triumph that defines the town.
The Engineering Marvel: The 2.7-mile tunnel is the longest combined highway and railway tunnel in North America. Its surface is built upon the railroad ties, meaning vehicles share the single lane with the Alaska Railroad.
The intense moisture, darkness, and loud sounds inside the bore create a dramatic, unforgettable transition between the Portage Valley and the coastal fjord. This tunnel was instrumental in maintaining military secrecy during the Cold War.
11. Check Tunnel Times And Plan Logistics
This logistical step is an essential activity in itself, and failing to plan is the biggest mistake a visitor can make.
The Strategy:You must check the hourly schedule (one-way flow on the hour/half-hour) and plan your trip precisely around these openings to avoid potentially multi-hour delays. The time spent waiting at the staging area offers excellent photography opportunities of the western portal and the surrounding mountains.
Missing the last tunnel exit in summer (often around 10:30 PM) means an unavoidable overnight stay.
12. Visit The Eerie Buckner Building Ruins
See the massive, abandoned shell of the original "city under one roof" that was completed in 1953, pre-dating the Begich Towers.
The City That Never Was:This enormous, six-story structure was intended to be the permanent HQ but was severely damaged by the 1964 Good Friday Earthquake and deemed too costly to repair, leading to its abandonment in 1966. Its imposing, desolate façade stands as a haunting ruin near the current town center.
Entry is strictly prohibited due to its hazardous structural condition, but viewing its size and architecture from the exterior is a powerful photographic opportunity and a direct link to the town's military secrets.
13. Tour The Prince William Sound Museum
Whittier’s unusual story makes much more sense once you’ve walked through the Prince William Sound Museum.
Located in the Anchor Innbuilding, this small but dense museum offers:
- Exhibits on Whittier’s founding during World War IIas a deepwater military port (Camp Sullivan).
- Photos and artifacts from the era when supplies had to be moved in secret and in all-weather conditions.
- Details on the construction of the tunnel through solid rock, and how it was adapted for civilian use.
- An entire section on Whittier’s role during the Cold War, plus artifacts from life on base.
- Additional displays covering local natural history and Indigenous culturesof the Prince William Sound region.
There’s typically a modest entrance fee and extended summer hours, making this one of the best-value stops in town.
14. Take The WWII Historic Walking Tour
Engage in a self-guided tour focusing on Whittier's time as a military fortress, a prime example of things to do in Whittier, Alaska that are educational and free.
The Experience: Walk the waterfront area and surrounding hillsides to see remnants of old military docks, pilings, and defense infrastructure. Look for informational placards near the museum detailing the area's defense systems and fortifications against potential sea invasion during the Aleutian Campaign.
Things To Do In Whittier, Alaska During Winter
Winter in Whittier is quiet, challenging, and profoundly beautiful. Visitors should prioritize solitude, preparation, and safety, as most tourism infrastructure is shut down.
15. Navigate The Strict Winter Tunnel Schedule
The single greatest logistical challenge of a winter visit is mastering the extremely limited tunnel schedule. This must be your first point of planning.
The Extreme Challenge:From October through April, the tunnel often closes overnight and operates on highly reduced hours during the day. Missing a single time slot can mean waiting hours in the freezing staging area or being trapped overnight in Whittier. Planning your trip to the minute is non-negotiable for safety.
16. Book A Year-Round Water Taxi Or Charter
Most large glacier cruise vessels shut down in winter, but some specialized operators offer winter boat trips or hovercraft charterswhen conditions allow.
These smaller vessels can:
- Bring you into snow-covered fjordswith high, white mountains plunging straight into the sea.
- Drop you off for winter hiking, ice and snow photography, or remote cabin stays.
- Provide a view of Prince William Sound that feels nothing like the summer version - quieter, harsher, and more otherworldly.
You’ll need to dress for true cold, with backup layers and a willingness to adapt if weather turns.
17. Enjoy The Extreme Solitude And Tranquility
The town is virtually empty of visitors in winter, providing a genuine sense of quiet Alaskan living.
The Experience:Walk the empty docks, watch the dramatic winter fog and low clouds roll in over the mountains, and observe the unique, self-contained life of the residents inside Begich Towers. The deep calm and silence, punctuated only by the wind or waves, is a stark contrast to the summer bustle.
18. Seek Photography Opportunities (Aurora Borealis)
With minimal light pollution, long winter nights, and cold, clear air, Whittier offers excellent potential for viewing the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) on evenings with high solar activity. Pack a sturdy tripod, extra batteries, and use an Aurora forecasting app for the best results.
Free Things To Do In Whittier, Alaska
You don't need a massive budget to enjoy the scenic and historical aspects of Whittier. Many of the most rewarding activities only cost the initial tunnel toll.
19. Take Scenic Photos Of The Fjord And Mountains
The natural beauty surrounding the port, including the steep-sided fjords, hanging glaciers, and cascading waterfalls, is incredible and always free to photograph. The unique light quality over the water provides dramatic compositions year-round.
20. Visit The Whittier Public Library Inside The Towers
Hidden inside Begich Towersis the Whittier Public Library, one of the most unusual library locations you’ll likely ever see.
A visit gives you:
- A warm, quiet spot to glance through local books, historical photos, and community notices.
- A firsthand look at how much of the town’s life really happens inside that one building.
- A small but meaningful window into how residents manage long, dark winters and endless rain.
Check posted hours; they can be limited, especially outside peak summer.
21. Watch The Alaska Railroad Operations
Whittier is the end of the line for the Alaska Railroad's passenger and freight services. Find a safe viewing spot near the docks to watch the unique process of the trains loading/unloading cargo and making their way through the tunnel portal a fascinating logistical dance.
22. Hike The Shotgun Cove Trail Section
The full Shotgun Cove Trailis long and better suited to experienced hikers, but you don’t have to commit to the whole thing to enjoy it.
From the northern edge of town:
- Walk the initial, easier sectionthrough coastal forest.
- Pause at viewpoints over Passage Canaland toward more remote stretches of shoreline.
- Enjoy a quieter alternative to harbor crowds and day-cruise staging areas.
This is a good choice if you want a peaceful walk without tackling the steeper Portage Pass ascent.
23. Walk To Emerald Cove
Emerald Coveis one of Whittier’s quieter gems: a sheltered curve of shoreline with calm, green-tinted water and dense vegetation.
- The walk is roughly 3 miles round trip, generally following roads and easy paths from town toward the cove.
- Along the way, you’ll pass stretches of coastline, forested patches, and frequent viewpoints back toward Whittier and the surrounding peaks.
- At the cove itself, look for reflections, interesting rocks, and the subtle color change in the water that gives the spot its name.
It’s a great choice if you want a no-rush outingand don’t need a steep climb to feel like you’ve been in nature.
24. Hike The Blackstone Bay Vista Trail
For experienced hikers seeking a bigger challenge near Whittier, the Blackstone Bay Vista Trailoffers one of the area’s most expansive viewpoints.
- Plan on about 6–6.5 miles round tripand at least six hoursof hiking time.
- The trail is moderate to challenging, with longer stretches of uphill and rougher terrain than Portage Pass or Horsetail Falls.
- Views from higher along the route take in Blackstone Bay, its pristine waters, and, on clear days, distant glimpses of Blackstone Glacierand surrounding icefields.
Conditions can change quickly, and parts of the trail may be muddy or snow-covered well into summer, so it’s wise to check recent reports and be properly equipped before committing.
25. Relax At Lu Young Public Beach
If you’d prefer to sit still rather than hike, Lu Young Public Beachis an easy, beautiful place to slow down.
- The beach is named for Lu Young, a local who advocated for preserving Whittier’s natural beauty.
- Picnic tables and a simple path make it a perfect spot for a casual lunch, reading break, or quiet conversation with views of Passage Canal.
- The shoreline is pebbly and clean, ideal for gentle beachcombing and spotting interesting rocks, shells, and driftwood.
On a calm day, the combination of mountains, water, and the distant hum of harbor activity makes Lu Young Beach one of the easiest ways to enjoy Whittier without spending a dime.
Bonus Stops On The Way To Whittier (From Anchorage)
Many travelers combine Whittier with other nearby attractions along the Seward Highway. If you’re driving from Anchorage, consider adding these:
Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (AWCC)
Located near the junction of the Seward Highway and Portage Glacier Road, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Centeris a non-profit sanctuary housing:
- Bears, moose, wood bison, muskoxen, and other native species
- Spacious enclosures set against mountain backdrops
- Educational signage about Alaska’s wildlife and conservation efforts
It pairs perfectly with a Prince William Sound glacier cruise, giving you wildlife on land and sea in a single day.
Portage Valley & Begich Boggs Visitor Center
Just before the tunnel, Portage Valleyis packed with:
- Short walking trails through forest and along creeks
- Views of Portage Lakeand its surrounding glaciers
- The Begich Boggs Visitor Center, with exhibits on glaciology and local natural history
This area provides a more gentle, accessible look at glaciers and glacial lakes if you don’t want to hike Portage Pass.
Where To Eat In Whittier
The dining scene in Whittier is small, hyper-local, and heavily focused on the fresh catches brought in right at the harbor.
Local Dining Hotspots
- Lazy Otter Café:Lazy Otter Caféis ideal for a quick, satisfying meal with hearty sandwiches, fresh salads, and a selection of pastries and coffee.
- Whittier Oceanfront Cafe:Enjoy sandwiches, soups, and baked goods while taking in the stunning waterfront views.
- Wild Catch Cafe:Offers burgers, sandwiches, and seafood dishes, complemented by Alaskan coffee, beer, and wine.
- Whittier Ice Cream and Pizza:A family favorite serving up tasty pizzas and a wide variety of ice cream flavors.
- Swiftwater Seafood Cafe (Varly's):Dive into fresh seafood favorites like calamari, crab cakes, and fish and chips. Known for excellent clam chowder and fried halibut.
Fine Dining, Seafood Market & Processing
- Inn at Whittier Restaurant:Offers the town's primary fine dining experience. Expect fresh seafood, steaks, and Alaskan specialties with breathtaking views of Prince William Sound.
- Anchor Inn Restaurant:Provides a cozy atmosphere with a menu featuring local seafood, hearty breakfasts, and classic American dishes.
- Fee's Custom Seafoods (Essential Market):This is a vital stop near the harbor. You can buy fresh, local seafood (like Prince William Sound Spot Prawns) or utilize their expert processing service to have your own catch filleted, vacuum-sealed, and shipped home.
Where To Stay In Whittier
If you decide to stay the night, you have several unique accommodation options.
Stay “Under One Roof” In Begich Towers
Renting a unit inside Begich Towers is the most iconic Whittier experience. You’ll share hallways with local residents and access amenities like the post office and store via interior corridors, shielded from the weather. Expect functional, simple accommodations.
Waterfront Hotels & Inns
For travelers who want comfort and harbor views, book well ahead to secure a spot at the Inn at Whittier (stunning views), the Anchor Inn (welcoming atmosphere), or the Glacier View Condo Suites (cozy, convenient suites).
RV Parks & Campgrounds
- The simple Whittier City Campground near the harbor provides convenient, walkable access to the docks and town.
- Campgrounds near the tunnel entrance and Portage Glacier, such as Williwaw and Black Bear, offer more forested, peaceful settings.
Public Use Cabins & Boat-Based Overnights
For a rustic adventure, use Whittier as a launch point. Many public use cabins deep in Prince William Sound require water taxi access. This requires planning, and you must carry in all food, water treatment, and emergency gear.
Frequently Asked Questions About Whittier (Concise Version)
Is Whittier, Alaska, Worth Visiting?
Yes - especially if you’re drawn to places that feel a bit odd, remote, and unforgettable. Whittier isn’t a polished resort; it’s a working port tucked into a steep-sided fjord, with huge glaciers on its doorstep and most residents living in a single building. That combination is rare even by Alaska standards.
How Far Is Whittier From Anchorage?
Whittier is about 60 miles (96 km) southeast of Anchorage. The drive takes 1 to 1.5 hours, but you must add time (30–60+ minutes) to account for waiting for the scheduled, alternating flow of the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel. The scenic Alaska Railroad journey takes about 2 hours.
What Is The Best Time To Visit Whittier, Alaska?
The best time to visit Whittier, Alaska, is during the Summer High Season (mid-June to mid-August) for the most activity and the best chance of clear weather. However, the Shoulder Seasons (May and September) offer a great balance of value and fewer crowds.
How Much Time Should I Plan For A Trip To Whittier, Alaska?
For a comprehensive day trip that includes a major glacier cruise, plan for a minimum of 7–10 hours from the moment you enter the tunnel. Always include a buffer for logistical delays, especially for the tunnel exit.
Do I Need To Make Reservations For The Whittier Tunnel?
No, reservations are not required, but you must pay the toll and strictly follow the hourly schedule (one-way alternating flow) published ahead of time. Missing a window will result in significant delays.
Is Whittier Better For Glacier Cruises Than Seward?
Whittier is generally better for seeing actively calving tidewater glaciers (like Harvard and Blackstone) because the protected Prince William Sound waters are calmer and closer to the port. Seward is usually the better choice for guaranteed, frequent Humpback and Orca whale watching as its cruises venture onto the open Gulf of Alaska.
What Is The Local Dining Scene Like?
It is focused heavily on exceptionally fresh Alaskan seafood around the small boat harbor. Options are limited but high quality, featuring local catches like Halibut and Salmon. The Swiftwater Seafood Cafe is a popular spot.
Why Do Most Of The Residents Live In One Building?
Most residents live in the Begich Towers (a former Army barracks) for both convenience and protection from severe weather. The self-contained structure allows residents to access the school, post office, and essential services without having to go outside.
What Is The Average Weather Like During Summer?
Whittier is notoriously wet and cool. The average summer high is only around 60°F (16°C). Expect frequent fog, mist, and rain, making waterproof outer layers absolutely essential.
Conclusion
Whittier isn't your average quaint coastal town; it's a small community with a colossal, one-of-a-kind story. From the unique, scheduled passage through North America's longest combined road and rail tunnel to the sight of glaciers calving into the protected fjords of Prince William Sound, this trip is packed with bucket-list items.
You'll leave with a deep appreciation for its military past, its unique "city under one roof" lifestyle, and the sheer, overwhelming beauty of the Alaskan wilderness.
Prepare your schedule, check the tunnel times, and get ready for a trip to a port that proves the greatest adventures often hide in the most unexpected and seemingly inaccessible places.
Jump to
Things To Do In Alaska's Most Unique Town
Whittier, Alaska At A Glance (Location & Access)
Top Things To Do In Whittier, Alaska During Summer
Unique Things To Do In Whittier, Alaska (History & Logistics)
Things To Do In Whittier, Alaska During Winter
Free Things To Do In Whittier, Alaska
Bonus Stops On The Way To Whittier (From Anchorage)
Where To Eat In Whittier
Where To Stay In Whittier
Frequently Asked Questions About Whittier (Concise Version)
Conclusion
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