Whittier AlaskaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Whittier, Alaska.
1. Prince William Sound Glacier Cruise
BREATHTAKING GLACIER VIEWS
The Prince William Sound Glacier Cruise is an unforgettable experience offering breathtaking views of tidewater glaciers and abundant wildlife. Visitors can witness the majestic blue ice formations while keeping an eye out for marine animals including seals, sea otters, and whales. This popular 6-hour cruise is considered a must-do activity for anyone visiting Whittier.
2. Portage Pass Trail
SCENIC MOUNTAIN HIKING
Portage Pass Trail is a 4.2-mile round-trip hike that rewards adventurers with stunning views of Portage Glacier and Portage Lake. The moderate trail offers one of the best opportunities to see the impressive Portage Glacier up close without taking a boat tour. Hikers should come prepared with proper footwear and be aware that snow may remain on parts of the trail well into spring.
3. Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel
NORTH AMERICA'S LONGEST TUNNEL
The Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel is North America's longest highway tunnel at 2.5 miles and serves as the only land access to Whittier. This unique single-lane tunnel accommodates both vehicles and trains through a scheduled system, allowing traffic to flow in alternating directions at specific times. The tunnel itself is an engineering marvel carved through the Maynard Mountain, providing visitors with an unusual gateway experience to the town.
4. Prince William Sound Museum
LOCAL HISTORY EXHIBITS
The Prince William Sound Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Whittier's military history, including its strategic role during World War II and the Cold War. The small yet captivating museum houses artifacts, photographs, and detailed displays that tell the story of this unique Alaskan town. History enthusiasts will appreciate the rich collection of exhibits located in the heart of Whittier.
5. Horsetail Falls Trail
ACCESSIBLE WATERFALL HIKE
Horsetail Falls Trail offers a less strenuous hiking option at approximately 2 miles round trip, perfect for those seeking a shorter adventure. The trail features beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and cascading waterfalls that give the hike its name. Visitors can enjoy this accessible nature experience even with limited time in Whittier.
6. Begich Towers
UNIQUE RESIDENTIAL BUILDING
Begich Towers is a fascinating 14-story building where nearly all of Whittier's residents live, containing apartments, city offices, a police station, and even a school. This Cold War-era structure represents Whittier's distinctive living arrangement where most town amenities exist under one roof due to the harsh winter conditions. Visitors are often intrigued by this unusual self-contained community that exemplifies Alaskan adaptation to extreme environments.
7. Whittier Small Boat Harbor
CHARMING WATERFRONT VIEWS
Whittier Small Boat Harbor offers a picturesque setting where visitors can stroll along the waterfront and watch fishing boats come and go. The harbor serves as the heart of this small port town, with stunning mountain backdrops creating perfect photo opportunities. Visitors can explore local shops, enjoy fresh seafood, and experience the authentic maritime atmosphere of this working Alaskan harbor.
8. Buckner Building
ABANDONED MILITARY HISTORY
The Buckner Building is a massive abandoned military facility that once served as a self-contained city for U.S. Army personnel during the Cold War era. Although closed to public entry due to safety concerns, the exterior of this historic ruin stands as a haunting reminder of Whittier's strategic military past. The imposing structure, visible from various points in town, provides a striking contrast to the natural beauty surrounding it.
9. Whittier City Campground
SCENIC WATERFRONT CAMPING
Whittier City Campground offers visitors the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Prince William Sound with waterfront camping sites. The campground provides basic amenities for both tent and RV camping, with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and water. Campers can enjoy easy access to hiking trails, fishing spots, and the small boat harbor from this centrally located outdoor accommodation.
10. Inn at Whittier
HARBOR VIEW DINING
The Inn at Whittier features a restaurant offering some of the best dining experiences in town with panoramic views of Prince William Sound. Visitors can enjoy fresh Alaskan seafood and other local specialties while watching boats in the harbor and mountains in the distance. The restaurant provides a comfortable, upscale dining option in this remote coastal community.
11. Portage Glacier
RETREATING ICE WONDER
Portage Glacier is an impressive ice formation located just outside Whittier that can be viewed via boat tours or from the Portage Pass Trail. This retreating glacier has carved the stunning landscape of Portage Valley over thousands of years and remains one of the area's most significant natural attractions. Visitors to the glacier can learn about climate change impacts while witnessing the awe-inspiring blue ice formations.
12. Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
NATIVE ANIMAL SANCTUARY
The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is a sanctuary dedicated to preserving Alaska's wildlife through conservation, education, and quality animal care located near Whittier. Visitors can observe native animals including bears, moose, musk oxen, and wolves in spacious natural habitats. The center provides an excellent opportunity to photograph and learn about Alaska's diverse wildlife, particularly animals that have been orphaned or injured.
13. Blackstone Bay
KAYAKER'S PARADISE DESTINATION
Blackstone Bay is a spectacular fjord accessible by kayak or boat tour from Whittier, featuring multiple tidewater glaciers and towering waterfalls. Adventurous visitors can paddle among small icebergs while taking in the pristine wilderness and watching for wildlife including seals, sea otters, and eagles. This remote natural wonder offers one of the most intimate glacier-viewing experiences in Prince William Sound.
14. Lazy Otter Cafe
COZY WATERFRONT EATERY
Lazy Otter Cafe provides a casual dining experience with harbor views and serves as both a restaurant and a launching point for various tours in Whittier. Visitors can enjoy hearty breakfasts, sandwiches, and hot beverages before or after their Prince William Sound adventures. The cafe's convenient location and relaxed atmosphere make it a popular gathering spot for both tourists and locals.
15. Alyeska Resort
LUXURY MOUNTAIN GETAWAY
Alyeska Resort is a premier year-round destination located about 30 minutes from Whittier, offering luxury accommodations and outdoor recreation opportunities including skiing, hiking, and the scenic aerial tram. The resort's Aerial Tram takes visitors up 2,300 feet to panoramic views of mountains, glaciers, and the Turnagain Arm. Visitors can enjoy fine dining at the mountaintop restaurant and a variety of spa services in this upscale retreat nestled in the Chugach Mountains.