Getting to Seward

Explore your options for a stunning trip to Alaska’s coast

Plan Your Trip

Getting to Seward is part of the adventure, and no matter how you choose to travel, the journey is filled with breathtaking views. There are three main ways to reach this coastal town: by car, by rail, or by bus.

Most travelers arrive via Anchorage, home to Alaska’s largest international airport. From there, it’s about 120 miles south to Seward, a route that winds along one of the most scenic corridors in the state.

Beautiful Turnagain Arm on the Seward Highway. Seen while driving from Anchorage to Seward.
Beautiful Turnagain Arm on the Seward Highway. Seen while driving from Anchorage to Seward.

Drive

Driving to Seward is a popular option for those wanting flexibility and the chance to stop along the way.

Whether you rent a car or an RV, the drive along the Seward Highway offers stunning views of Turnagain Arm, towering mountains, and possible wildlife sightings. The trip takes about 2.5 hours without stops, but many choose to linger and explore the viewpoints, trails, and pullouts along the route.

Beautiful Turnagain Arm on the Seward Highway. Seen while driving from Anchorage to Seward.
Beautiful Turnagain Arm on the Seward Highway. Seen while driving from Anchorage to Seward.
Every summer day, the Alaska Railroad travels from Anchorage to Seward in the morning, and makes the return trip in the evening.
Every summer day, the Alaska Railroad travels from Anchorage to Seward in the morning, and makes the return trip in the evening.

Take the Train

Taking the train is a favorite for visitors who want to sit back and enjoy the ride. This is the Alaska Railroad’s famed Coastal Classic route, known for its spectacular scenery, much of which can only be seen by train.

During the summer months, two trains run daily: the southbound train departs Anchorage at 6:45 AM and arrives in Seward around 11:20 AM; the return trip leaves Seward at 6:00 PM and gets back to Anchorage by approximately 10:15 PM.

Shuttle buses and motorcoach services run from May to September, offering morning and afternoon departures from Anchorage to Seward (& vice versa).
Shuttle buses and motorcoach services run from May to September, offering morning and afternoon departures from Anchorage to Seward (& vice versa).

Catch a Bus

Shuttle buses and motorcoach tours are also available throughout the Summer season (mid-May to mid-September) and offer a comfortable and affordable way to get to Seward.

The Park Connection Motorcoach operates two daily departures from Anchorage: a morning bus leaving at 7:00 AM and an afternoon option at 3:00 PM. Red Eye Rides has 3 departures daily throughout the summer months at 8:30 AM, 3:00 PM and 11:30 PM.

Shuttle buses and motorcoach services run from May to September, offering morning and afternoon departures from Anchorage to Seward (& vice versa).
Shuttle buses and motorcoach services run from May to September, offering morning and afternoon departures from Anchorage to Seward (& vice versa).