Things to do in Valdez Alaska
Valdez, Alaska. A place where sharp mountains drop straight into icy blue water. Glaciers catch the sunlight and throw it right back at you. It’s not just a picture—it’s real, and you can stand there, see it, feel it. You won’t find big, flashy crowds; Valdez skips the clichés. This is Alaska, stripped down and honest. For adventure seekers? Yes. For those who like a slower pace, simply watching clouds slide by? Also yes. Don’t forget a rain jacket—it rains here, often. Ready? Here are the top things to do in Valdez, Alaska.
Why Valdez? What's it Famous For?
Valdez sits at the intersection of glaciers, wild creatures, and an energy that pulses between calm and thrill.
I] Glaciers break off and crash straight into the ocean. It’s loud. It’s real.
II] Kayakers and hikers? This is your playground. The trails and waters here are some of Alaska’s finest.
III] A deep-rooted fishing tradition lives on. The biggest silver salmon run happens right here.
Valdez still feels wild, unfiltered. No artificial shine—only the kind of Alaska you come to find when you’re looking for authentic.
Top Things to Do in Valdez, Alaska
1] Columbia Glacier Tours – This isn’t just another cold spot for selfies. Step onto a glacier cruise in Valdez (look up operators on Tiqets), and you move through Prince William Sound. Icebergs drift by. Sea lions sleep on rocks, totally unbothered.
You’ll see
I] Sea otters, calmly floating on their backs
II] Whales jumping out of the water
III[ Puffins, seals, and if you’re lucky, a bear hurrying along the shore
When booking a glacier tour, look for deals on Tiqets or Expedia
2. Hike to Worthington Glacier – Seeking ice that’s easy to reach? Worthington Glacier delivers. Pull up by car. Walk a short path. No sweating up steep hills. It’s ideal for families or anyone who prefers a gentler approach.
Other epic Valdez hiking trails
| Trail Name | Difficulty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
|
Keystone Canyon Trail
|
Easy |
Waterfalls & canyon views
|
|
Mineral Creek Trail
|
Moderate |
River, wildflowers, serenity
|
|
Shoup Bay Trail
|
Challenging |
Glacier views, camping spots
|
For those who prefer a self-guided experience, you can explore glacier tours via platforms like Tiqets or check out specialized deals on Economybookings.com.
3. Valdez Rainy Day Things to Do
I] Valdez Museum & Historical Archive – Step through the doors and you’re standing in the heart of Gold Rush days, oil pipelines, and local memory. A whole world in one place.
II] Watch sea lions bicker at the harbor – They argue, they sprawl, they make a mess. Fun to watch, impossible to ignore.
III] Café hopping – Try a cup at Raven’s Roost Coffee. Or sit with a bite at The Fat Mermaid. Local flavor, front and center.
IV] Photo sessions by Bridal Veil Falls – Clouds and shadows paint every shot. Mood wins over sun.
4] Experiencing Marine Wildlife
I] Solomon Gulch Fish Hatchery – Here, the action is right in front of you. Sea lions, seals, salmon—close enough to feel real. The walk-through tour doesn’t just hand out facts. It lets you see the story unfold.
II] Whale Watching – Step onto a boat. Suddenly, the world opens—humpback whales, orcas, bald eagles overhead. All in plain sight. Finding a tour is easy. Look on Expedia or hotels. com, and it’s simple to package a boat ride with a good bed for the night.
If your heart is set on marine wildlife, don’t miss a guided cruise with Lu-Lu Belle Glacier Wildlife Cruises. It’s a focused way to deepen your experience.
Accommodation Options
1] The Bidarki Recreation Center – Offers camping and RV sites.
2] Best Western Valdez Harbor Inn – A reliable hotel with harbor views.
3] Robbie Graham Lodge – A charming bed and breakfast.
4] Airbnb – Plenty of options for vacation rentals.
Use booking.com or hotels.com for competitive deals, especially during peak summer. Set alerts through WayAway for cashback perks too.
Animals in and Around Valdez
Bald eagles (literally everywhere)
Harbor seals, sea lions
Orcas and humpbacks
Bears (black and brown—keep your distance!)
Moose munching near roadsides
Sample Itinerary for an Unforgettable Valdez Experience
Day 1: Arrival and Scenic Exploration
Morning: Arrive in Valdez, Alaska. Book your flight using Trip.com or kiwi.com for competitive rates, then secure transportation with services like Gettransfer.com or kiwitaxi.
Afternoon: Start with a leisurely stroll around Valdez Harbor, taking in the majestic views of Prince William Sound. For a light bite or a delicious coffee, try a local café nestled along the waterfront.
Evening: Explore the rustic charm of downtown Valdez, and check into one of the many budget-friendly options highlighted on booking.com or MakeMyTrip.com. A cozy hotel like the Best Western Valdez Harbor Inn gives you the perfect blend of comfort and local flavor.
DAY 2
Day 4: Local Culture and Departure
Morning: Take a relaxed morning stroll along North Harbor Drive to see sea lions basking on the docks—a photographer’s paradise.
Afternoon: Browse local shops and perhaps visit a local market. If you’re curious about Valdez accommodation options for future stays, revisit listings on Localrent.com or House on the Rock B&B.
Evening: Prepare for departure. Use reliable booking tools like Airalo for affordable SIM cards to stay connected, and check your return flight on Aviasales or Kayak.
FAQs:
What is the prettiest place in Alaska?
Alaska is full of remarkable places. Valdez is one of them. Think glaciers that rise like quiet giants. Waters that reflect every shade of blue. Mountains capped in snow, steady and calm. It’s a landscape that pulls your attention and keeps it there. Worthington Glacier and Columbia Glacier? Both are essential stops. They show you what Alaska’s raw beauty really means.
Is there a ferry from Anchorage to Valdez?
There’s no direct ferry connecting Anchorage to Valdez. Most people either fly or drive between these cities. There is a well-used ferry from Whittier—a spot not far from Anchorage. For ease, try booking a flight on kiwi. com. Or, arrange a shuttle through Gettransfer. com for a straightforward trip.
What is the Best Time to Visit Alaska (and Valdez)?
The best time to visit Valdez is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is mildest and the days are longest. However, this is also the busiest and most expensive time to visit. Shoulder seasons (May and September) offer a good balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Winter is beautiful, but many tours and activities are limited.
Where to see sea lions in Valdez?
For the best marine encounters, head to the Solomon Gulch Fish Hatchery. This hotspot is renowned for its resident sea lions, especially during the salmon run season when these playful creatures are most active.
Is Valdez, Alaska expensive?
Valdez has its moments of indulgence. Think specialty tours. Think restaurants with views. But options exist for almost every wallet. You’ll find places to stay and ways to explore that don’t break your budget. Tools like Economybookings. com help you compare prices on hotels and tours. Local advice stretches your dollar even further.
Conclusion
Valdez, Alaska is more than a point on a map. Step in, and you’re entering a place that defines untamed. Glaciers that groan. Whales that surprise. Trails that stretch for hours—and suddenly shift with the weather. Here, adventure isn’t a buzzword; it’s the ground under your boots and the air in your lungs.