Whittier is reached through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, the longest combined rail-and-highway tunnel in North America. As you step off your cruise ship, you’ll find easy access to Alaska’s stunning natural beauty—glaciers, fjords, and abundant wildlife—plus a handful of local stops that fit nicely into a port day.
Key takeaways
- Book a glacier cruise in Prince William Sound for the biggest “wow” factor.
- See Alaska wildlife up close at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (best with a shuttle or tour).
- Stay close to the harbor for museums, shops, easy walks, and photo spots.
- Plan around weather and the tunnel schedule if you’re traveling in or out by road.
Travel Through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel
One of the most distinctive experiences tied to Whittier is the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel (often called the Whittier Tunnel). The tunnel is about 2.5 miles long and was completed in the early 1940s as a rail link supporting the military port that operated here during World War II.
Today, the tunnel is shared by trains and vehicles and uses a timed, one-way traffic system. If your shore excursion includes travel to or from Whittier by road, build in extra buffer time and check the official schedule before you go: Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel schedule and visitor info (Alaska DOT&PF).
Visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
Visiting the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is a standout option for nature lovers. This nonprofit sanctuary cares for injured and orphaned animals and provides viewing areas where you can see species such as moose, bears, musk ox, wood bison, wolves, and bald eagles up close.
Because it’s located along the Seward Highway near Portage, most visitors go by shuttle, rental car, or an organized tour. For current seasonal hours and ticket details, check the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center’s official site.
Take a Scenic Cruise in Prince William Sound
Stunning glacial landscapes
A day cruise in Prince William Sound is one of the most popular ways to experience Whittier’s surrounding wilderness. Expect towering mountains, hanging glaciers, icebergs, and (on some routes) tidewater glaciers where you may hear ice crack and calve into the sea.
Wildlife viewing opportunities
Wildlife sightings vary by route and season, but cruises commonly look for:
- Sea otters and harbor seals
- Bald eagles and other seabirds
- Whales (often reported in summer)
Onboard narration and local history
Many operators include narration that covers glaciers, wildlife, and Whittier’s history as a military and railroad town. Some cruises also feature naturalists or Forest Service-style interpretation, depending on the operator and route.
Hike Near the Begich, Boggs Visitor Center
The Begich, Boggs Visitor Center in Portage Valley is a convenient stop for trails, exhibits, and views around Portage Lake. It’s typically open seasonally and closed during the winter, so check current hours if it’s on your plan.
Nearby walks and hikes range from short, accessible paths to longer outings. Popular options in the area include the Trail of Blue Ice system and the Byron Glacier Trail. Keep in mind that Portage Glacier itself is best viewed from the lake (by boat) or from designated viewpoints, since it has retreated over time.
Discover the Prince William Sound Museum
If you want a quick dose of local history, the Prince William Sound Museum highlights Whittier’s evolution from a strategic military port to a small coastal community and gateway to Prince William Sound. Exhibits often include military and railroad artifacts, local stories, and rotating displays.
- Military & Railroad History: World War II, the railroad, and the tunnel
- Community Life: photos and stories from Whittier’s harbor culture
- Natural History: context on Prince William Sound ecosystems
Enjoy Kayaking in the Fjords
Kayaking offers an intimate way to explore Whittier’s shoreline and sheltered coves. Guided trips are especially helpful for first-timers and can take you toward calmer bays or out to areas with glacier views, depending on conditions.
Scenic wildlife encounters
- Sea otters rafting in kelp
- Harbor seals on rocks or ice
- Bald eagles along the cliffs
Guided kayaking tours
Local guides provide gear, safety briefings, and route choices based on tides and weather—important in a place where conditions can change quickly.
Experience a “26 Glacier”–Style Day Cruise
Several popular day cruises from Whittier focus on tidewater glaciers deeper in Prince William Sound (often marketed as “26 Glacier” cruises). These trips are known for big scenery and lots of photo opportunities, with onboard narration and wildlife watching along the way.
Go Fishing in the Surrounding Waters
Whittier is a well-known jumping-off point for Prince William Sound fishing. Many visitors book a charter for salmon, halibut, or rockfish, while others try shore fishing where regulations allow. Licenses and rules can change by season, so review current Alaska regulations before you go.
Gear rental options
If you didn’t pack tackle, local outfitters and charter operators can often supply rods, reels, and bait as part of a trip.
Visit the Local Shops and Art Galleries
For a slower-paced hour, browse Whittier’s small collection of gift shops and galleries. You’ll often find locally made art, jewelry, prints, and practical Alaska souvenirs.
Take a Guided Wildlife Tour
If you’d rather stay on land than on a boat, guided tours and excursions can pair wildlife stops with scenic viewpoints. Availability varies by season and by which cruise ships are in port, so pre-booking is smart in peak summer weeks.
Explore Portage Glacier
Portage Valley is a common add-on for visitors with transportation. You can explore short trails, visit the Begich, Boggs Visitor Center when it’s open, or take a boat cruise on Portage Lake to see the glacier face.
Scenic boat tours
Boat trips on Portage Lake provide a closer look at the glacier and floating ice—an easy option if you want glacier viewing without an all-day Sound cruise.
Hiking trails overview
Nearby trails range from easy walks to longer hikes. Always check current conditions, carry rain gear, and practice bear-aware hiking.
Enjoy Fresh Seafood at Local Eateries
Whittier’s harbor setting makes it a fun place to enjoy a meal with a view. Menus vary seasonally, but you’ll often see Alaska classics like salmon, halibut, and chowder.
Go Biking on Scenic Paths
If you have time (and the weather cooperates), biking is a pleasant way to cover more ground than walking. Stick to marked routes and be ready for wet, slick surfaces—rain is common in this region.
Take Photos at Waterfalls and Viewpoints
Whittier and the surrounding valleys have countless waterfall and mountain viewpoints. Keep your camera handy—changing light and low clouds can create dramatic scenes.
Relax by the Shore
Wrap up your visit with an easy shoreline stroll near town. The coast here is often rocky or gravelly rather than sandy, but the views across Passage Canal are classic Alaska.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to visit Whittier?
Most tours and cruises run in the late spring through early fall. Peak activity is usually in summer, when cruise schedules and day cruises are most frequent.
Are there public restrooms available in Whittier?
Yes—restrooms are commonly available around the harbor and at some attractions. Seasonal hours can apply, especially outside summer.
Is parking available for cruise passengers in Whittier?
Paid parking is available near the harbor in peak season, but capacity and policies vary. If you’re driving in, check current instructions with your cruise line, the port, or local parking operators.
What should I wear when exploring Whittier?
Dress in layers and bring a waterproof outer layer. Sturdy shoes are helpful for wet boardwalks, gravel, and trails.
Are guided tours available in multiple languages?
Some tour operators may offer guides in multiple languages or multilingual materials, but it’s not guaranteed. Check with your tour provider when you book.
Conclusion
Whittier packs a lot into a small footprint. Whether you spend your port day on a glacier cruise, meeting rescued wildlife, or simply wandering the harbor with a warm meal, you’ll leave with big Alaska memories.
