Whittier, Alaska, is the kind of place that makes you wonder how it exists at all.

Tucked between the surrounding mountains and the calm waters of Prince William Sound, this tiny town has a population measured in the hundreds, a tunnel that controls when you can come and go, and a building where much of the community lives under one roof.

But Whittier is much more than an interesting Alaska trivia question.

This unique coastal town is also one of the gateways to spectacular Prince William Sound, where tidewater glaciers tumble toward the sea and sea otters, harbor seals, sea lions and bald eagles are among the wildlife you may encounter.

Whittier is also an important deep-water port for Alaska cruises. If your cruise ship begins or ends its voyage here, it can be tempting to simply transfer between Whittier and Anchorage without giving the town much thought.

I wouldn’t be so quick to leave.

Some of the best things to do in Whittier, Alaska, are experiences worth adding to your Alaska itinerary—especially if you have an extra half day or full day before or after your cruise.

Here are 12 things to do in Whittier and nearby, plus how to get there, how much time you need, and whether I think Whittier is worth adding to your Alaska vacation.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you book or purchase through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend experiences and resources I believe may be helpful when planning your trip.

1. Take a Prince William Sound Glacier Cruise

If you only have time for one major experience in Whittier, make it a day cruise into Prince William Sound.

Whittier’s location gives you remarkable access to an area filled with tidewater glaciers, waterfalls, islands and marine wildlife. Depending on the cruise and conditions, you may travel surprisingly close to enormous walls of ice while watching for chunks of glacier to calve into the water.

Keep your eyes open for wildlife, too.

Sea otters are one of the stars of Prince William Sound, and you may also spot harbor seals, sea lions, bald eagles and other marine life. Whales are possible as well, although—as with any wildlife experience in Alaska—nothing is guaranteed.

The relatively protected waters of Prince William Sound can also make a glacier cruise here appealing to travelers who are concerned about spending a full day on rougher open water.

Several travel companies offer glacial cruise options from Whittier during the summer months, ranging from shorter excursions to full-day experiences.

For cruise guests with a full day available, this would be my first choice.

Costa Bella Tip: Don’t assume your Alaska cruise itself replaces a Prince William Sound day cruise. A smaller sightseeing vessel can travel into areas your cruise ship cannot, creating a completely different glacier and wildlife experience.

2. Hike the Portage Pass Trail

For outdoor enthusiasts, Portage Pass Trail offers one of the best opportunities to experience the dramatic landscape surrounding Whittier on foot.

The trail climbs above town and rewards hikers with panoramic views of mountains, water and Portage Glacier in the distance on clear days.

This isn’t simply a paved overlook, though. Alaska weather can change quickly, and trail conditions can be wet, muddy or slippery. Come prepared with appropriate shoes, layers and rain protection.

If you’re visiting Whittier as part of a cruise vacation, I’d also consider your timing carefully. A beautiful Alaska hike is not where I’d want to be nervously checking my watch because embarkation is approaching.

Give yourself plenty of time.

For travelers who enjoy the great outdoors and have several hours to explore, Portage Pass is one of the best ways to see why Whittier’s setting is so special.

3. Travel Through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel

Usually, driving through a tunnel is simply transportation.

In Whittier, it’s part of the experience.

The Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel—often simply called the Whittier Tunnel—is a single-lane tunnel shared by both vehicles and trains. At approximately 2.5 miles long, it is the longest combined vehicle-railroad tunnel in North America.

Traffic cannot simply flow in both directions whenever it wants. Vehicles traveling to and from Whittier take turns using the tunnel according to a scheduled pattern, with train traffic incorporated as well.

That means getting to Whittier by car requires a little more planning than your average Alaska road trip.

It also means there is something delightfully dramatic about emerging from the tunnel and suddenly finding Whittier tucked between the mountains and Prince William Sound on the other side.

Important: Check the current Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel schedule before your trip. Missing your planned tunnel opening can mean waiting for the next opportunity to pass through, which is particularly important if you’re trying to reach a cruise ship on embarkation day.

4. Visit the Prince William Sound Museum

Whittier’s spectacular location can make it easy to overlook its history, but the town has a fascinating connection to World War II and the U.S. Army.

The Prince William Sound Museum is a good place to learn how Whittier developed as a military port and transportation hub, as well as the role the area played during World War II and the Cold War.

It’s a particularly worthwhile stop if you’ve been wondering why such an isolated small town has unusually large buildings and significant transportation infrastructure.

The museum doesn’t require the time commitment of a major excursion, making it an easy addition if you have a couple of hours in Whittier before continuing your trip.

5. See Begich Towers

You’ve probably heard the claim that “everyone in Whittier lives in one building.”

That’s an exaggeration—but not by nearly as much as you might expect.

Begich Towers is a large residential building that houses a significant portion of Whittier’s small population. The building contains residences along with community services and amenities, helping residents manage everyday life in a town where harsh weather and isolation are simply part of living in Alaska.

It’s one of the features that has made Whittier famous far beyond the state of Alaska.

Remember, though, that Begich Towers is not a theme-park attraction. It is where people live and go about their daily lives. Be respectful of residents and any areas that are not open to visitors.

Even seeing the building and understanding its role in Whittier gives you a much better appreciation for how unusual this tiny town really is.

6. Learn About the Buckner Building

Another enormous structure tells a very different part of Whittier’s story.

The abandoned Buckner Building dates to Whittier’s military era and once housed a remarkable collection of facilities for military personnel stationed here.

Today, the deteriorating building is an imposing reminder of Whittier’s World War II and Cold War history.

It may be tempting to think of an abandoned building as something to explore, but don’t. The structure is unsafe and access restrictions should be respected.

Instead, appreciate it from a legal and safe vantage point and pair it with a visit to the Prince William Sound Museum, where the historical context makes the building much more meaningful.

7. Look for Wildlife Around Whittier

You don’t necessarily have to travel far from town to start watching for Alaska wildlife.

Sea otters are a personal favorite for many visitors to Prince William Sound—and for good reason. Watching one floating on its back in the water is about as close as Alaska gets to putting on a show specifically for you.

Bald eagles are another species to watch for around the harbor and shoreline.

Once you head farther into Prince William Sound, your chances expand to include harbor seals, sea lions and a variety of marine wildlife. Mountain goats can sometimes be spotted on steep mountainsides, and black bears live in this part of Alaska as well.

Never approach or feed wildlife, and don’t build an itinerary around seeing one particular animal. Wildlife operates on Alaska time, not vacation schedules.

Binoculars are one of the easiest things to pack that can dramatically improve your wildlife-viewing experience.

8. Walk Around Whittier Harbor and the Waterfront

Not everything in Alaska needs to be an excursion.

Whittier’s harbor is a great place to slow down for a while, watch boats come and go and take in the surrounding mountains.

On a clear day, the scenery alone makes a walk along the waterfront worthwhile.

This is also one of the easiest things to do if you’re working with limited time. You don’t need reservations, specialized equipment or several hours. Grab something to eat, wander around the harbor and enjoy being in one of Alaska’s most unusual communities.

For photographers, changing clouds and light over Prince William Sound can completely transform the landscape in a matter of minutes.

9. Explore Prince William Sound on a Smaller Boat

A large glacier day cruise isn’t the only way to experience the waters around Whittier.

Smaller operators and private charters can offer a more intimate way to explore Prince William Sound, particularly for travelers interested in fishing, wildlife, photography or reaching areas away from the larger tour boats.

Lazy Otter Charters is one of the names you may encounter when researching Whittier tours.

A smaller charter can cost more than joining a larger day cruise, but the experience can also be much more personalized. For a couple celebrating a honeymoon or anniversary—or simply travelers who prefer small-group experiences—the extra cost may be worthwhile.

Compare itineraries carefully rather than choosing solely by price. The best tour depends on whether your priority is glaciers, marine wildlife, fishing, photography or simply spending a beautiful day on the water.

10. Hike to Horsetail Falls

If you want another opportunity to stretch your legs, Horsetail Falls Trail provides a shorter outdoor experience around Whittier.

The trail leads toward a cascading waterfall and gives you another perspective on the lush, mountainous landscape surrounding town.

Whittier receives plenty of precipitation, which helps explain why everything can look impossibly green—and why waterproof shoes and a rain jacket deserve a permanent place on your Alaska packing list.

As with Portage Pass Trail, check current trail conditions before setting out and leave yourself a generous buffer if you’re visiting on the same day your cruise departs.

11. Stop at Portage Lake and the Begich, Boggs Visitor Center

If you’re driving between Anchorage and Whittier, don’t think of the trip as nothing more than transportation.

The route itself is part of the experience.

Near Whittier, Portage Valley makes an excellent stop, with Portage Lake surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery.

The Begich, Boggs Visitor Center is also located here and offers exhibits and information about the landscape, glaciers, wildlife and natural history of the Chugach National Forest.

This isn’t technically in Whittier, but its location makes it an easy addition to a Whittier day trip or road trip between Anchorage and your cruise port.

It also gives you another reason not to rush the journey.

12. Take a Portage Glacier Cruise

Travelers who want another glacier experience can also consider a Portage Glacier cruise on Portage Lake.

This is different from spending several hours exploring Prince William Sound. A Portage Glacier cruise is generally a more compact experience, which may work better if your schedule doesn’t allow for a longer day cruise from Whittier.

If you have an entire day and want the biggest overall experience, I’d personally prioritize Prince William Sound.

If you have limited time or you’re already stopping in Portage Valley while traveling between Anchorage and Whittier, the Portage Glacier experience may fit your itinerary better.

There isn’t one “best” option for every Alaska traveler. The best choice is the one that fits the amount of time you actually have.

Is Whittier Worth Visiting Before or After an Alaska Cruise?

Yes—but how much time you should spend here depends on what you want to do.

I wouldn’t necessarily add several nights in Whittier to a first Alaska vacation. There are simply too many other places competing for your time.

But I also wouldn’t automatically step off a cruise ship and race straight to Anchorage.

If your Alaska cruise begins or ends in Whittier, you already have access to one of the most beautiful parts of the state. Giving yourself enough time to experience it can turn a transportation day into one of the highlights of your trip.

If You Have 2–3 Hours

Keep things simple.

Walk around the harbor, learn about Begich Towers, visit the Prince William Sound Museum and enjoy the scenery around town.

If You Have Half a Day

Add a hike, explore Portage Valley or consider a shorter tour.

This is also enough time to enjoy Whittier without feeling like you’re simply killing time before a transfer.

If You Have a Full Day

Take a Prince William Sound glacier and wildlife cruise.

For most first-time visitors, this is where I’d put the extra time.

If you’re already traveling all the way to Whittier, getting out onto Prince William Sound is the experience that makes staying longer worthwhile.

How to Get to Whittier, Alaska

Whittier is roughly 60 miles southeast of Anchorage, but this is Alaska—distance doesn’t tell the whole story.

There are several transportation options, and the best way to reach Whittier depends on your larger itinerary.

Drive From Anchorage

Driving gives you the most freedom to stop along Turnagain Arm and in Portage Valley.

The Scenic Seward Highway between Anchorage and the Portage area is spectacular, with mountains rising alongside the water and numerous places where you’ll be tempted to pull over for another photograph.

You’ll eventually reach the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, the only road access into Whittier.

If you’re using a rental car, confirm that your rental agreement permits your planned route and understand where you’ll return the vehicle. Car rentals can become more complicated when you’re beginning or ending a one-way Alaska cruise.

Take the Alaska Railroad

The Alaska Railroad offers one of the most scenic and relaxing ways to travel between Anchorage and Whittier.

For cruise guests who don’t want to rent a car, this can turn what would otherwise be a transfer day into another Alaska experience.

Rail schedules vary seasonally, so coordinate your train carefully with your cruise embarkation or post-cruise plans.

Use a Cruise Transfer or Private Transportation

Cruise lines and independent companies also offer transportation between Anchorage and Whittier.

This may be the easiest option if your priority is simply getting between your hotel, airport and cruise ship without worrying about tunnel schedules, rental cars or luggage.

Private transportation generally costs more but can offer additional flexibility, especially for families or small groups.

Best Time to Visit Whittier

For most travelers, the best time to visit Whittier is during Alaska’s main visitor season from late spring through early September.

June and July offer long daylight hours, while late July and August can be excellent for wildlife viewing and enjoying the summer landscape.

By late August and early September, daylight begins shortening more noticeably and the weather can feel increasingly autumnal.

Of course, Whittier is famous for wet weather.

Don’t wait for a perfect forecast to enjoy it. Bring layers, waterproof outerwear and shoes that can handle wet conditions.

A moody, mist-covered Whittier is still very much Whittier.

Where to Stay in Whittier

Whittier has limited options compared with Anchorage or Seward, so book early if you decide to spend the night during the busy summer months.

The Anchor Inn is one of the lodging options travelers may encounter when researching an overnight stay in town, along with smaller accommodations and vacation rentals.

For many cruise guests, however, an overnight stay may not be necessary.

If your schedule allows you to enjoy Whittier during the day and continue to Anchorage afterward—or arrive from Anchorage early enough to explore before embarking—that may be the better use of your Alaska vacation time.

Planning an Alaska cruise? If you’re trying to decide how Whittier fits into your itinerary—or how to coordinate your cruise, Anchorage stay, Alaska Railroad transportation and time in Prince William Sound—I’d be happy to help. Start planning your Alaska vacation with Costa Bella Travel.

Frequently Asked Questions About Whittier, Alaska

Final Thoughts: Don’t Just Pass Through Whittier

Whittier may be tiny, but that’s part of what makes it memorable.

There aren’t endless attractions, luxury resorts or blocks of shops competing for your attention. Instead, you have mountains rising almost directly from the water, fascinating military history, a one-of-a-kind tunnel and extraordinary access to Prince William Sound.

And that’s exactly why I wouldn’t treat Whittier as nothing more than the place where your cruise ship happens to dock.

If you have a few hours, explore the town.

If you have half a day, get outside.

And if you can give Whittier one full day, head into Prince William Sound and let the glaciers and wildlife show you why this tiny Alaska port deserves a place on your itinerary.

Sometimes the best part of an Alaska trip is the place you almost passed right through.

Keep Exploring Alaska

Planning more of your Alaska adventure? These guides can help you put the rest of your trip together:

• 14-Day Alaska Itinerary: A DIY Cruisetour Add-On
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• Princess Alaska Cruisetour Review & Guide
  See what it’s really like to combine an Alaska cruise with Princess lodges, rail travel and time in the interior.
• 25 Best Things to Do Between Anchorage and Denali
  Compare your options for traveling from Anchorage to Denali and decide which works best for your Alaska itinerary.
• Things to Do in Anchorage in April 
  Make the most of your time in Anchorage before or after your Alaska cruise.
• Alaska Railroad Guide
  Learn what to expect from Alaska Railroad travel and how to work a scenic train journey into your trip.

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