Visiting Valdez
Thinking about visiting Valdez, Alaska? This past labor day weekend, my family and I decided to make the trek down from the Anchorage area. Not even the frost heaves and rainy forecast could deter us. We have spent most of our vacations down in Seward or Homer, but wanted to try a change of scenery, and I think we can all agree that it was totally worth it! I will be covering all the top secret deets in this 3 part series, so strap in and let’s start the adventure.
About Valdez
Welcome to Valdez, Alaska—a coastal gem nestled at the head of Prince William Sound, where nature decided to flex. Surrounded by towering mountains this town is your passport to outdoor escapades like kayaking, fishing, and hiking. Once a bustling gold rush hotspot and later a shipping superstar, Valdez has a history as colorful as its stunning sunsets. Nowadays, it’s the place to be for a lively community, a waterfront that could charm the socks off a polar bear, and the annual Ice Climbing Festival—because who doesn’t want to scale a frozen waterfall? With its perfect blend of adventure, culture, and history, Valdez is the kind of place where every visit feels like a story waiting to be told!
How to get to Valdez
Valdez is accessible year round by road, sea or air.
By Road
Strap in for a 305-mile jaunt from Anchorage or a 364-mile trek from Fairbanks! Your drive through Thompson Pass and Keystone Canyon is like nature’s own scenic slideshow—minus the buffering. Don’t forget to check 511.alaska.gov for winter road conditions; we wouldn’t want you to end up on a scenic detour that involves a snowbank.
By Sea
Feeling nautical? The Alaska Marine Highway ferry system connects you to Valdez from other coastal hotspots, including Whittier. Just remember, the ferry only sails on specific dates, so plan ahead unless you’re aiming for an unexpected cruise!
Speaking of cruises, Valdez is also a popular pit stop for several major cruise lines, including Princess Cruises and Holland America. These floating hotels bring visitors to soak up the stunning views and explore the vibrant town—perfect for those who want a taste of adventure without the road trip. So whether you’re sailing in on a ferry or a cruise ship, Valdez is ready to welcome you with open arms and a breathtaking backdrop.
By Air
For those who prefer to skip the traffic (or the waves), Ravn Alaska and other airlines whisk you from Anchorage to Valdez Pioneer Field Airport in no time. Once you land, a quick ride with Valdez Taxi Service will have you in town faster than you can say “Wait, was that a bear?”
Where to stay in Valdez
Like many Alaskan tourist destinations, there are plenty of options for accommodations in Valdez.
Hotels
Best Western Valdez Harbor Inn: Located right by the waterfront, this hotel combines modern comfort with Alaskan hospitality. With spacious rooms, complimentary breakfast, and a fitness center, it’s ideal for both leisure and business travelers. Its convenient location makes it easy to explore the town and nearby outdoor activities.
Totem Hotel & Suites: Totem Hotel & Suites is the newest accommodations in Valdez. They offer modern guest rooms, business suites and cabins to make your stay incredibly relaxing while taking in all that Valdez has to offer.
The Glacier Hotel: This hotel boasts a prime location with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Offering cozy, rustic rooms and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s a great spot for relaxation after a day of exploring. The Glacier Hotel also has a lounge where guests can unwind with a drink..
Robe Lake Lodge
A bit more off the beaten path, this location provides a unique wilderness experience. With an actual lodge, several log cabins and stunning views of Robe Lake, it’s perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
This rustic experience was great for our family of three and even better, we could bring our dog along for the adventure as well! We stayed in Caribou Cabin. It was definitely rustic, but it fit all of our needs to our weekend getaway.
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View from Robe Lake Lodge near Valdez, AK
Phew, that was a lot of info, but don’t you worry this is just the beginning. If you are searching for wonderful places to camp in Valdez, head over to the next blog post for additional information, detailed recommendations, and helpful tips to enhance your camping experience.
