Best Things to Do in Valdez, Alaska: From Glacier Adventures to Coastal Serenity

Tucked at the end of a deep fjord surrounded by snow-capped peaks, Valdez is one of Alaska’s most breathtaking coastal towns. Known as the “Switzerland of Alaska,” this harbor community is a gateway to shimmering glaciers, abundant wildlife, and pristine wilderness. If you’re seeking the best things to do in Valdez, you’ll find that every moment here connects you to the untamed beauty of America’s Last Frontier.

1. Sail Prince William Sound

Embarking on a glacier and wildlife cruise through Prince William Sound is one of the top things to do in Valdez. The calm waters are framed by mountains that rise straight from the sea, where tidewater glaciers calve into the ocean with thunderous splashes. Along the way, you might spot sea otters, harbor seals, puffins, and humpback whales breaching against a backdrop of icy blue walls. It’s an unforgettable introduction to the wild serenity that defines Alaska’s coast.

2. Visit the Worthington Glacier

Located just outside town, Worthington Glacier is one of the few roadside glaciers in the world accessible year-round. A short, scenic walk leads you to viewpoints where you can admire its crevassed surface and the brilliant hues of glacial ice up close. Guided tours add insight into its geological history and ever-changing landscape. For travelers in search of natural wonder, it’s among the best things to do in Valdez.

3. Explore Keystone Canyon

A short drive from Valdez brings you into the dramatic cliffs and cascading waterfalls of Keystone Canyon. Bridal Veil and Horsetail Falls are especially stunning, particularly in late spring when snowmelt swells their flow. The canyon’s lush greenery and sheer rock walls make it a favorite for photography and scenic drives. Adventurous visitors can also hike or kayak nearby for a closer connection with the area’s raw beauty.

4. Visit the Valdez Museum

For a glimpse into the region’s fascinating past, the Valdez Museum showcases stories of gold-rush pioneers, the 1964 earthquake, and the town’s relocation to higher ground. Exhibits also highlight native Alutiiq heritage and the evolution of Alaska’s maritime culture. It’s a meaningful stop for those who want to pair adventure with understanding — and one of the most enriching Valdez excursions in town.

5. Go Sea Kayaking Among Icebergs

Kayaking through the ice-studded waters of Valdez Glacier Lake is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Paddle quietly past floating icebergs, listen to the echo of calving ice, and feel the cool mist of the surrounding peaks. Guided tours ensure safe exploration while sharing stories about glacial formation and local wildlife. It’s one of the most exhilarating and fun things to do in Valdez for those who crave close-up encounters with Alaska’s wilderness.

6. Visit Solomon Gulch Hatchery and Watch Wildlife

At the Solomon Gulch Hatchery, tens of thousands of salmon return each summer to spawn — an incredible natural spectacle that attracts both eagles and sea lions. Elevated boardwalks offer the perfect vantage point to watch this dynamic scene unfold. Visiting during the salmon run is one of the top things to do in Valdez, giving travelers a front-row seat to the rhythm of Alaska’s coastal ecosystem.

7. Hike the Dock Point Trail

For an easy yet rewarding outdoor experience, the Dock Point Trail begins right in town and winds through forest and coastline to sweeping views of Port Valdez. The trail’s lookout points offer chances to spot sea otters and shorebirds while soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of Alaska’s harbor life. It’s a beautiful way to slow down and appreciate Valdez’s balance of wilderness and community.

8. Take a Scenic Drive Along Richardson Highway

Stretching between Valdez and Fairbanks, the Richardson Highway offers one of Alaska’s most stunning road trips. From glaciers to mountain passes, every mile reveals a postcard-worthy view. Highlights include Thompson Pass — famous for its towering peaks and deep snowpack — and panoramic vistas that showcase the grandeur of Alaska’s interior. Even a short segment of this route ranks among the best things to do in Valdez for those who love scenic exploration.

9. Join a Fishing or Wildlife Charter

Valdez is a paradise for anglers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. The surrounding waters are teeming with halibut, salmon, and rockfish, making fishing charters one of the most rewarding Valdez excursions available. Even if you’re not fishing, wildlife cruises provide opportunities to see sea lions lounging on buoys or orcas gliding through the waves — unforgettable encounters that capture the spirit of coastal Alaska.

What to Do in Valdez, Alaska

The top things to do in Valdez highlight the perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. Cruise through glacier-carved fjords, hike to thundering waterfalls, or wander quiet harbor trails framed by mountains and sea. Every experience reflects Alaska’s rugged beauty and the town’s deep connection to the natural world. Whether you’re exploring by kayak, boat, or foot, Valdez rewards every moment with a sense of awe.

Cruise to Valdez with Silversea

If you want to experience the top things to do in Valdez with ease, consider arriving by cruise. Sailing into Prince William Sound offers one of Alaska’s most dramatic arrivals — fjords lined with glaciers, peaks rising from the sea, and wildlife surrounding every turn. Curated shore experiences reveal the region’s most unforgettable highlights, from glacier kayaking and scenic drives to encounters with Alaskan wildlife. Discover a destination where nature reigns supreme — explore Silversea’s cruises to Valdez and experience the wild beauty of Alaska in extraordinary comfort.