Van Gilder Hotel, Seward
About the Hotel
Rooms and Suites
The Van Gilder Hotel, dating from 1916, provides accommodations with antique-style brass beds and lace curtains. All rooms include 3/4 baths with pedestal sinks. Options range from single queen rooms and pension rooms with shared hallway access to double queen suites with ocean views. Select rooms feature private sinks, while upgraded rooms offer private or en suite facilities. Suites include two bedrooms. All rooms provide heating, a flat-screen TV, and complimentary toiletries. Carpeted floors are standard in each room.
Onsite Amenities
Guests at the Van Gilder Hotel can use the art gallery, shopping mall, and library. Located in downtown Seward, the hotel offers convenient access to the Sealife Center, area restaurants, night clubs, the museum, and the theater. The hotel also showcases an Alaskana collection of books and historic photo histories.
Things to Do
Guests can enjoy activities such as hiking and fishing in and around Seward. The hotel is a mile from the border of Kenai Fjords National Park, one of Alaska's top attractions. Seward is home to Humpback Whales, Orcas, otters, harbor seals, sea lions, and puffins. Fishing charters leave the harbor frequently from May to September.
Location and Access
Located in Seward, the Van Gilder Hotel is a 4-minute walk from the Alaska SeaLife Center and a mile from Seward Boat Harbor. Seward is the southernmost point on the Alaska Railroad, linking it to Anchorage and the Kenai Peninsula. The hotel is a 2-hour and 30-minute drive from Anchorage and just over 3 hours from Homer. Kenai Fjords National Park's main entrance is less than a 5-minute drive.
Historical Context
The Van Gilder Hotel is Alaska's oldest hotel and a vital part of Seward's history, dating back to 1916. Originally serving as a major office building during the construction of the Alaska Railroad, the 3-story reinforced concrete building retains its structural and design integrity. The name 'Van Gilder' is embossed on the face between the third and second-floor windows.
Select your room type
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Getting around
A list of all available modes of transport
Facilities
General
- No smoking on site
- Free Wi-Fi
- Parking
- No pets allowed
- Security
- Luggage storage
- Smoke detectors
- Fire extinguishers
Sports & Fitness
- Hiking
- Fishing
Business
- Fax/Photocopying
Spa & Leisure
- Leisure/ TV room
Room features
- Heating
Bathroom
- Free toiletries
Media
- Flat-screen TV
Room decor
- Carpeted floor
