One Day in Whittier: Itinerary For Cruise Passengers

Are you starting your cruise from Whittier? Or perhaps you’re wrapping up a fantastic week at sea and disembarking in this quaint port town? If you’re wondering what to do in Whittier, Alaska, in one day, you’re in the right place. We’ve got you covered with insider tips on facilities for cruise passengers, must-see attractions, and lunch options. This Whittier itinerary is specially designed with the needs of cruise passengers in mind, ensuring you have a seamless and enjoyable experience.

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One Day in Whittier: Our Experiences

Chris and I have spent a lot of time in Whittier. We’ve visited this unique town many times, in both good and bad weather. Last time, we enjoyed camping in Whittier, as the weather was perfect. It’s one of the most fascinating ports of call in Alaska.

We’ve explored all the top Whittier attractions, hiked nearly every trail, including the Portage Glacier Trail, and enjoyed local restaurants and shops. We’ve also taken a cruise on Prince William Sound, where we had a chance to admire calving glaciers.

Because of our experiences, we know how to make the most of your time in Whittier, even if you only have a day or half a day. Whether starting or ending your Alaskan cruise from Whittier, you’ll find all the essential tips you need.

If you have more time to explore this town, check out our detailed list of things to do in Whittier, including kayaking, cruising in Prince William Sound, jet-skiing, or fishing.

Whittier Itinerary: What Every Cruise Passenger Needs To Know

Whittier, Alaska, is a hidden gem and one of the smallest ports you’ll visit. With only 265 residents (as of 2022), this charming town welcomes just one cruise ship at a time. When you step off the ship, you’re instantly in the heart of Whittier.

The town’s compact size allows you to explore its unique charm in 2-3 hours. It’s much smaller than other Alaskan ports, like Juneau, Ketchikan, or Skagway.

Traveling from Anchorage to Whittier (or vice versa) takes about 1.5 to 2.5 hours, even though the distance is only 60 miles. The reason? You must pass through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, which operates on a set schedule. This can add significant time to your trip, so it’s crucial to plan accordingly.

We’ve written a detailed guide on how to get from Anchorage to Whittier, which will help you navigate this journey smoothly, especially if you want to travel by train or bus. Some cruise lines also offer transportation options on this route, so check with your cruise provider for convenient travel arrangements.

Pro Tip: Check out our detailed guide with more tips if you plan an Alaska cruise from Whittier.

One Day in Whittier: Morning Activities

Since the port is in the center of Whittier, you can quickly leave your luggage and start exploring. Here are our top suggestions for maximizing your time in Whittier. Make sure to adapt these suggestions to your cruise schedule, as this Whittier itinerary is intense.

Stroll and Enjoy Whittier’s Scenic Harbor

Whittier’s port may be small, but it’s nestled in a stunning mountain setting. A charming wooden walkway guides you along the harbor, offering picturesque views and a tranquil atmosphere. As you stroll, you’ll discover several quaint shops and cozy cafes.

Make sure to visit each one; you might find unique souvenirs and interesting items, all while supporting local businesses in Whittier. Check out Prince William Sound Salt, Log Cabin Gifts or Sound Ideas Whittier Fudge.

Take a Picture of Begich Towers Condominium

Whittier is famously known as the “town under one roof,” and most of its residents live in a single building, the Begich Towers. This unique structure has a fascinating history and several intriguing facts from Whittier’s past.

Begich Towers, originally constructed in 1957, was known as the Hodge Building. The U.S. Army built it as part of a secret military installation during the Cold War. The building was later named after Congressman Nick Begich, who disappeared in a plane crash in 1972.

The building is a self-contained community featuring residential apartments and essential services such as a post office, a grocery store, a school, a police station, and a medical clinic. It is 14 floors high.

Take a Walk along the Buckner Building

The Buckner Building is a notable landmark and a must-see for visitors interested in Cold War relics and unique architecture. Although you can’t enter the building, walking along its exterior offers a fascinating glimpse into the past.

Built in 1953, the Buckner Building was once a key military facility. It was named after General Simon Bolivar Buckner Jr. and constructed by the U.S. Army during the Cold War. It was designed to be a self-sustaining complex, capable of housing up to 1,000 troops.

At the time of its construction, the Buckner Building was one of the largest structures in Alaska. Moreover, it was a self-contained community with amenities like barracks, a hospital, a cafeteria, a theater, and recreational facilities. This made it an impressive example of mid-20th-century military architecture.

Whittier Itinerary: Time for Lunch

Several spots provide a unique taste of Whittier, whether you’re looking for a full meal or a quick snack.

• Swiftwater Seafood Cafe is our favorite place. It offers a casual dining experience with various fresh seafood options, including calamari, crab cakes, and delicious fish and chips.
• Wild Catch Cafe is perfect for a quick bite or drink.
• The Anchor Inn offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. It’s a cozy place to get a feel for the town. It’s common to see fishermen, locals, and visitors enjoying a meal here.
• Inn at Whittier features both a restaurant and a tavern. Enjoy casual, delicious food with water views from many tables.
• Varly’s Ice Cream Parlor for delicious and sweet ice creams.
• Oceanfront Cafe: We enjoy this place because of its friendly atmosphere and excellent service.

One Day in Whittier Itinerary: Afternoon Exploration

If you have the afternoon free during your cruise in Whittier, and the weather is favorable, consider exploring one of these two trails. These are our favorite hikes in Whittier, offering the best views and a memorable outdoor experience.

However, if hiking isn’t for you, we suggest you visit a local museum.

Hike the Portage Pass Trail

Whittier offers excellent hiking opportunities if the weather is nice, and our favorite is the Portage Pass Trail. This 4.2-mile round-trip hike provides breathtaking views and is a moderate challenge, perfect for those who enjoy hiking and have the proper footwear. We made this hike last time in mid-May, so there was still a lot of snow on the trail. Taking this hike is one of the best options for seeing the Portage Glacier.

Horsetail Falls Trail

This shorter trail is ideal if you’re looking for a less strenuous hike. The trail is about 2 miles round trip and features beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and waterfalls.

Visit Prince William Sound Museum

The Prince William Sound Museum is a must-see for history enthusiasts. Located in the heart of city, this small yet captivating museum offers a rich collection of exhibits detailing the Whittier’s military history, including its role during WWII and the Cold War. With artifacts, photographs, and detailed displays, the museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the past of this unique Alaskan town.

Your Resources

If you plan an Alaska cruise, you might be interested in our related itineraries for cruise passengers. Check out:

• One day in Juneau itinerary
• One day in Icy Strait Point itinerary
• One day in Sitka itinerary
• One day in Skagway itinerary
• One day in Ketchikan itinerary
• One day in Haines itinerary
• One day in Seward itinerary
• One day in Homer itinerary
• One day in Valdez itinerary

Conclusion

Whittier, with its unique charm and stunning natural beauty, offers a memorable experience for cruise passengers. From the fascinating history showcased at the Prince William Sound Museum to the breathtaking hikes like the Portage Pass Trail, Horsetail Falls Trail, or Emerald Cove Trail, there’s plenty to explore and enjoy.

We understand that as a ship passenger, your time on land is limited. Instead of offering extensive and demanding activities, we recommend practical options that fit your schedule. Check out our article on Whittier attractions and activities for more adventurous pursuits.

Whether you’re starting or ending your cruise in Whittier, take the time to immerse yourself in this small Alaskan town’s serene and captivating atmosphere. If you’re planning your trip, take a look at our Whittier travel guide for a full overview of the best places and experiences.

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