The 23 Best Things to do in Valdez: Top Attractions and Activities

Planning a trip to Valdez, Alaska, and wondering what to do? You’re in for an adventure! Valdez is a hub for outdoor lovers and history buffs, offering a mix of breathtaking scenery and cultural experiences. Whether you’re craving glacier tours, hiking, or simply exploring the town, there are plenty of things to do in Valdez to make your trip unforgettable. In this guide, we’ll cover all the best attractions and activities—from stunning glacier cruises and fishing trips to fascinating museums and local hikes. We also share with you budget-friendly and free things to do in Valdez. All are based on our first-hand experiences.

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Is Valdez, Alaska, Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! Valdez, Alaska, is worth visiting for its incredible natural beauty and outdoor adventures. From jaw-dropping glacier cruises in Prince William Sound to thrilling hikes like Keystone Canyon, it’s a paradise for nature lovers.

You can kayak alongside icebergs, fish for salmon, or even spot bears and sea lions at the Solomon Gulch Hatchery. With its mix of stunning landscapes and rich history, Valdez is a must for anyone exploring Alaska!

Things to do in Valdez: Our Experiences

Chris and I have explored Valdez multiple times and during different months—September, May, and June. Our first visit was during a 9-month road trip in our camper truck, where we stayed for several days and instantly fell in love with the town.

We kayaked among glaciers, hiked beautiful trails, and enjoyed the delicious local food. Each visit has been unique, and we’ve returned several times since.

Most recently, we traveled in a Jeep Wrangler with a rooftop tent, taking in Valdez’s stunning scenery once again. One highlight was the Columbia Glacier cruise, which was breathtaking. Every activity and attraction on this list is based on our personal experiences, making this guide a reflection of the best that Valdez has to offer!

We know that exploring Alaska can be expensive, so we’ve put together a list of free things to do in Valdez, along with budget-friendly activities for travelers looking to save. From hiking scenic trails to visiting historical sites, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Valdez without breaking the bank.

Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, our guide has affordable options for the budget-conscious traveler!

Our Tip: Plan an RV road trip? Check out our 14-day Alaska RV itinerary, which includes exploring Valdez!

Best Things To Do in Valdez: Water Adventures

Valdez is a picturesque port town located on Prince William Sound, surrounded by towering mountains and glaciers. Thanks to its location, Valdez offers some of the best water-based activities in Alaska.

You can embark on glacier cruises, kayak among icebergs, or go fishing for salmon and halibut in these pristine waters.

Let’s dive into these exciting water adventures that showcase the best of Valdez’s incredible natural beauty!

1. Take a Glacier & Wildlife Cruise and Explore Prince William Sound

Prince William Sound is one of the most beautiful and serene areas in Alaska, and Valdez is the perfect starting point to explore it. Surrounded by towering mountains and glaciers, the sound offers crystal-clear waters ideal for kayaking, wildlife viewing, and scenic boat tours. The best option for exploring this area is to take the Glacier and Wildlife Cruise.

Whether you’re gliding through the calm waters by kayak or taking a guided boat tour, you’ll be immersed in stunning views of glaciers, waterfalls, and rich marine life. Keep your eyes peeled for sea otters, seals, puffins, and whales. If you have time, consider this full-day cruise to Meares Glacier.

Another stunning port from which you can explore the Prince William Sound area is Whittier, but if you’re short on time, Valdez is an excellent alternative to experience this magical place.

2. Take a Columbia Glacier Cruise

A Columbia Glacier Cruise is a must-do for anyone visiting Valdez. This six-hour cruise adventure takes you through the pristine waters of Prince William Sound to one of Alaska’s largest and most impressive tidewater glaciers.

Columbia Glacier is truly special—it spans roughly 32 miles long and covers an area of over 400 square miles, making it one of the largest glaciers in Southcentral Alaska. It’s been rapidly retreating for the last few decades, creating massive icebergs that float through the water, offering a dramatic and ever-changing landscape.

During this cruise, you’ll see these towering icebergs up close and may spot wildlife like whales, seals, and sea otters. Be sure to check out our photos and detailed review of the 6-hour Columbia Glacier cruise—it was an unforgettable adventure!

3. Go Sea Kayaking

For a more intimate experience with Valdez’s stunning scenery, hop into a kayak and paddle through Prince William Sound or Valdez Glacier Lake. You’ll glide past towering icebergs, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic cliffs, with chances to spot wildlife like seals and sea otters up close.

Kayaking in Valdez offers a peaceful yet adventurous way to explore this natural beauty at your own pace, and it’s one of our favorite activities in Valdez. We took a tour with Anadyr Adventures and highly recommend them. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, it’s an unforgettable way to immerse yourself in Alaska’s wilderness. For us, it was one of the best kayaking tours in Alaska.

4. Explore Valdez Glacier Lake

Valdez Glacier Lake is a hidden gem just outside of town, offering a stunning view of floating icebergs that have calved off from the glacier. You can walk along the shore and admire the ice, or for a more adventurous option, paddle out on a guided kayak tour to get up close to the icebergs. It’s a peaceful, scenic spot that gives you a glimpse of Alaska’s raw beauty, and it’s one of our favorite places to relax and explore when visiting Valdez. Don’t forget your camera—the views are spectacular!

5. Book a Fishing Trip

Valdez is a paradise for anglers, offering world-class fishing opportunities. Whether you’re after halibut, salmon, or rockfish, there’s something for everyone. Book a guided fishing trip for a full day on the water, or cast a line right from the shore. If you time it right, you can also join the famous Valdez Fish Derbies for a shot at catching some of Alaska’s biggest fish! Fishing in Valdez isn’t just about the catch; it’s about soaking in the incredible scenery and enjoying the peaceful waters.

We had an amazing halibut fishing trip from Homer, known as the “Halibut Capital of the World,” but Valdez is a fantastic second choice for halibut tours.

Top Valdez Activities: Enjoy Wildlife Viewing

6. Admire Marine Wildlife

Valdez might not be as well-known for whale watching as places like Seward, Kenai Fjords, or Juneau, but you can still spot whales here. During the wildlife and glacier cruises through Prince William Sound, there’s always a chance to see humpback whales or orcas.

If whale watching is your priority, you can even join dedicated tours focused on searching for these majestic creatures. And it’s not just whales—Valdez waters are teeming with marine wildlife. You’ll likely see playful sea otters, seals lounging on icebergs, and even sea lions basking in the sun. The sound is full of life, making any cruise an exciting experience!

7. Watch Bears at Solomon Gulch Hatchery

If you want to see Alaskan wildlife up close, Solomon Gulch Hatchery is the place to be. During the salmon run in the summer, bears flock to the area to feast on spawning salmon, making it one of the best spots in Valdez for bear viewing. You can watch black and brown bears fish for salmon right from the shore.

Along with bears, you’ll likely spot sea lions and eagles taking advantage of the salmon-packed waters. It’s a fantastic, natural wildlife experience, and timing your visit with high tide offers the best chances to see the action up close! Free self-guided tours are available along the hatchery walkway from May through October.

Best Outdoor Activities in Valdez

Valdez is an outdoor lover’s dream, offering endless activities surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Here is a selection of our favorites.

8. Explore Waterfalls in Keystone Canyon

Keystone Canyon, located just 20 miles from Valdez along the Richardson Highway, is home to two of the most beautiful waterfalls in Alaska—Bridal Veil Falls and Horsetail Falls. Bridal Veil Falls is a towering 600 feet high, cascading down the canyon wall in a stunning display of nature’s power. Horsetail Falls, slightly smaller but equally impressive, drops about 300 feet.

These waterfalls are easily accessible and can be explored on your way into Valdez or on your way back. Whether you’re taking a quick stop for photos or planning to hike nearby, Keystone Canyon’s waterfalls are a must-see, offering breathtaking scenery year-round. Moreover, it’s a free activity for budget-conscious travelers.

9. Enjoy Vistas from Dock Point Trail

The Dock Point Trail is a short but rewarding loop, just under 0.8 miles in length, making it perfect for a quick and easy hike. Located near the Valdez harbor, this well-maintained trail offers scenic views of the waterfront, Duck Flats wetlands, and the surrounding mountains.

Along the way, you’ll find several lookout platforms that provide panoramic vistas of the harbor and the rich wildlife in the area. This trail is ideal for those looking to stretch their legs and take in the beauty of Valdez without the challenge of a longer hike. It’s an easy, accessible trail that’s perfect for all skill levels. And it’s for free! It’s one of the easiest and best hiking trails in Valdez.

10. Take an ATV/UTV Tour in Valdez and Enjoy Off-Road

For thrill-seekers, an ATV/UTV tour in Valdez is the perfect way to explore the rugged backcountry. These off-road adventures take you deep into the stunning Alaskan wilderness, offering incredible views of mountains, glaciers, and untouched terrain. Ride through valleys, cross streams, and take in the breathtaking scenery that’s off the beaten path.

Whether you’re an experienced rider or a beginner, these guided tours are a fun and adventurous way to experience the wild beauty of Valdez. It’s an exhilarating way to get off-road and discover hidden gems!

11. Hike to Worthington Glacier

It’s another free activity in Valdez. Just a 30-minute drive from Valdez, Worthington Glacier is one of the most accessible glaciers in Alaska. Located at Milepost 28.7 on the Richardson Highway, the glacier offers an easy, family-friendly hike. The main trail is a short, only 1 mile long go and back. It’s a paved path that leads to a viewing platform where you can get an up-close look at this impressive glacier.

For more adventurous hikers, unpaved trails allow you to explore even closer to the glacier’s edge. At the recreation site, you’ll find picnic tables and restrooms, making it a great spot to spend a few hours.

12. Drive and Hike Over Thompson Pass

Just outside of Valdez, Thompson Pass is a breathtaking mountain pass along the Richardson Highway, standing at 2,678 feet. Known for its stunning vistas and heavy snowfall in winter, it’s a must-visit for scenic drives and hikes in the summer months. As you drive through, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of towering peaks and lush valleys. There are several pullouts where you can stop for photos or start a hike. However this area is often covered by fog and snow.

Popular trails include Worthington Glacier Ridge Trail, offering beautiful views of the glacier, and Ptarmigan Creek Trail, which leads through alpine meadows. Whether you’re simply driving or looking for a hike, Thompson Pass is a highlight of any Valdez adventure.

Historically, Thompson Pass played a key role during the Klondike Gold Rush in the late 1800s, as gold seekers passed through on their way to the Klondike gold fields.

The Trans-Alaska Pipeline, stretching over 800 miles from Prudhoe Bay via the Dalton Highway, also passes through Thompson Pass as it makes its way to the Port of Valdez Terminal. This vital pipeline has been transporting oil across Alaska since the 1970s, making Thompson Pass not only historically significant but essential to modern Alaska.

13. Take a Helicopter Tour in Valdez

Experience Valdez from the sky with an exhilarating helicopter tour! Operators like Vertical Solutions offers a range of flightseeing options to fit your adventure expectations. You can soar over glaciers, mountains, and the breathtaking landscapes of Prince William Sound.

This activity is at the top of our bucket list, especially since we’ve already enjoyed helicopter flights in Denali and flightseeing tours by plane in Denali. We know firsthand how incredible these aerial adventures are, and we highly recommend adding a helicopter tour in Valdez to your itinerary for an unforgettable experience!

Things to Do in Valdez: City Attractions

Valdez has more to offer than just outdoor adventures—it’s also rich in history and culture. The town’s city attractions give you a deeper look into its past and local charm. Whether you’re exploring the Valdez Museum or taking a stroll around the Small Boat Harbor, these spots offer a more relaxed way to experience Valdez. Here are the best city attractions to explore during your visit! Moreover, most of those attractions are free or budget-friendly.

14. Explore Small Boat Harbor

The Small Boat Harbor in Valdez is the heart of the town’s waterfront. Take a relaxing stroll along the docks and enjoy the scenic views of fishing boats, sailboats, and towering mountains in the background. It’s a great place to watch the bustling marine activity, spot sea otters playing in the water, and enjoy a peaceful moment by the harbor. If you have time, book a wildlife or glacier cruise from here, as many tours depart right from the harbor. It’s the perfect spot to soak in the local charm of Valdez.

15. Learn about the Trans-Alaska Pipeline

The Trans-Alaska Pipeline is an engineering marvel, stretching over 800 miles from Prudhoe Bay to Valdez. It transports oil across Alaska and passes through stunning landscapes, including Thompson Pass. Built in the 1970s, the pipeline is crucial for Alaska’s economy and energy supply. You can learn more about its history and importance at exhibits or on local tours in Valdez.

16. Visit Old Valdez

Old Valdez, the original townsite, was devastated by the 1964 Good Friday Earthquake, the most powerful earthquake in North American history. Today, you can visit the site, located about 4 miles from present-day Valdez, and learn about the town’s relocation. Interpretive signs tell the story of the earthquake, the destruction it caused, and how the town was rebuilt on higher ground. Walking through Old Valdez offers a unique glimpse into the town’s history and resilience.

17. Take a Selfie with the Whispering Giant

The Whispering Giant is a striking wooden sculpture located in Valdez, created by artist Peter Wolf Toth. This towering figure is part of a nationwide series dedicated to honoring Native American heritage. Standing tall near the Valdez Museum, the sculpture makes for a perfect photo op. Don’t forget to stop by, admire its craftsmanship, and snap a selfie with this iconic Alaskan landmark during your visit!

But this is not the only interesting sculpture in Valdez. As you walk around the harbor, you will discover several other extremely intriguing and beautiful wooden sculptures.

18. Visit the Valdez Museum & Historical Archive

The Valdez Museum & Historical Archive is the perfect place to dive into the town’s fascinating past. The museum showcases the history of Valdez, including the 1964 earthquake, the Exxon Valdez oil spill, and the rich cultural heritage of the area. You’ll find exhibits on the early days of the gold rush, Native Alaskan culture, and the development of Valdez as a port town. It’s a must-see for history buffs and anyone wanting to understand Valdez’s unique story.

19. Visit the Maxine & Jesse Whitney Museum

The Maxine & Jesse Whitney Museum is a treasure trove of Native Alaskan artifacts and cultural history. Located in Valdez, this museum houses one of the largest collections of Native Alaskan art in the world. You’ll find displays of beautifully crafted ivory carvings, traditional clothing, masks, and more, giving you a deeper insight into Alaska’s rich indigenous culture.

The museum also features exhibits on Alaskan wildlife, including mounted specimens of polar bears and other animals. It’s a fascinating stop for anyone interested in Alaska’s native heritage and natural history.

20. Take a Picture of the Valdez Arch

The Valdez Arch is a welcoming landmark that greets visitors as they enter the town, with its bold letters and scenic mountain backdrop. Located at the entrance to Valdez, this iconic arch makes for a great photo opportunity, symbolizing the start of your Valdez adventure. Be sure to stop and snap a picture as you arrive or leave the town, capturing the beauty of the surrounding landscape and the welcoming charm of Valdez.

21. Try Alaskan Beer at Valdez Brewing

After a day of adventure, there’s no better way to unwind than by trying local Alaskan beer at Valdez Brewing Company. Located right in town, this cozy brewery offers a great selection of craft beers brewed on-site. From pale ales to porters, there’s something for every beer lover. Grab a pint, relax, and enjoy the friendly atmosphere while sipping on a true taste of Alaska. It’s the perfect spot to end your day in Valdez!

22. Enjoy Fresh Food in Local Restaurants and Bars

Valdez has a great selection of local restaurants and bars where you can enjoy fresh, Alaskan cuisine. Whether you’re craving seafood straight from Prince William Sound or a hearty meal after a day of exploring, there’s something for every taste.

Popular spots like The Fat Mermaid, The Roadside Potato, The Wheelhouse, TraDas Breakfast Diner, and Old Town Burgers offer delicious dishes featuring fresh-caught halibut, salmon, and crab. Pair your meal with a locally brewed beer or a craft cocktail from one of the cozy bars around town. Dining in Valdez is the perfect way to savor the flavors of Alaska!

23. Camp in Valdez

Camping in Valdez is an unforgettable experience, offering stunning views and plenty of outdoor adventure. Whether you prefer staying at an RV park or pitching a tent, there are great options around town.

Popular campgrounds like Valdez Glacier Campground or Bear Paw RV Park provide breathtaking mountain views and easy access to hiking trails, waterfalls, and local attractions. You can enjoy the peaceful surroundings while being just minutes from town, making it easy to explore Valdez’s natural beauty by day and relax under the stars by night.

Valdez, Alaska, Activities: Final Thoughts

Valdez, Alaska, is a destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures like glacier cruises and hiking, or you want to explore the town’s rich history and local culture, Valdez has it all. From kayaking among icebergs to enjoying fresh Alaskan seafood at local restaurants, your time here will be filled with unforgettable experiences.

Our personal favorites include taking a wildlife and glacier cruise. On this tour, you’ll witness stunning glaciers and marine wildlife up close. We also love strolling along the Small Boat Harbor.

It’s magical to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and mountain views. And, of course, exploring the waterfalls in Keystone Canyon, where Bridal Veil and Horsetail Falls create a magical experience.

Each activity, whether in town or out in nature, gives you a deeper connection to the stunning beauty and charm of this Alaskan gem. We hope this guide helps you make the most of your visit to Valdez!

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