One of the most common questions travelers ask when planning a trip to Alaska is how to get from Anchorage to Seward. The two main options—driving or taking the train—each have their own appeal, and choosing between them really depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. Having done both, I’ll walk you through the pros, cons, and things to consider so you can decide what’s best for your trip.
Driving to Seward
Driving gives you the freedom to make the journey your own. You can stop wherever you like, whether it’s for a quick hike, a meal in Girdwood, or a photo of Turnagain Arm. It’s also the better option for spotting wildlife, since you’ll be able to pull over if you see moose, eagles, or even bears along the way. If you’re traveling with a group, the cost of renting a car and splitting gas is often more affordable than multiple train tickets.
That said, driving does have its downsides. Summer traffic can slow things down, and motorhomes or road construction might test your patience. You’ll also need to stay focused on the road, which means you can’t fully soak in the scenery unless you stop. Accidents occasionally close the highway, too, which can delay your trip.
Taking the Train
The Coastal Classic train, operated by the Alaska Railroad, runs between Anchorage and Seward from mid-May through mid-September. It’s a scenic four-and-a-half-hour ride that allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the view without worrying about traffic. With open-air platforms, glass-dome cars in the premium class, and onboard food service, the train feels like an experience in itself.
On the flip side, you lose flexibility. You can’t stop in small towns along the way, and once you arrive in Seward, you’ll need to rely on taxis or shuttles to get around. Tickets aren’t cheap either—especially for families—but for solo travelers or couples who want a stress-free trip, it can be worth it.
Cost Comparison
During the peak summer season, a round-trip train ticket ranges from about $219 for Adventure Class to over $450 for GoldStar Service, which includes meals and drinks. Children’s fares are discounted, and toddlers under two ride free.
Car rentals in summer often run around $150–$175 per day, not including gas and insurance. For a three-day trip, this can easily add up to over $500. However, with more than two people, driving can quickly become the more budget-friendly option.
Travel Time
The train leaves Anchorage early in the morning and arrives in Seward around late morning, making it ideal if you’re planning to connect with day cruises out of Seward. The return trip gets you back late in the evening. Driving, by contrast, takes about two and a half hours nonstop—but realistically, you’ll want to pause for photos or short hikes, which can stretch the journey into an all-day adventure.
Activities Along the Way
Driving opens up endless opportunities. You can explore Girdwood’s hiking trails, visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, detour to Whittier through the tunnel, or check out Portage Glacier. Near Seward, there are additional trails and viewpoints worth the stop.
Taking the train gives you a different kind of experience. You’ll see stretches of wilderness inaccessible by road, and the slow pace allows for plenty of time to relax, take photos, and enjoy the ride. Families with kids often find the train appealing since children can move around instead of being confined to a car seat.
Scenic Highlights
Both routes are stunning, but the train edges out slightly if pure scenery is your priority. It winds through remote mountain areas and untouched landscapes, while the drive offers incredible coastal views, alpine lakes, and plenty of places to stop and take it all in. Either way, you won’t be disappointed.
Who Should Take the Train
The train is best for solo travelers, couples, and anyone who wants a carefree trip without dealing with logistics. It’s also a great option if you’re joining a cruise in Seward or Whittier and don’t need a rental car for the rest of your journey.
Who Should Drive
Families, groups, and anyone who wants to explore beyond Seward will benefit from renting a car. Driving makes it possible to continue to places like Cooper Landing or Homer, and it gives you the flexibility to stop for hikes, rafting, or simply soaking in the views at your own pace.
Final Thoughts
Both options are excellent, but the right choice depends on your priorities. If freedom, flexibility, and budget matter most, go with the car. If you’d rather sit back, relax, and let someone else do the work, hop on the train. Either way, the journey to Seward is just as memorable as the destination itself.
