Valdez

A deep-water port town famous for the Exxon Valdez oil spill site and now a scenic gateway to Prince William Sound's glaciers and wildlife. It offers excellent fishing, glacier cruises, and is accessible via the spectacular Richardson Highway.

Things to do

• Glacier Cruises in Prince William Sound — Day cruises depart from the harbor to view tidewater glaciers like Columbia Glacier and encounter sea otters, seals, and eagles.
• Fishing at Valdez Bay — World-class halibut and salmon fishing is available year-round with charter boats departing from the small boat harbor.
• Exxon Valdez Oil Spill Visitor Center — This museum documents the 1989 environmental disaster and its legacy, offering educational exhibits about the incident and recovery efforts.
• Richardson Highway Scenic Drive — The 366-mile route connecting Valdez to Fairbanks passes through mountainous terrain, offering roadside stops and views of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline.
• Sea Kayaking — Guided sea kayak tours explore the coves and islands of Prince William Sound with opportunities to paddle near glaciers and wildlife.
• Solomon Gulch Hatchery — Tour this salmon and steelhead hatchery to learn about fish biology and Alaska's aquaculture operations during spawning season.

Food to try

• Fresh Halibut — Valdez's abundant halibut catch is prepared simply grilled, pan-fried, or as fish and chips at local restaurants highlighting the daily catch.
• Copper River Salmon — When in season (May-June), the prized Copper River red and king salmon are served fresh at local eateries with rich, distinctive flavor.
• King Crab Bisque — This creamy local specialty features fresh Alaska king crab and is served at several waterfront restaurants during crab season.
• Sourdough Bread and Seafood Chowder — Local bakeries and cafes serve hearty sourdough alongside thick seafood chowders made with local catches and root vegetables.
• Smoked Salmon — Local smokehouses prepare and sell smoked salmon fillets and strips that visitors can take as gifts or consume fresh during their stay.

Local customs & good to know

• Prepare for Variable Weather — Valdez experiences rainy and windy conditions year-round; pack waterproof layers and expect outdoor activities to be weather-dependent.
• Respect the Oil Spill Legacy — The 1989 Exxon Valdez disaster remains a sensitive and defining part of local history; approach discussions and the visitor center with respect.
• Plan Ahead for Transportation — Valdez is isolated and accessed primarily by the Richardson Highway or by air and ferry; book accommodations and tours well in advance during peak summer season.
• Embrace the Fishing Culture — The community's economy and identity revolve around fishing; joining a charter or engaging with local fishing guides is a genuine way to experience Valdez life.