"Loved how it highlighted the antiquity of the place but still had very comfortable bed and little extras."
Steven from United States
read full review
"It's an old, haunted building - what it lacks in amenities and upgrades, it definitely makes up for with charm and folklore."
Trish H
read full review
"We also made good use of the front lobby room with the coffee maker and microwave to have breakfast each morning."
Danette
read full review
Historic Downtown Hotel in Seward, Alaska
Accommodations
Van Gilder Hotel offers a variety of guest room styles, catering to visitors of all preferences. This includes 11 single queen rooms, upgraded rooms with en suite facilities, and 4 double queen suites featuring ocean views. The hotel also provides parlor and lobby spaces, including a piano area for relaxation.
Location
Situated in downtown Seward, the hotel is conveniently placed for exploring the surrounding natural beauty. It is a 4-minute walk from the Alaska SeaLife Center and less than a mile from Seward Boat Harbor. Additionally, the main entrance to Kenai Fjords National Park is just a short drive away.
Historical Significance
Dating back to 1916, Van Gilder Hotel stands as a landmark in Seward, Alaska, rich in history. Its Victorian-style furnishings add a touch of nostalgia, providing guests with a sense of on-site heritage. Staying here allows visitors to experience a part of local history that adds to their travel experience.
Nearby Attractions
The location of Van Gilder Hotel is beneficial for outdoor enthusiasts, offering easy access to wildlife observation opportunities. The cold waters of Seward's harbor are known for marine life, including Humpback Whales and Orcas. Nearby trails lead to Alaska's most accessible glacier, which can be approached in about 10 minutes.
Dining and Shopping
Guests can enjoy a range of dining and shopping options just a short walk away in downtown Seward. The vibrant local scene includes cafes and seafood restaurants that highlight the region's culinary offerings. This convenience allows travelers to savor authentic Alaskan cuisine just steps from the hotel.
Highlights
Location: Downtown Seward, a mile from Seward Boat Harbor
Accommodations: 11 single queen rooms and ocean view suites
Historical Significance: Landmark traditional hotel since 1916
Attractions: Short drive to Kenai Fjords National Park
“In my opinion, the building's exterior requires attention, but the location is prime for exploring the town's attractions. I noted that the staff is helpful and attentive, creating a positive atmosphere, despite some maintenance concerns. I think the historical charm and convenient access to Seward's downtown make it a worthwhile consideration for budget-conscious travelers who don't mind sacrificing modern amenities.”
Olivia SmithEditor-in-Chief at Cheaphotels
Select your room type
The hotel provides a selection of rooms—doubles, family rooms, and suites—with perks like free cancellation, breakfast options, and great value deals
Standard Double Room
2 persons
21 sq. feet
2 Double beds
Bathtub
Heating
room details
Queen Room
2 persons
14 sq. feet
1 Double bed
Heating
Shower
room details
Annex Apartment Offsite Property
2 persons
28 sq. feet
1 Single Bed or 1 Double Bed
Heating
room details
Show all rooms
Room rates & availability calendar
See the best prices and book your dates today!
August 2026 - August 2027
Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
August 2026
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
September 2026
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
1
2
3
4
October 2026
28
29
30
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
1
November 2026
26
27
28
29
30
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
1
2
3
4
5
6
December 2026
30
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
1
2
3
January 2027
28
29
30
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
February 2027
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
March 2027
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
1
2
3
4
April 2027
29
30
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
1
2
May 2027
26
27
28
29
30
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
June 2027
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
1
2
3
4
July 2027
28
29
30
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
1
Choose dates to see prices
Check-in/ Check-out
Amenities & services
Real traveler stories and honest reviews—no glossy ads, just authentic feedback to guide your booking
General
No smoking on site
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
Free Wi-Fi in rooms
Heating
Bathroom
Free toiletries
Media
Flat-screen TV
Room decor
Carpeted floor
Show more
Van Gilder Hotel Location
308 Adams Street, Seward, 99664-0609,
Explore Seward
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Alaska SeaLife Center
6 minutes' walk
An aquarium and marine research center showcasing local marine life, offering exhibits and educational programs.
Seward Community Library & Museum
3 minutes' walk
A community hub featuring local history exhibits as well as a wide selection of books and resources for all ages.
Waterfront Park
14 minutes' walk
A scenic park along the waterfront with walking trails, picnic areas, and views of Resurrection Bay.
Lowell Creek Waterfall
14 minutes' walk
A picturesque waterfall offering a peaceful escape and stunning views, ideal for photography and nature lovers.
Hiking Mount Marathon
15 minutes' walk
A thrilling hike with challenging trails leading to scenic viewpoints, popular among adventure seekers.
Kayaking in Resurrection Bay
25 minutes' walk
Guided kayaking tours available to explore stunning coastlines and marine wildlife; rentals can often be arranged locally.
Yoga in the Park
14 minutes' walk
Outdoor yoga sessions with scenic views of nature offering relaxation and mindfulness for all skill levels.
The Highliner Restaurant
1 minute' walk
A casual dining spot known for fresh seafood and local dishes with a comfortable atmosphere and waterfront views.
Resurrect Art Coffee House
1 minute' walk
A cozy coffee shop featuring locally roasted coffee, pastries, and a selection of vegan options to enjoy in an art-filled space.
Discovery Cafe
2 minutes' walk
A relaxed eatery serving a variety of dishes, perfect for a quick meal or coffee break with local ingredients.
Seward Brewing Company
10 minutes' walk
A local brewery serving craft beers with a lively atmosphere, often featuring live music and community events.
The Ranting Raven Gallery
2 minutes' walk
An art gallery showcasing local artists, with occasional events and workshops for all ages promoting community engagement.
Getting around town
City Centre
Seward 3 min · 700 ft
Looking for early-bird discounts?
Get special discounted rates today!
Check Rates
Property information and rules
Check-in
from 16:00-21:00
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
20
Reviews and Ratings
What past guests shared about their stay
Review score
Based on 203 verified reviews
5.5 /10
Guest rating
38 %
Recommend
Cleanliness
6.6/10
Comfort
6.8/10
Facilities
5.7/10
Free WiFi
7.9/10
Location
8.3/10
Paid Wi-Fi
6.4/10
Staff
7.5/10
Value for money
5.8/10
Pros
Walkable location
Vintage building
24/7 coffee
Cons
Overpriced stay
Water damage
Plumbing problems
Guest reviews
based on 192 reviews
3/5
based on 169 reviews
6.1/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
Open reviews
Show more reviews
FAQs
About Van Gilder Hotel
What is the check-in and check-out policy at Van Gilder Hotel?
Check-in is at 16:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
Is parking available at Van Gilder Hotel?
Free private parking is available on-site without the need for a reservation.
What dining options are available near Van Gilder Hotel?
Nearby restaurants include Discovery Cafe, Apollo Restaurant, Resurrect Art Coffee House, Seward Brewing Company, Peking Chinese Restaurant, Gold Rush Alaskan Bistro, The Cookery, and The Lone Chicharron Taqueria, all located within 0.5 km.
What amenities are provided in the rooms at Van Gilder Hotel?