Seward

Last week the kids and I headed south 3 hours to the small coastal town of Seward to meet up with Brian who was there on TDY.  Known for its scenic views, numerous visitor attractions, and as the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park & the Gulf of Alaska. The town is famous in Alaska for its Fourth of July celebration that features a grueling foot race to the top of the 3,000 foot Mt. Marathon (something that I think Brian wants to tackle one day).

Not only on the drive down through the Kenai Peninsula, but also once there, we were in awe of the snow-topped mountains, the beautiful Resurrection Bay and the serene landscape & wildlife. 

We stayed at the U.S. Army Seward Resort, although Brian was there to close down for the season the U.S. Air Force Recreation Camp.  Both places were prime for the outdoors men/women in the summer as well as the winter months.  Although we were only there for a day & a night, I can certainly see us visiting Seward again next summer and endulging in the fishing, hiking, taking a glacier cruise and seeing the whales & sea lions in the waters that lead to the Gulf of Alaska.

 

 I couldn't believe the view.  EVERYWHERE.

 The quaint little town is also home to the famous SeaLife Center (at the bottom of the hill), Alaska’s only public aquarium and ocean wildlife rescue center.  This was by far worth every moment (and every dollar) we spent with the kids there...

 ... visiting with the sea lions,

 puffins & so many other marine animals who make the Alaskan waters home.

 Probably one of the favorite parts of the SeaLife Center for the kids was this hands on exhibit with the fishing boat.  Complete with mini-boat, lifejackets, harbor scenery and fish/crab to catch... the kids wanted to go back for a second visit when we were all done.  They just couldn't get enough of it and it was priceless!

 The happy Captain

 Lots of catch today... crab & fish galore!

 And on the serious note, this is now more of a reality than hurricanes.

I guess we aren't in Florida anymore.

 Nope... we are now in the beautiful state of Alaska.

Fresh clean air, breath-taking views everywhere, and abundant wildlife...