10 best things to do in Valdez, Alaska

If Valdez has a signature experience, this is it. Prince William Sound is known for tidewater glaciers, drifting ice and steady wildlife activity, and a boat puts you right in the middle of it. As you cruise through the sound, you’ll pass icebergs calved from nearby glaciers and scan the water for sea otters, seals and porpoises, with bald eagles often overhead.

Many guests choose the Columbia Glacier Cruise for its access to one of Alaska’s largest tidewater glaciers and the chance to see Prince William Sound from the water — where you get the best view.

Worthington Glacier delivers one of Valdez’s most straightforward glacier experiences. Located along Thompson Pass, this accessible ice field lets you step out and take in the scale without a long hike or technical terrain. You’ll see deep blue crevasses, rugged ice formations and mountain backdrops that make it clear why this area is a favorite for photographers.

Short walking paths and nearby viewpoints allow you to explore at your own pace, so it’s easy to balance time here with other spots you want to hit. Many guests visit as part of the Thompson Pass & Worthington Glacier Tour, which pairs glacier views with scenic mountain driving.

Keystone Canyon proves that Valdez scenery doesn’t require a long hike to impress. This narrow canyon cuts through the mountains just outside town, with Bridal Veil Falls and Horsetail Falls dropping dramatically alongside the road. Both waterfalls are easy to view from scenic pullouts — it’s a natural stop for photos without committing much time. The combination of rushing water, steep rock walls and changing light makes Keystone Canyon one of those places where even a brief stop leaves a strong impression.

Valdez has rebuilt itself more than once, and that resilience shows up in its history. Learning about the 1964 earthquake, the relocation of the town and the role Valdez plays in Alaska’s energy story is the best way to get to know this port.

Museums and local sites focus on how people adapted to the landscape rather than trying to conquer it. Guests who want an overview without digging too deeply often choose the Scenic & Historic Valdez experience, which blends storytelling with a relaxed look at town highlights.

The Valdez trolley is a good reminder that you don’t have to work hard to see a lot here. This easy-going ride circles town and the waterfront, pointing out historical sites, harbor activity and viewpoints framed by mountains on all sides.

It’s a simple way to get oriented, especially if this is your first visit or you want to save your energy for something more active later. Princess offers the Trolley Tour for guests who prefer a comfortable overview paired with local commentary and plenty of photo opportunities.

Solomon Gulch is one of those places where wildlife watching fits neatly into a port day. During salmon season, fish crowd the hatchery’s viewing areas as they move upstream, drawing attention from seabirds and other wildlife along the shoreline.

Interpretive signs explain how the hatchery supports local fisheries. The setting is scenic and low-key, making it easy to linger or move on depending on your schedule. For guests interested in Alaska’s fishing culture and the chance to spot wildlife in a natural setting, Solomon Gulch offers a straightforward stop with plenty to see.

Sometimes the best way to understand Valdez is to slow down and watch it work. A walk along the harbor dock puts you right next to fishing boats, charter vessels and floatplanes coming and going throughout the day. The views shift constantly, with mountains rising behind the water and light changing across the bay.

It’s an easy stop for photos, a quick snack or a quiet break between excursions. Benches and viewpoints make it easy to linger, while nearby shops and cafés keep things casual and unhurried.

Mineral Creek Valley is where Valdez trades paved roads for something a little rougher. This backcountry area cuts through steep terrain dotted with waterfalls, rocky stream crossings and wide-open views of the surrounding mountains. It’s scenic, yes, but also hands-on in a way that feels earned rather than staged.

Guided off-road rides take you deep into the valley without the need to navigate or worry about conditions. The Mineral Creek Guided UTV Ride is a solid pick for guests who want to cover more ground, get a little dusty and see a side of Valdez most visitors miss.

Valdez has a long reputation as a serious fishing town, and it shows once you get out on the water. Seasonal salmon runs draw anglers throughout the summer, while deeper waters offer opportunities to fish for halibut. Even if you’re not an experienced angler, local charters handle the setup and focus on technique rather than speed.

Fishing here is less about trophies and more about time on the water, steady action and learning how these fisheries fit into life around Prince William Sound. It’s a hands-on way to experience Valdez beyond the shoreline.

Old Town Valdez marks the original location of the community before the 1964 earthquake reshaped the area and prompted a full relocation. Today, the site is calm and open, with interpretive signs that explain what happened and why the town moved several miles away.

Walking the area gives you a clearer sense of how dramatically the landscape can change here, and how closely life in Valdez has always been tied to natural forces. This is the place to be if you’re looking for a shorter activity and are interested in how the town came to be where it is today.

Weather can shift quickly, even in summer, so waterproof layers and sturdy shoes make a noticeable difference once you’re ashore. Glacier cruises, off-road rides and water-based tours tend to fill first on port days, so plan ahead if you have a short window.

For cruise guests, organized excursions do the planning ahead for you, for both transportation and timing. Plus, you’ll cover more ground than independent exploring alone, too. Princess includes Valdez on select Alaska cruises, with cruises to Valdez designed around the region’s scenery and experiences. Book your cruise today and experience Valdez at your own pace.