"The hotel is housed in a historic building, in the city center on the popular and central boulevard."
צחי ח
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"There is a nice little room in the front for coffee with tables to sit at along with a giant stuffed bear to greet you."
Susanne from United States
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"Also the Free Shuttle stop #9 is just outside and across the street."
Kelsi from United States
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Van Gilder Hotel - A historic Victorian landmark with antique furnishings in downtown Seward
Dating from 1916, this 3-story concrete Seward hotel stands 4 minutes from Alaska SeaLife Center and 1 mile from Kenai Fjords National Park. Van Gilder Hotel houses 23 rooms, including 15 single queen rooms, 4 double queen suites with ocean views, and 3 pension rooms with shared bathrooms. Each room features antique brass beds, lace curtains, and pedestal sinks, while upgraded units include private bathrooms. The Victorian-style property includes a parlor and a lobby with a piano. The Van Gilder provides art gallery access and a library on-site. Located in downtown Seward, the property sits 2.5 hours from Anchorage by car and 3 hours from Homer. Nearby attractions include Mt. Marathon Jeep Trail (0.5 miles), Resurrection Bay Galerie (0.5 miles), and Chugach Heritage Center (0.5 miles).
Pros
Prime location near 7 restaurants within 0.3 miles, including Discovery Cafe and Apollo Restaurant
Scenic views of mountains, city, and sea from select rooms
Historical significance as Alaska's oldest hotel
Easy access to wildlife viewing areas for whales, seals, and puffins
Cons
Some rooms require sharing bathrooms
2 miles from Resurrection River
“Staying at the Van Gilder is like stepping back in time; it's authentic, and some might even say, endearingly worn around the edges. The lobby's coffee bar, complete with a Keurig, attempts to add modern convenience, and I think the staff's friendliness tries to make up for what the building lacks. If you appreciate historical charm over pristine perfection, and a very firm mattress, this could be your spot in Seward.”
Charlotte EvansHead of Editorial at Hotelsdowntown
Select room type
Choose from double rooms, family suites, and premium stays. Enjoy breakfast, flexible cancellations, and exclusive 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
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Check-in/ Check-out
Facilities
Hotel has comfortable rooms, premium services, and a prime downtown location
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
Location
308 Adams Street, Seward, 99664-0609,
Explore Seward
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Alaska SeaLife Center
6 minutes walking
Aquarium and rehabilitation center featuring marine life exhibits and animal interactions. Perfect for families and enthusiasts.
Seward Community Library & Museum
3 minutes walking
Local history exhibits and resources with engaging community events. Free admission makes it accessible for all ages.
Waterfront Park
14 minutes walking
Scenic park with walking trails, picnic areas, and stunning bay views. Ideal for relaxing or a family outing.
Lowell Creek Waterfall
14 minutes walking
Beautiful natural waterfall offering photo opportunities and a quiet escape. A must-see for nature lovers.
Kayaking in Resurrection Bay
7 minutes walking
Guided kayaking adventures exploring scenic bays. Rentals available nearby; great for adventure seekers.
Yoga Classes at Resurrect Art Coffee House
1 minute walking
Relaxing yoga sessions in a cozy setting. Check schedule for classes, a perfect unwind after day excursions.
Hiking Mt. Marathon
15 minutes walking
Challenging hikes with breathtaking views. Trail access is free; suitable for thrill-seekers and nature fans.
The Highliner Restaurant
1 minute walking
Casual eatery known for fresh seafood and local dishes. Enjoy outdoor seating and sunset views.
Discovery Cafe
2 minutes walking
Cozy cafe with a focus on breakfast and lunch. Offers vegetarian options and a welcoming atmosphere.
Resurrect Art Coffee House
1 minute walking
Artistic venue serving coffee and light bites. Unique ambiance with local artwork; vegan options available.
Seward Boat Harbor
3 minutes driving
Vibrant harbor area with shops and charter tours. Ideal for families and night wanderers to enjoy the waterfront.
Ranting Raven Gallery
2 minutes walking
Art gallery showcasing local artists and unique pieces. Often hosts events and openings.
Getting around
<br />
City Centre
Seward 3 min · 700 ft
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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
Feedback about Van Gilder Hotel from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 216 verified reviews
5.5 /10
Guest rating
38 %
Recommend
Cleanliness
6.5/10
Comfort
6.8/10
Facilities
5.9/10
Free WiFi
7.9/10
Location
8.5/10
Paid Wi-Fi
6.4/10
Staff
7.8/10
Value for money
6.0/10
Pros
Excellent location
Friendly staff
Traditional character
Cons
Overpriced
Smelly building
Guest reviews
based on 192 reviews
3/5
based on 155 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.
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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 at 11:00.
Is parking available at Van Gilder Hotel?
Private parking is available on-site for free without the need for reservation.
What are some nearby dining options to 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 within 0.5 km.
What amenities can guests find in their rooms at Van Gilder Hotel?
Rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV and antique style brass beds, along with lace curtains and 3/4 baths with pedestal sinks.
What activities can guests enjoy around Van Gilder Hotel?
Guests can enjoy activities such as hiking and fishing in and around Seward.
How far is Van Gilder Hotel from Kenai Municipal Airport?
The hotel is located 200 km from Kenai Municipal Airport.
Is there any internet access available at Van Gilder Hotel?
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel.
What nearby attractions are within walking distance from Van Gilder Hotel?
Attractions within walking distance include Alaska SeaLife Center and Seward Community Library & Eclectic Museum, both approximately 0.5 km away.
Are there any historical sites close to Van Gilder Hotel?
The hotel is situated near the historic Liberty Theatre.
What language is spoken by the staff at Van Gilder Hotel?