“Great historical cozy building in downtown Seward.”

Cozy hotel in an old historical building. Well appointed and everything as expected. Walkable to great food, gift shops and a seaside park with amazing fjord views!

“Loved it!”

If you are looking for an historic hotel, this is it! Our room was clean and comfortable and breakfast was good. Coffee is available 24 hours a day. We were treated very well by the staff and they made every effort to get us anything we might need.

“Historic Van Gilder always a pleasure”

We really like historic hotels, and, for Alaska, you can't get much more historic than the Van Gilder in Seward. Comfortable, even though (of course) the rooms are small. Right in the heart of downtown. Clean, friendly, no frills. Community kitchen is a real plus. We'll be back.

“When you want a change from a typical hotel”

My wife an I enjoyed our stay at the Van Gilder very much. It is quite a place with lots of character. The staff was relaxed, friendly and helpful. If you are a history buff or like antiques, this is the place for you. The room was small by today's standards, but typical of the era the hotel was built. The breakfast was adequate and eating in the parlor was a treat. We would love to stay again.

“A step back in time....”

The Van Gilder Hotel is what it is. An old hotel that if you are not looking for glitz or glamour serves it's purpose very well. Other than a shower and a good nights sleep, we spent little time in our room. If you are planning alot of time in your room this probably is not the hotel for you nor the town or state to begin with. Located in the old downtown area of Seward it is within an easy walk to shopping and dining (across the street). If your fishing, you are only minutes from the action of the small boat harbor. We found it quite nice to be able to get away from the hussle and bussle down around the harbor to a quiet neighborhood surrounding. Truly a step back in time!! My wife and I both liked it!

“Nice old-school hotel”

It's a bit off the main drag if day cruises is what you're in Seward for, but the Hotel definitely has that 1910/20s charm. The continental breakfast was handy and the hotel staff was very nice and welcoming.

“Quaint, historic, and little”

Great location in Seward. Down the street from the SeaLife Center, walking distance to nearby restaurants, and a quick car ride to the cruise docks. No elevator, so travel light unless you want to carry everything up the stairs (only 3 floors). Room was clean, but smaller than anticipated as one of the two beds was a fold down over a desk in the room. Wi-fi didn't work on our floor, and TV was small and located up in a corner. If you want a taste of historic Seward, then this is the place to go.

“Not impressed.”

The lobby has the charm of an historical hotel. The rest of the place is a mismash of old and newer, with updates that are cheap and ugly. Next time it is the Seward Hotel for us - the town's other old hotel.

“Family atmosphere”

We chose this hotel because it had a jr suite which was convenient for us and our son. The hotel claims historic value and is nicely decorated. It is also a bit run down and could help with a coat of paint. Atmosphere is very friendly and homely. Breakfast and kitchen areas are comfortable and permit good communication with other guests.

“Old hotel”

Old hotel. Good location in town. Not real keen on common bathrooms, had a room with private bath