
Whittier CA
Discover Whittier, Alaska: a town where nearly everyone lives in one building, surrounded by dramatic glaciers and the stunning Prince William Sound.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for glacier views

Whittier CA
Best Time
Best light for glacier views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Whittier, Alaska: a town where nearly everyone lives in one building, surrounded by dramatic glaciers and the stunning Prince William Sound.
"Whittier is a town where all the residents live in the same building!"

🚗 Tunnel Access is Key
The Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel is the only road access. Check tunnel schedules as it operates on a timed basis. :car:
🧥 Pack for All Weather
Alaska's weather is famously fickle. Bring layers, waterproofs, and sturdy shoes for exploring. :cloudrain: :hikingboot:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Begich Towers: The Town Under One Roof
Begich Towers
Experience the unique phenomenon of an entire town living in a single building, a former army barracks.

Portage Glacier & Passage Canal
Chugach National Forest
Marvel at the stunning beauty of Portage Glacier, accessible via scenic hikes and boat tours.

Rodeo 72 PM Food Hall
Downtown Whittier
Indulge in a diverse culinary experience with over 14 vendors offering global flavors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Unique: Whittier's One-Building Living
Plan for Alaska's Weather & Wildlife
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Tunnel Access is Key
The Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel is the only road access. Check tunnel schedules as it operates on a timed basis. :car:
🧥 Pack for All Weather
Alaska's weather is famously fickle. Bring layers, waterproofs, and sturdy shoes for exploring. :cloudrain: :hikingboot:
🐻 Wildlife Safety First
Keep a safe distance from all wildlife. Never feed animals. :bear:
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond the Towers
Whittier offers more than just Begich Towers! Hike trails and enjoy the stunning natural surroundings. :mountain_snow:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Tunnel Access is Key
The Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel is the only road access. Check tunnel schedules as it operates on a timed basis. :car:
🧥 Pack for All Weather
Alaska's weather is famously fickle. Bring layers, waterproofs, and sturdy shoes for exploring. :cloudrain: :hikingboot:
🐻 Wildlife Safety First
Keep a safe distance from all wildlife. Never feed animals. :bear:
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond the Towers
Whittier offers more than just Begich Towers! Hike trails and enjoy the stunning natural surroundings. :mountain_snow:
🍽️ Diverse Food Hall Options
Don't miss the Rodeo 72 PM food hall for a variety of delicious eats. :pizza: :ramen:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently amazed by Whittier's unique character, particularly the Begich Towers, and the stunning natural beauty of Prince William Sound and Portage Glacier. The town's isolated charm and the novelty of its living arrangements are major draws, though some find the tunnel access and limited services a minor inconvenience.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The primary way to reach Whittier is by driving through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, a one-way, single-lane tunnel that is the longest of its kind in North America. It operates on a strict schedule, so check the tunnel operating hours before you go. Alternatively, you can take a scenic train from Anchorage.
Yes, Whittier is accessible by car via the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel. Be sure to check the tunnel's operating schedule as it alternates one-way traffic.
Yes, the Alaska Railroad offers a scenic train service to Whittier from Anchorage, which is a popular option for visitors who want to enjoy the views without driving.
The Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel is a historic tunnel that serves as the sole road access to Whittier. It's a unique experience, as traffic alternates directions on a timed schedule.
Whittier is located approximately 60 miles southeast of Anchorage, a drive that takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and tunnel wait times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no general admission ticket required to enter the town of Whittier itself. However, there is a toll for vehicles entering through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel.
There is a toll for vehicles entering Whittier via the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel. The fee varies for passenger vehicles and commercial vehicles. It's best to check the official Alaska Department of Transportation website for current rates.
The main restriction is the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel's operating schedule. Ensure you plan your arrival and departure around these times.
Absolutely! Whittier is a popular day trip destination from Anchorage, offering glacier tours, hiking, and a unique town experience.
The Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel operates on a timed schedule, alternating one-way traffic. It's crucial to check the current schedule online before your visit, as hours can vary seasonally.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Whittier is most famous for its unique living situation where nearly all residents live in the Begich Towers, a single building. It's also known for its stunning natural beauty, proximity to glaciers, and its role as a port for cruise ships.
You can explore the Begich Towers, take a glacier cruise on Prince William Sound, hike trails like the Portage Pass Trail, visit the Alaska Wildlife Guide, and enjoy the diverse food options at Rodeo 72 PM.
For those seeking unique travel experiences, Whittier is definitely worth visiting. Its unusual town structure and breathtaking natural surroundings offer a memorable trip.
Begich Towers is a large building in Whittier that houses most of the town's residents, along with shops, a post office, and other services. It was originally built as an army barracks.
Yes, Whittier offers several hiking opportunities, including the Portage Pass Trail, which provides stunning views of Portage Glacier and Passage Canal.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
A popular spot is the Rodeo 72 PM food hall, featuring over 14 vendors with diverse cuisines like Thai, Vietnamese, Italian, Mexican, and Japanese.
Whittier has a growing food scene, with the Rodeo 72 PM food hall being a highlight for its variety. Local eateries also offer Alaskan specialties.
You can find a wide range of international cuisines at the Rodeo 72 PM food hall, from Asian to Italian and Mexican.
With the opening of Rodeo 72 PM, Whittier is becoming more appealing to foodies, offering a diverse selection of culinary options in one location.
Given the variety at Rodeo 72 PM, trying a few different vendors is recommended. Look for local Alaskan seafood if available at other establishments.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique architecture of Begich Towers, the dramatic landscapes of Prince William Sound, and the stunning Portage Glacier. The drive through the tunnel also offers unique perspectives.
Summer mornings often provide beautiful light for photographing the glaciers and coastal scenery. Golden hour in the evening can also be spectacular.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes and the imposing Begich Towers. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions. :camera:
While specific photography tours might be limited, many general tours of Prince William Sound will offer excellent photographic opportunities.
The juxtaposition of the industrial port, the unique Begich Towers, and the raw, wild Alaskan nature makes for striking photographic subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Adventure Seekers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Remarkable Begich Towers
Visiting Begich Towers offers a rare glimpse into this extraordinary way of life. While access to private residences is, of course, restricted, the sheer scale and concept of the building are impressive to witness. It's a testament to human ingenuity and adaptation in a challenging environment. Many TikTok videos showcase the interior and exterior, highlighting the communal spirit and the practicalities of living in such a unique setting.
Exploring Prince William Sound & Glaciers
For the more active traveler, the Portage Pass Trail is a highly recommended hike. This moderately challenging 4-mile out-and-back trail rewards hikers with panoramic vistas of Portage Glacier and Passage Canal. The trail offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the Alaskan wilderness and capture stunning photographs. Remember to pack appropriate gear, as the weather can change rapidly in this region.
Culinary Delights at Rodeo 72 PM
This food hall is a fantastic option for groups with varied tastes or for anyone looking to sample a wide array of flavors in one convenient location. It's a testament to Whittier's evolving appeal as a tourist destination, providing modern amenities alongside its unique historical and natural attractions. The buzz around this food hall on social media highlights its popularity and the quality of the offerings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit