Whittier, CA - Image 1
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Whittier CA

4.6
·491k reviews·Whittier, United States

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 content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Best light for glacier views

CrowdMedium
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Whittier, CA - Image 1

Whittier CA

Best Time

Summer mornings

Best light for glacier views

CrowdMedium

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.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Whittier is a town where all the residents live in the same building!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Begich Towers: The Town Under One Roof

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

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

Rodeo 72 PM Food Hall

Downtown Whittier

Indulge in a diverse culinary experience with over 14 vendors offering global flavors.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Unique: Whittier's One-Building Living

Whittier, Alaska, is famous for its unique living situation where nearly all residents reside in the Begich Towers. This former army barracks offers a glimpse into a truly communal lifestyle, a fascinating aspect for any visitor.

Plan for Alaska's Weather & Wildlife

Alaska's weather can be unpredictable. Pack layers for rain, wind, and cooler temperatures, even in summer. Be aware of wildlife, especially in natural areas, and maintain a safe distance.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Best light for glacier views
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer tour groups
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

I didn’t belive this until I went! #whittier #whittieralaska #alaska #whittierak #alaskatravel #alaskamustsee #alaskalife #travel #travelalaska
@_raechelmichels_
5.2K likes • 196.5K views

🚗 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:

love a good Whittier trip🖤 this is a draft from last fall! #Alaska #whittieralaska #travelvlog #naturevlog #hikes #Alaskaadventures #Alaskalife #Alaskatravel #PrinceWilliamSound #ChugachMountains #PortageGlacier
@alaskan_witch
5K likes • 81.7K views
Whittier’s a lot more than “the town under one roof”! 🏡 Back with another travel blog! Slowly (super slowly) but surely catching up 🥹 #travel #traveltiktok #alaska #travelbucketlist #travelvlog #fyp #traveltheworld #whittier #hiking
@mironmountains
1K likes • 36.9K views

🐻 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:

Whittier, Alaska is absolutely one of the weirdest towns in the world: part 2 • A town where all the residents live in the same building…but the building was built as army headquarters in the 1950s as the Hodge Building…and just when you thought it couldn’t get any weirder, it was renamed the Begich Towers after an Alaskan Senator, who disappeared in area without a trace in the 70s • Whittier is ...
@our.big.backyard
7.4K likes • 283.6K views

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

4.6
(491k reviews)

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

Unique Begich Towers
Stunning glacier views
Prince William Sound cruises

What People Dislike

Tunnel schedule waits
Limited services

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. TikTokReddit

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

🎫 🎫 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. TikTok

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. TikTok

The main restriction is the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel's operating schedule. Ensure you plan your arrival and departure around these times. TikTok

Absolutely! Whittier is a popular day trip destination from Anchorage, offering glacier tours, hiking, and a unique town experience. TikTok

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. TikTok

🎫 🏞️ 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. TikTok+2

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. TikTok+2

For those seeking unique travel experiences, Whittier is definitely worth visiting. Its unusual town structure and breathtaking natural surroundings offer a memorable trip. TikTok+1

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. TikTok+2

Yes, Whittier offers several hiking opportunities, including the Portage Pass Trail, which provides stunning views of Portage Glacier and Passage Canal. TikTokReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. TikTok

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. TikTok

You can find a wide range of international cuisines at the Rodeo 72 PM food hall, from Asian to Italian and Mexican. TikTok

With the opening of Rodeo 72 PM, Whittier is becoming more appealing to foodies, offering a diverse selection of culinary options in one location. TikTok

Given the variety at Rodeo 72 PM, trying a few different vendors is recommended. Look for local Alaskan seafood if available at other establishments. TikTok

📸 📸 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. TikTok+1

Summer mornings often provide beautiful light for photographing the glaciers and coastal scenery. Golden hour in the evening can also be spectacular. TikTok

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. TikTok

The juxtaposition of the industrial port, the unique Begich Towers, and the raw, wild Alaskan nature makes for striking photographic subjects. TikTok+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Whittier offers a unique and educational experience for families. The concept of the Begich Towers is fascinating for children, sparking curiosity about different ways of living. Glacier cruises on Prince William Sound are often a hit, with opportunities to spot marine wildlife. The Rodeo 72 PM food hall provides a variety of kid-friendly food options, making meal times easy. Remember to pack layers and rain gear, as Alaskan weather can be unpredictable, and ensure children maintain a safe distance from any wildlife encountered. TikTok+2

🚶‍♀️ Adventure Seekers

For adventure seekers, Whittier is a prime location. The Portage Pass Trail offers a rewarding hike with stunning glacier views. Glacier cruises provide an up-close encounter with the raw power of nature. Consider kayaking or fishing excursions in Prince William Sound for a more immersive experience. The unique tunnel access and the dramatic landscapes also appeal to those looking for off-the-beaten-path destinations. TikTokReddit+1

📸 Photographers

Whittier presents a photographer's dream with its blend of the unusual and the spectacular. The Begich Towers offer a striking architectural subject, contrasting with the wild Alaskan scenery. Portage Glacier and the fjords of Prince William Sound provide dramatic natural landscapes. Early morning or late evening light can enhance the beauty of the glaciers and the coastal areas. Don't forget to capture the unique experience of the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel. TikTok+2

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Remarkable Begich Towers

Whittier's most defining feature is the Begich Towers, a building that is home to nearly all of the town's approximately 200 residents. This massive structure, originally built as an army barracks during the Cold War, has been transformed into a self-contained community. Inside, residents have access to apartments, a post office, a general store, a church, and even a doctor's office. This unique living arrangement means that for much of the year, residents can go about their daily lives without ever needing to step outside, a concept that fascinates many visitors. TikTok+4

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. TikTok+2

Exploring Prince William Sound & Glaciers

Whittier serves as a gateway to the breathtaking Prince William Sound, a vast expanse of icy waters, fjords, and glaciers. The most famous glacial attraction accessible from Whittier is Portage Glacier. Visitors can experience its grandeur through various means, including scenic boat tours that navigate the sound, offering close-up views of calving glaciers and potential wildlife sightings like seals, sea otters, and various bird species. TikTok+1

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. TikTokReddit

Culinary Delights at Rodeo 72 PM

Whittier's culinary scene has received a significant boost with the opening of Rodeo 72 PM, a vibrant food hall located in the heart of the town. This exciting new venue boasts over 14 diverse vendors, offering a global gastronomic journey. Whether you're craving authentic Thai, savory Vietnamese, classic Italian, zesty Mexican, or delicate Japanese cuisine, Rodeo 72 PM has something to satisfy every palate. TikTok

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. TikTok