Alaska Railroad - Girdwood Depot — Local services in Alaska

Went from Anchorage to Seward, stayed 2 nights in Seward, and went back to Anchorage. On the trip down, I was enamored by the beauty. Every moment was beautiful, and we saw a moose among other animals. The train was super comfortable. We were in adventure class because that's all that was available at the time. 2 seats per side. Lots of leg room and space. Seats recline some. It was very family friendly, but there's also a bar where people respectfully get drinks. Lots of smiles. I was really cold (even though I'm an Alaskan AND I dressed in layers), so consider bringing an extra, extra layer.

On the way back, it was a little different. The train left at 6pm from Seward. It was still beautiful and roomy, but by the time we arrived in Girdwood, I think everyone aboard the train was very much so done! Most children 6 and under were restless, tired, and some were crying (quietly) if they weren't totally passed out on the seats with their weary parents. By the time we got our bags off the train in Anchorage, it was after 11pm. Not a reason not to go, but something to take into consideration if you have littles.

If you care about COVID, know that masks are "required", and the trains are operating at reduced capacity; however, there was zero enforcement once aboard the train on both of my trips. Masks were worn incorrectly more often than not, and often weren't worn at all. As a vaccinated person, I sorta don't care, but the train occupants were all travelers, very many of which are too young for a vaccine or older and at higher risk for severe disease.

Overall, would do again, but I think I would have skipped the return ride if I could have figured out how to get back to Anchorage....

Riding on the railroad was an amazing experience. We had such a great time chatting with Warren, Lilliana, and all the staff we encountered. In fact, one of my daughters was enthralled with the train pins several of the staff were wearing and one of them was even kind enough to give her a pin, which made her day! I regret I did not get her name, but she, Warren, and Lilliana were all extremely friendly, knowledgeable, and kind. While on the train from Girdwood to Seward, we were able to see bear, moose, trumpeter swans, beavers, and bald eagles. The narration was nice because we were able to learn information we would not have otherwise known. The staff was quick to let us know if wildlife had been spotted so we didn't miss out on the experience. The train departed and arrived on time both coming and going. We did not purchase any food or drinks, so I cannot attest to that portion of the ride, but the train was clean and ran smoothly. The views were all breathtaking and it was nice for everyone to get to relax and enjoy the...

What a great way to complete a 4 day Denali extension after an Alaskan Cruise. Our luxurious bus dropped us off so we could take the also luxorious Alaskan Railroad trip so we'd take in all the sites & believe me, this trip is glorious, imo. The food is grand & I suggest you check how many stars are on the Alaskan flag-that was worth winning a prize on our ride & it was yummy! Thank you. After wonderful food & staff telling in advance what sites were soon seen...we left our train full of great food, memories & pictures & got back on the bus for a short trip to destination. It's a good addition to our trip-enjoy your liesure ride...