The Inn at Whittier.

• Author: Ellis-Knapp, Jody
• Position: EXECUTIVE GETAWAY

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The town of Whittier has long been a gateway for excursions on Prince William Sound. Located just off the Seward highway as one heads south towards Homer, Whittier is conveniently situated close to Anchorage, making it a popular tourist destination. It is also a unique place to visit in that it is accessed via the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, originally a World War II railroad tunnel that was converted in the year 2000 to allow vehicle traffic and the only way in and out of Whittier by land. The tunnel is open from 8:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. in the winter, and 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. in the summer. As it is only one lane wide, traffic is allowed through on an hourly schedule. With outdoor adventures such as glacier cruises, fishing charters and kayak tours, visitors flock to Whittier every summer to get a taste of the Alaska wilderness. But there is a well kept secret in Whittier that offers year round comfort and a quiet retreat from the daily grind--The Inn at Whittier.

Built in 2004 and currently owned by the Sea Lion Corp., The Inn is located at 5A Harbor Loop Road, the first left off the state highway after coming through the tunnel. This award-winning structure is four stories high and approximately 26,000 square feet. The Inn has a 150-seat restaurant and lounge, with views of the Whittier harbor. There are 25 rooms available, with the choice of two full beds, queen and king beds as well as full suites and junior suites. All rooms have televisions, quality bed linens and tasteful furnishings. The suites have Jacuzzi tubs and sitting areas and provide guests with amenities such as spa robes. There are also accommodations available for business meetings and wedding parties. Free wi-fi is available to paying guests in the main lobby and restaurant. The restaurant offers a variety of menu options, with a focus on fresh seafood from the nearby Sound.

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