Enjoyed one night stay in historic Van Gilder Hotel. Convenient downtown location. Helpful receptionist even carried one of our suitcases up to third floor since there is no elevator. Shared bathroom, but has a sink in the room. Would stay there again. More

The best part about the Van Gilder is the bed - super comfortable. The next best thing is the staff. The next best thing is the downtown location. Unfortunately these things do not make up for the fact that the place looks and feels like a hostel at triple the price. Despite the historic nature of the Van Gilder, it... More

The hotel was clean and full of character. The location is near to Sea Life Center and downtown Seward but further (8 blocks) from port. The hotel staff should have mentioned about the shuttle transportation which is complementary from the Seward Chamber of Commerce. The difficulty with this hotel is that you have to ask about everything to know something.... More

The Van Gilder is definitely old --- we didn't get visited by the ghosts! The bed was extremely comfortable, the bathroom was very small but adequate. Overall the room was very small. We enjoyed the location as it was across the street from the shuttle bus system, you could walk anywhere in Seward from the hotel (we even walked to... More

This is a nice, antique hotel in a good location that provides a feel for earlier days in Seward. The rooms are small and cozy. If you travel with a partner, don't let him/her flush the toilet when you are in the shower or you will experience scolding hot water. It is one of the better values in Seward. A... More

If you would appreciate what it was to stay in an Alaskan owned, operated, and patronized hotel 110 years ago during the gold rush days, the Van Gilder would be your choice. This place is outstanding. Down to the last detail, the place is done to period, yet with enough amenities for comfort. The service is attentive, the location superb,... More

For the most part, I enjoyed my stay at the Van Gilder. For those looking for a nice, new hotel, this is not the place for you, the appeal here is the antique/historical nature of the hotel. As far as location, this hotel is conveniently located near the sea life center, but is a bit far from the port where... More

We stayed for 2 night at the van gilder in seward and had the best stay in our weeklong trip in alaska. Built in historic downtown district, the hotel is more a charming (and very reasonably priced) B&B than a inpersonal large scale hotel. The managers/caretakers were a nice couple who were friendly and v helpful..providing us with local phone... More

So overall the Van Gilder is fine, although having stayed at many historic B&B-type properties in the past, it could be so much better. Yes, no one should come to Seward expecting luxury, but even some nicer linens, cosmetic bathroom upgrades, and a cooked breakfast (or homemade breads, etc.) would go a long way. The location is great, though, and... More