Gustavus, the Gateway Community to Glacier Bay National Park, offers the ideal visitor experience of a town steeped in a rich homesteader history, with wildlife sightings, worldclass fishing, and wildlife adventures along with moments of solitude and well-being.

Whether you’re here to discover the pristine wilderness of Glacier Bay National Park via kayak, watch humpback whales feed in Icy Strait, or to try and land a trophy halibut, Gustavus has something for everyone with local business owners and tour operators who are determined to make your experience truly unforgettable.

Gustavus, Alaska is the Gateway to Glacier Bay National Park, is unique in its landscape and in its people. As the glaciers that covered the area 200 years ago have receded, the land in Gustavus has risen quickly – over an inch each year — and longtime residents have witnessed phenomenal changes.

The City of Gustavus, with a population of about 655, has a mayor and city council, and represents its residents to the state. Gustavus is a subsistence community, and the local harvest remains important to most residents.

Most people travel to Gustavus by jet, bush plane, or ferry ride from Juneau, Alaska’s capital. Alaska Airlines services our modern airport during the summer. We are located in Alaska’s southeast “panhandle”–a stretch of protected coastline that offers the best of Alaska and America to visitors from around the world.

Overview- Gustavus is the Gateway to Glacier Bay! Most people travel to Gustavus by jet, bush plane, or ferry ride from Juneau, Alaska’s capital. Alaska Airlines services our modern airport during the summer.

The history of Gustavus has three timelines: The forces of nature that formed it in the last 200 years, which makes Glacier Bay a United Nations World Heritage Site; white settlement; and Native oral history and use.

Your cozy and comfortable Alaskan Gustavus accommodation will feel like home away from home. Are you looking for a relaxing inn? A rustic fishing lodge? A bed and breakfast (B&B)? Vacation rentals? Gustavus has all that and more. Accommodations are available in a range of prices and styles. Take a look below at the many options Gustavus offers.

Explore Gustavus, Alaska with our detailed visitors map and brochure. Discover natural wonders, local businesses + attractions, and plan your dream trip today!

Lodgings are spread throughout Gustavus, about 5 miles square, with the approach to the beach, river and airport centralizing most services and our city park. Hiking trails are accessible to the public and the paved flat road is bike paradise.