The Van Gilder Hotel is a historic and charming old building located in downtown Seward. Its character and atmosphere give it a unique appeal, with many guests appreciating its fascinating history and vintage decor. The hotel’s sturdy construction has allowed it to stand the test of time, and its location offers good walkability to nearby attractions. While the hotel is not modern and lacks some amenities, such as an elevator, guests find the rooms to be nicely appointed, comfortable, and clean. Coffee and tea are available 24/7 on the main floor, and the staff is generally friendly and helpful. The hotel’s age contributes to its quirks, including creaky hallways and a slightly haunted vibe that some find intriguing. Reviews highlight a mix of experiences—some mention the need for a little love and maintenance, such as repainting, but overall, visitors feel that the price is fair given the historic charm. Many guests enjoy the experience of staying in a place with a storied past, and some even find it to be a memorable, one-of-a-kind stay. Despite its imperfections, the Van Gilder Hotel offers a unique and authentic lodging experience in Seward.
The hotel and rooms were definitely very old, but they had a certain charm that I could appreciate. It’s not modern, but the character and atmosphere made the stay enjoyable.
August 2025
Victorian era hotel stay in 2025... And that's not a good thing. The amount of decay in this building is significant, and no matter how hard they try, pinesol isn't going to change that.
August 2025
I see a lot of low ratings for this hotel and was skeptical going in. But I was surprised and not disappointed in the hotel. I enjoyed reading about the history and the hauntings. I would definitely stay here again.
