Photo from Far North Follies.
What's New in Valdez in 2021?
New attractions and developments in Valdez in 2021 that may be of interest to journalists, travel writers, and other media professionals.
The Breweries
Valdez is home to two brand new craft breweries that have opened and remained open despite the recent pandemic: Valdez Brewing, which opened in late 2019, and Growler Bay Brewing which opened in 2020. Private tours of the breweries are available by arrangement.
The Far North Follies
The Far North Follies is a local vaudeville theatre show that debuted in 2019. The theatre troupe hilariously retells the history of Valdez, Alaska from the Gold Rush to the present day, providing an immersive experience for audiences. In 2021, the vaudeville show was complimented by the catering services of Valdez's gourmet Serendipity Supper Club for a complete dinner-theatre experience.
Valdez Electric Bike and Kayak Rentals
Valdez Electric Bike and Kayak Rentals began offering bike and kayak rentals in 2020 and winter electric fat-tire bikes in winter 2021. The kayak rentals are generally used to paddle along scenic Robe Lake. The electric bikes allow visitors to zoom around town, access local biking trails, visit Valdez Glacier Lake and Old Town Valdez while enjoying views of Port Valdez and the Chugach Mountains.
The Berry Trail in Thompson Pass
The Berry Trail is a new trail coming to Valdez, located in Thompson Pass and currently under construction by the Valdez Adventure Alliance. Berry Trail is projected to open in 2022. The trail runs from Raspberry Rock to Blueberry Rock, a length of 2700 feet, about half a mile or 0.8 km. The trail provides access to Thompson Lake. The trail also provides access to rock climbing locations on Raspberry Rock and Blueberry Rock.
City of Valdez COVID Conscious Business Program
In response the COVID-19 pandemic, the City of Valdez launched the COVID Conscious Business certification program. The program is administered by the City and "recognizes Valdez businesses and organizations that meet certain COVID conscious health and safety criteria".