Valdez, like many communities, was born out of the Alaska gold rush era. After the 1964 earthquake destroyed the city, Valdez was rebuilt in the ’70s. Then came the Trans-Alaska Pipeline, bringing fuel from Alaska’s oil fields in Prudhoe Bay to tankers in the Valdez harbor. After the oil spill in 1989, Valdez again overcame and rebuilt.
Today, the vibrant fishing community and industry town’s history, and resilience, is apparent. Check out local artists at the Valdez Art Co-op or visit the Valdez Museum (reopening soon) to dive into the area’s history and culture.
Check out other places to explore.
– Becca Pilipchuck, The Alaska 100