Whittier
The Town That Lives in One Building
Whittier was a secret WWII military port built beneath the glaciers of Prince William Sound. After the war, the military left, but civilians moved into the massive concrete buildings. Today, nearly all of Whittier's 200 residents live in a single 14-story building, while abandoned military structures crumble nearby.
Secret Port
The U.S. Army built Whittier in 1943 as a secret port protected from Japanese attack by surrounding mountains. Workers constructed a tunnel, rail line, and massive concrete buildings that could withstand the brutal weather.
One Building Town
After the military left, civilians moved into Begich Towers, a 14-story building with apartments, a post office, police station, and general store. The abandoned Buckner Building next door is Alaska's largest ruin.
Timeline
- 1943 - Built Army constructed the port
- 1960s - Military Left Army abandoned the base
- 1964 - Earthquake Good Friday Earthquake damaged town
- 2000 - Tunnel Opened Road tunnel connected Whittier to highway
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: Summer
Difficulty: Easy
Time Needed: Half day
Tips
- The tunnel has specific hours - check schedule
- Buckner Building is off-limits but visible
Quick Facts
- Nearly all 200 residents live in one building
- Accessible only by tunnel or boat
- The Buckner Building is Alaska's largest abandoned structure
Location
Address: Whittier, Alaska
Coordinates: 60.7772, -148.6836