Whittier, Alaska, is unlike any other town in America. This remote community of just over 200 residents lives almost entirely within a single building called the Begich Towers. The structure, a mix of apartments, a post office, a grocery store, and even a school, serves as a self-contained world for its residents, many of whom rarely venture outside—sometimes for months.
The isolated town, accessible only by a single tunnel or boat, is surrounded by the harsh Alaskan wilderness. Winters can be particularly brutal, with extreme cold and frequent storms making outdoor activities challenging. For residents, the convenience of having essential services within walking distance under one roof is not just a perk—it’s a necessity.
A recent visitor to Whittier shared their experience online, detailing the unique sense of community in the tower. Residents warmly welcome outsiders, despite the town’s unusual lifestyle, and they’ve created a close-knit environment where everyone knows each other. The visitor noted how the arrangement fosters both cooperation and a certain level of curiosity about the world beyond the town’s confines.
While some might find the idea of such confined living claustrophobic, Whittier’s residents embrace it as a way of life. For them, the building is more than just a home—it’s a fortress against the challenging elements and a testament to the resilience required to live in one of the most remote corners of the U.S.
