The current name was derived from Point Gustavus, which lies 7 miles to the southwest. Glacier Bay National Monument was established by President Calvin Coolidge in 1925. It became a National Park in 1980, with the passage of the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act. The nearby Glacier Bay Park is a major recreation and tourist attraction in Southeast. The lodge, airport, school, small businesses, and the Park Service offer employment.
Gardening is a prevalent local activity.
Transportation Gustavus offers a State-owned airport with jet capability and other scheduled flights. The airport is currently undergoing major improvements. Float planes land at nearby Bartlett Cove. Air traffic is relatively high during peak summer months, and several cruise ships include the Bay in their itinerary. There is a 10-mile local road connecting Bartlett Cove with the airport.