If you’re planning an Alaskan cruise that includes a stop at Skagway, you’re in for a treat.
This town is as colorful as the historic buildings lining its Main Street. While the downtown area may be small, there’s no shortage of things to do in the surrounding area. As one of the most popular ports of call for Alaska cruises, Skagway offers both history and adventure.
However, it’s crucial to have a plan, especially since Skagway can get quite busy when multiple ships dock simultaneously. Fortunately, this guide will help you make the most of your day in Skagway, Alaska.
Skagway, Alaska History and Background
Skagway owes its origin to the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 1890s. When gold was discovered in the Klondike region of Canada in 1896, it set off a stampede of prospectors hoping to make their fortune.
Most arrived by boat to Skagway, which was then just a small settlement consisting of a single log cabin. From here, prospectors would begin the harrowing trek to the Yukon goldfields, traversing treacherous snow-covered terrain and mountain ranges on foot.
Today, Skagway is a well-preserved historic town with a population of around 1,000. Its economy relies heavily on tourism, and visitors are drawn to its Gold Rush-era buildings, eager to experience a slice of Klondike history.
Skagway Cruise Pier Location
Skagway is located in a narrow valley at the head of the Taiya Inlet, the northernmost point of Alaska’s Inside Passage. It’s just 15 miles (24 kilometers) from the Canadian border, making it a prime stop for an Alaska cruise traveling through the Inside Passage.
Read More: Cruising Alaska’s Inside Passage — What You Need to Know
Cruise ships dock at one of Skagway’s four piers, all within easy walking distance of the town’s historic district. For those who prefer not to walk, the wheelchair-accessible Skagway SMART bus shuttles passengers from the cruise docks to various attractions. Many shore excursions also include transportation from the pier.
Local Flavors of Skagway, Alaska
If you’re looking to experience the local flavors, Skagway offers plenty of options:
- Skagway Fish Company: Known for serving the best fish and chips in town, this is a must-visit spot for seafood lovers.
- Liarsville Camp: Enjoy an all-you-can-eat feast featuring Alaskan favorites, live entertainment and gold-panning fun.
- Red Onion Saloon: This historic gold rush-era bar is a great place to grab a drink and offers tours of its upstairs brothel museum.
- Skagway Brewing Company: Beer enthusiasts will want to try their signature Spruce Tip Blonde Ale, made from hand-picked local Sitka spruce tips.
- Skagway Spirits Distillery: As the town’s only distillery, this is the perfect place to sample handcrafted vodka or gin. They also offer bottles you can take home as a souvenir.
- Dejon Delights: This specialty food shop is the place to go for a taste of locally smoked salmon and halibut. They also sell other regional favorites like reindeer jerky and spruce-tip syrup, and they’ll even ship their smoked fish to your home.
Shopping in Skagway
Skagway’s historic district boardwalks are lined with various shops, from kitschy souvenir stores to local craft shops and art galleries.
Look for items marked with the “Made in Skagway” tag to ensure you’re purchasing something crafted locally. Highlights include:
- A Fine Line: Known for its hand-painted porcelain jewelry.
- Translucent Treasures: Offering beautiful stained glass sun-catchers.
- Glacial Naturals: Shops around town stock these locally-made soaps and tinctures.
Cultural Attractions in Skagway
If you’re interested in learning about Skagway’s history, start at the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park Visitor Center.
Here, you can watch a 25-minute film, Gold Fever: Race to the Klondike, that introduces the Gold Rush era. The park also offers free ranger-led tours of downtown Skagway, where you can explore historic buildings such as the Mascot Saloon Museum and the Moore Homestead, the town’s oldest cabin.
For a more in-depth look, visit the Skagway Museum, which houses the largest collection of Gold Rush-era artifacts in town. You’ll also find native Alaskan beadwork, carvings, and even a Tlingit canoe on display.
Located just outside the town, Jewell Gardens is another must-see attraction. Stroll through the relaxing flower gardens, tour the grounds, and watch a demonstration in Alaska’s only public glassblowing studio. The garden’s cafe serves fresh dishes made from produce grown onsite.
Top Skagway Cruise Excursions
Skagway offers many shore excursions, from traditional sightseeing tours to adventurous outdoor activities. Here are some of the most popular options:
White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad
By far the most popular excursion in Skagway, the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad follows the old narrow-gauge line used during the Gold Rush. Several tour options are available, from half-day White Pass Summit excursions to full-day adventures to Lake Bennett.
Chilkoot Trail Hiking
The historic Chilkoot Trail was the main route to the Yukon goldfields during the Gold Rush. While the entire trail is 33 miles long, day excursions offer a chance to explore the first section, often including stops at the ghost town of Dyea and the old Gold Rush cemetery.
Dog Sledding Adventures
Dog sledding is another top-rated excursion, perfect for families. Depending on the season, you can ride on dirt or take a glacier tour. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to meet and play with adorable sled dog puppies.
Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve Rafting
Skagway is home to the world’s largest concentration of bald eagles, and a rafting trip through the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve offers a fantastic opportunity to view eagles, bears, and other wildlife.
Yukon Tours
Travel along the scenic Klondike Highway into Canada’s Yukon Territory. You’ll enjoy breathtaking landscapes and photo opportunities along the way, including stops at the “Welcome to Alaska” and “Yukon – Larger Than Life” signs. Don’t forget your passport for this one!
Insider’s Tip: Yakutania Point
To escape the crowds, take the short trail from the harbor to Yakutania Point. This peaceful spot offers stunning views of Skagway Harbor and the Chilkat Mountains.
It’s also a great place to spot wildlife, including seals and the occasional whale. With picnic tables and a small shelter, it’s an ideal spot for a scenic lunch away from the hustle and bustle.
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