Skagway
Country: USA · Region: Alaska · Currency: US Dollar
Skagway is a small Southeastern Alaska town of fewer than 1,000 residents that boomed during the 1896-1899 Klondike Gold Rush and now relies almost entirely on tourism. Cruise passengers will find historical interest and natural beauty in this gateway port.
Top sights
Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park Visitors Center, Gold Rush Cemetery, Skagway Museum and Archives, Jewell Gardens, Skagway Overlook, White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad
Things to do
- Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park Visitors Center
- Former railway depot built in 1898, restored to 1908-1915 appearance and serving as park headquarters with historic downtown buildings including Soapy Smith's Parlor and Mascot Saloon.
- Gold Rush Cemetery
- Historic cemetery featuring the grave of Jefferson 'Soapy' Smith and accessible by trolley tour or 20-minute walk from downtown.
- Skagway Museum and Archives
- Displays photos and artifacts from the Gold Rush era including a Tlingit canoe, Portland Cutter sleigh, and Bering Sea kayaks.
- White Pass and Yukon Route
- Historic railroad offering restored passenger car day trips with reversible seats through mountains to Canada, operating May to early October without requiring passports.
Beaches
- Footbridge to Yakutania Point & Smuggler's Cove
- Accessible trails, exercise course, and picnic spots south of the airport terminal off First Avenue.
Where to eat
- Skagway Fish Co.
- Serves halibut fish and chips and Alaskan king crab in a red building on Congress Way.
- The Smokehouse Alaska
- Upscale restaurant overlooking the small boat harbor located at 205 Congress Way.
Bars and nightlife
- Red Onion Saloon
- Located at 2nd and Broadway with Gold Rush era atmosphere and theme.
Getting around
The city is walkable as it is only a few blocks wide; S.M.A.R.T. City Transit provides small buses from cruise ship docks to downtown for $2 per trip or $5 for an all-day pass.
What to eat
Several restaurants and bars line the main street, with Skagway Fish Co. offering halibut fish and chips and Alaskan king crab, and The Smokehouse Alaska providing upscale dining overlooking the small boat harbor.
Tips
Book the White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad day trip in advance as it offers spectacular mountain views and does not require passports despite crossing into Canada.
Best for
Gold Rush history and scenic mountain views