skagway alaska cruise port things to do

20 Best Things to do in Skagway Alaska Cruise Port – Complete Guide

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Skagway, Alaska is a popular cruise port with a fascinating history. Cruisers who stop in Skagway will find a town that has retained its gold rush era charm and activities and excursions that will appeal to a variety of ages and interests.

In fact, Skagway may just be a highlight of your Alaska cruise !

In 1898, Skagway became a base camp and supply station for thousands of Yukon gold rush miners. People seeking their fortunes would start in Skagway and then choose either the steep (but shorter) route over the White Pass Trail or the Chilkoot Pass Trail located in nearby Dyea.

Growing up in Alaska, I was able to experience many historical gold rush towns. It is enthralling to step into the past and learn about the grit and determination of early Alaskan settlers.

In this post, I share the best things to do in Skagway on a cruise, including shore excursions as well as inexpensive or free activities. I’ve also included the information you’ll need to know about visiting the Skagway cruise port for the day and answered common questions.

Skagway Cruise Port

Most cruise ships arriving in Skagway will dock at at one of three locations right on the edge of town: Ore Dock, Railroad Dock or Broadway Dock.

The city of Skagway is within easy walking distance of the cruise port. There are many shore excursions to choose from, including the popular and historic White Pass Trail, that are accessible to cruise passengers.

What Cruise Passengers Need to Know About Skagway Cruise Port

Although close to Canada, Skagway is located in Alaska (USA). The official currency is the USD (United States Dollar).

Businesses in Skagway will accept cash, credit and debit cards.

In Alaska, you might hear some unusual vernacular including “Lower 48” (the 48 contiguous United States), “break-up” (spring time when ice and snow finally melt) and “cheechako” (a newcomer), but the primary language is English.

90% of Alaska (including Skagway) is within the Alaska Standard Time Zone. Alaska Standard Time Zone is one hour behind Pacific Time and four hours behind the Eastern Time Zone.

In Skagway, the weather will range from the 40s to the low 60s during Alaska cruise season. Skagway has the driest climate of any of the Southeast passage port towns, which means you’ll probably enjoy sunny weather during your visit.

Tip: When considering what to wear on your Alaska cruise , it’s a good idea to dress in layers. Mornings will start off cool, but the weather can warm up significantly later in the day.

Getting Around Skagway

It is very easy for cruisers to get around Skagway on foot. It’s only a short walk from the dock to downtown Skagway. Overall, this city is very walkable.

Public Transit

The Skagway Municipal And Regional Transit (SMART) offers a SMART shuttle bus. Their “Dock to Downtown” Loop runs every 15 minutes during cruise season.

An all-day SMART bus pass costs $5 per person or you can pay $3 per person for a one-way pass.

Electric Bikes (EBikes)

Renting an E-Bike will give you independence and speed as you explore Skagway.

You can also book a self-guided tour through Klondike Bikes, and even arrange to have a picnic lunch ready for pickup when you arrive. All rentals include helmets and bike locks.

Car Rentals

There aren’t many car rental options in this small town. DIY Jeep Tours is one innovative option that combines a rental car with a built-in tour guide. Each rental includes a CD that will give you mile-by-mile guide explaining historic and scenic spots.

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The 10 Best Skagway Shore Excursions

The variety of shore excursion options is one reason why Skagway is such a popular stop for cruise ships. From gold mining history to rainforest bicycle tours, it might be hard to narrow down your list of things to do.

Here are some of the best Skagway excursions.

1. Ride the White Pass and Yukon Route Railway

This breathtaking train ride will take you on the White Pass Summit route that gold miners took in 1898. You’ll see glaciers, waterfalls, mountains and even signs of the original Klondike trail worn into rocks.

The train ride lasts from 2.5-2.75 hours and goes 40 miles round trip. You do not need your passport to ride the White Pass and Yukon Route Railway, but be sure to bring your camera.

If this is your first Alaska cruise , the White Rail Pass is a shore excursion to consider.

2. Feel the Rush of a Dog Sled Ride

Skagway offers a very unique opportunity to learn about the history of dog sledding and experience an exhilarating dog sled ride.

There are several different companies that offer sledding experiences including a dogsled ride on a wheeled “summer sled.” Watching trained huskies pull a dog sled is an awe inspiring experience. Not only are sled dogs powerful, they also love what they do (and it shows).

The dog sledding and musher’s camp shore excursion is a popular Alaska cruise line excursion.

3. Pan for Gold at Liarsville Goldrush Camp

You’ll be transported back to Skagway’s gold rush days with this entertaining excursion that takes two hours and includes transport to and from the cruise ship aboard a bus.

An all-you-can-eat salmon feast awaits you once you arrive at the “Liarsville” camp. Afterwards, you’ll head to a gold rush era trail camp, for a melodrama performance with costumed 19th century characters.

You’re guaranteed to strike gold as you learn all about gold panning. Use the rest of your time to walk through the camp’s laundry, bordello and gift shop.

4. Head to the Yukon Boarder on a Mini Bus Tour

On this guided tour, you’ll travel 100 miles roundtrip to the Yukon border. Along the way, there are numerous photo stops and opportunities to see wildlife including bear, moose, caribou and bald eagles.

This narrated scenic tour will give you a better glimpse into the interior of Alaska and provide you with interesting gold rush history and nature information.

This tour meets at the cruise ship pier. Because you’ll crosses over into Canada, passports are required for adults and children over age 16. Children under 16 need to have either a passport or an original raised seal birth certificate.

5. Take in the Majesty of Glaciers with an Aerial Tour

It’s hard to describe the spectacular feeling of seeing a glacier in person. With an other-worldly blue color and colossal size, you won’t want to pass up the opportunity to see (and walk on) a river of ice.

If you choose an aerial glacier excursion , you can book it through the cruise line, take a SMART bus or walk 5-30 minutes to the helicopter port (depending on your dock location). After 15 minutes of preflight instruction and safety training, you’ll put glacier boots over your shoes and climb aboard a helicopter for a 40 minute round trip flight.

Guides choose the best route and landing spot depending on weather, but explorers will potentially land on either the Chilkat, Ferebee or Meade Glaciers. After landing, your experienced glacier guide will spend 40 minutes with you on the glacier, teaching you about glaciers and answering any questions you might have before you return back to the helicopter port.

6. Float the Taiya River

For cruisers wanting to experience Alaskan outdoors and wildlife, a Taiya River Float Trip is an excellent choice. Your 2.5 hour trip includes a 10-mile drive along the Dyea Valley and 35-45 minutes floating down the scenic Taiya River.

Because this river is fed by glacier water, it has a gorgeous green-turquise color. Bits of rock called “glacial flour” reflect sunlight, resulting in a beautiful and unusual color.

There is a good chance you will see Alaskan wildlife including bald eagles, otters, moose, and potentially bears.

7. Rainforest Cycling Trip

Did you know that Southeast Alaska is home to the nation’s largest rainforest? You can experience the beauty of a temperate rainforest in this active excursion.

Your adventure begins with a 25 minute van ride through Skagway, up the coastal mountains to the summit of White Pass. You’ll then begin a 15-mile downhill, 1.5 hour bicycle ride on the paved Klondike Highway past waterfalls, mountains, glaciers and historic sites.

8. Explore the Shores of North America’s deepest Fjord in an Ocean Raft

Skagway is home to Lynn Canal, North America’s longest and deepest fjord. This is a high adventure excursion on a speed boat that will have you flying past gorgeous waterfalls, rocky beaches and wildlife.

Each 17-25 person open air boat includes a captain and a naturalist that share interesting facts. The boats stop often for wildlife viewing and photo taking opportunities.

This excursion is for ages 10 years and up, and you’ll be outfitted in a one-piece “exposure suit” (basically a giant warm and waterproof jumpsuit), a balaclava hat, goggles and gloves.

9. Explore the Chilkoot Trail

The 33-mile Chilkoot Trail is called “The World’s Longest Outdoor Museum” because of the artifacts left behind by hundreds of gold rush miners in the late 1890s.

Cruisers can get information about the historic Chilkoot trail and a hiking permit at the Trail Center in Skagway, located on Broadway between 5th and 6th Avenues.

If you decide to Explore Chilkoot Trail, all hikers must watch a 30 minute mandatory trail orientation video scheduled at 8am, 10am, noon, 2pm, and 4pm daily at the Trail Center during the permit season.

The trailhead starts in Dyea, a 10 mile drive from Skagway. SMART Bus has a shuttle that runs to Dyea for $15 a person.

10. Rainforest Ziplining

You’ll get a bird’s eye view of North America’s largest temperate rainforest as you soar down a zipline in this active excursion.

The Grizzly Falls Ziplining Expedition includes 10 ziplines and four suspension bridges. You’ll begin with a 35 bus ride from the cruise ship dock to Dyea. After safety training, you’ll have two hours to fly through the rainforest at speeds over 45 miles per hour over spectacular sights including glacier fed waterfalls.

Cruisers of all ages will love this active adventure in Skagway.

10 of the Best Free Things do do in Skagway Cruise Port

1. Stroll Down a Gold Rush Main Street

Skagway’s mainstreet is home to darling shops, restaurants and museums. You could easily spend a few hours enjoying the boardwalk and perusing shops that sell jewelry, furs, and unique-to-Alaska gifts and souvenirs.

The downtown boardwalk is about a 10 minute walk from the docks.

2. Enjoy a “Ranger’s Choice” Daily Talk

Every day from Early May to Late September, you can hear rangers from the National Park Service talk about their favorite Alaskan subjects at the Visitor Center.

The NPS Visitor Center is less than a half a mile from most cruise ship docks, at 2nd and Broadway in the old White Pass & Yukon Route Depot building.

Talks range from 10-30 minutes and include a variety of subjects.

3. Watch a Movie About the Gold Rush in Skagway

A free 25-minute film “Gold Fever: Race to the Klondike” is shown at the NPS Visitor Center.

Check in to find out what time(s) the film is shown that day. You’ll leave with a great understanding of Skagway’s part in the Yukon Gold Rush.

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4. Shop and Learn at Corrington’s Alaskan Ivory & Museum

If you love history and shopping, you’ll want to stop in at Corrington’s. The museum is tucked in the back of this high-end gift store and specializes in native artwork. It tells the history of Alaska in scrimshaw: artwork that is carved into ivory, whalebone and other materials.

The museum itself takes 30-45 minutes to walk through. Afterwards, you can shop for your own scrimshaw, or another unique souvenir, to take home.

5. Marvel at the Snow and Ice Cutting Train on Broadway

Make your way down Broadway Street in downtown Skagway to get a picture of the snow and ice cutting train formerly used by the White Pass & Yukon Railroad.

This massive train/snowplow was built in 1898 and cleared the tracks here until 1964. It was restored in 1995 and is now on display for visitors to enjoy.

6. Take a picture of “The Most Photographed Building In Alaska”

The exterior of the Skagway Visitor’s Center, located in the historic Arctic Brotherhood Hallm is a tourist destination all on its own.The outside of this building is intricately decorated with over 8,800 pieces of driftwood.

If you step across the street, you can see the letters “AB” (Arctic Brotherhood) and “1899” above the door. This unique building is a must-see!

7. Go Birding at Yakutania Point

The trail head begins 15 minutes from the NPS Trail Center downtown. You’ll cross the Skagway River on a footbridge, then hike through trees until you come to a glorious overlook of the Lynn Canal fjord and docked cruise ships.

Yakutania point is a great bird watching spot year round. You can read about the birds you might see and get a Skagway bird species checklist here .

This hike is 1-2 miles and will take you 1-2 hours roundtrip.

8. Step Into History at the Gold Rush Cemetery and Lower Reid Falls

This historical cemetery is 4 mile round trip walk from downtown Skagway. You can also take the local SMART bus shuttle, which will drop you off about a half mile from the cemetery.

There’s a fascinating list of people interred in the Gold Rush cemetery. You can see their ages and the common (and uncommon) ways that people died during in Skagway during the Gold Rush.

Lower Reid Falls is a 10-15 minute hike behind the cemetery. This path is suitable for anyone with mobility issues.

9. Experience the Tranquility of Lower Dewey Lake

If you want more a more challenging hike away from the cruise crowds, head to Lower Dewey Lake.

It’s a little less than a mile to get to the trailhead frown downtown, and then 3.6 miles around the lake.

The trail starts out with an uphill climb, but quickly evens out and becomes a leisurely loop. Chances are good that you’ll spot some wildlife as you experience peace and quiet.

Plan to spend 2-3.5 hours on this hike, depending on your speed.

10. View Gold Rush Artifacts at the Skagway Museum & Archives

If you want to learn about the Yukon Gold Rush, the Skagway Museum and Archives is a fun (and inexpensive!) option.

Located in a historical building on 7th Avenue & Spring Street, this museum now houses artifacts from Gold Rush Days, historical documents, photographs and even a taxidermied Alaskan brown bear!

A $2 donation is suggested. Your money will be well spent as you walk away with a better understanding of the importance of Skagway in Alaska’s history.

Eat & Drink in Skagway

It can be an Alaska cruise mistake to not eat or drink in the ports of call. Consider having lunch or a local beer at one of the family owned restaurants.

Skagway Brewing Company is a popular favorite for locals, cruise travelers and cruise ship crew. Try a pint of Spruce Tip Ale for a unique taste of this Alaska beer.

The Red Onion Saloon is another popular restaurant in Skagway. Originally established in 1898 as a bordello for lonely gold miners during the Klondike gold rush era, the Red Onion Saloon is a historic landmark in Skagway. Now, you can grab a bite to eat while visiting the on-site brothel museum.

What is the best time of year to visit Skagway?

Skagway has the mildest weather of any port town in Southeast Alaska, so it is a pleasure to visit any time during cruise season. The best time of year to visit is in July or August when the majority of shops and excursions are in full operation and the weather tends to be the driest.

How far is downtown Skagway from the cruise port?

Downtown Skagway is a quick walk from the cruise port. There are four different ports available for cruise ships to dock in Skagway. Depending on which port your ship is docked in, the walk from the cruise port to downtown Skagway is between half to three quarters of a mile long.

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Final Thoughts On Things to do in Skagway Cruise Port

The charming port town of Skagway, Alaska lets cruise passengers step back in time to gold rush days through exciting excursions. Whether you walk through a historical museum, try your hand at panning gold or explore nature, this port will be a memorable stop on your Alaska cruise.

In this post, I shared a complete guide of the 20 best things to do in Skagway Alaska when you’re on a cruise.

Have you been to Skagway on a cruise? Please let me know what you enjoyed most in the comments below.

Happy Cruising!

If you found this article helpful, please pass it along. Please feel free to share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

Author Bio:

Stephanie Yrungaray grew up in gorgeous Eagle River, Alaska and now calls Utah her beUtahful home. She enjoys traveling and exploring with her husband and five kids any way she can, from cruising to RV camping and everything in-between! When she’s not out exploring, you’ll find her writing about travel, finances and parenting as well as gift ideas on her website, www.TheGiftyGirl.com .

Cruise Guide: 15 Tips and Things to Do in Skagway, Alaska

It’s hard to imagine a more “Alaskan” port than sailing into Skagway. When you think of the state, you likely imagine small, remote, rustic towns that sit in the middle of soaring mountains.

That’s exactly what you get in Skagway.

It served as a hub during the Klondike Gold Rush, but today has transformed into a major tourist destination that plays up the historic charm for cruise ship passengers. All of it is packed into a valley between soaring mountains that has to be seen to be believed.

If it’s your first time visiting the port of call, then there is plenty that you should know before you arrive to make the most of your time. From what to do in Skagway to tips on getting around, we have everything you want to know for visiting the Alaskan port….

Skagway’s Claim to Fame Was a Jumping Off Point for the Gold Rush

Wondering just exactly what a town is doing in such a remote spot, surrounded by nothing by mountains and water? The answer is gold.

In the late 1800s, gold was discovered in the Yukon — a place that to this day can be difficult to reach. While there were several routes there, sailing to Skagway and then making the trek over the White Pass through the mountains was a popular way.

As prospectors flooded in, the town grew. But then, as the gold rush quickly died down, the population plummeted from thousands to just hundreds. With the rise in popularity of cruises, however, Skagway has started to enjoy a second life.

Skagway Today Is Definitely a Tourist Town

If you visit Skagway and find it has a different feel than some of the other ports in Alaska, you aren’t alone. In our opinion, many ports are towns that also cater tourists. Skagway is more of a tourist town.

The entire downtown area revolves around cruise ship tourism. In many ways, that’s a great thing as it’s easy to get around, there’s plenty to do and see, and nearly every storefront caters to tourists, such as souvenir shops, restaurants, and breweries .

On the other hand, if you’re looking for what life is like in current Alaska, it’s not a great example. Even so, the scenery makes the port a great spot to visit.

It’s One of the Most Stunning Ports You’ll See (And You Won’t Believe It Until You See It)

Every port you visit in Alaska will have some dramatic scenery and landscape. But perhaps nowhere is as stunning as Skagway. Honestly, no matter how many pictures or videos you see, it won’t do it justice.

That landscape is due to Skagway’s location. It sits at the end of a narrow channel of water, meaning in one direction is the channel and the entire rest of the spot is surrounded by mountains. Even coming in on a cruise ship — which is normally the largest structure around for miles — you are completely dwarfed by the natural landscape.

Hungry? Try a Klondike Doughboy

What the heck is a Klondike Doughboy? It might be the tastiest thing in Skagway, even if it’s not the best for you.

On 3rd Avenue, there is a storefront called Alaskan Fry Bread which is home to the Klondike Doughboy. The pastry is essentially a dinner-plate-sized piece of sweet dough deep-fried and then sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar. Think of it as a massive donut or funnel cake. It’s served on paper towels (not even a paper plate!), and you simply walk around town chowing down on it.

Truth be told, the Klondike Doughboy is delicious (and only costs $7!), but it’s large enough to feed 2-3 adults. And it’s definitely not something you want to overeat.

There Are 3 Different Cruise Docks, Accommodating 4 Ships

For such a small town, Skagway can handle a significant number of ships. In fact, the three different cruise docks (Ore Dock, Broadway Dock, and Railroad Dock) accommodate four ships, meaning that there can be potentially 10,000 cruise passengers — or more — during a single day.

During our stop, we noticed Disney at the Ore Dock (which is furthest west in the port), Holland America at the middle Broadway Dock, and Princess and Royal Caribbean at the easternmost Railroad dock. The good news is that all the docks have paths leading right into town, with easy walks.

Look at the “Painted Rock” Time Capsule

If you dock on the easternmost docks in Skagway, then you’ll be right next to what amounts to a time capsule done in paint. It’s seemingly become a tradition for a ship to have an area painted on the rocks that rise above the pier when they come to visit.

You’ll see paintings from Carnival, NCL, Holland America and more. We saw some markings going all the way back to 1982 — 40 years ago. Each one marks the occasion when a ship visited the port.

What will really pique your interest is wondering how some of these were painted. They can rise 20 or 30 feet above the water on a steep rock face.

Take a Ride on the White Pass & Yukon Route Rail

If there is one excursion that’s most popular in Skagway, then it has to be taking a scenic ride on the railway. Skagway was an important jumping off point to head to the Yukon over the White Pass during the Klondike Gold Rush. In just a few years, however, a railway was built to make that trip easier.

Well, today you can now ride the rails on a scenic route that takes about three hours and carries you up into the mountains. You get some of the most postcard-worthy vistas you can imagine as the train heads along the pass.

It is a bit pricey — around $135 per adult — but you can’t do this anywhere else in the world. You can book an excursion through your cruise line or just head to the ticket office when you get off the ship. The station is right by the cruise docks, so you can’t miss it.

Walking to Town? Look for the Shapes to Tell You the Right Way

Skagway is extremely easy to navigate. It’s only about 10 minutes to walk from the ship to town, and it’s laid out largely in a grid. Plus, you can see the ships easily from town as a landmark.

Even so, if you’re worried about finding your way, then there’s a navigation tool to help you. Along the walkways between the ship and town are colored shapes painted on the path. Each dock has a different shape (purple square, orange circle, blue triangle, and red circle). So as you get close to the ships, just look for the shape that corresponds with your pier. Follow it and you’ll easily be able to find your way back.

Don’t Want to Walk? There’s a $3 Shuttle to Town

Heading into town is a bit of a walk — about 10-15 minutes depending on which spot your ship is docked. If you don’t want to walk, then you’re in luck.

In a town the size of Skagway, there isn’t a big transportation network. However, there is a “SMART Bus” (more of a shuttle, really) that picks up and drops off at points around town, including the pier. The cost is $3 for a one-way ride into town or $5 for an all-day pass.

We’d suggest the $5 pass as you’ll see markers all around town where it stops, providing a ride for folks that don’t want to or can’t easily walk.

This May Be the Farthest North You Ever Travel

For many people, visiting Skagway may be a memorable spot because it is the farthest north they will ever venture on the planet. The town sits about 59.5 degrees north — the same latitude as the southernmost point of Greenland, and well north of most of Europe.

And with every step you take into town (and especially if you take a train ride through White Pass), then you are setting a new record for the farthest north you’ve been.

We personally took a walk through the town and before we turned around the head back to the ship, took a picture of the spot realizing that we may never reach a point that far north on the planet again.

Don’t Forget to Mail a Postcard (But It Might Take a While to Arrive)

If you want to write to someone back home, then Skagway offers the perfect opportunity. Stores around the town sell all sorts of postcards along with stamps, with pictures of everything from wildlife to mountains, cruise ships, and more.

After you write your note, then you can drop the cards in the mailbox at the Skagway Post Office. It’s located at the corner of 6th Avenue and Broadway, at the farthest edge of all the historic buildings in the main part of town.

Just know that due to the location, it can take more than a week for your card to arrive, depending on where it is headed.

Interested in Learning About the Gold Rush? Head Here…

As mentioned, Skagway was a starting point for many as they headed to find gold in the Klondike. If you’re interested in this history (which the town revolves around), then head to the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park Visitor Center. Operated by the National Park Service, this spot tells the history of the gold rush. There’s a museum with photos and artifacts from the era, along with a video that explains the time in more detail.

It doesn’t take long to go through and it will give you a greater appreciation for what so many people went through in hopes of striking it rich. The center is located at 2nd Avenue and Broadway, right as you enter town.

Head on a Helicopter Tour to Glaciers

Want something that’s uniquely Alaskan? What about taking a helicopter ride to go land on and explore a glacier? We can think of nowhere else that it’s possible but here.

When you arrive to Skagway, you may notice that there are helicopters constantly heading in and out of the area. There’s an airport right near the cruise ports. From there, you can catch a ride on a helicopter that will take you out to nearby glaciers. After the ride over, you’ll actually land and be able to walk on the glacier itself.

Just know that prices are expensive. The two-hour tour runs about $340 per adult for the once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Want a Little Nature in Town? Try the Pullen Creek StreamWalk

Skagway features stunning natural surroundings. No matter which way you turn, there are gorgeous mountains. If you really want to enjoy the beauty without going far, then look for the Pullen Creek StreamWalk.

This small walking trail with park is located between the docks and the town, so you’ll pass by as you leave the ship. It has a small pond and a stream, along with some grassy areas to sit and enjoy.

In other words, if you want a pretty place to relax with a crystal-clear Alaskan stream, this is it.

Visit the Red Onion Saloon for a Bite, Drink, and a Peek at the Naughty Side of Skagway

It’s a little hard to explain exactly what the Red Onion Saloon is, but you likely don’t want to miss it. Set in a historic building by the cruise piers, you’ll no doubt pass it heading into town.

Inside, it plays up Skagway’s past. You can grab a drink or a bite to eat, but 120 years ago it also served as a bordello. Today it features not just food and drink in a lively atmosphere but upstairs is also a brothel museum. Staff also play a part in the history, dressed up as “madams” as they provide tours.

The Red Onion does suggest that “parents and guardians should use their discretion as tour material is a tad risque…”

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10 Awesome Things to Do in Skagway Cruise Port (+ Port Info)

Planning your Alaska cruise and wondering about the best things to do in Skagway cruise port?

Nestled in the northernmost point of the Inside Passage in Southeast Alaska, Skagway, the capital of Yukon (Canada), is one of the most popular Alaskan ports offering stunning landscapes and a wide variety of activities.

The Alaskan cruise itinerary normally includes stops at both Juneau (167 km/104 miles south of Skagway) and Skagway and then from Skagway, there is a ferry available over to Haines, another incredible city in Alaska. In this Skagway cruise travel guide, read about:

Skagway cruise port (Skagway cruise terminal, getting around the port)
10 awesome things to do in Skagway port & popular Skagway shore excursions

Visit also our cruise port guides to Juneau , Halifax , Galveston , Boston , Vancouver

Skagway Cruise Port

The port of Skagway consists of three cruise terminals or docks: Broadway Dock (situated at the end of Broadway), Ore Dock (located at the end of Main Street), and Railroad Dock (at the southern edge of the town).

At the end of Broadway, there is also a ferry dock that can accommodate smaller ships. All the docks are located within a short walking distance from downtown Skagway.

The main Broadway dock can accommodate up to 3 large cruise ships simultaneously. In that case, if your ship docked the last, please consider a minimum of 10 minutes of walking to reach the end of the pier where the entrance to the port is located.

The pier is long and flat with nothing except for small cars offering free transportation (mainly for people with mobility issues) to the end of the pier based on a schedule with limited availability. Each car can accommodate between 2-4 passengers at a time.

Skagway cruise port - aerial view - Alaska

Getting Around Skagway Port

Skagway is a small town with only 1100 inhabitants. The pier and downtown area are flat, making it accessible for people with walking difficulties/wheelchair users.
There is no taxi service in Skagway, as everything is within walking distance.
If you are into sightseeing, you can take the Street Car Tour which runs from a pier a few times daily for an extra fee.
Public S.M.A.R.T. shuttle buses are available at the end of the pier and they run on a specific schedule. They are white and blue, and you will find their bus stops all over town at the blue and white poles. These shuttle buses run in a loop every 20-30 minutes and include stops around the town, including Gold Rush Cemetery and Jewell Gardens. Wheelchair-accessible buses are available (with a ramp).
Keep in mind that the weather in Skagway may change so bring suitable clothing and be prepared for showers during the day.
A red booth is available at the end of the pier – this is the main tour booth for all cruise ships in port on that day. All guests from the cruise ship with a tour prepaid or booked onboard normally have their meeting time by the booth or at the end of the pier/entrance in the port (however, always double-check the tour’s meeting location/time indicated on your tour ticket).
Next to the red booth, one small shop sells souvenirs and a great Alaskan coffee not to be missed. There are no toilets available on the pier (they are only available downtown for an extra fee), and no free wi-fi available unless you purchase an item in specific locations downtown where you will receive code access.
The tourist information office that provides local maps is located on downtown’s main street, within a short walking distance from the end of the pier.
A few minutes’ walk from the end of the pier, you will spot White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad train station , offering the most incredible sightseeing train ride in the world. In case you book this tour on board, follow the instructions on your ticket as the train normally picks you up in front of the ship (so you don’t need to walk to the train station).
Major cruise lines sailing to Skagway Alaska include Seabourn Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises.
Explore Skagway tours and activities

10 Awesome Things to Do in Skagway Cruise Port

1. downtown skagway.

The downtown has one main street where you can find numerous souvenir shops, authentic handicrafts, jewelry stores (Tanzanite International, Effy Jewelry, Diamonds International..), liquor stores, shops selling winter outfits with brands like North Face, Colombia, and a few others.

Also, Skagway Port is one of the best ports for dining ashore, so if you love seafood this is the perfect place for you! Downtown, you’ll find a variety of bars, restaurants, and takeout places offering delicious grilled salmon, King Crab legs, and other local dishes.

Coming to highlights of Skagway downtown, the most photographed building is located on the main street: Arctic Brotherhood Hall (A.B.Hall), a historic, unusual-looking building that housed a club formed in 1899 by a group of gold prospectors who arrived in Skagway to set off for the Klondike gold fields seeking fortune. The building is now home to the Skagway Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Arctic Brotherhood Hall in Skagway cruise port

There are also a few other museums, such as the Trail of ’98 Museum (Skagway Museum), a small museum housed in an 1898 building featuring a great collection of artifacts showcasing the history of Skagway and the everyday life of its first settlers.

Housed in a historic Golden North Hotel, Corrington’s Alaskan Ivory Museum is another museum worth your attention, as it contains one of Alaska’s best collections of ivory art. The entrance is free of charge.

Another popular downtown attraction is a very famous excursion called Ghost & Goodtime Girls , a historic walking tour of the downtown guided by professional actresses dressed up in Klondike-style clothing.

The tour normally starts at the end of the pier and finishes at Red Onion Brothel Museum , with a champagne toast and visits to the rooms of the ancient brothel. The tour guides are very informative and you get to learn about the history of the Gold Rush and how the Goodtime girls survived during the late 1890s. Get more information on the Red Onion Saloon website

2. Gold Panning at Alaska 360

Alaska 360 , known as Dredge Town, is one of the most popular attractions near Skagway downtown located approximately 15 minutes drive from the end of the port Skagway.

This incredible place surrounded by mountains allows you to immerse yourself in the Klondike Gold Rush era, and learn the history of mining from the days of the Gold Rush up to the present day. You get to learn about modern sled dog racing, see Iditarod sled dogs and learn what it’s like to be a musher!

Visitors can experience the chill of being on the Iditarod trail in 40-below temperatures in the Museum below 40 , see the Northern Lights simulation, and learn the art of gold panning after which you get a chance to pan for gold and keep everything you find (what a souvenir!).

You will tour the authentic gold dredge weighing 350 tons used for placer gold mining in the Yukon, and to top off your day, enjoy lunch and beer at the onsite restaurant and brewery. The staff are dressed up in traditional costumes which makes the whole experience unique and unforgettable!

Check out gold panning tours in Skagway downtown

Gold Panning at Alaska 360 - Skagway cruise port

3. Jewell Gardens

Jewell Gardens is located 10 minutes’ drive from the Skagway cruise port, on Klondike Highway, a little bit outside the downtown area.

The gardens boast an impressive selection of vegetables, blooming wildflowers, and inspiring glass garden installations. You can tour the garden on your own or a guided tour. To top off your day you can enjoy lunch and tea in the restaurant where the food is prepared fresh using organic ingredients from the garden!

Check out Jewell Gardens tours and activities

4. Klondike Gold Rush National Park

Skagway is known as the gateway to the Klondike, a region of the Yukon in northwest Canada lying east of the Alaskan border, a symbol of 1890’s gold rush days when over 100.000 fortune seekers came to pan for gold in Klondike Gold Fields.

Tucked between the mountains and the sea, Skagway became an entry port and home to over 20.000 prospectors who made Skagway their home in the following years.

Yukon Territory (Canada) - Klondike Gold Rush National Park

Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park covers a large area that protects the memory of these days, preserving the trails (a 33-mile long Chilkoot Trail, known as the “meanest” one, is among the most popular ones), towns (Skagway, Dawson City), and buildings of the gold rush era.

There are two ways to reach the White Pass Summit (aka Klondike Summit): by train and by motorcoach.

If you choose to go by motorcoach/car, you get to ride along Klondike Highway that runs parallel to the “White Pass and Yukon Route Rail Road” up to the 3,290-foot-high White Pass Summit in St. Elias Range.

Along the way, you will take in awe-inspiring sceneries of snow-capped mountains and glaciers, scenic vistas, and incredible sights including Dead Horse Trail, the old Brackett Wagon Road, Pitchfork Falls, and Moore Bridge. You’ll make stops at stunning viewpoints allowing you to take unique pictures, while your tour guide tells you about the history of the region and the Klondike Gold Rush era.

To reach Klondike Summit it will take approximately 90 minutes driving each way. An original passport is required as you’ll be crossing into Canada. This experience is not wheelchair friendly; it is considered moderate to strenuous, and walking shoes and a wind/ water-resistant jacket are recommended.

Explore Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park tours

5. White Pass and Yukon Route Scenic Railway

The epic train ride is a must-do for those coming to Skagway for the first time! This spectacular journey combines history and nature, as you get to discover Alaska’s stunning sceneries while learning about the Klondike gold rush that took place here on the border of Canada and the United States at the end of the 19th century.

In 1898, one year after the gold was found in Yukon, the investors started the construction of the narrow-gauge railroad to build the route from Skagway to Yukon’s goldfields. Built within three years, the iron trail was an engineering marvel as the route led through the region’s dramatic, rugged mountainous terrain.

Today, visitors can travel back in time by taking a train ride up to the 3,290-foot-high White Pass Summit and admire the fascinating glaciers, waterfalls, mountains, suspension bridges, rivers, lakes, and wildlife sightings.

The train ride lasts around 1 hour and 45 minutes and depending on the tour you choose, you get to see famous attractions such as the breathtaking Bridal Veil Falls, the Gold Rush Cemetery, Tormented Valley, the Skagway Scenic Overlook, and Yukon Suspension Bridge.

The train ride is suitable for guests using a wheelchair, walker, or motorized scooter. The restrooms are available onboard the train. For this excursion, the original passport is required as the tour crosses into Canada and back into the U.S.

Explore White Pass & Yukon Route Railway tours and activities

6. Musher’s Camp and Dog Sledding Adventure

Dog Sledding is one of the most unique experiences that you can get in Alaska! You can choose between a land excursion that normally goes to one of the musher’s camps in either Yukon or the historic town of Dyea, or you can choose a dog sledding experience by flight to Denver/Norris Glacier.

If you opt for a land dog sledding experience, you will join a ride through the beautiful Alaskan goldfields, countryside, and forests before heading to Musher’s Camp where a professional Musher teaches you about the history of this famous Alaskan sport and dogsledding techniques.

At the end of the experience, you get to cuddle adorable huskies willing to pose for a photo with you!

Explore Musher’s Camp and Dog Sledding tours and activities

7. Dog Sledding and Denver Glacier Flightseeing

If your budget allows you, get ready for the spectacular helicopter ride across endless snow-blanketed fields, ice-capped mountain peaks, dense Alaskan forests, and breathtaking glaciers!

After a 20-minute flight, you will visit Dog Sled Camp, standing atop Denver Glacier, where you’ll be welcomed by professional Iditarod Dog Racing mushers and the beautiful huskies waiting to take you on a thrilling ride across the snowfields surrounded by mountains and glaciers of stunning beauty.

The base for the flight is located approximately 5 to 7 minutes walk from the end of the pier. The flight can accommodate a maximum of 4 passengers at a time depending on their weight, one person may stay in the middle back seat.

Wear closed-toe shoes, a warm rain jacket and bring binoculars . No bags are allowed on a ride (there are lockers available). Make sure you have your camera on you, as you will want to capture this unique moment.

Denver Glacier Dog Sledding - Skagway cruise port

8. Grizzly Falls Zipline

Located around a 35-minute drive from Skagway cruise port each way, in the town of Dyea, this fantastic adventure park offers thrilling rides, unforgettable fun, and spectacular views!

Upon arriving at a base camp, you’ll board a shuttle truck that will take you on a bumpy ride to the zipline starting point. After you receive a briefing and safety gear, you’ll start your race through gigantic spruce and cedars of the Alaskan rainforest, while admiring the awe-inspiring views of the Tongass National Forest, glacially-fed waterfalls, mountain peaks, and surrounding wilderness.

Skagway Grizzly Falls Zipline - Suspension bridge

Walk on raised balance beams, enjoy eleven ziplines across waterfalls, and cross four suspension bridges on this adrenaline-packed outdoor activity.

Tips : Make sure you check the availability and specific requirements before booking, as weight restrictions apply. Lockers are available for an extra fee (cash only). The helmet and all the equipment will be provided, however, make sure you dress comfortably and bring bug repellent .

Explore Grizzly Falls Zipline tours and activities

9. Kroschel Wildlife Refuge

This fascinating wildlife refuge is located approximately a 1-hour drive from Heines, known for its breathtaking natural sceneries, wildlife, and a wide variety of outdoor activities.

To get to the Kroschel Wildlife Refuge, you need to catch an early morning ferry from Skagway to Haines and ride approximately 45 minutes each way. Once in Haines, tourists will board an organized bus for their tour and ride approximately 1 hour each way to Kroschel Park.

Kroschel Wildlife Refuge in Heines, Skagway (Alaska)

The refuge offers unique and incredible opportunities for up-close and personal experiences with over 15 species of Alaskan wildlife, including moose, grizzly bear, wolf, lynx, fox, reindeer, porcupine, snowy owl, wolverine, and more!

The tours of the refuge are guided and the visit usually lasts up to two hours. You get the chance to touch animals, kiss a moose, or watch a Kodiak bear play in her pool. The location has facilities and a souvenir shop.

If you are visiting the refuge independently, make sure you make the reservation in advance, but if you are coming on a tour, everything (including transfer) is normally organized for you. Read more about the refuge on the Kroschel Wildlife Refuge website .

10. Ocean Raft & Wildlife Sightings

Get ready for a beautiful, scenic boat ride through the 90-mile-long Lynn Canal, the deepest fjord in North America and one of the longest fjords in the world. On this spectacular journey, you’ll be able to see waterfalls, secluded coves, rocky beaches, eagles, harbor seals, maybe even whales, and other Alaskan wildlife!

Of course, you need to consider your medical background for this activity, and no pregnant women are allowed to participate as it is a speed boat and it could be partially bumpy.

This activity is running in small groups and has very limited availability, so make sure you book a tour in advance. Keep in mind that the weather changes a lot, so make sure you bring warm clothes or a rain jacket .

Explore Skagway ocean raft and boat tours

Read more in detail about how to prepare for Alaskan cruise in Alaskan Cruise Guide

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2 thoughts on “10 Awesome Things to Do in Skagway Cruise Port (+ Port Info)”

Can you tell me what year (and month too if known) the second photo looking at the railroad dock is from?

Hi Kaitlyn! It’s my friend’s photo as she used to work a few seasons in Skagway. I am not sure about the year, but it was definitely before the pandemic started.

Cruise Port Skagway Alaska: Best Things to Do & Schedule

Posted on Last updated: September 10, 2023

Are you ready for an adventure like no other on Alaska cruises ? Look no further than Skagway, Alaska – a hidden gem nestled in the heart of southeast Alaska.

Skagway is more than just a stop on your itinerary; it’s a gateway to the legendary Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park .

As it winds through rugged mountains and stunning landscapes, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. With that being said, grab your free cruise planner , and let’s explore the beautiful cruise port Skagway Alaska!

Port of Skagway Schedule and Itineraries

The Port of Skagway, known for its dock and railroad, is a bustling hub for cruise ships during the summer season. It attracts numerous visitors with its stunning natural beauty and rich history, jam-packed with enriching excursions on Alaska cruises .

If you’re planning a cruise to Alaska, chances are Skagway, with its carnival and park service, will be on your itinerary. Let’s take a closer look at the schedule and itineraries offered by major cruise lines.

Welcoming Cruise Ships and Itineraries

Skagway is a popular destination for several major cruise lines, including Carnival, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, and Norwegian Cruise Line.

These renowned companies have recognized the allure of this Alaskan gem and incorporated it into their routes. With such reputable names offering trips to Skagway, you can rest assured that your ship will dock at this national park and your journey will be well-planned and enjoyable.

Convenient Docking Locations

When you arrive in Skagway, most cruises dock at either Broadway Dock or Ore Dock near downtown Skagway. This strategic positioning allows passengers easy access to all the attractions this charming town has to offer, including the pier and carnival.

As soon as you step off the ship, you’ll find yourself immersed in the scenic beauty of Alaska’s national park. Photo credit: [insert photo credit here].

Ample Time for Exploration

Ships typically spend around 6 to 8 hours at the Skagway pier, giving passengers plenty of time to explore both the town itself and its surrounding wonders.

Whether you prefer strolling through historic streets lined with colorful buildings or embarking on exciting shore excursions at the carnival, there’s something for everyone in Skagway. Photo credit: [insert photographer’s name].

Skagway, a port of call for many cruise lines like Carnival, offers an array of activities suitable for all interests. History buffs can delve into the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park or hop aboard the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway for a journey back in time.

Nature enthusiasts can embark on breathtaking hikes along trails like Chilkoot Trail or soak up the awe-inspiring views from nearby glaciers. (Photo credit: Carnival)

Combining Skagway with Other Alaskan Ports

One of the advantages of visiting Skagway is that it often forms part of a broader itinerary that includes other popular Alaskan ports like Juneau and Ketchikan.

This allows you to experience the diversity and beauty of Alaska in one trip, providing a comprehensive exploration of this remarkable state. Additionally, you can capture stunning ship photos at the pier’s end.

In Juneau, the capital city of Alaska, you can witness majestic glaciers up close or take a helicopter ride to soar over ice fields. At the end of the pier, capture a stunning photo of the breathtaking scenery. Ketchikan, known as the “Salmon Capital of the World,” offers opportunities for fishing enthusiasts and those seeking cultural experiences with its rich Native American heritage.

By combining Skagway with these other destinations, you can make the end of your cruise an unforgettable adventure filled with breathtaking sights and unique experiences.

Top Attractions in Skagway Cruise Port

Experience the rich history at the red onion saloon.

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the fascinating history of the Klondike Gold Rush at The Red Onion Saloon, an iconic establishment that was once a notorious brothel but has now been transformed into a captivating museum and bar.

As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by the vintage decor that transports you to the bustling days of the gold rush era. Experience the end of an era firsthand.

Explore the various rooms of The Red Onion Saloon to learn about Skagway’s colorful past. Each room is filled with artifacts and memorabilia that offer a glimpse into the lives of courageous women who worked there. Informative displays share their stories.

The knowledgeable staff will regale you with tales of fortune seekers, lawmen, and gamblers who frequented this historic venue until the end.

After immersing yourself in history, head to the bar area at the end where you can enjoy a refreshing drink while surrounded by an authentic atmosphere.

Sip on a handcrafted cocktail or sample local beers as you soak up the ambiance of this unique establishment. Whether you’re interested in history or simply looking for an unforgettable experience, The Red Onion Saloon is not to be missed during your visit to Skagway.

Discover Beauty and Sustainability at Jewell Gardens

Escape into a world of natural beauty at Jewell Gardens, where vibrant flower gardens await your exploration. Located just minutes away from Skagway’s cruise port, this enchanting attraction offers a serene retreat amidst breathtaking landscapes. Stroll through meticulously manicured gardens adorned with an array of colorful blooms, creating a picturesque backdrop for memorable photos.

But Jewell Gardens is more than just a feast for the eyes; it also serves as an educational hub promoting sustainable farming practices. Take part in guided tours that provide insights into organic gardening techniques and environmentally friendly approaches to horticulture. Learn about composting methods used to enrich the soil and discover how the gardens contribute to the local community’s food production.

For a hands-on experience, join one of the workshops offered at Jewell Gardens. Try your hand at creating floral arrangements or learn about vegetable gardening from expert instructors. You can even savor farm-to-table cuisine at their on-site restaurant, where fresh ingredients harvested from the gardens are transformed into delicious dishes.

Step Back in Time at Trail of ’98 Museum

Immerse yourself in the captivating history of Skagway’s gold rush era by visiting the Trail of ’98 Museum. This unique museum showcases a vast collection of artifacts that offer a glimpse into the lives of prospectors who braved treacherous conditions in search of fortune. As you wander through its exhibits, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and hardships faced by those who embarked on this arduous journey.

Discover firsthand accounts and personal stories that bring this significant period to life. Marvel at authentic photographs, maps, and tools used during the gold rush as you delve into tales of perseverance, determination, and adventure. The museum also features interactive displays that allow visitors to experience what life was like for prospectors during this tumultuous time.

The Trail of ’98 Museum is not only an educational experience but also an opportunity to appreciate Skagway’s rich heritage. Gain insights into how this small town played a crucial role in shaping Alaska’s history while exploring its fascinating exhibits.

Witness Nature’s Splendor at Lower Reid Falls

Embark on a short hike from downtown Skagway to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of Lower Reid Falls. Nestled amidst lush greenery, these cascading waterfalls provide a breathtaking spectacle that will leave you mesmerized. As you make your way along the trail, listen to nature’s symphony as birds chirp and leaves rustle underfoot.

Upon reaching Lower Reid Falls, prepare to be captivated by its sheer power and the mesmerizing sound of rushing water. Stand in awe as the falls cascade down, creating a misty atmosphere that adds to the enchantment of the surroundings. Take a moment to immerse yourself in nature’s tranquility and capture stunning photographs of this natural wonder.

For those seeking a more immersive experience, venture closer to the falls on a guided kayak tour or enjoy a peaceful picnic amidst the serene beauty. Lower Reid Falls is not only a picturesque spot but also an opportunity to connect with nature and rejuvenate your senses during your visit to Skagway.

Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park

Step back in time as you explore the preserved buildings and artifacts from the klondike gold rush era..

Imagine stepping into a time machine that transports you back to the late 19th century, amidst the frenzy of the Klondike Gold Rush. At Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, this captivating experience becomes a reality. As you wander through the park, you’ll encounter meticulously preserved buildings and artifacts that offer a glimpse into the lives of those who sought their fortune in Alaska’s goldfields.

The park serves as a living museum, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in history. Stroll along Broadway Street on a self-guided walking tour and marvel at beautifully restored structures that once housed bustling saloons, shops, and hotels. Each building tells its own story, whispering tales of excitement, hardship, and determination. You can almost hear echoes of prospectors eagerly discussing their dreams of striking it rich.

Join a ranger-led tour to learn about the hardships faced by prospectors who journeyed to Alaska in search of gold.

To truly understand the challenges faced by gold seekers during the Klondike Gold Rush, join one of the ranger-led tours available at Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. These knowledgeable guides will take you on an immersive journey through time, recounting stories of perseverance and struggle.

As you walk alongside these rangers, they will regale you with tales of treacherous journeys along the infamous Chilkoot Trail or White Pass Trail. They’ll explain how prospectors endured harsh weather conditions and grueling physical exertion while carrying their supplies over rugged terrain. Through their vivid storytelling, you’ll gain insight into just how much determination was required to pursue elusive golden dreams.

Visit the visitor center for interactive exhibits that provide insights into the lives of those who participated in this historic event.

The visitor center at Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park is a treasure trove of information, offering interactive exhibits that bring the stories of the gold rush era to life. Step inside and find yourself surrounded by displays that transport you back in time.

Engage with hands-on exhibits that allow you to experience the thrill of panning for gold or try your hand at packing a backpack like a seasoned prospector. Discover the personal stories of individuals who embarked on this adventure, their hopes, dreams, and struggles vividly depicted through photographs, artifacts, and multimedia presentations.

Take a self-guided walking tour along Broadway Street to see restored buildings that once housed saloons, shops, and hotels.

Broadway Street in Skagway is not just an ordinary street; it’s an open-air museum showcasing the architectural remnants of the Klondike Gold Rush. Embark on a self-guided walking tour along this historic thoroughfare and be transported back in time.

As you stroll past restored buildings that were once vibrant saloons, bustling shops, and grand hotels, it’s easy to imagine the lively atmosphere that permeated these streets during the gold rush era. Listen closely as each building whispers tales of wild nights filled with laughter, camaraderie, and perhaps even secret business dealings.

The park offers scenic hiking trails, including the Chilkoot Trail where you can follow in the footsteps of gold seekers.

For those seeking a more immersive experience within Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park’s natural surroundings, lace up your hiking boots and embark on one of its scenic trails. One such trail is the legendary Chilkoot Trail – an iconic route taken by thousands of gold seekers in search of fortune.

Following in their footsteps along this historic path allows you to connect with their spirit of adventure while marveling at awe-inspiring landscapes. Traverse rugged terrain through dense forests and across mountain passes as you retrace their arduous journey. Along the way, keep an eye out for remnants of the past, such as abandoned campsites and discarded equipment. The Chilkoot Trail offers an opportunity to experience the physical challenges faced by those who pursued their dreams in the Klondike goldfields.

Scenic White Pass Railway Tours

If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable experience in Skagway, Alaska, then hop on board one of the scenic White Pass Railway tours. This iconic train journey takes you through some of the most breathtaking mountain landscapes in all of Alaska. Get ready to be captivated by stunning panoramic views, traverse steep cliffs and deep gorges, and immerse yourself in the rich history of this historic railroad.

Embark on a Breathtaking Train Journey

Embarking on a White Pass Railway tour is like stepping into a postcard. As you settle into your vintage railcar, get ready to be awestruck by the beauty that surrounds you. The train winds its way through the rugged terrain of Alaska’s mountains, offering uninterrupted views of snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and cascading waterfalls.

The highlight of the journey is reaching the famous White Pass Summit. At an elevation of 2,865 feet (873 meters), this vantage point provides an unparalleled view of the surrounding landscape. You’ll feel like you’re on top of the world as you take in the vastness of nature around you.

Learn About Klondike Gold Rush History

One of the fascinating aspects of the White Pass Railway is its connection to the Klondike Gold Rush. During your journey, knowledgeable guides will regale you with captivating stories about how this railway played a crucial role during that historic era.

You’ll learn about the challenges faced by prospectors as they made their way to the goldfields and gain insight into how this engineering marvel was constructed against all odds. It’s not just a train ride; it’s an opportunity to step back in time and relive an important chapter in Alaskan history.

Capture Incredible Photos at Scenic Spots

As you travel along the route, there are several picturesque spots where you can capture incredible photos to cherish forever. Keep your camera ready as you pass by Bridal Veil Falls, where the water cascades down the cliffside like a delicate veil. The sight is simply breathtaking and offers a perfect opportunity to snap some awe-inspiring shots.

Another notable spot along the route is Dead Horse Gulch. This hauntingly beautiful location tells a dark tale from the past. It got its name during the Klondike Gold Rush when exhausted horses were abandoned here and left to perish. Today, it serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by those who sought their fortunes in this rugged wilderness.

A Must-Do Experience in Skagway

A visit to Skagway would be incomplete without experiencing the White Pass Railway tour. This iconic adventure attracts visitors from all over the world who come to witness its natural beauty and immerse themselves in its history.

Whether you choose a standard train ride or opt for a private tour, this scenic journey promises an unforgettable experience for passengers of all ages. The White Pass Railway is not just a mode of transportation; it’s an opportunity to connect with nature, learn about Alaska’s past, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

So, if you find yourself in Skagway, don’t miss out on this incredible railway adventure. Hop aboard and let the White Pass Railway transport you through time and into the heart of Alaska’s majestic landscapes.

Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, Ziplining, and Wildlife Sightings

Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable outdoor adventure in Skagway, Alaska? Get ready to immerse yourself in the pristine wilderness and experience the thrill of hiking, ziplining, and wildlife sightings. From breathtaking vistas of mountains, glaciers, and waterfalls to heart-pounding zipline courses that offer bird’s-eye views of the surrounding landscape, Skagway has it all for outdoor enthusiasts.

Explore Skagway’s Pristine Wilderness

Prepare to be amazed by the sheer beauty that awaits you. Lace up your boots and hit the trails as you venture into the untouched landscapes that define this region. As you ascend higher into the mountains, be prepared for jaw-dropping panoramic views that will leave you speechless. Imagine standing atop a ridge with snow-capped peaks stretching out before you and a crystal-clear waterfall cascading down nearby. These hikes are not just about reaching a destination; they are about immersing yourself in nature’s wonder.

One popular hike is the Dewey Lake Trail or its upper counterpart, Upper Dewey Lake Trail. These hidden gems offer serene settings where you can truly connect with nature. Picture yourself walking through lush forests filled with towering trees while breathing in the fresh mountain air. The trails wind their way around picturesque lakes where you can take a moment to relax or even try your hand at fishing if you’re feeling adventurous.

Soar Through Treetops on Zipline Courses

For those seeking an adrenaline rush like no other, ziplining in Skagway is an absolute must-do activity. Strap on your harness and get ready to soar through the treetops as you zip from platform to platform high above the ground. As you glide through the air at exhilarating speeds, take a moment to appreciate the incredible bird’s-eye views of the surrounding landscape. You’ll feel like you’re flying as you witness the beauty of Skagway’s mountains, forests, and rivers from a whole new perspective.

Whether you’re a seasoned zipliner or a first-timer, there are courses available for all skill levels. Professional guides will ensure your safety while providing an unforgettable experience. So why not check this thrilling adventure off your bucket list and create memories that will last a lifetime?

Wildlife Sightings: Nature’s Playground

Skagway is home to a diverse array of wildlife, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Keep your eyes peeled as you explore the great outdoors, as you never know what majestic creatures you might encounter along the way. From bald eagles soaring overhead to bears roaming through meadows, and even moose grazing near riversides, these wildlife encounters are truly awe-inspiring.

Take a guided tour with an experienced naturalist who can point out hidden animal habitats and provide fascinating insights into their behavior. Imagine spotting a seal sunbathing on rocks or catching a glimpse of playful otters splashing in the water. These encounters offer a rare opportunity to witness animals in their natural habitat and create lasting memories.

Skagway: A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Skagway’s natural beauty provides endless possibilities for outdoor enthusiasts seeking unforgettable experiences. Whether you choose to hike through breathtaking landscapes, soar through treetops on zipline courses, or embark on wildlife tours, this Alaskan gem has something for everyone.

So pack your bags, put on your hiking boots or harness, and get ready to immerse yourself in Skagway’s pristine wilderness. Experience the thrill of adventure while surrounded by awe-inspiring scenery that will leave you breathless. Don’t miss out on the chance to explore this outdoor paradise—it’s time to make memories that will last a lifetime!

Chilkoot Trail: A Historic Hiking Experience

Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure that will take you back in time? Lace up your hiking boots and get ready to follow in the footsteps of gold rush stampeders on the legendary Chilkoot Trail. This challenging 33-mile trail, which crosses into Canada’s Yukon Territory, offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in history while enjoying the beauty of nature.

Step into History

As you traverse the rugged terrain of the Chilkoot Trail, you’ll be transported back to the days of the Klondike Gold Rush. Picture yourself as one of the brave souls who ventured into these untamed lands in search of fortune. Along the way, you’ll pass by historic campsites and relics from a bygone era, providing glimpses into the lives and struggles of those who came before us.

The trail itself was once a lifeline for prospectors making their way to Dawson City. Stampeders would carry heavy loads of supplies up steep inclines, facing treacherous weather conditions and formidable challenges along their journey. Today, hikers can still see remnants of this rich history scattered throughout the trail, connecting with a time when dreams were big and chances were taken.

Breathtaking Scenery

Prepare to be awestruck by the breathtaking scenery that awaits you on the Chilkoot Trail. As you make your way through alpine meadows and dense forests, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife that call this area home. Majestic bald eagles soaring overhead, curious marmots scurrying across rocky outcrops – every step brings new wonders to behold.

One highlight along the trail is Pitchfork Falls, a magnificent waterfall cascading down moss-covered rocks. Take a moment to pause and marvel at its beauty as it tumbles gracefully into crystal-clear pools below. The sight and sound of this natural wonder will leave you feeling refreshed and inspired to continue your journey.

As you ascend towards the summit, be prepared for panoramic views that will take your breath away. Snow-capped peaks stretch as far as the eye can see, creating a backdrop of unparalleled beauty. It’s moments like these that remind us of the power and grandeur of nature, making every step on the Chilkoot Trail worth it.

Plan Your Adventure

Embarking on the Chilkoot Trail requires careful planning to ensure a safe and rewarding experience. Before setting off, make sure to obtain the necessary permits from Parks Canada and have a thorough understanding of trail conditions. The weather in this region can be unpredictable, so pack appropriate gear and clothing to stay comfortable throughout your trek.

Due to its challenging nature, it is recommended that hikers have previous backpacking experience before attempting the Chilkoot Trail. Physical fitness is also essential, as you’ll be covering long distances over varied terrain. Take time to train and prepare yourself physically for this demanding adventure.

To fully appreciate the history and significance of the trail, consider joining a guided tour or hiring a local guide. They can provide valuable insights into the gold rush era and share stories that bring the past to life. Traveling with others allows for shared experiences and camaraderie along the trail.

Connect with History in Nature

The Chilkoot Trail offers more than just an opportunity to hike; it provides a chance to connect with history while immersing yourself in nature’s wonders. As you walk in the footsteps of those who sought their fortunes during one of history’s most significant events, you’ll gain a newfound appreciation for their resilience and determination.

Imagine what it must have been like for those early pioneers: facing adversity at every turn yet pushing forward in pursuit of their dreams. Walking this trail allows us to reflect on our own journeys through life – reminding us that challenges are meant to be overcome and that the pursuit of our passions is a worthwhile endeavor.

So, if you’re seeking an adventure that combines history, natural beauty, and personal growth, look no further than the Chilkoot Trail. Strap on your backpack, take that first step into the past, and let the trail guide you to experiences you’ll treasure for a lifetime.

Dog Sledding and Musher’s Camp Adventures

Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure in Skagway, Alaska? Look no further than the thrilling dog sledding and Musher’s Camp experience. Get ready to embark on a journey through scenic trails, meet professional mushers, witness the incredible teamwork of sled dogs, and enjoy breathtaking views of mountains and forests. And don’t forget about the adorable husky puppies at Musher’s Camp!

Experience the Thrill of Dog Sledding

Dog sledding is not just a sport; it’s an integral part of Alaskan culture. When you visit Skagway, you have the opportunity to get a taste of this exhilarating activity firsthand. Strap in and hold on tight as you glide across snowy landscapes, pulled by a team of energetic sled dogs. Feel the rush as they navigate through twists and turns with remarkable agility.

As you ride through the picturesque trails, take a moment to soak in the beauty of your surroundings. The snow-capped mountains provide a stunning backdrop, while the towering forests create a sense of tranquility. This unique perspective allows you to appreciate Alaska’s natural wonders in an entirely new way.

Meet Professional Mushers and Their Team

At Musher’s Camp, you’ll have the chance to meet professional mushers who dedicate their lives to this traditional activity. These experienced guides will introduce you to their team of highly trained sled dogs and share their passion for dog sledding. They will regale you with tales from past expeditions, giving insight into what it takes to be a musher.

Witness firsthand how these incredible animals work together as a team. Each dog has its own role within the pack – some are leaders who guide the way, while others provide strength and endurance. The bond between musher and dog is undeniable as they communicate seamlessly during your adventure.

Discover Alaska’s Rich History

Dog sledding has a deep-rooted history in Alaska, dating back centuries. It was an essential mode of transportation for early settlers and played a vital role in exploration and trade. As you embark on your dog sledding journey, your musher will share fascinating stories about the history of this time-honored activity.

Imagine yourself transported back to the days when dog sleds were the primary means of getting around. Picture the bustling streets of historic Skagway, where teams of dogs would rush through town, delivering supplies and providing a lifeline to remote communities. Dog sledding truly embodies the spirit of Alaska’s pioneering past.

Cuddle Adorable Husky Puppies at Musher’s Camp

Before or after your dog sledding adventure, make sure to spend some time at Musher’s Camp cuddling adorable husky puppies. These playful bundles of fur will melt your heart with their boundless energy and irresistible charm. Engage with them as they playfully nibble on your fingers and shower you with affection.

Interacting with these puppies is not only incredibly enjoyable but also educational. Learn about their training process and how they eventually become part of a sled dog team. The love and care given to these puppies from birth until they join their fellow sled dogs are evident in their friendly nature.

Shopping and Dining Experiences in Skagway

Explore skagway’s charming downtown area.

When you step off your cruise ship at the Skagway port, get ready to immerse yourself in the charming downtown area. The streets are lined with colorful buildings that house unique shops selling local crafts, jewelry, clothing, and souvenirs. It’s like stepping into a vibrant wonderland of Alaskan treasures.

Take a leisurely stroll down Main Street and let your curiosity guide you into the various boutiques and galleries. Discover intricate hand-carved totem poles that tell stories of ancient Alaska or browse through beautiful hand-knit sweaters made from soft Alpaca wool. Every shop has something special to offer, whether it’s a one-of-a-kind piece of artwork or a locally-made trinket that will forever remind you of your time in Skagway.

Indulge in Delicious Alaskan Cuisine

After working up an appetite exploring downtown Skagway, it’s time to savor the flavors of Alaska. The local cuisine is renowned for its fresh seafood, and you’ll find an abundance of mouthwatering options. Sink your teeth into succulent salmon grilled to perfection or enjoy tender halibut cooked just right. If you’re feeling adventurous, give reindeer sausage a try for a true taste of the wild.

Skagway also boasts some fantastic breweries and distilleries where you can sample craft beers and spirits. Take a tour and learn about the brewing process while sipping on unique creations like birch syrup-infused vodka or hoppy IPAs made with locally grown ingredients. These establishments are not only great places to satisfy your thirst but also offer insights into Alaska’s rich brewing traditions.

Cozy Restaurants and Cafes

There is something for everyone’s palate. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, Skagway’s cozy restaurants and cafes have got you covered. Choose from a variety of options ranging from casual fare to gourmet dishes.

If you’re in the mood for comfort food, head to one of the local diners and indulge in classic Alaskan favorites like reindeer burgers or fish and chips. For those seeking a more refined dining experience, there are upscale restaurants that offer delectable seafood dishes prepared with a creative twist. Imagine savoring buttery crab legs accompanied by locally sourced vegetables while enjoying panoramic views of the stunning Alaskan landscape.

Don’t Forget the Sweet Treats

No visit to Skagway is complete without trying some famous Alaskan-made ice cream flavors. After all, indulging in a sweet treat is the perfect way to top off your exploration of this charming town. Head over to one of the local ice cream shops and be prepared to be amazed by their unique creations.

From wild blueberry swirls that burst with flavor to creamy birch syrup-infused scoops, there’s an ice cream flavor for every palate. Treat yourself to a cone or cup filled with these delightful frozen delights and take a moment to savor each spoonful as you soak in the beauty of Skagway.

Exploring Nearby Places: Yukon Territory and Glacier Bay

Extend your adventure by taking a scenic drive into canada’s yukon territory, where you can explore stunning landscapes and historic sites..

Looking to add even more excitement to your Alaskan cruise? Look no further than the nearby Yukon Territory in Canada. Just a short drive from Skagway, this region offers a wealth of natural beauty and fascinating history waiting to be discovered.

As you embark on your scenic drive through the picturesque landscapes of the Yukon, prepare to be amazed at every turn. The rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and lush forests create a breathtaking backdrop for your journey. Along the way, keep an eye out for wildlife such as bears, moose, and eagles that call this region home.

One of the highlights of exploring the Yukon is visiting historic sites that tell tales of its gold rush past. Step back in time as you visit places like Dawson City or Whitehorse, where remnants of the Klondike Gold Rush still linger. Immerse yourself in the stories of fortune seekers who flocked here in search of gold over a century ago.

For an authentic experience, consider hopping aboard the historic White Pass & Yukon Route railway. This narrow-gauge railroad takes you on a scenic journey through rugged terrain and offers panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. Feel like a true adventurer as you traverse mountain passes and cross towering trestle bridges.

Discover the beauty of Glacier Bay National Park on a cruise excursion that offers breathtaking views of glaciers, wildlife, and fjords.

No trip to Alaska would be complete without experiencing Glacier Bay National Park. This awe-inspiring destination showcases nature at its finest with massive glaciers, abundant wildlife, and majestic fjords.

Embark on a cruise excursion that takes you deep into Glacier Bay’s icy wonderland. As you sail through these pristine waters surrounded by towering glaciers, prepare to be captivated by the sheer beauty of your surroundings. Witness the mesmerizing sight of ice calving, where massive chunks of ice break off from the glaciers and crash into the water below with a thunderous roar.

Keep your camera ready as you may encounter a variety of wildlife along the way. Spot humpback whales breaching in the distance or playful sea otters frolicking in the icy waters. Keep an eye on the skies for bald eagles soaring overhead, their majestic presence adding to the already stunning scenery.

For a truly unique experience, consider taking a helicopter tour over Glacier Bay. Soar above these ancient glaciers and witness their grandeur from an unforgettable aerial perspective. Marvel at the vastness of this frozen landscape and gain a newfound appreciation for nature’s power and beauty.

Experience the thrill of helicopter tours that take you over awe-inspiring glaciers for an unforgettable aerial perspective.

If you’re seeking an adrenaline rush and a once-in-a-lifetime experience, look no further than a helicopter tour over Alaska’s breathtaking glaciers. These exhilarating tours offer unparalleled views and allow you to see this magnificent region from a whole new angle.

As you lift off in your helicopter, feel your heart race with excitement as you ascend above towering peaks and vast stretches of ice. The pilot will guide you through this icy wonderland, showcasing some of Alaska’s most iconic glaciers along the way.

Imagine yourself hovering above immense blue-white rivers of ice, witnessing crevasses and seracs that form intricate patterns on their surface. Admire how these colossal masses flow slowly down valleys, shaping the landscape over thousands of years.

Some helicopter tours even offer landings on remote glacier outposts, allowing you to step foot on this frozen terrain. Feel like an explorer as you walk on ancient ice formations while surrounded by breathtaking mountain vistas. It’s an experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Alaska by visiting nearby attractions such as Haines, Juneau, or the Inside Passage.

Skagway serves as an ideal starting point for further exploration of the Alaskan wilderness. Beyond its own captivating beauty, there are several nearby attractions that offer unique experiences and allow you to immerse yourself in the natural wonders of this region.

Just a short ferry ride away is Haines, a charming town nestled between mountains and water.

Essential Information for Visiting the Port of Skagway

Be prepared for varying weather conditions.

When visiting the port of Skagway, Alaska, it is important to be prepared for varying weather conditions. The climate in this region can be unpredictable, with changes occurring throughout the day. To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience, it is recommended to dress in layers and have waterproof gear on hand.

With layers of clothing, you can easily adjust your attire as the temperature fluctuates. Start with a base layer made of moisture-wicking material to keep you dry and comfortable. Over that, add insulating layers such as sweaters or fleece jackets. Finally, top it off with a waterproof and windproof outer layer to protect yourself from rain or snow.

By dressing appropriately for the weather, you’ll be able to fully enjoy all that Skagway has to offer without being hindered by uncomfortable conditions.

Plan Ahead and Book Shore Excursions in Advance

To make the most of your time at the port of Skagway, it is advisable to plan ahead and book shore excursions in advance. This will help you secure your spot on popular activities like train rides or dog sledding tours, which tend to fill up quickly.

Skagway offers a range of exciting shore excursions that allow you to explore its stunning natural beauty and immerse yourself in local culture. From scenic hikes along breathtaking trails to thrilling helicopter tours over glaciers, there is something for everyone.

Booking your shore excursions early not only guarantees your spot but also gives you peace of mind knowing that everything is taken care of before you even set foot on land. So don’t wait until the last minute – plan ahead and make the most out of your visit to Skagway!

Take Advantage of Free Shuttles or Explore on Foot

Upon arriving at the port of Skagway, you’ll find convenient transportation options to explore the area. Many cruise lines provide free shuttles that transport passengers between the port, downtown Skagway, and other popular attractions.

These shuttles offer a hassle-free way to get around and ensure you don’t miss out on any must-see sights. Whether you want to visit historical landmarks, browse local shops, or indulge in delicious seafood at waterfront restaurants, the free shuttle service will take you there.

Alternatively, if you prefer a more leisurely pace and want to soak in the charm of Skagway at your own rhythm, exploring on foot is highly recommended. The port is conveniently located near downtown Skagway, where most attractions are within walking distance. Strolling through the streets allows you to fully appreciate the town’s rich history and picturesque scenery.

Stay Hydrated During Your Visit

Skagway’s outdoor activities and scenic trails beckon adventurers from all over. As you embark on these exciting endeavors, it is essential to stay hydrated throughout your visit.

Carrying water bottles with you ensures that you can quench your thirst whenever needed. Hydration is crucial for maintaining energy levels and preventing dehydration in this active environment.

Whether hiking along breathtaking trails or engaging in exhilarating outdoor activities like kayaking or fishing, having water readily available will keep you refreshed and ready for new adventures.

Familiarize Yourself with Local Customs and Wildlife Etiquette

When visiting the port of Skagway, it’s important to familiarize yourself with local customs and respect wildlife by observing them from a safe distance while adhering to park regulations.

Alaska’s natural beauty is home to diverse wildlife species such as bears, moose, eagles, and whales. While encountering these magnificent creatures can be awe-inspiring, it is crucial not to disturb their natural habitats or endanger yourself by approaching them too closely.

Respecting wildlife etiquette means keeping a safe distance from animals and refraining from feeding or touching them. This not only ensures your safety but also preserves the well-being of the wildlife and their ecosystems.

Can I visit Skagway without taking a cruise?

Yes! While Skagway is a popular cruise port, it is also accessible by road and air. You can choose to visit independently or join land-based tours to explore the area.

What is the best time of year to visit Skagway?

The peak tourist season in Skagway runs from May to September when the weather is milder. However, each season offers its own unique charm, so it ultimately depends on your preferences.

Are there any age restrictions for outdoor adventures in Skagway?

Age restrictions may vary depending on the specific activities and tour operators. It’s best to check with individual providers to ensure suitability for all members of your group.

Can I see wildlife during my visit to Skagway?

Yes! Skagway is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including bald eagles, bears, whales, and more. Keep your eyes peeled during outdoor excursions for potential wildlife sightings.

Are there vegetarian or vegan dining options available in Skagway?

Yes! Many restaurants in Skagway offer vegetarian and vegan menu options. Be sure to inform the staff about any dietary restrictions or preferences when dining out.

These FAQs should help answer some common questions you may have about visiting Skagway Cruise Port. If you have any further inquiries, feel free to reach out to local tourism authorities or consult with your travel agent for personalized assistance.

24 Things To Do In Skagway Alaska Cruise Port

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Skagway is a historic small town with a rich history along the Alaska panhandle.

Don’t let its small size fool you.

Skagway Alaska was once the heart of the gold rush. Decades later, it is one of the most popular destinations for cruise ships and tourists.

The small-town charm, gold rush history, and breathtaking train rides provide plenty of excitement for visitors.

Whether you’re researching an Alaskan cruise itinerary or considering booking a shore excursion, here are our favorite things to do in Skagway, Alaska.

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Things to do in Skagway Alaska

Despite its small size, Skagway Alaska offers a wide range of activities and shore excursions.

Do you want to explore the local shops, take a train ride on the historic White Pass railroad, hike one of the many trails, explore the gold rush history, or experience dog sledding?

Choosing an activity can be overwhelming, with so much to see and do.

We’ve compiled a list of our favorite things to do in Skagway, Alaska, to help you decide.

1. Ride the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway

Ride the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad in Skagway Alaska with mountains in the background

The White Pass & Yukon Route Railway is my favorite thing to do in Skagway, Alaska. This historic railway offers an unforgettable trip through the breathtaking landscapes of Alaska and the Yukon.

It’s a journey filled with historical and scenic beauty.

View of a mountain in Skagway Alaska from White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad with the yellow engine on the right

Built in 1898 during the Klondike Gold Rush, the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad is a testament to human determination and ingenuity. The railroad was constructed to offer a more direct route to the Yukon’s gold fields, replacing the perilous trails that prospectors had to navigate on foot.

At several points along the ride, you can see the original foot route taken by explorers.

White Pass Railroad Engine traveling over the iconic wooden bridge

The vintage rail cars take you to almost 3,000 feet above sea level, where you’ll witness breathtaking scenes, including the 1898 Original Klondike Trail, Inspiration Point, Bridal Veil Falls, and Dead Horse Gulch.

The one to three-hour excursion retraces the steps of miners’ journey to find fortune as you will discover various gorges, glaciers, canyons, waterfalls, bridges, tunnels, mountains, and wildlife.

Ride the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad traveling on a wooden bridge and entering a tunnel

It is mind-blowing to see a rock face on one side and a steep drop on the other. A highlight of the journey is crossing wooden bridges.

The wooden bridge you cross isn’t original to the rail line. The original wooden bridge was decommissioned and collapsed in 2021.

But don’t worry. The bridge wasn’t in use at the time, and no one was hurt.

During the ride, tour guides share facts about the history of the gold rush and stories about the miners.

The White Pass & Yukon Route Railway connects passengers to the history and adventure of the Gold Rush era and showcases the awe-inspiring beauty of the North in a way that’s accessible to all.

Book a White Pass & Yukon Route Tour

2. Zipline Through The Rainforest

A woman ziplining through a temperate rainforest in Skagway Alaska. They are securely harnessed and wearing a protective red helmet

Alaska is known for its majestic wildlife and wilderness experiences. But imagine having a bird’ s-eye view of Skagway’s lush rainforests and waterfalls.

Ziplining in Skagway offers a unique and exhilarating way to experience Alaska’s stunning temperate rainforest. It’s not just about the thrill of speed and height; it’s a chance to see the area’s natural beauty from a different perspective.

You can sit back and watch nature’s beauty unfold as you zip through the trees.

Throughout the tour, experts support you, sharing historical facts as you hike to your treetop destination, capturing stunning, picturesque photos for your family, or providing a helping hand throughout the experience.

Ziplining is an incredible experience. It is one of my favorite things to do in Skagway.

My Favorite Ziplining Tour

3. Experience Dog Sledding

Sled dog racing is an iconic sport throughout Alaska and an equally popular tourist attraction.

Skagway’s Sled Dog Tours encourages you to push beyond your comfort zone and experience what it takes to become an expert musher. You will learn about the dogs, their training, and the lifestyle of dog sledders.

When I last visited Alaska, I was fortunate to visit a couple of weeks after the birth of puppies.

Holding the “future athletes” was one of the highlights of my trip. We were encouraged to play with the puppies to help them socialize. It’s the first step of their dog sled training.

Marisssa De Lio holding a puppy a a dog sledding shore excursion in Skagway Alaska

Dog sledding tours in Skagway educate you on the Iditarod’s history and sled dogs’ vital role in Alaskan lore. This blend of adventure, education, and cultural immersion makes dog sledding in Skagway a must-do activity.

It’s not just about the ride’s rush; it’s an experience that allows you to step into the shoes of Alaskan mushers and appreciate the beauty and challenges of the Alaskan wilderness.

Book A Dog Sledding Tour

4. See Pitchfork Falls

Despite being one of 40 waterfalls identified by name in Alaska, Pitchfork Falls is one of Skagway’s most incredible beauties.

Gorgeous flora and mountain-side terrain surround the crystal clear lake. The waterfall spans over 200 feet and provides picturesque views and stunning beauty. Located just 7 miles from downtown Skagway, local experts offer guided walking tours that bring you close to the falls and share scientific and historical facts about its existence.

Keep your eyes open for spectacular wildlife animals, including brown or black bears and bald eagles.

5. Take a Scenic Helicopter Ride

Photo of a red helicopter landed on a glacier inalaska with mountains in the background

Helicopter tours in Skagway, Alaska, offer awe-inspiring views and a unique perspective on the rugged beauty of America’s Last Frontier. This exhilarating adventure lifts you above the dramatic landscapes of Skagway, providing an eagle-eye view of glaciers, mountains, and the untouched beauty of Alaska.

For those seeking adventure, some helicopter tours combine flights with glacier trekking, dog sledding, or other outdoor activities. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or simply someone who appreciates the majesty of nature, a helicopter tour in Skagway is an experience that truly encapsulates the splendor of Alaska.

I haven’t yet had the opportunity to take a helicopter tour in Alaska, but it’s on my bucket list for my next Alaskan cruise.

6. Take a Hiking Trail

Skagway’s hiking trails offer an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the region’s rugged beauty and serene landscapes. Skagway’s trails invite adventurers of all skill levels to explore the breathtaking vistas, pristine forests, clear blue waterfalls, and the historical remnants that dot the landscape.

What makes hiking in Skagway particularly exhilarating is the diversity of the trails.

Each trail presents a unique adventure, from the challenging ascents of the Chilkoot Trail, which echoes the steps of gold rush stampeders, to the more leisurely paths leading to crystalline lakes and waterfalls.

As you navigate the trails, you walk along paths traversed by Tlingit First Nations, early explorers, and Gold Rush fortune-seekers.

7. Take an Electric Bicycle Tour

Imagine an effortless bike ride through Skagway, Alaska’s scenic town and landscapes. The fresh, crisp air brushes against your face, and a gold panning activity to end the day.

Skaway’s electric bike tours are a fun and easy way to explore the historic city.

As you glide along the paved and dirt roads winding through Skagway’s breathtaking scenery, your knowledgeable guide shares stories about the area’s rich history. You’ll learn about the Klondike Gold Rush and the pioneers who ventured through this landscape while enjoying the ease of riding your electric bike.

After soaking in the stunning vistas and historical tales, you’ll try your hand at gold panning. The hands-on experience connects you with the history of the Gold Rush and offers the exciting possibility of finding your own treasure.

This tour is more than just a bike ride; it’s a journey through time and an opportunity to engage with Skagway’s natural beauty and historical significance, whether you’re an avid cyclist or someone looking for a unique way to explore Alaska’s outdoors.

Book a Bike Tour in Skagway

8. Try the Historic Train Carriage Escape Room

No matter our age, we all feel a little excitement when we face a challenge to think outside the box, solve puzzles, race against the clock, or compete against our family and friends.

Skagway’s Historic Train Carriage Escape Room is the place for innovative or creative passengers who crave this type of thrill on their vacation.

This 60-minute puzzle game involves you and your group working through clues and activities that prompt players to solve different missions. Upon entering, up to six players will be debriefed and locked in the puzzle room.

Players must collaborate to unravel some of Skagway’s deepest, darkest secrets that will eventually crack the code to escape. The escape room experience is a fun way to spend time with your loved ones. The memories created here will be filled with joy and last a lifetime.

9. Take a River Float Trip

The calm river during a river float trip with mountains in the background

Embarking on a float trip while cruising through Alaska is an adventure that combines the thrill of discovery with the soothing embrace of nature’s calm. Envision yourself gently bobbing along an emerald river, cradled by Alaska’s pristine wilderness.

This tranquil journey grants you a front-row seat to the awe-inspiring beauty of the Last Frontier.

As your raft meanders downstream, the backdrop of rugged mountains and lush forests offers a relaxing break from the fast pace of cruising.

A float trip on your Alaskan cruise is unique because of its universal appeal. It’s an adventure that welcomes all and requires no special skills or endurance. Float trips are a perfect choice for families, and the tranquil setting makes them an ideal shore excursion for couples.

It’s an inclusive way to delve into Alaska’s vast wilderness, offering everyone a chance to behold the scenic wonders of this remote paradise without the need for vigorous exertion.

Book A River Float Tour

10. Explore the Historic Downtown Skagway

Mainstreet Skagway Alaska with historically accurate buildings and wooden boardwalks

Skagway’s historic downtown is an enchanting journey back in time, offering incredible restaurants and stores and a vivid snapshot of the town’s rich history.

As you wander down the charming wooden boardwalks, you’re stepping into a living museum, where every building and storefront tells a story of the past. Skagway’s Main Street is an essential spot for foodies and souvenir hunters.

My favorite stops are Olivia’s Alaskan Bistro and the Skagway Fish Company, offering grilled salmon and fresh king crab legs. These eateries serve meals and a taste of Alaskan hospitality and the rich bounty of its waters.

For beer lovers, Skagway Brewing Co. offers a great selection of locally crafted beers.

Photo of historic Skagway downtown. Cruise ship passengers browse the streets through restaurants and shops

Beyond the culinary scene, downtown Skagway is a history and culture treasure trove. Stroll past historic saloons and explore engaging museums that bring the Gold Rush era to life, or take in a show at one of the historic theaters. The Arctic Brotherhood Hall stands as a particularly captivating sight. The hall is an excellent stop for photos, with its façade adorned with driftwood.

Skagway’s downtown is small. Walking it from end to end only takes a few minutes. Main Street envelops you in a sense of belonging in a small community.

This blend of history, community, and the simple joy of discovery makes exploring downtown Skagway one of the most rewarding experiences for visitors seeking the essence of this unique Alaskan town.

11. Visit Jewell Gardens

Discovering the enchanting Jewell Gardens is a quintessential Skagway experience. The gardens capture why this town is affectionately known as the “Garden City of Alaska.”

The gardens are a stone’s throw from the hustle and bustle of Skagway’s downtown. Jewell Gardens is a living canvas painted with the vivid hues of Alaska’s wildflowers. Among them is the state’s treasured Alpine Forget-Me-Not, a delicate bloom embodying the Alaskan wilderness’s enduring beauty and resilience.

The beautiful flower displays are an incredible backdrop for your social media photos.

But Jewell Gardens’ beauty extends beyond its floral wonders. It is also a showcase for the exquisite art of glassblowing, a craft perfected by skilled local artisans. These unique glass creations add an extra layer of enchantment to the gardens, marrying the fragility of glass with the fleeting beauty of blooms.

Under the guidance of Charlotte Jewell, the gardens invite visitors to delve deeper into the world of glass with tours of the Gardens Glass Gallery and Art Studio. Here, the magic of glassblowing comes alive in live demonstrations. Visitors even have the chance to create their own glass ornament, a tangible and lasting memento of their journey to Skagway, which is thoughtfully shipped to your home, ensuring the memories of your visit linger.

The adventure through Jewell Gardens culminates in a delightful culinary experience at Poppies Restaurant. Here, the bounty of the gardens comes full circle, with dishes featuring the organic produce grown on-site, allowing you to savor the taste of Skagway’s Garden City in every bite.

Book A Tour of the Jewell Gardens

12. Watch the Salmon Run

A photo taken from the shore of a river in Skagway Alaska of salmon swiming upstream during the salmon run

Alaska’s allure extends into its rich marine life. Salmon is a staple of the local cuisine and an annual natural spectacle, with the famous salmon run.

Alaska’s salmon run coincides with the cruise season, lasting between May through October. It’s an annual migration where salmon swim upstream to spawn in freshwater rivers and lakes.

Pullen Creek—also called Dewey Creek—provides a front-row seat to this magnificent event. You have the unique opportunity to observe Chinook and Pink salmon on their relentless journey upstream.

The salmon run is a powerful display of nature’s cycle as they return to their spawning grounds.

Harbor seals and grizzly bears are frequent visitors drawn by the allure of a salmon feast.

Visiting the salmon rush offers the opportunity to see a magnificent event and the chance to see bears along the riverside.

While traveling to Chilkoot Lake, I saw thousands of salmon swimming upstream. At one point, a narrow bridge with a single chair overlooked the river. A person sat every day counting the salmon swimming through the river so conservationists could monitor wildlife populations.

I worried about the worker when I spotted a bear on the riverbank. But our tour guide reassured me that the salmon was so plentiful that the bears wouldn’t bother him.

Now, when I think of the salmon run, I can’t think of that person sitting day by day counting fish. The tally is posted on a nearby sign. The count was more than 40,000 when I visited—a mindblowing number of fish for a small lake.

13. Spot Wildlife on Chilkoot Lake

A journey to Chilkoot Lake is an awe-inspiring experience. This adventure begins with a thrilling high-speed catamaran journey through Skagway’s picturesque fjords en route to Haines, Alaska. Along the way, the breathtaking landscape unfolds with majestic waterfalls cascading down and glaciers etching the distant shores.

As you glide across the water, keep your eyes peeled for the diverse wildlife inhabiting the coastline and skies. Bears strolling along the shore, harbor seals basking in the sun, bald eagles soaring overhead, and eagles gliding on the breeze.

Chilkoot Lake is a beautiful landscape. Stunning snow-capped mountains surround the large crystal lake.

The park’s rich ecosystem supports a vibrant array of wildlife, including thousands of salmon jumping and spawning in the shallow waters near shore.

When I visited Chilkoot Lake, our tour guide shared stories about Tlingit culture and the science behind the glaciers that shape the Alaskan landscape.

14. Klondike Gold Rush National Historic Park

Klondike Gold Rush National Historic Park museum located in skagway

The Klondike Gold Rush National Historic Park is a captivating site that is a testament to human perseverance, ambition, and the allure of adventure. The park takes you back to the late 19th century when thousands of hopeful miners rushed to the Klondike region, hoping to find gold and change their fortunes forever.

Here’s why visiting this historic park ranks as one of Skagway’s best experiences.

The Klondike Gold Rush museum is a short walk from the cruise park and spans approximately 12,900 acres of the pristine Alaskan wilderness. It serves as a living museum dedicated to safeguarding the heritage, landscapes, and stores of the Gold Rush.

The park’s essence lies in its ability to transport visitors back in time, offering a vivid glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of the past.

The welcome sign welcoming visitors to Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park in Skagway, Alaska

Park Rangers greet you and share stories and artifacts from the Klondike Gold Rush. Through engaging presentations and compelling video narratives, they share the miners’ personal stories, dreams, and what life was like for those hoping to find fortune.

The park’s museum is a treasure trove filled with genuine artifacts, aged machinery, and memorabilia. The displays provide a unique lens through which you can explore the daily lives, struggles, and hopes of those who ventured into this remote wilderness in search of gold.

This immersive experience allows you to retrace the miners’ steps, offering a tangible connection to the history of Skagway and the Gold Rush.

For those inspired by the museum’s tales, the Chilkoot Trail offers a physical connection to history. This historic trail was once trodden by hopeful prospectors who made their way to the Klondike gold fields in the Yukon province in Canada.

The trail offers visitors the chance to walk in adventurers’ footsteps, experiencing the Alaskan landscape’s rugged beauty just as they did. It’s a profound experience that not many people get to experience.

15. Red Onion Saloon Brothel Museum

The exterior of the Red Onion Saloon in Skagway

The Red Onion Saloon was constructed in 1898 during the height of the Alaskan Gold Rush. The museum is a captivating window into the lives of the brave miners and the women who were integral to Skagway’s vibrant, albeit notorious, past.

Originally a bordello, this establishment now serves as a museum. It offers visitors a glimpse into a bygone era characterized by hardship and the pursuit of fortune.

The Red Onion Saloon Brothel Museum invites you to delve into the stories of the women who ran this bustling dance hall and bar. You’ll uncover the fascinating history of the Gold Rush brothels, including the untold secrets and stories.

After journeying through Skagway’s more colorful history, the experience continues in the saloon’s restaurant. The restaurant is a fantastic stop for pizza and local craft beer.

The Red Onion Saloon Brothel Museum provides an intriguing insight into the social dynamics of the Gold Rush-era town and reminds visitors of the diverse stories that shaped Skagway.

16. Take the Ghosts and Goodtime Girls Historical Walking Tour

Dive into the shadowy corners of Skagway’s past with the Ghosts and Goodtime Girls Historical Walking Tour. It’s an experience that transports you back to the wild days of the Gold Rush.

Walk through the historic streets of Skagway, where guides share tales of daring adventurers and spirited good-time girls.

The tour peels back the layers of Skagway’s history, revealing the human stories and hidden haunts behind the town’s lively facade. You’ll learn about the infamous characters who left their mark on the city and the ghost stories that have lingered through the decades.

The Ghosts and Goodtime Girls Historical Walking Tour is an immersive experience that brings old Skagway’s vibrancy, vice, and vitality to life. This shore excursion is perfect for fans of the paranormal and those looking to experience a darker side of Skagway.

17. Gold Rush Cemetery

The grave of Soapy Smith in Skagway, Alaska at the Gold Rush Cemetery

While it might not top your initial list of must-see destinations in Skagway, the Gold Rush Cemetery offers a captivating glimpse into the turbulent times of 1897. The cemetery is only 1.5 miles away from Skagway’s downtown. It’s also visible from the White Pass train ride.

This historic site is the final resting place of some of the most colorful figures from Alaska’s Gold Rush era, including the notorious Jefferson “Soapy” Smith and the intriguing Martin Itjen.

“Soapy” Smith is known for his infamous cons and political manipulations. He left a legacy of deceit that embodies the lawless days of the Gold Rush. His grave is a stark reminder of the shadowy figures who once roamed the streets of Skagway, seeking fortune by any means necessary.

In stark contrast, Martin Itjen’s contribution to Skagway’s history tells a tale of fortune and the early seeds of tourism he helped sow in the area. Martin is famous for discovering what was claimed to be the “world’s largest golden nugget.” Itjen is also remembered for his efforts to promote Skagway to visitors, showcasing the town’s unique charm and historical significance.

The cemetery is also the final resting place for several other notable characters whose lives intertwined with the Gold Rush, whose names are on the National Park Services’ website . Visiting the Gold Rush Cemetery offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore the enduring legacies of Skagway’s most memorable inhabitants.

This historical site provides a look into the past and a reflection on the diverse stories that together weave the fabric of Alaska’s Gold Rush era.

18. Visit Klondike Brewing Company

The Klondike Brewing Company is a beacon for craft beer enthusiasts and history buffs. This local brewery offers a unique blend of flavors and tells stories of the region’s rugged past and vibrant community spirit.

At Klondike Brewing Company, the art of beer making is deeply intertwined with Skagway’s heritage. Visitors can indulge in various meticulously crafted beers, from refreshing ales to rich stouts.

Each brew is infused with local ingredients and inspired by the adventurous spirit of the Klondike Gold Rush.

The warm, welcoming atmosphere is perfect for gathering with friends, sharing stories, and making new memories. It’s a great spot to relax after a hike or escape the hustle of a busy cruise ship.

With its rustic decor and friendly staff, the brewery captures the essence of Skagway’s past while celebrating the community’s present-day vibrancy.

19. Skagway Museum and Archives

As the gateway to the Klondike, Skagway witnessed a bustling parade of hopeful gold-seekers. This historic rush left a mark on the city, with countless stories and artifacts embedded in the fabric of Skagway’s past.

These treasures are meticulously preserved within the walls of the Skagway Museum and Archives. The building was constructed in 1898 and has served various roles, from school to courthouse to a jail and now a museum.

This museum is a treasure trove of Gold Rush-era memorabilia. You can dive deeply into the history and cultures that shaped Alaska through photographs, documents, and personal accounts.

But its collections go beyond the frenzy of the gold rush, with a collection of Indigenous Alaskan artifacts that offer a glimpse into the area’s ancient heritage.

Visitors can marvel at mammoth tusks, admire the craftsmanship of a traditional Tlingit canoe, and explore the intricate beauty of beadworks and wood carvings. Each piece tells a story of culture and survival in Alaska’s harsh landscapes.

The Skagway Museum and Archives offer a comprehensive journey through time, making it an ideal destination for families and individuals who wish to uncover the history of Skagway and the Klondike Gold Rush.

It’s not just a museum; it’s a portal to the past, inviting exploration, learning, and discovery for all who enter.

20. Enjoy the Davidson Glacier

First encountered in the Chilkat Inlet in 1867, Davidson Glacier remains one of Skagway’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Excursions to this blue ice glacier are an awe-inspiring journey.

There are several ways to visit the glacier. Whether you choose a 6-hour scenic boat cruise, paddle through serene waters on a canoe, or soar above the landscape on a 5-hour helicopter ride to the glacier’s base.

Keep your camera ready—not just for the glacier itself but also for the marine life inhabiting these waters. The opportunity to spot whales, seals, and dolphins in their natural habitat adds an extra layer of excitement to the adventure.

Book My Favorite Tour to Davidson Glacier

21. Liarsville Gold Rush Trail Camp Tours and Tickets

Liarsville Gold Rush Trail Camp offers the opportunity to try your luck panning for gold. No visit to Alaska is complete without immersing yourself in the excitement and history of the Gold Rush era.

Liarsville Gold Rush Trail Camp is perfect for families and people of all ages. It’s an interactive journey into the heart of Skagway’s storied past.

And the best part?

Whatever gold you find, you keep, turning your adventure into a tangible memory you can hold onto forever.

Book Tickets to Liarsville Gold Rush Trail

22. The Days of ’98 Show

A historic small town like Skagway would not be complete without a classic, beautiful, lively theater.

Established in 1923, the Foe No. 25 theater is home to the Days of the ’98 Show, featuring upbeat song choreography and endless comedy that will surely leave audience members at the edge of their seats. With shows available throughout the day, this theater offers a captivating and entertaining way to learn about Skagway’s greatest outlaws, such as “Soapy Smith,” the history of the city, and the Gold Rush Era.

As theater seats are a hot commodity among travelers, purchase your tickets well in advance to secure your spot.

23. Skagway Brewing Company

Skagway’s Brewing Company is the perfect restaurant, brewery, and pub if you are looking for good-tasting Alaskan cuisine or want to relax with a nice cold one.

This brewery is renowned for its divine homebrewed ales and remarkable wine collection using the highest-quality local ingredients.

But if alcoholic beverages are not your style, don’t worry.

The Brewing Company offers something extraordinary for every type of diner to enjoy.

The restaurant’s lunch and dinner menus include seafood, sandwiches, and pasta and gluten-free, vegetarian, and kid-friendly choices that suit each guest’s unique taste buds.

24. Participate in a Photography Tour

Embarking on a photography tour in Skagway, Alaska, is like stepping into a living postcard. Skagway presents an unrivaled canvas with the natural beauty of mountains and waterfalls alongside the beautiful historic buildings of Skagway’s downtown.

A photography tour in Skagway isn’t just about snapping pictures; it’s an immersive experience that guides you through the art of seeing. Led by seasoned photographers with an intimate knowledge of the area, you’re introduced to hidden gems and vantage points that offer breathtaking views of towering mountains, serene waters, and lush forests.

Whether it’s the vibrant hues of sunrise bathing the landscape in golden light or the mystical aura of fog rolling over the hills, each moment provides a unique opportunity to capture the essence of Alaska’s wilderness.

The colorful facades of historic buildings, the intricate details of Tlingit art, and the lively expressions of locals and visitors alike add depth and storytelling to your photographic journey.

A photography tour in this vibrant town encourages you to explore different perspectives, from the exquisite to the intricate, ensuring that each photograph tells a story, evokes an emotion, or captures a moment in time.

25. Explore the Yukon Territory

Exploring the Yukon Territory from Skagway, Alaska, offers an unforgettable journey into a land where the spirit of the Gold Rush still echoes amidst the vast. The Yukon, with its sprawling landscapes, dramatic mountain vistas, and pristine lakes, represents the untamed beauty and rugged history of the North like no other place.

Setting off from Skagway, you can venture into the Yukon via the scenic South Klondike Highway.

This route is a marvel, winding through towering mountain ranges, past serene alpine lakes, and alongside the rushing waters of the Yukon River. Each turn presents a new postcard-worthy scene, offering glimpses of wildlife and the raw majesty of the northern wilderness.

The journey into the Yukon is as much about the journey itself as the destination.

Along the way, travelers can stop at historic sites that tell stories of hardship and hope that defined the Gold Rush era. The charming town of Carcross, Yukon, serves as a highlight, where you can explore the cultural heritage of the Tagish First Nation and marvel at the famous Carcross Desert, the world’s smallest desert.

Skagway Alaska History

Skagway is nestled at the northern tip of Alaska’s Inside Passage. The small town serves as a living monument to the dreams and hardships of the Gold Rush era.

The Tlingit people originally inhabited the area. Skagway is derived from the Tlingit word “skagua,” meaning “place where the north wind blows.” It speaks to the natural forces that shape this land.

Skagway’s foundation in the 1890s marked it as the gateway to the Yukon and Klondike goldfields. It served as a staging ground for hopeful explorers seeking fortune.

The arrival of gold seekers in the late 19th century transformed Skagway from a modest settlement into a bustling city. Hopeful miners set out on foot to reach the gold fields.

Construction on the White Pass and Yukon Route (WP&YR) Railroad was completed in 1900 and became the primary route for miners. The railway serviced the gold mines and became an iconic symbol of this era, connecting Skagway to Whitehorse, Canada.

Although the railroad ceased operations in 1982 due to the closure of the Anvil Gold Mines, it was revived in 1988 for tourists eager to witness the beauty and history of this rugged landscape.

Modern-day Skagway offers a rich history and stunning scenery that draws visitors from around the globe. The town’s tourism thrives on the stories of the past, offering guests a window into the wild days of the Gold Rush. The city remains a vibrant community where the past and present merge.

Skagway is one of the most popular cruise ports, with over 1.2 million annual passengers visiting ( Source ).

What You Need to Know Before Visiting Skagway

Serenade of the Seas docked at Skagway, Alaska cruise port ona beautiful day with a Holland America Line ship in the background and a mountain

Navigating Skagway, Alaska Cruise Port

As your cruise ship approaches Skagway, Alaska, you’ll dock at one of the town’s four main docking points, accommodating up to four cruise ships. Main Street is only a short walk from all four cruise docks.

Broadway Dock: Found at the very end of Broadway, this dock places you directly in line with Skagway’s bustling main street.
Railroad Dock: Situated on the town’s southern edge, this dock offers immediate access to scenic railroad adventures.
Ore Dock: Located at Main Street’s terminus, it hints at Skagway’s rich mining heritage.
Ferry Dock: Just a brief stroll from downtown, this dock accommodates ferries and smaller vessels and integrates seamlessly with the town’s quaint charm.

Upon disembarking, you’ll find Skagway’s compact nature both welcoming and accessible. This convenient location allows for easy on-foot exploration of the city’s main attractions, including museums, shops, and restaurants.

The small town is only four blocks wide, creating an intimate setting easily accessible by foot.

Skagway offers the Skagway Municipal And Regional Transit (SMART), which operates the SMART shuttle bus. The “Dock to Downtown” service runs every 15 minutes during the cruise season. Other transportation methods include car rentals, taxis, and E-Bike rentals.

Broadway, Skagway’s main artery, is where the heart of the town beats loudest. Nestled among stunning natural beauty, you’ll discover an array of shops, historic sites, and dining establishments. This thoroughfare encapsulates the essence of Skagway, offering a direct pathway to understanding its storied past and vibrant present.

Skagway Alaska cruise port on a foggy day wiht Serenade of the Seas in the forground and Holland America cruise ship in the background

Skagway, Alaska, offers the best weather along the Inside Passage during the May-September cruise season. It is tucked away in a valley between massive, snow-capped mountains.

The location offers moderate temperatures and minimal rain, but it can also get quite windy. Therefore, you’ll want to bring a windbreaker when you step off the cruise ship.

May starts with fresh spring air and average temperatures around 50°F, ideal for enjoying the region’s natural beauty without crowds. June and July are warmer, up to 65°F, benefiting from extended daylight for outdoor activities. With changing foliage, August sees a slight temperature drop and more rain. September cools down, introducing early autumn’s colors, a quieter atmosphere, and more rain.

As Skagway is part of the United States, the local currency is the U.S. Dollar. Visitors from outside the U.S. should plan to exchange their currency accordingly.

Major credit cards are widely accepted in Skagway, particularly in tourist areas and by tour operators. It’s a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases , tips, and vendors that may not accept cards.

ATMs are available throughout the city for those needing to withdraw cash.

What to Pack

Embarking on a journey to Skagway, Alaska, is like stepping into a world where nature’s grandeur meets historical intrigue. Knowing what to pack for your cruise to Skagway, Alaska , is essential to make the most of your vacation.

The cornerstone of your Skagway packing list is layers .

Start with breathable, moisture-wicking base layers that keep you dry and comfortable during hikes or outdoor excursions. Add mid-layers, such as fleece or wool sweaters, for insulation, and cap it off with a waterproof and windproof outer layer to protect against sudden rain showers and gusty winds.

Packing multiple layers of clothes allows you to seamlessly adjust to the day’s changing temperatures and conditions.

Comfortable, waterproof walking or hiking shoes are necessary for exploring Skagway’s terrain. Packaging sturdy shoes with good grip keeps you safe and comfortable.

Remember to pack accessories like a brimmed hat, UV-protection sunglasses for sunny days, gloves, and a warm hat for chillier mornings and evenings. A lightweight, waterproof daypack is invaluable for carrying essentials like water, snacks, and your camera to capture Skagway’s breathtaking vistas.

I recommend bringing binoculars and a high-quality camera to enjoy Skagway’s stunning natural beauty.

If you plan specific activities, like glacier tours or kayaking, it is advisable to pack appropriate gear or confirm rental options in advance.

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10 best things to do in Skagway Alaska from a cruise ship (free + on your own + excursions!) 🏔 Alaska cruise tips

Many cruise ships have all day in Skagway. This is quite nice, because you can do something in the morning, go back to the ship for lunch, and then go out and do something again in the afternoon and/or evening!

I have been to Skagway 6 times by cruise ship, and here are the things to do in Skagway cruise port that you need to know about!

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1. White Pass and Yukon Route Railway (excursion)

The White Pass train is Skagway’s most famous excursion. The train ride starts near the cruise port, and you’ll ride through mountains to the White Pass summit and beyond into Canada. Depending on the time of year you go, you might get views of snow-covered mountains!

There are many different ways to make the White Pass train a part of your time in Skagway cruise port.

The most basic way is to do a round-trip train from Skagway. You’ll be on the train the whole time.

There are also tours where you can take the train one way and a narrated shuttle on the Klondike Highway the other way. There are longer and shorter shuttle rides depending on how far you want to go. There are tours that go all the way to the Yukon, making stops at the Emerald Lake and Carcross Desert among other worthy spots.

How to book the White Pass train

Most people book a White Pass excursion through the cruise line. The cruise line also offers various combination tours that include the train. By booking through the cruise line, you’ll board the train the closest it can get to the cruise port.

Some people book directly through the White Pass Yukon Route website , saying that it is cheaper. You can compare the price to see if that’s what you find. Train tickets through the website are limited, so if you find that it’s sold out for your date, it’s possible that the cruise line still has tickets available.

If you book direct, you will need to board the train at the Skagway train depot in town. This is not that big of a deal as long as you don’t mind an extra 10-15 minutes of walking. The same train that everyone boards near the cruise port will make a stop at the Skagway depot before really getting started to go to the White Pass summit!

If you want to book a White Pass train combination tour with a local company, Chilkoot Tours is a tour company that gets recommended a lot in Alaska cruise facebook groups.

Do you need your passport for the White Pass train?

The train goes into Canada. If you are doing the train-only excursion, then you don’t need a passport. Otherwise, if you will be on an excursion that will be literally stepping foot in Canada, you must bring your passport. It will be checked by border agents. (Check your booking confirmation details to confirm!)

Can you drive the Klondike Highway on your own?

There are people who rent cars when they are in Skagway to drive the Klondike Highway on their own. You can even do a DIY self-drive jeep tour in Skagway !

2. Dog sledding on a glacier (epic excursion!)

One of the most epic Alaska excursions you can do in Skagway is dog sledding on a glacier. And that glacier part is important!

You can do a dog sledding tour on snow even in the summer. But you need to fly to get to the snow-covered glacier in the summer.

This means that as a part of your glacier dog sledding tour, it’s also a flightseeing tour! You will fly across mountains to get to the glacier, and that part is epic all on its own.

So you’ll fly by helicopter to the sled dog camp on a glacier, and you’ll get to meet sled dogs and training and their trainer (aka musher). Then, you’ll be pulled by the dogs for a ride around the glacier!

The dog sledding season in Skagway is from mid-May to early August.

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How to book a dog sledding tour in Skagway

You can look for a dog sledding excursion through your cruise line.

If you want to book direct, the dog sledding tours are through the Temsco helicopter tour company. You’ll want to read your booking e-mail for specific meeting point instructions, but you can expect it to be at the end of the pier where your cruise ship is docked. You will look for a sign for your dog sledding tour.

Is Skagway the only cruise port to do dog sledding?

No, Skagway is not the only cruise port to do dog sledding on a glacier. You can also do a dog sledding tour in Juneau . If your cruise goes to or from Whittier or Seward and you’re spending a few days on land, you can also look for dog sledding tours in Anchorage . (And the dog sledding season lasts a few weeks longer there too, through the beginning of September.)

Dog sledding tours NOT on snow

Glacier dog sledding tours are epic but expensive. If you want a cheaper way to have fun with sled dogs in training, then you will want to look at doing a sled ride with Alaskan huskies through Tongass National Forest .

These types of dog sledding musher camps do not include a helicopter ride, they are not on a glacier, and they are not on snow… therefore they are cheaper!

3. Helicopter tour with glacier landing (epic excursion!)

Another one of the most epic Alaska excursions you can do in Skagway is a helicopter tour with a glacier landing.

Similar to glacier dog sledding, you’ll fly across mountains for a flightseeing tour that is amazingly memorable, and then the helicopter will do a wilderness landing on a glacier.

Then, you’ll have a chance to walk around on the glacier to see blue ice and maybe even blue ice waterfalls!

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Is Skagway the only cruise port to do a helicopter tour with glacier landing?

No, Skagway is not the only cruise port to do a helicopter tour with glacier landing. You can also do a helicopter tour in Juneau . If your cruise goes to or from Whittier or Seward and you’re spending a few days on land, you can also look for helicopter tours in Anchorage .

4. Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park visitor center (FREE + on your own)

The history of Skagway’s rise (and fall) can be linked to the American spirit of believing anything is possible and going after your dreams!

Skagway was a gateway town to the Yukon in Canada. At the end of the 1800s, there was big news across the US that there was gold in the Yukon. Suddenly, everyone wanted to find gold in the Yukon, and there was a “gold rush” in the Klondike, a region of the Yukon.

People arrived in Skagway to start their journey to the Yukon to search for gold. It was a very long and difficult journey to make it to the Yukon. Many people died. These people who went in search of gold were known as “stampeders.”

In the end, few people made it rich through gold in the Yukon. And in fact, it’s said that the people who got rich were those who were “mining the miners.” (aka people who were provided goods and services to the stampeders throughout their journey.) There is actually a former president’s grandfather who saw success during the Klondike Gold Rush by mining the miners!

You can learn more about the Klondike Gold Rush while you are in a Klondike Gold Rush gateway town of Skagway!

At the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park visitor center, you can learn about the gold rush through a film in the theater. Also check the park ranger program board to see the schedule of ranger talks for the day. (Make this your first stop in downtown Skagway so you can decide if you want to stop by later! There may be a talk at another historic building in Skagway.)

In addition to the visitor center there are several other historic buildings and informational signs throughout downtown Skagway that you can go to as part of your own Skagway walking tour. For example, you can go to the Moore Homestead !

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How to go to the Klondike Gold Rush visitor center

The Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park visitor center is located in downtown Skagway, which is a 10-15 minute walk from the cruise port.

It’s easy to go to on your own!

Klondike Gold Rush history in Seattle

If your Alaska cruise is from Seattle and you want to get started on learning about the Gold Rush history, you can visit the Seattle Unit of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park . Seattle was one of the ports that people set sail from in hopes of finding gold in the Yukon.

5. Yakutania Point (FREE + on your own)

The Yakutania Point Trail is a hiking trail that’s near Skagway cruise port and relatively easy. If you have a couple of hours, you can hike to Yakutania Point and you will get grand views of the waterway!

You can also keep hiking further to Smugglers Cove. Along the way, there’s a side trail that you can take that will lead to you the “hidden cove.”

On your way to the Yakutania Point Trail, you will walk across the Skagway footbridge. Make a note of the water level you see. If you decide to spend some time on the trail, then upon your return, you may notice the water level to be drastically different! The tidal swings are big in Alaska, so there can be a noticeable difference at high tide vs low tide.

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How to do the Yakutania Point Trail

The Yakutania Point Trail is within walking distance of the cruise port. The cruise ship pier that’s furthest away might be about a 20 minute walk to the start of the trail.

So you can hike to Yakutania Point on your own!

More hiking in Skagway

If you are an experienced hiker with all day in Skagway, then you can also look up AB Mountain. You’ll want to do this when there’s no snow at the top of the mountain, so it’s best as a summer hike. To get to the AB Mountain trail, you’ll start off hiking the Yakutania Point Trail. You’ll see a sign pointing in the direction of the AB Mountain trail.

6. Lower Reid Falls + Gold Rush Cemetery (CHEAP + on your own)

You can go to Lower Reid Falls to get an up close view of waterfalls in Skagway! It can be a quick hike, or you can some some more time at the waterfalls and stream by sitting around and listening to the flow of the water!

The trail to the waterfalls starts from the Gold Rush Cemetery, which is a spot to visit if you want to see some more Klondike Gold Rush history.

From the Gold Rush Cemetery, you can take a short trail through the forest that will lead you to waterfalls.

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How to go to Lower Reid Falls

If you want to get in your steps, then you can walk an hour to get to the Lower Reid Falls trailhead for free. ( map )

Otherwise, you can take a shuttle to get to the Gold Rush Cemetery from downtown Skagway. The Gold Rush Cemetery shuttle is $5 one way.

Is Skagway the only cruise port to see waterfalls?

No, Skagway is not the only cruise port to see waterfalls. There are other Alaska waterfalls you can see during your cruise, including waterfalls in Juneau !

7. Pullen Creek salmon (FREE + on your own)

Pullen Creek can be a great spot to see salmon swimming if you’re in Skagway during salmon season. You might have a chance to see the salmon if you’re in Skagway from mid-July to early August.

How to go to Pullen Creek

Pullen Creek is within walking distance of the cruise port. You can look for the Pullen Creek Streamwalk on google maps, and then you can continue walking towards the Dewey Lake trailhead. Along the way there will be more opportunities to get close to the creek and see the salmon swimming! ( map )

Is Skagway the only cruise port to see salmon?

No, Skagway is not the only cruise port to see salmon swimming. In fact, the best cruise port to see salmon swimming in the creek is Ketchikan! If you’re there during salmon season, you will be able to see salmon jumping up the ladder !

8. Lower Dewey Lake + beyond (FREE + on your own)

If you want a longer hike in Skagway, then you might want to do the Lower Dewey Lake Trail, or another trail that’s a part of the Dewey Lake trail system. Depending on your time and ambition, you can hike to Lower Dewey Lake and more.

The Dewey Lake trail system hikes include:

Lower Lake Loop (Lower Dewey Lake)
Icy Lake + Upper Reid Falls
Sturgill’s Landing
Upper Dewey + Devil’s Punchbowl

If you would like to feel better about the conditions of the trail before you start your hike, it’s a good idea to stop by the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park visitor center and ask the park rangers about trail conditions!

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How to go to Dewey Lake trailhead

Your hike to Lower Dewey Lake starts at the Dewey Lake trailhead.

The Dewey Lake trailhead is within walking distance of the cruise port!

9. Red Onion Saloon (on your own)

For more of Skagway’s Klondike Gold Rush history,

The Red Onion Saloon exists because Skagway was a gateway town for the Klondike Gold Rush. During the gold rush, it was a part of the red light district of Skagway.

It’s still open today as a gold rush era historic site, and it now operates as a brothel museum, as well as bar and restaurant with Alaskan beers .

How to go to Red Onion Saloon

The Red Onion Saloon is a bar and restaurant so you can freely go to eat and/or order a drink as you would for any other restaurant. See the menu .

If tickets are still available, you can also just show up to do a 20 minute brothel museum tour for $20. Otherwise, if you really want to make sure you can go, you can book tickets through the Red Onion Saloon website .

You can also do Red Onion Saloon historic tours as part of a combination tour through the cruise line. Look for excursions named Ghosts & Goodtime Girls Walking Tour (which you can also book direct), Red Onion Saloon Breakfast and Historical City Tour, and Best of Skagway. (Check the descriptions to confirm!)

10. Puppies in the Piazza (Princess only)

This is only available on Princess cruise ships, so why does it make a list of things to do in Skagway?! Because this activity is only available when the cruise ship is docked in Skagway cruise port!

Puppies in the Piazza is one of the many Alaska-specific onboard experiences Princess offers on Alaska cruises!

The puppies are little sled dogs that are in training for big dog sledding races, including the 1,000 mile iditarod race . The piazza is the atrium of the cruise ship.

You can be a part of the training of sled dogs when you are on the cruise ship! You help to train the puppies by cuddling with them.

The training that you are helping out with is for the puppies to get used to socialization with strangers. During the iditarod race, the dogs need to be used to strangers handling them. So getting the puppies interacting with strangers while they are young helps them with that.

So by cuddling with the puppies, you are possibly helping to develop future iditarod champions!

skagway alaska: things to do in skagway cruise port, princess cruise ships. puppies in the piazza princess

What time is Puppies in the Piazza?

In the weeks leading up to your cruise, the Princess app will start populating with activities for your cruise. Look for journeyview on the app. Being so far in advance, it can change all the way up to the day you actually get to Skagway, but this is the earliest way you can know what time puppies in the piazza MIGHT be during your cruise.

Because the puppies come on (and leave) while the cruise ship is in port, it means that if puppies in the piazza is important to you, you’ll want to make sure you are on the ship and not out and about in Skagway.

Once your cruise has started, you can expect that the time you see in the Princess app for puppies in the piazza is set. (Although, all cruise activities can still change, but it’s the best way to know!) The night before you get to Skagway, you’ll also get a paper version of the onboard cruise activities, and you can look for the scheduled time for puppies in the piazza that way too.

I have only been on Princess cruise ships when Skagway is in port all day, and puppies in the piazza has always been in the late afternoon to early evening.

Northern lights in Skagway

If your Alaska cruise is in September or October, or possibly even late August, you might be able to see the northern lights from the cruise ship on the night you set sail from Skagway! If you’re like many people, Skagway is the northernmost cruise port that you’ll visit, so it can be your best chance to see them. The key is that skies need to be clear!

There is an aurora forecast which can tell you if there’s a better chance to see northern lights, but you might be able to see dim northern lights if the aurora forecast shows low chance.

There are many aurora apps you can have fun with (free and paid), but you can check the free aurora forecast on the University of Alaska Fairbanks website . Note not only the obvious thick green band, but also the lower thin green line which indicates the lowest point (southernmost point) you might see a bit of northern lights. You can look for Juneau, and Skagway is just north of there.

Also, learn how to use the NIGHT MODE on your phone camera. You can sometimes see the northern lights through your phone even if you can’t see it yourself. You can play around with night mode tonight outside your house just to see the different types of pictures it takes with night mode vs regular. The difference is quite interesting!

Yes I’ve seen northern lights from a cruise ship! … from my phone 🤣

HAPPY DOING THINGS IN SKAGWAY CRUISE PORT!

DIY Yukon jeep tour
Gold Rush scooter tour
British Columbia wilderness canoe tour with scenic drive from Skagway
Private Yukon tour with summer dog sledding camp to pet the puppies (note this dog sledding camp is not on a glacier)
Full-day Klondike Highway and Yukon tour

Top Things to Do in the Port of Skagway, Alaska on a Cruise

There are many amazing things that you can experience in the port of Skagway, Alaska. We are going to discuss the top sights, experiences, and foods that you can discover there while on your cruise vacation.

Overview & History of Skagway, Alaska:

The area had not been settled and was still part of the untouched wilderness in the west. There were a few native American tribes in the region, but for the most part nobody lived there.

That is until gold was discovered in the area in 1896. Once gold was discovered, all bets were off and people flocked to the area.

The gold was actually discovered in the Klondike region of the Yukon Territory, which is about 600 miles from Skagway.

However, you had to travel through Skagway in order to get up to the area where gold was discovered. This made Skagway a very popular stopping point on the way up.

By the next year, Skagway had grown to a population of over 8,000 people. With another 1,000 miners passing through the town each week.

This caused demand for growth and necessities such as stores, homes, saloons, and, of course, bordellos. By 1898, just two years later, the town of Skagway had a population of over 30,000 people.

During this time, it was like most of the old west, a lawless town. One of the members of the mounted police described it as, “little better than a hell on Earth.”

Due to the fact that the gold was so far away they started building the railroad. This is known as the White Pass Yukon Railway, which is still there for us to see and ride on.

Unfortunately, by the time the railroad was finished all of the gold was gone. People started leaving the area because there was no point in staying.

By the early 1900s, there were only about 3,000 people left in Skagway. While most people left the area with no money, there were a few that struck it rich and began their family’s empire there.

For example, John Nordstrom (Nordstrom Department stores) arrived towards the end of the gold rush and actually did find gold.

He took his money and opened his first department store. The town pretty much died out until 1985 when it became a port stop for the cruise lines.

This helped revive the town and allows visitors to experience what a real old west town is like. Today the town has under 1,000 full-time residents and the area’s number one source of revenue is from tourism.

How do you get to the port of Skagway from the cruise ship?

The ships dock about ¼ mile from the center of town so it’s a very easy walk. You can easily go back and forth between the heart of the town and the ship without any problem.

You can also ride the shuttle if you have mobility issues. You won’t need to worry about arranging your own transportation unless you want to see some of the sights outside of town.

Things to See and Do in Skagway, Alaska:

The downtown area of Skagway is very compact and simple to just stroll around and visit the different shops, museums, and restaurants during your visit.

1. Take a Free Guided Walking Tour of Skagway

Address: 291 Broadway (Skagway Visitor’s Center)
Hours: Mon-Fri 8am – 3pm
Sat-Sun Closed

The local park rangers offer free walking tours of the town. This is a great, affordable way to learn some of the history of the town and to get your bearings before strolling around on your own.

You will get to see a lot of the popular sights around town such as the Red Onion Saloon (famous brothel), the Moore’s homestead (oldest building in Skagway), and the Arctic Brotherhood Hall.

2. Take a ride on one of the Street Cars of Skagway

Office Location: 270 2nd Street
Departs: from the Pier by the Cruise Ships
Times: the tour runs several time each day between 8:30am and 3:15pm

If you want a fun and easy way to explore the town you can take a ride on the street car. This is a 90-minute tour led by some fast-talking guides that are all dolled up in period costumes.

This is a great alternative to the walking tours that you can take. It will give you all of the history and a way to see the sights and get a lay of the land.

You can take this tour and still have plenty of time to hang out on your own around time before heading back to the ship. Learn more about the Skagway Streetcar here .

3. Have a drink in the Red Onion Saloon

Address: Corner of 2nd & Broadway Streets
Hours: 10am to 10pm (Every day)

The Red Onion Saloon is one of the most popular places in the town of Skagway. It was once a brothel house in the town that has been turned into a saloon and restaurant where you can dine.

When you visit, all of the waitresses are dressed in period costumes and act in character as if it is still a brothel house.

You can pay to take a tour of the whole house and they will tell you the history of the place, the working girls, and the madame guide you around all of the rooms. You can learn more at check out the menu here .

4. See the Days of ’98 Show

Address: 590 Broadway

The Days of ’98 is the longest running show in Alaska. It began in 1923 and has been going ever since. The show is pretty much unchanged, so what you see now is the same as what the first patrons experienced when it debuted.

This is a vaudeville-style musical revue that features ragtime music, Can-Can dancers, and is a very humorous and funny show to enjoy.

It tells you the story of the birth of Skagway and the rise, and fall, of its most notorious outlaw Jefferson Randolph Smith (Soapy Smith).

The show runs several times throughout the day, so you can choose the one that works best for your schedule. It is about an hour long so it won’t take up a lot of your day.

You can definitely see it and still have time to enjoy the other sights in town. Whether you decide to see this show or not you will be able to get a sneak-peek just by walking down the street in town.

In the second story windows of the theater building you will get to enjoy the “lovely ladies” as they beckon you to come and join them inside.

You don’t have to worry it you have kids because it is a family-friendly show that you can all enjoy together. Visit their website to learn more here .

5. Take a ride on the White Pass Yukon Railway

This is the most popular excursion in the port of Skagway. This is a nice, relaxing ride that offers incredible views of the region.

You will ascend 3,000 feet above sea level on the 20-mile train ride outside of Skagway up to the White Pass Summit. The railroad is a bucket list item for many people who take a cruise to Alaska.

You get to see some of the sights from a different viewpoint and learn the history of the area. There are different options for this excursion such as combining it with a visit to a dog sled training camp or with a salmon bake, so you can choose the one that you like the best.

We recommend doing a combo tour so you can experience another part of the history and culture of the area.

Pro Tip: Most of the sights you will want to see are on the same side. If you are riding up to the summit, sit on the left side and if you are coming back down sit on the right side. However, there are cliffs so if you have a fear of heights then take that into account. Also, if you ride in the very last car there is a small balcony that you can go out on to get some really amazing pictures.

6. Go off-roading in a 4×4 Jeep

This is a great choice if you want a more adventurous and thrilling way to see some of the sights. You won’t see quite as much as you do on the train ride.

However, you still get to see many of the most popular sights in the area. Plus, it’s just a fun way to experience your stop in Skagway.

You will also have the opportunity to walk across the Yukon Suspension Bridge, which hangs 65 feet above raging rapids.

7. Go Zip-lining in Grizzly Falls

If you don’t care about seeing the sights and just want to have a fun, thrilling adventure then zip-lining is a great choice.

At 750 feet up, you will get to enjoy incredible views of the area and go over quite a few waterfalls as you speed along at 45mph. This is a great excursion to do as a family.

8. Embark on a Dog Sledding Ride

Looking for thrilling adventure that is unique, try out being a musher on a dog sledding ride. On this excursion will enjoy a scenic helicopter ride up to the glacier to visit the dog sledding camp.

You will get to meet professional mushers and their dogs. Afterwards, you will experience flying across the glacier on a dog sled ride.

You can choose to try your hand at mushing or just sit back and relax on the ride. No matter which you choose, this is an experience you will remember for a lifetime.

Pro Tip: There are two different versions for the dog sledding rides. One is up on the glacier and the other is at the dog training camp where the ride is on a dirt path. Make sure the one you choose is for the experience you want.

9. Hike the Chilkoot Trail

The Chilkoot Trail is one of the most famous gold mining trails in all of Alaska. If you love hiking this is a great way to see some amazing wildlife and scenery while also following in the footsteps of history.

The trail is very long, but you can do excursions where you hike just a portion of it combined with another adventure such as a float trip on the Taiya River.

Unique shops to visit while in Skagway:

While Skagway does have some of the same touristy shops as the other ports of call, it also offers some cool, unique shops that we wanted to highlight for you.

1. The Train Depot Building:

The train depot building has a train shop inside of it. They have some really cool souvenirs that you can buy. This is a must do stop for any train lovers.

2. Skagway’s Tru-Value Hardware Store

Address: 400 Broadway Street

This is a stop that most vacationers skip over because it is a hardware store. However, it’s worth a visit inside because it has some unique and different souvenirs that you can buy and take home.

It is right in the heart of town so it’s worth a stop inside to see what they currently have in stock.

3. Kirmse’s Emporium:

Address: Corner of 5th & Broadway Streets

This is a local business that highlights many of the local artists in the region. You can buy some unique pieces of art from sculptures to jewelry that are made by local artisans.

If you want to support the local economy and get an authentic piece of local art, this is a good place to check out and buy it.

What are the must try restaurants and foods in Skagway:

1. skagway brewing company:.

Address: 250 4th Avenue

The Skagway Brewing Company is a very popular place to eat for both visitors and locals. They have amazing fish & chips, so if you are in the mood for that definitely get them here.

This restaurant also has a really good selection of burgers, so even those who don’t like seafood will be happy with eating here.

You can also find a really great selection of craft beers to try. One that is really popular and worth tasting is the Spruce Tip Ale.

It gets its name due to the face that they make it with spruce tips instead of hops. This beer sells out a lot, but if you are lucky enough to be there when they have it definitely try it and see what you think.

Learn more and check out their menu here .

2. Skagway Fish Company

Address: 201 Congress Way

The Skagway Fish Company is right on the dock between the ship and the town. Even if you aren’t planning on going into town you can easily get off the ship and eat at this restaurant and then get right back on the ship.

This is where many of the ship’s crew will go to eat because they love it so much. If you are looking for delicious, fresh seafood then this is the place you want to dine at.

They have king crab legs, halibut fish & chips, and crab cakes. The restaurant also has a lot of really delicious comfort food options if you don’t want, or like, seafood.

3. Alaska Fudge Company

Address: 777 Broadway

This is where you need to stop if you want some delicious homemade fudge to enjoy while you are in port, or back on the ship.

They created really unique names for the different flavors of fudge to represent Alaska and the local region such as Glacier Bay and Mendenhall Mud.

The store also has different types of candy and treats for you to enjoy, but let’s be honest we go for the fudge.

What festivals & celebrations take place in Skagway?

The 4 th of july celebration:.

This is the main celebration that Skagway puts on during the cruise season. It’s an old-fashioned family fun event that has been taking place since 1898. In 1898 “Soapy” Smith head the parade through town.

This event includes different pie eating contests, horseshoe tournaments, egg tosses, and the highlight of the ducky derby race.

The ducky derby race consists of 1,500 little plastic ducks that will race down the river to the finish line. The winner wins $1,000. They will also randomly pick six other ducks and they will each win $100.

Which cruise lines have itineraries to Skagway?

Pretty much any cruise ship that goes to Alaska makes a stop in Skagway. It is one of the most popular ports of call so you are almost guaranteed to go there.

Pretty much all of the large, mainstream cruise lines go here such as Princess Cruises , Celebrity Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line .

As well as some of the luxury lines including Regent Seven Seas, Crystal Cruises, and Windstar Cruises . As well as some of the smaller cruise lines such as Uncruise Adventures .

Skagway may be a smaller port, but it is chalk full of history and adventure. Whether you want an adrenaline rushing activity or just stroll around the town and shop, you can.

This was my favorite port of call on our cruise to Alaska. The moment you step off the ship and enter the town you feel like you have been transported back in time.

While the other ports are quaint, they feel more touristy. Skagway has that authentic feel to it.

Have you been to Skagway? Do you agree with our recommendations and overall view of this port of call? Let us know if the comments below.

Best Things to Do in Skagway Cruise Port

This article may contain referral links. Read our DISCLOSURE

Is Skagway cruise port on your Alaskan cruise itinerary? More than likely, it is.

There’s good reason for the Southeast Alaska town’s popularity. The combination of colorful history, a walkable downtown and outdoor opportunities can’t be beat.

My Itchy Travel Feet featured writer, Debi Lander of ByLanderSea , recently visited. She writes about the best things to do in Skagway cruise port.

If you cruise Alaska’s wondrous Inside Passage (and you should, even if you’re not an avid cruiser), most likely, you will visit Skagway. Despite the ugly sounding name, the small town packs a colorful punch for tourists. In fact, the remote city thrives on tourism.

Skagway is home to a gold-rush-era story, preserved as part of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park ( website ). Downtown Boardwalk Avenue features historic shops and restaurants, wooden sidewalks, locals in period costumes, and restored buildings and museums.

In addition, the White Pass & Yukon Railroad runs vintage locomotives that climb 3,000 ft. up 20 miles of steep grades before stopping at White Pass summit to admire the breathtaking mountain views.

Table of Contents

Skagway History

Before stepping back to the heyday of the gold rush days, let’s review the background and history of Skagway, Alaska . The Tlingit (tribe) resided in the area and created a trade route with the Athabascans.

A United States naval captain negotiated with the Tlingit to share the trail with gold stampeders. Tlingit guides accompanied the first party in May 1880 and transported the miners’ gear for a fee. This trip set the foundation for the Tlingit packing business, which thrived until the gold rush.

The town of Dyea arose from a small trading post to a major port in 1897 afterword of the Klondike gold discovery. Several trailside communities of tents and shacks soon developed along the trail.

Dyea sat closest to the Chilkoot Trail, a thousand-foot climb that some considered “the meanest 33 miles in history.” It remained the prevailing route to the Klondike until an April 1898 avalanche took 60 lives.

Skagway’s torturous White Pass lacked the steep slopes of the Chilkoot but was 10 miles longer and had its own obstacles. The trail was clogged with mud during the wet fall months of 1897, making it impassable at some spots.

As Tappan Adney, a journalist writing about 1897 in The Klondike Stampede, said, “Whichever trail you took, you wish you had taken the other.”

Adding to the trail’s difficulty was a mandate from Canada requiring each man to bring a year’s supply of food to prevent starvation. I can’t imagine gathering all the needed food and gear today, let alone in an isolated place.

The equipment weighed close to a ton, which most men carried themselves, moving it in back and forth stages. Their progression proved slow and led them over the steep pass in the bitter cold. Those who persisted and reached Lake Bennet on the other side then sailed 500 miles down to the Klondike River to Dawson City .

According to the National Park Service:

“Because the Chilkoot Trail was so challenging, most stayed in Skagway and pitched tents. While the town’s overcrowding increased, so did the prosperity of local businesses.”

Skagway became infamous for its lawlessness. More than 70 saloons thrived, giving the city the nickname “roughest place in the world.” The main rabble-rouser was Jefferson Randolph “Soapy” Smith. He masterminded a nine-month reign of gambling, prostitution, thievery, and murder.

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White Pass & Yukon Railroad

In 1898, construction began on the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad and finished in July 1900. Some 35,000 workers labored to lay the 110 miles of track.

It is recognized as an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark, awarded to engineering feats like the Panama Canal , the Eiffel Tower, and the Statue of Liberty. Sadly, the railroad was too late for the gold rush peak as many prospectors had already moved on. Dyea became a ghost town.

Gold mining production in the region peaked in 1903 after heavier equipment was brought in. Since then, the Klondike has been mined on and off.

Gold fever brought an estimated 100,000 prospectors to the isolated region with big dreams, but most of them failed. The population dropped down to just 872 in 1910.

Early Tourism

Another character in Skagway’s past is Martin Itjen, a stampeder in 1898 who became the unofficial director of tourism. Itjen held many jobs, including miner, railroad employee, hotel operator, the town’s undertaker, Ford motor car dealer, and a tour guide.

Soapy had been a friend, and Itjen helped keep his legend alive. He built a tour bus from an old Ford bus and referred to it as a streetcar, giving town tours.

In 1935, as a great publicity stunt, Martin took his “streetcar” to Hollywood to promote Skagway tourism. He called on Mae West to “come up and visit him sometime.” The newsmen and photographers loved it.

During WWII, the U.S. Army recognized the importance of Skagway’s location and took over the railroad. One soldier summed it up, “the work was too steep for a goat and too cold for a polar bear. “

After the war, Skagway residents again turned to tourism to help boost the town’s economy. They hoped the National Park Service would be interested.

Those connections weren’t granted until June 1962, when the city and the surrounding area became a National Historic Landmark. In 1976, after numerous studies, President Gerald Ford signed a bill authorizing the creation of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park.

Looking for things to do on your Alaska cruise? Check out our Alaska shore excursion reviews .

Skagway cruise port

Skagway continues as a shipping and supply center but depends on tourism. The population (from 2019 records) hovers today around 800-1,000. I suspect it dropped even lower during the pandemic.

Every year, Skagway welcomes an astonishing million tourists. Most come in the summer on cruise ships with up to five boats per day.

More than 8,000 visitors (10 times the town’s resident population) make Skagway into a modern-day boomtown on the busiest days. Many take the National Park Ranger’s free, 45-minute tours, given up to five times a day.

A September cruise to Skagway

I arrived in the fall of 2021 on Royal Caribbean’s mega-ship, the Oasis of the Seas . I watched nature’s beauty as we sailed into Skagway’s majestic deep-water harbor surrounded by snow-capped mountains.

Autumn colors dotted the hillsides, and the little town looked inviting. On that September day, travelers on my boat were lucky; we were the only cruise ship in port.

I disembarked, choosing to make the long walk into town, although trams were available. My lengthy saunter on Congress Way took me past numerous signs that explained the town’s gold rush history.

Before long, I turned the corner and neared the first of the National Park buildings. The visitor center is housed in front of the 1898 railroad depot. As always, the park service offers learning opportunities through descriptive exhibits, a film, ranger presentations, or guided walking tours.

I signed up for an afternoon Street Car Tour; therefore, I just wanted to check out the lay of the land in the morning. I meandered along and found an old rail car and a railroad snowplow. Then, I headed to Broadway, the main street, where many businesses were just returning to pre-Covid activities.

Most stores offered enticing but higher-priced collectibles, not tacky souvenirs. Others from my ship roamed amongst the hand-woven baskets, fossils, walrus tusks, silver jewelry, and native arts. While I’m not big on shopping, these items interested me even if I wasn’t buying anything.

Of course, I also found purveyors selling food and snacks like the Klondike Doughboy, a large circle of fried bread coated in sugar.

The town streets feel like an old western movie set, but the mountain scenery shouts Alaska. I stopped for a photo-op at a Totem Pole, then slowly made my way back to the boat, snapping photos of the colorful buildings.

A S.M.A.R.T. shuttle bus leaves from the pier and follows a set schedule for anyone not up to a long walk. The buses stop at popular tourist spots in the town, so riders can hop on and off for just $5 a day.

Need help packing for your Alaska cruise? Check out our Alaska Cruise Packing list !

Skagway excursions

Cruise ships offer many pre-arranged excursions, but you can also hire a tour guide and outfitter on your own ( book ahead with Viator). Make sure to confirm the time you must be back on the ship before taking off.

Pick from outdoor adventures such as helicopter flightseeing tours, a helicopter tour that includes landing on a glacier, or one that offers a dog-sled ride. You can hire a guide for hiking, wildlife viewing (you might see a bald eagle), or a photography tour. Take to the water on a sea kayak or perhaps a scenic float down the Taiya River.

White Pass & Yukon Railroad The White Pass & Yukon Railroad, Originally built in 1898, offers the most popular tour ( book independently ). Passengers leave the depot aboard the historic narrow-gauge railway.

Excursions range from 2 hours to full-day, with options for hiking and camping drop-offs and connections to other Yukon destinations. White Pass sits at the top of the steep climb at 2,888 feet, also the international boundary between the United States and Canada.

Explore Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park

The National Park ( website ) manages four units within 13,191-acres that encompasses the historical district in Skagway, the nearby ghost town of Dyea, and the famous Chilkoot and White Pass Trails.

True to its mission, the National Park Service restored and preserved many of Skagway’s original buildings so the public could more easily grasp the past.

The J. Bernard Moore House, built by the city’s founder, William Moore, now shines in its 1904 glory. It is furnished with many original family possessions. You get a true sense of life in an Alaska gold rush era.

Built-in 1898, the Mascot Saloon, one of the town’s earliest brothels, functioned as one of 70 saloons open during Skagway’s heyday or “the roughest place in the world.” Today, Mascot is the only saloon in Alaska that doesn’t serve beer, wine, or a drop of whiskey.

Instead, the restored bar serves as a museum that examines the vices of gambling, drinking, and prostitution. Here’s your chance to learn some shady history.

I was intrigued by a building faced with thousands of pieces of driftwood. I heard it is possibly the most photographed building in Alaska. The former Arctic Brotherhood Hall now functions as the Skagway Convention & Visitors Bureau. You can’t miss it! The facade features 8,833 pieces of driftwood that were attached in 1899 and extensively renovated, piece-by-piece, in 2005.

Visit the Gold Rush Cemetery

You can’t visit Skagway without hearing about Soapy Smith and his misdeeds. However, his career was short-lived, ending in a shoot-out with Frank Reid, the city engineer, in 1898.

When it was time for my afternoon tour, I boarded a converted yellow ‘streetcar’ on wheels. We rolled down Broadway, traveling to the cemetery.

Our animated and costumed tour guide recalled the town’s history and the story of Soapy and Frank Reid in great detail. She explained how the devilish man took advantage of the naive stampeders. She told how Frank staged a gunfight with Soapy. Soapy died that night, but Frank lingered for twelve days.

The tour group visited their graves and other gold panners. Unfortunately, the tour didn’t allow time for a short hike uphill to Reid Falls , which cascades 300 feet down the mountainside.

We did, however, ride up to the Skagway Scenic Overlook for panoramic views of the town and harbor, including the site of our massive cruise ship.

As we drove around, I noticed beautiful gardens at many homes. The summer days are very long, and plants grow big.

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Experience the Chilkoot Trail

Serious hikers and backpackers often visit the nearby ghost town of Dyea. Today, Dyea still serves as the starting point for hikes on the famous 33-mile Chilkoot Trail, one of Alaska’s most popular backpacking routes. Allow 3-4 days to complete this challenging adventure –and then imagine attempting it in winter.

If you plan to hike Chilkoot, stop at the Trail Center for information and permits. More than 10,000 attempt the trail hike, backpack, and run each year.

Cruisers may hike a portion of the Chilkoot Trail on a half-day guided shore excursion that includes a float trip.

Attend the Days of ’98 Show

The Days of ’98 Show has entertained audiences for over 100 years. The evening melodrama begins with mock gambling and ends with Soapy Smith and his slippery gang.

Northern Lights Photography

Skagway’s remote location offers a grand opportunity for astral or milky way photography and the chance to see the Northern Lights between mid-September and late April, peaking in March.

Check for best Alaska cruise prices here .

Getting to Skagway

While most visitors to Skagway arrive on cruise ships, Skagway is also accessible via the Alaska Marine Highway ferry system.

Several companies provide air-taxi service between Skagway and other Inside Passage communities, with daily scheduled flights between Juneau and Skagway.

Skagway is also one of the few Inside Passage communities accessible by road using the Klondike Highway, which crosses the U.S./Canadian border into the Yukon Territory. This route is part of the Golden Circle road trip that travels between Skagway and Haines (or vice versa).

What to wear on an Alaska cruise

Do you need help packing for your Alaska cruise? Check out my Alaska cruise packing tips .

Here’s a packing list that should cover a 2-week cruise in Alaska. Feel free to print this out. One of these days, I’ll create a fancy downloadable for you (once I learn how) so stay tuned.

1 pair water resistant safari pants . On 14-day Alaska cruises, make this 2 pair of safari pants.
1 pair jeans for on the ship or walking around ports. Don’t wear jeans on active excursions, especially if you’ll be around water or where it might rain. Nothing is worse—or colder—than wearing soggy, wet jeans.
2 safari shirts that go with safari pants or the jeans. On warm days, roll the sleeves up.
2 long-sleeve crew-neck shirts (or turtlenecks) to layer underneath safari shirts or to wear with a quilted vest. Or make this one long-sleeve crew-neck shirt and one short-sleeve solid color tee, just in case the weather is warmer than you think it will be.
Quilted sleeveless vest for layering with a long-sleeve shirt over jeans or safari pants.
Fleece jacket , choose a colorful one for showing up against snow scenes in photos.
Water-resistant jacket , same advice as for the fleece jacket—color rules!
1 set of thermal underwear. You probably won’t need these however they don’t take up much room so pack them anyway.
Gloves, glove liners, hat, neck warmer, warm socks
Shoe covers that have treads . Wear them on wet, muddy excursions or in port when it’s raining.
Lightweight hiking shoes that can also be used for walking laps on deck. You can also use these for the gym in a pinch. Wear these shoes on travel day.
Comfortable pants/top for travel day (wear them to and from the cruise). This can double as an extra outfit for on the ship or port days.
Two pair of pants: black and another color. Gray is good. Or if you’re in a summery mood bring white ones.
Five tops—make one a cute summer sweater— that go with both pair of pants, which makes ten outfits. On a 14-day cruise, repeat 3 of your favorite looks. For 1-week Alaska cruises, three tops will do.
1 pair of shoes that will go with all outfits. Pewter flats are a great choice if you can find them. And, if you do, let me know as my Cole-Hahn favorite pewter shoes are almost worn out.
Optional: 1 pair of fancier black pants and sparkly top with appropriate shoes for formal night.

Expedition cruisers might consider bringing a heavier jacket, but check with your cruise line, first. Many small ship luxury expeditions provide a jacket to passengers.

Of course you’ll need room in luggage to bring it home. Alan and I always forget that part, which is why you’ll see us wearing ours through the airport.

Don’t forget these must-have items for an Alaska cruise

Bathing suit for the hot tub, yes you’ll enjoy a soak while admiring the scenery. You’ll probably want to pack a coverup, or wear a t-shirt over your suit that can double as a workout top.
Flip-flops or sandals for walking to and from the hot tub (or pool). Make them cute enough to double as daywear or nightwear shoes, especially if the weather surprises you with a warm spell.
Baseball hat or sun hat for lounging on deck, on your balcony, or on a sunny wildlife watching excursion.
1 pair pajamas. I cheat here by wearing a t-shirt and shorts that I can also use in the gym. If they become sweaty, hand wash with TSA-approved laundry packets. Using the ship’s laundromat is another option, if your ship has one. That’s Alan’s job.
Sunscreen to protect your skin from bright sun reflecting off snow.
Insecticide repellent towelettes for those pesky gnats, flies and mosquitos.
And don’t forget your underwear. I’m leaving the amount and type up to you.

If you’re worried about sweaty clothing or spilling food on clothing, bring a package of laundry packets for hand washing clothes. That’s what I do. Of course that means the clothing that you bring should wash easily by hand, dry quickly and require no ironing.

If you’re cruising on an Alaska expedition ship, reduce this list by one pair of pants and 2 tops. The relaxed style of expedition cruising means you will wear less. Some adventure cruises are so busy that you’ll find yourself wearing safari pants and a top to dinner because there isn’t time to change clothes.

Alaska cruise shopping list

Is your Alaska cruise coming up quickly? This Amazon shopping list makes it easy for you to purchase what you need all in one place. Happy shopping!

Kirkland Signature Ladies' Water-Repellent Wind Resistant Softshell Jacket

I wear my red Kirkland Signature jacket on almost every adventure. The lining adds a bit of warmth, plus the outer shell is water repellent and wind resistant. It fits easily over a fleece jacket if you need to layer up for additional warmth.

Columbia Women's Benton Springs Full Zip Jacket, Soft Fleece with Classic Fit

Wear a fleece jacket over a turtleneck or henley shirt and you'll be warm enough for most Alaska cruise adventures. Slip a rain jacket over it to stay dry or for additional warmth. That's what I do!

Columbia Women's Saturday Trail Pant, Water and Stain Resistant

A trail pant that's water and stain resistant? Yes, please. What a perfect addition to your Alaska cruise wear.

Amazon Essentials Women's Mid-Weight Puffer Vest, Navy, Large

Layer a quilted vest over long sleeve turtleneck or short-sleeve shirt for those days when you don't need a coat but a little bit of warmth around your core makes for a comfortable cruise excursion.

Merrell Lightweight Hiking Shoes

Lightweight hiking shoes double as fitness shoes on my Alaska cruises. Although, with all the fun Alaska activities, who has time to work out in the ship's gym?

Waterproof Rain Boot Shoe Cover

Packing shoe covers that have treads is a smart move. These are perfect for covering lightweight hiking shoes rather than bringing heavy waterproof boots. And the treads provide sure footing.

EmeTerm Motion Sickness Band

When the seas get rocky, I put on the EmeTerm anti-nausea wristband. It really works! The motion sickness band is rechargeable and comes with conductive gel. Put this tiny tens-type unit to work on your seasickness.

Cliganic Mosquito Repellent Bracelets

Clignaic Mosquito Repellent Bracelets come in a 10 Pack. The DEET-Free bands are Individually wrapped making them convenient for travel. And the bands can be worn more than once.

Scratch those itchy travel feet!

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Best things to do in Skagway from a cruise ship 🏔 + free on your own 🏔 One day in Skagway 🏔 Alaska cruise travel blog

You can spend one day in Skagway by doing Alaska’s most popular scenic train ride in the morning, and then walk around downtown Skagway in the afternoon.

Downtown Skagway is walkable from the cruise port, and you can explore the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park.

There are also some epic Alaska excursions you can do when you are in Skagway cruise port!

best things to do in skagway. how to spend one day in skagway. skagway is walkable from the cruise ship

I arrived to Skagway by cruise ship on 2 Princess cruises in May 2023.

Below is basically what I did in Skagway during each of the cruises!

Your experience may vary!

things to do in skagway from a cruise ship. ncl cruise ship in skagway. norwegian encore.

What is Skagway known for?

Skagway is best known for the White Pass Railway that takes you through the mountains by train to the White Pass summit and beyond!

Skagway is also known for being able to explore Alaska’s Gold Rush history through the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park .

You can also do an epic helicopter tour in Skagway to see mountains and glaciers from above.

You can make it a helicopter tour with a glacier walk to see blue ice (and blue icefalls if you’re lucky!), and you can also make it a helicopter tour to go glacier dog sledding in Skagway .

Skagway is one of the best cruise ports for a dog sledding tour in Alaska .

There are also hikes that you can do in Skagway on your own for free, like Yakutania Point and Lower Dewey Lake.

One of the most famous historic restaurants in Skagway is the Red Onion Saloon .

things to do in skagway: white pass railway skagway train. best skagway excursions from a cruise ship

What’s going on with Skagway cruise port?

Affecting the 2023 Alaska cruise season in Skagway is a big rock at the top of the hill that may or may not fall onto a cruise ship pier some time soon.

skagway cruise port shuttle: do you need a shuttle in skagway cruise port?

Because of concern that the big rock will fall at any moment, if your cruise ship is docked at the pier closest to this big rock hill, you cannot walk the entirety of the pier.

That’s because if you were to walk it, you would be walking on the pier in the direct spot of where the rock could fall.

And so, if you are docked at this pier, you have to either move very quickly on the pier (land shuttle) or avoid it altogether (water shuttle).

It’s also possible that you might not be docked at a pier that’s affected by the rock at the top of the hill.

In which case, you won’t need a shuttle directly from the cruise ship at all.

So, just because you’re going to Skagway doesn’t necessarily mean that you’ll need a shuttle.

See more about taking a Skagway cruise port shuttle .

Whale watching in Skagway from the cruise ship?!

When I was in Skagway on May 17, 2023, there was a whale right near the cruise ships all day long!

Okay, so I wasn’t at the cruise port all day long to know if it was actually there all day long.

But as I was on the water shuttle waiting for it to leave the cruise ship, there was some great whale watching. At that time I saw a whale’s tail several times!

And, when I was on the Yakutania Point Trail in the afternoon looking off towards the cruise ship, I could see a whale several times.

And then, there was also some great whale watching in the evening as I was on the water shuttle returning to the cruise ship! At that time, I saw the whale lunge feeding several times! (You can see its mouth come up to the surface.)

Because of this, I can only imagine that it was there all day long!

So it was FREE whale watching in Skagway!!

So, when you are on the cruise ship, be on the lookout for whales!

Maybe it will be there when you are there too!

Skagway is one of the best cruise ports for:

Dog sledding in Alaska
Helicopter tours in Alaska

More below about my experience in Skagway cruise port!

DIY Yukon jeep tour
Gold Rush scooter tour
Private Yukon tour with summer dog sledding camp to pet the puppies
Full-day Klondike Highway and Yukon tour

Things to do in Skagway for a perfect time in Skagway cruise port

White Pass Railway
Klondike Highway
Helicopter tour
Walk across Meade Glacier (part of helicopter tour)
Yakutania Point Trail
Skagway footbridge
Dog sledding on Denver Glacier (part of helicopter tour)

This is what I did when in Skagway!

skagway cruise itinerary. skagway in may. how much time in skagway cruise port

1. White Pass Railway

The White Pass Railway is the famous Skagway train.

By far the most popular thing to do in Skagway is to take the train to the White Pass summit and beyond!

You can do the White Pass railway as a standalone excursion, or there are many different combination tours you can do that includes the White Pass train.

2. Klondike Highway

things to do in skagway: klondike highway. best skagway excursions from a cruise ship

You can do the Klondike Highway as a standalone excursion, or you can do it as a combination tour.

I did a combination tour of driving the Klondike Highway up to the White Pass summit (and beyond!), and then taking the train back to Skagway.

Princess excursions in Skagway:

Klondike Highway + White Pass Railway (I booked this one)
Klondike Highway by bicycle

3. Helicopter tour

things to do in skagway: skagway helicopter tour of juneau icefield. best skagway excursions from a cruise ship

You can do a helicopter tour in Skagway to see the Juneau icefield, glaciers, and snow-capped mountains.

You can make the helicopter ride a standalone excursion, or make it even more epic and add a wilderness landing on a glacier!

4. Meade Glacier walk

things to do in skagway: skagway glacier walk. best skagway excursions from a cruise ship

You won’t choose a helicopter tour based on a specific glacier, as that will be up to the pilot and the conditions of the day.

My helicopter tour made a wilderness landing at Meade Glacier.

We walked around on the glacier, saw blue ice, and saw glacier waterfalls!

things to do in skagway: skagway glacier walk. skagway helicopter with wilderness landing, meade glacier. best skagway excursions from a cruise ship

Princess shore excursion I booked for Skagway: Glacier Discovery by helicopter

5. Yakutania Point

things to do in skagway on your own: yakutania point. best skagway hikes.

If you want to do Skagway on your own that includes a little bit of hiking, you can hike to Yakutania Point .

Another well-known hike near the Skagway cruise port is the Dewey Lake Trail. This is a bit harder than the Yakutania Point hike because you are hiking up.

When I was sitting on the Skagway water shuttle, I also talked to the Princess naturalist who said AB Mountain is a good hike later in the season when there’s no snow if you have all day. When I asked what “all day” is, he said maybe 5.5 hours.

6. Skagway footbridge

things to do in skagway on your own: skagway footbridge

If you have an hour or so to spare, the Skagway footbridge can be an easy walk from the cruise port.

If you’re going to Yakutania Point or Smugglers Cove, you’ll go across the Skagway footbridge to get there.

Otherwise, you can also just make it a walk just to go to the bridge for the views.

If you’ll be spending a few hours on the trails, it will also be interesting to take note of the water level at the Skagway footbridge as you make your way across the bridge.

Southeast Alaska is known for having big tidal changes, and this can be seen from the Skagway footbridge too.

There was a noticeable difference in the water level when I first went across the bridge and when I returned.

7. Denver Glacier dog sledding

things to do in skagway: skagway dog sledding on glacier. best skagway excursions from a cruise ship

The dog sledding tour I did went to Denver Glacier.

This was another helicopter tour with a wilderness landing on a glacier.

things to do in skagway: skagway dog sledding on glacier. skagway helicopter with wilderness landing, denver glacier. best skagway excursions from a cruise ship

Princess shore excursion I booked for Skagway: Dog sledding and glacier helicopter flightseeing

How I did one day in Skagway (x2)

Skagway cruise port day #1 (sapphire princess).

In short, this was the planned one day in Skagway for my Alaska cruise on the Sapphire Princess:

morning excursion: Klondike Highway + White Pass Railway
lunch: back on the cruise ship
afternoon excursion: helicopter + glacier walk

And this is basically how it worked out!

Both of my Skagway excursions were booked through Princess.

Just to give you an idea, here is how I spent my one day in Skagway during the first cruise!

7:45am: Meeting time in Princess Theater on the cruise ship for Klondike Highway + White Pass railway tour
8:30am: Started the drive up the Klondike Highway
9:30am: Arrived at train station in Fraser BC to get on the White Pass Railway
10:10am: Departed Fraser BC to take train back to Skagway
12:05pm: Arrived in Skagway
12:35pm: Arrived back on cruise ship to eat lunch
2pm: Meeting time at the end of the pier off the cruise ship for helicopter + glacier walk tour
2:45pm: Got on the helicopter for a scenic flight across mountains and glaciers!
3:10pm: Arrived for a wilderness landing on Meade Glacier to walk around and see blue ice and glacier waterfalls!
3:45pm: Got back on the helicopter for flight back to Skagway
4:10pm: Arrived back in Skagway
5pm: Arrived back on the cruise ship after a (very) quick walk around town

The time in Skagway cruise port during this cruise was 7am to 8:30pm with a back-on-board time of 8pm.

Because the cruise ship was docked at the back of the railroad dock, a land shuttle was required to get from the cruise ship to the end of the pier.

In the morning, I got on a shuttle with my excursion, so it was quick.

All times I used the shuttle on my own, I had minimal wait going both ways, so I didn’t think the shuttle was a big deal at all.

See more about my Alaska cruise on the Sapphire Princess: 11-day Alaska cruise from Vancouver roundtrip

Skagway cruise port day #2 (Majestic Princess)

Here is roughly how I planned my one day in Skagway for my Alaska cruise on the Majestic Princess:

morning excursion: helicopter + dog sledding tour
lunch: go back to the cruise ship
afternoon on my own: yakutania point and smugglers cove

The Skagway excursion was booked through Princess.

The cruise ship was docked at the front of the railroad dock, so a water shuttle was required to get to land.

Well, my plan was doomed from the start because one of the water shuttles the ship was going to use had issues.

They ended up borrowing a water shuttle from another Princess cruise ship that was in Skagway, the Crown Princess.

This seemed to be the reason for the incredible delay of almost all Princess shore excursions leaving from the Princess Theater in the morning.

Although I did talk to someone who seemed to have done one of the earliest excursions and they had no issues, by the time I arrived at the Princess Theater for my meeting time, there was a major delay in getting on the water shuttle.

This delay resulted in me arriving on shore to be told that I missed my excursion because I was late.

They rescheduled the tour for late afternoon.

So I went back to the cruise ship since I was not mentally prepared to immediately go hike. 🤪

That and I wanted to take my daypack with water on the hike, which I did not have with me since I intended to go back to the cruise ship before doing the hike.

So then my day in Skagway became something like this:

lunch on the cruise ship
afternoon: yakutania point and smugglers cove
late afternoon: helicopter + dog sledding tour

And it turned out to be fine.

I met someone who was booked through Princess for a combination tour that included the White Pass railway, and they missed their train timing. I don’t know what ended up happening with them, if they were able to still do all or most of the tour.

I also talked to someone who said they were on the White Pass railway, and they said they barely made their train timing. The train had apparently waited for them for 30 minutes or something for the delayed water shuttle people.

So just hope your cruise ship has water shuttles that are in working order!

The water shuttles are also the lifeboats of the cruise ship, so that’s a better reason to hope your water shuttles have no issues!

See more about my Alaska cruise on the Majestic Princess: 7-day Alaska cruise from Vancouver to Anchorage one-way

Sailing away from Skagway

Be out on the open deck as you’re sailing away from Skagway!

midnight sun during alaska cruise. skagway sunset

And that’s a bit about my time in Skagway cruise port!

More cruise ports for your Alaska cruise:

Best Skagway excursions
Best cruise ports for dog sledding in Alaska
Things to do in Ketchikan
Things to do in Juneau
Things to do in Sitka
Glacier Bay National Park
Sitka National Historical Park
Best Juneau excursions
Best Ketchikan excursions

HAPPY DOING THINGS IN SKAGWAY!

cruise luggage tags
no-surge power strip
basic binoculars for wildlife watching on glacier sea days
cocktail dress for formal night
What is embarkation day like? Sample: Vancouver embarkation day
What is disembarkation like? Sample: Vancouver disembarkation and Whittier disembarkation
Dinner food menu on my Alaska cruise

Plan out your day in Skagway!

Things to do in Skagway from a cruise ship
White Pass train
Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park
Gold Rush Cemetery
Red Onion Saloon
Puppies in the piazza (Princess)
Lower Dewey Lake Trail (and beyond)
Lower Reid Falls
Tips for first Princess cruise (getting familiar with Princess food + more!)
Ideas for your first Alaska cruise

19 Best Things To Do in Skagway, Alaska

Written By: The Planet D

United States

Updated On: February 21, 2024

We were pretty excited to revisit Skagway on our Holland America Cruise. My parent’s joined us on our Alaskan cruise and we couldn’t wait to show them the beauty of the Alaskan countryside. Nestled in the heart of Alaska’s rugged wilderness, Skagway has captivated travelers for more than a century. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and pristine forests, Skagway offers visitors the chance to explore some of the most breathtaking landscapes on earth. There are plenty of things to do in Skagway from exploring its Klondike history to experiencing its pristine beauty.

Table of Contents

Top Things to Do in Skagway, Alaska

Whether you’re a history buff or a nature lover, Skagway has something to offer for everyone. So come and discover the magic of Skagway and experience the true spirit of the Last Frontier. Skagway, Alaska is a popular destination for cruise ships and there are plenty of things to do in this Gold Rush town. Here are some of the best things to do in Skagway from a cruise ship.

Right Now, Hurtigruten Cruises is offering up to 50% off on select cruises worldwide. Find the Expedition Cruise that suits your needs and save now!

If you want to explore Skagway on your own, get this guided audio tour that takes you on a walk along the wooden boardwalks of downtown as you listen to stories from stampeders to gunslingers.

1. White Pass and Yukon Route Railway

Best things to do in Skagway AlaskaWhite Pass Yukon Route

The number one thing to do in Skagway is to hop aboard the White Pass Yukon Railway. The train picks up passengers right at the cruise ship terminal where you will hop aboard this historic narrow gauge railroad to retrace the route that so many gold prospectors have taken before you.

This historic narrow-gauge railroad runs from Skagway, Alaska, to Whitehorse, Yukon Territory, in Canada. The railway was built during the Klondike Gold Rush of 1897-1898 and was a crucial transportation route for miners traveling to the gold fields. Today, visitors can get a taste of what life was like by taking a journey that includes tight curves and steep grades through the mountains to the summit of White Pass.

Best things to do in Skagway Alaska White Pass Railway Train

The White Pass Rail has been designated as an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark by the American Society of Civil Engineers

The White Pass and Yukon Route Railway (WP&YR) runs between Skagway and The Yukon, Canada. Construction of the railway began in 1898 and was completed in just over two years, an impressive feat given the rugged terrain and harsh climate of the region.

The railway covers a distance of 110 miles (177 km) and includes 20 miles (32 km) of track that curves and climbs steeply through the mountains.

Best things to do in Skagway Alaska White Pass Yukon Railway

The WP&YR played a crucial role in the development of the region, carrying supplies, equipment, and people to the gold fields and connecting isolated communities. After the gold rush ended, the railway continued to operate as a freight and passenger service and became an important link between Alaska and the Yukon.

The tour takes you out and back giving you ample opportunity to see all of the sights along the way.

2. White Pass and Yukon Suspension Bridge

Best Things to do in Skagway Alaska White Pass And Yukon Suspension Bridge

Add another country onto your Alaskan Cruise and cross over into Canada to see the White Pass and Yukon Suspension Bridge.

While the bridge is not located directly in Skagway, it is Many visitors to Skagway choose to visit the Yukon Suspension Bridge as part of a day trip or excursion, as it is relatively close by and can be easily accessed by car or tour bus.

It is a pedestrian bridge that spans 200 feet (61 meters) across the roaring rapids of the Tutshi River, providing visitors with stunning views of the surrounding wilderness. You can book this tour that will take you from Skagway to the Yukon and Suspension Bridge. It includes stops at local landmarks and viewpoints along the Klondike Highway route and your guide will be keeping an eye out for wildlife.

3. Skagway City Tour and White Pass Summit

Best things to do in Skagway Alaska City Tour

This highly rated tour takes you on a guided tour to learn about the Klondike Gold Rush and to see the glaciers, rivers and forests that surround Skagway. It combines highlights of the best of Skagway.

You’ll start with a historic city tour before heading out to see waterfalls and glaciers while keeping an eye out for bears, moose, and sheep. Other stops include the Gold Rush Cemetary, Reid Falls Brackets Toll Road, Moor Bridge Overlook and the Welcome to Alaska sign.

4. Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park

Best things to do in Skagway Alaska Klondike Gold Rush National Historic Park

Downtown Skagway is designated as The Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park is an area dedicated to the Klondike Gold Rush of 1897-1898 when thousands of people traveled to the Klondike region of the Yukon in Canada in search of gold.

It was established in 1976 to commemorate the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 1890s and to preserve the history and cultural heritage of the region.

During the gold rush, Skagway served as the main gateway to the gold fields of the Yukon. Tens of thousands of prospectors traveled through Skagway on their way to the gold fields, creating a thriving community of traders, entrepreneurs, and adventurers.

Some of the attractions and activities available at the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park include the park’s main visitor center which is located in Skagway and features exhibits, films, and interactive displays that explore the history and culture of the region. In town, the Skagway Historic District, which includes more than 100 historic buildings and structures.

Much of Alaska’s history was built on the gold rush, so taking a stroll through the Skagway Historic District takes you back in time with its historic buildings that were the starting point for gold rush seekers setting out to tackle the Chilkoot Trail. Learn about the history of the gold rush in Skagway and explore the exhibits and artifacts at the visitor center. This guided audio tour is a great way to experience at your own pace.

5. Chilkoot Trail Hike

Best things to do in Skagway Alaska Chilkoot Pass

The Chilkoot Trail was a key route used by gold rush prospectors in the late 1800s to travel between the coast and the gold fields of the Yukon. Today, the trail is a popular hiking destination for those seeking a unique and challenging wilderness experience.

The full hike is a challenging route that spans approximately 33 miles (53 km) between Skagway, Alaska, and Bennett, British Columbia. It takes 3-5 days to complete and involves river crossings, mountain ridges and dense forests. Along the way, hikers will also encounter historic landmarks, such as the remains of old campsites and cabins used by the gold rush prospectors.

The full Chilkoot Trail hike is a challenging and remote wilderness experience that requires good physical fitness and hiking experience. Hikers should be prepared for changing weather conditions and carry appropriate gear and supplies, as there are no services or facilities along the trail. Permits are required for the hike and can be obtained through Parks Canada or the National Park Service in Skagway.

Taste of the Chilkoot Trail

Best things to do in Skagway Alaska Chilkoot Trail Dave

If you are visiting on a cruise ship, you won’t be able to hike the entire trail, but you can enjoy some of it to get a taste of what early gold rush seekers went through. You can take a guided hike on the historic Chilkoot Trail and see the stunning scenery and wildlife of the region.

Best things to do in Skagway Alaska Chilkoot Trail Deb

The Chilkoot Pass hike is a challenging and rewarding day hike that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. The hike covers approximately 8 miles (13 km) round trip and takes around 6-8 hours to complete. Along the way, hikers will pass through diverse landscapes, from dense forests to alpine meadows and rocky ridges.

Taking a horse trek is an ideal way to experience the Chilkoot and White Pass trails. You’ll ride through Klondike Gold Rush National Historic Park with a tour of Skagway before setting off on the trails by horseback. Get more details here.

6. Ocean Rafting

If you are looking for some adrenaline while in Skagway, book an ocean rafting adventure. Be prepared to get wet as you’ll borrow goggles, gloves, and a waterproof suit to tour the Lynn Canal on a high-speed boat as. you ride the waves.

Skagway’s location on the Lynn Canal, which is the longest and deepest fjord in North America, makes it an ideal destination for ocean rafting.

Ocean rafting tours are led by experienced guides who provide safety gear, instruction, and commentary on the local flora and fauna. The rafts used are designed to be stable and maneuverable, allowing passengers to feel the thrill of bouncing over waves and navigating through rapids.

The two-hour thrill ride makes multiple stops to view wildlife with endless photo opportunities. Just make sure to have a waterproof camera. Get More Details Here

7. Gold Rush Cemetery

Best things to do in Skagway Alaska Gold Rush Cemetery

One of the top stops on most Skagway tours is The Gold Rush Cemetery. ( Including this one ) The cemetery was established during the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 1890s and is the final resting place of many of the people who came to Skagway seeking their fortune in the gold fields.

Like the Pere Lachaise Cemetery in Paris or the No 1 Cemetery in New Orleans, this cemetery has some notable residents. The famous author Jack London has his final resting place in the cemetery. He wrote The Call of the Wild and White Fan and spend time in Skagway during the gold rush. We saw Jack London’s house on the Yukon portion of our tour. Read more at The Best Things to Do in Dawson City .

The most interesting story goes to Frank Reid and Jefferson “Soapy” Smith. Frank Reid was a customs inspector and Soapy Smith was a notorious criminal who reigned over Skagway during the Klondike Gold Rush. He ran a sophisticated operation that included gambling, prostitution, and protection rackets.

things to do in skagway Soapy Smith Grave

Smith and Reid were in a shootout in 1898 and Soapy Smith both were killed. Smith died that day and Reid died just a couple of weeks later. Jefferson “Soapy” Smith Jr.: Soapy Smith’s brother, who also played a role in his criminal enterprise, is buried in the cemetery next to his brother

The cemetery contains more than 100 graves, many of which are marked with simple wooden crosses or headstones that reflect the harsh and often tragic conditions of life in the gold rush era.

8. Heli Hike and Rail

things to do in skagway heli hike and rail

There is nothing better than seeing Alaska from above and one of the best things to do in Alaska is to get up in the air for a bird’s eye view of glaciers. During our first visit to Alaska, we only did a portion of the White Pass Rail picking up halfway through the trip because we were finishing up a helicopter tour and hike.

Our heli, hike, and rail tour took us over breathtaking glaciers followed by a hike to see the flora and fauna of the national forest before meeting up with the train while hitching a ride back to Skagway. It was the ultimate three tours in one.

9. Glacier Point Wilderness Safari

Best Things to do in Skagway Alaska Glacier Point Wilderness Safari

I know you have been on a ship a lot and may not have a boat tour at the top of your list, but cruise ships are huge, and sometimes getting on a more intimate boat tour can be exciting.

Relax on a 60-minute boat ride through North America’s deepest fjord to the glacier and see if you can spot local wildlife like whales, bald eagles, sea lions, and mountain goats. Then, take a short hike to the provided canoes and paddle out to Davidson Glacier. We have paddled in front of glaciers and there is nothing more mesmerizing. Get more details here.

10. Skagway Fish Company

I’ll never forget our first trip to Alaska with Princess Cruises on a Twitter me at Sea trip in 2010. Our host told us to order as much king crab as possible because one, it is the best in Alaska, and two, how often do we get to have a big company pick up the tab? Whenever we have gone to Alaska since, we always sample fresh seafood, such as Alaskan king crab and salmon. When visiting Ketchikan this is the place to do it.

It is a family-owned and operated business that has been serving fresh and delicious seafood for more than 20 years.

One of the Skagway Fish Company’s most popular dishes is their fish and chips, which features crispy, golden-brown batter, and tender, flaky fish. Other favorites include their salmon chowder and crab cakes.

11. Skagway Brewing Company

Best things to do in Skagway Alaska Skagway Brewing company

Sometimes when you get off the ship, all you really want to do is hit a local pub and soak in the atmosphere. The Skagway Brewing Company Enjoy offers locally brewed beer and pub fare.

The brewery features a wide selection of craft beers, many of which are brewed on-site using traditional brewing techniques and local ingredients. Some of the brewery’s most popular beers include the Spruce Tip Blonde Ale, the Chilkoot Trail IPA, and the Prospector Pale Ale.

It was founded in 2007 by a group of local residents who shared a passion for brewing beer and creating a community gathering place.

The brewery’s historic building was originally a hotel and brothel during the Klondike Gold Rush and has been beautifully restored but it has kept the history alive with vintage photos and memorabilia from Skagway’s gold rush era.

12. Red Onion Saloon

Best things to do in Skagway Alaska Red Onion Saloon

The Red Onion Saloon is a historic brothel turned museum and bar. It was originally built in 1898 during the Klondike Gold Rush and served as a brothel for the miners who flocked to the area in search of gold.

Head inside to relive its glory days enjoying a pint the same way that gold seekers did more than a century ago. Visitors can take a guided tour of the brothel museum located on the upper floors of the building as well.

13. Skagway Yukon Husky Camp

Best Things to do in Skagway Alaska Skagway Yukon Husky Camp

No visit to Alaska would be complete without delving into its sled dog heritage. Sled dogs played an important role in the life of settlers in Alaska and they continue to thrive and run in events such as the annual Iditarod.

This highly rated tour takes you on a half day trip up the Klondike Highway from Skagway where you’ll visit a sled dogging camp. Drive along the Klondike Highway and admire the scenic forests, waterfalls, and wildlife. Views of the White Pass Railroad evoke a nostalgic mood in the shadow of glacier-covered mountains.

You’ll visit the Canadian provinces of British Columbia and the Yukon. Details here

14. Skagway Streetcar Tour

Best things to do in Skagway Alaska Tour

Take a guided tour of Skagway on a vintage streetcar and learn about the town’s history and architecture. If you are looking for a relaxing way to visit Skagway, we saw Streetcars going around town.

15. Skagway E-Bike Tour

We love ebiking. It’s a great way to get some exercise without needing to work too hard. You can rent e-bikes in downtown Skagway, but why not take a guided tour that includes some of the best things to do in Skagway?

You’ll start by riding through the historic streets and then head out to pan for gold where you’ll learn about the Klondike History and visit the Skagway Museum. It also stops at Skagway attractions like the Gold Rush Cemetery, and Lower Reid Falls.

It’s the most fun you’ll have on two wheels in Skagway. Check out more details here.

16. Arctic Brotherhood Hall

Best Things to do in Skagway Alaska Arctic Brotherhood Hall

One of the more interesting buildings in Skagway is the Arctic Brotherhood Hall. It certainly stands out among the other facades in town.

It was built in 1899 by the Arctic Brotherhood, a fraternal organization of miners and other pioneers who came to Alaska during the Klondike Gold Rush. The organization was founded in 1899 with the goal of providing camaraderie and mutual support among the men who were working in the harsh conditions of the Arctic.

The interior of the Arctic Brotherhood Hall is equally impressive, with a large meeting hall on the second floor that is decorated with painted murals and other artwork depicting scenes from Alaskan history and mythology. The first floor of the building originally housed a saloon and a gambling hall, but these were later converted into retail spaces and offices.

It has been designated a National Historic Landmark and is considered one of the most significant examples of Alaskan frontier architecture in the state.

17. Days of 98 Show

Best Things to do in Skagway Alaska Days of 98 Show

The Days of 98 Show has been running in Alaska since 1923 and we had a rip-roaring good time. The show tells the story of the Klondike Gold Rush of 1898, which brought thousands of fortune seekers to the area in search of riches.

The show is performed in the historic Eagles Hall in Skagway, which was built in 1899 and has been home to the show since its inception.

One of the highlights of the show is a recreation of the famous “stampedes” that occurred during the Gold Rush when thousands of prospectors would race to stake their claims on newly discovered gold fields. The audience is also treated to lively renditions of popular songs from the era, such as “The Yukon Queen” and “The Klondike Gold Rush”.

The Days of ’98 Show is considered one of the longest-running and most popular live shows in Alaska.

18. See the Salmon Run

Best things to do in Skagway Alaska Salmon Run

Chances. are you’ll be on an Alaskan cruise during the salmon run. When visiting Ketchikan, make your way to the Pullen Creek Shoreline Park to witness thousands of salmon swimming to spawn.

The salmon run typically occurs from July through September, with peak viewing times in August and early September. Visitors to Pullen Creek Shoreline Park can watch the salmon swimming upstream from the creek, leaping over rocks and rapids in their journey to their spawning grounds.

Visitors can also learn about the biology and life cycle of the fish through interpretive displays and educational programs at the park. The park features a boardwalk that runs along the creek, providing easy access for visitors to observe the fish up close.

19. ZipLining

If you’ve never tried ziplining, what are you waiting for? You’re on an Alaskan Cruise tour, this is the ultimate bucket list and time to step out of your comfort zone. Grizzly Falls Zipline has 11 zip lines over the rainforest with four suspension bridges to cross.

The four-hour adventure is a half thrill and half eco tour taking in the beauty of the Alaskan wilderness. The adventure begins before you even start riding a giant Unimog vehicle up the steep mountain road. It’s one of the top-rated tours in Ketchikan.

Photo of Soapy Smith by Notyourbroom , CC BY 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Plan Your Next Trip to Alaska WithThese Resources

22 Best Things to Do in Ketchikan, Alaska
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2 thoughts on “19 Best Things To Do in Skagway, Alaska”

You missed Skagways first and only distillery, Skagway Spirits Distillery. Which is off the beaten path. Located on 9th & Alaska, it is 3 blocks away from Broadway on the airport.

The one time trip to Skagway and we did try to do the Train ride…. However halfway up the Yukon trail the train broke down most of the trip was sitting on the side of the mountain waiting for another train to come up and take us back down?

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Skagway United States of America

Skagway cruise port is located near the border with Canada, just south of the Yukon. More than 100 years ago, Skagway welcomed many prospectors, who came by boat, motivated by the frenzy of the Klondike Gold Rush.

Today you can immerse yourself in the atmosphere of that period in the center of the city, which has been restored with wooden building facades and sidewalks. Very popular, in the summer, Skagway can accommodate up to four ships per day.

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Useful Information

A 15% tip will be appreciated in restaurants and taxis.

USD US dollar

Time difference

from New York: -3h

from San Francisco: -1h

from London: -8h

Where is located the Port of Skagway Cruise Terminal

Travelling around the skagway cruise port.

It is easy to discover the city on foot.

The S.M.A.R.T. bus is in operation from May to September and allows you to reach the city center. The daily pass is $5 or $2 per trip.

Activities in Skagway

Jeff. smiths parlor museum.

The Jeff. Smiths Parlor Museum was a bar known for being the landmark of outlaws. His museum now presents historical photos and objects.

Mascot Saloon Museum

Mascot Saloon Museum is the saloon that was in operation the longest, until the prohibition of alcohol in 1916

Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park Museum

This National Park is composed of more than 20 historic buildings, four of which are museums. The visitor centre, near the train station, traces the history of the Gold Rush since its beginnings.

Skagway Museum

Skagway Municipal Museum, located in a former school, showcases the city’s cultural, artistic and historical heritage.

Moore House Museum

The Moore House Museum is a restored Victorian house featuring an exhibit on the first family to reside in Skagway.

Several trails will allow you to admire nature.

White Pass Raill

Discover wonderful landscapes on board this train. Excursions combining the train ride and a hike in the forest are also offered.

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Useful References

Tourism Board - Skagway
Tourism Board - United States of America
Travel Alaska
Skagway on Wikipedia
United States of America on Wikipedia
Travel Advice and Advisories (Government of Canada)
Port Website

For details or to book an excursion, visit our page:

Alternative:

https://www.viator.com/en-CA/Skagway/d943-ttd?pid=P00045706&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=morebutton

Icy Strait Point (Hoonah) United States of America

Juneau United States of America

Ketchikan United States of America

Prince Rupert Canada

Seattle United States of America

Sitka United States of America

Vancouver Canada

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Icy Strait Point (Hoonah)
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Cruise to Skagway, Alaska

Skagway shore excursions, amazing experiences coming soon., sorry, there are no excursions for this port at this moment., things to do in skagway.

ON THE RIGHT TRACK

Vintage Rail Car White Pass Yukon Route Bridal Veil Falls, Skagway, Alaska

Prepare to be blown away by breathtaking Alaskan scenery while riding in a vintage rail car along the White Pass and Yukon Route narrow-gauge railway. See Bridal Veil Falls, Dead Horse Gulch and Glacier Gorge unfold before you while climbing the 2,885-foot incline of White Pass.

TAKE A HIKE

Chilkoot Trail Hiking Trail, Skagway, Alaska

Known as “the world’s longest outdoor museum”, Chilkoot Trail encompasses 33 miles of hiking trails. Follow in the footsteps of Klondike stampeders as you trek through dense rainforest, enjoy incredible scenery, and discover the Gold Rush ghost town of Dyea. This is the ultimate Alaskan outdoor challenge.

Klondlike Gold Rush Museum, Skagway, Alaska

GO FOR GOLD

Step back in time at the museums of Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. Relive the good old Gold Rush days through interactive exhibits at its Visitor Center, housed in the restored 19th-century Railroad Depot. You can also watch a captivating documentary film detailing the rush for gold in Alaska.

Cuisine Crab Legs Seafood Shellfish, Skagway, Alaska

LOCAL CUISINE

Skagway is one of the best places to feast on king crab legs. Hit Skagway Brewing Company for sockeye salmon sandwiches paired with a Blonde Ale made from hand picked Sitka spruce tree tips. Enjoy Mendenhall Mudd or Klondike Walnut fudge at the Alaska Fudge Company— and then sip a nightcap at Red Onion Saloon, the oldest watering hole in town.

Skagway’s downtown historic corridor has its fair share of Gold Rush-era facades that now house souvenir shops. Sprinkled among them are galleries selling local artisan paintings, carvings, pottery, woodworks and jewelry. You’ll know it’s authentic if it has the “Made in Skagway” logo.

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2 replies to this topic

Are you planning to drive into the Yukon? You'd all have to bring along your passports for that.

There is no such thing as a must see/do that suits everyone. Take a look at the local website to decide what looks interesting to your family: https://www.skagway.com/ Keep in mind you don't all have to do the same things.

We were thinking of driving to Yukon. We have our passports. There are only 3 travelers so splitting up isn’t really an option for us. I appreciate the tips!

Skagway - Carnival cruise 8:57 am
Dyea Dave tours operating in 2024 May 12, 2024
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What Side of the Train/Bus is Best Apr 22, 2024
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Skagway Hotels and Places to Stay

The 6 best Alaska cruise shore excursions — from heli-hiking to whale watching

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There are some cruise destinations — Barcelona, for instance, or Venice — where you really don’t need to sign up for shore excursions . You can just walk off the ship and head to the major attractions on your own.

For the most part, the ports of Alaska aren’t like that.

To get the most out of an Alaska cruise , you’ll want to sign up for a tour in most if not all of the ports you visit. And not just any old tour. You’ll be looking for the best Alaska shore excursions that get you out into the Alaska backcountry.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG’s cruise newsletter.

In Alaska, many of the biggest “attractions” — breathtaking mountain landscapes, glaciers, fjords, breaching whales and feeding bears, for instance — are related to the Great Outdoors. As a result, many of the best Alaska shore excursions for cruisers are found outside of the towns where ships stop. If you just stay in the towns and explore on your own, you’ll miss a big part of what Alaska is all about.

Related: The best Alaska cruise for every type of traveler

Picking the best Alaska shore excursions

People who know me know that I love talking about Alaska port towns. This isn’t just because I spent more than two decades writing about Alaska and other cruise destinations for major newspapers. For many years, I was the co-author of Frommer’s “Alaska Cruises & Ports of Call” guide. In researching nearly half a dozen editions of that book, I spent many days exploring each of the major cruise ports in the state. I’ve tried a large number of the shore excursions in places such as Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan. I’ve also poked around these towns a lot on my own.

As noted above, my biggest message to anyone planning an Alaska cruise is to get out of the towns . Sign up for something — a hike, a rafting trip, a train ride, a fishing outing — that gets you out into Alaska’s spectacular outdoor settings.

But I also have a few specific, top-line pro tips when you’re thinking about the best Alaska shore excursions:

Get up in the air . It’ll be expensive. We’re talking $250 or more per person. But there’s nothing like seeing the grandeur of Alaska from a helicopter or floatplane. The Juneau Icefield, in particular, is a sight to behold. It covers around 1,500 square miles. You can see it on a flightseeing tour from Juneau, with some tours including landings on the ice.
Don’t miss the whales. Even if you’re not a big wildlife person, you’ll be mesmerized by the humpback whales of Alaska. They are huge (at up to 52 feet, longer than a Greyhound bus), and there are boat tours that will get you up close to them. The best places to do this are out of Juneau and also Icy Strait Point if your ship stops there.
Splurge for a trip to Misty Fjords National Monument . This glacier-carved wilderness area, not far from Ketchikan, is another don’t-miss sight. It’s everything you think of when you think of Alaska: icy blue lakes, waterfalls, snow-capped peaks and glacial valleys. The only way to get there is on a boat or floatplane tour, and they typically start at over $200 a person.

Unfortunately, as you can see from the above, many of the most spectacular excursions in Alaskan ports are expensive. But Alaska is not a place to skimp. Alaska is a place where you may want to budget almost as much per person for your shore excursions as you do for your cabin.

That said, you don’t have to splurge for a big outing at every call. In Juneau, for instance, you can get an outdoor experience with a relatively inexpensive trip to the nearby Mendenhall Glacier. It’s just 12 miles from the cruise ship docks and reachable by bus or taxi. The bus will set you back an astounding $45 per person, round-trip, which I find an intolerable gouge (but … it is what it is). If you have a few people, you’re probably better off with a taxi, which runs around $35 each way. For two or three people traveling together, it’s not all that pricey a trip.

Either way you do it, you’ll find some nice hiking trails around Mendenhall Glacier and a visitor center. There’s a creek there, too, where I’ve sometimes seen salmon running. One time, I even saw a bear. Speaking of which: A bear is something you think you want to see in Alaska until you actually see one. Then you’re just hoping you don’t get eaten.

Related: The best Alaska cruises for couples

I should also be clear that the towns themselves aren’t devoid of attractions. While I highly encourage Alaska-bound cruisers to get out into the wilderness, there are plenty of worthwhile things to do in each of the main port towns.

In Juneau, food tours have become popular; think King crab bisque and Alaska salmon. The Alaska State Museum is beautiful and worth a visit. Skagway is like a Gold Rush-themed movie set. You should at least walk its main street (Broadway), with its wooden-board sidewalks. If you’re a craft beer fan, like me , you also might want to sample a Spruce Tip Blonde Ale at the Skagway Brewing Company. It’s made with Sitka spruce tips picked locally in the spring.

In Ketchikan, you should save a few minutes to stroll up Creek Street, along Ketchikan Creek, where you might spot salmon running. It’s the ultimate Alaska selfie spot.

Related: The best cruises to Alaska from Seattle

How to book the best Alaska shore excursions

The simplest way to book an Alaska shore excursion is through your cruise line. You check a box on an online form before sailing or while on board, and — poof! — it’s all arranged. They send a ticket to your room, and when you walk off the ship, a tour guide will be waiting for you.

Another way to go is to book directly with a tour operator in one of the ports. Many of the tour operators you’ll find in Alaskan ports are the same tour operators that operate the ship-sponsored excursions. Often, the tours that the local tour operators will sell you are the same tours that the cruise lines are selling you, at the same price . Shopping around isn’t necessarily going to get you anywhere.

Indeed, in some cases, the cruise lines own the tour operators in Alaska ports, or at least a piece of them. For instance, the parent company of Princess Cruises and Holland America is a part-owner of Skagway’s big attraction, the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway.

That said, you can sometimes get discounts by calling a tour operator directly. I’ve had some luck with that over the years. It’s hit or miss.

Related: 8 tips for booking the best cruise shore excursion for your money

The 6 best Alaska shore excursions

Below, I’ve listed six of my all-time favorite Alaska shore excursions. These all are tours that you’ll find in the tour lineups at every major cruise line that operates in Alaska. That said, different lines sometimes have different names for these tours — and sometimes different pricing.

For the listings below, I’ve used the tour names and pricing listed in the current tour sheets at Princess, which along with sister line Holland America, is the biggest cruise operator in Alaska.

Related: The ultimate guide to picking a cruise line

Dog-sledding and glacier adventure by helicopter

Cost: $669.95 per person

Port where available: Juneau

For those with a hefty bankroll, this might be the ultimate Alaska shore excursion. Combining helicopter flightseeing over the seemingly endless Juneau Icefield with a landing on a glacier for dog sledding, it hits two of Alaska’s most iconic experiences.

It’s also insanely expensive, as I know from firsthand experience. I once took my entire family of five on this excursion, dropping more than $2,000 in the process. That’s a huge chunk of change for an outing that lasts three hours.

But I’ll tell you this: I don’t regret doing it. Not one bit. For starters, the views of the Juneau Icefield as you fly to and from the dog-sledding camp are incredible (assuming the weather cooperates). But the real joy was seeing my three young girls interacting with the teams of Alaskan huskies that live at the camp.

Once you arrive at the camp, you’ll meet the dogs and their mushers, see where they live, get a quick tutorial in mushing, and then head out for a spin around the camp on a dog-pulled sled.

Related: These are the best times to visit Alaska

Whale watching and wildlife quest

Cost: $189.95

If it’s Alaska’s famous humpback whales that you want to see, you’ll want to book a whale-watching tour. The waters around Juneau are particularly known for humpback whales — so much so that the operator of this excursion offers a whale-sighting guarantee.

Setting off from the Juneau harbor in a whale-watching boat, you’ll cruise to nearby areas to see not just humpback whales but harbor seals and sea lions, too. You might even spot a killer whale or porpoise.

The boat used for this excursion has both inside and outdoor viewing areas. The trips last about four hours, including transfer time from your cruise ship to the whale-watching boat.

Related: The ultimate list of Alaska cruise tips

Note that if you have a big enough group, it sometimes pays to arrange a private boat out of Juneau to take you to see humpback whales. Many lines offer a private boat charter for whale watching as a tour option, or you can arrange one through a local company.

Klondike rock climbing and rappelling

Cost: $119.95

Port where available: Skagway

If you’re like me, you may be a little terrified at the idea of climbing the sheer face of a rock cliff. But don’t let that scare you away from this 3 1/4-hour tour. It’s a hoot.

Experienced climbing guides will meet you at your ship and drive you up the Klondike Highway to an area of granite cliffs that’s the perfect playground for beginner and more seasoned climbers alike. Upon arrival, the guides provide you with all the gear you need — climbing shoes, helmets and harnesses — for a safe scramble up a 70-foot-high wall. They’ll also offer plenty of instruction (and encouragement) plus a snack of trail mix and hot chocolate.

If it all sounds a bit daunting, know that you don’t need any experience at climbing to do it; I sure didn’t have any when I tried it, nor did my young daughters, who absolutely loved it. There are multiple routes up the cliffs, some perfect for beginners. After making it to the top, you’ll rappel back down — an entirely different kind of thrill.

Related: How to plan a cruise with points and miles

White Pass & Yukon Route Railway ride

Cost: $149.95

Call it the iconic attraction of Skagway, Alaska. A ride into the mountains on this narrow-gauge railroad is the tour everybody takes when visiting the Gold Rush town-turned-tourist hub. And for good reason. It offers an easy way to get deep into the Great Alaskan Outdoors.

Truth be told, I’m a fan of more active excursions. But for someone who isn’t going to hike, bike, horseback ride or raft their way through the wilderness around Skagway (there are tours for all of those things, too), a ride on the White Pass & Yukon Railway is one of the best ways to get a glimpse of the area’s classic Alaskan scenery.

Related: 13 things you should do before every cruise

From the comfort of a vintage rail car, you’ll get stunning views of mountains, gorges, glacial rivers and waterfalls as you climb nearly 3,000 feet to the summit of White Pass — the headwaters to the mighty Yukon River. Designated an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark, the 20-mile route is a marvel in its own right, with improbably steep grades at times and segments that pass over soaring wooden trestles and around tight, cliff-hanging curves.

Heli-hike and rail adventure

Cost: $399.95

This is another tour with a sky-high cost. But, in my opinion, it’s well worth the money. Indeed, it’s one of my all-time favorite Alaska shore excursions.

The five-hour, Skagway-based outing begins with a transfer from your ship to a nearby helicopter pad, where you’ll find a helicopter waiting to whisk you high into the surrounding Sawtooth Mountain Range.

On a quick flight to your destination — a mountain trail in the Tongass National Forest — you’ll get spectacular views of the mountains and Goat Lake. You’ll land at Glacier Station, a remote mountain helicopter pad alongside the White Pass & Yukon Railway tracks. From there, you’ll set off on a two- to six-mile guided wilderness hike on a trail along the Skagway River. The highlight of the hike: a magnificent view of Laughton Glacier.

Returning to Glacier Station, you’ll end the day with a ride back to Skagway on the White Pass & Yukon Railway, which makes a special stop to pick you up.

Misty Fjords National Monument by seaplane

Cost: $299.95

Port where available: Ketchikan

There’s nothing that says Alaska quite like a trip in a floatplane. And, if you’re going to do a floatplane ride, there’s nowhere better than in Ketchikan. You’ll find a small armada of floatplanes waiting to take you to nearby Misty Fjords National Monument.

Misty Fjords is one of those quintessential Alaska destinations that’s so beautiful you just want to cry. That is, if it’s not too “misty” to see it. It got its name for a reason. The area is often shrouded in clouds and drizzly rain. Ketchikan is known as one of the rainiest places in North America, with over 13 feet of rain each year. So, yeah, bring a rain jacket.

But, also get ready for lovely views of glacier-carved fjords, cliffs and rock walls jutting thousands of feet out of the ocean. The whole thing is covered with temperate rainforests and features huge waterfalls (thanks to all that rain). It’s definitely a sight to see.

Note that there often are two versions of this tour available: One that is about two hours in length and only includes flightseeing and a slightly longer version that includes a water landing within Misty Fjord National Monument.

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The 6 best Alaska cruise shore excursions — from heli-hiking to whale watching

Visit Skagway Alaska with Carnival Cruise Line

7 - Day Alaska from Seattle, WA

Cruise itinerary.

Visit Seattle Washington with Carnival Cruise Line

Day 1: Seattle

Day 2: Fun Day at Sea

Day 3: cruise tracy arm fjord, day 4: skagway, day 5: juneau, day 6: ketchikan, day 7: victoria, day 8: seattle.

Get to Know Carnival Luminosa

Carnival Luminosa ® is new to the Carnival fleet… and we’d say this ship is all set to make a first impression. Guests setting sail on Carnival Luminosa can expect hospitality and fun that's pure, unmistakable Carnival, with so many fan-favorite onboard features like the flavors of Alchemy Bar ® , Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse ™ and RedFrog ® Rum Bar; the entertainment of Playlist Productions ™ , Piano Bar 88 and The Punchliner ™ Comedy Club; plus the relaxation of Cloud 9 Spa ™ and Serenity ™ . And when you’re indoors, you can still expect great views and lots of natural light — the ship was built with plenty of windows. So when you choose to sail on Carnival Luminosa, can we just say… great choice! There’s just one more decision to make: is Australia or Alaska more your cruising style? We ask because this world-traveling ship will kick things off sailings from Australia in the summer months with plenty of itinerary options… before heading to Seattle for a summer of Alaska cruises. And when the ship’s heading from one region to the other, we take the opportunity to sail unique Transpacific itineraries that stop in spots like Fiji, Tahiti, Hawaii, Japan and more. So, what we’re saying is… with scenery like this, you’re gonna put those windows to good use!

Onboard Activities

guests enjoying live music and drinks at the red frog rum bar on carnival cruise lines

Onboard Dining

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Top Things to Do in the Port of Skagway, Alaska on a Cruise
Skagway, Alaska Cruise Port Guide
What to Do in Skagway Alaska On a Cruise Port Day
Top Things to Do in Skagway Alaska on a Cruise
10 Awesome Things to Do in Skagway Cruise Port (+ Port Info)
Things to do in Skagway, Alaska

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Skagway Alaska Port Guide
Skagway, Alaska
Port Guide: Skagway, Alaska
Skagway, Alaska Guide for the Best Things to do while at this Alaska Cruise Port
Things to do in Skagway, Alaska
Choose The BEST Alaska Cruise Excursions For Every Port! Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Victoria!

COMMENTS

20 Best Things to do in Skagway Alaska Cruise Port
The dog sledding and musher's camp shore excursion is a popular Alaska cruise line excursion. 3. Pan for Gold at Liarsville Goldrush Camp. You'll be transported back to Skagway's gold rush days with this entertaining excursion that takes two hours and includes transport to and from the cruise ship aboard a bus.
Cruise Guide: 15 Tips and Things to Do in Skagway, Alaska
For such a small town, Skagway can handle a significant number of ships. In fact, the three different cruise docks (Ore Dock, Broadway Dock, and Railroad Dock) accommodate four ships, meaning that there can be potentially 10,000 cruise passengers — or more — during a single day. During our stop, we noticed Disney at the Ore Dock (which is ...
21 Fun Things To Do in Skagway Alaska from a Cruise Ship
16 Float Down the Taiya River. See the nature surrounding Skagway from a different perspective. Float down the Taiya River with a small group and experience the beauty of Alaska from the water. A completely equipped raft will bring you slowly down the river as you watch for wildlife along the shore.
10 Awesome Things to Do in Skagway Cruise Port (+ Port Info)
Get more information on the Red Onion Saloon website. 2. Gold Panning at Alaska 360. Alaska 360, known as Dredge Town, is one of the most popular attractions near Skagway downtown located approximately 15 minutes drive from the end of the port Skagway.
Cruise Port Skagway Alaska: Best Things to Do & Schedule
Port of Skagway Schedule and Itineraries. Top Attractions in Skagway Cruise Port. Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. Scenic White Pass Railway Tours. Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, Ziplining, and Wildlife Sightings. Chilkoot Trail: A Historic Hiking Experience. Dog Sledding and Musher's Camp Adventures.
Skagway Cruise Port: What You Need to Know
Fall (September - November) Temperatures in Skagway begin to cool as summer turns to fall. Expect daytime temperatures between 40° and 55°F, as well as fairly frequent showers and fog. Pack ...
24 Things To Do In Skagway Alaska Cruise Port
1. Ride the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway. The White Pass & Yukon Route Railway is my favorite thing to do in Skagway, Alaska. This historic railway offers an unforgettable trip through the breathtaking landscapes of Alaska and the Yukon. It's a journey filled with historical and scenic beauty.
A Must-Read Guide to the Skagway Cruise Port in Alaska: Places to Eat
Keep reading to see the best excursions in the cruise port of Skagway. 1. Take a journey on the legendary White Pass Scenic Railway. A train ride on the White Pass Scenic Railways is a must-do when visiting Skagway. This magical train journey takes you through the wilderness surrounding Skagway.
10 best things to do in Skagway Alaska from a cruise ship (free + on
Oh hi! 👋 That's me on an excursion in Skagway during a cruise ship visit! 👆 Skagway is the amazing cruise port where you can do a helicopter with a glacier landing (for a glacier walk or to do dog sledding on a glacier), take a train through the mountains, and explore the Klondike Gold Rush history! Read about all things Skagway on the blog!For the beginner's guide to Alaska cruises ...
Top Things to Do in the Port of Skagway, Alaska on a Cruise
Things to See and Do in Skagway, Alaska: The downtown area of Skagway is very compact and simple to just stroll around and visit the different shops, museums, and restaurants during your visit. 1. Take a Free Guided Walking Tour of Skagway. Address: 291 Broadway (Skagway Visitor's Center) Hours: Mon-Fri 8am - 3pm.
Top Things to Do in Skagway, Alaska on a Cruise
The Bald Eagle Preserve, in Haines, Alaska, is located only a river ride away from Skagway. This preserve, established in 1982 to protect the bald eagle population, boasts the largest population of bald eagles in the world and is another one of the top things to do in Skagway, Alaska on a cruise. The flats of the Chilkat River are considered ...
Best Things to Do in Skagway Cruise Port
Skagway cruise port The port of Skagway is a very popular cruise ship stop. Photo by Debi Lander. Skagway continues as a shipping and supply center but depends on tourism. The population (from 2019 records) hovers today around 800-1,000. I suspect it dropped even lower during the pandemic. Every year, Skagway welcomes an astonishing million ...
Things to do in Skagway for a perfect time in Skagway cruise port
Downtown Skagway is walkable from the cruise port, and you can explore the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. There are also some epic Alaska excursions you can do when you are in Skagway cruise port! I arrived to Skagway by cruise ship on 2 Princess cruises in May 2023. Below is basically what I did in Skagway during each of the cruises!
Skagway, Alaska Cruise Port
See which Skagway, Alaska cruise is best for you at Cruiseline.com Check out the Skagway, Alaska cruise port viewing 3805 reviews and 1924 photos from real travelers. Learn the best things to do at the port of Skagway, Alaska.
The Best Things to Do in Skagway, Alaska
Best Things To Do In Skagway. 1. Sightsee in Skagway. Tiny in size but big on preservation, Skagway offers an authentic glimpse of the Gold Rush era. Take a downtown walking tour and get a feel for what it was really like. (Pro tip: Use Alaska.org's exclusive Skagway Audio Guide !) 2. Go Beyond the Town.
7 Things to Do in Skagway, AK
Skagway is a popular port for Alaska cruise ships, and it's easy to see why: the town is brimming with gold rush history, unique culture, and amazing opportunities for enjoying the state's renowned natural beauty. Take a look at what Skagway has to offer, from trips on the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad to picturesque gardens.. 1. Visit Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park
19 Best Things To Do in Skagway, Alaska
7. Gold Rush Cemetery. One of the top stops on most Skagway tours is The Gold Rush Cemetery. ( Including this one) The cemetery was established during the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 1890s and is the final resting place of many of the people who came to Skagway seeking their fortune in the gold fields.
20 Amazing Things To Do In Skagway, Alaska
1. Stroll To Gold Rush Cemetery And Reid Falls. While a visit to a cemetery might seem like one of the strangest tours to take, it's all about the history it holds. The Gold Rush Cemetery is the oldest graveyard in Skagway and an exciting point of interest. A Gold Rush Cemetery tombstone.
Skagway Cruise Port
Skagway. United States of America. Skagway cruise port is located near the border with Canada, just south of the Yukon. More than 100 years ago, Skagway welcomed many prospectors, who came by boat, motivated by the frenzy of the Klondike Gold Rush. Today you can immerse yourself in the atmosphere of that period in the center of the city, which ...
Top 9 Things to Do in Skagway
A must see cruise stop on Alaska's glorious Inside Passage, Skagway is a tiny town that packs a big punch.A historic downtown area quickly gives way to some of the rawest nature on earth, making a cruise to Skagway a great way to see the true wilderness. Explore the local shops and fill up on the various meals found in Skagway before getting your heart racing on one of the many available ...
The Best "Non-Excursions" in Port During Your Alaska Cruise
Stroll the short Whittier Creek Trail, or try the popular Portage Pass, with views of Passage Canal and Portage Glacier. For a real challenge, tackle the Blackstone Bay Vista Trail; the rock scrambling pays off with jaw-dropping views of the bay and glaciers. Explore port towns without a shore excursion.
Skagway Cruise Reviews (2023 UPDATED): Ratings of Skagway Cruise Port
Read over 1,143 detailed Skagway cruise port reviews and find great tips to enjoy Skagway including shore excursions, local activities and must see attractions.
Cruises to Skagway, Alaska
ON THE RIGHT TRACK. Prepare to be blown away by breathtaking Alaskan scenery while riding in a vintage rail car along the White Pass and Yukon Route narrow-gauge railway. See Bridal Veil Falls, Dead Horse Gulch and Glacier Gorge unfold before you while climbing the 2,885-foot incline of White Pass. Chilkoot Trail Hiking Trail, Skagway, Alaska.
Skagway
Level Contributor. 15,659 posts. 1. Re: Skagway - Carnival cruise. May 16, 2024, 7:15 PM. Are you planning to drive into the Yukon? You'd all have to bring along your passports for that. There is no such thing as a must see/do that suits everyone. Take a look at the local website to decide what looks interesting to your family: https://www ...
The 6 best Alaska cruise shore excursions
Port where available: Skagway Call it the iconic attraction of Skagway, Alaska. A ride into the mountains on this narrow-gauge railroad is the tour everybody takes when visiting the Gold Rush town ...
What to do in Alaska When it Rains
Here are 6 things you can do on your cruise to Alaska when the weather forecast is less than favorable. Have a Pint A pint of beer at The Fish House, Ketchikan (Photo: Aaron Saunders)
7-Day Alaska Cruise from Seattle
Day 4: Skagway. 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM. SHORE EXCURSIONS. Day 5: Juneau. 6:00 AM - 3:00 PM. SHORE EXCURSIONS. ... before heading to Seattle for a summer of Alaska cruises. And when the ship's heading from one region to the other, we take the opportunity to sail unique Transpacific itineraries that stop in spots like Fiji, Tahiti, Hawaii, Japan and ...

20 Best Things to do in Skagway Alaska Cruise Port – Complete Guide

Skagway Cruise Port

What Cruise Passengers Need to Know About Skagway Cruise Port

Getting Around Skagway

Public Transit

Electric Bikes (EBikes)

Car Rentals

The 10 Best Skagway Shore Excursions

1. Ride the White Pass and Yukon Route Railway

2. Feel the Rush of a Dog Sled Ride

3. Pan for Gold at Liarsville Goldrush Camp

4. Head to the Yukon Boarder on a Mini Bus Tour

5. Take in the Majesty of Glaciers with an Aerial Tour

6. Float the Taiya River

7. Rainforest Cycling Trip

8. Explore the Shores of North America’s deepest Fjord in an Ocean Raft

9. Explore the Chilkoot Trail

10. Rainforest Ziplining

10 of the Best Free Things do do in Skagway Cruise Port

1. Stroll Down a Gold Rush Main Street

2. Enjoy a “Ranger’s Choice” Daily Talk

3. Watch a Movie About the Gold Rush in Skagway

Get The Ultimate Cruise Planner

4. Shop and Learn at Corrington’s Alaskan Ivory & Museum

5. Marvel at the Snow and Ice Cutting Train on Broadway

6. Take a picture of “The Most Photographed Building In Alaska”

7. Go Birding at Yakutania Point

8. Step Into History at the Gold Rush Cemetery and Lower Reid Falls

9. Experience the Tranquility of Lower Dewey Lake

10. View Gold Rush Artifacts at the Skagway Museum & Archives

Eat & Drink in Skagway

What is the best time of year to visit Skagway?

How far is downtown Skagway from the cruise port?

Final Thoughts On Things to do in Skagway Cruise Port

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Cruise Guide: 15 Tips and Things to Do in Skagway, Alaska

Skagway’s Claim to Fame Was a Jumping Off Point for the Gold Rush

Skagway Today Is Definitely a Tourist Town

It’s One of the Most Stunning Ports You’ll See (And You Won’t Believe It Until You See It)

Hungry? Try a Klondike Doughboy

There Are 3 Different Cruise Docks, Accommodating 4 Ships

Look at the “Painted Rock” Time Capsule

Take a Ride on the White Pass & Yukon Route Rail

Walking to Town? Look for the Shapes to Tell You the Right Way

Don’t Want to Walk? There’s a $3 Shuttle to Town

This May Be the Farthest North You Ever Travel

Don’t Forget to Mail a Postcard (But It Might Take a While to Arrive)

Interested in Learning About the Gold Rush? Head Here…

Head on a Helicopter Tour to Glaciers

Want a Little Nature in Town? Try the Pullen Creek StreamWalk

Visit the Red Onion Saloon for a Bite, Drink, and a Peek at the Naughty Side of Skagway

Map of Skagway, Alaska

44 Must-Have Alaskan Cruise Tips, Tricks, and Secrets

29 Must-Have Things to Pack for an Alaskan Cruise (11 You’d Never Think Of)

This Cruise Line Is Offering Month-Long “Working From Hammock” Cruises From Miami… Starting at $6K Per Person

10 Awesome Things to Do in Skagway Cruise Port (+ Port Info)

Skagway Cruise Port

Getting Around Skagway Port

10 Awesome Things to Do in Skagway Cruise Port

2. Gold Panning at Alaska 360

3. Jewell Gardens

4. Klondike Gold Rush National Park

5. White Pass and Yukon Route Scenic Railway

6. Musher’s Camp and Dog Sledding Adventure

7. Dog Sledding and Denver Glacier Flightseeing

8. Grizzly Falls Zipline

9. Kroschel Wildlife Refuge

10. Ocean Raft & Wildlife Sightings

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Cruise Port Skagway Alaska: Best Things to Do & Schedule

Port of Skagway Schedule and Itineraries

Welcoming Cruise Ships and Itineraries

Convenient Docking Locations

Ample Time for Exploration

Combining Skagway with Other Alaskan Ports

Top Attractions in Skagway Cruise Port

Discover Beauty and Sustainability at Jewell Gardens

Step Back in Time at Trail of ’98 Museum

Witness Nature’s Splendor at Lower Reid Falls