If you’re gearing up for an Alaskan cruise with a stop in Skagway, you’re in for a delightful experience.
Skagway boasts vibrant historic buildings lining its Main Street, and although the downtown area is compact, there are numerous activities to enjoy in the vicinity. As one of Alaska’s most frequented cruise ports, it offers a rich blend of history and adventure.
Having a well-thought-out plan is essential, especially since Skagway can become busy when several ships dock at the same time. Luckily, this guide will assist you in maximizing your time in Skagway, Alaska.
History and Background of Skagway, Alaska
Skagway was born during the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 1890s. The discovery of gold in Canada’s Klondike region in 1896 sparked a rush of prospectors eager to strike it rich.
Many of these prospectors traveled by boat to Skagway, then a modest settlement with a single log cabin. From there, they embarked on a challenging journey to the Yukon goldfields, navigating hazardous, snow-covered terrains and mountain ranges on foot.
Today, Skagway is a meticulously preserved historical town with about 1,000 residents. Its economy is largely driven by tourism, drawing visitors keen to explore Gold Rush-era architecture and immerse themselves in a slice of Klondike history.
Location of Skagway Cruise Pier
Situated in a narrow valley at the northern end of the Taiya Inlet, Skagway is approximately 15 miles (24 kilometers) from the Canadian border, making it an ideal stop for Alaska cruises traversing the Inside Passage.
Read More: Cruising Alaska’s Inside Passage — What You Need to Know
Cruise ships arrive at one of Skagway’s four piers, all of which are within easy walking distance of the town’s historic district. For those who prefer not to walk, the wheelchair-friendly Skagway SMART bus transports passengers from the cruise docks to various attractions. Many shore excursions also provide transport from the pier.
Local Cuisine in Skagway, Alaska
If you want to savor local flavors, Skagway has plenty to offer:
- Skagway Fish Company: Renowned for having the best fish and chips in town, this spot is a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts.
- Liarsville Camp: Enjoy an all-you-can-eat feast featuring Alaskan dishes, live entertainment, and gold-panning activities.
- Red Onion Saloon: This historic bar from the Gold Rush era is an excellent place to have a drink and also provides tours of its upstairs brothel museum.
- Skagway Brewing Company: Beer lovers should try their signature Spruce Tip Blonde Ale, crafted from freshly picked local Sitka spruce tips.
- Skagway Spirits Distillery: The only distillery in town, this is the perfect venue to taste handcrafted vodka or gin, along with bottles available for purchase as souvenirs.
- Dejon Delights: A specialty food shop where you can sample locally smoked salmon and halibut. They also carry regional favorites like reindeer jerky and spruce-tip syrup and can ship their smoked fish to your home.
Shopping in Skagway
The historic district of Skagway features boardwalks lined with diverse shops, from quirky souvenir outlets to local artisan stores and art galleries.
Look for items marked with the “Made in Skagway” label to ensure you acquire locally crafted goods. Notable shops include:
- A Fine Line: Specializing in hand-painted porcelain jewelry.
- Translucent Treasures: Known for stunning stained glass sun catchers.
- Glacial Naturals: A shop offering locally made soaps and tinctures.
Cultural Attractions in Skagway
If you’re keen to explore Skagway’s history, your first stop should be the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park Visitor Center.
At the center, you can view a 25-minute film titled Gold Fever: Race to the Klondike, which introduces the Gold Rush period. The park also offers rangers for free-guided tours of downtown Skagway, featuring historic sites like the Mascot Saloon Museum and the Moore Homestead, the town’s oldest cabin.
For a deeper understanding, head to the Skagway Museum, which contains the largest collection of Gold Rush artifacts in town. Additionally, you can find native Alaskan beadwork, carvings, and even a Tlingit canoe on exhibit.
Located just outside of Skagway, Jewell Gardens is not to be missed. You can stroll through picturesque flower gardens, tour the grounds, and watch demonstrations at Alaska’s only public glassblowing studio. The garden’s café serves fresh meals made with ingredients grown on-site.
Top Cruise Excursions in Skagway
Skagway features a wide variety of shore excursions, from traditional sightseeing adventures to thrilling outdoor activities. Here are some excellent options:
White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad
The White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad is the most popular excursion in Skagway, following the old narrow-gauge route from the Gold Rush era. Tour options include half-day trips to the White Pass Summit and full-day excursions to Lake Bennett.
Chilkoot Trail Hiking
The historic Chilkoot Trail served as the main route to the Yukon goldfields during the Gold Rush. Though the entire trail is 33 miles long, day trips allow you to explore the initial section, often including visits to the ghost town of Dyea and the historic Gold Rush cemetery.
Dog Sledding Adventures
Dog sledding is another highly-rated experience suitable for families. Depending on the season, you can either ride on dirt trails or take a glacier tour, with opportunities to meet and play with adorable sled dog puppies.
Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve Rafting
Skagway proudly hosts the highest concentration of bald eagles in the world, and a rafting tour through the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve provides excellent chances to see eagles, bears, and other wildlife.
Yukon Tours
Journey along the scenic Klondike Highway into Canada’s Yukon Territory. You’ll be treated to breathtaking views and excellent photo opportunities along the way, including stops at the “Welcome to Alaska” and “Yukon – Larger Than Life” signs. Remember to bring your passport for this adventure!
Insider’s Tip: Yakutania Point
To avoid the crowds, take the short hike from the harbor to Yakutania Point. This tranquil location provides breathtaking views of Skagway Harbor and the Chilkat Mountains.
This spot is also great for wildlife watching, as you might see seals and even whales. With picnic tables and a small shelter, it’s a prime location for a scenic lunch away from the busy areas.
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