Skagway, Alaska
What to do in Skagway, Alaska Cruise Port
Skagway, Alaska is known for its abundance of outdoor activities. From hiking and biking trails to kayaking and fishing, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Visitors can explore the area's stunning natural beauty, including glaciers, mountains, and forests. There are also plenty of opportunities to learn about the area's rich history, with museums, historic sites, and cultural attractions. For those looking for a more adventurous experience, there are plenty of opportunities for whitewater rafting, zip-lining, and even dog sledding. No matter what your interests are, Skagway has something to offer.
Downtown Skagway
While very small, downtown Skagway is charming and worth exploring. You’ll find little shops lining the main street (Broadway) including jewelry stores, a candy shop, saloons, brewery and a museum. If you’re looking to fire off a quick email to your poor family back at home, the town’s Library offers free Wifi. While roaming the small, mining-town you may find yourself instinctively reaching for your six-shooter. But don’t worry, those times have passed. Relax, you’re safe.
Fishing
Fishing is another popular activity for cruise passengers visiting Skagway, Alaska. With its abundance of rivers, lakes, and streams, Skagway is a great place to cast a line. Whether you're an experienced angler or a novice, you'll find plenty of opportunities to catch salmon, trout, and other fish. You can also take a guided fishing tour to get the most out of your experience.
Pan for Gold
As our great ancestors did, you too can actually pan for gold while in Skagway. This is an obvious favorite choice, and not just for those that love to play Mega Millions. You’ll experience Alaska’s beauty while hoping that shiny nugget makes its way into your pan. Many of these tour options also end with a delicious salmon bake. So, even if you don’t strike it rich, you still win in the end.
White Pass Summit & Yukon Route
The original gold prospectors battled this mountain landscape in search of gold. You can still see the original “Klondike Trail” worn into the rocks. On your way to the Summit, you’ll experience waterfalls, glaciers, tunnels, gorges, and many other natural phenomena and historical landmarks. One of the most popular ways to explore White Pass Summit is by train. But, make sure to book early as this sells out. Additionally, you can choose to go via bus, rental car, or by air!
Glacier Tour
Most aren’t surprised to hear that Skagway, Alasa has glaciers. But, most aren’t aware of how beautiful and exciting are these natural phenomena. You can get up close by bus, ATV, ferry or by foot. Just make sure to bundle up.
Wildlife Viewing
Wildlife viewing is a popular activity for cruise passengers visiting Skagway, Alaska. With its vast wilderness and abundant wildlife, Skagway is a great place to observe animals in their natural habitat. You can spot bald eagles, bears, moose, and other animals in the area. You can also take a guided wildlife tour to get the most out of your experience.
Hike, Kayak, Mountain-Climb, or Explore via Horseback
For our more active cruisers, you’ll have plenty of chances to brake a sweat while exploring beautiful Skagway. Choose your favorite athletic mode of transportation and get deep into Skagway and all it has to offer.
Dog Sledding
Explore Skagway like those early pioneers a hundred years ago. You’ll find a number of options to learn about the dog-sledding days and to experience it for yourself. It’s no wonder why this option is so popular with adventure seekers, nature enthusiasts and animal lovers alike.
Museums and AttractionsSkagway is home to a number of museums and attractions that celebrate its gold rush history. These include the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, the Skagway Museum, and the Red Onion Saloon. There are also a number of outdoor activities available, such as hiking, fishing, and kayaking.Shopping near Skagway, Alaska Cruise Port
Skagway, Alaska is known for its unique souvenir shops, art galleries, and jewelry stores. The town is also home to a variety of specialty stores, including a candy shop, a toy store, and a bookstore. Visitors can also find a variety of outdoor gear, clothing, and gifts.
The Skagway Fish Company
The Skagway Fish Company is a great place to find souvenirs and gifts from Alaska. Located right near the cruise port, this store offers a wide selection of locally made items, including jewelry, clothing, and artwork. They also have a great selection of smoked salmon, halibut, and other seafood products that make great gifts for friends and family back home.
The Red Onion Saloon
The Red Onion Saloon is a great place to find unique souvenirs from Skagway. This historic saloon has been around since 1898 and offers a wide selection of locally made items, including jewelry, clothing, and artwork. They also have a great selection of books and postcards that make great gifts for friends and family back home.
The Skagway Museum
The Skagway Museum is a great place to find souvenirs and gifts from Alaska. Located right near the cruise port, this museum offers a wide selection of locally made items, including jewelry, clothing, and artwork. They also have a great selection of books and postcards that make great gifts for friends and family back home. The museum also offers guided tours of the area, giving visitors a chance to learn more about the history of Skagway and the surrounding area.
Beaches in Skagway, Alaska
Gold Rush HistorySkagway is a small town in Alaska that was founded during the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 1890s. It was a major gateway for prospectors heading to the gold fields of the Yukon. Today, the town is a popular tourist destination, with many of its original buildings still standing and a number of museums and attractions dedicated to its gold rush history.Attractions in Skagway, Alaska
Skagway, Alaska is a popular cruise port destination for travelers looking to explore the natural beauty of the area. Excursions include activities such as hiking, biking, and kayaking, as well as sightseeing tours of the local area. Visitors can also take a scenic train ride through the mountains, or explore the local history and culture. For those looking for a more adventurous experience, there are opportunities to go dog sledding, panning for gold, or even take a helicopter ride over the glaciers. No matter what type of experience you're looking for, Skagway has something for everyone.
Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park
The Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park is a popular tourist attraction in Skagway, Alaska. It is a park that commemorates the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 1890s. The park features a number of historic buildings, including the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad Depot, the Moore Cabin, and the Red Onion Saloon. Visitors can also explore the park's trails and learn about the history of the area.
Chilkoot Trail
The Chilkoot Trail is a popular tourist attraction in Skagway, Alaska. It is a 33-mile trail that was used by prospectors during the Klondike Gold Rush. The trail is a challenging hike that takes visitors through the mountains and valleys of the region, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It is a great way to experience the beauty of the area and learn about the history of the area.
Self Guided Hikes
There are multiple hikes available by foot straight from your cruise ship. Save some money by this self-guided option. Ranging from simple to difficult, you’ll find these trail options within walking distance from your port: Yukutania Point, Lower Reid Falls and Gold Rush Cemetery; Smugglers Cove, Lower Dewey Lake or Sturgil’s Landing.
Red Onion Saloon (Brothel) Tour
Yup, brothels were a real thing and this is the town’s last remaining one in Skagway. For $10, you’ll be guide through the attraction by a “madame” who has some secrets to tell.
Skagway Museum
The Skagway Museum is a popular tourist attraction in Skagway, Alaska. It is a museum that showcases the history of the area, from the Klondike Gold Rush to the present day. The museum features a number of exhibits, including artifacts from the gold rush era, photographs, and interactive displays. Visitors can learn about the history of the area and the people who lived there.
White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad
The White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad is a popular tourist attraction in Skagway, Alaska. It is a historic railway that was built in 1898 to connect the port of Skagway to the Klondike gold fields. The railway is a scenic ride that takes passengers through the mountains and valleys of the region, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It is a great way to experience the beauty of the area and learn about the history of the area.
Skagway Fish Hatchery
The Skagway Fish Hatchery is a popular tourist attraction in Skagway, Alaska. It is a hatchery that raises and releases salmon into the local waters. Visitors can learn about the life cycle of salmon and the importance of the hatchery in preserving the local salmon population. The hatchery also offers educational programs and tours for visitors to learn more about the hatchery and the salmon.
Gold Rush Cemetery
Those were some rough times and not everyone made it. Well, nobody really made it that was alive back then, but you know what we mean. Some of the men and women who perished in the pursuit of gold can be found at the Gold Rush Cemetery. It’s found by the White Pass Railroad tracks at the north end of town.
Polar Plunge
Feeling a little sleepy? Jump into the glacier-fed Dewey Lake within walking distance of your port. Water temps hover around 40 degrees so bring a warm coffee or hot chocolate as a reward for your bravery.
Skagway Brewing Company
Grab a pint or some lunch at this old-time brewery. If you’re looking for some local flavor, ask for the Spruce Tip Ale. Rather than hops, they use spruce tips! This local favorite is often sold out, but worth asking.
Best cruise excursions in Skagway, Alaska
We've analyzed tens of thousands of cruise tours to find your ideal attraction while in port. Based on these reviews, here are the Best Cruise Excursions in Skagway, Alaska
Skagway, Alaska cruise port map
White Pass & Yukon Route RailroadThe White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad is a historic railway that runs from Skagway to Whitehorse, Yukon. It was built during the Klondike Gold Rush to transport prospectors and supplies to the gold fields. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction, offering scenic views of the mountains and glaciers along its route.Skagway, Alaska Cruise Port Terminals
Cruise ships typically dock at the Skagway Small Boat Harbor, located at the end of Broadway Street.
Broadway Dock
Broadway Dock also offers very easy access to railroad excursions. The rail service picks up at the end of the pier, a quick walk from your ship. Broadway Terminal is centrally positioned in Skagway’s downtown area and offers convenience to those heading into town.
Ore Dock
Aptly named, Ore Dock once served useful in transporting the mineral out of the Skagway area. When the ore-trade slowed and tourism grew, usage was converted to a passenger cruise port.
Railroad Dock
The Railroad Pier is large enough to accommodate two large cruise ships. During Alaska cruise season, you’ll find two ships docked here more days than not. This dock is very convenient for those participating in a railway excursion, as the rail service is offered directly from the pier.