What to Do in Skagway Cruise Port: A Complete Guide

Sitka: The Gateway to the Klondike

Sitka, Alaska, is a small town with a big history. It was once the capital of Russian Alaska, and it served as a major port for gold miners during the Klondike Gold Rush. Today, Sitka is a popular tourist destination, thanks to its stunning scenery, rich cultural heritage, and abundance of outdoor activities.

If you’re planning a cruise to Alaska, Sitka is a must-see stop. Here are just a few of the things you can do in Sitka:

  • Visit the Sitka National Historical Park, which preserves the Russian colonial era.
  • Take a walk through the Tongass National Forest, one of the largest temperate rainforests in the world.
  • Hike to the top of Mount Verstovia for stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains.
  • Go kayaking or fishing in the waters of the Sitka Sound.
  • Learn about the Tlingit culture at the Sitka Cultural Center.

With so much to see and do, Sitka is the perfect place to experience the beauty and history of Alaska.

What To Do Cost Duration
White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad $115-$175 3-4 hours
S.S. Klondike sternwheeler cruise $60-$80 1-2 hours
Skagway Historical Walking Tour $25-$35 1-2 hours
Mt. Roberts Tramway $40-$50 1-2 hours
Alaskan Salmon Bake $30-$40 1-2 hours

Things to Do in Skagway

Skagway is a charming town located in the southeast corner of Alaska. It is a popular destination for cruise ships, and there are many things to do in Skagway for visitors of all ages. Here are a few of the top things to do in Skagway:

  • Visit the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. This park is home to many historical buildings and artifacts from the Klondike Gold Rush, including the White Pass Trail, which was used by thousands of prospectors in their journey to the Klondike. Visitors can also learn about the history of the gold rush at the park’s visitor center.
  • Take a White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad Tour. This scenic train ride takes passengers through the mountains and along the Yukon River. The train stops at several points along the way, including the Summit, which is the highest point on the route.
  • Explore the Skagway Historic District. This district is home to many historical buildings, including the Arctic Brotherhood Hall, the Skagway Grand Hotel, and the St. George’s Anglican Church. Visitors can learn about the history of Skagway and see some of the town’s most iconic landmarks.
  • Go hiking or biking in the Tongass National Forest. The Tongass National Forest is located just outside of Skagway and offers a variety of hiking and biking trails. Visitors can hike through old-growth forests, past glaciers, and to waterfalls.
  • Visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. This center is home to a variety of Alaskan wildlife, including bears, wolves, moose, and caribou. Visitors can learn about the animals and see them up close.
  • Take a boat tour of the Inside Passage. The Inside Passage is a scenic waterway that runs along the coast of Alaska. Visitors can take a boat tour of the Inside Passage and see whales, seals, and other wildlife.
  • Go fishing or hunting. Skagway is located in a prime area for fishing and hunting. Visitors can fish for salmon, halibut, and trout, and hunt for moose, bear, and caribou.
  • Visit the local breweries and restaurants. Skagway has a variety of breweries and restaurants that offer a variety of local and international cuisine. Visitors can enjoy a pint of beer at one of the town’s many breweries or sample the local seafood at one of its many restaurants.
  • Attend one of the many festivals or events. Skagway hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year. Some of the most popular events include the Skagway Fourth of July Celebration, the Skagway Winter Carnival, and the Skagway Arts Festival.

Where to Stay in Skagway

There are a variety of places to stay in Skagway, including hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, hostels, cabins, houseboats, and camping. Here are a few of the best places to stay in Skagway:

  • Hotels
  • The Westmark White Pass & Yukon Hotel is a historic hotel located in the heart of Skagway. The hotel offers a variety of amenities, including a spa, a fitness center, and a rooftop restaurant.
  • The Gold Rush Hotel & Suites is another historic hotel located in Skagway. The hotel offers a variety of amenities, including a heated indoor pool, a hot tub, and a fitness center.
  • The Skagway Inn is a budget-friendly hotel located in Skagway. The hotel offers basic amenities, including a free continental breakfast and free Wi-Fi.
  • Motels
  • The Skagway Motel is a budget-friendly motel located in Skagway. The motel offers basic amenities, including a free continental breakfast and free Wi-Fi.
  • The Alpine Motel is a family-friendly motel located in Skagway. The motel offers a variety of amenities, including a heated indoor pool, a hot tub, and a playground.
  • The Klondike Motel is a historic motel located in Skagway. The motel offers a variety of amenities, including a free continental breakfast and free Wi-Fi.
  • Bed and breakfasts
  • The Gold Rush Bed and Breakfast is a historic bed and breakfast located in Skagway. The bed and breakfast offers a variety of amenities, including a free continental breakfast and free Wi-Fi.
  • The Skagway Bed and Breakfast is a cozy bed and breakfast located in Skagway. The bed and breakfast offers a variety of amenities, including a free continental breakfast and free Wi-Fi.
  • The Eagle Eye Bed and Breakfast is a waterfront bed and breakfast located in Skagway. The bed and breakfast offers a variety of amenities, including a free continental breakfast and free Wi-Fi.
  • Hostels
  • The Skagway Hostel is a budget-

What to Do in Skagway Cruise Port?

Skagway is a small town in southeast Alaska that is home to the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. The town is located at the end of the White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad, which was built in the late 1800s to transport gold prospectors to the Klondike gold fields. Today, Skagway is a popular tourist destination, and there are many things to see and do in the town.

Here are a few of the top things to do in Skagway:

  • Visit the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. The park is home to a number of historical buildings, including the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad Depot, the Skagway Wharf, and the Arctic Brotherhood Hall. The park also offers a variety of interpretive programs and exhibits that tell the story of the Klondike Gold Rush.
  • Take a White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad train ride. The train ride is a great way to experience the stunning scenery of the White Pass and the Yukon Territory. The train ride takes about 4 hours and travels through some of the most beautiful mountains in North America.
  • Hike the Chilkoot Trail. The Chilkoot Trail is a 33-mile hiking trail that leads from Skagway to the Yukon Territory. The trail was used by gold prospectors during the Klondike Gold Rush, and it is still a popular hiking destination today. The trail is challenging, but it offers stunning views of the mountains and glaciers.
  • Visit the Raptor Center. The Raptor Center is a rehabilitation center for injured birds of prey. The center offers a variety of educational programs and exhibits, and visitors can see a variety of birds of prey up close.
  • Take a cruise on the Inside Passage. The Inside Passage is a scenic waterway that winds its way through the mountains and islands of southeast Alaska. A cruise on the Inside Passage is a great way to see some of the most beautiful scenery in the world.

How to Get to Skagway

There are a few different ways to get to Skagway. Here are the main options:

  • By plane: The closest airport to Skagway is the Juneau International Airport (JNU). The airport is located about 100 miles from Skagway, and there are a number of daily flights from Juneau to Skagway.
  • By train: The White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad offers train service from Skagway to Whitehorse, Yukon Territory. The train ride takes about 4 hours and offers stunning views of the mountains and glaciers.
  • By bus: There are a number of bus companies that offer service from Anchorage to Skagway. The bus ride takes about 10 hours.
  • By car: It is possible to drive to Skagway from Anchorage, but the drive is long and challenging. The drive takes about 12 hours.
  • By boat: There are a number of cruise ships that stop in Skagway. The cruise ships typically stop in Skagway for a few hours, and passengers can disembark to explore the town.

Tips for Visiting Skagway

Here are a few tips for visiting Skagway:

  • Plan your trip in advance. Skagway is a popular tourist destination, and it can get busy during the summer months. Book your accommodations and transportation in advance to avoid disappointment.
  • Book your accommodations early. Skagway is a small town, and accommodations can fill up quickly during the summer months. Book your accommodations as early as possible to ensure that you have a place to stay.
  • Bring warm clothes. The weather in Skagway can be cold, even in the summer months. Be sure to pack warm clothes, including a coat, hat, gloves, and boots.
  • Wear comfortable shoes. There are a lot of stairs in Skagway, and you will be doing a lot of walking. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes that you can walk in for long periods of time.
  • Be prepared for rain. Skagway is a rainy town. Be sure to pack an umbrella or raincoat in case of rain.
  • Don’t forget your camera! Skagway is a beautiful town, and there are many photo opportunities. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning scenery.

Skagway is a beautiful town with a rich history. There are many things to see and do in Skagway, and it is a great place to visit for a few days or a week.

What are the best things to do in Skagway?

  • Visit the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that tells the story of the 1898 gold rush.
  • Take a scenic train ride along the White Pass & Yukon Route, a historic railway that winds through the mountains of the Coast Range.
  • Hike or bike the Chilkoot Trail, a challenging but rewarding hike that follows the route taken by gold seekers in the 1890s.
  • Visit the Skagway Museum, which houses exhibits on the town’s history and culture.
  • Take a guided tour of the town, which will introduce you to its many historic buildings and sites.

What is the best time to visit Skagway?

The best time to visit Skagway is during the summer months, from June to September. This is when the weather is warm and sunny, and there are plenty of activities to enjoy. However, the town can be very busy during this time, so it’s important to book your accommodation and activities in advance.

How do I get to Skagway?

The easiest way to get to Skagway is by cruise ship. There are also a few airlines that fly into the town’s airport, which is located about 10 miles outside of Skagway. You can also drive to Skagway from Whitehorse, Yukon, which is about a 5-hour drive.

Where should I stay in Skagway?

There are a variety of hotels, B&Bs, and hostels in Skagway. The best place to stay will depend on your budget and interests. If you’re looking for a central location, consider staying in the town’s historic district. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, there are a few hotels and hostels outside of town.

What are the best restaurants in Skagway?

Skagway has a variety of restaurants to choose from, serving everything from seafood to Italian food. Some of the most popular restaurants include the Skagway Brewing Company, the Red Onion Saloon, and the Klondike Restaurant.

What are the best shops in Skagway?

Skagway has a number of shops selling souvenirs, clothing, and outdoor gear. Some of the most popular shops include the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park Visitor Center, the Skagway General Store, and the Northern Lights Trading Company.

What are the best things to do for free in Skagway?

There are a number of free things to do in Skagway, including visiting the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, taking a walk along the waterfront, and exploring the town’s historic district. You can also take a free shuttle to the White Pass & Yukon Route train depot.

Skagway is a charming town with a rich history and plenty to offer visitors. Whether you’re interested in learning about the Klondike Gold Rush, taking in the stunning scenery, or simply enjoying a relaxing vacation, Skagway has something for everyone.

Here are a few of the highlights:

  • The Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of the region. Visitors can learn about the prospectors who came to Skagway in search of gold, the challenges they faced, and the impact the Gold Rush had on the town.
  • The White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad is a National Historic Landmark that takes passengers on a scenic journey through the mountains. The railroad is a great way to see some of the most beautiful scenery in Alaska.
  • The Skagway Historic District is home to a variety of historic buildings, including the Arctic Brotherhood Hall, the Skagway Wharf, and the St. Mary’s Episcopal Church. These buildings offer a glimpse into Skagway’s past and are a great place to learn about the town’s history.
  • The Chilkoot Trail is a challenging but rewarding hiking trail that leads to the summit of Mount Chilkoot. The trail is a great way to experience the rugged beauty of the Alaskan wilderness.

Skagway is a truly unique destination that offers visitors a variety of experiences. Whether you’re looking for history, adventure, or relaxation, you’re sure to find it in Skagway.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.