Skagway Travel Guide: Best Things to Do, Where to Stay, Where to Eat & Planning Tips

Skagway is one of the most unique destinations in Alaska’s Inside Passage. Known for its Gold Rush history, colorful wooden buildings, mountain scenery, and the famous White Pass & Yukon Route Railway, Skagway attracts both cruise passengers and independent travelers exploring Alaska and the Yukon. Unlike many Southeast Alaska towns, Skagway is connected to the rest of North America by road through the scenic South Klondike Highway. This makes it popular not only for Alaska cruises, but also for road trips, RV travelers, and visitors driving between Alaska and Canada. In this Skagway travel guide, we share our firsthand experiences, practical tips, transportation advice, and recommendations for the best things to do, where to stay, where to eat, and how to plan your visit to Skagway.

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Our Experience Visiting Skagway

Chris and I visited Skagway several times during our Alaska travels, mostly while cruising through the Inside Passage and during Alaska-Canada road trip. Over the years, we explored the town independently, walked its historic streets many times, and experienced some of the area’s most famous attractions and scenic routes.

One of the things we enjoy most about Skagway is its atmosphere. Unlike many Alaska ports of call, Skagway still feels strongly connected to its Gold Rush past.

Wooden boardwalks, historic buildings, old saloons, and mountain scenery create a very unique setting that feels completely different from larger Juneau or Ketchikan.

During our visits, we explored downtown Skagway on foot, photographed historic buildings and trains around Broadway, visited Gold Rush landmarks, and traveled through the spectacular White Pass area. The scenery along the Klondike Highway and White Pass route is easily some of the most dramatic landscapes in Southeast Alaska.

Over time, we also created detailed Skagway guides covering independent exploration, cruise planning, transportation, shore excursions, hiking, and practical travel tips based on our firsthand experiences.

Where Is Skagway?

Skagway is located in Southeast Alaska at the northern end of the Inside Passage, close to the border with Canada’s Yukon Territory.

The town sits between steep mountains along Taiya Inlet and is surrounded by dramatic scenery shaped by glaciers, waterfalls, and rugged coastal landscapes.

Unlike most Southeast Alaska communities, Skagway is connected to the North American road system through the South Klondike Highway. This scenic route connects Skagway with:

• Whitehorse, Yukon (110 miles)
• the Alaska Highway (204 miles)
• road trip routes through Canada and Alaska

Because of this unique location, Skagway attracts:

• cruise passengers
• RV travelers
• road trippers
• ferry travelers
• independent Alaska travelers

Skagway also played a major role during the Klondike Gold Rush in the late 1890s and became one of the main gateway towns for prospectors traveling toward the Yukon gold fields.

How to Get to Skagway

Skagway can be reached by cruise ship, ferry, plane, or road. Unlike many Southeast Alaska towns, Skagway is connected to the North American road system through the scenic South Klondike Highway.

Most visitors arrive in Skagway during an Alaska cruise through the Inside Passage. The town is one of the most popular cruise ports in Alaska and can become very busy during peak summer season.

Independent travelers often reach Skagway by:

• driving from Yukon and Canada
• Alaska Marine Highway ferries
• small regional flights
• cruise ship

The South Klondike Highway connects Skagway with:

• Whitehorse, Yukon
• the Alaska Highway
• road trip routes across Canada and Alaska

We also created a detailed guide explaining how to get to Skagway, Alaska, including transportation tips and practical planning advice.

However, most visitors arrive in Skagway on a cruise ship as part of a larger Inside Passage itinerary. If you are cruising Alaska, take a look at our Alaska Cruise Planner featuring Alaska cruise ports, shore excursions, transportation tips, and itinerary ideas.

Is Skagway Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Skagway is one of the most interesting and scenic destinations in Southeast Alaska, especially for travelers who enjoy history, mountains, and independent exploration.

One of the biggest highlights is the town’s strong Gold Rush atmosphere. Unlike many cruise ports focused mostly on shops and excursions, Skagway still feels deeply connected to its Klondike history.

Visitors can experience:

• historic wooden buildings
• mountain scenery
• scenic railway journeys
• hiking trails
• waterfalls
• Yukon road trips
• Gold Rush landmarks

Skagway is also one of the best Alaska cruise ports for exploring independently because downtown is compact and very walkable.

Another thing that makes Skagway special is its location. The surrounding scenery along White Pass and the South Klondike Highway is some of the most dramatic in Alaska and Yukon.

If you enjoy local history and surprising details about the town, also check our guide with fascinating facts about Skagway.

Best Things to Do in Skagway

Skagway offers a mix of Gold Rush history, mountain scenery, scenic transportation, and outdoor adventures. Visitors can spend the day walking historic streets, riding one of the world’s most famous railways, or exploring dramatic landscapes along the Yukon border.

Here are some of the best things to do in Skagway.

Walk Historic Downtown Skagway

Downtown Skagway is one of the best-preserved Gold Rush towns in Alaska. Wooden boardwalks, colorful historic buildings, old saloons, and mountain views create a very unique atmosphere that feels different from most other Alaska cruise ports.

Walking around downtown, visitors can see:

• historic Broadway Street
• Gold Rush era buildings
• museums and visitor centers
• old hotels and saloons
• restored storefronts
• mountain scenery surrounding town

Much of downtown is part of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park.

We also created a detailed guide about exploring the Skagway Historic District.

Visit Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park

Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park is one of the most important historical attractions in Skagway and helps visitors better understand the dramatic events of the Klondike Gold Rush.

During the late 1890s, thousands of stampeders passed through Skagway on their way to the Yukon gold fields. Today, the national historical park preserves many buildings and stories connected to that period.

Visitors can explore:

• historic buildings
• ranger programs
• museum exhibits
• old storefronts
• Gold Rush history displays

The main visitor center is located directly in downtown Skagway and is easy to visit independently while walking around town.

Ride the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway

The White Pass & Yukon Route Railway is easily one of the most famous attractions in Skagway and one of the most scenic train rides in Alaska.

Built during the Klondike Gold Rush in 1898, the narrow-gauge railway climbs steeply from Skagway toward White Pass and the Yukon. Along the route, passengers enjoy spectacular views of:

• mountains
• waterfalls
• glaciers
• cliffs
• historic railway bridges

The train departs directly from downtown Skagway, only steps from the cruise docks.

Many visitors consider this one of the absolute highlights of their Alaska trip.

We also created a detailed White Pass train review and guide with practical tips and what to expect during the journey.

Drive the South Klondike Highway

One of the things that makes Skagway unique in Southeast Alaska is road access to Canada and the Yukon through the South Klondike Highway.

The drive between Skagway and Whitehorse is considered one of the most scenic road trips in the region. Along the route, visitors can experience:

• White Pass mountain scenery
• waterfalls
• alpine landscapes
• lakes
• dramatic viewpoints
• historic Gold Rush routes

Many travelers rent a car in Skagway or join Yukon road tours during their visit.

If you plan to cross the Canadian border, remember to bring your passport. Weather conditions can also change quickly around White Pass, even during summer.

Visit Gold Rush Cemetery & Reid Falls

The Gold Rush Cemetery is one of the most interesting historic sites near Skagway. Located just outside downtown, the cemetery contains graves connected to Skagway’s rough Gold Rush history, including the famous outlaw Soapy Smith.

A short walk beyond the cemetery leads to beautiful Reid Falls, one of the easiest waterfalls to visit near town.

This area is popular for:

• short walks
• photography
• local history
• independent exploration

Many visitors combine the cemetery and waterfall with exploring downtown Skagway during the same day.

We also created a detailed guide about Skagway’s Gold Rush Cemetery & Reid Falls.

Hike Near Skagway

One of the biggest surprises for many visitors using this Skagway travel guide is how many beautiful hiking trails are located close to town.

Popular hikes near Skagway include:

• Lower Dewey Lake Trail
• Upper Dewey Lake Trail
• Yakutania Point Trail
• Smuggler’s Cove Trail

Some trails are short and relatively easy, while others climb steeply and offer panoramic views over Skagway, Taiya Inlet, and surrounding mountains.

Because weather conditions can change quickly, hikers should always bring:

• layers
• rain gear
• sturdy footwear

Trails can also remain muddy even during summer because of frequent rain in Southeast Alaska.

Explore Skagway On Your Own

One of the best things about Skagway is how easy it is to explore independently. Downtown is compact, walkable, and many attractions are located close to the cruise docks and historic center.

Visitors exploring on their own can easily combine:

• Broadway Street
• Gold Rush landmarks
• museums
• local restaurants
• hiking trails
• Reid Falls
• waterfront walks

At the same time, more remote experiences like Yukon excursions, helicopter tours, and some adventure activities are usually easier with organized tours.

We also created a detailed Skagway on your own guide focused on DIY exploration, transportation, and practical planning tips.

Take a Skagway Shore Excursion

Skagway offers some of the most scenic shore excursions in Alaska. Many tours focus on mountain scenery, Gold Rush history, and adventures into the Yukon.

Some of the most popular excursions include:

• Full-Day Tour of the Yukon
• Summit Experience & Yukon Suspension Bridge Tour
• Musher’s Camp & Sled Dog Adventure
• Scenic River Float Tour
• Grizzly Falls Ziplining Expedition

Many visitors combine one larger excursion with independent time exploring downtown Skagway.

We also created a detailed guide covering the best Skagway shore excursions besad on our experiences.

Find Free & Budget-Friendly Activities

One of the nice things about Skagway is that many attractions can be explored without spending a lot of money. This Skagway travel guide includes several activities that are inexpensive or completely free.

Budget-friendly things to do include:

• walking around historic downtown
• visiting Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park
• hiking local trails
• exploring Reid Falls
• photographing White Pass scenery
• walking the waterfront
• visiting local museums and historic sites

Because downtown is compact and walkable, many visitors can explore a large part of Skagway independently without booking expensive transportation.

We also created a guide featuring budget-friendly and free things to do in Skagway.

Take the Fast Ferry to Haines

One of the best day trips from Skagway is taking the fast ferry to Haines. The ferry ride itself is very scenic and travels through beautiful Southeast Alaska coastal landscapes surrounded by mountains and waterfalls.

Haines offers a very different atmosphere than Skagway and is popular for:

• wildlife viewing
• local art galleries
• scenic drives
• hiking
• small-town Alaska atmosphere

Many travelers visit Haines as a self-guided day trip directly from Skagway.

We also created a detailed guide about the Skagway to Haines fast ferry and how to plan this day trip.

Best Skagway Itineraries

How much time you need in Skagway depends on your travel style. Cruise passengers often have only one day, while independent travelers and road trippers may spend several days exploring the area and nearby Yukon.

One Day in Skagway

With one day in Skagway, many visitors focus on:

• historic downtown
• White Pass train ride
• Gold Rush landmarks
• Reid Falls
• local restaurants and shops

We also created a detailed one day in Skagway itinerary for cruise passengers and short visits.

Two to Three Days in Skagway

Travelers staying longer can experience much more beyond the cruise crowds.

With extra time, you can add:

• driving the South Klondike Highway
• Yukon day trips
• hiking trails
• scenic photography stops
• local museums
• quieter evenings in town
• additional outdoor activities and excursions

Spending several days in Skagway also gives more flexibility with weather and transportation schedules, especially for travelers arriving by ferry or road trip.

Where to Stay in Skagway

Skagway offers a mix of historic inns, small hotels, bed and breakfasts, and RV parks. Most accommodations are located close to downtown, which makes it easy to explore the town on foot.

This Skagway travel guide recommends booking accommodations early during summer because the town is small and rooms can sell out quickly during cruise season.

Downtown Skagway

Downtown is the best area for:

• first-time visitors
• walking access to attractions
• restaurants and shops
• historic atmosphere

Popular downtown accommodations include:

• Historic Skagway Inn
• Pack Train Inn

RV Parks & Campgrounds

Skagway is also popular with RV travelers and road trippers arriving from Yukon and Canada.

Popular RV and camping options include:

• Pullen Creek RV Park
• Garden City RV Park

These locations provide easy access to downtown while still offering a quieter atmosphere compared to the busy cruise areas.

Where to Eat in Skagway

Despite its small size, Skagway has a surprisingly good mix of restaurants, breweries, cafés, and historic saloons. Many places are located within walking distance of downtown and the cruise docks.

This Skagway travel guide recommends trying at least one historic saloon or local brewery during your visit because they are part of the town’s Gold Rush atmosphere.

Popular places to eat in Skagway include:

• Skagway Brewing Company
• Red Onion Saloon
• The Station Bar & Grill
• Woadie’s South East Seafood
• Glacial Coffeehouse

Some popular local favorites include:

• salmon dishes
• halibut fish and chips
• seafood chowder
• reindeer sausage
• fresh baked pastries

During peak cruise hours, restaurants in downtown Skagway can become very busy, especially around lunch time.

How to Get Around Skagway

One of the advantages of visiting Skagway is how easy it is to explore without a car. Most attractions in downtown Skagway are located within walking distance of the cruise docks and historic center.

Visitors usually get around Skagway by:

• walking
• shuttle transportation
• rental car
• bicycle or e-bike
• tour buses

Walking Around Downtown

Downtown Skagway is compact and very walkable. Historic buildings, restaurants, museums, Broadway Street, and many attractions are located close together.

Rental Cars

Rental cars can be useful for travelers wanting to drive the South Klondike Highway independently or explore areas outside town at their own pace. The most popular rentals are:  Affordable Car Rental and Avis.

Bikes & E-Bikes

During summer, visitors can also rent bicycles and e-bikes in Skagway. This can be a fun way to explore areas around town and nearby scenic roads. Most popular rentals: Sockeye Cycle Co, Klondike Electric Bicycles and Skagway Scooters.

SMART Bus

Skagway also operates a local SMART shuttle bus during summer, connecting cruise docks, downtown areas, and some attractions around town.

We also created a detailed Skagway Cruise Port Guide & Visitor Tips article with transportation information, dock logistics, and practical cruise planning advice.

Best Time for Visiting Skagway

The main tourist season in Skagway runs from May through September. Summer brings long daylight hours, active cruise season, and the best conditions for scenic drives, hiking, and outdoor activities.

May & Early June

Many travelers consider May and early June one of the best times for visiting Skagway because:

• cruise crowds are usually smaller
• mountain snow scenery is still impressive
• waterfalls are very strong
• temperatures are comfortable

Average daytime temperatures are usually: 50–60°F (10–16°C).

July & August

July and August are the warmest and busiest months. This is peak cruise season, and Skagway can receive several large cruise ships per day.

Average daytime temperatures typically range between: 60–70°F (16–21°C).

This is one of the best periods for:

• White Pass train rides
• Yukon road trips
• hiking
• outdoor excursions

September

September often brings:

• fewer tourists
• quieter streets and trails
• early fall colors in higher elevations

Temperatures usually stay around: 50–60°F (10–16°C),

Some tours and businesses begin reducing schedules later in the month.

Winter

Winter in Skagway is much quieter and very different from cruise season. Most tourism services close, but the town remains accessible by road, ferry, and air depending on weather conditions.

Skagway Travel Tips

Planning ahead can make a huge difference while visiting Skagway, especially during busy cruise season when several ships arrive at the same time.

Here are some practical tips from this Skagway travel guide.

Book the White Pass Train Early

The White Pass & Yukon Route Railway is one of the most popular attractions in Alaska and often sells out well ahead during summer.

Bring Your Passport for Yukon Trips

Many excursions and independent road trips cross into Canada through White Pass and the Yukon. A passport is required for most travelers.

Start Exploring Early

Downtown Skagway becomes much busier after cruise passengers fully disembark. Early morning is often the best time for photography and quieter walks around town.

Dress in Layers

Weather conditions around White Pass and the Yukon can change quickly, even during summer. Temperatures in higher elevations are often much cooler than downtown Skagway.

Prepare for Steep Hiking Trails

Some hiking trails near Skagway gain elevation quickly. Good footwear and rain gear are strongly recommended.

Expect Crowds on Broadway

Broadway Street can become extremely busy during peak cruise hours, especially when multiple ships are in port.

Allow Extra Time for Border Crossings

Travelers driving independently into Canada should allow extra time for border checks, especially during busy summer afternoons.

Final Thoughts

Skagway is one of the most unique destinations in Southeast Alaska and offers much more than many visitors expect from a cruise stop. The combination of Gold Rush history, mountain scenery, scenic transportation, and road access to the Yukon creates a very different atmosphere than other Alaska cruise ports.

One of the things we enjoy most about Skagway is how easy it is to explore independently. You can spend the morning walking historic streets and visiting Gold Rush landmarks, then ride the White Pass train, drive into the Yukon, or hike mountain trails later the same day.

We hope this Skagway travel guide helps you plan a smoother and more enjoyable trip. Whether you arrive by cruise ship, ferry, or road trip through Canada and Alaska, Skagway offers some of the most spectacular scenery and fascinating history in the Inside Passage.

If you’re planning a larger trip around the state, browse our Alaska destination guides for more itineraries, travel tips, and Alaska travel inspiration.

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