There are so many things that make Skagway a fascinating place for tourists. This is one of the favorite stops for cruise ships. The city barely experiences rain, making it easy for visitors to explore the area. Its rich history is filled with notable figures and events that people take an interest in. Skagway’s tourism industry is its lifeblood. It holds hundreds of bus tours and an impressive number of cruise liners dock at the Inside Passage. With about 8,000 visitors passing through every day, the town is as busy as it can be. With that, here are some of the best things to do in Skagway, Alaska, during your vacation.
1. Marvel at the driftwood design of Arctic Brotherhood Hall (from USD 14.0)
Arctic Brotherhood Hall is a standout edifice that dominates the historical area of Skagway. The unusual architecture makes it an exciting place to visit and take photos. It is one of the most photographed properties in the whole state. Once you step close to the walls of this unique museum, you will be amazed at the sheer number of driftwood displayed with various decorative designs on them. All these were put up in 1899 to complete the whole exterior. In 2005, each of these pieces was painstakingly retouched during the place’s renovation. It now sports the original look but with a fresher appeal.
Skagway Self-Guided Audio Tour
Duration: 2 hours
2. Embark on a zip-lining experience you will never forget (from USD 238.0)
Ziplining in Skagway is one of the most exhilarating experiences you will ever have in your life. Once you arrive at your base, you cannot help but feel excited while suiting up for this wild ride. Once you take off, you get to take in amazing views of mountains, green hills, waterfalls, and rainforests. The zipline has 10 courses, each one has something special to offer. Among the best are the close flights to these glacially-fed waterfalls. These are so strong that you can feel the mist touching your skin. The zip can reach up to 45 mph (72 kph).
Grizzly Falls Ziplining Expedition
Duration: 4 hours
3. Get a close view of Pitchfork Falls
Pitchfork Falls is one amazing sight. The cascade measures 2000 feet (610 meters) from the top. Because of its size, visitors passing through Klondike Highway can see it from here. The water from the falls flows from a stream that is part of the Goat Lake network of waterways. Some experts have declared that it is higher than 2000 feet (610 meters). At this height, the falls has been named one of the tallest waterfalls in the whole world. The base of the cascading waters runs under a railroad bridge where trains managed by White Pass and Yukon Railway pass by, giving passengers a close-up view.
Pitchfork Falls
Address: Yukon Highway, Skagway, AK 99840
4. Explore Jeff Smith’s Parlor Museum (from USD 13.99)
History has it that Jeff. Smith’s Parlor Museum is one of the popular buildings in Skagway. It will be forever linked to one man, Jefferson Randolph Smith. Nicknamed Soapy, Smith occupied the building during the last three months of his life. He took refuge in the building together with his band of crooks until a gunfight took his life. Since 1935, the building was converted into a museum by a man named Martin Itjen, whose thrust is to promote Skagway as a tourist destination. Because of his efforts, the building is now a much-visited museum where relics from the gold rush, folk art pieces, and more are on display.
Skagway: Self-Guided Gold Rush Audio Tour
Duration: 3.0 hour
5. Visit the Skagway Centennial Statue
In 1997, this intriguing statue was placed within a park where the depot for White Pass trains is located. It stands as a symbol for the 100th anniversary of the Klondike Gold Rush. The statue depicts a common scenario during the time gold was discovered in the region. On its marker, the word Skagua appears. It is the etymology of the name of the city. Information on how the Tlingits lived back then is documented in the statue’s inscription. The Tlingits are the people who inhabit the villages of Chilkoot and Chilkat. This is one of the more meaningful tourist destinations in Alaska.
Skagway Centennial Statue
Address: 271 Broadway, Skagway, AK 99840, United States
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
6. Take your kids to the National Park Service Junior Ranger Activity Center
The National Park Service Junior Ranger Activity Center is there to make your vacation a fun-filled one for your children. There are so many in store for your little ones. The activities include Victorian games, Victorian dress-up, coloring pads, reading, and a lot more that center on Skagway's’ history. There are six historical areas with each one providing a different way of teaching your kid. To make it easier for them, the center provides iPad tablets to help them become a Junior Ranger at the end of the day.
National Park Service Junior Ranger Activity Center
Address: 350 Broadway, Skagway, AK 99840, United States
Website: National Park Service Junior Ranger Activity Center
7. Book an exciting tour with Frontier Excursions & Adventures
Posted by Frontier Excursions & Adventures on Thursday, 13 June 2019
Booking a tour with Frontier Excursions & Adventures brings you close to the beauty of Skagway. Aside from this, you also get to learn more about the history of the Gold Rush while taking in the lovely natural landscape of the area. There are several stops where you can take in the view while taking photographs and videos of forests, mountains, hills, and lakes. You also get to breathe the freshest air. Part of the adventure-centric activities that await you are hiking and rafting. These activities add a different kind of excitement to your vacation. You will have a memorable time with Frontier Excursions & Adventures.
Frontier Excursions & Adventures
Address: 299 Broadway, Skagway, AK 99840, United States
Website: Frontier Excursions & Adventures
Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)
8. Have the best fish and chips at Skagway Fish Company
Dinner Special: Captain Henry's Seafood Platter Pan seared fresh halibut, 2 fried halibut, 2 fried black tiger prawns, 2 mini crab cakes, and fries!
Posted by Skagway Fish Co. on Wednesday, 13 June 2018
Skagway Fish Company is the home of the best fish and chips in Alaska. If you are looking for fresh fish and seafood, this is the place to go to. The best way to enjoy the food here is to take it with beer or wine. The restaurant has an impressive line-up of the best beers and wines that you can drink in the state. When it comes to the variety of seafood served in the restaurant, you will not be short of crab, shrimps, oysters, halibut, and salmon.
Skagway Fish Company
Address: 201 Congress Way, Skagway, AK 99840, United States
Opening hours: 11am - 9pm (daily)
9. Taste Alaskan beer at Red Onion Saloon
Red Onion Saloon is the most iconic bar in Skagway. The place serves great tasting American cuisines plus the most refreshing drinks in town. Locals and visitors frequent the place because of its great vibe. During the gold rush, Red Onion Saloon opened its doors as a brothel. The brothel part is now a museum and it is the only kind in Skagway. The place has expanded and it now has a bar and a restaurant. Freshly brewed Alaskan beers are the center of attention. Do not leave the saloon without tasting a few. If beer is not your thing, then ask the bartender to mix some cocktails for you.
Red Onion Saloon
Address: 201 Broadway, Skagway, AK 99840, United States
Website: Red Onion Saloon
10. Enjoy beer and Alaskan cuisine at Skagway Brewing Company
What is the best way to end the day after a tiring day of visiting Skagway’s sites? Go to Skagway Brewing Company and grab a bottle of its famous Spruce Tip Blonde Ale. To make it a better experience, have your friends and family tag along so that you all can have a great time. Do not forget to order some food as the place serves some of the best bar grub that you will find in Skagway. All beers and food are handled only by expert hands, ensuring guests of its quality. Pair all these with the friendliest staff and you will have a great time here.
Skagway Brewing Company
Address: 250 4th Ave, Skagway, AK 99840, United States
Website: Skagway Brewing Company
Opening hours: Wed - Fri: 4:30pm - 8pm; Sat - Sun: 8am - 11am, 4:30pm - 8pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
11. Enjoy a day at Seven Pastures Disc Golf Course
Posted by Abraca David on Friday, 2 September 2016
Seven Pastures Disc Golf Course provides fun and excitement for everyone. This disc golf course is located at the back of a ball field. It is considered one of the most challenging courses of its kind in the whole country. The holes are quite challenging, which should give you the motivation to finish the whole thing. Everyone can have their turn to shoot at the kegs. This activity is a lot of fun, especially when you are with friends and family. A lot of trees block your path. It would be interesting how you would overcome this challenge.
Seven Pastures Disc Golf Course
Address: State Street, Skagway, AK 99840, United States
12. Go camping at Pullen Creek RV Park
Pullen Creek RV Park has a lot of beautiful natural scenery you can take in. From mountains, lakes, waterfalls, to fjords, you will never run out of beautiful sights to look at. Pullen Creek RV Park is one such place. You can drive your recreational vehicle here and spend some time with your family camped out in a tent within a designated area in the park. If you are interested in seeing essential tourist destinations, Klondike Gold Rush National Park and the Historic Downtown Skagway are close by.
Pullen Creek RV Park
Address: 2nd Congress Way, Skagway, AK 99840, United States OR Pullen Creek, Skagway, AK 99840
13. Go swimming in Lower Dewey Lake
Lower Dewey Lake is the perfect spot to go swimming. The lake is a great place to spend a day out with friends and family. Aside from swimming, you can also set up a picnic by the banks and share some food and drinks with everyone. The trek toward the lake from Skagway is not too difficult to follow. Along the way, there are several activities that you can do to keep the hike interesting. It offers one of the best views of the harbor below. At the end of it, you get to take a dip in the calming waters of Lower Dewey Lake.
Lower Dewey Lake
Address: Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, Skagway, Alaska
14. Tour the Historic Moore Homestead Museum
Jilkaat Kwaan dancers perform at Junior Ranger Day 2017. NPS/Renata Harrison
Posted by Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park- Skagway, Alaska on Sunday, 14 April 2019
The Homestead was where father and son, Captain William Moore and J. Bernard Moore settled before capitalizing on the gold rush. Their life reflected the massive changes brought by the gold rush to their surroundings and the people of the area. Because of its historical value, it was decided to give the homestead a restoration in 1985, its centenarian anniversary. Another restoration was done from 1995 to 1997 in time for Skagway’s 100th anniversary. Most rooms reflect its original appearance. Old photographs were used to help designers in the restoration process.
Historic Moore Homestead
Address: 400 Spring St, Skagway, AK 99840, United States
15. Catch The Days of ‘98 Show
The Days of ’98 Show opened its doors to the public and has amazed thousands of audiences since then. Soapy Smith is the central character of the show. He is the most notorious criminal in the history of Alaska. The theater portrays Smith’s important role during the gold rush era, done in a musical where local performers take center stage. His story is played out through can-can choreography, rag-time songs, and unending comedy. It is one of the most entertaining live performances you will see in Alaska. This is the show to watch if you want to learn something about Skagway’s history.
The Days of ‘98 Show
Address: 6th Ave, Skagway, AK 99840, United States
Website: The Days of ‘98 Show
16. Have a picnic at Smugglers Cove
Smuggler’s Cove is one of the most beautiful spots for having a picnic. Its coastline provides a hiking trail that leads north to Dyea. You and your family can set-up a picnic here by spending a day of fun, laughter, and food at the shore. Aside from this, you can also hike one of the trails around the area. This allows you to take in several sceneries that will take your breath away. Whether you have a picnic or take a hike with your family and friends, the beauty of Smuggler’s Cove will mesmerize you. It is the best place to spend some time with your loved ones.
Smugglers Cove
Address: Dyea Rd, Skagway, AK 99840
17. Take a guided tour at Musher’s Camp (from USD 146.0)
Musher’s Camp is one place that kids will love . This activity includes a relaxing guided tour of the sites located in the downtown area of Skagway. Some of the attractions in this activity include a crash course about dog sledding in Alaska, playing with husky pups, and roasting s’mores. You can take on a self-guided tour or choose from varied time-scheduled tours laid out for you. Set yourself in a golf-cart vehicle, pulled by several sled dogs within the woods. Your tour guide, called a musher, directs the dogs to what direction to go. This is done solely by voice command.
Musher's Camp and S'more Roasting Experience
Duration: 2 hours 45 minutes
18. Visit the local sites with Coastline Tours
Posted by Coastline limousine on Tuesday, 14 May 2019
You will have access to all the popular tours Skagway has to offer, with Coastline Tours. It does not matter how old you are because you can choose some that are appropriate for your age. You can even choose some that you and our children will enjoy. You can go up to the summit and capture the views or go dog sledding in the woods. You can also go to Emerald Lake and have a fun-filled day there. You can do all these while riding in a luxurious limousine or rugged Lincoln Navigator.
Coastline Tours
Address: 331 19th Ave, Skagway, AK 99840, United States
Website: Coastline Tours
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
19. Experience the thrill of ocean rafting (from USD 189.0)
Ocean rafting is the best activity for those who are looking to spend a whole day in the water. While hugging the shoreline, you get to see the most scenic waterfalls, flora, fauna, unvisited coves, and a lot more. The beaches you get to see are the most pristine in the state of Alaska. The whole activity lasts about two hours and your captain will make stops at these sites so that you can have your mandatory photo-op. The raft is an attraction in itself. It is designed in the same manner as the ones the Navy SEALs and the U.S. Coastguard use.
Ocean Raft Wilderness Tour from Skagway
Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes
20. Admire the photos at BearHead Photography
My gallery is up and running for the 2017 season! It was a ton of work again, but I'm happy with all the changes I made and the season ahead! If you're coming through Skagway, AK this summer let me know.
Posted by BearHead Photography LLC on Monday, 22 May 2017
BearHead Photography is an art gallery of a unique kind. This is the brainchild of wildlife photographer Barrett Hedges. His works mostly center on the indigenous wildlife found all over Skagway and Alaska. Photography is the main medium of art used here. The photographs on display also center on the natural landscape. All these are so beautiful. Hedges is an elite photographer and some of his works are used by the National Geographic Channel. His photos are almost life-like in beauty and execution.
BearHead Photography
Address: 641 Broadway Apt. 464, Skagway, AK 99840, United States
Website: BearHead Photography
Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)
21. See the massive Davidson Glacier up close (from USD 325.0)
Get close to one of Skagway’s prominent attractions, the massive Davidson Glacier. Classified as a valley glacier, tours to this place will surely take your breath away. Part of the trip to the glacier is setting sail in North America’s deepest fjord. You might be lucky enough to see dolphins, whales, sea lions, and other marine life. A quarter-mile (.4 kilometers) trek brings you to the lake where the glacier is. From here, all you need to do is hop on a canoe and row your way to the massive natural structure. This adventure is ideal for the whole family.
Glacier Point Wilderness Safari
Duration: 6 hours
22. Have a wonderful day at Liarsville Gold Rush Trail Camp & Salmon Bake (from USD 119.0)
This is going to be fun for everyone! The camp offers a delicious buffet spread that includes an Alaskan salmon grilled using alder-wood. You will get to experience Liarsville’s history through a series of exhibits. These exhibits center on the gold rush trail camps. Learn more about the history of the gold rush from the works of famous journalists. Part of this activity are visits to a brothel and laundry area where clothes worn by bordello ladies and miners are on full display. You can have your photo taken with the trail camp’s lovely Alaskan malamute.
Skagway to Liarsville Gold Rush Camp Full-Day Shore Excursion
Duration: 2 hours
23. Go on a Skagway dog sledding tour (from USD 210.0)
Taking a dog sled tour in Skagway is one of the best ways to see the sites. This tour is made more exciting as trained guides not only navigate these sites but also explain the importance of each one. Included in the tour is an allotted time to play with some puppies that will be trained as sled dogs. This is the ideal activity for all family members to participate in. Once the dogs start pulling, you will see various wildlife in their natural habitat.
Skagway: Yukon Dog Sledding and Sightseeing Shore Excursion
Duration: 6 hours
24. Learn about local history at Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park (from USD 196.0)
The Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park is entrusted with the preservation of the historical events behind the Klondike Gold Rush which happened from 1897 to 1898. Visitors get to see four areas of the park with different attractions. The first is a historic business district that spans six blocks. The second is the Chilkoot Trail. The third is a long pathway that includes the White Pass Trail. The fourth is a visitor’s center located in Seattle, Washington. The historic district is by far the most popular of all. This area takes you back to the time of the Gold Rush, with 15 buildings restored and maintained to its original form.
Chilkoot Horseback Adventure
Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
25. Ride a historic train on the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway (from USD 1199.0)
Take in the various beautiful scenery of Skagway by riding inside a historic train. You will get close up views of waterfalls, centuries-old sites, gorges, glaciers, and mountains from the comfort of your cart. The railway passes through scenic areas like Inspiration Point, Dead Horse Gulch, and Bridal Veil Falls. The end of the trip brings you to White Pass Summit. Along the way, you will see tributes given out to the original trail of the gold rush. The whole route extends 40 miles (64 kilometers) from Skagway to the White Pass Summit and passes through a couple of tunnels, on trestles, and scenic waterfalls.
White Pass & Yukon Route Railway & Private Emerald Lake Tour
Duration: 9 hour
26. Indulge in a Taiya River Floating escapade (from USD 96.0)
Set yourself on a rubber raft where you, your friends and family get to sit back and enjoy nature. This is one for a big group so you can bring everyone along. As your guide paddles along, he will offer your group information about the sites you will see, especially the ones about indigenous flora and fauna. Although the waters of the Taiya River are gentle, you are still required to wear a safety vest and rubber boots.
Skagway Shore Excursion: Scenic River Float Tour
Duration: 135 to 150 minutes
27. Take a guided bus tour
Experience Skagway in a uniquely enjoyable way by taking an adventurous ride through it. Beautiful lakes, waterfalls fed by glacier waters, and a lot more take center stage in this activity. There will be several stops along the way where you can take photos and videos. There will be plenty of opportunities to take out your camera because the scenery is amazing. Drivers handling the adventure are experienced and can handle tour-guide duties by giving you information on the sites you will pass by. They can even customize your itinerary for the day.
Skagway VIP: 3 hour Summit Adventure
Duration: 3 to 4 hours
28. Learn glassblowing at Jewell Gardens (from USD 130.0)
Jewell Gardens is a collection of beautifully landscaped gardens that takes everyone’s breath away. One of its main areas is a vegetable garden filled with organic plants. A G-scale train roams the area and is a sight to behold. All these are built on the grounds where the Henry Clark Farm is. One of its’ main features is its two glassblowing studios. You can also check out the hand-crafted pieces at the gallery. If you get hungry, you can grab a snack or lunch at Poppies. Aside from these, you can also stroll along with the garden and explore the blooming plants and flowers.
Glassblowing Experience
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
29. Marvel at the sites while sea-kayaking (from USD 213.0)
Get ready for an experience you will never forget in Skagway. You get to ride a jet-powered kayak. Get a crash course from an experienced guide regarding this activity. Once that is done, you get to ride in your kayak and ride the waves while taking in the luscious landscape of Skagway. Two of the famous sites you will see are the Taiya River and Smuggler’s Cove. Sea and land creatures will be in full view for you during your kayaking trip. This includes dolphins, eagles, and bears. Have your smartphone or camera ready so that you can easily snap some photos.
Alaska Jet Kayaks
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
30. Admire the scenic landscape along Chilkoot Trail (from USD 118.0)
Chilkoot Trail Hike is one of the most scenic trails you can ever go on. The pathway extends to a little over 53 kilometers (33 miles). It spans Dyea, located near Skagway, all the way to the shoreline of Lake Bennett. Along the way, you will see high-altitude lakes with crystal clear waters. Aside from these, the hike will also expose you to several artifacts culled from the Klondike gold rush. Be sure to take a lot of food and water with you. The whole trail will take you about five to six days to complete so come prepared with everything you need.
Skagway Shore Excursion: Chilkoot Trail Hike and Float Tour
Duration: 4 hours
Visit beautiful Skagway
Skagway should be high on your list of vacation destinations. You can have the freshest seafood, the best brewed beers, and all the beautiful natural wonders you can ask for. It is one of the best underrated tourist destinations in the world. Now is the time for you to discover it.
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