Location & Transportation
Your ship will dock at one of Skagway’s several docks – whether it’s the Broadway Dock at the end of Broadway, the Railroad Dock at the southern tip of town, the Ore Dock at the end of Main Street, or even the Ferry Dock for smaller ships. From any of these, you’re just a short walk away from the town’s charming shopping areas, historic sites, and local dining spots.
For getting around town, I recommend the SMART Shuttle. It’s wheelchair accessible and makes it easy to explore further afield.
Nearby Lodging
If you’re planning to stay overnight, Skagway offers a few cozy inns and bed & breakfasts where you can enjoy a warm welcome after a day of exploring.
Nearest Airport
The Skagway Airport is a small regional facility serving charter and local flights. It’s just a short drive from the port, but be sure to check flight schedules ahead of time as services can be limited.
Sightseeing
Skagway is a walkable town steeped in the legacy of the Klondike Gold Rush. I love wandering along historic Broadway to admire the preserved architecture and stop by landmarks like the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. As you stroll through the back streets, you’ll feel the echoes of a bygone era, and you might even catch a glimpse of the White Pass and Chilkoot Trails that once carried hopeful prospectors into Alaska’s wilderness.
Tours & Excursions
There’s no shortage of adventures in and around Skagway:
- Skagway Street Car Tour: Enjoy a leisurely 90-minute tour that departs from the pier daily (May through September). It’s a perfect way to learn about the town’s Gold Rush history.
- SMART Bus Service: For just $5 per person for an all-day pass (or $3 each way), hop on the SMART bus that runs a Dock-to-Downtown loop every 15-20 minutes. It stops at popular sites such as the Gold Rush Cemetery and Jewell Gardens.
- Helicopter Tours: For a bird’s-eye view of Skagway’s rugged beauty, several helicopter tours are available when weather permits.
- Haines-Skagway Fast Ferry: Take a scenic 45-minute ride between Skagway and Haines – a great option if you want to explore more of the region.
- Dredge Town: Just a 15-minute drive from downtown, this popular attraction lets you step back into the Gold Rush era with immersive exhibits and breathtaking mountain views.
It‘s a good idea to compare shore excursion costs between what your cruise line offers and options like Viator and GetYourGuide. They often provide lower prices and include customer reviews and ratings to help you choose the best option. They may also offer more more flexible cancellation or rescheduling policies than those available through your cruise line. However, while booking independently might give you more variety and potentially better rates, be mindful of your schedule - cruise line excursions are typically coordinated to match your ship‘s schedule with guaranteed pick-up and drop-off times.
There is also a great resource for finding local guides at Tours by Locals. Tours by Locals connects you with local guides who can help you plan a private personal tour, guide you, and get you back to your ship on time. You can also check out Rome2Rio for local transportation options. It is a great resource for finding how to get from one place to another, including public transportation, taxis, ferries, and more.
Shopping
Skagway’s main street – especially along State Street, just a block from Main – is dotted with charming shops selling everything from local crafts and jewelry to classic souvenirs. I love browsing these quaint stores for a unique keepsake that captures a bit of Alaskan history.
Dining
There’s a hearty local flavor in Skagway’s dining scene. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite at a historic saloon or settling into a cozy bistro, expect fresh seafood, reindeer sausage, and other Alaskan specialties that are as authentic as they are delicious. Enjoy a meal with views of the rugged mountains or over a cup of local coffee in a welcoming setting.
Culture & Local Events
- Skagway is steeped in Gold Rush history, so every corner tells a story. The town’s relaxed, small-town vibe makes it easy to strike up a conversation with the locals and learn firsthand about its past.
- The official currency is the US dollar (USD) and major credit cards are widely accepted. Just keep in mind that Skagway charges a 5% sales tax during the summer season (April through September, when you’re most likely to visit), dropping to 3% in the winter months.
- Tipping is customary in the United States: 15-20% at full-service restaurants is standard, while smaller tips are appropriate for taxis, tour guides, and other services.
- Most shops and restaurants in Skagway operate on regular business hours – typically from around 10 a.m. until early evening. Hours may vary on holidays, so it’s a good idea to check ahead if you’re visiting during a festive period.
- On the events side, if you visit during the summer cruise season, you might catch Skagway’s annual Gold Rush Days festival. It’s a vibrant celebration with parades, live music, historical reenactments, and plenty of local charm.
- Communication is easy everywhere in Skagway since English is the local language.
- Safety is important; while Skagway is generally a safe town, always be mindful when exploring rugged outdoor areas. For emergencies, dial 911.