Skagway Cruise Port Guide

Skagway, the gateway to the Klondike Gold Rush, is a charming town rich in history and adventure. Its most popular excursion, the White Pass Railroad Summit, will take you a breathtaking train ride. You can also choose to explore the small town or cuddle Husky puppies at a musher’s camp.

Docking in Skagway

Skagway has four main docks: Ore Dock, Broadway Dock, and Railroad Docks Aft & Forward. All are within an easy 8-10 minute walk to downtown. The Ore and Broadway docks are closest to town, while the Railroad Docks are slightly further but still walkable.

Guests docking at the Railroad Dock may be required to take a complementary, short shuttle bus ride from their ship to Congress Way, due to an ongoing landslide threat.

Most excursions meet just past security near your cruise ship. However, if you're booked on the White Pass Railroad, you'll need to walk to the train depot, about 10 minutes from the docks.

Getting Around

Skagway is small, just 1.5 miles across, and most of it is easily walkable. Downtown Skagway, part of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historic Park, is worth exploring on foot. However, if you'd prefer, the SMART bus is a local shuttle that runs regularly from the docks and around town, with a round-trip pass costing just $5.

Rental cars and e-bikes are available if you're looking to venture a little further and explore the majestic White Pass or the ghost town of Dyea on your own. There's also a fast ferry to Haines for those who want to side trip on their own, but advanced reservations are recommended. (You can also visit Haines on a guided excursion.)

Best Skagway Excursions

Skagway is known for its scenic WP&YR railroad and outdoor adventures. Here are some favorite excursions to consider:

• White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad: This iconic train ride takes you on a breathtaking journey through mountains, gorges, and waterfalls along the historic Gold Rush trail. It’s a must-do for many visitors.


• White Pass Summit and Beyond Tour: This bus tour follows the train route and offers 100 miles round trip through the beautiful Yukon border. It's very popular with our guests.


• Glacier Flightseeing and Dogsledding: Take to the skies for a bird’s-eye view of the majestic glaciers, followed by a thrilling, family-friendly dog sledding experience on the ice.


• Musher's Camp & Sled Dog Adventure: For a taste of true Alaskan culture, visit a musher’s camp to meet sled dogs and learn about their training. You’ll also get to experience a thrilling sled ride.


• Wildlife Tours to Haines: Hop on a ferry to nearby Haines for a guided wildlife tour where you may spot bears, eagles, and other Alaskan wildlife in their natural habitat.

Exploring Skagway on Your Own

There’s a lot to explore in Skagway. There are plenty of museums, shopping with locally crafted items, and great dining options. Walking the town, taking a trolley ride, or renting an e-bike are great options for exploring on your own.

• Klondike Gold Rush Visitor Center: Learn about Skagway’s role in the Gold Rush at this interactive museum located right in town.


• Red Onion Saloon: This historic saloon, once a brothel, offers great food and drinks in a quirky, Gold Rush-themed setting. Don’t forget to check out the brothel museum upstairs!


• Lower Reid Falls and Gold Rush Cemetery: Take a short hike to this peaceful waterfall and historic cemetery, where many of Skagway’s pioneers are buried.

Local Eats

Skagway offers everything from casual food trucks to upscale seafood restaurants.

• Skagway Fish Company: Known for its fresh seafood and harbor views, this spot is busy, so reservations are recommended. Great brunch. The mermaid sandwich, Halibut, crab cakes, and clams are all great.


• The Red Onion Saloon: A fun and lively Gold Rush themed bar for pizza, nachos, and live music. The historical ambiance adds to the experience.


• Glacial Coffeehouse: A cozy café offering sandwiches, breakfast, and smoothies – perfect for a quick bite before or after your excursion.


• Skagway Brewing Company: Offers beer, a game room, and a covered patio


• Kone Kompany: a delicious ice cream shop


• Klondike Doughboy: for a fried dough treat

Locals also love Starfire Thai, Woadie’s South East Seafood, The Station for bar eats, Pepper’s food truck for burritos and bowls, and Cafe on 5th for soup and sandwiches.

Must-See Attractions

• White Pass Railroad: Whether you ride the train or not, this historic railway is an iconic symbol of Skagway’s past, and a visit to the depot is worthwhile. Our White Pass Railroad Summit Tour is our most popular tour.


• The Days of ’98 Show: A theatrical reenactment of the Gold Rush days, this show tells the story of Soapy Smith, one of Skagway’s most infamous characters.


• Skagway Museum: Discover the town’s rich history through a collection of Gold Rush artifacts and local exhibits.


• Junior Rangers: Kids can earn their Junior Ranger Badge at free National Park Museums around Skagway.

Final Thoughts

Skagway may be small, but it’s packed with history, culture, and outdoor adventure. Whether you plan to ride the famous White Pass Railroad, travel to scenic glaciers, or simply explore the charming downtown, this port offers a unique glimpse into Alaska’s Gold Rush past. Enjoy your time in this incredible town!