Downtown Skagway

Known as the gateway to the Klondike Gold Rush, Skagway offers a rich blend of history, charm, beauty, and adventure. Whether you're looking to explore Skagway's fascinating past or take in the stunning surroundings, Downtown Skagway has something for everyone.

Skagway Cruise Port

Skagway has four main docks: Ore Dock, Broadway Dock, and Railroad Docks Aft & Forward. All docks are within an 8-10 minute walk to downtown, with the Ore and Broadway docks being the closest. If you’re docked at the Railroad Dock, a short shuttle can take you to Congress Way.

Most excursions meet just past the ship’s security area, making it easy to transition from your cruise to your adventure. White Pass Railroad tours require a short walk to the train depot, about 10 minutes from the docks.

Getting Around

Skagway is very walkable, with most attractions easily accessible on foot. For a little extra convenience, the SMART bus provides a local shuttle service from the docks around town, with round-trip tickets available for $5. For those looking to explore further afield, e-bikes and rental cars are also available.

If you’re interested in a quick side trip, the fast ferry to Haines is a great option. It’s recommended to book tickets in advance for this ferry, as it tends to fill up during peak times.

Things to Do in Downtown Skagway

Skagway may be small, but it’s packed with historic sites, shops, and attractions:

• White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad: Skagway’s most popular excursion takes you on a historic train ride up to White Pass, with breathtaking views of mountains, valleys, and waterfalls along the way.
  


• Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park: As you stroll through downtown, you’re actually walking through this national historic park, complete with restored buildings from the Gold Rush era. Take a self-guided walking tour or join a ranger-led program.
  


• Historic Shops and Saloons: Downtown Skagway has preserved much of its old-town charm. You’ll find plenty of shops and historic saloons that look much the same as they did during the Gold Rush.
  

Where to Eat

After a day of exploring, Skagway has a few cozy spots for a bite to eat:

• Skagway Brewing Company: Known for its local craft beers and hearty pub fare, this brewery offers a welcoming atmosphere. Try the halibut and chips—a local favorite!
  


• Red Onion Saloon: Originally a Gold Rush-era brothel, the Red Onion Saloon is now a fun, quirky place to grab pizza and nachos. It also has a small brothel museum upstairs for those interested in the more colorful side of Skagway’s history.
  


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


• Klondike Doughboy: You can literally follow your nose downtown to find this fried treat.

Exploring Downtown Skagway on Your Own

For those who prefer a more flexible experience, Skagway’s downtown is perfect for self-guided exploration:

• Lower Reid Falls and Gold Rush Cemetery: A short walk from town, this scenic area includes a peaceful waterfall and a historic cemetery where many Gold Rush pioneers are buried.
  


• Shopping for Local Crafts: Skagway’s shops offer a variety of locally made arts and crafts, making it a great place to find unique souvenirs.
  


• Historic Walking Tour: With its well-preserved Gold Rush architecture, downtown Skagway feels like a step back in time. Pick up a map at the visitor center to guide you through key sites and landmarks.
  

Interesting Facts

Modern-day Skagway is more than just a small Alaskan community—it’s a town rich with history, entertainment, and exciting opportunities for adventure. With its beautiful views and unique local culture, Skagway has been featured in major media and plenty of urban legends.

• Skagway is one of only three communities in Southeast Alaska that is connected to the road system.
  


• In an episode of Homeland Security, USA, Skagway’s border crossing was referred to as the “least-used” crossing in the country.
  


• The Skagway area was featured in Three Stooges, the 1946 film Road to Utopia starring Bing Crosby, in a Jack London short story, and in the computer game The Yukon Trail.
  


• Skagway is derived from sha-ka-ԍéi—literally translated to “beautiful woman”, and it refers to a Tlingit idiom that translates to “rough seas caused by strong north winds”.
  


• From 1897-1898, “Soapy” Smith ran Skagway as a con man with his private militia called the “Skaguay Military Company”, until he was killed at the famous Shootout on Juneau Wharf in 1898.
  


• Legend has it that the historic Golden North Hotel in Skagway is haunted by “Scary Mary”, a visitor to the hotel at the height of the Gold Rush who never checked out of her room.
  

Final Thoughts

Downtown Skagway is a delightful mix of history, adventure, and scenic beauty. Whether you’re here to ride the iconic White Pass Railroad, enjoy a meal at a historic saloon, or explore at your own pace, this town is a memorable stop on any Alaskan itinerary. Enjoy your time in Skagway!