Skagway, Alaska, has something of a 19th Century feel, amid some really spectacular Alaskan nature.
The town sits right at the northern tip of the Inside Passage, and is a favourite of cruise lines. It manages to balance its Gold Rush history with a friendly, small-town charm.
On my Royal Caribbean cruise, we had just a few hours in port, but the proximity of the town to the dock meant I got to enjoy every second.
These are my essential tips for exploring Skagway for cruisers.
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1. Skagway Docks & Town
There are three docks in Skagway: Broadway Dock, Railroad Dock and Ore Dock. My ship, the Brilliance of the Seas, docked at RRF (Railroad Dock Forward). Check with your cruise line or the National Park Service for the latest ship schedule.
The dock area is so near downtown, literally just a short walk. The Klondike Gold Rush historic district, where 19th Century buildings have been carefully preserved, is worth the walk even if you don’t have shore excursions planned. Look for the frontier-style facades along Broadway and State Streets.
2. Free Wi-Fi at the Skagway Public Library
During my visit with Royal Caribbean’s Brilliance of the Seas, I chose not to take a shore excursion, given how short our stop in Skagway was to be. As I did so much research, I’ve still got some recommendations later in this article.
Instead, I made my way to the Skagway Public Library to use their free Wi-Fi, even if it was less than 1 Mbps! It was just enough to check emails and publish a cruising blog! You’ll often find fellow passengers and crew members here, as onboard Wi-Fi can be pricey — Royal Caribbean charges upwards of $15.99 per day for what I think is limited and slow access. Bring on faster options in the future!
3. Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park
When you’re in downtown, you’re already enjoying one of the best free activities in Skagway: the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. This park preserves many of the town’s original buildings and is a glimpse into the past when people came here in search of a golden fortune.
If you prefer to stay on foot, take a self-guided walking tour. The National Park Service Visitor Center, located near the port, provides maps and information to help you find your way. Highlights include the Red Onion Saloon, a former brothel turned restaurant, and the Arctic Brotherhood Hall, with its unique driftwood facade (which features briefly in my Skagway video).
4. White Pass & Yukon Route Railway
For a quintessential Skagway experience, consider taking the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway. This is one of the top shore excursions — but you’re likely to get a better deal by booking this Viator 3-hour tour versus your cruise ship excursion.
If you want a shore excursion in Skagway, this is probably the right one. My dining room neighbours from Alberta spoke about the views, because the train ascends to nearly 3,000 feet at White Pass Summit. The journey follows the same route taken by prospectors over a century ago.
5. Hiking the Chilkoot Trail
For those who have more time and energy, the Chilkoot Trail is a way to enjoy a hike through natural beauty with a chunk of Alaskan history. This trail was a vital route for Gold Rush prospectors and is now a popular hiking destination. While the full hike takes several days, you can explore a portion of the trail on a guided excursion or a shorter, self-guided hike.
6. Scenic Views and Wildlife
Skagway’s surroundings are nothing short of spectacular, with towering mountains and pristine wilderness all around. Consider taking a walk to the Skagway Scenic Overlook for panoramic views of the town and harbour.
If you’re visiting in the summer, look out for wildlife like bald eagles and bears, especially near the water. I happened upon a small crowd on my way back to the ship, who had spotted a humpback whale in the harbour!
7. Shopping in Historic Skagway
Skagway’s shops are a mix of jewellery stores, art galleries, and local craft shops, all housed in those Gold Rush-era buildings. Look for items marked with the “Made in Skagway” seal to support local artisans.
8. Dining in Skagway
Despite its small size, Skagway has some surprisingly diverse eating options. For fresh Alaskan seafood, check out Skagway Fish Co., or try an Elephant Ear (a sweet cinnamon-flavoured pastry) at Klondike Doughboy on 3rd Avenue.
9. Weather & What to Wear
Skagway is known for having relatively mild and sunny weather, especially compared to other Inside Passage ports. The sky was completely blue for my May visit. It can get windy and cold, so it’s best to dress in layers. A waterproof jacket is a good idea, just in case. Ya never know! Check out my complete packing list if you need a tick list.
10. Free Things to Do in Skagway
I don’t think cruisers have to do a shore excursion in every port. It all adds up, and for Skagway, I enjoyed the free options! Besides the National Historical Park and the scenic hiking options, simply wandering through town is a lot of fun.
Final Thoughts
Skagway may be small, but it’s packed with history, charm, and natural beauty. Even in just a few hours you can get a taste of how different this small place is compared to other Alaskan ports like Juneau or Sitka.
Skagway Essential Links
Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park: Learn more about the park’s programs and history.
Skagway Visitor Center (NPS): For maps, information, and guided tours.
White Pass & Yukon Route Railway: scenic train journey from Skagway to the summit.
Chilkoot Trail: famous hiking route.
Made in Skagway: details on supporting local artisans
Skagway Fish Co.: Discover Skagway’s freshest seafood.
Skagway Public Library: Free Wi-Fi and a quiet place to relax.
Red Onion Saloon: former brothel building
Arctic Brotherhood Building: unique driftwood building
This Skagway article is one of my Alaskan Port Guides. Click on Sitka, Juneau or Haines if you missed those editions!