Jewell Gardens & Glass
Step back in time in Skagway, Alaska, a preserved Gold Rush town offering historic charm and stunning mountain scenery via the iconic railway.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Jewell Gardens & Glass
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time in Skagway, Alaska, a preserved Gold Rush town offering historic charm and stunning mountain scenery via the iconic railway.
"The White Pass & Yukon Route Railway is a must-do, offering a journey through breathtaking scenery and Gold Rush history."
Book Railway Tickets Early
The White Pass & Yukon Route Railway is popular! Book your tickets well in advance to secure your spot. :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Skagway is best explored on foot. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the historic district and trails. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
White Pass & Yukon Route Railway
Skagway
Journey through breathtaking mountain scenery on a historic narrow-gauge railway, reliving the Klondike Gold Rush era.
Gold Rush Cemetery
Skagway
Explore the final resting place of legendary prospectors like Soapy Smith, steeped in Gold Rush history.
Downtown Skagway Historic District
Skagway
Wander through beautifully preserved wooden buildings, shops, and saloons that transport you back to the Gold Rush era.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Skagway
Navigating Skagway's Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Railway Tickets Early
The White Pass & Yukon Route Railway is popular! Book your tickets well in advance to secure your spot. :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Skagway is best explored on foot. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the historic district and trails. :athletic_shoe:
Try a Klondike Doughboy
Don't miss this local treat! A Klondike Doughboy is a must-try when visiting Skagway. :doughnut:
Explore Beyond the Port
Consider walking to Reid Falls and the Gold Rush Cemetery for a self-guided historical adventure. :hiking_boot:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Railway Tickets Early
The White Pass & Yukon Route Railway is popular! Book your tickets well in advance to secure your spot. :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Skagway is best explored on foot. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the historic district and trails. :athletic_shoe:
Try a Klondike Doughboy
Don't miss this local treat! A Klondike Doughboy is a must-try when visiting Skagway. :doughnut:
Explore Beyond the Port
Consider walking to Reid Falls and the Gold Rush Cemetery for a self-guided historical adventure. :hiking_boot:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Skagway for its incredibly well-preserved Gold Rush history and the breathtaking scenery offered by the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway. The charming, walkable downtown and the opportunity to step back in time are major draws. Some find the town can feel crowded during peak cruise ship days, and excursions can be pricey.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Skagway is primarily accessible via cruise ship during the summer months. Many major cruise lines, including Princess, Royal Caribbean, and Holland America, include Skagway as a port of call on their Alaska itineraries. If arriving by cruise, the port is conveniently located within walking distance of the historic downtown area.
Yes, Skagway is a very walkable town. The historic downtown district, with its shops, restaurants, and attractions, is easily explored on foot. Many visitors find it enjoyable to stroll through the streets and soak in the Gold Rush atmosphere.
From the cruise port, you can easily walk to the historic district. Taxis and tour operators are also available for excursions. The White Pass & Yukon Route Railway station is also a short walk from the docks.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is highly recommended to book your tickets for the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway in advance, especially during the peak cruise season. These popular tours often sell out.
While many parts of Skagway, like the historic district, are free to explore, some specific attractions or tours may have entrance fees. For example, the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway requires a ticket.
Most attractions and shops in Skagway operate during the summer cruise season, typically from May to September. Hours can vary, so it's best to check the specific operating times for any tours or sites you plan to visit.
Absolutely! Many visitors enjoy exploring Skagway independently. You can walk to attractions like the Gold Rush Cemetery and Reid Falls, or arrange for local tours.
📸 📸 Photography
Iconic photo opportunities include the historic buildings of the downtown district, the steam train of the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway against a mountain backdrop, and the scenic views along the railway route. The Gold Rush Cemetery also offers unique historical photo ops.
Yes, Skagway offers numerous picturesque scenes. The combination of historic architecture, stunning natural landscapes, and the vintage railway provides ample opportunities for memorable photographs.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
A must-try local delicacy is the Klondike Doughboy, a popular treat that many visitors rave about. You'll also find various seafood options and classic American fare in the local restaurants.
Skagway offers a range of dining options, from casual cafes and bakeries to restaurants serving fresh seafood and hearty meals. Many are located within the historic downtown area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
Families with Kids
Exploring the historic downtown is also fun for kids, as they can imagine life during the Gold Rush era. The Gold Rush Cemetery can be an interesting, albeit somber, stop to learn about historical figures. For a more active adventure, consider a short hike to Reid Falls, which is relatively accessible and offers beautiful natural views.
History Buffs
The White Pass & Yukon Route Railway is an essential experience, offering a historical journey through the very same mountain passes that gold seekers traversed. The railway's engineering and historical significance are a major draw.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The White Pass & Yukon Route Railway Experience
Travelers often describe the experience as a step back in time, with vintage carriages and knowledgeable guides sharing tales of the Gold Rush era. The views are consistently praised, with many recommending sitting on the left side of the train for the most spectacular vistas on the ascent. Booking tickets in advance is crucial, as this excursion is extremely popular among cruise ship passengers.
There are various trip options available, ranging from shorter excursions to longer, more immersive journeys. Some tours include stops at historical points of interest, while others focus purely on the scenic ride. Regardless of the option chosen, the railway provides an unforgettable glimpse into Alaska's rugged past and breathtaking natural beauty.
Exploring Skagway's Gold Rush History
Key historical sites include the Gold Rush Cemetery, the final resting place of infamous figures like Soapy Smith, and the preserved buildings along Broadway Street. Walking through the historic district, you can almost hear the echoes of the past, with saloons, general stores, and assay offices transporting you back over a century.
Beyond the main attractions, consider visiting the Skagway Museum for a deeper dive into local history and artifacts. Understanding the context of the Gold Rush adds significant depth to the experience of visiting Skagway, making it more than just a scenic stop.
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