Skagway, Alaska
Skagway, Alaska, is a city frozen in time, a living museum of the Klondike Gold Rush era. Nestled at the northernmost point of the Inside Passage, Skagway is a gateway to Canada's Yukon Territory and a paradise for history buffs and nature lovers alike. The town's wooden boardwalks, false-front buildings, and historic saloons make it feel like you've stepped back into the 1890s. For a cruiser, Skagway is an absolute must-see, with a compact and walkable downtown that offers a perfect blend of history and adventure.
⛵ Port Introduction
Skagway has three main docks: the Railroad Dock, Broadway Dock, and Ore Dock. Your ship will dock directly at one of these piers, so no tender is required. The most convenient docks are the Broadway and Ore Docks, which are a short 5-10 minute walk from the historic downtown. The Railroad Dock is a bit further away, and you may need to take a shuttle bus to get to the city center, but the ride is short and complimentary. The port can accommodate up to four large ships at once.
⚓ Terminal Information
The docks are an open-air setup with a lively atmosphere. While there is no large, permanent terminal building at the main docks, you'll find a variety of small shops, kiosks, and vendors right on the waterfront.
🚻 Terminal Facilities
At the main docks, you'll find a variety of small shops selling souvenirs and local crafts, as well as cafes and a tourist information point. The Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway is located right across from the main docks and is a popular meeting point for many tours. The area also has restrooms and other basic facilities. Free Wi-Fi is available in some cafes and restaurants in town, but it may be slow on a busy day.
🗣️ Language
The local language is English. You will have no problem navigating, communicating, or exploring the area.
💰 Money
The currency is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted everywhere, and contactless payments are very common. It's a good idea to have some cash on hand for small purchases from street vendors or for the public shuttle bus. ATMs are easy to find at the port and throughout the city.
🚗 Transportation
Skagway's downtown is very walkable, and its main attractions are clustered in the city center.
· Walking: The best way to explore downtown is on foot. The historic buildings, shops, and restaurants are all within easy walking distance of the main cruise docks.
· Shuttle Bus: If your ship docks at the Railroad Dock, a free shuttle bus will take you to the downtown area. A local shuttle service, the SMART bus, also runs regularly from the docks and around town for a small fee.
· Taxis: Taxis are available, but they are very limited. It is a good idea to pre-book a taxi or a tour to get to the main attractions outside the downtown area.
· Public Bus: Skagway has a public bus system, the SMART bus, which is a very affordable way to get around the city. The bus runs on a circuit around town, and you can get an all-day pass for a small fee.
· Tours: A great way to see the region is to take a pre-arranged tour. The most popular tour is the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway, a historic railway that takes you on a stunning ride through the mountains.
♿ Accessibility
Skagway has an accessibility rating of 4 out of 10. The cruise docks and the downtown area are generally flat and easy to navigate, but the city's historic boardwalks and streets can be uneven. The public bus system is also wheelchair accessible. However, many of the main attractions outside the city are in rugged terrain that can be challenging to navigate.
🚶♀️ The best way to get to town from cruise port
If you are docked at the Broadway or Ore Docks, the best way to get to town is to simply walk. You are already in the heart of the city. If you are at the Railroad Dock, the best way to get to town is to take the free shuttle bus.
🚽 Toilet
Public restrooms are generally available and clean in Skagway, especially at major tourist attractions, shopping centers, and museums. They are free to use.
💊 Drugstore
· Skagway Drug Store: The town has a local pharmacy, but it is not a major chain. It is a good idea to bring any medication you may need with you.
· Clinic Pharmacy: The town's clinic also has a pharmacy.
✨ Authentic Experience
1. Walk the Historic Downtown and Visit the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park: For a deep dive into the city's history, walk the historic downtown area, which is part of the National Historical Park. You can visit the visitor center for a free walking tour led by a park ranger, which is a great way to learn about the city's history.
2. Dine on Local Alaskan Seafood: Skagway is a foodie's paradise, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced Alaskan seafood. Seek out a local restaurant like the Skagway Fish Company for a delicious king crab bucket or fresh fish and chips.
3. Take a Ride on the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway: For a truly unique and unforgettable experience, take a ride on the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway. This historic railway, built in 1898, takes you on a stunning journey through the mountains, with a breathtaking view of glaciers, waterfalls, and the Klondike Trail of '98.
