THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Skagway - 2023 (with Photos) - Tripadvisor Its helpful to spend some time in town to learn its history before visiting the cemetery. The trailhead is a nice walk from the cruise port, through part of downtown, then State street to the Skagway footbridge. The tour then continues with a short bus ride and a quarter-mile hike to the glacial lake. The Parlor Museum is located in an unassuming building a short distance from the Park Visitor Center. Appreciated the commentary on the town and cemetery. AllTrails has the out and back from the footbridge to Yakutania Point at close to 1 mile. While a visit to a cemetery might seem like one of the strangest tours to take, its all about the history it holds. For a pleasant dining experience, pair your food with a homebrew or a glass of fine wine. Buses no longer ran to the location so we walked over 2 miles to get there. All that you need to bring is your sense of adventure. Pro Tip: When the helicopter lands, you are not permitted to stay inside, so be sure youre wearing plenty of warm clothes appropriate for the weather. 10 Best Things to Do in Skagway | Alaska Shore Excursions If you are looking for some adrenaline while in Skagway, book an ocean rafting adventure. Cruise Tips Top Things to Do in the Port of Skagway, Alaska on a Cruise Leave a Comment / Destinations & Ports of Call, North America / By Tabetha Heath Share this - There are many amazing things that you can experience in the port of Skagway, Alaska. Head over to the museum; it's worth your time. Staff were friendly, the atmosphere was convivial and the beer i was breathing so deep to smell the nature. "More than half of the passengers that come through Skagway ride the train," said Mayor Andrew Cremata. Taking a horse trek is an ideal way to experience the Chilkoot and White Pass trails. Davidson Glacier Courtesy of demerzel21 - Fotolia.com Originally discovered in 1867, Davidson Glacier is a must-visit natural attraction while in Skagway, Alaska. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. The activities vary from a sedate train ride to adventure hiking. Youll pass over waterfalls and beautiful Alaskan scenery as you fly through the canopy. The famous author Jack London has his final resting place in the cemetery. Port of Call: Discover top things to do in Skagway, Alaska There are no restrooms available at the glacier. Visitors to Pullen Creek Shoreline Park can watch the salmon swimming upstream from the creek, leaping over rocks and rapids in their journey to their spawning grounds. My husband and I are in our 50s but athletic and fit so the 3100 elevation was not an issue for us. This wasted a good portion of our day. As you enjoy this hike, youll see lush and striking forests and a gorgeous lake with photogenic streams. Restored by the NPS in 1995, this cabin gives a glimpse of the city before the gold rush boom. We visited Skagway when it was a port stop on an Alaskan Inside Passage cruise. Average temperatures during the summer months hover between 57 degrees and 64 Fahrenheit. Then youll have a better appreciation for what you are viewing. and buy spectacular wildlife photos (we did!). While Skagway may be small, it has several museums. Enjoy a round of golf at Valley of the Eagles Golf Links, one of the worlds most scenic golf courses, in nearby Haines. Historic Sites Points of Interest & Landmarks. We could clearly see our ship across the water from the trail. Great cocktails! Top Things to Do in Skagway, Alaska on a Cruise We independently evaluate all recommended services and products. Take a 6-hour cruise that will take you to the foot of this towering glacier. We were in town as part of a Holland America Cruise line visit. Skagway, Alaska is the northernmost point in Alaska's Inside Passage, at the far end of Lynn Canal. This narrow-gauge railroad is an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark. Showcasing early oddities in Alaska, this museum is also dedicated to the infamous Jefferson Randolph Soapy Smith. Any gold found is placed in a small vial to take home as a souvenir. Located on 9th & Alaska, it is 3 blocks away from Broadway on the airport. The White Deluxe Tour from Skagwayfollows the Klondike Highway. 15 Free Things to do in Skagway Alaska: Excursions and Alternatives During thetrain tour from Skagway to the Yukon, step outside your railcar onto the platforms at the ends of the carriages. Walking short distances is required and you must be able to raise your knee 8 inches. For a bucket list excursion, dog sledding provides a thrill of a lifetime. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Skagway - UPDATED 2023 - Must See 28 Best Things To Do In Skagway, Alaska - Updated 2023 Well worth a visit! If the union doesn't reach an agreement with White Pass, a strike could cause major disruptions to one of Southeast Alaska 's most popular tourist attractions. I would do this trail again, and would love to visit the other part of this hike. Staff were super friendly and attentive! Will you be one of them? It includes stops at local landmarks and viewpoints along the Klondike Highway route and your guide will be keeping an eye out for wildlife. While not quite the same exhilarating experience, you still get to cuddle with some adorable huskies and see the newest puppies. 449. Its very worth the short walk off the main street to Skagway Distillery. Not only is it filled with gorgeous views, but this tour also includes a Bennett Station layover. Smith and Reid were in a shootout in 1898 and Soapy Smith both were killed. If youre not afraid of heights, take to the treetops on a wilderness zip-lining adventure. There are five steep steps to get into the train with limited wheelchair accessible seating available. On your kayaking adventure, seals, bald eagles, or porpoises could accompany you along the way. Head inside to relive its glory days enjoying a pint the same way that gold seekers did more than a century ago. Avis, Drive About Car Rental, and Klondike Electric Cars offer car rentals by the day. you ride the waves. 20 Fantastic Things to do in Skagway Alaska | Alex on the Map The museum is quite interesting once we are inside. THE 10 BEST Free Things to Do in Skagway (Updated 2023) If you want something unique to take home do visit The Loom which offers a range of woven products (bedspreads are Mohamed and Roger were fun, helpful and respectful. Go Ziplining 3. Skagway's history and spectacular natural setting create unparalleled sightseeing and recreation opportunities. The two famous people are Jefferson "Soapy" Smith, a well known con man of the era and lawman Frank Reid. Other stops include the Gold Rush Cemetary, Reid Falls Brackets Toll Road, Moor Bridge Overlook and the Welcome to Alaska sign. Take a Dog Sled Ride 4. Our goal, to share the worlds unique, hidden and once in a lifetime locations with you to create unforgettable memories. The tour takes you out and back giving you ample opportunity to see all of the sights along the way. So, enjoy a rocking trip here by heeding our recommended picks for the best things to do in Skagway, AK. This hike was the highlight of our cruise to Alaska. Join 10,000 others who get our weekly emails! There, youll experience the Davidson Glacier up close from your 30-foot canoes. Over a hundred years later, the towns facade is frozen in time, still the picture-perfect image of a gold mining town. #1 Yukon Territory 1,507 The Yukon is the smallest, westernmost, and perhaps wildest of Canada's northern territories. Once suited in waterproof clothing, youll enjoy an exhilarating high-speed ride to Lynn Canal, renowned for having the deepest and longest fjord in North America. This tour is not wheelchair or limited mobility accessible. The train cars are heated and are equipped with restrooms. Gold had been discovered in the Canadian Yukon, but the trek over the mountains was challenging. 3. The guide filled our minds with very graphic stories. The hike is fairly steep and you are going from sea level to about 3,000 feet in elevation. Not far from the cruise port, you can walk along a stream to see salmon swimming upstream to spawn in their natural habitat at Pullen Creek Stream Walk. Alaska has been struggling with staffing problems this year. Consider these five fabulous glaciers to visit in Alaska. The longest running show in the north enthralls audiences with its unending comedy, rage-time songs and can-can choreography. One of the Skagway Fish Companys most popular dishes is their fish and chips, which features crispy, golden-brown batter, and tender, flaky fish. Some friends did this excursion and enjoyed it immensely. For me, it was very Popped in for a beer or two at the end of a busy day. In May, it was a little brisk so remember to wear layers. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); We were recently in Alaska and had booked glass blowing excursion. Once done, hike the most famous gold rush route in the area, the Chilkoot Trail. If you are looking for a relaxing way to visit Skagway, we saw Streetcars going around town. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. Top Attractions in Skagway. The Taiya River (also known as the Dyea River) near Skagway, Alaska, flows for 17 miles. While at the cemetery, a short walk further provides views of Reid Falls, a small picturesque waterfall that is well worth a visit. While you may not need warm Alaska clothing here, its best to pack a variety ofoutfits for port daysand glacier viewing. 351. Hikers should be prepared for changing weather conditions and carry appropriate gear and supplies, as there are no services or facilities along the trail. 20 Amazing Things To Do In Skagway, Alaska - Forever Karen The show is performed in the historic Eagles Hall in Skagway, which was built in 1899 and has been home to the show since its inception. It was originally built in 1898 during the Klondike Gold Rush and served as a brothel for the miners who flocked to the area in search of gold. Glacier Point Wilderness Safari. The four-hour adventure is a half thrill and half eco tour taking in the beauty of the Alaskan wilderness. For over 12 years, this brewery has been delighting visitors with its fresh-brewed ales and tasty food. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor. You can get a guided tour of the exquisite grounds, or stroll these gardens on your own. If the White Pass and Yukon train ride was not long enough, consider traveling the 67.5 miles between Skagway, and Carcross, Yukon Territory (Canada) by train. Great place for adults to rest and kids to. Located on the University of Alaska Fairbanks campus, the Museum of the North is a world-class museum stuffed with fascinating exhibits covering Alaska's history, art, and culture. In the fjord, photo opportunities are endless. Poke around on your own, or select from a variety of commercial tours. While the bridge is not located directly in Skagway, it is Many visitors to Skagway choose to visit the Yukon Suspension Bridge as part of a day trip or excursion, as it is relatively close by and can be easily accessed by car or tour bus. The first floor of the building originally housed a saloon and a gambling hall, but these were later converted into retail spaces and offices. They are absolutely beautiful. This super-organized excursion benefits from the very knowledgeable staff. There are many day cruises lasting around 5 to 6 hours that take you right to the foot of the glacier and back; these tours may include boat rides, raft rides, or canoeing. The full hike is a challenging route that spans approximately 33 miles (53 km) between Skagway, Alaska, and Bennett, British Columbia. Its one of the top-rated tours in Ketchikan. The Yukon Dog Sledding and Sightseeing Tourexcursion is an excellent tour and allows you to enjoy dog sledding without paying for the expensive helicopterdog sledding in Alaskas capital, Juneau. Great souvenir to remember Alaska by! Stroll down the streets of this charming town 2. If youre sailing to Alaska on either the Celebrity Eclipse or Celebrity Solstice, passengers can blow their own glass on board the ship withCelebritys hot glass class. We visited around 11am. By helenlimyl. Top Things to Do in the Port of Skagway, Alaska on a Cruise There were a few hikers in sneakers - waterproof shoes are a must if you are hiking in May/early June before the summer thaw. 11. Skagway's railroad workers are voting on strike - Alaska Forum Since the lake lies within British Columbia, Canada, youll need your passport to cross the Canadian border. You might spot bats, bears and different bird species on your visit to this park. Really worth 5 minutes of your time to get a realistic What an interesting place, filled with locally made art, ceramics, jewelry and such. He wrote The Call of the Wild and White Fan and spend time in Skagway during the gold rush. Despite the town's small size and population of just 1,240 people, Skagway boasts some of the most adventurous activities available on an Alaska cruise. Snap a selfie with the citys most outlanding building in the background. This historic narrow-gauge railroad runs from Skagway, Alaska, to Whitehorse, Yukon Territory, in Canada. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. Furthermore, it includes a motorcoach tour along Klondike Highway. Dog sledding is a thrilling excursion for the adventurous 50+ traveler. Skagway Alaska - Everything you need to know before you visit The Days of 98 Show is considered one of the longest-running and most popular live shows in Alaska. The helicopter tour usually lasts around two hours, so plan for half a day. The cemetery is located on the outskirts of town at the end of a gravel road past the rail yard. TheChilkoot trail and float tourcombined a hike with a river raft floating down the Taiya River. In its heyday, Skagway was the boomtown gateway to the Trail of '98 and the Klondike gold fields. Located at 245 Broadway, its hard not to miss the iconic building made of sticks. Be spontaneous, brave the cold, and embrace a late night adventure to see the stunning natural phenomena Alaska is known for. See all Skagway Shore Excursion: Yukon Discovery Tour 77 Historical Tours from 115.84 per adult Get More Details Here. 4. It was the ultimate three tours in one. Built in the late 1887, this rustic cabin is Skagways oldest historic building. Top Things to Do in Skagway, Alaska on a Cruise Alaska by Heidi Bucolo Last updated on: March 9, 2019 Updated: See our picks for the best tours and excursions in this guide to Top Things to Do in Skagway, Alaska on a Cruise (2021). Take the Bennett Scenic Journey, and be swept away by stellar sights from the comfort of a vintage train car. Since 1923, this theater has been bedazzling and entertaining audiences with tales of the states most infamous outlaw. See Bears at the Wildlife & Bear Search 5. Relish the quick nature hike through the gorgeous wooded terrain before you get to the rope course. Best Things to Do in Alaska 20 Best Things to Do in Skagway, Alaska Take an Aerial Tour. with a wonderful scenic view at the end called Yakutania Point. Helmets, locks, and maps are included. Dive deep into history at the Skagway Museum and Archives With this nugget of information, youll learn more about Jefferson Soapy Smith and the other Gold Rush personalities. If you love kayaking, then take advantage of the beautiful Alaska scenery and explore the waters of Lynn Canal. If you choose to hike, carry a bear bell,as most bears will walk the other way if they hear you approaching. A young baby boomer, Robin and her husband have traveled throughout North America, many of the Caribbean Islands, and Europe. Found something nice to remember a special trip with. The train picks up passengers right at the cruise ship terminal where you will hop aboard this historic narrow gauge railroad to retrace the route that so many gold prospectors have taken before you. The cemetery contains more than 100 graves, many of which are marked with simple wooden crosses or headstones that reflect the harsh and often tragic conditions of life in the gold rush era. Sled Dog Mushers Camp Combines a Unimog ride with dog mushing through the Tongass Forest. 1. It also stops at Skagway attractions like the Gold Rush Cemetery, and Lower Reid Falls. Relax on a 60-minute boat ride through North Americas deepest fjord to the glacier and see if you can spot local wildlife like whales, bald eagles, sea lions, and mountain goats. Best Pizza in Fairbanks, AK: 11 Top Pizzerias! I certainly recommend this walk as it is very flat and can be leisurely. We want to inspire you to explore new destinations, discover new experiences and savor the journey. 10. Popular things to do Ports of Call Tours Half-day Tours Bus Tours Top Picks Private & Custom Tours Water Tours Likely to Sell Out Walking & Biking Tours Sporting Events Special Offers Ways to tour Skagway Book these experiences for a close-up look at Skagway. Architectural Oddities 8. This is a marvelous Canadian and Alaskan adventure. Skagway is a popular port for Alaska cruise ships, and it's easy to see why: the town is brimming with gold rush history, unique culture, and amazing opportunities for enjoying the state's renowned natural beauty. Want to know more about the Arctic Brotherhood? Subaru Park KidZania Kuala Lumpur Reward Mine Seoul Forest Spanish River Park Mercado do Bolho Sunny Beach Luna Park San Felice Circeo Praia Grande Dino Park Bled - Radovljica Abu Dhabi Half Day City Tour Ferrari Lamborghini Maserati Factories and Museums - Tour from Bologna Winter Gruyres, chocolate and cheese tour from Lausanne Krabi 7 Islan. With its informative museum, mouth-watering food and delightful beers, you are to have a blast indoors at this saloon. The Klondike Gold Rush comes to life as you explore the streets of Skagway. Good gin and GREAT cocktails. The raft ride concludes with a snack and a drink before the journey back to town. The tours can last upwards of five hours, making this experience one of the top things to do in Skagway. With numerous buildings throughout the town, the National Park has representations of most aspects of Skagway history. Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. In fact, its an intriguing piece of Skagway history, and is the final resting place for several notable Gold Rush characters. Each helicopter carries a maximum of six people. Klondike Electric Bicycles location is easy to find on State Street and 5th Ave. in downtown Skagway. The RadRover StepThru and RadRunner Plus are suitable for those up to 6 2, and the latter has a passenger seat. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. Let the kiddos run wild, and experience its hands-on exhibits and educational diversions. You can find the various tours on the National Park Services website. Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO. From my experience, Skagway and Alaska rarely disappoint. They are the best waterfall that we could get close enough to take a picture of in all of Alaska. This place really is a hidden gem. The owner explained the process of making the syrups used in the cocktails, which included rhubarb and fireweed. We recommend their evening shows, though, as it includes a few mock-gambling games. Enjoy a par 36, 9-hole course surrounded by wildlife and the stunning Alaska landscape. There are lots of beautiful art galleries, places to buy furs, jewelry stores, They have a great selection of "Alaska specific" fabric and. The Laughton Glacier Hike combines a hiking adventure with a White Pass and Yukon Railroad ride. Must See In Alaska: Ten Alaska Experiences Not To Miss 92 Cool and Unusual Things to Do in Alaska - Atlas Obscura Travel through the rainforests and fjords as youre guided through this stunning wilderness adventure. 12 Incredible Things To Do In Beautiful Skagway, Alaska Situated 1.5 miles away from Downtown Skagway, this cemetery is ideal for history buffs. As the train climbs up 2,865 feet to the summit of the White Pass, you will see the original Klondike Trail of 1898, Bridal Veil Falls, Dead Horse Gulch, and Inspiration Point. I was pleasantly surprised by the variety of activities and after visiting, I totally understand why so many people love it. Details here. The railway built because of the Gold Rush, is one of the most scenic rail routes in North America. Web Visit website. The flight routes and landing zones vary based on weather to make sure you see the best sites. Stroll To Gold Rush Cemetery And Reid Falls While a visit to a cemetery might seem like one of the strangest tours to take, it's all about the history it holds. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. There is nothing better than seeing Alaska from above and one of the best things to do in Alaska is to get up in the air for a birds eye view of glaciers. I cannot imagine what it is like in the winter. This guided audio tour is a great way to experience at your own pace. Bikes are rented by the hour, so ride to Gold Rush Cemetery, the Rocky Road Lookout, or travel along the Dyea Road, depending on your time. The train picks up passengers right at the cruise ship terminal where you will hop aboard this historic narrow gauge railroad to retrace the route that so many gold prospectors have taken before you. Be prepared to get wet as youll borrow goggles, gloves, and a waterproof suit to tour the Lynn Canal on a high-speed boat as. Managed by the National Park Service, this visitors center is packed with interactive activities for the young ones. While the guide had some environmentally friendly bug repellent, it did not work. Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling. With its thrilling ziplines and treetop obstacles, this tour will also reward you with stunning mountain views. Sample their fried calamari, Korean-style beef or the Golden Seafood Platter with scallops, fried Alaskan cod and shrimp. Statues 8. Looking to book your next trip? The Skagway Bennett Scenic Railroad Journey takes the same route used in 1898 by Klondike stampeders. Along the way, youll catch sight of several flora and fauna. It has been designated a National Historic Landmark and is considered one of the most significant examples of Alaskan frontier architecture in the state. The most interesting story goes to Frank Reid and Jefferson Soapy Smith. You may even see the odd humpback whale. A gateway town during the Yukon gold rush, Skagway enjoyed hundreds of gold-seekers who visited on their journey north. If you click on an affiliate link we provide, we may receive compensation. The Yukon Suspension Bridge is another popular attraction. And, for more cheap fun, hike your way to the Lower Reid Falls. This all-day tour has plenty of photo opportunities. During a walking tour of Skagway, youll learn the history of the area, see recreated exhibits, and learn about the prospectors who risked it all to get rich. 350 BroadwaySkagway, AK 99840(907) 983-9200. The Skagway Glacier Helicopter Tour takes you to Alaskas remotest glaciers as you leave civilization behind and experience untouched beauty. Glacier Point Wilderness Safari. Explore Alaska. Our host told us to order as much king crab as possible because one, it is the best in Alaska, and two, how often do we get to have a big company pick up the tab? Once you reach the magnificent glaciers, you will have time to explore Mother Natures greatest marvels, learn about glacier creation from experienced guides, wander around, snap photos galore, and walk on the river of ice. "Skagway's history is linked with the railroad, so losing operations . Take a guided tour of Skagway on a vintage streetcar and learn about the towns history and architecture. Phone +1 907-474-7505. The glacier is stunning, and its incredibly cool to paddle in iceberg-filled water. This website uses cookies to improve your experience. Just returned from an Alaska cruise what a great way to see this amazing state. The park features a boardwalk that runs along the creek, providing easy access for visitors to observe the fish up close.