Skagway, AK

Skagway has a short summer tourist season, with the best months to visit being:

• May–September (Summer & Early Fall): Best for cruise stops, hiking, and Gold Rush history tours.
• October–April (Winter & Early Spring): Ideal for Northern Lights viewing and winter solitude.

• White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad – A scenic train ride offering stunning mountain and glacier views.
• Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park – A preserved area showcasing Skagway’s Gold Rush past.
• Broadway Street & Historic Downtown – A well-preserved Gold Rush-era district with wooden boardwalks and historic saloons.
• Chilkoot Trail – A historic 33-mile hiking trail used by prospectors during the Klondike Gold Rush.
• Red Onion Saloon – A famous 1898 Gold Rush brothel-turned-restaurant and museum.
• Skagway Museum & Archives – Learn about Skagway’s role in the Gold Rush and early Alaskan history.
• Yakutania Point & Smuggler’s Cove – A scenic hiking trail with panoramic coastal views.
• Davidson Glacier – A breathtaking ice field accessible via boat and kayak tours.
• Liarsville Gold Rush Trail Camp – A fun re-creation of a Gold Rush prospector camp with gold panning experiences.
• Jewell Gardens – A peaceful garden filled with native plants, glass-blowing demonstrations, and organic dining.

• Wild Alaskan Salmon – Enjoy fresh, locally caught salmon grilled, smoked, or served in chowder.
• Halibut Fish & Chips – A crispy, golden-fried Alaskan favorite.
• Reindeer Sausage – A savory, slightly sweet specialty of the Alaskan frontier.
• Sourdough Bread – A Gold Rush-era staple, still popular in Alaska today.
• Birch Syrup Caramel Corn – A sweet treat made with locally harvested birch syrup.
• Bison Burgers – A lean, flavorful alternative to beef, often served with Alaskan-style toppings.
• Fireweed Honey – A naturally sweet honey made from fireweed flowers, a true Alaskan delicacy.
• Alaskan King Crab – A luxurious seafood dish, often served with melted butter.
• Craft Beer – Try local brews from Skagway Brewing Company, including their famous Spruce Tip Ale.

• Flights: The nearest major airport is Juneau International Airport (JNU), with small planes connecting to Skagway.
• Ferries: The Alaska Marine Highway System offers ferry service between Skagway and other coastal towns.
• Car Rentals: Limited availability, but useful for driving the scenic Klondike Highway into Canada.
• White Pass Train: A popular way to experience the breathtaking scenery without a car.
• Walking & Biking: Skagway is very walkable, with most attractions in or near downtown.
• Cruise Ship Dock: Most visitors arrive via cruise ship, with easy access to local tours.

• For U.S. travelers: No passport or visa required unless traveling into Canada via the Klondike Highway or White Pass train.
• For international travelers: A valid passport is required, and a visa may be necessary depending on your country.
• For cruise passengers: Check with your cruise line for specific document requirements.

• Currency: U.S. Dollar (USD).
• Credit cards are widely accepted, but some small vendors prefer cash.
• ATMs are available in Skagway, though options may be limited.
• Currency exchange is not widely available—exchange money before arriving in Alaska.

• English is the primary language spoken.
• Some locals speak Alaska Native languages, but English is used in all tourist areas.
• Most tourist attractions and restaurants have English-speaking staff.

• Skagway is a friendly, small-town community—greet people with a smile and be respectful.
• Tipping is expected (15-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and for taxi/rideshare drivers).
• If hiking, be bear-aware—carry bear spray and make noise on trails.
• Dress in layers—weather can change rapidly, even in summer.
• Respect historical sites—many buildings date back to the late 1800s and are preserved for history.

• Restaurants: 18–20% tip is standard for good service.
• Bars: $1–2 per drink or 15–20% of the total bill.
• Hotels: $2–5 per bag for bellhops, $2–5 per night for housekeeping.
• Taxis & Rideshares: 10–15% tip is appreciated.
• Tour Guides & Excursions: $10–20 per person for great service.

• For summer travel (June–August): Book 6–12 months in advance for hotels, tours, and cruises.
• For major events (Skagway’s Fourth of July Parade, Klondike Road Relay): Book at least 6 months ahead.
• For last-minute trips: Skagway has limited accommodations, so booking at least a few weeks ahead is recommended.

• COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, but check for any updates before traveling.
• If traveling into Canada, ensure you have a valid passport and check customs regulations.
• Wildlife safety is important—never approach or feed wild animals.

Contact us at 281-229-0862 or admin@pointmetoparadise.com