Others looking to share a good laugh with friends or family can stay indoors to watch live comedic performances or poetic readings by one of Yukons most well-known authors, Robert Service. Youll find restaurants such as Olivias Alaskan Bistro or the Skagway Fish Company, renowned for their grilled salmon and king crab leg dishes. Unfortunately, the tour didnt allow time for a short hike uphill toReid Falls, which cascades 300 feet down the mountainside. In 1898, construction began on the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad and finished in July 1900. And the best part is you can do it all at your own pace with the scooters. The Tlingit (tribe) resided in the area and created a trade route with the Athabascans. We did, however, ride up to the Skagway Scenic Overlook for panoramic views of the town and harbor, including the site of our massive cruise ship. Whether you are passionate about exercising or simply there to enjoy the calming ride, Skagways Rainforest Bicycle Tour lets you view some of natures greatest marvels at your own pace and style. I signed up for an afternoon Street Car Tour; therefore, I just wanted to check out the lay of the land in the morning. I'm Jenny, a mom to a sassy 10-year old girl, and dog lover. This article may contain referral links. Check for best Alaska cruise prices here. When it was time for my afternoon tour, I boarded a converted yellow streetcar on wheels. Skagways torturous White Pass lacked the steep slopes of the Chilkoot but was 10 miles longer and had its own obstacles. Serious hikers and backpackers often visit the nearby ghost town of Dyea. After we got off the train ride, we were starving. If you plan to hike Chilkoot, stop at the Trail Center for information and permits. Looking for an interactive, educational, and fun excursion that kids of all ages will absolutely love? Although there are three different excursion tours to choose from, the most fulfilling one is a six-hour journey that combines a fascinating hike to the river where you will board your raft and float through some of Alaskas most stunning landscapes. Boomer travelers rely on our weekly email newsletter for fresh travel inspiration, tips, and advice. Skagway is not very big and you can see so much of it riding around town. As you float to different landmarks and sights, your tour guide will also provide you with in-depth stories, facts, or information relevant to your experience and the history of the Gold Rush. The National Park (website) manages four units within 13,191-acres that encompasses the historical district in Skagway, the nearby ghost town of Dyea, and the famous Chilkoot and White Pass Trails. He built a tour bus from an old Ford bus and referred to it as a streetcar, giving town tours. She has traveled within 48 of the 50 United States and in over 70 countries. While on your way, scan the shoreline and skies for wildlife. Theres good reason for the Southeast Alaska towns popularity. Guests of all ages are invited to explore the museums magnificent displays. Soapy died that night, but Frank lingered for twelve days. While Im not big on shopping, these items interested me even if I wasnt buying anything. The Adventure Park and Zip Line tour provides guests with 3.5 hours of excitement and thrill as you fly through the sky at 30 miles an hour and take in the views of mountains, wildlife, or nature from treetop obstacles. Do you want to take to the sky and explore the most remote and exclusive parts of Skagway? The former Arctic Brotherhood Hall now functions as the Skagway Convention & Visitors Bureau. Need some help packing for an Alaska cruise? More than 70 saloons thrived, giving the city the nickname roughest place in the world. The main rabble-rouser was Jefferson Randolph Soapy Smith. On that September day, travelers on my boat were lucky; we were the only cruise ship in port. The excursion features the most reliable equipment, bridges, and rope courses. Skagway continues as a shipping and supply center but depends on tourism. I wore those more than my other boots and was really glad I had them! She told how Frank staged a gunfight with Soapy. The town of Dyea arose from a small trading post to a major port in 1897 afterword of the Klondike gold discovery. We report on active travel adventures so that you know what to expect. Its no surprise that tourism is the towns largest industry, with nearly a million tourists visiting each year. Those connections werent granted until June 1962, when the city and the surrounding area became a National Historic Landmark. Luckily, I had a friend who had just visited Skagway and gave me some tips. For seafood lovers and anglers alike, the opportunity to see the famous Salmon Run is a truly remarkable and joyous experience. The waterfall spans over 200 feet and provides picturesque views and stunning beauty. I can fully understand why people would want to live there full time in the summer. Despite having 40 waterfalls identified by name in Alaska, Pitchfork Falls is one of Skagways most incredible beauties. So much so, Ive thought about coming back and staying here for a few days to see everything I missed. Dont Miss out on the rest of my series about Cruising to Alaska! I have to mention this Skagway excursion even though I just told you to leave the cruise planned excursions behind. However, youll still want to bring a lightweight rain jacket, as it still rains pretty frequently. I also want to mention, the owners (a husband and wife team) of Skagway Scooters are SUPER nice. The population dropped down to just 872 in 1910. While the towns overcrowding increased, so did the prosperity of local businesses.. After taking some time to bond with the playful puppies, professional mushers will guide you through how to maneuver the sled, signal the dogs attention, and the rules of riding. I would highly consider booking this one through the cruise line as it does book up and sell out (reserve tickets long before your cruise!). Allow 3-4 days to complete this challenging adventure and then imagine attempting it in winter. The escape room experience is a fun way to spend time with your loved ones. Passengers leave the depot aboard the historic narrow-gauge railway. Youll find many of the citys shops, historic sites, and restaurants on Broadway. Looking for things to do on your Alaska cruise? including giving us a ride back to the ship in their van so we could squeeze in every last second of using the scooters before boarding time! However, his career was short-lived, ending in a shoot-out with Frank Reid, the city engineer, in 1898. Choosing an activity can be overwhelming, with so much to see and do. There, you will observe strikingly high, snow-covered mountain peaks, calm crystal blue water filled with sometimes jumping salmon, and abundant wildlife. Excursions range from 2 hours to full-day, with options for hiking and camping drop-offs and connections to other Yukon destinations. It is recognized as an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark, awarded to engineering feats like the Panama Canal, the Eiffel Tower, and the Statue of Liberty. While most visitors to Skagway arrive on cruise ships, Skagway is also accessible via the Alaska Marine Highway ferry system. Throughout the tour, Alaska Mountain Guides will support you each step of the way, sharing historical facts as your hike to your treetop destination, capturing stunning picturesque photos for your family, or providing a helping hand throughout the experience. He called on Mae West to come up and visit him sometime. The newsmen and photographers loved it. Once you arrive in Haines, your tour will board a bus to take you to Chilkoot Lake State Park. This route is part of the Golden Circle road trip that travels between Skagway and Haines (or vice versa). Surrounded by gorgeous scenery from the White Pass Trail and waterfall, guests will have the opportunity to search for gold and keep their findings as a souvenir or venture out and explore the old trail. Dyea was the gateway to the gold fields and was the first stop before gold miners headed up the famous Chilkoot Trail. And lucky for YOU, I am passing on my great experiences to you. Since then, the Klondike has been mined on and off. I enjoyed your blog abt your Alaskan Cruise. That was a big mistake!if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[580,400],'seemamatravel_com-box-4','ezslot_18',190,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position != 'undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-seemamatravel_com-box-4-0')}; Skagway ended up being my FAVORITE stop on our 7 day Alaskan Cruise and Ill be happy to tell you why. Established in 1897, Bites on Broadway is the perfect way to kick-start your day in beautiful Skagway, Alaska. The town streets feel like an old western movie set, but the mountain scenery shouts Alaska. Hello! Although you are most likely to see the salmon run in July and August, Pullman Creek is home to many wild animals, including harbor seals and bears that visit throughout the year. Younger visitors will enjoy interacting with real wildlife skeletons, whale baleen, dog sleds, and gold-mining equipment. It was the smallest of all the ports and I didnt put too much time and energy into learning about this great town before we left. Is Skagway cruise port on your Alaskan cruise itinerary? Instead, his journey is forever remembered in one of Skagways most popular museums. There are only four main roads, and the city measures four blocks wide by sixteen blocks long. Whether you want to help your kids burn off some extra energy or gain an educational experience while visiting Skagway, the Junior Ranger Activity Centre is an excellent spot to visit. Heres your chance to learn some shady history. I stopped for a photo-op at a Totem Pole, then slowly made my way back to the boat, snapping photos of the colorful buildings. Although designed for children, young at heart adults will be intrigued by some of the activities just as much, or if not more, than the children themselves. In todays travel climate, trip insurance is a must. Gorgeous flora and mountain-side terrain surround the crystal clear lake. My lengthy saunter on Congress Way took me past numerous signs that explained the towns gold rush history. He masterminded a nine-month reign of gambling, prostitution, thievery, and murder. Currently operating as an informative museum, you will have an opportunity to hear stories about the women who owned the lively dance hall and bar and uncover the secrets hidden in some of the artifacts visitors left behind. By air, by land or sea, Debi's always ready to explore at ByLanderSea. My baby is a junior high s, Did something weve never done before and hired, We may be home already but its never too late t, Can you say best day ever!!! Skagway is the last stop along your 7 day Alaskan Cruise and getting back on board the ship can be a little depressing. Sadly, the railroad was too late for the gold rush peak as many prospectors had already moved on. Skagway became infamous for its lawlessness. Located just a short walk from the cruise port, the approximately 12,900-acre park was established in 1976 to preserve the heritage, memories, wildlife, and lands that belonged to the Klondike Gold Rush. Either way, the huskies will give you a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to embrace true Alaskan adventure as you take in some of the most remote and breathtaking landscapes Alaska has to offer. Completed with shows available throughout the day, this theater offers you a captivating and entertaining way to learn about Skagways greatest outlaws, such as Soapy Smith, the history of the city, and the Gold Rush Era. In fact, the remote city thrives on tourism. You need to call them directly from their website to book. THIS is Skagways best-kept secret. The Brewing Company offers something extraordinary for every type of diner to enjoy. Most come in the summer on cruise ships with up to five boats per day. But, if you accompany guides on an official tour of the museum, you will be some of the first cruise passengers to know how the nickname Soapy came about and why Jefferson Smith continues to be such a well-known person to anyone visiting Alaska. Luxury Cruise Reviews for Small Ship Cruisers, Explore Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, Hubbard Glacier Cruise by Luxury Cruise Ship, The Best Things to Do in Anchorage, Alaska Before or After a Cruise. shuttle bus leaves from the pier and follows a set schedule for anyone not up to a long walk. The Days of 98 Show has entertained audiences for over 100 years. Soapy had been a friend, and Itjen helped keep his legend alive. Players must learn to collaborate to unravel some of Skagways deepest, darkest secrets that will eventually crack the code to escape. This experience will fill you with some of the most joyous memories you will never forget. It was also 80 degrees out (in Alaska!) Its also supposed to be haunted! They have a restaurant and bar and you can even take tours of the building that used to be an old brothel. But, if you visit in the summer months, keep your eye on the shorelines as some lucky passengers have seen bears trying to snatch some running salmon, which is an extraordinary sight. Check out our Alaska shore excursion reviews. Although this may not have been one of the first places you thought of visiting while in Skagway, the Gold Rush Cemetery is a fascinating site that can make you travel back in time to 1897. The train ride is by far the most popular tourist attraction. As one of the restaurants most popular choices amongst diners, this dish allows guests to choose from various fresh loaves of bread, salamis, vegetables, cheeses, and sauces. In 1935, as a great publicity stunt, Martin took his streetcar to Hollywood to promote Skagway tourism. Whether youre researching an Alaskan cruise itinerary or thinking about booking a shore excursion, here are our favorite things to do in Skagway, Alaska. Although there are different ways to arrive at your Musher Camp, whether by boat, helicopter, or van, you are guaranteed to be welcomed by the most well-trained, excited, and loving huskies. Another character in Skagways past is Martin Itjen, a stampeder in 1898 who became the unofficial director of tourism. Opening as early as 7:00 am during the weekdays and 6:00 am on weekends, this bed and breakfast restaurant makes guests feel close to home with their delicious homemade breakfast meals and nostalgic atmosphere. We should have booked them for much much longer! But imagine what it would be like to experience a birds-eye view of Skagways lush rainforests and waterfalls. Every year, Skagway welcomes an astonishing million tourists. Although gardening is a precious art form within itself, the Jewell Gardens also showcases one-of-a-kind glassworks uniquely handcrafted and blown by local artisans. Initially, home to the native Tlingit, settlers in the 1890s founded the city during the height of the Alaska gold rush. Among the vast amounts of Gold Rush memorabilia, photographs, and historical records, lies a magnificent collection of Indigenous Alaskan artifacts, including mammoth tusks, the original Tlingit canoe, beadworks, and wood carvings. While floating down the gentle river, youll be surrounded by beautiful vegetation and marvelous glacier views. Others from my ship roamed amongst the hand-woven baskets, fossils, walrus tusks, silver jewelry, and native arts. Today, Dyea still serves as the starting point for hikes on the famous 33-mile Chilkoot Trail, one of Alaskas most popular backpacking routes. We love to get out and explore and make memories traveling. When you visit Skagway, that sense of relaxation will follow as you float through the 17-mile Taiya River in a non-motorized raft. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.You can find my Amazon influencer store here. One soldier summed it up, the work was too steep for a goat and too cold for a polar bear. Just a short walk from the cruise port, passengers can walk along Pullen Creek (also known as Dewey Creek) and watch Chinook and Pink salmon swimming upstream as they prepare to spawn. At times, we were so close to the edge that I could barely see the ground below us. Their menu was great too. I meandered along and found an old rail car and a railroad snowplow. Get your family started on a new adventure! They were easy to reach out to, very responsive, and did everything they could to accommodate us. Adding to the trails difficulty was a mandate from Canada requiring each man to bring a years supply of food to prevent starvation. This brewery is renowned for its divine homebrewed ales and remarkable wine collection using the highest-quality local ingredients available. We had an amazing time just riding around in the sun and cool ocean breeze, discovering different parts of Skagway. Whether you want to stroll through the town at your own pace or join a guided, short-walking tour, Main Street gives passengers a sense of what it means to live in a tight-knit community full of history. If its your first time traveling to Skagway, we highly recommend the scenic excursion as long as youre not afraid of heights. Visiting Davidsons glacier is most definitely a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Its our 1st ever and I absolutely appreciate stumbling upon your Pinterest post as i was searching what to wear on an alaskan cruise in September. Now i will definitely bring my hunter boots! The White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad is one of the most popular things to do in Skagway, Alaska. Here we go 8th gr. Do you want to explore the local shops on your own, take a train ride on the historic White pass railroad, hike one of the many trails, explore the gold rush history, or experience dog sledding? Skagway does NOT feel like a touristy town and that made me love it even more. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'seemamatravel_com-box-1','ezslot_8',188,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position != 'undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-seemamatravel_com-box-1-0')};if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'seemamatravel_com-box-1','ezslot_9',188,'0','1'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position != 'undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-seemamatravel_com-box-1-0_1')};if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'seemamatravel_com-box-1','ezslot_10',188,'0','2'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position != 'undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-seemamatravel_com-box-1-0_2')};if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'seemamatravel_com-box-1','ezslot_11',188,'0','3'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position != 'undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-seemamatravel_com-box-1-0_3')}; .box-1-multi-188{border:none !important;display:block !important;float:none !important;line-height:0px;margin-bottom:3px !important;margin-left:0px !important;margin-right:0px !important;margin-top:3px !important;max-width:100% !important;min-height:250px;min-width:300px;padding:0;text-align:center !important;}My name is Jenny and I'm mom to a sassy 10 year old girl. Several companies provide air-taxi service between Skagway and other Inside Passage communities, with daily scheduled flights between Juneau and Skagway. In Skagways downtown core, youll find various saloons, museums, theatres, and the very photogenic Arctic Brotherhood Hall. Skagway was one of those towns that really took me by surprise. . No spam, unsubscribe anytime. As thousands of gold-seekers traveling to the Klondike passed through Skagway and advanced up the White Pass Trail, many left behind treasures that reveal hidden insights into the citys unique past. Before long, I turned the corner and neared the first of the National Park buildings. You can explore the museum, filled with artifacts, machinery, and memorabilia that will help you retrace the steps of miners and Skagways history. Our animated and costumed tour guide recalled the towns history and the story of Soapy and Frank Reid in great detail. Kids get to explore historical artifacts, wildlife animal furs, victorian-style play outfits, educational games, and a reading and coloring center. Keep your eyes open for spectacular wildlife animals, including brown or black bears and bald eagles. Weve put together a list of our favorite things to do in Skagway, Alaska, to make your decision easier. Encompassing a 3-mile round trip with an elevation of approximately 800 feet, the Lower Dewey Lake Trail features gorgeous rolling hills, rich forest scenery, and lush river-sider flora that serves as a postcard-worthy sight. The weather in Skagway is typically warmer and dryer than any of the other Inside Passage ports of call. Plan to have a fun night so you dont feel all bummed out later on. Before your adventure begins, excursion leaders and helicopter pilots will inform you of all safety precautions and provide you with the appropriate attire for your flight. Bears, harbor seals, bald eagles, and hawks call this area home. Skagway Alaska offers some of the best weather along the Inside Passage. If you are a big history buff or are interested in unique historical personalities and stories, the Gold Rush Cemetery can be a quick and intriguing place to explore. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'seemamatravel_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_12',197,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position != 'undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-seemamatravel_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0')};And dont let the scooters scare you. Whether you want to learn more about the Klondike Gold Rush or are curious about Skagways history, the Skagway Museum and Archives are perfect for the whole family to enjoy. Discovered on Chilkat Inlet in 1867, excursions to Davidson Glacier will leave you speechless and mesmerized by one of Skagways finest beauties. Dont forget to follow me on PINTEREST to get more Alaskan Cruise Guides! Cruise ships offer many pre-arranged excursions, but you can also hire a tour guide and outfitter on your own (book ahead with Viator). As you watch a whale breach from the water or hear the sounds of rushing water from a stream, you cant help but feel at peace. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Skagway gets its name from the Tlingit word skagua, which translates to place where the north wind blows.. In 1976, after numerous studies, President Gerald Ford signed a bill authorizing the creation of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. Autumn colors dotted the hillsides, and the little town looked inviting. Make sure to confirm the time you must be back on the ship before taking off. As Tappan Adney, a journalist writing about 1897 in The Klondike Stampede, said,Whichever trail you took, you wish you had taken the other.. And my body needs, My morning view I wake up early every Mo, One of my closest friend, Erika, suffered a stroke, Some highlights from our NYC trip New york wa, Heres to life with a TEENAGER where every da, Today starts a new adventure for us Abby is s, Happy New Years from the happiest dog alive! But, you cannot leave without trying one of Louisvilles all-you-can-eat signature meals, including their smoked Alaskan salmon, homemade cornbread, or a zesty garden salad made from local, organic produce. For animal-loving cruisers, excursions to Chilkoot Lake State Park should be number one on your list of things to do in Skagway, Alaska. My Itchy Travel Feet participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. Many cruise passengers choose to visit Alaska due to the sense of tranquillity from connecting with nature. Several other notable individuals lay to rest alongside these two men, whose names are on the National Park Services website. If you fancy an alcoholic beverage, check out Sakgways Brewing Co. to sample some locally-crafted beer. Gold fever brought an estimated 100,000 prospectors to the isolated region with big dreams, but most of them failed. More than 10,000 attempt the trail hike, backpack, and run each year. and a cold beer at Skagway Brewing was a perfect choice. Take a look at some of these amazing views along our ride on the White Pass & Yukon Railway. Along the way, be sure to bring your camera and keep your eyes open for the chance to spot some of Alaskas most well-known marine animals, including whales, sea lions, and dolphins. ABSO-FREAKING-LUTELY!if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'seemamatravel_com-banner-1','ezslot_7',176,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position != 'undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-seemamatravel_com-banner-1-0')}; The White Pass Railway is literally on the edge of the mountain and climbs pretty high, pretty quickly.