This past September, the Avoya team set sail for Alaska on the newest ship in the Princess fleet, Discovery Princess. With an itinerary chock-full of breathtaking port stops, one port captured our hearts with its rich history and charming architecture.
Skagway, originally popularized during the Klondike Gold Rush as a gateway to abundant gold fields, serves as a favorite port for cruisers on their Alaska voyages. The colorful history of this city lives in the carefully preserved buildings and historic streets, transporting visitors back in time for an unforgettable experience.
Read on to discover the must-see spots and attractions in town for your visit to Skagway!
Contact a Travel Advisor in the Avoya Travel NetworkTM to learn more about Skagway, Alaska, and what this destination has to offer for your next vacation.
Originally constructed to transport prospectors and supplies to the gold fields, the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad now serves as a popular attraction for tourists. Travelers get to enjoy Alaska’s stunning scenery as the train journeys up steep grades, through tunnels, and over trestles. On our ride, we were amazed by the mountains, gorges, glaciers, and wildlife galore along the scenic route.
Avoya Tip: Be sure to buy your tickets in advance. The railway books up fast during peak season!
As you venture further into town, you’ll be greeted by the visitor center that offers travelers a fascinating glimpse into the town’s vibrant history. Skagway is a marvelous place for exploration, and the visitor center serves as the starting point for various guided tours that transport you back in time to the daily life of locals in the 1800s. There are also a few small exhibits within the building to help guide your visit in this charming port.
Whether on a guided tour or perusing Skagway independently, be sure to explore the iconic Moore Homestead while in port. Constructed in 1887 and one of the oldest standing structures in the city, the Moore Homestead serves as a reminder of the hardships faced by Skagway’s earliest settlers and the triumphs of their hard work. As we explored the small log cabin, we imagined what life was like for residents like the Moore family as they tried to capitalize on the riches offered during the gold rush.
Aside from the plentiful historic sites in Skagway, this port offers a plethora of beautiful natural scenery and wildlife. Whether you’re an avid nature enthusiast or a new outdoorsman, the hiking is accessible to all visitors with our favorite trail being the Pullen Creek Stream Walk.
Located just beyond the cruise docks, this flat quarter-mile loop is an easy trek for all visitors and provides an array of scenery in its short distance. Pullen Creek surrounds a flowing stream, colorful overhead foliage, and weaves through habitats of small wildlife like Arctic ground squirrels and numerous bird varieties. Only a few blocks from the historic sites we visited earlier, our team was impressed by how nature remained interwoven in the town despite decades of development.
Although the Avoya team didn’t get to experience it during our visit, adrenaline-seeking visitors can hike up the scenic A.B. Mountain. This 10-mile hike boasts an impressive 5,000-foot elevation gain best suited for seasoned hikers seeking a challenge in the Last Frontier. Don’t forget to pack your binoculars! This trek features stunning panoramic views of Skagway, the neighboring Lynn Canal, plus various forms of Alaskan fauna, including bears, bald eagles, mountain goats, and more.
Of course, no visit to Skagway is complete without an order of delicious frybread! Crispy pillows of dough sprinkled with cinnamon sugar; these sweet treats are a must-try during your visit. The best spot to enjoy this delicacy? Klondike Doughboy is a favorite of locals and sweet-toothed travelers, not to mention it’s easy to spot due to the ever-present line out the door!
We’re already craving another voyage to Alaska with a port stop in Skagway. The charming town is a dream destination full of history and adventure.
Are you ready to visit and experience this town’s wonders yourself? Connect with an Avoya Travel Independent Travel Advisor and they’ll guide you through the planning and booking process from start to finish, ensuring your Alaska cruise or city stay in Skagway is nothing short of perfect.
Call the number at the top of this page to be connected with a Travel Advisor in the Avoya Travel NetworkTM who can help you get the best price and answer any questions you have about booking your vacation.
