Situated in a narrow glaciated valley at the head of Alaska's Taiya inlet, the small town of Skagway first earned its place on the map in 1897 when prospectors from all over the world arrived by steamship in search of gold in the Dawson Gold Fields, turning it into a bustling port town with saloons, hotels and railways. Skagway is today one of Alaska's most popular ports and cruise passengers arriving here will still feel the same gold rush atmosphere of the town as period buildings and wooden sidewalks are restored to their former glory reinforcing the distinctive charm of this port. Visitors will love the authenticity of the town and exploring the attractions such as the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park Visitor Center or even trying their hand at a gold panning at Liarsville Gold Rush Trail Camp. Cruise ships dock at one of three deep-water docks which are all just a short walk from town. Smaller ships may dock at the Ferry Dock, which is also just a short walk from the heart of the town.

Shopping in Skagway

Most shops are located on Broadway Street, but this small town does boast a few shopping opportunities, with everything from the regular touristy shops selling mass produced trinkets and junk to dinky independent clothing stores. For great crafts, prints, needlework and jewellery, visit Skagway Artworks or Changing Tides while Fairway Market is the place is a good place to pick up some fresh fruit snacks, film, health and beauty aids and sundries. Klothes Rush Gifts is the perfect place to pick up Alaska souvenirs while Miss Kitty's Buttonhole on French Alley sellsfunky hats, canes and 1898-style clothing.

Best Buy:

gold jewellery, hand-painted gold-mining pans

Dining in Skagway

Stowaway Cafe - casual eatery serving comforting homemade fare

Lemon Rose Bakery - sandwiches and great cinnamon rolls

Skagway Brewing Company - microbrewery with American pub food

Best Dish:

Alaskan king crab

Smart Shuttle or City Transit

The town of Skagway is extremely small and is best to explore by foot. However the city of Skagway provides a shuttle service that can get you from the ship to anywhere in the city center and even to the Jewell Gardens and Klondike Gold Fields. The Smart shuttles are white and blue. Find their bus stops all over town at the blue and white poles. Pay the driver $2 for a ticket or $5 for a day pass.