What do trains, puffy pastries, gold, climbing mountain passes on busses and crossing borders have in common? They’re all activities you can take part in on your Alaskan cruise vacation! Today we are continuing to bust the myth that Alaskan cruises are just for adults. There are so many wonderful ports on an Alaskan sailing, and I’m here to highlight them. We recently took a look at exploring the port of Sitka. Today, let’s explore Skagway with kids!
Where is Skagway?
Skagway is located in Southeastern Alaska, and you’ll see it featured on many Alaskan cruise itineraries. When the ship docks in Skagway, you can take a flat, leisurely walk into the heart of downtown.
What should you see in Skagway?
Klondike Doughboy
If you’re in the mood for a warm puffy pastry, might I suggest Klondike Doughboy? This locally owned shop offers delicious frybread covered in cinnamon and sugar. It’s a great treat for walking around the wooden-planked sidewalks in town and taking in the sights. We walked straight here from the ship to avoid the morning rush for sugary goodness.
Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park
In the late 1800s, tens of thousands of hopeful prospectors descended on the area. The National Parks Service maintains and commemorates this boomtown with the National Historical Park. You can also participate in lots of activities to commemorate it yourself by taking part in panning for gold in the area!
White Pass Railway and the Yukon Suspension Bridge
I’d be willing to argue that the biggest draw to Skagway is the White Pass Railway. This railway was built in 1898 during the Klondike gold rush, and is an engineering marvel. The views from the train are incredible.
My family opted to only take the train ride one-way, which meant we took a motor coach for the journey up into the pass. The view along the journey was so beautiful. We stopped part of the way up for a photo op.
We crossed into Canada (YES you do need a passport on some closed-loop cruises depending on your excursions!) where we visited the Yukon Suspension Bridge.
The views were stunning. It was unbelievable!
These kids sure are brave!
Are you interested in exploring Alaska with your family? Summer sailings are filling up fast! Contact me today to start planning your voyage today!
-Written by Katie Gabbard, Kingdom and Cruise Travel Advisor