If you love history and have Alaska on your bucket list, you’re in luck! While Alaska is one of the youngest official states, it has much history. One of our places to dive into Alaska’s history? This historic Alaska small town is located right on the Inside Passage. Skagway is a history and nature lover’s paradise and one of the best small towns in Alaska. Let’s take a look at some of the fun things to do in Skagway, Alaska.

Welcome to Skagway, Alaska!
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This charming town is a popular destination for travelers who want to experience the beauty and history of Alaska. Skagway is located in the northern part of the Inside Passage, which is a narrow stretch of water between the mainland and a chain of islands.
This location makes Skagway an ideal starting point for exploring the region, but it's also a fascinating destination in its own right.
Walter Bibikow / DigitalVision / Getty Images
First and foremost, Skagway is a town steeped in history. During the late 1800s, Skagway was a boomtown that was overrun by gold seekers during the Klondike Gold Rush.
Today, you can relive this era by exploring Skagway's historic downtown area, which is filled with restored buildings and museums that provide a glimpse into the town's past.
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One of the must-visit places in Skagway is the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, which includes several historic buildings that have been restored to their former glory.

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You can take a guided tour of the park or explore on your own, but either way, you'll learn a lot about the gold-rush era and the people who lived through it.
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If you're interested in nature and wildlife, Skagway is also an excellent destination. The town is located right on the edge of the water and the mountains, so there's a ton of different wildlife to see.
Another great way to experience Skagway's history is by taking a ride on the White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad.
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This historic railway was built during the gold rush era and takes you through breathtaking scenery as it winds its way up into the mountains. The train ride is a true adventure and provides an unforgettable way to experience the rugged beauty of Alaska.
For those who are seeking a more active experience, Skagway offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures.
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You can go hiking, fishing, kayaking, or even dog sledding in the winter months. The Chilkoot Trail is a popular hiking trail that takes you through stunning scenery and provides an excellent opportunity to experience the wilderness of Alaska.
Skagway, Alaska, is a truly unique and exciting destination that has something to offer everyone.
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Whether you're interested in history, nature, adventure, or the arts, Skagway has it all. So pack your bags and get ready to experience the beauty and history of this charming town!

Have you ever visited the historic small town of Skagway, Alaska? What did you think of one of the best small towns in Alaska? Was it amazing? What are your favorite Alaska small towns? Let us know in the comments! If you want to stay in a historic hotel in Alaska, the Historic Skagway Inn was built in 1897!

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More to Explore

The Best Towns in Alaska

Will Suphan | February 02, 2024

What are the tiniest towns in Alaska?

The tiniest towns in Alaska include:

  • Seldovia. This island town of about 255 people is only accessible by boat or plane, yet it’s quite popular with tourists.
  • Whittier. Most of the 217 residents here live in a single building. Yet, this tiny town is home to a cruise ship port.
  • Adak. Located in the Aleutian Islands, this town is a great place to see marine wildlife. It has only 326 people living there.
  • Chickaloon. Home to the Ahtna and the Dena'ina Athabaskan peoples, this is a ruggedly beautiful town.

Learn more about the tiniest towns in Alaska. 

What are the most charming small towns in Alaska?

The most charming small towns in Alaska include:

  • Talkeetna. Quite close to Denali National Park, this lovely town is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Coldfoot. People like to come to this charming little town for its spectacular views of the Aurora Borealis. 
  • Ketchikan. This beautiful small town is full of old-fashioned buildings and is surrounded by lush forests.
  • McCarthy. You’ll find this town at the foot of a glacier in the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, the largest national park in the country.

Find out more about the most charming small towns in Alaska. 

What are the most peaceful small towns in Alaska?

The most peaceful small towns in Alaska include:

  • Angoon. This town is located on Admiralty Island and is surrounded by nature and teeming with wildlife.
  • Gustavus. This town is known as the international gateway to Glacier Bay National Park and it is the epitome of peace and quiet.
  • Paxson. If you really want to get away from it all, this remote town has spotty cell service at best, so you’ll have a lot of quiet.
  • Hyder. Right on the Canadian border, this tiny town of only 100 people is a great mix of Alaskan and Canadian culture.

Discover more about the most peaceful small towns in Alaska. 

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Skagway, AK 99840, USA