There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Skagway into a quick city adventure. From SGY, the Walking can get you into town in around 30 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Three things to verify before you walk out of SGY:
- Can you legally enter United States? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 30-minute journey each way by Walking, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
How to Get Into Skagway
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walking | ~30 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~50 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Walking is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
What to See and Do in Skagway
For a layover visit to Skagway, we’d suggest Klondike Gold Rush NHP Visitor Center and White Pass & Yukon Route Railway Depot. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Worth checking out if your schedule allows. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at SGY, check out Mountain & Inlet Vista or General Aviation Observation to keep yourself occupied.
Food Worth Trying
In Skagway
If you make it into town, The Sweet Tooth Cafe is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Starfire.
Inside SGY
If you’re staying in the terminal, Skagway Brewing Company is your main option. Olivia’s Bistro works too if you want something quick.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Quick budget math for your Skagway layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$13 |
| Meal | ~$25 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$48 |
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Bag Storage Near SGY
Specific locker facilities at SGY aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Skagway itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
WiFi at SGY should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in United States and you’re good to go.
Resting at the Airport
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, SGY has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Skagway count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave SGY. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.