Nestled in the rugged landscapes of Alaska, Skagway is a small town with a big history. Known for its gold rush days, this quaint town is also infamous for its ghostly residents and tales of the supernatural. If you’re planning a spooky trip to Skagway, you’re in for an adventure filled with haunted hotels, eerie saloons, and the lingering spirits of the past. Welcome to the “Gold, Ghosts, and Girls of the Night” tour!
The Gold Rush Legacy
Skagway’s history is steeped in the gold rush era of the late 19th century. This period brought a flood of prospectors, adventurers, and opportunists to the area, all seeking their fortune in the rich Alaskan soil. The town quickly grew into a bustling hub of activity, complete with saloons, brothels, and boarding houses.
Haunted Highlights
Red Onion Saloon and Brothel Museum
Address: 2nd Avenue & Broadway, Skagway, AK 99840
The Red Onion Saloon, once the finest brothel in Skagway, is now a museum that offers a peek into the town’s seedy past. Built in 1897, the saloon’s second floor housed the working girls who entertained the miners and prospectors. Today, the spirits of these women are said to still roam the halls. Visitors often report cold spots, phantom footsteps, and the scent of perfume lingering in the air. The ghost of Lydia, a former madam, is particularly active, making her presence known to female visitors while playing tricks on the men. The saloon also hosts a brothel museum so be sure to book a tour that is sure to be interesting.
Golden North Hotel
Address: 3rd & Broadway, Skagway, AK 99840
Built during the height of the gold rush, the Golden North Hotel is another hotspot for paranormal activity. The most famous ghost here is that of Mary, a young woman who died in her room while waiting for her fiancé to return from the gold fields. Mary’s spirit is often seen in rooms 14 and 23, where guests have reported feeling cold breezes, seeing apparitions, and experiencing sensations of being choked, as if reliving Mary’s final moments of pneumonia. The building no longer takes overnight guests but you can visit its shops and eateries.
Girls of the Night
The brothels of Skagway were more than just places of ill repute; they were a vital part of the town’s economy and social structure. The women who worked there were known for their resilience and resourcefulness. Many of their stories are preserved in the Red Onion Saloon and Brothel Museum, offering a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the “girls of the night.” Their spirits are said to linger, keeping the memory of their struggles and triumphs alive.
Tips for a Spooky Visit
- Stay at the Haunted Hotels: Book a room at the At the White House B&B or another historic inn in Skagway. You might just have a ghostly encounter!
- Take a Ghost Tour: Join one of Skagway’s ghost tours to learn more about the town’s haunted history and hear firsthand accounts of paranormal activity.
- Visit the Red Onion Saloon: Tour the museum and maybe enjoy a drink at the saloon. Keep an eye (and an ear) out for Lydia and other spectral visitors.
- Explore the Historic District: Walk the streets of Skagway’s historic district, where many buildings from the gold rush era still stand. The energy of the past is palpable, and you never know what you might encounter.
Skagway, Alaska, offers a unique blend of history and hauntings that is perfect for any paranormal enthusiast. From the ghostly apparitions of former brothel workers to the lingering spirits of those who sought their fortune in the gold fields, the town is alive with stories of the past. Plan your spooky getaway to Skagway and immerse yourself in the eerie charm of this historic Alaskan town. For more haunted destinations and travel tips, be sure to check out the Spooky Travel Guide directory and blog!
Embark on your spooky adventure today and experience the gold, ghosts, and girls of the night in Skagway, Alaska.
