Where to find things in Skagway

One of the best places to find things you need are inside of buildings like these.

Visiting Skagway, Alaska is a surreal experience for many cruise ship passengers. There are far more people on your ship than there are residents of Skagway. In fact, there are only about 1,000 residents in our town, and that number may be a bit high because I don’t know that many people. Skagway is so small, you may wonder where you can find things you may need while on vacation. This blog will help you figure it out.

There are no shopping malls in Skagway

Okay, so let’s get this out of the way. There are no shopping malls anywhere near Skagway. There is also no Walmart, supermarket, Carrs, Costco, department store, K Mart, Publix, Sears, pharmacy, doctor’s office, clothing boutique, or dentist. That’s right. You’re not in Kansas anymore, Dorothy.

Where can I find some groceries?

There are two grocery stores in Skagway. The Fairway Market (IGA) on 4^th Ave and State St. and You Say Tomato on 20^th Ave. and State St. Fairway Market has a larger selection but may also be mostly out of food. The barge brings food to town on Tuesday, so you should try to shop for food on Tuesday or Wednesday. Otherwise, you could be out of luck. You Say Tomato offers healthier selections like organic produce, and it’s a little more expensive. Anyway, those are your choices.

Where can I find a battery for my camera?

If you need batteries for a camera, GoPro, or some other electronic device, you should go to Radio Shack on 5^th Ave. just off of Broadway. Yes, we still have a Radio Shack. They have a lot of electronic crap that people often need. There is another camera store just up the block but I don’t remember its name. Let’s call it the Camera Store. It’s full of camera stuff but they could use an interior decorator.

Where can I buy an umbrella?

If it’s raining, you may think an umbrella is a good idea. Trust me, it’s not. The wind usually picks up in the morning or early afternoon. When it does, your umbrella will turn inside out and locals will laugh at your misfortune. You’re better off with a poncho. They are sold in many of the gift stores.

Where can I buy some medicine?

It depends. If you just need some aspirin, ibuprofen, or cold medicine, you may find what you need at Fairway Market. If they have any. If they do, be sure to check the expiration dates. If you need prescription medicine, you can try our local clinic. The Dahl Memorial Clinic is on 14^th and Broadway. They have a small selection of stuff, so you should try to bring prescription medication with you and not rely on this option.

Where can I buy a tour from a locally-owned company?

Duh!