Pubs in Skagway, AK

“The 20-minute tour of the Red Onion Saloon Brothel Museum proves that a quickie visit can still pack plenty of character and historical anecdotes delivered with playful confidence. From there, the tone was set: equal parts history lecture and wink-at-the-audience storytelling.

The museum itself is thoughtfully preserved, with original artifacts and period details that clearly show real care went into protecting this slice of Skagway’s past. The Saloon could’ve let patrons wander through and appreciate the objects alone, but the experience would lose all of its sparkle without the guides. Touring in full period character, they strike a perfect balance, informative without being stiff, humorous without turning Red Onion’s history into a joke. The double entendres land lightly, keeping things entertaining without overshadowing the facts or making it awkward.

At the time of our visit, it was $20 per person for 20 minutes which felt well worth it. It’s efficient, engaging, and surprisingly educational, especially considering how easily it could have leaned purely into novelty. And if you are a Legend-Tripper, there are plenty of ghostly tales during the tour. Note that you must take the tour to be able to see the museum.

If you’re building a Skagway itinerary, this is an easy yes. The Red Onion tour doesn’t overstay its welcome, teaches you something you didn’t know, and sends you back onto the street and/or back into the bar smiling, which is exactly what a good historical detour should do.“