Dawson City

A historic gold rush town frozen in time with authentic 1898 architecture, saloons, and museums that tell the story of the Klondike Gold Rush. It's one of Canada's most atmospheric and character-filled destinations.

Things to do

• Discovery Claim — Visit the site where George Carmack first discovered gold in Rabbit Creek (now Bonanza Creek) in 1896, marked by a historic cairn and interpretive signage.
• Dawson City Museum — Explore artifacts, photographs, and exhibits documenting the Klondike Gold Rush and life in Dawson City during its boom years.
• Diamond Tooth Gerties Gambling Hall — Experience an authentic 1898 saloon with live entertainment, can-can dancers, and period gambling tables that operates seasonally.
• Midnight Sun Tour — During summer months (late May to mid-July), experience the phenomenon of continuous daylight and watch the sun barely dip below the horizon.
• SS Keno Sternwheeler — Board this restored 1937 riverboat moored on the Yukon River to learn about river transportation during the gold rush era.
• Jack London Cabin — Visit the restored cabin of the famous author who lived in Dawson during the gold rush and wrote about his Yukon experiences.
• Bonanza Creek Road Drive — Take a scenic drive along this historic route through creeks where prospectors struck gold, passing old claims and equipment.

Food to try

• Yukon Gold Salmon — Fresh or smoked salmon caught from Yukon rivers, a local staple prepared in restaurants and available at markets throughout the region.
• Sourdough Bread and Pancakes — Authentic sourdough starter breads and pancakes using century-old recipes, reflecting the prospectors' culinary heritage and available at local bakeries.
• Moose Stew — Hearty traditional stew made with local game meat, root vegetables, and wild ingredients served at local restaurants and lodges.
• Yukon Peach Schnapps — Local liqueur made from peaches, a signature spirit unique to the Yukon region available in bars and specialty shops.
• Bannock Bread — Traditional fried bread served with jam or used as a base for meals, representing the food culture of early prospectors and Indigenous peoples.

Local customs & good to know

• Embrace the Gold Rush Spirit — Locals take pride in the 1898 era; many dress in period clothing during summer and visitors are encouraged to engage with the authentic historical atmosphere respectfully.
• Plan for Extreme Daylight Variation — Summer brings nearly 24-hour daylight while winter offers only a few hours, so pack accordingly and adjust sleep schedules for the season you visit.
• Respect the Remote Setting — Dawson City is isolated in the Yukon; services close seasonally, fuel and supplies can be limited, so plan ahead and support local businesses year-round.
• Join Discovery Days Festival — If visiting in August, participate in the annual Discovery Days celebration with parades, competitions, and community events honoring the gold rush discovery date.