Whitehorse

Yukon's capital and largest city, serving as the gateway to the territory with excellent museums, galleries, and dining. It's the perfect base for exploring the Yukon and offers urban amenities alongside northern culture and outdoor access.

Things to do

• Beringia Interpretive Centre — Explore Ice Age megafauna and the land bridge that connected Asia to North America through interactive exhibits and fossils.
• MacBride Museum of Yukon History — Discover Yukon's gold rush heritage, Indigenous cultures, and frontier history housed in a historic log building with artifacts and photographs.
• S.S. Klondike Sternwheeler — Tour this restored 1929 riverboat that once transported cargo on the Yukon River during the gold rush era.
• Miles Canyon — Hike or kayak to this dramatic river gorge just south of the city where the Yukon River narrows between towering rock walls.
• Whitehorse Waterfront Trail — Walk or bike this scenic riverside path offering views of the city, the Yukon River, and surrounding boreal forest.
• Yukon Arts Centre — Visit galleries showcasing contemporary and traditional Yukon art, plus catch live theatre and performances.
• Takhini Hot Springs — Soak in natural geothermal pools surrounded by subarctic forest about 28 kilometers north of the city.

Food to try

• Yukon Gold Salmon — Fresh locally-caught salmon prepared grilled or smoked, celebrating the territory's rich fishing tradition.
• Musk Ox and Bison — Game meats unique to northern Canada, often served as steaks or in traditional stews at local restaurants.
• Sourdough Bread and Pancakes — Gold rush-era staples still made with traditional sourdough starter, found in bakeries and diners throughout the city.
• Wild Berry Desserts — Saskatoon berries, lingonberries, and cloudberries from the Yukon wilderness featured in pies, jams, and pastries.
• Arctic Char — Delicate freshwater fish from northern lakes, typically pan-seared and served with seasonal vegetables.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Indigenous heritage — Whitehorse sits on traditional Tr'ondëk Hwëch'in territory; acknowledge and learn about First Nations culture and history during your visit.
• Embrace the midnight sun and polar night — Summer brings nearly 24 hours of daylight while winter offers extended darkness; plan activities accordingly and adjust sleep expectations.
• Dress warmly year-round — Even summer temperatures rarely exceed 20°C, and winter drops well below -20°C, so pack layers and proper cold-weather gear.
• Support local businesses — Whitehorse's economy relies on tourism and independent shops; choosing local restaurants, galleries, and outfitters directly supports the community.