Downtown Whitehorse
Downtown Whitehorse: Where urban charm meets wild Yukon adventure, offering wildlife encounters and trail access.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Long daylight hours
Downtown Whitehorse
Best Time
Long daylight hours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Downtown Whitehorse: Where urban charm meets wild Yukon adventure, offering wildlife encounters and trail access.
"Experience the magic of the Yukon with urban convenience and wild encounters right at your doorstep."
Wildlife Watcher's Delight
Keep your eyes peeled for urban wildlife like foxes! Remember to admire from a safe distance. :camerawithflash:
Support Local Businesses
Explore unique shops and services like Bliss Salon and local barber shops. :shopping_bags:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Miles Canyon
Minutes from downtown
Explore an ancient landscape with stunning views, perfect for a short excursion from the city.
Downtown Whitehorse Streets
Main Street and surrounding areas
Discover local shops, cafes, and barber shops. Keep an eye out for unique art and community spaces.
Grey Mountain Trails
Accessed from downtown
World-class mountain biking awaits on these scenic trails, offering adventure right at the city's edge.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wild, Even Downtown
Plan for Seasonal Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wildlife Watcher's Delight
Keep your eyes peeled for urban wildlife like foxes!
Remember to admire from a safe distance. :camerawithflash:Support Local Businesses
Explore unique shops and services like Bliss Salon
and local barber shops. :shopping_bags:Adventure Awaits on Trails
Hit the Grey Mountain trails for biking!
Great for active travelers. :athletic_shoe:Community Hubs
Check out the YukonU Innovation & Entrepreneurship office for local business support.
:office_building:Tips
from all over the internet
Wildlife Watcher's Delight
Keep your eyes peeled for urban wildlife like foxes!
Remember to admire from a safe distance. :camerawithflash:Support Local Businesses
Explore unique shops and services like Bliss Salon
and local barber shops. :shopping_bags:Adventure Awaits on Trails
Hit the Grey Mountain trails for biking!
Great for active travelers. :athletic_shoe:Community Hubs
Check out the YukonU Innovation & Entrepreneurship office for local business support.
:office_building:Volunteer Hub
The AWG Office at 401 Main Street is key for volunteer paperwork.
:clipboard:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise downtown Whitehorse for its unique blend of urban convenience and immediate access to stunning natural landscapes and wildlife. The friendly atmosphere and local charm are frequently highlighted, making it a welcoming base for exploring the Yukon. Some find the city's amenities limited compared to larger centers, and weather can be a significant factor depending on the season.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Whitehorse is accessible by air via the Whitehorse International Airport (YXY). From the airport, taxis and shuttle services are available to take you directly to downtown Whitehorse.
If you're driving, the Alaska Highway passes through Whitehorse, making it a key stop for road trips.Downtown Whitehorse is quite walkable, with many shops, restaurants, and services located within a few blocks of each other.
For longer distances or exploring surrounding areas, consider local taxis or ride-sharing services if available.The main thoroughfares in downtown Whitehorse include Main Street, Second Avenue, and Third Avenue. These streets are lined with many businesses and amenities.
While Whitehorse is a smaller city, there are some public transit options. It's advisable to check the latest schedules and routes with the local transit authority for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, it's not uncommon to spot wildlife like foxes or even bears in and around downtown Whitehorse.
Always maintain a safe distance and never feed wild animals.🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Exploring the streets and public areas of downtown Whitehorse is free. However, individual attractions, shops, or restaurants may have their own admission fees or costs for services.
Business hours in downtown Whitehorse can vary, especially outside of peak tourist season. Many shops and restaurants are open during standard business hours, with some extending into the evening. It's best to check specific business hours online or by calling ahead.
Downtown Whitehorse hosts various events throughout the year, from local markets to community gatherings. Checking local event listings or the city's tourism website is recommended to see what's happening during your visit.
Miles Canyon is a natural area and generally does not have an entrance fee for public access. Enjoy the scenic beauty and hiking trails.
The Yukon Visitor Information Centre is a great resource for information on local services, attractions, and events in Whitehorse and the surrounding Yukon.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Miles Canyon offers stunning ancient landscapes just minutes away, perfect for a scenic walk.
For more active pursuits, the Grey Mountain trails provide excellent mountain biking opportunities accessible from downtown.Downtown Whitehorse features a variety of shops, including local boutiques, art galleries, and stores selling unique Yukon-made products. You can also find services like hair salons
and barber shops.Yes, the downtown area is walkable, and nearby natural areas like Miles Canyon offer beautiful walking paths.
The Dream Trail on Grey Mountain is also a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts.Downtown Whitehorse has a friendly, laid-back atmosphere with a strong connection to the surrounding wilderness. It's a hub for local businesses and community activities.
While possible during the winter months, light pollution from the city can diminish the aurora viewing experience. For the best chance to see the Northern Lights, it's recommended to travel a bit outside of downtown Whitehorse to darker areas.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Downtown Whitehorse offers a range of dining options, from casual cafes to restaurants. You can find local eateries and places offering comfort food.
Look for local specialties and products. Some cafes might offer unique jams or local cheeses.
Exploring the local markets can also lead to delicious discoveries.You'll find a mix of cuisines, often with a focus on hearty, comforting meals suitable for the northern climate. Expect to find local ingredients featured on menus.
Yes, downtown Whitehorse has several cafes where you can grab a coffee and relax. These spots are often popular with locals and visitors alike.
Many restaurants in downtown Whitehorse are family-friendly, offering a welcoming atmosphere for children. Casual dining spots are usually a safe bet for families.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique blend of urban life and wilderness. Look for wildlife sightings,
scenic views of the Yukon River, and the charming streetscapes of downtown.Miles Canyon offers dramatic landscapes perfect for photography.
The trails on Grey Mountain also provide elevated views of the surrounding wilderness.While technically possible during winter, light pollution can be an issue. For optimal aurora photography, head to darker areas outside the city.
Keep an eye out for local art installations, historic buildings, and the diverse flora and fauna that can appear even in urban settings.
While specific downtown photography tours might be limited, many local tour operators offer excursions that include opportunities for landscape and wildlife photography in the wider Yukon region.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for family-friendly dining options downtown, as many restaurants cater to all ages. Depending on the season, check for local events or festivals that might offer kid-friendly activities. The proximity to nature means you can easily combine a city exploration with short, manageable outdoor excursions.
🚶♀️ Active & Outdoorsy Travelers
Beyond these highlights, the city itself is a great base for planning longer excursions into the Yukon's vast wilderness. Consider renting a bike or joining a local tour to explore more of the region's natural beauty. The active spirit of Whitehorse is infectious, and you'll find plenty of opportunities to get your adrenaline pumping.
🛍️ Shoppers & Culture Enthusiasts
Keep an eye out for community events or markets that pop up, offering a direct way to engage with local artisans and producers. The walkable nature of downtown makes it easy to spend an afternoon browsing and discovering the unique offerings of this northern city.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Urban Wilderness
Beyond wildlife, the city itself is a hub of local culture and services. You can find everything from hair salons and barber shops to community innovation centers like the YukonU Innovation & Entrepreneurship office, which supports local entrepreneurs. The downtown area is designed to be walkable, making it easy to discover these local gems on foot.
Adventure Trails at Your Doorstep
Beyond biking, the natural beauty surrounding Whitehorse is a major draw. Miles Canyon, a short drive from downtown, presents an ancient landscape with dramatic geological formations and scenic walking paths. It's an ideal spot for a leisurely hike or a photography excursion, offering a glimpse into the region's geological history. The accessibility of these natural wonders from the urban center makes Whitehorse a unique destination for those who love both city amenities and outdoor exploration.
Community and Local Life
Community events and volunteer efforts are also a significant part of life in Whitehorse. The city often hosts local markets and gatherings, providing opportunities to connect with residents and experience the local culture. For those involved in volunteer work, the AWG Office at 401 Main Street is a key point for administrative tasks. This active community spirit makes downtown Whitehorse a welcoming and engaging place to explore.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit