Soapy Smith Animatronic
1 / 10

Jeff Smith's Parlor Museum

3.9
·11 reviews·Skagway, United States

Step into the wild world of Soapy Smith at this historic Skagway museum, a key site from the Yukon Gold Rush era.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning visits

Avoid midday heat & crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Soapy Smith Animatronic

Jeff Smith's Parlor Museum

Best Time

Morning visits

Avoid midday heat & crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step into the wild world of Soapy Smith at this historic Skagway museum, a key site from the Yukon Gold Rush era.

3.9
(11 reviews)

"A quick, fascinating dive into Skagway's notorious Gold Rush past and the infamous Soapy Smith."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Short & Sweet Visit

The museum is a quick stop, around 10-15 minutes. Perfect for a brief dive into local history!

🌡️ Stay Cool Inside

It can get warm inside, especially on sunny days. Visit earlier if you're sensitive to heat.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Soapy Smith's Infamous Parlor

Soapy Smith's Infamous Parlor

Explore the historic hangout of con man Jefferson 'Soapy' Smith, a central figure in Skagway's Gold Rush lore.

Yukon Gold Rush History

Yukon Gold Rush History

Immerse yourself in the tales and artifacts of the dramatic Yukon Gold Rush era that shaped Skagway.

Frank H. Reid's Legacy

Frank H. Reid's Legacy

Discover the story of Frank H. Reid, a local hero often overshadowed by Soapy Smith's notoriety.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace Skagway's Gold Rush Spirit

Step back in time at Jeff Smith's Parlor Museum, a key spot in Skagway's Yukon Gold Rush history. Learn about the infamous con man Soapy Smith and the town's wild past. Plan for a short, immersive visit to truly grasp the era's atmosphere.

Beat the Heat and Crowds

Some visitors find the museum can get warm, especially during peak season, as air conditioning may be limited.Reddit Consider visiting earlier in the day or during cooler months to enhance your comfort and enjoy a more relaxed experience.

Best Times

When
Morning visits
Why
Avoid midday heat & crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Shoulder seasons (May/Sept)
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer visitors
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Replying to @Pettysetg0 my goal is to travel all over the world trying food 🥹🤍 #alaska #cruise #alaskancruise #juneau #skagway #juneaualaska #skagwayalaska #skagwaybrewingcompany
@tallzz_
538.6K likes • 6.3M views

🎯 Short & Sweet Visit

The museum is a quick stop, around 10-15 minutes. Perfect for a brief dive into local history! Reddit

🌡️ Stay Cool Inside

It can get warm inside, especially on sunny days. Visit earlier if you're sensitive to heat. Reddit

Is an Alaska Cruise on your bucket list? I’m a travel advisor, and cruises are one of my specialties. 🛳️ Check out how we spent the day in Skagway, without any shore excursions! #skagway #skagwayalaska #cruisetok #alaskacruise #alaskaadventure #travelagent #princesscruises #royalcaribbeancruises #carnivalcruise #disneycruiseline #norwegiancruiseline #hollandamericacruise #virginvoyages
@hungryinvegas
18.3K likes • 523.9K views
Are you going on an alaskan cruise? Well if one of your stops is skagway alaska you will want to go here! Gold rush cemetary and reid falls. Let me show you how to get there. #reidfalls #lowerreidfalls #goldrushcemetary #skagwayalaska #skagway #alaskacruise #alaskahiking #gohere #alaskaexcursion #mustseealaska @Woodlands Clothing @Holland America Line @carnival @Princess Cruises @Royal Caribbean @...
@dutchworld_americangirl
12K likes • 110.4K views

📜 Local History Focus

Appreciate the local history and the often-forgotten heroes like Frank H. Reid. Reddit

🚢 Cruise Stop Essential

A must-see if your Alaska cruise stops in Skagway! TikTok

I’ve been in Skagway Alaska every seven days for the past four months. As most of you know I only work a few hours on the ship and do most of my work off the ship doing marketing for stores here in Alaska. With only one of my stores being open today I was able to take a part of the day and go to the Yukon with my friend Reba who lives here full-time in Skagway and is a photographer. #yu#yukonk#ska...
@dutchworld_americangirl
5.9K likes • 85.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Short & Sweet Visit

The museum is a quick stop, around 10-15 minutes. Perfect for a brief dive into local history! Reddit

🌡️ Stay Cool Inside

It can get warm inside, especially on sunny days. Visit earlier if you're sensitive to heat. Reddit

📜 Local History Focus

Appreciate the local history and the often-forgotten heroes like Frank H. Reid. Reddit

🚢 Cruise Stop Essential

A must-see if your Alaska cruise stops in Skagway! TikTok

What Travellers Say

3.9
(11 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Jeff Smith's Parlor Museum to be a quick but insightful dive into Skagway's Gold Rush history, particularly the notorious Soapy Smith. While some note it can get warm inside and is a brief visit, others appreciate the local history and the chance to learn about figures like Frank H. Reid. It's considered a worthwhile stop for cruise passengers seeking a glimpse into the town's wild past.

"It is immensely poor that con man Soapy Smith is remembered and celebrated while Frank H. Reid, who was part of killing Smith, is forgotten. Frank H. Reid is the true hero who should be remembered and celebrated."

Seth Washburne

"The tour was too long, the whole place is a 10-15 minute visit. Also it was Hot inside as the air conditioning was not working!"

WIlliam Cummins

"More great local history!"

Jim DeLung, PhD

What People Like

Fascinating local history
Glimpse into Gold Rush era
Quick and accessible visit

What People Dislike

Can get warm inside
Very short visit

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Jeff Smith's Parlor Museum is conveniently located in downtown Skagway, easily accessible on foot from the cruise ship docks. It's situated on the corner of Second Avenue and Broadway, a central and well-known spot in town. Many visitors walk from the port, making it a straightforward addition to a day exploring Skagway. TikTok

Yes, absolutely! The museum is very walkable from the cruise ship terminals in Skagway. It's a short and pleasant stroll through the historic district, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere of the town as you head there. TikTok

For limited time, focus on the historic downtown area. Jeff Smith's Parlor Museum, along with nearby historic buildings and shops, can be explored in a couple of hours. Many cruise excursions also offer guided walks of the historic district. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission fees can vary, but it's generally an affordable attraction. It's best to check the official museum website or inquire upon arrival for the most current pricing. Many visitors find it a worthwhile expense for the historical insight it provides. Reddit

Advance booking is typically not required for Jeff Smith's Parlor Museum, especially for individual visitors. You can usually purchase tickets upon arrival. However, if you are part of a large group, it might be advisable to contact them beforehand. Reddit

Opening hours can be seasonal, often aligning with the cruise ship season in Skagway. It's recommended to check their official website or call ahead for the most up-to-date hours, especially if you are visiting outside of the peak summer months. Reddit

Yes, the museum offers a glimpse into a unique period of history that can be interesting for most ages. While the stories might be more appreciated by adults, the historical artifacts can engage younger visitors too. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Most visitors find that a visit to Jeff Smith's Parlor Museum takes about 10-15 minutes. It's a relatively small museum focused on a specific historical narrative, making it a quick but impactful stop. Reddit

Inside, you'll find exhibits and artifacts related to the life and exploits of Jefferson 'Soapy' Smith, a notorious con man who operated in Skagway during the Gold Rush. It offers a fascinating look at the town's lawless past. Reddit

Some visitors have noted that the museum can get warm, particularly during hotter periods, and air conditioning may not always be fully operational. It's advisable to be prepared for warmer temperatures inside. Reddit

While the museum itself is a self-guided experience, many walking tours of Skagway include historical context about Soapy Smith and his era, often mentioning the museum as a key site. TikTok

The museum is significant as it preserves the history of one of the most infamous figures of the Yukon Gold Rush, Soapy Smith, and his influence on Skagway. It provides a tangible connection to the town's wild and often turbulent past. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary. It's always best to check for signage within the museum or ask a staff member if photography is permitted. Often, personal photos are allowed, but flash photography might be restricted to protect artifacts. TikTok

Beyond the museum, capture the historic boardwalks, the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway depot, and the general atmosphere of the old buildings. The Gold Rush Cemetery and Reid Falls also offer scenic and historical photo ops. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Jeff Smith's Parlor Museum offers a quick, engaging peek into a wild historical period. While the stories of con artists might be more suited for older children, the visual elements and the general atmosphere of a Gold Rush town can capture younger imaginations. It's a short visit, so it won't disrupt a busy day of exploring Skagway. Consider pairing it with a walk to see the historic buildings and perhaps a stop at a local bakery for a treat. TikTok

🚢 Cruise Passengers

For cruise passengers stopping in Skagway, Jeff Smith's Parlor Museum is an ideal attraction. It's easily accessible from the cruise port and requires only a brief amount of time, making it perfect for fitting into a port day schedule. Many Alaska cruise itineraries include Skagway, and this museum provides a direct connection to the town's famous Gold Rush past. TikTok+1

📚 History Buffs

History enthusiasts will find Jeff Smith's Parlor Museum a compelling stop. It provides a focused look at the notorious Soapy Smith and the lawless environment of the Yukon Gold Rush. The museum offers a tangible connection to this dramatic era, allowing visitors to explore the historical context of Skagway's boomtown days and the figures who shaped its infamous reputation. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Notorious Soapy Smith

Jeff Smith's Parlor Museum is intrinsically linked to the legend of Jefferson 'Soapy' Smith. He was a charismatic and cunning con artist who rose to prominence in Skagway during the Klondike Gold Rush. Smith established a notorious gang that controlled much of the town's illicit activities, from rigged gambling games to outright theft from unsuspecting prospectors. His 'parlor' served as a hub for his operations and a symbol of his influence over Skagway's early days. The museum offers a glimpse into his world, showcasing artifacts and stories that paint a vivid picture of his reign. Reddit

The museum's focus on Smith highlights a complex period in Skagway's history, where lawlessness and opportunity intertwined. While Smith was eventually killed in a shootout, his legacy as a master manipulator and a significant, albeit negative, historical figure in Skagway persists. Understanding his story is key to understanding the town's Gold Rush era. Reddit

Skagway's Gold Rush Era

Skagway, Alaska, served as a primary gateway for prospectors heading to the Yukon goldfields in the late 1890s. This influx of hopefuls transformed the small settlement into a bustling, chaotic town overnight. The Yukon Gold Rush brought with it immense opportunity but also significant challenges, including harsh conditions, scarce resources, and a rampant crime rate. Jeff Smith's Parlor Museum is a tangible link to this pivotal time, preserving the atmosphere and stories of those who sought their fortune. Reddit

The spirit of the gold rush still resonates in Skagway, with many historical buildings and sites preserved to tell the tale. Visitors can walk the same streets as the prospectors, imagine the saloons and gambling halls, and learn about the figures who shaped the town's identity. The museum contributes to this immersive experience by focusing on a key player in the town's dramatic narrative. Reddit

The Unsung Hero: Frank H. Reid

While Soapy Smith often dominates the narrative, it's important to remember Frank H. Reid, a figure of integrity and lawfulness in Skagway. Reid was a respected town official and lawman who played a crucial role in bringing order to the chaotic Gold Rush town. He was instrumental in confronting Soapy Smith's gang and was tragically killed during the confrontation that ended Smith's reign. Reddit

Many visitors and locals feel Frank H. Reid deserves more recognition for his bravery and dedication to justice. The museum, while focusing on Smith, indirectly highlights the contrast between lawlessness and the efforts to establish order. Learning about Reid provides a more balanced perspective on Skagway's history and the individuals who fought for its betterment. Reddit

You may also like