Planning your summer getaway to Dawson City, Yukon
Dawson City was once the heart of the Klondike Gold Rush, drawing thousands of prospectors chasing fortune in the late 1800s. That spirit of adventure still runs through the town, which has preserved its historic charm while welcoming visitors from around the world. You’ll find colorful heritage buildings, wooden boardwalks and a main street that looks much like it did over a century ago, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Yukon wilderness.
Today, Dawson City is a one-of-a-kind destination where history and adventure meet. From river cruises and gold panning to vibrant festivals, arts, and local dining, the town offers a wide range of experiences for curious travelers. Coast Hotels operates three unique properties in Dawson City, each designed to match a different pace and style of travel. Whether you're after modern comfort, rustic charm or something in between, there’s a Coast Hotels stay that fits your plans.
There’s no shortage of things to see and do in Dawson City. Below, you’ll find a few ideas for how to spend your time and how Coast Hotels can help you make the most of every moment.
Experience Klondike Gold Rush History in Dawson City
Dawson City’s gold rush history isn’t just preserved in its buildings. It’s something you can still experience firsthand. Right outside of town, Free Claim #6 offers the chance to pan for gold at a real historic site. Bring your own pan or pick one up in town and see if you can strike a bit of luck where so many have tried before.
For a taste of Dawson’s more theatrical side, stop by Diamond Tooth Gerties Gambling Hall, Canada’s oldest casino. It mixes vintage-style gambling with nightly can-can performances in a historic venue that captures the energy of the town’s wilder days. You’ll also find a lively bar scene, costumed staff and a welcoming atmosphere that makes it easy to step back in time and enjoy a truly unique night out. If you're in the mood for a bit of dress-up, Peabody’s Photo Parlour lets you step into the past. Choose a Klondike-era costume and take home a sepia-toned souvenir photo that feels straight out of 1898. It's a fun, family-friendly experience and a perfect way to capture your time in Dawson. With an array of props and outfits, it’s also a great way to explore the fashion and flair of the Gold Rush era while creating a lasting memory.
Top Outdoor Spots to Visit in Dawson City
Dawson City’s setting is as memorable as its history, starting with Midnight Dome, one of the best viewpoints in the area. You can drive or hike to the top and take in panoramic views of the Yukon River, surrounding mountains, and the town below. If you’re up for a day trip, Tombstone Territorial Park is about 90 minutes away. Known for its jagged peaks and open tundra, it’s a must for hiking, photography or just getting a feel for the wild, wide-open landscape that defines this part of the Yukon.
One of the most unforgettable parts of a summer visit to Dawson City is the midnight sun. With daylight stretching well past 11pm, you can explore, dine, or relax outside under a sky that refuses to dim. It’s a surreal and magical experience that turns an ordinary evening into something extraordinary. If you’re visiting in late August or early fall, the magic continues as the northern lights (aurora borealis) begin to appear. The skies shift from golden dusk to vibrant waves of green and purple, offering a front-row seat to one of nature’s most awe-inspiring shows.
Adding the Yukon River to Your Dawson City Itinerary
The Yukon River has been central to Dawson City since long before the gold rush, and it’s still one of the most awe-inspiring parts of any visit. Start by exploring the S.S. Keno, a retired Parks Canada sternwheeler now docked along the riverfront. You can walk the decks and learn how goods and people once moved along this vital waterway.
The Klondike Spirit paddlewheeler offers scenic cruises right from town. As Dawson’s only working sternwheeler, it gives you a chance to take in the river, nearby hills, and historic sites while enjoying a calm and comfortable ride.Looking for a bigger adventure? Local outfitters offer a multi-day canoe trip from Whitehorse to Dawson City. The 700-kilometre route follows the same path gold rush hopefuls once traveled, with wilderness, river bends and historic stops along the way. Guided and self-guided options are available.
Where to Stay in Dawson City with Coast Hotels
Not sure where to stay in Dawson City? Coast Hotels has three distinct properties in town, each offering a different kind of stay, so you can choose what fits best for your trip.
If you want to be right where the action is, The Downtown, a Coast Hotel, puts you there. It’s home to the Sourdough Saloon, where you can take part in Dawson’s most well-known tradition, the Sourtoe Cocktail. The drink is served with a preserved human toe, and to officially join the “Sourtoe Cocktail Club,” the toe has to touch your lips.
Eldorado, a Coast Hotel, is a comfortable, history-rich stay right in the centre of town. It blends classic style with modern touches, and offers two easy on-site options for food and drink: the Bonanza Dining Room for breakfast and lunch, and the Sluice Box Lounge for a casual drink, especially when the summer patio’s open.
Midnight Sun, a Coast Hotel, is a seasonal boutique stay right in the middle of town. The restored heritage building stands out for its classic façade, but it’s what’s inside that makes it feel special. The space is small and thoughtfully designed, with period details and a more elevated feel. Downstairs, the Midnight Sun Lounge serves cocktails and small bites in a low-key setting that’s easy to settle into after a day out.
Ready to Plan your Dawson City trip?
Come for the gold rush history, stay for the wild northern charm, quirky traditions and endless opportunities to explore. From panning for gold to hiking scenic trails or sipping the legendary Sourtoe Cocktail, Dawson City offers an experience you won’t find anywhere else. Coast Hotels makes it easy to enjoy it all with three well-located properties that put you close to the action while providing the comfort and convenience you need. Book directly on our website for the best rates, exclusive offers, and added perks to make the most of your Yukon adventure.
Guest Experience
“I booked a room to get ready for my wedding (we were otherwise camping). The king suite with a balcony was perfect. The staff were incredibly accommodating and both the room and the lobby were beautiful for our pictures.” - K. Rafuse