What to Buy in Alaska on a Cruise: Best Shopping
Whether you’re embarking on an Alaska cruise with one of the top cruise lines or sailing on a luxury cruise ship. One thing is guaranteed—you’re in for a shopping experience like no other. From the rich cultural tapestry of Juneau to the art-filled streets of Ketchikan and the nostalgic charm of Skagway. Alaska’s cruise ports are bursting with unique finds and unforgettable treasures. This ultimate guide to shopping in Alaska delivers insider tips. Highlights the best deals and reveals what truly makes Alaskan onshore shopping so special.
Why Alaska Offers a Unique Cruise Shopping Experience
Alaska’s ports of call are more than just scenic stops. They’re immersive destinations offering access to native artistry, locally made products, and one-of-a-kind souvenirs. With every cruise port just steps from the docks, shopping becomes an effortless extension of your cruise adventure. For art enthusiasts, culture lovers, and souvenir hunters alike. These ports deliver a deeply memorable shopping guide rooted in Alaskan heritage and natural beauty.
Shopping in Alaska is not about collecting trinkets. It’s about connecting to a place. It’s about discovering locally carved totem poles. Handcrafted gold nugget jewellery, and the vibrant creativity of local artisans. The shopping experience here is less about mass-produced merchandise and more about meaningful purchases that reflect your unforgettable adventure.
Juneau: Alaska’s Capital of Culture and Color
Juneau is not only Alaska’s capital but also a hub of fine shopping and artistic exploration. Nestled between snow-capped peaks and the Gastineau Channel. Juneau offers a blend of natural splendor and retail therapy. All are within walking distance from the cruise ship terminals.
Franklin Street: The Heart of Juneau’s Shopping Scene
The main attraction for cruise guests in Juneau is Franklin Street. This bustling, pedestrian-friendly thoroughfare hosts a wide array of boutiques, gift shops, and renowned art galleries. From fine jewellery stores to charming gift shops and artisanal markets. Franklin Street is your go-to for a luxury shopping experience with local flair.
Top Spots on Franklin Street:
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Milano Diamond Gallery – Offers direct-from-the-manufacturer fine jewellery and luxury brands.
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Del Sol – Fun, color-changing apparel that reacts to sunlight.
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Cariloha – Luxurious, eco-friendly clothing and bedding made from bamboo.
These shops combine authentic craftsmanship with modern flair. Offering exclusive discounts and valid shopping coupons, you can download them through Cruise Shop Save. Insider tip: all shopping is conveniently close to Pier A and B, making Juneau perfect for a relaxed shopping day without a long walk.
Ketchikan: Creek Street’s Artistic Allure
Often dubbed the “Gateway to the Inside Passage,” Ketchikan is a port of call rich in cultural history and creativity. It’s a top attraction for both cruise vacations and Alaska land-and-sea journeys. Known especially for its totem poles and Creek Street.
Front Street: Bustling Alaskan Shopping at its best
Just steps from the cruise ship dock, Front Street and its adjoining lanes are where savvy shoppers head for high-quality jewelry and personalized service. This bustling shopping area is home to several well-regarded boutiques.
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Julie’s Fine Jewelry & Gifts: A family-owned business since 1993, offering authentic fine jewelry, including diamonds, gold quartz, sterling silver, and gemstones. They also feature a variety of gifts, sculptures, carvings, and paintings.
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Gold Rush: Located between Berth 1 and Berth 2 on Front Street, this locally owned store offers a selection of fine jewelry, including gold and diamonds.
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Scanlon Art Gallery: A cornerstone of Ketchikan’s art scene since 1972. Offering a diverse collection of Alaskan artwork, including original paintings, limited edition prints, handcrafted jewelry, and unique home decor. Located at 318 Mission Street, just under the Welcome Arch, it’s a must-visit for those seeking authentic Southeast Alaskan artistry.
These retailers offer a diverse range of jewelry and gifts, making Front Street and its adjoining areas a prime shopping destination for cruise passengers and visitors in Ketchikan.
Creek Street: An Alaskan Port where History and Art Collide
Creek Street is an iconic boardwalk built on stilts over the Ketchikan Creek. Once the town’s red-light district. It’s now home to an impressive collection of gift shops, Native American art galleries, and historic sites.
What sets Ketchikan apart is its dedication to preserving indigenous culture. Here, you’ll find intricately carved totem poles and jewelry crafted by native artisans. Each piece telling a story rooted in tribal legend and Alaska’s rich history.
Best Souvenirs on Creek Street:
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Hand-beaded garments and accessories.
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Totem-inspired art and carvings.
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Alaska-made literature, perfect for history buffs.
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Locally made fudge and salmon jerky—a flavorful souvenir.
Nature Enthusiasts’ Bonus: Spotting bald eagles perched nearby adds a touch of wild Alaska to your shopping adventure.
Pro Tip: Use your Cruise Shop Save map to locate shops offering exclusive cruise discounts and best deals on handmade gifts.
Skagway: Step Into the Gold Rush Era
Skagway’s unique charm lies in its time-travel feel. Once a booming Gold Rush town. Today it still radiates that same frontier energy. With restored buildings, boardwalk-lined streets, and saloons. The main shopping artery here is Broadway Street.
Broadway Street: Nostalgia and Nuggets
Broadway Street is home to quaint boutiques, galleries, and gift shops that feel straight out of the 1890s. For those interested in history and unique finds, this is a must-visit destination.
Must-Visit Locations:
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The Red Onion Saloon – A historic brothel turned museum and gift shop, offering a “Quickie Tour” for just $20.
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Gold Rush Jewellery Shops – Featuring rare and beautiful gold quartz jewelry.
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Back Alley Rock Shop – Located between 4th and 5th Avenue off Broadway, this shop offers Alaska gold nugget jewelry, Eskimo carvings, and a fun gem panning experience for all ages.
Top Retailers on Broadway Street & Nearby in Skagway
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Milano Diamond Gallery – Located at 211 Broadway, this boutique offers exclusive Alaskan-inspired jewelry, including pieces featuring Mystic Topaz and Swiss Blue Topaz.
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Aurora Jewelers – Situated at 300 Broadway, Aurora Jewelers specializes in natural gold nuggets, gold quartz, and rare gemstones like tanzanite and ammolite.
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Broadway Jewelry – A third-generation family-owned business at 500 Broadway, Broadway Jewelry designs and manufactures one-of-a-kind fine jewelry using natural gemstones.
Cruise Shop Save Tip: Many of these retailers offer exclusive discounts and free gifts to cruise passengers. Be sure to download your free Skagway port map and shopping coupons from Cruise Shop Save to make the most of your shopping experience.
Would you like assistance in planning your shopping route or recommendations tailored to your interests?
What is Gold Quartz?
Gold quartz is one of Alaska’s most iconic keepsakes and among the rarest forms of natural gold. It’s found in deep mines and combines pure gold with white quartz, forming stunning and unique jewelry pieces. Discovered in Juneau in the 1880s, this gem is now sought after around the world and makes a meaningful memento of your cruise journey.
Perfect Item Alert: If you’re buying only one souvenir in Skagway, make it a piece of gold nugget jewellery—stylish, rare, and tied to the region’s rich history.
Top Things to Buy in Alaska: Shopping List for Smart Cruisers
Here’s a handy guide to the best things to buy on your Alaskan cruise:
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Gold Nugget Jewellery – Authentic, locally crafted, and timeless.
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Gold Quartz Pieces – Rare and incredibly unique; no two are alike.
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Totem Poles – Carved by Native American tribes, deeply symbolic.
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Ulu Knives – Traditional Alaskan tools turned artisan souvenirs.
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Alaskan Art – Paintings, photography, and carvings by local artists.
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Color-Changing Apparel – Del Sol shirts and accessories.
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Bamboo Clothing – Cariloha’s luxury sustainable wear.
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Local Foods – Wild berry jams, smoked salmon, and glacier silt products.
Cruise Shop Save Insider Tips
Want to unlock the ultimate shopping guide for Alaska? Here’s how to shop smarter and save more:
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Download FREE Cruise Shop Save Maps – These digital maps are your go-to for top attractions, shopping highlights, and valid coupons. Click this link to download all the Alaskan Maps and Coupons.
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Join the Cruise Shop Save Facebook Group – Stay updated with the latest blogs, shopping secrets, and insider cruise port news. Click this link to the Private Group, please answer the questions and provide your email address to get in.
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Check for Exclusive Discounts – Many partner shops offer free gifts or significant discounts when you show your Cruise Shop Save coupon.
We believe that every cruise journey should include not just sightseeing, but meaningful, memorable shopping moments. Our mission is to enhance your cruise experience while supporting local Alaskan businesses.
Conclusion: Make Your Cruise Shopping Unforgettable
Your Alaskan cruise isn’t just about glaciers and wildlife—it’s about discovering treasures that will remind you of your adventure long after you’re home. In Juneau, you’ll find the heart of Alaskan artistry. In Ketchikan, you’ll walk the storied planks of Creek Street and admire handmade cultural artifacts. And in Skagway, you’ll feel the pulse of the Gold Rush as you browse gold nugget jewellery in buildings that echo history.
No matter what you buy—from a fine piece of jewellery to a simple souvenir infused with meaning—you’re investing in an experience. A connection to the land, the people, and the stories that make Alaska so unique.
So go ahead, explore, shop, and save. Let your cruise shopping experience leave a lasting impression—not just in your suitcase, but in your heart.
Need help planning your cruise port days? Cruise Shop Save has you covered with free maps, shopping coupons, and concierge planning support. Happy cruising!