Whitehorse, the small but spirited capital of the Yukon, is one of Canada’s most northerly cities. Just a quick two-hour-and-twenty-minute flight from Vancouver, it makes for an unexpectedly cool and easy weekend escape.
While it’s technically Canada’s driest city, that refers only to its low annual rainfall — not a lack of things to enjoy. In fact, when it comes to things to do in Whitehorse, the city is packed with great places to explore, eat, drink, and unwind.
Here are a few of my favourites.
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2025 Update: The Very Best Things to Do in Whitehorse Yukon
I was fortunate to return to Whitehorse in late 2025 after taking the Alaska Marine Highway ferry and exploring things to do in Ketchikan, things to do in Juneau, and things to do in Haines along the way north. This visit came after tackling the Dempster Highway in an electric vehicle, making Whitehorse the perfect place to regroup and recharge.
I’ve updated my full guide on things to do in Whitehorse, and also included my stay at the brand-new Hyatt Place Whitehorse, which lived up to its fantastic reputation.
After leaving Whitehorse on my southbound journey home, I stopped at two Yukon must-sees: the quirky and iconic Watson Lake Sign Post Forest, and the soothing Liard River Hot Springs. For anyone making this incredible drive — especially after the rugged conditions of the north — both stops are absolute highlights I’d recommend without hesitation.
Getting In and Out of Whitehorse
Flights to Whitehorse
Reaching the Yukon capital is far easier than many travellers expect. Daily flights to Whitehorse connect the city with major hubs like Vancouver, Calgary, and Edmonton, with most Whitehorse flight times from the West Coast taking just over two hours. Air North—Yukon’s homegrown airline—offers friendly service, generous baggage allowances, and reliable direct routes that make travelling to the territory straightforward.
While there are currently no direct flights from Europe, it’s worth noting that Condor used to operate seasonal non-stop flights from Germany to Whitehorse—a popular option for European travellers that will hopefully return in the future. Until then, European visitors will need to connect through major Canadian airports like Vancouver, Calgary, or Edmonton. Depending on the season, round-trip fares from Vancouver to Whitehorse can dip into the mid-$200s, making a northern getaway more accessible than you might expect.
Find current fares here: flights to Whitehorse.
Car Rental in Whitehorse
Once you arrive, renting a vehicle is the best way to explore the city and experience more of the Yukon’s incredible landscapes. A car rental in Whitehorse gives you the freedom to leave the capital and discover scenic highways, remote viewpoints, and historic communities—including historic Dawson City, one of the territory’s must-visit destinations.
Several rental companies operate directly from Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport, with rates often starting around $45–$60 per day for basic models, depending on season and availability. Booking your car rental Whitehorse Yukon in advance is especially important during the busy summer and fall months.
Compare options and book here: car rental Whitehorse.
What to See in Whitehorse
From the Midnight Sun to the Northern Lights, the Yukon delivers unforgettable natural wonders no matter the season. I spent my long weekend in Whitehorse in August, so this guide focuses on the best summertime things to do in Whitehorse and the surrounding area. Even so, it’s worth noting that Whitehorse is surprisingly compact and wonderfully walkable year-round—whether you’re strolling under endless northern daylight or crunching through fresh winter snowfall.
Stroll Downtown Whitehorse
First up on this list of what to see with a weekend in Whitehorse is, simply, the town itself. Much of the city’s charm can be found in the buildings in its compact downtown core, many of which are original from the boom days. Get your bearings while enjoying this unique and historic couple of city blocks.
SS Klondike
Perched on the banks of the Yukon River is the city‘s biggest reminder of its gold rush past, The SS Klondike. This historic steamship once ran freight up and down the river, servicing the communities along the way. Today it is a designated National Historic Site of Canada and can be explored with a tour guide or on your own.
Riverfront Stroll
From the SS Klondike, make your way back to town along the riverside pathway. If your weekend in Whitehorse falls on the summers months, rent a bike for a scenic five-kilometre loop along the Millenium Trail.
At the end of Main Street, you will find the Yukon River Viewing Wharf. This waterfront platform is a great place to take some pictures and relax by the rushing water. It is also home to an eleven-metre tall Healing Totem which is dedicated to those affected by the Canadian residential school system.
READ MORE: The Best Things to See and Do in Haines, Alaska
Macbride Museum
Post waterside stroll, head to the nearby Macbride Museum. Dedicated to preserving the Yukon’s history and heritage, this large museum features over 40,000 pieces spanning First Nations culture to the Gold Rush.
Do
With the downtown highlights covered, it’s time to look beyond the city limits. A weekend in Whitehorse gives you plenty of opportunity to explore the surrounding region and experience some truly Yukon-style adventures.
One note of caution: car rentals in the Yukon aren’t cheap, and unlimited mileage typically isn’t included. Most rentals come with around 200 kilometres per day, but that’s more than enough to get out of the capital and enjoy some classic things to do in Whitehorse and the nearby wilderness.
Emerald Lake
Just 40 kilometres south of Whitehorse sits one of the Yukon’s most photographed natural landmarks: Emerald Lake. Its vivid teal water, caused by light reflecting off glacial silt and limestone deposits, makes it a standout even by northern standards. On a calm day, the surrounding mountains reflect perfectly on its surface—a mirror-like scene that’s impossible not to stop for.
There is a roadside pullout to snap some pictures from however to get away from the tour buses head another minute south to the lakeside access road.
BOOK HERE Compare prices on rental cars in Whitehorse with ExpediaCarcross Desert
Another five minutes down the road brings you to one of Canada’s most unexpected sights — the Carcross Desert. This 640-acre stretch of rolling sand dunes was shaped more than eleven thousand years ago by receding glaciers and the drying of ancient lakes.
The result is a strikingly out-of-place landscape: sun-bleached hills of sand surrounded by rugged mountains and northern forest, a true Yukon curiosity that feels worlds away from the Arctic environment around it.
The area isn’t just photogenic—it’s also a playground for both locals and visitors. Sandboarding and off-roading are big draws in summer, while in winter the dunes transform into a quirky spot for snowboarding and sledding.
Carcross
An additional five-minutes past the sand dunes lies the postcard-perfect town of Carcross. Settled between Bennett and Nares Lakes, Carcross draws a crowd for its beauty and its locations on the rail line. Visitors from cruise ships docked in Skagway, Alaska make their way along the White Pass into Carcross and are rewarded with culture, sandy beaches, and my favourite stop while spending a weekend in Whitehorse.
BOOK HERE Learn about Klondike history and enjoy Whitehorse scenic spots!
Take a stroll along the sandy beach and pedestrian bridge before heading to Carcross Commons. Don’t miss stepping inside the Mathew Watson General Store, the oldest operating store in the Territory, and coffee at Caribou Crossing!
Miles Canyon
On your way back to Whitehorse, it’s well worth stopping to stretch your legs with a walk through Miles Canyon. This scenic trail follows the Yukon River as it cuts dramatically through volcanic rock, and it all begins at the historic Robert Lowe Suspension Bridge — a charming, nearly century-old crossing that sets the tone for the views ahead.
Those looking to go a little further can follow the river bend and make the three-and-a-half kilometre hike the Canyon City, an abanded historical mining settlement.
BOOK HERE Half or full-day Arctic hiking tour into the Yukon Wilderness.
Where to Eat and Drink in Whitehorse
Beyond its natural beauty and nearby attractions, Whitehorse is also a surprisingly strong foodie town. From cozy cafés to creative local kitchens, there’s plenty to enjoy between adventures. Here are a few favourites to try when spending a weekend in Whitehorse:
Klondike Ribs and Salmon
The food at this seasonal favourite is every bit as memorable as the history behind its building. Originally constructed in the early 1900s as a bakery, it later became home to Klondike Airways — a delivery company that operated without an actual airplane. Over the years it has also served as a carpentry shop and even a coffin maker. That layered past is still proudly on display, inside and out, giving the place a nostalgic charm that’s impossible to miss.
Today, it’s known for hearty homemade dishes featuring northern fish and game such as bison, elk, and — naturally — plenty of salmon. And don’t leave without trying their fish and chips; they’re locally famous and beloved for a reason.
READ MORE: Tips on Visiting Ketchikan, Alaska – The Salmon Capital of the World!
The Dirty Northern/Miners Daughter – Best Restaurant in Whitehorse?
This bar/restaurant features BC craft beer as well as local Yukon Brewing. The food is surprisingly high-end for a bar and could be the best restaurant in Whitehorse. Highlights include its pizzas and halibut burger. Northern favourites such as Arctic Char and Bison can also be enjoyed here.
Find the best deal, compare prices, and read what other travellers have to say at TripAdvisor
Yukon Brewing
Whitehorse is well ahead of the craft beer craze thanks to Yukon Brewing. Established in 1997, today its beer can be found in stores as far away as Quebec and Germany. Although known for its Yukon Gold English Pale Ale, guests can sample several seasonal brews in its cosy tasting room.
READMORE: Surviving the Sourtoe Cocktail in Dawson City, YukonWhere to Stay in Whitehorse
Edgewater Hotel whitehorse
For my weekend in Whitehorse, I stayed at the recently renovated Edgewater Hotel. It’s conveniently located in downtown Whitehorse and across the street from the Yukon River. The Edgewater Hotel Whitehorse is also within stumbling distance of the Dirty Northern pub which won me over! Rooms are modern and clean despite being located in a historic gold rush era building.
Best Western Whitehorse Hotel
On a separate weekend in Whitehorse trip, I stayed at the more budget-friendly Best Western Gold Rush and can recommend as well. Rooms at the Best Western Whitehorse hotel are cheaper but, like everything else in town, is still within walking distance to all highlights.
Hyatt Place Whitehorse
On my latest trip, I stayed at the brand-new Hyatt Place Whitehorse and I can’t recommend it enough. With modern comforts, thoughtful amenities, and a prime downtown location, it’s quite possibly the best hotel in the city — if not the entire North.
Read my full review here: Hyatt Place Whitehorse Hotel Review
Hostel in Whitehorse
Whitehorse has very limited hostel-style accommodation, especially compared with other northern capitals. For many years, the best-known budget option was Beez Kneez Bakpakers Hostel, a small, home-style hostel that offered dorm beds and private rooms. However, it has operated seasonally and intermittently in recent years, and availability can vary by season.
Because there are few traditional hostels in the city, travellers on a budget often turn to guesthouses, cabins, and budget hotels, which fill a similar niche with shared kitchens, simple amenities, and a social atmosphere. As a result, it’s best to check current operating schedules well in advance when planning a low-cost stay in Whitehorse.
Wrapping up this Weekend in Whitehorse
There you have it. A weekend in Whitehorse filled with plenty of great things to see, do, eat and drink. Whitehorse makes for a uniquely northern Canadian escape that offers a compact trip covering history, natural beauty, and northern culture. With direct flights from Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, and hopefully again from Frankfurt Germany, it is also incredibly accessible.
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Thoughts on the best things to do in Whitehorse Yukon?
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Although my weekend in Whitehorse was sponsored in part by Travel Yukon,
the experience, opinions and northern discoveries are my own.
