Red Onion Saloon – Skagway, AK

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Originally built as a whorehouse in 1897, the Red Onion Saloon was moved to its present location in 1914. Located on the corner of 2nd & Broadway, the saloon is a two-story white building with dark trim and a storefront window.

There are several reported hauntings in the Red Onion Saloon. The shadowy figure of a woman can sometimes be seen watering a non-existent plant in the Madame’s Room upstairs. Police have been called to investigate footsteps in the second floor hallway, but have found nothing. The scent of strong perfume lingers in the air. Many locals believe the saloon is haunted by the spirit of a former owner.

Find out more about the Red Onion Saloon here.

Visiting the Red Onion

Skagway is a small town, and the Red Onion is easy to find downtown. The saloon is a popular stop with cruise passengers in summer, and it has long offered tours of the upstairs rooms where the brothel once operated. Skagway is much quieter in the off-season, so check the saloon’s current hours before you plan a visit.

FAQ

Who haunts the Red Onion Saloon?

The best-known ghost is a woman locals call the madam, seen upstairs in the Madame’s Room. Many people believe a former owner haunts the place too.

What do visitors report?

Footsteps in the upstairs hallway when no one is there, a strong smell of perfume and a shadowy woman tending plants that aren’t there.

Where else can I read about haunted places?

Try the legend of Fernwood Campground in Big Sur or Lucas Tavern, another old stop for travelers.