Whitehorse is a brilliant starting point for getting under the skin of the Yukon, with plenty to do without needing to travel far. The MacBride Museum is a great first stop, packed with artefacts and exhibits covering the territory’s natural history, First Nations culture, the development of Whitehorse, and the stories of the early settlers. Down on the waterfront you’ll also find the SS Klondike, one of the best-known sternwheelers in the Yukon, now preserved as a historic site and easy to visit as you explore the riverside area.

For something more contemporary, Whitehorse has a strong creative scene. Arts Underground is a long-running local organisation showcasing rotating exhibitions of Yukon arts, crafts and photography, while the Northend Gallery is another lovely place to browse, with a focus on Yukon and First Nations artwork, sculpture and handcrafted jewellery and gifts inspired by the northern landscape.

If you fancy stretching your legs, there are lots of easy walking options. The Millennium Trail is a popular five-kilometre paved loop that links key riverside paths and makes for a relaxed wander close to town. A highlight is Miles Canyon, where dramatic basalt rock walls frame the striking turquoise Yukon River. Whether you get there on foot, by bike or by car, it’s a calm, scenic place to spend some time, with additional trails through the surrounding forest if you’d like to keep walking.

For time on the water, there are several outfitters in Whitehorse offering canoe and kayak rentals, which is a brilliant way to experience the Yukon River at a slower pace.