Juneau, the capital city of Alaska, is one of those rare destinations where mountains, glaciers, wildlife, and culture all come together in a single place. Whether you’re visiting on a cruise, planning a week-long getaway, or simply curious about the best things to do in Juneau Alaska, this guide will walk you through the city’s top attractions with real experiences, local insights, and practical tips.
As someone who has explored Juneau more than once, I can confidently say that no two visits feel the same. The city changes with the seasons, and even familiar sights like the forests and glaciers carry a different energy each time.
In this blog, you’ll find the best Juneau Alaska attractions, outdoor experiences, local recommendations, and even a real-life case study to help you plan unforgettable memories.
Content
1. Explore the Legendary Mendenhall Glacier
If there’s one thing Juneau is known for, it’s the unbelievable Mendenhall Glacier—a 13-mile-long river of ice located just outside the city. Whether you’re into sightseeing or adventure, this iconic spot offers it all.
Why It’s Special
Multiple viewpoints for amazing photos
Easy trails like “Photo Point Trail” for families
More challenging hikes for adventure lovers
Frequent bear sightings near Steep Creek
Travel Tip
During summer, go early in the morning for quieter trails and clearer glacier views.
Mendenhall Glacier is also one of the most recommended Juneau sightseeing spots for first-time travelers.
2. Go on a Whale Watching Tour — A Juneau Must-Do
One of the top outdoor things to do in Juneau Alaska is joining a whale watching tour. Juneau is one of the best places on the planet to see humpbacks bubble-net feeding—a cooperative hunting behavior only seen in Alaska.
What You Can Expect
Humpback whales breaching
Orcas (if you’re lucky)
Sea lions & seals
Knowledgeable naturalist guides
Long-tail keyword used naturally
Most travelers search for Juneau Alaska whale watching tours because this experience is widely considered unmissable—especially during peak season (May–September).
3. Ride the Mount Roberts Tramway
The Mount Roberts Tramway takes you from sea level to breathtaking panoramic views of Juneau in just minutes. Once at the top, you’ll find:
Nature trails
A cultural learning center
Local craft shops
A restaurant with scenic views
Personal note: If you’re traveling with family, this is one of the best family-friendly activities in Juneau Alaska because everyone—from kids to seniors—can enjoy it without strenuous hiking.
4. Hike Juneau’s Stunning Trails
If you’re a nature lover, you’ll find plenty of hiking trails in Juneau Alaska suitable for beginners to experts. Juneau’s trail system is rich with rainforests, mountains, streams, and more wildlife than you can count.
Top Trails to Try
Perseverance Trail – great for history lovers
Mount Roberts Trail – scenic and moderately challenging
East Glacier Loop – perfect if you’re visiting Mendenhall Glacier
These trails perfectly combine Juneau outdoor activities with local culture and natural beauty.
5. Visit the Historic Downtown Juneau
For culture and history, downtown Juneau is full of life. From historic buildings to local restaurants and museums, this area is ideal for travelers wanting to explore Juneau Alaska attractions at a relaxed pace.
Don’t Miss
Alaska State Museum
Red Dog Saloon (a classic!)
Gold Rush-era architecture
Local galleries and gift shops
If you’re short on time, exploring downtown is also one of the best free things to do in Juneau Alaska.
6. Discover Juneau’s Glaciers and Wildlife by Air
If you want a once-in-a-lifetime experience, take a helicopter ride and step onto a glacier. Many tours combine glacier landings with dog sledding, making it one of the most memorable Juneau Alaska glaciers and wildlife tours.
This activity is pricier than others, but the experience is unmatched.
7. Real-Life Case Study: A Family’s 1-Day Juneau Adventure
To help you see what a real visit looks like, here’s a case study based on an actual trip I helped plan for a family of four visiting Juneau by cruise.
The Travelers:
A family from Arizona, visiting Alaska for the first time.
Their Goals:
Experience nature
Stay within a moderate budget
See wildlife
Avoid overly strenuous activities
Their 1-Day Itinerary (and Why It Worked)
9:00 AM – Mendenhall Glacier Visit They started here because it’s easy, iconic, and perfect for all ages. The family enjoyed the Photo Point Trail and even saw a black bear from a safe distance.
12:00 PM – Lunch in Downtown Juneau They ate at a local seafood spot and explored historic streets—great cultural exposure without rushing.
2:00 PM – Whale Watching Tour Their top highlight! They witnessed multiple humpbacks and a pod of orcas. The kids loved it, and the photos were incredible.
5:00 PM – Mount Roberts Tramway They ended the day with peaceful views of the city and coastline.
Outcome:
The family described Juneau as their “favorite port of the entire cruise,” especially because the activities matched their stamina and interests perfectly.
This case study shows how even first-time visitors can enjoy the best places to visit in Juneau without feeling overwhelmed.
8. Things to Do in Juneau Alaska if You’re on a Cruise
If you’re arriving by cruise, you can still enjoy many top experiences:
Mendenhall Glacier
Mount Roberts Tramway
Downtown Juneau
Whale watching tours
Local shopping
These activities are located near port or offer cruise-friendly timing, making them perfect for short stays.
Final Thoughts
Juneau is a destination that blends adventure, nature, wildlife, and history in one beautiful package. Whether you’re hiking, sightseeing, watching whales, or simply taking in the Alaskan air, you’ll find unforgettable moments everywhere you go.
This list of things to do in Juneau Alaska is crafted from personal experiences, traveler stories, and expert insights—giving you a practical guide that adds value beyond generic travel blogs.
When you’re ready to plan your visit, use this guide to shape your itinerary and discover the magic of Juneau the way locals and seasoned travelers know it.
FAQs
What is the best month to visit Juneau Alaska?
June to August offers the best weather, wildlife viewing, and long daylight hours.
How many days do you need in Juneau?
Two to three days let you explore main sites, try local tours, and enjoy downtown.
Is Juneau Alaska expensive for tourists?
Juneau can be pricey, but budget options like free viewpoints and low-cost trails help.
Do you need a car to get around Juneau?
You don’t need a car. Shuttles, taxis, tours, and city buses cover main attractions.
Can you see the Northern Lights in Juneau?
Yes, but mostly in winter. Clear, dark nights increase your chances.
Travis Holloway is a friendly, outgoing person. He loves to explore the world and help people learn about it too! He recently went on a trip to Europe where he visited many different countries and cultures. One of his favorite places was Istanbul because it has so much history.
