Juneau is home to some of the most majestic views in Alaska, incredible whale watching, along with tons of other activities. The scenic capital of Alaska is set among the islands of the Inside Passage and is a frequent stop for cruise ships. Known for its tree-covered mountains and blue waters, it has much to offer.
It is a gateway to some of Alaska’s best excursions, including visits to glaciers, forests, and a whole host of outdoor activities that capitalize on all the region has to offer. A vibrant city, it offers lots of shopping, galleries, cool distilleries, and plenty of places for mouthwatering Alaska seafood.
But if you are looking for something beyond nature, the city also provides lots to do in its walkable core, including plenty of activities that let you see the culture, history, food, rainy-day to-dos, and family-friendly activities.
Here are the best things to do while visiting the charming city of Juneau for the day on your Alaska cruise vacation.
1. Visit Mendenhall Glacier
There is no doubt that Mendenhall Glacier is one of the top attractions when visiting Juneau. For those arriving by cruise ship, it is among the most accessible glaciers in Alaska and ideal for a port day. It is an easy do-it-yourself excursion and a nice break from often expensive cruise line excursions; there are a few transportation options for the short journey from Juneau, such as bus or taxi.
Set in the protected area of Tongass National Forest, the glacier is part of the Juneau Icefield, which covers 1,500 square miles. Leftover from the last ice age, the area has incredibly diverse terrain encompassing waterfalls and forests. Several trails of varying lengths make it easy to explore for visitors of different activity levels. Once there, the visitor center is a good starting point for any trip as it has an indoor viewing center as well as several exhibits about the glacier and local environment.
2. Go whale watching
Juneau is one of the best places to go whale watching, especially in summer, as it is one of the main feeding grounds for orcas and humpbacks.
There are numerous tour boat operators in the area, even some that have naturalists on board to provide insight into the magnificent creatures. Some tours are so confident in their ability to scout out the creatures that they will give you money back if you don't see a whale during your outing. It is a good idea to check out the best excursion options prior to arriving.
3. Ride the Goldbelt Tram at Mount Roberts
To get a totally different perspective of Juneau and what many say is among the best views of the state capital, ride the Goldbelt Tram at Mount Roberts. Located close to the cruise port, it is an excellent way to see the stunning landscape of the area while in the city.
The tram stretches 1,800 feet above sea level, where guests are treated to panoramic views of the sea and nature while they listen to a narrated tour. At the top, there are hiking trails and a Nature Centre Center, as well as a number of places to see birds, including Bald Eagles.
4. Go dog sledding
A great family activity, dog sledding is one of Alaska's most famous modes of transportation and can be enjoyed even during cruises in the spring and summer.
It is an experience that is fun for the whole family. A typical outing allows visitors to learn about the canine creatures from a musher. A thrilling ride down a track led by a team of huskies is great fun. As a bonus, you get to spend time with the huskies afterward, and who doesn't love to cuddle a dog?
5. Tour a mine
The lands of Juneau were buzzing in the late 1800s when Joe Juneau, the city's namesake, came to the areas in search of this precious metal. Today, visitors can try their hand at the Juneau Underground Peterson Mine, where a guide will take guests on a tour of the underground mine with the opportunity to search for gold.
There are other locations as well, such as the Alaska Gastineau Mill, which was a revolutionary plant that introduced new technologies to the mining industry. Guests can take guided tours of the Gastineu Channel below and see displays of old equipment.
6. Head to the skies
A helicopter tour is one of the most spectacular ways to take in the breathtaking views of Juneau. Among the most popular choices is a tour of the Mendenhall Glacier, with an added bonus of a glacial walk for those who are feeling adventurous.
These are definitely once and a lifetime, bucket list-type activities in a place that is unparalleled in its natural beauty. But this type of dreamy activity is a splurge and something to research ahead of time. While there are several options for such a tour, guests should expect to pay several hundred dollars per person for this kind of adventure.
7. Kayak with whales
There are many great places to kayak around Juneau, including the stunning Mendenhall Glacier. It is the perfect spot to take in the breathtaking scenery and see some wildlife like eagles and other inhabitants of the local wetlands.
Another option for those who like to paddle is to head out on the ocean, where you can go kayaking with whales. A tour boat takes you to the Inside Passage to rich feeding grounds for whales. Once there, a small guided group heads out on the water in kayaks to be among the whales.
8. Indulge in crab
Sweet, juicy crab is synonymous with Alaska, and Juneau is one of the best places to try this local delicacy. Famed eatery Tracy’s King Crab Shack is a casual spot that has a crab-focused menu. Options range from soup to sandwiches, daily specials, and, of course, crab legs. Patrons can choose from Red King, Snow, or Dungeness crab, along with some tasty sides.
You can’t miss its location on the waterfront, highly visible due to its signature red and white colors. It showcases one of the region's most famous products, but it isn’t cheap. So come hungry, and bring the bucks.
9. Take a boat tour of Tracy Arm Fjord
This excursion requires a little more planning but is well worth the visit. The famous fjord showcases the area's stunning wilderness and dramatic views of 3000-foot cliffs that guard the narrow waterway. It is also a good place to see some of Alaska’s prized animal life, such as whales, eagles, and bears.
Only a half-mile wide, it provides close-up views of the area once covered by glaciers. Known for its brilliant blue waters, visitors can see the ice breaking off (calving) and glaciers reforming as chunks of ice fall off into the waters below, making for a stunning aquatic show.
10. Try some local beer
Alaska is not just about its seafood; it also has a burgeoning beverage scene, and Juneau has some first-rate establishments that showcase what northern craft breweries have to offer. One of the top spots is The Alaskan Brewery and Bottling Company, which offers free tours and beer tasting. Visitors love the quaint location and wide selection, with 20 beers on tap daily. Inspired by local flavors like spruce tips, alder wood, and, of course, pure glacial waters, they have some unique brews.
How about some Husky IPA, Icy Bay IPA, or Pilot Series? There is something for all beer lovers. They even have food trucks in the parking lot who want some savory snacks with their beer.
11. Zipline through a rainforest
Perhaps surprisingly, to some, Alaska has its own rainforest; although it is temperate, it provides tons of lush vegetation and is the perfect backdrop for some Alaska zip-lining adventures while visiting for the day on your cruise.
Spots like Eaglecrest Ski Area offer visitors the opportunity to glide among the treetops along five zipline routes. Part of the journey includes making your way across a rushing stream via a suspension bridge, with a little axe throwing to top off a day of fun in nature. It is the perfect excursion for those who enjoy nature and thrill rides.
12. Explore Juneau on foot
A leisurely walking tour is a fantastic way to explore this port city, and doing it on your own can be a relaxing way to spend the day. There are a number of apps that you can use to download maps and pictures that provide narration about the points of interest. A fantastic option for those who like to go at their own pace and see where it leads them.
To get an even better experience, consider a guided tour with a local resident who can take you to the off the beaten path spots, those special gems that only the local Juneauites (yes, that's what residents are called) know about.
13. Tour a lighthouse
Coastal regions are famous for their signature lighthouses, and Juneau is no different. Juneau’s famed Sentinel Lighthouse is located at the entrance of Favorite Channel, west of Juneau. Having been built in the 1930s, it replaced an older structure with an updated concrete design in an Art Deco style, very different from the rounded lighthouses of the East Coast.
Visitors can enjoy daily tours and walk along the boardwalk, enjoying the lush vegetation of the island. This is often a stop on whale watching tours, a peaceful break while visiting Juneau.
14. Check out the local art scene
Juneau isn’t just about nature, mountains, and glaciers; it also has a dynamic art scene, including plenty of sculpture, statues, and street art inspired by these rustic surroundings and the region's rich history. One of the highlights is a life-sized whale sculpture at Overstreet Park. The giant replica was crafted to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Alaska's statehood (in 2009).
Another local favorite is the statue of Patsy Ann, an English bull terrier who lived on the docks and greeted ships coming in and out of the dock. The much-loved dog has been immortalized, and the statue's nose is well polished from visitors who touch her nose for good luck. Also, check out the Juneau Artists Gallery and the Empty Chair Memorial, a memorial to the Japanese Americans who were interned at the start of World War Two.
15. Charter a boat for the day
Whether part of a group tour or you want to splurge and rent your own, heading out on the water provides exceptional views of Juneau, along with the chance to see some marine life, such as whales. For those who want the ultimate day on the sea, spring for a private boat tour, make your itinerary, and relax without the crowds of the typical cruise ship tour.
Local operators also have a land-and-see package, where you can do a half day on a boat while visiting some attractions onshore first to see the most during your day.
16. Go fishing
Speaking of boats, Juneau is a great place to go fishing with both saltwater and freshwater options. A variety of salmon species, halibut, sea bass, and snapper inhabit the coastal waters and the lakes of the region.
Given its location, there are tons of day options for a fishing tour with lots of local operators. Although you may not be able to bring any prized catches back on the ship, it can be a great way to spend the day in Juneau.
17. Relax at Glacier Gardens
Easy accessible by taxi or Uber, Glacier Gardens is a lush rainforest, probably a surprising attraction for those cruising to Alaska, and is among one of the top attractions when visiting Juneau on a cruise.
Located in the Tongass National Forest, Glacier Gardens is a vibrant Alaskan botanical garden paradise nestled in a temperate rainforest habitat. It also provides some of the best views of Juneau at 580 feet above sea level. Visitors enjoy guided tours of the forest and all its incredible flora and fauna, including a number of manicured gardens.
18. Spy on some bears
Another famous Alaska native, bears (black and brown, not white), are a big draw for guests visiting the area. They can be seen in August and September, especially at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center. The main attraction is the black bear population, mostly mothers and cubs.
This spot offers some of the safest and most accessible to see bear’s bear-viewing you're likely to find anywhere. An excellent add-on activity while touring the impressive Mendenhall Glacier.
19. Partake in a salmon bake
One of the best-known fish from Alaska, salmon is a widely popular meal that many of us have at home. But that’s nothing compared to having salmon baked on an open wood fire in the majestic surroundings of Alaska.
With a side of beans and other favorites, it can make for a tasty snack in an incredible setting. Accompanied by a blueberry dessert, another famous Alaska product can make for a spectacular meal.
20. Visit a salmon hatchery
While on the subject of salmon, for those who are interested in learning more about the prized fish, DIPAC’s Macaulay Salmon Hatchery provides this opportunity to see salmon up close.
Learn all about the salmon life cycle and how they grow. Some lucky visitors may even see them jump and get a chance to get up and close at the touch tank. Outdoors, curious onlookers, including Blad Eagles and seals, can often be seen nearby.
21. Explore on a segway
A great way to see more in your time in Juneau is by riding a segway, a fun twist on a traditional tour. There are numerous excursion companies that offer small group tours to a number of locations throughout the Juneau area.
Some of the best rides include exploration of coastal sites of the area, which are fantastic for photography as well as wilderness tours, with lots of terrain suitable for this mode of transportation.
22. Visit the Alaska State Museum
Located centrally in downtown Juneau, this museum is a fantastic place to learn about Junean and Alaska, including its history, culture, art, and other things that make it so special.
It has everything from prized possessions from the Russian colonial era (which lasted 126 years) to artifacts from Tlingit and other Norwest people who first inhabited the region. It is an ideal rainy day activity, family-friendly, or for those who want to understand more about of Juneau.
23. Check out the thriving Filipino food scene
Probably surprising to many, but Juneau is home to a thriving Filipino food scene. You can enjoy a nice sit-down meal at the legendary Golddigger Filipino Restaurant or try one of the local food carts.
The influx of Filipino immigrants started as far back as the 1700s, with significant immigration in the early 1900s, becoming part of the rich history of Alaska. Today, visitors can expect to get classics like adobo, with added Alaska favorites like salmon and local seafood, making for some tasty new twists on old classics.
24. Embark on a scavenger hunt
This can be a great way to get to know the city while having lots of fun. Apps like Let’s Roam have predesigned scavenger hunts for tons of cities, including Juneau. Expert writers and on-the-ground adventurers help to create these hunts with must-sees and hidden secrets in cities worldwide.
As part of the scavenger hunt, your team will walk around the city, making discoveries and earning points for every challenge you complete. Along the route, you’ll solve riddles, answer trivia, learn fun facts, and conquer challenges. It is a way to make memories, as every scavenger hunt tour has hilarious photo-worthy moments and “must-capture” sights.
25. Have a shot at a historic saloon
Certainly one of the town’s most iconic spots, the Red Dog Saloon is a can’t-miss watering hole when visiting Juneau. It has tons of pub-style favorites like pizza, burgers, and, of course, fish - it is Alaska, after all. Many come for their adult beverage options, including beers on tap and their famous Glacier Margarita and Duck Fart drinks.
It was first opened during the heyday of mining and certainly has lots of history. It is hard not to miss with its bright red paint and central location. Although kids are welcome, it is definitely a more adult-focused place, and parents may want to skip this with younger children.
26. Take a bike tour
Work off of those cruise calories by exploring Juneau on a bike tour. The green spaces throughout Juneau are ideal for scenic rides. Some visitors head to Mendenhall Glacier and its many trails that make for a day of incredible sightseeing.
In the city itself, there are so many ways to explore the city by bike. There are numerous operators, and some of the cruise lines have bike and beer excursions for a nice balance between indulgence, exercise, and sightseeing. For those who like a little more leisurely ride, e-bikes are also an option.
27. Spend a day on the river
Another way to experience the great outdoors in Juneau is the thrill of river rafting. This is a great way to see another side of Alaska with epic water views. For those who want a less turbulent ride, there are some calm rivers, ideal for families who still want to spend the day on the water.
Tours are available from the cruise ship pier to the Mendenhall Valley for the start of the 6-mile float among the lush forest, wildlife, and mountains of the area. The calm waters make for a rafting tour that is suitable for all ages.
28. Go for a hike
With so much wilderness and beauty around Juneau, hiking is a fantastic way to see all its beauty. In fact, the city boasts more than 250 hiking trails, so you will be sure to find the right one for your day in port.
Perseverance National Recreation Trail can be accessed from downtown Juneau and is a 3 3-mile, moderate trail that passes old train lines and mine shafts for some exciting views. For those heading to Mendenhall Glacier, there is the East Glacier Loop Trail that stretches 3.5 miles along Mendenhall Lake.
29. Visit the Tongass National Forest
The Tongass National Forest covers an impressive 17 million acres and is the largest national forest in the United States, and can be accessed by a number of locations.
While visiting Juneau, most visitors head to the forest and its surrounds the Mendenhall Glacier. In addition to the prized glacier, there are numerous trails to explore the forest. The visitor center offers a wide range of activities, including watching spawning salmon and, along Steep Creek, spotting mountain goats from the center’s observatory. It is an excellent, family-friendly activity for those who may not want to hike on the glacier.
30. Find your zen at the National Shrine of St.Therese
A beautiful, tranquil place, this spot draws many visitors who want to see its postcard-worthy grounds and chapel. It has been open for 80 years, welcoming guests to this peaceful area. While it is a little out of the way from Juneau (22 miles to be exact), it is incredibly well-rated among guests for its serene atmosphere, a place of peace and solitude.
For those who are renting a car for a day or heading out on their own exploration, this is a top destination to see.
31. Head back in time at the Juneau Douglas Museum
A great add-on to a tour of Juneau, this museum is a smaller space that can be part of an afternoon stroll. The General History Gallery focuses on the early prospectors who staked their claim to the area during the apex of the Klondike Gold Rush, a part of Alaska’s past that shaped so much of what it is today.
It is also well suited to families thanks to its interactive activities - kids get the chance to dress up like miners from the past. Another bonus is that the museum has a number of rotating exhibitions by local artists and artisans.
32. Get lost at Nugget Falls
Who doesn’t love a beautiful waterfall? Well, Nugget Falls (or Mendenhall Glacier Falls as it is also known) is just that. A wonderful way to spend the day in Juneau, Alaska.
This stunning waterfall is located in Mendenhall Valley and is almost 400 feet high, providing some of the most idyllic views around. This is a great add-on trip while visiting Mendenhall Glacier, which is nearby and can easily be reached by a walking trail.
33. Tour a distillery
For those wanting something a little stronger than beer, Juneau also has its own distilleries, including the Amalga Distillery, which is well-known for its spirits - vodka, gin, and whiskey.
The distillery offers guided tours where you can explore the facility, learn about the distilling techniques employed, and interact with knowledgeable staff who are happy to share their passion for spirits. Tastings are often available (sorry, kids!)
34. Learn about Alaska’s heritage at Sealaska
History lovers and those who want to learn even more about the rich heritage of Junea should head to the Sealaska Heritage Institute, located in the Walter Soboleff Building. This cultural and research center is dedicated to the sharing and study and sharing of the cultures of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian cultures of Southeast Alaska.
While the building itself is considered a work of art in its own right, the building showcases numerous art demonstrations, exhibits, and large-scale works. Each tribe is represented in the art of the heritage center, with plenty of opportunities to learn about each of them.
35. See the State Capitol
Set among the colorful buildings of this coastal town is the more formal Alaska State Capitol building. As the seat of the government, it houses the offices of the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and the State Legislature. But the building itself is a landmark thanks to its architecture, featuring elements of both neoclassical and Art Deco styles.
It has beautiful views of the surrounding mountains, waterways, and downtown Juneau. You can also explore the building’s public areas, which often include exhibits and displays about Alaska’s history, government, and culture. You may even have the chance to observe legislative proceedings from designated viewing areas when the legislature is in session.
36. Drop by St.Nicholas Orthodox Church
A building that truly reflects the diverse heritage of Juneau, St. Nicholas Orthodox Church was founded in 1893 at the request of the local Tlingit community but was built along with Serbian miners, partly funded by donations from Russia.
An easy-to-see landmark inside the church, visitors can read through information on the church’s history, which reflects the varied past of the area. It is a perfect place to drop in while doing a walking tour/ exploring the city.
37. Tour the Jensen-Olson Arboretum
A great way to explore nature without hiking is a visit to the Jensen-Olson Arboretum. Run as a non-profit, the arboretum seeks to educate and showcase the incredible vegetation of Juneau. It is considered a garden destination and living laboratory with over 1200 species of plants, with interpretive signage to guide visitors.
In addition to its educational focus, it is simply a beautiful spot to visit. The gardens provide an incredibly serene setting with stunning views. There are plenty of benches to sit and take in the beauty of the area and the opportunity to walk along the seashore.
38. Take a peak at the Governor’s Mansion
For a nice walk, head up to see where the governor lives. While there are no official tours, it is easy to walk by the classically styled, cream-colored home, which has become a bit place of interest for tourists in Juneau.
Set among other prominent houses in the area, the estate was built in 1913 and has 26 rooms and eight fireplaces, useful to have in cold Alaska winters. It has now become a tourist attraction, with bus tours even stopping by. While impressive, many note that it is not overly grandiose, and some lucky onlookers have even gotten a wave from the Governor.
39. Try some local tea
There is a lot of talk about Juneau’s cool craft beers and distilleries, but there are some great hot options at Harbor Tea & Spice, located in downtown Juneau.
Alaska also offers a twist on one of the world's most popular drinks – tea. Harbor Tea & Spice offers unique gifts with an Alaskan flare. We have custom tea and spice blends that are displayed in a variety of gift packs to make the perfect souvenir, such as their Ice Cave Blue Tea.
40. Pan for gold
Juneau’s namesake, Joe Juneau, found gold while panning in Last Chance Basin in what is now called Gold Creek. One of the more unusual activities in Juneau is a tour that will take you to this historic spot and teach you to pan for gold like a prospector, a fun family activity.
While modern-day prospectors don't find those million-dollar nuggets anymore, you’ll still find tiny flecks of gold. A knowledgeable tour guide will dress like a gruff old miner, helping make the adventure a memorable day.
41. Shop for souvenirs
Before you head back to your cruise ship at the end of a great day in port, Juneau is a fantastic place to pick up some souvenirs, with plenty of handmade items that are unique to the area. Among the many shops that dot the downtown area of Juneau, pop into the Senate Mall, where the stores are locally owned and offer one-of-a-kind items such as authentic native carvings.
Another go-to is the Alaska Fudge Co., which features handmade fudge, truffles, and candies. They even sell packaged salmon to bring back home.
