Things To Do
in Juneau
Juneau is the capital city of Alaska, located in the southeastern region of the state. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, with towering mountains and sprawling glaciers surrounding the city. Juneau is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
The city is also home to cultural attractions such as the Alaska State Museum and historic downtown area.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Mendenhall Glacier, where you can hike the trails and view the stunning ice formations. Don't forget your camera for this incredible natural beauty!
Head to the Alaska State Museum to learn more about the history and culture of Alaska's indigenous peoples. The exhibits are both informative and engaging.
Finish your day with a relaxing dinner at a local seafood restaurant. Enjoy fresh Alaskan salmon while watching the sunset over the water.
Take a guided kayak tour through the tranquil waters of Auke Bay. Explore the coastline and be on the lookout for sea life such as otters and seals.
Visit the local shops and galleries in downtown Juneau. It’s a great way to pick up unique souvenirs and support local artisans.
Experience Juneau's nightlife at one of the cozy pubs. Enjoy a craft beer and live music to unwind after an adventurous day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery including mountains, forests, and waterways
- Rich cultural history and vibrant local arts scene
- Access to outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and whale watching
- Less crowded than many other tourist destinations
- Strong sense of community among residents
- Limited access to some services and amenities due to its remote location
- High cost of living and housing compared to other areas
- Harsh weather conditions, especially during the winter months
- Dependence on tourism, which can lead to economic instability
- Limited job opportunities in certain industries
Best Activities in Juneau
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Juneau offers numerous hiking trails with breathtaking views of glaciers, mountains, and forests. Popular trails include Mount Roberts, Perseverance Trail, and West Glacier Trail.
Visitors can partake in whale watching tours to observe humpback whales, orcas, and other marine life in the waters around Juneau.
Explore Juneau's iconic glaciers through guided tours, such as helicopter tours to the Juneau Icefield or boat tours to the Mendenhall Glacier.
Kayaking opportunities abound in Juneau, allowing visitors to paddle through scenic fjords, bays, and inlets while taking in the natural beauty and wildlife.
Tours
Uncover the best of Juneau with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Juneau
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the glacier and surrounding mountains, popular for photography and outdoor activities.
Provides panoramic views of Juneau and the Gastineau Channel from the top of Mount Roberts, great for photography and sightseeing.
Scenic views of Juneau, Mount Juneau, and Gastineau Channel from across the channel, offers beautiful sunset photo opportunities.
Food in Juneau
Juneau Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Known for its sweet, succulent meat, Alaskan king crab legs are a must-try. Visit Tracy's King Crab Shack for a true taste of this local delicacy.
Must-Try!
Indulge in the rich, smoky flavors of Alaskan smoked salmon, a regional specialty. Head to the Alaska Fish & Chips Company for a delectable serving.
For a unique Alaskan experience, try reindeer sausage. You can find this local treat at the Sandpiper Cafe.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Juneau better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Embark on a guided food tour with Juneau Food Tours to explore local street food and artisanal treats while learning about the rich culinary history of the city.
For an eclectic range of food options, visit Coppa, Juneau's premier food market. Here you can sample local snacks and explore a variety of gourmet offerings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Juneau, it is important to show respect for the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian cultures, which have a strong presence in the area. This includes being mindful of cultural traditions and engaging with indigenous art and events with respect and appreciation.
Juneau's natural environment is cherished by its residents, and visitors are expected to show responsible behavior when enjoying the outdoors. This includes respecting wildlife, properly disposing of waste, and following designated trails in protected areas.
The people of Juneau are known for their friendliness and hospitality. It is important to reciprocate this warmth by greeting locals with a friendly demeanor, showing appreciation for local customs, and being polite and courteous in interactions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Juneau with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Juneau
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is a common practice in Juneau, United States, and is typically expected in restaurants, bars, hotels, and for services such as tours and transportation. The standard tip amount is around 15-20% of the total bill.
Payment in Juneau, United States, is widely accepted in the form of cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment methods. Most businesses, including restaurants, shops, and attractions, accept major credit cards, but it's always good to have some cash on hand, especially for smaller vendors and tips.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Juneau.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Juneau, with mild temperatures and extended daylight hours. Popular for outdoor activities such as hiking, whale watching, and glacier tours.
Cooler temperatures with beautiful fall foliage, especially around the Mendenhall Glacier. A good time for hiking and wildlife viewing.
Cold and snowy weather, but ideal for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. Chance to see the Northern Lights on clear nights.
Milder temperatures, with the landscape coming to life as flowers bloom. Good for outdoor activities and exploring the area's natural beauty.
Juneau at Night
Hiking in Juneau
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking trail located just outside of downtown Juneau, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and water. The trail is approximately 3.5 miles one way and can be steep in some areas.
This trail provides a scenic route along the coastline with views of the Gastineau Channel. The hike is about 3 miles round trip and is great for spotting wildlife.
A less traveled trail that takes you through the lush rainforest and offers views of the canal. The trail is moderately challenging and about 2.5 miles in length.
A well-known trail leading to the breathtaking views of Mendenhall Glacier. The main trail is approximately 1.5 miles and connects to various other trails in the area.
This trail offers a beautiful walk that follows the Gold Creek and features serene forests and meadow areas. The hike is around 4 miles round trip.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Juneau through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Juneau by plane.
The main airport serving Juneau, Alaska, with limited international flights.
The largest airport in Alaska, located in Anchorage, offering numerous domestic and international flights.
A major international hub located in Seattle, Washington, providing extensive flight options worldwide.
An international airport located in Vancouver, Canada, known for its international flights to Asia and other regions.
The airport serving Fairbanks, Alaska, offering a range of domestic and some international flights.
One of the busiest international airports in the world, located in Atlanta, Georgia, with extensive global connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Juneau, encompassing individuals of European descent.
Indigenous peoples of Alaska, including various tribal groups.
Individuals with origins in the Far East, Southeast Asia, or the Indian subcontinent.
Individuals of Spanish or Latin American origin.
Individuals with origins in Africa or of African ancestry.
Individuals with origins in the Pacific Islands, including Hawaii.
Individuals who identify with two or more racial groups.
The Soul of Juneau
Discover the essence of Juneau through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport played indoors and outdoors, enjoyed by both youth and adults in Juneau.
Ice hockey is a significant sport in Juneau, with local teams and leagues fostering competitive play.
American football has a strong following, with high school teams competing during the fall season.
Soccer is widely played among youth and adults, with leagues and clubs offering recreational and competitive opportunities.
Baseball is favored during the summer months, with community leagues allowing participation for various age groups.
Running events, including marathons and half-marathons, draw athletes and fitness enthusiasts due to the scenic routes.
Given Juneau's coastal location, kayaking is a popular outdoor activity, both for recreation and adventure.
Fishing, especially salmon fishing, is not only a sport but also a vital part of local culture and economy.
During the winter months, cross-country skiing is a favored activity in Juneau, with trails suitable for various skill levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Juneau.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Restaurants like Saffron, known for its vegetarian-friendly menu, and V's Cellar Door offer delectable options for vegetarians and vegans.
Many eateries in Juneau, such as Salt and Coppa, accommodate gluten-free diets with their diverse and inclusive menus.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Juneau with these cultural adventures.