Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Juneau, surrounded by icy fjords, thick rainforests, and enormous mountains, is like nothing you will find anywhere else in Alaska. From glacier hikes to kayaking to whales swimming right next to you, the list of once-in-a-lifetime things to do in Juneau Alaska, will be long! It combines wild geography along with a deep-rooted cultural history, with a little bit of native Alaskan culture and a Gold Rush on top. And with Juneau being connected only by boat and plane, it makes it even more appealing to wild travellers looking for the next rush, or a nice relaxing view.
10 Things To Do In Juneau Alaska
There are many exciting things to do in Juneau Alaska, from glacier hiking, whale watching, to wildlife watching in a city full of fun.
1. Explore Mendenhall Glacier
The Mendenhall Glacier is a premier natural attraction located near Juneau. The glacier is over 13 miles in length and is approximately 12 miles from downtown. The glacier originates from the Juneau Icefield and flows into the beautiful Mendenhall Lake. There are several trails through the glacier area, each with varying degrees of difficulty. Notable options include the East Glacier Loop and the Nugget Falls Trail, which leads to a stunning waterfall formed by the glacier’s meltwater. The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Centre has informative exhibits discussing glacier formation, local wildlife, and the climate changes that impact the area.
Highlights: Glacier views, hiking trails, visitor centre, kayaking
Location: Mendenhall Valley, 12 miles from downtown Juneau
2. Ride The Mount Roberts Tramway
Photo: Quaritsch Photography / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The Mount Roberts Tramway in Juneau offers an effortless way to enjoy incredible views. Starting downtown, the tram climbs 1,800 feet to the summit in minutes. At the top, the Nature Centre features interactive exhibits on local wildlife and ecology. Trails of varying lengths lead to alpine meadows and scenic overlooks of Gastineau Channel. Popular for sunsets and wildlife sightings like mountain goats, the tramway also connects to the cultural heritage of the Tlingit nation. Whether you want a challenging hike or a relaxing coffee with a view, the Mount Roberts Tramway is a must-experience in Juneau.
Highlights: Scenic tram, mountain views, hiking, nature centre
Location: Downtown Juneau, near cruise ship docks
3. Visit The Alaska State Museum
Photo: Gillfoto / Wikimedia Commons
The Alaska State Museum, located in Juneau, provides a captivating experience that embraces the state’s diverse cultural background and natural history. Situated in the downtown core, the museum provides exhibits on Alaska Native cultures, early explorers, and the region’s unique wildlife. Visitors can view traditional art and crafts, along with carved pieces and historic artefacts that bring additional context to Alaska’s history. The museum’s displays also include work by contemporary Alaskan artists that highlight aspects of current life in the Last Frontier. The museum is centrally located and presents well-curated and accessible exhibits that enhance the visitor experience.
Highlights: Native culture, Alaskan history, rotating exhibits
Location: 395 Whittier Street, Juneau
4. Whale Watching Tours
Photo: Mike Doherty / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Whale watching tours are one of the top things to see in Juneau Alaska, and provide incredible opportunities to get close to giant animals in the Pacific Ocean. The migration of humpback whales ensures that from May to September, you will have chances to see spectacular breaches and tail slaps. On any of the tours, you may see orcas, sea lions, porpoises, or bald eagles. The tours depart from Juneau’s waterfront, offering options ranging from small boats to larger vessels to suit all preferences. The guides are experts and will educate you about the ecosystem to deepen your experience.
Highlights: Humpback whales, orcas, eagles, sea lions
Location: Juneau waterfront and Auke Bay
5. Discover The Last Chance Mining Museum
Photo: Drew Dempsey / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
One of the intriguing things to do in Juneau Alaska, is to visit the Last Chance Mining Museum, which gives you a taste of the city’s illustrious gold rush past. The museum is located in a historic waterfront building, and it has original mining equipment, mining tools, original displays, and interactive displays to assist Juneau’s early miners to be able to explaining their stories. The museum even offers you the chance to try your gold panning, and you can learn about the challenges and successes of the area’s prospectors.
Highlights: Gold rush artefacts, old mining gear, gold panning
Location: End of Basin Road, Juneau
6. Kayak In Auke Bay
Photo: Roman Pohorecki / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Kayaking in Auke Bay is one of the best activities to do in Juneau Alaska, for anyone seeking a peaceful yet adventurous way to spend time on the water. The only sounds you hear while paddling in the protected Auke Bay area are the sounds of nature, as you are surrounded by peaceful forests and often by seals, sea otters, and bald eagles. No matter if you are a novice or an expert at kayaking, guided tours usually provide you with all the equipment and safety instructions so that anyone can participate.
Highlights: Guided kayaking, calm waters, wildlife views
Location: Auke Bay, 14 miles north of downtown
7. Stroll Through Downtown Juneau
Photo: juergen-polle / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
A stroll in Downtown Juneau should likely be on your list of things to do in Juneau, Alaska. It’s a quaint mix of museums, local shops, art galleries, and places to eat, including plenty of fresh Alaskan seafood. Tourists and locals alike enjoy sites like the famous St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church, taking time to stop and shop for some unique, handcrafted souvenirs. The best thing about the downtown area is that it’s walkable! The downtown feels extra alive when the cruise ships are in town. You’ll find no shortage of coffee shops and places to grab a bite while soaking up the local culture.
Highlights: Shops, seafood, historic sites, walkable streets
Location: Downtown Juneau
8. Take A Glacier Helicopter Tour
Photo: Peter Wormstetter / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Helicopter glacier tours are an unforgettable adventure and a top choice for what to do in Juneau Alaska. These tours offer breathtaking views of glaciers, fjords, and snow-capped peaks, many of which are otherwise inaccessible. Some tours even land on remote glaciers, giving you the rare chance to walk on the ice and capture stunning photos. Pilots often share fascinating insights about the area’s geography and history. Operated mainly in summer when conditions are ideal, this thrilling experience is perfect for adventurous travelers looking to explore Alaska’s wild beauty from above.
Highlights: Aerial glacier views, optional landings, photo ops
Location: Juneau International Airport and heliports
9. Visit Shrine Of St. Therese
Photo: gillfoto / Wikimedia Commons
There are many peaceful activities in Juneau, Alaska. One to consider is a visit to the Shrine of St. Therese, a peaceful hilltop sanctuary overlooking the city and Gastineau Channel. The peaceful sanctuary features a serene garden, a quaint chapel, walking paths, and perfect spots to sit candidly and reflect quietly. The shrine offers expansive views and spectacular panoramas, making it a lovely stop for photographers as well as individuals wanting a spiritual retreat to reflect on life experiences and beliefs amidst nature. The Shrine of St. Therese is truly a purposeful visit and a meaningful experience of things to do in Juneau, Alaska.
Highlights: Chapel, ocean views, gardens, peaceful trails
Location: 22 miles north of downtown Juneau
10. Hike The Perseverance Trail
Photo: Joseph / Wikimedia Commons
Hiking the Perseverance Trail is a fulfilling outdoor activity and is one of the most beautiful things to do in Juneau for nature lovers. This moderate 6.2-mile trail is an old railroad bed traversing beautiful forests to a vantage point that has outstanding views of Gastineau Channel and the surrounding mountains. Along the way, it is possible to see eagles, deer, and occasionally bears. The trail is rich with history, as hikers will walk right past some of Juneau’s historic ruins and interpretive signs. The trail starts near Perseverance Road and is open year-round, but the best hiking conditions are in spring and summer.
Highlights: Forest hike, waterfalls, old mining ruins
Location: Trailhead at the end of Basin Road, Juneau
With so many amazing things to do in Juneau Alaska, it’s no wonder this city is a popular choice for wildlife lovers and adventurous people alike. From glaciers to whale watching to cultural museums, and every conceivable scenic trail, Juneau has something exciting and adventurous to do for all types of travellers. Book your trip today with TripXL and begin paving your ideal Alaskan adventure!
Cover Photo: Kalen Emsley / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
