Juneau, Alaska is a beautiful place to visit during the summer months. With its stunning natural beauty, unique wildlife, and incredible outdoor activities, Juneau is sure to be an unforgettable vacation destination. From whale watching and hiking in the Tongass National Forest to exploring the Mendenhall Glacier and experiencing the culture of downtown Juneau, there is something for everyone in this incredible city. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed adventure, there are plenty of things to do in Juneau Alaska!
Things to do in Juneau Alaska
Explore Mendenhall Glacier
Mendenhall is one of the most stunning easily accessible glaciers in North America, just 13 miles from downtown Juneau and just a few minutes away from the nearest airport. It’s an absolute must-see for anyone planning an Alaska trip. You’ll be amazed by the amount of Ice! With a half-mile of width and an ice depth of up to 1.800 feet thick, it’s no surprise that Juneau is the most visited location. If you’re visiting for a few hours or a week, you have plenty of ways to explore the glacier.
If you’re on a strict timetable, a visit to Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center is a must. Mendenhall Glacier Visitors Center is a must. It provides interesting information and stunning views of the ever-changing amazing wonder. If you’re there, make sure to view a short documentary about the Mendenhall area as part of the 1500-square-mile Juneau Icefield. Make a quick trek along the Photo Point Trail to a viewpoint for unobstructed views of the glacier’s cliffs and an ideal photograph chance. You can complete the entire trek within 90 minutes.
Hiking Trails
If you are able to dedicate at least half a day there are a variety of ways to be able to see the majestic glacier. You can enjoy the trails that follow the terrain, including an easy, well-marked trail that leads up to Nugget Falls. It runs through Mendenhall Lake, the closest trail to the glacier there is a breathtaking 377-foot waterfall that cascades into an iceberg lake, with stunning glaciers as a backdrop Another stunning photograph chance.
From July to September, stroll along the boardwalks and platforms through Steep the Creek Trail close to the Visitors Center. Here you’ll see sockeye Salmon spawning and swimming as well as occasional black bears looking for food. (No worries, bears don’t climb onto these platforms.)
The Trail of Time highlights the power and the long-term effects that the glacier’s presence is having on the surrounding ecosystem. When you leave the glacier, you will see changes in the landscape and the vegetation that is in line with the amount of time that has passed since the glacier’s disappearance.
If you have more time you can choose from a variety of other options. The most difficult of them, called that is the East Glacier Loop is a trail that winds through old forests to view a waterfall close to the glacier’s edge. The hike (2-3 hours) isn’t the most inclined but is an ideal adventure for kids of school age. For more experienced hikers, try taking the West Glacier Trail, which runs along the edge of the glacier and lake and provides access to the ice.
Kayaking
For a different type of adventure, try kayaking in Mendenhall Lake and enjoy paddling in the vicinity of icebergs as well as the nesting cliffs of the Arctic. Kayaks and kayaks can be rented at the Alaska Boat & Kayak Center. Because of the freezing cold temperature in the lake, it is only advised for those who are fit and have previous experience in kayaking. For those who haven’t experienced kayakers, there are guided canoe trips available through a variety of cruise companies.
Guided Tours and Charters
The Mendenhall Glacier is full of opportunities to perform on your own, but there are plenty of exciting tour operators which can help you make maximum enjoyment out of your time at the glacier. You could consider a cruise that incorporates a visit to the glacier along with an excursion to watch whales in Auke Bay, for example.
There are numerous helicopter tours offering breathtaking aerial views of Ice crevasses, deep blue spires melting pools, and ice spires. The helicopter tours are based at the glacier’s location and provide everything from guided ice-walking to dog-sledding. For those who are on most adventurous tours, the guided hikes will take you to the glacier’s surface, and then into the stunning caves of ice. (Exploring the caves on your own without the guidance of a professional is dangerous as the constantly changing glacier’s form can lead to them becoming dangerous.)
When to Visit
Although it is true that the Mendenhall Glacier is accessible all throughout the year, the most ideal moment to see it is from May to October. July is hot, but it’s best to research the weather conditions to determine the need for rain gear. It’s worth it. Mendenhall Glacier is great in any condition. If it’s sunny it’s stunning with clear blue skies and mountains covered in snow on the horizon. If it’s cloudy it’s even more spectacular when the ice changes to an intense and mysterious color of blue.
White Whale Watching
If you’re looking for whales and you’re going to be able to. The most ideal time to observe is between April and November when about 600 humpbacks live in these waters that are part of the northern Inside Passage. The whale watching tour is available during Juneau and close to Glacier Bay. Every day boat trips from Tracy Arm rarely return without whale sightings, and you’ll typically see many whales in one trip.
The killer whale, also known as orca whales, are also found in the waters close to Juneau. But, unlike us, Shamu isn’t a slam dunk as he does on the other side of Sea World. Although these whales are smaller than humpbacks, are recognized for their pursuit of seals, moose as well as other whales.
Juneau is among the top places to go for whale-watching tours in Alaska. Combine your cruise with the visit to the Mendenhall Glacier for double the excitement. The tour operators of Juneau promise you to get to see whales, and you will!
The abundant oceans of the Gulf of Alaska provide humpback whales with an opportunity to eat a lot in the summer months prior to returning to Hawaii in the autumn.
If you’re heading to Alaska via cruise ship seeing whales from your balcony in your stateroom is not uncommon. The ships do sail through the deepest regions of the channels, while whales generally move close to the coast.
Charter a Ride to Tracy Arm Fjord
Tracy Arm, a classic Fjord, has everything high-altitude glaciers and tidewater stunning mountains, as well as the sheer rock walls that go upwards of a mile with waterfalls falling down to the green emerald waters, and the largest Icebergs.
Be on the lookout for bears, whales, and mountain goats as well as numerous harbor seals and many species of birds, including the eagle, arctic terns kittiwakes, and pigeon guillemots.
Our boats are solid, smooth-riding ocean-going hulls to ensure the most enjoyable cruise experience through Tracy Arm and Sawyer Glacier. A fully-decked walk-around deck as well as big cabin windows provide uninterrupted views and excellent photography opportunities. The personal attention you receive is unparalleled.
Explore Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure
Hidden in this green Tongass National Forest, discover an Alaskan botanical garden that is unlike any elsewhere in the world. 2012. Reader’s Digest poll chose Glacier Gardens from many entries to be the most interesting landmark in America! Beautiful hanging gardens spill over 15-foot tall, upside-down trees “Flower Towers” and elegantly designed landscapes enhance nature’s beauty. Take a look at these gardens in a unique way with a guide in an enclosed vehicle. Then, explore 50 acres of rainforest. The tour you choose will give you the best access to Tongass the largest National Forest in the US. This tour is an excellent option to experience the rainforest and offers breathtaking panoramas of Juneau.
The sprawling gardens were created by Steve as well as Cindy Bowhay, former local commercial fishermen and master gardeners who bought the property in the hopes of completing the purpose of stream rehabilitation. The project was given a form of its own and they’ve created a trail that covers 2 miles of their own designed and constructed botanical gardens.
On your one-hour journey in the woods, an knowledgeable guide will answer any questions you may have and assist you in identifying the amazing aspects of the rugged and harsh Tongass habitat. Discover the massive hemlock and spruce trees as well as the difficult Devil’s Club plant. At the 600-foot point on Thunder Mountain, there is a quick walk to an incredible viewpoint on the cliffside. This is where the dense forest is replaced by an expansive view of Juneau and Mendenhall Valley, Douglas Island Mendenhall Valley, Gastineau Channel, Douglas Island, and the Chilkat Mountains.
Go back to the Visitors’ Center atrium following your visit and pick up an alcoholic beverage or some souvenirs such as wildflower seed packets Be sure to check out their live stream of a bald eagle in the area of the gardens.
Highlights
- Unique botanical gardens, with landscaped grounds
- Vehicle access is simple and easy. trails in the Tongass rainforest
- Panorama views of Juneau
- Viewing wildlife on”Eagle’s Nest Cam “Eagle’s Nest Cam”
- Discover the natural background of the temperate rainforest
The Alaska State Museum
The Alaska State Museum is an excellent way to learn about the rich history, art as well as culture, and history of different regions in Alaska by taking in vast permanent exhibits, complemented through seasonal changes in exhibits. Museum admission during winter months is $9 for those aged 19-64 years old. age. Those aged 65 and over pay $8, and youngsters (18 and younger) are admitted for free. It is at 395 Whittier Street., Juneau, AK 99801.
They are open from Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am to 4:00 night.
For groups that exceed 10 people, we recommend calling to make an appointment. If not visitors are welcome to come in for a visit.
If you’re interested in purchasing an Annual Pass, the price is $40 per calendar year pass per person. It is available from the Alaska State Museum Visitor Services Front Desk.
Best Restaurants in Juneau Alaska
Deckhand Dave’s
In the restaurant Deckhand Dave’s Fish Tacos, customers can have delicious crepes, fruitcakes, and Ice cream. Go to this restaurant and try excellent draft beers, wines, or cider. Find great lattes.
It’s easy to locate this establishment due to the fantastic place. The skilled staff work hard and is positive, which makes the atmosphere awe-inspiring. The friendly service is the main draw for this location. You will pay the average costs. The guests at this restaurant are able to take in the amazing setting and gorgeous interior.
Deckhand Dave’s serves Salmon, Halibut, Rockfish tacos as well as fish and chips, and much more! The company is owned and operated by a retired commercial fishing captain. Our tables and trailers are decorated with pictures of authentic commercial fishing boats from Alaska!
Deckhand Dave’s Wild Alaskan Fish Taco is situated in the heart of downtown Juneau inside the state’s 1st Food Truck Park!
Alaskan Crepe Escape
Food truck located in the middle of downtown Juneau which sells sweet and sweet crepes, coffee, and smoothies.
Red Spruce
Chef Lionel Uddipa has carved Red Spruce from a long-running career of culinary adventure with a diverse palette and a love of the hometown. As a third-generation chef, Lionel had a run-in with the law through his family’s diner. As a dishwasher and then he learned every now and then the skills needed to create an enviable career as a chef. He claims that it’s not because he was forced to choose however, the fact is that he “never wanted to do anything else.” After having earned a half degree in Social Work He dropped out of school and went straight to culinary school.
Salt
Established in 2015. SALT is a restaurant in Juneau serving fresh Alaskan food. Always evolving, our menus take advantage of fresh Alaskan seafood as well as butcher-cut steaks and local ingredients offering the most varied and delicious meals from Southeast Alaska. With the largest wine selection in Juneau, the selection we offer is a representation of regions across the globe. In the bottle or by glasses, it’s bound that there’s a perfect match to suit your taste. If scotch is something you prefer, we have more than 20 different options. Special Occasion or Private Meeting? Choose one of our three private dining rooms and let us help make the occasion memorable.
Sandpiper Cafe
Owner/Operators Doug Arends & Peter Boliver began their business together in downtown Juneau, AK with the first Sandpiper Cafe. There are vegan and meat choices are also available. There are two vegan-friendly dishes French toast made of pecans that are vegan or tofu scramble.
Best Places to Stay in Juneau Alaska
Pearson’s Pond Luxury Inn & Spa
The suites are located in Juneau, Alaska our decentralized large, luxurious, and deluxe 2 and 1-bedroom suites are away from crowds of cruise ships in two of Juneau’s most sought-after locations The Mendenhall Valley (2-bedrooms) and Douglas Island (1-bedrooms). Each of our suites comes with fully-equipped kitchens and private entrances.
They also have two bathrooms, and luxurious bathroom amenities such as coffee makers, fireplaces, and much more. The full Alaska concierge and trip planning assistance are included. Cleaning and shopping are available at an additional cost. The stunning, two-bedroom luxurious suite comes with an outside garden with a private hot tub, barbecue, and more.
The kitchen is fully equipped with two bathrooms; two eco-friendly fireplaces; a king Sleep Number bed, sleep number queen bed, and an extra queen sleeper sofa in the living space; 3 smart TVs, high-end cable, wi-fi, and a private entrance. There are laundry facilities and access to a beautiful patio with a fireplace as well as a sitting area. The two suites have been updated.
The second suite, which has two bedrooms, is ideal for small families seeking separate sleeping areas and living space, a full utilitarian kitchen as well a sleep Number queen bedroom, the Sleep Number twin bedrooms (2 twin beds),s as well as access to a beautiful outdoor lanai, bikes, and a barbecue. If you’d like the space, you can book each suite, and enjoy the whole house for your family of up to 10 people.
The property is located on Douglas Island, just a short drive of 5 minutes through the bridge that connects downtown Juneau The 1-bedroom condos are surrounded by a spectacular panorama of Mt. Roberts and can be a great spot to watch the cruise ships go and come along the Gastineau Channel from every room as well as from the balcony. A private, fully-equipped kitchen along with a bathroom and laundry room are waiting for you. All units have been upgraded so make sure you look through the pictures.
Best Western Grandma’s Feather Bed
The Juneau, AK hotel offers amazing historic charm, welcoming service, and amazing amenities and is close to numerous famous local tourist attractions.
The warm, non-smoking rooms at this breakfast and bed provide the feeling of a home that is far away. The luxurious suites are a delight and come with high-quality queen feather beds in-room whirlpools and room service, as well as cable satellite TV with the HBO(r) movies channel. There’s also a fridge with a microwave, complimentary high-speed internet, and more. Many guests have had the pleasure of spending their honeymoon or anniversary at this charming Juneau, Alaska hotel.
The Juneau hotel also provides a 24-hour courtesy shuttle service to airports, guest laundry, and a smoke-free atmosphere. Hotel guests staying at this Juneau breakfast and bed hotel can begin their day in the right way with a free hot breakfast. Grandma’s Restaurant is also on-site serving a wide selection of traditional dishes. Free guest passes to the gym in town are also offered.
When you stay at this Juneau hotel, you can enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Mendenhall Glacier, the Mendenhall Glacier, the Auke Bay recreational area, the Perseverance Trail, the Tracy Arm Glacier, and Glacier Bay. In Juneau, bed and breakfast guests will be able to create a memorable stay and be restful by skis at Eaglecrest and walking on the scenic trails that are nearby as well as playing golf at Mendenhall Golf Course. Mendenhall Golf Course and fishing at Auke Bay. Shopping centers of major importance are also situated within a quarter mile from Juneau Hotel. Juneau, Alaska hotel.
Eight miles away from the State Capitol, these Juneau hotel rooms are near numerous places of business and government offices. People who attend the University of Alaska, Southeast just a few minutes from the Juneau, Alaska hotel. The Juneau International Airport as well as the Alaska Marine Highway ferry terminal are also within a short distance.
Silverbow Inn
Silverbow Inn is a unique Juneau lodging experience and a nice change of pace from typical hotels. With 13 inviting guest rooms, and 3 brand new suites, our Juneau accommodations are unmatched. Enjoy all the comforts of home and the amenities of a traditional hotel at our boutique inn. Our accommodations are fitting for a romantic getaway, business trip, or family vacation. Choose from rooms with either king, queen, or twin beds. Our Juneau hotel features many amenities to make your stay comfortable
Four Points by Sheraton Juneau
The only hotel in the city that is branded, Four Points by Sheraton Juneau provides style and comfort located in downtown’s historic area. Enjoy a relaxing getaway in spacious rooms with modern facilities, complimentary Wi-Fi luxurious bedding, and stunning views of the ocean. Enjoy the Golden Square Mile within moments of restaurants, shops, and museums as well as famous sites which include America’s only glacier that is within the city boundaries.
You can watch your favorite team play live at McGivney’s Sports Bar and Grill offering delicious American food and a variety of beers available on the tap. After a long day of sightseeing or shopping take a break and refuel your body at our contemporary, 24 hours-a-day fitness center that features cardiovascular equipment as well as free weights. The most sought-after Juneau hotel in the Centennial Hall Convention Center, our modern hotel is close to The Seadrome Marina and the waterfront.
Frontier Suites Airport Hotel
Within the Mendenhall Valley, near the stunning Mendenhall Glacier, the beautiful recently restored Frontier Suites Hotel in Juneau Alaska provides an array of amenities for all ages no matter if you’re visiting for business, leisure, or extended stays The friendly and knowledgeable staff will meet your requirements. We offer a wide range of non-smoking, comfortable rooms and suites, each with fully equipped kitchens, a shuttle service to the Airport and back, a fitness center along with a business center, and many other amenities that will ensure your stay is unforgettable!
