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Juneau is one of those rare cities that feels both wild and welcoming at the same time. Surrounded by towering peaks and icy waters, it offers direct access to some of Alaska’s most stunning natural wonders. From the massive Mendenhall Glacier to humpback whales surfacing offshore, adventure is never far away. But Juneau isn’t only about the outdoors. It has rich cultural roots, Gold Rush history, and a vibrant local food scene. Whether you arrive by cruise ship or plane, these twelve experiences show why Juneau stands out as a destination worth exploring.
1. Mendenhall Glacier
No trip to Juneau is complete without visiting Mendenhall Glacier. This 13-mile-long ice sheet is one of the city’s most iconic attractions. Trails around the area offer stunning viewpoints, and Nugget Falls, a roaring waterfall nearby, makes the scene even more dramatic. The visitor center gives insight into glacial history and climate change. For a closer look, guided tours take you onto the glacier itself for trekking or ice climbing. It’s a powerful reminder of Alaska’s raw, changing landscape.
2. Whale Watching Tours
The waters around Juneau are some of the best in the world for whale watching. Between May and September, humpback whales gather here, and sightings are almost guaranteed. Watching a massive tail slap or a breach is unforgettable. Many tours also spot orcas, sea lions, and bald eagles along the way. Operators limit group sizes, so the experience feels intimate while respecting the animals. If you’re lucky, you might even witness bubble-net feeding, a rare cooperative hunting behavior.
3. Mount Roberts Tramway
For panoramic views of Juneau and the Gastineau Channel, ride the Mount Roberts Tramway. The cable car whisks you from the harbor up 1,800 feet in just a few minutes. At the top, you’ll find hiking trails, a nature center, and even a resident bald eagle recovering from injury. The views stretch across mountains and water, making it a perfect introduction to the area. It’s one of the easiest yet most rewarding ways to see Juneau’s stunning surroundings.
4. Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure
This attraction offers a different take on Juneau’s natural beauty. Glacier Gardens combines manicured botanical gardens with untouched rainforest. A guided tour takes you up the mountain in open vehicles, stopping at viewpoints overlooking the city and the channel. One highlight is the upside-down trees planted as flower towers, a quirky signature of the gardens. It’s a peaceful escape from the bustle of downtown and a great way to appreciate Alaska’s unique ecosystem.
5. Alaska State Museum
For a deep dive into Alaska’s history and culture, the Alaska State Museum is a must-visit. Exhibits cover everything from Native traditions to the Russian colonial era and the Gold Rush. Artifacts, multimedia displays, and rotating exhibitions bring the state’s diverse stories to life. The museum is small enough to explore in a few hours but packed with insight. It’s especially valuable on a rainy day when outdoor adventures might not be possible.
6. Tracy Arm Fjord
A day trip to Tracy Arm Fjord delivers scenery on a grand scale. The narrow fjord is lined with steep cliffs, waterfalls, and floating icebergs. At its end, the Sawyer Glaciers calve massive chunks of ice into the water with thunderous crashes. Boat tours offer the best way to explore, and wildlife sightings are common, including seals resting on ice floes. The combination of raw nature and dramatic landscapes makes this one of the most memorable excursions from Juneau.
7. Goldbelt Tram Hiking Trails
At the top of the Mount Roberts Tram, a network of trails lets you dive deeper into the wilderness. Routes range from short strolls to longer treks with panoramic views of Juneau, Lynn Canal, and the Chilkat Mountains. Wildflowers bloom in summer, and the chances of spotting wildlife like marmots or mountain goats are high. Hiking here feels remote despite being so close to the city, making it an easy way to experience Alaska’s backcountry without a multi-day expedition.
8. Juneau Icefield Helicopter Tour
For a bucket-list experience, consider a helicopter tour over the Juneau Icefield. The aerial perspective shows just how massive and otherworldly the glaciers really are. Many tours include a landing, giving you the chance to step onto pristine ice and explore crevasses up close. It’s an expensive outing but one travelers consistently call unforgettable. Flying above endless ice and mountains reminds you just how wild and vast this corner of Alaska is.
9. Alaska Brewing Company
Juneau is home to the famous Alaskan Brewing Company, known nationwide for its craft beers. A visit lets you taste limited-edition brews not available elsewhere and learn about the company’s history. The brewery also emphasizes sustainable practices, making it an interesting stop for eco-minded travelers. After days of exploring glaciers and mountains, relaxing with a locally brewed beer feels like a reward. It’s a fun way to connect with Juneau’s community spirit.
10. Shrine of St. Thérèse
This peaceful spot, located on a small island connected by a stone causeway, offers a quieter side of Juneau. The shrine is surrounded by gardens, trails, and coastal views that make it a serene retreat. Whether or not you’re religious, the beauty and tranquility here are undeniable. It’s also a prime location for spotting whales offshore or watching eagles soar overhead. Many travelers describe it as one of the city’s hidden gems.
11. Downtown Juneau
Wandering downtown Juneau reveals a mix of Gold Rush history and modern Alaska life. Colorful storefronts line the streets, offering everything from local crafts to fresh seafood. Murals and historic buildings give the area plenty of character. During summer, it’s busy with cruise ship visitors, but stepping off the main streets uncovers quieter corners and local favorites. It’s the best place to pick up souvenirs or just enjoy the town’s unique charm.
12. Dog Sledding Adventure
Dog sledding isn’t just a winter activity in Juneau. In summer, tours take you by helicopter to snowy areas of the Juneau Icefield, where trained huskies are eager to run. Meeting the dogs, learning from mushers, and riding across the ice make for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. It’s part cultural tradition, part adrenaline rush, and it connects you to Alaska’s heritage in a hands-on way. For many visitors, this becomes the highlight of their entire trip.