Juneau, Alaska
What to do in Juneau, Alaska Cruise Port
Juneau, Alaska is known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the area's glaciers, mountains, and forests, as well as its many rivers, lakes, and streams. There are plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. The city also offers a variety of cultural attractions, including museums, galleries, and historic sites. Juneau is also home to a vibrant arts and music scene, with plenty of live performances and events to enjoy.
Hiking
Hiking is a great way to explore the beauty of Juneau, Alaska. There are many trails to choose from, ranging from easy strolls to challenging treks. You can explore the lush forests, take in the stunning views of the mountains, and even spot some wildlife along the way. Whether you're looking for a leisurely hike or an adventure, Juneau has something for everyone.
Glacier Tours
The Mendenhall Glacier tour is one of Juneau’s most popular excursion options, with over 400k visitors per year. The 13 mile frozen river is situated just 12 miles from downtown Juneau. You’ll see spectacular views of the glacier, floating icebergs, and likely some wildlife hanging out in the area. Explore on your own or join an organized trip for convenience. If money is no object, consider seeing the glacier by helicopter!
Get Active
Enjoy the fabulous scenery while also getting that heart rate up. You’ll have many excursion options to get active while experiencing Juneau’s best. Whether hiking, kayaking, rock-climbing, zip-lining or biking, you’ll earn that cruise ship buffet once you return.
Cuisine
Try this experiment. Order the salmon on your cruise ship the night before you arrive. Then, take part in an Alaskan Salmon Bake excursion to taste the difference. Your tastebuds will freak out when experiencing fish that fresh.
Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity for cruise passengers visiting Juneau, Alaska. The waters around Juneau are home to a variety of fish, including salmon, halibut, and rockfish. You can charter a boat to take you out to the best fishing spots, or you can rent a kayak and explore the waters on your own. Either way, you're sure to have a great time fishing in Juneau.
Wildlife Tours
You’ll find few places better than Juneau to view wildlife in its natural environment. Whale-watching tours are very popular as are those viewing bears or bald eagles. Or, visit the Macaulay Salmon Hatchery to learn about this delicious and interesting local treasure.
Juneau is Home to the Mendenhall GlacierThe Mendenhall Glacier is a 12-mile long glacier located just 12 miles from downtown Juneau. It is part of the Juneau Icefield, a large icefield that covers over 1,500 square miles. The glacier is a popular tourist attraction and is accessible by boat, helicopter, or on foot. Visitors can explore the glacier's crevasses, ice caves, and other features.Shopping near Juneau, Alaska Cruise Port
Juneau, Alaska is known for its unique selection of locally made arts and crafts, as well as its many souvenir shops. The city is also home to a variety of specialty stores, including outdoor gear, jewelry, and books. Additionally, Juneau is home to a number of antique stores, offering a wide selection of vintage items.
Alaskan Fudge Company
The Alaskan Fudge Company is a great place to find delicious treats near the Juneau cruise port. They offer a variety of homemade fudge flavors, as well as other sweets like chocolates and caramels. They also have a selection of souvenirs, such as t-shirts, mugs, and keychains. The staff is friendly and helpful, and they are always willing to answer any questions you may have.
Juneau Souvenir & Gifts
Juneau Souvenir & Gifts is a great place to find souvenirs near the Juneau cruise port. They have a wide selection of items, including jewelry, clothing, and home decor. They also have a variety of Alaska-themed items, such as t-shirts, mugs, and keychains. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and they are always willing to help you find the perfect souvenir. They also offer a variety of discounts and promotions, so be sure to ask about them when you visit.
Kindred Post
The primary use of this building is as Juneau’s post office. But, more interestingly it serves as a gift shop and gathering place. It’s the type of place you need to see to fully appreciate. If looking to buy an Alaskan souvenir, put this place on your shopping list.
Alaska Gifts & Gallery
Alaska Gifts & Gallery is a great place to find souvenirs near the Juneau cruise port. They have a wide selection of items, including jewelry, clothing, and home decor. They also have a variety of Alaska-themed items, such as t-shirts, mugs, and keychains. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and they are always willing to help you find the perfect souvenir.
Franklin and Front Streets
Franklin is the main street you’ll see when disembarking. Head north (left) to peruse shops lining this street and to make your way downtown. You’ll eventually get to Front Street where you’ll find additional shopping options. The streets will be lined with retailers selling artwork, crafts, souvenirs, and more. Look for the “Made in Alaska” insignia if authenticity is a priority for you.
Beaches in Juneau, Alaska
Juneau is the Capital of AlaskaJuneau is the capital of Alaska and the second largest city in the state. It is located in the Alaskan panhandle, on the Gastineau Channel, and is the only state capital in the United States that can only be reached by boat or plane. Juneau is home to the Alaska State Capitol, the Alaska State Library, and the Alaska State Museum.Attractions in Juneau, Alaska
Juneau, Alaska is a popular cruise port destination. Visitors can explore the natural beauty of the area with excursions such as whale watching, glacier tours, and wildlife viewing. There are also opportunities to explore the local culture with visits to museums, historic sites, and local shops. For the more adventurous, there are options for kayaking, zip-lining, and even flightseeing. With so many options, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Juneau.
Trolley Tours
Explore Downtown Juneau via trolley. The 45-minute narrated tour will introduce you to the port’s highlights, including historic attractions and the best shopping options. It’ll cost roughly $30 for adults, but that price includes access to the Macaulay Salmon Hatchery!
Mount Roberts via Tramway
For roughly $30 (all day pass), you can take the tram 1,800 feet up into the Alaskan hillside to your stop at Mount Roberts. There you can hike, eat, or shop. Keep your eyes open for a bald eagle while up there. The Tram picks up almost directly in front of your cruise ship terminal on South Franklin Street.
Red Dog Saloon
Transport yourself in time to the wild west. When visitors came to Juneau looking for gold rather than shore tours. At the Red Dog Saloon, you’ll find swinging bar doors, an old-timey piano player, and sawdust lined floors. A previous owner, Gordie Kanouse, used to meet tour boats pulling up to port with his mule in hand. On that mule a sign that said “follow my ass to the Red Dog Saloon.”
Juneau-Douglas City Museum
Learn about Juneau’s cultural heritage. The Museum’s goal is to draw strength and perspective from the past, inspire learning, and find purpose for the future. On exhibit, you’ll find mining paraphernalia, artwork, native tools, and multi-media showing Juneau’s history and development.
Alaska State Capitol
The Alaska State Capitol is a popular tourist attraction in Juneau, Alaska. It is the seat of the state government and is home to the Alaska Legislature. Visitors can take a tour of the building and learn about the history of the state, as well as view the artwork and sculptures throughout the building. The Capitol is also home to the Alaska State Museum, which houses a variety of artifacts and exhibits about the state's history and culture.
Mendenhall Glacier
Mendenhall Glacier is a 12-mile-long glacier located in Juneau, Alaska. It is a popular tourist attraction for cruise ships, as it is easily accessible and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can take a boat tour to get up close to the glacier, or take a helicopter tour for a bird's eye view. There are also several hiking trails in the area, allowing visitors to explore the glacier and its surroundings.
Alaska Marine Highway System
The Alaska Marine Highway System is a popular tourist attraction in Juneau, Alaska. It is a ferry system that connects the city to other parts of the state, as well as to Canada. Visitors can take a ferry ride to explore the surrounding area, or take a day trip to explore the nearby islands. The ferry system also offers a variety of amenities, such as restaurants, shops, and entertainment, making it a great way to explore the area.
Macaulay Salmon Hatchery
Here you’ll see more salmon than you ever have in your life. The fish is one of Alaska’s natural treasures and contributes greatly to the economy. During your visit, a tour guide will do a much better job explaining how important the salmon is to Juneau and provide more interesting tidbits than you though possible about a fish. Admission is $5 for adults.
Best cruise excursions in Juneau, Alaska
We've analyzed tens of thousands of cruise tours to find your ideal attraction while in port. Based on these reviews, here are the Best Cruise Excursions in Juneau, Alaska
Juneau, Alaska cruise port map
Juneau is Home to the World's Largest Totem PoleThe world's largest totem pole is located in Juneau, Alaska. The pole stands at 165 feet tall and was carved from a single red cedar tree. It was commissioned by the Sealaska Corporation and was carved by master carver David Boxley. The totem pole is a symbol of the Tlingit culture and is a popular tourist attraction in Juneau.Juneau, Alaska Cruise Port Terminals
Cruise ships dock at the Port of Juneau, located at the foot of South Franklin Street in downtown Juneau.
South Franklin Street Terminals
This is Juneau’s largest and most popular terminal for cruise ships. Within this terminal, you’ll be at one of the following docks: South Franklin Street Dock; Intermediate Vessel Float; Cruise Ship Terminal; Alaska Steam Ship Dock. From each, a walk downtown is quick and easy. If you’re taking an organized excursions, it’ll pick you up right here at the terminal. Another option is to hop on the Tramway mentioned above to visit Mount Roberts.
Juneau Cruise Ship Terminal
The Juneau Cruise Ship Terminal is a major cruise ship terminal located in Juneau, Alaska. It is the main port for the Alaska Marine Highway System and is the largest ferry terminal in the state. The terminal is located on the waterfront of Auke Bay and offers a variety of services, including passenger and vehicle check-in, baggage handling, and ticketing.
AJ Dock
On highly trafficked days, your cruise ship might end up at AJ Dock. This terminal is further from downtown Juneau and will require a 20-minute walk to access the city. Or, you’ll find shuttles available to get you there quicker.