Things to Do in Juneau, United States
Juneau, Alaska's capital, isn't reachable by road; it's a city embraced by towering mountains and the Gastineau Channel, accessible only by air or sea. This unique isolation defines its rugged charm, drawing visitors seeking raw Alaskan wilderness paired with a historic gold rush town feel. Expect ancient glaciers, abundant wildlife, and dense temperate rainforest just moments from downtown's Victorian-era buildings and local shops.
Visitors come to Juneau to experience the grandeur of the Tongass National Forest, witness humpback whales breaching in Stephens Passage, and stand in awe before the mighty Mendenhall Glacier. It’s a destination for active travelers and nature lovers, where adventure meets a surprisingly vibrant small-city culture. From challenging hiking trails to artisanal breweries, Juneau offers an authentic taste of Southeast Alaska without venturing too far off the beaten path.
Top Things to Do in Juneau
Mendenhall Glacier
The star attraction, a massive, accessible glacier just 12 miles from downtown. Walk the Photo Point Trail for classic views or the Nugget Falls Trail to feel the spray of the waterfall cascading next to the ice.
Mount Roberts Tramway
Ascend 1,800 feet directly from the cruise ship docks to enjoy panoramic views of Juneau, Gastineau Channel, and surrounding islands. At the top, find hiking trails, a nature center, and the Mountain House restaurant.
Alaska State Museum
Located on Whittier Street, this museum offers an in-depth look at Alaska's rich natural, cultural, and artistic history, from Native Alaskan artifacts to gold rush exhibits and contemporary art.
Tracy Arm Fjord
A narrow, 30-mile-long fjord south of Juneau, famous for its tidewater glaciers (North and South Sawyer Glaciers) and abundant wildlife like harbor seals, bears, and whales. Best experienced by a guided boat tour.
Juneau Whale Watching
Head out into Stephens Passage or Favorite Channel from Auke Bay for guaranteed sightings of humpback whales feeding in nutrient-rich waters. Many reputable tour operators offer a 'whale guarantee' during peak season.
Downtown Juneau & South Franklin Street
Explore the historic core with its narrow streets, unique boutiques, and gold rush-era architecture. South Franklin Street is particularly vibrant with shops, galleries, and eateries housed in charming old buildings.
Shrine of St. Thérèse
A serene stone chapel and retreat built on a small island north of Juneau, accessible by a causeway. It offers stunning views of Lynn Canal and a peaceful spot for reflection, particularly beautiful at sunset.
Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure
Just past the Mendenhall Valley, these unique upside-down trees ('flower towers') and meticulously maintained botanical gardens are set within the Tongass National Forest, showcasing its lush beauty and innovative horticulture.
Neighborhoods to Explore
Downtown Juneau, clustered along the Gastineau Channel, is the historic heart, characterized by its walkability, gold rush architecture on South Franklin Street, and proximity to the state capitol and cruise ship docks. Head north to the Mendenhall Valley, Juneau’s most populated area, offering suburban amenities, big box stores, and the closest access to Mendenhall Glacier and the Juneau International Airport. Douglas Island, connected by a bridge, provides a quieter, residential feel with great hiking trails like Savikko Park's 'Sandy Beach' and scenic views back to Juneau. Auke Bay, further north past the Valley, is a picturesque harbor community known for its marinas, whale watching departures, and the University of Alaska Southeast campus.
What to Eat in Juneau
Juneau’s culinary scene capitalizes on its direct access to the freshest seafood. You must try the wild Alaskan salmon, whether pan-seared at The Rookery Cafe or grilled at Hangar on the Wharf, often accompanied by local foraged ingredients. Don’t miss Dungeness crab or halibut fish and chips from Tracy’s King Crab Shack, a downtown institution right near the docks. For a taste of Juneau’s craft beer scene, Alaskan Brewing Co. offers tours and tastings, while local breweries like Barnaby Brewing Co. serve up unique brews alongside casual bites.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Juneau is from May through September. During these summer months, temperatures are mild, daylight hours are long, and all attractions, including boat tours and the Mount Roberts Tramway, are fully operational, offering the best chances for wildlife viewing.
Getting Around
Downtown Juneau is highly walkable, especially for exploring shops and historic sites. For attractions outside the core, like Mendenhall Glacier or Auke Bay, local Capital Transit buses are available but service can be infrequent. Taxis, ride-shares, and shuttle services cater to cruise passengers. Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring the limited road system, particularly if you plan to visit multiple spots in the Mendenhall Valley or Douglas Island.
Watch Juneau Live Right Now
Can’t make it to Juneau just yet? Experience its natural splendor from home with EarthLive24’s free live webcams. Our Mendenhall Glacier camera offers stunning, real-time views of the ice and surrounding wilderness, allowing you to witness its majesty, changing light, and perhaps even wildlife activity, all from your screen. It’s the perfect preview or a way to revisit the magic of Alaska's capital city.
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Juneau Travel FAQ
What are the top things to do in Juneau?▼
Visit Mendenhall Glacier, ride the Mount Roberts Tramway for panoramic views, go whale watching in Stephens Passage, and explore the historic shops and eateries along South Franklin Street downtown.
How many days do you need in Juneau?▼
For a comprehensive visit covering the main attractions like Mendenhall Glacier, whale watching, and downtown exploration, plan for at least 2-3 full days. This allows for buffer time for weather and a more relaxed pace.
Is Juneau worth visiting?▼
Absolutely. Juneau offers a unique blend of accessible wilderness, stunning natural beauty, and a rich history. Its setting amidst mountains and water, coupled with opportunities for glacier viewing, wildlife encounters, and cultural immersion, makes it a highly rewarding destination.
Can I watch Juneau live online?▼
Yes, you can! EarthLive24 offers free live webcams, including a spectacular view of the Mendenhall Glacier, allowing you to experience Juneau's incredible natural environment in real-time from anywhere.