Cruise Port Guide: Juneau
Juneau is one of the most popular spots to visit on an Alaska cruise, and it happens to be the Capital city. A lot of visitors are shocked to learn that Downtown Juneau is located at the base of Mount Juneau, which adds to the beautiful surrounding landscapes. It is not possible to drive to Juneau, you have to take a boat or plane at some point in your journey here.
Getting around Juneau is relatively easy. If you’re fit and ready to go, it is an easily walkable town. Juneau has a city bus service, called Capital Transit, that you can take to navigate the Downtown area. It is mentioned in most other blogs that you can rent a car, but unless you have somewhere specific you want to go or have mobility issues, that is not necessary. If you’re interested in going to Mendenhall Glacier, I’ll go over getting there in the excursions section.
to do in downtown juneau
Mt.Roberts Aerial Tramway
Also known as the Goldbelt Tram, the aerial tramway will take you 1800 feet up Mt. Roberts to the summit terminal. There is a restaurant, theater, and store that you can visit while you’re up there. If you’re up for it you could also connect to a few different hiking trails while you’re up there. On a clear day you will have a vast view of the valley below, and on a cloudy day you may have very limited visibility. I would suggest waiting to buy your tickets until the day of, and purchase them directly through the Goldbelt Tram. If you do go this route you will risk them selling out, and you’ll still want to get them early in the day.
Sealaska Heritage Institute
The Sealaska Heritage Institute is a Native nonprofit that promotes cultural diversity and cross-cultural understanding. The museum inside rotates exhibits, and admission is $7 per person. The Sealaska Heritage Institute is much more than a simple stop; however, there are educational programs, lecture series and so much more. Stop into the store one the way out to support the local communities.
Visit Tahku
Tahku is the giant (life sized) bronze Humpback whale sculpture near Juneau’s waterfront. Tahku was commissioned to celebrate Alaska’s 50th year of statehood. While you’re visiting Tahku, take a walk on the boardwalk next door.
Take a Self Guided Brewery Tour
Juneau has a few breweries within walking distance of the port and each other that make for a great afternoon. Check out Devil’s Club Brewing Company, Alaska Brewing Co., and Barnaby Brewing Company.
Visit the Red Dog Saloon
The Red Dog Saloon is a cruise port staple. It originated in the mining era and gives off saloon vibes to this day. When you visit you’ll notice the oddities on the walls, tight seating area and fun atmosphere. If you’re looking for quiet I wouldn’t recommend it..
best excursions
Mendenhall Glacier
Mendenhall Glacier is a breathtaking stop that you have to make if you have the opportunity. There are several ways you can get there, via self tour, guided tour, or part of combination excursion. If you take a guided tour you won’t have to worry about transportation. If you plan on visiting on your own you will need to get your own transportation.
You can take a taxi or a direct shuttle to Mendenhall Glacier. You’ll notice that I didn’t mention taking the local bus. The local bus is mostly for Downtown transportation, it takes an hour and a half one way to Mendenhall Glacier. That is roughly triple the amount of time it would take if you took a direct “Mendenhall Glacier” shuttle. It is around $45 round trip per person to take a cruise line based, direct shuttle. You don’t have to book tickets in advance, but I would recommend you buy your tickets right when you get off your ship. There will be booths lining the dock where the ships let off, and there will be one for the “Blue Bus” which is the shuttle company to Mendenhall.
Once you get there you can visit visitor center or take a walk down to Nugget Falls. Nugget Falls is the famous waterfall right next to the glacier. The walk there is roughly three quarters of a mile and mostly flat, stable ground until you get to the beach.
Whale Watching
Juneau is located in a prime whale watching area and makes for a fantastic day. Guided whale watching tours are a great way to learn about the area’s wildlife and geography. Be sure to choose a company with an outdoor viewing platform as well as indoor seating if possible. This will give you the best opportunity to see a whale-because you can move around if you’re on the wrong side of the boat!
Boating
This category is simply boating because Juneau has a lot to offer via boat. There are zodiac, raft, and kayak adventures offered by a plethora of companies as well as cruise lines. Getting out on a boat in Juneau is one of the top rated excursion activities offered.
Juneau is a great cruise port with plenty of things to do. In our personal opinion-based on our experiences and preferences- we think it is best to either dedicate the day to exploring downtown or booking an excursion to do for at least part of the day. On our trip we explored downtown a little too quickly and were left with the rest of the day to find things to do (even after viewing Mendenhall Glacier). We wished we booked a whale watching tour in the afternoon. Regardless, if you have a plan you’ll have a great day here!