What to Do in Juneau Cruise Port: A 2-Day Itinerary

Juneau Cruise Port: A Gateway to the Alaskan Wilderness

Juneau, Alaska is a city with a population of just over 30,000 people, but it is home to one of the busiest cruise ports in the world. Each year, thousands of cruise ship passengers flock to Juneau to experience the city’s stunning scenery, rich history, and abundant wildlife.

If you’re planning a cruise to Juneau, you’ll have plenty of things to do during your stay. You can explore the city’s historic downtown, visit the Alaska State Museum, or take a hike in the nearby Tongass National Forest. And if you’re looking for some outdoor adventure, you can go kayaking, fishing, or whale watching.

No matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find something to do in Juneau. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!

What To Do In Juneau Cruise Port?

| Activity | Description | Cost |
|—|—|—|
| Hike Mount Roberts | Take a scenic hike to the top of Mount Roberts for stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains. | $25 |
| Visit the Alaska State Museum | Learn about the history and culture of Alaska at this museum, which is housed in a beautiful historic building. | Free |
| Take a cruise on the Mendenhall Glacier | See the glacier up close from a cruise boat. | $50 |
| Go kayaking in the Gastineau Channel | Paddle through the beautiful scenery of the Gastineau Channel. | $30 |
| Visit the Mendenhall Valley | Hike through the lush forests of the Mendenhall Valley and see the glacier up close. | Free |
| Take a flightseeing tour | Get a bird’s-eye view of Juneau and the surrounding area from a flightseeing tour. | $100 |

Juneau is the capital of Alaska and a popular cruise ship destination. The city is located on the Gastineau Channel, which is a fjord that cuts into the mainland. Juneau is surrounded by mountains and glaciers, and it offers stunning scenery and plenty of outdoor activities.

Sightseeing

There are many things to see in Juneau, including the following:

  • Mendenhall Glacier – The Mendenhall Glacier is one of the most popular attractions in Juneau. The glacier is located about 12 miles from downtown Juneau, and it is accessible by car or by bus. Visitors can take a walk on the glacier or take a boat tour of the glacier.
  • Mendenhall Lake – Mendenhall Lake is located at the base of the Mendenhall Glacier. The lake is a popular spot for fishing, kayaking, and swimming.
  • Mount Roberts – Mount Roberts is a mountain located in Juneau. The mountain can be reached by a cable car, and it offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding area. Visitors can hike to the top of the mountain or take a guided tour.
  • Alaska State Museum – The Alaska State Museum is located in downtown Juneau. The museum houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Alaska’s history.
  • Downtown Juneau – Downtown Juneau is a charming area with shops, restaurants, and bars. Visitors can explore the shops for souvenirs, sample the local cuisine, or catch a live music performance.

Outdoor Activities

Juneau is a great place to enjoy the outdoors. There are many outdoor activities available in the city, including the following:

  • Kayaking – The Gastineau Channel is a great place to go kayaking. Visitors can rent kayaks and explore the channel, or they can take a guided tour.
  • Fishing – Juneau is a great place to go fishing for salmon. The best time to go fishing is in the summer months.
  • Hiking – The Tongass National Forest is located just outside of Juneau. The forest offers a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging.
  • Camping – There are a number of state parks located near Juneau. These parks offer camping facilities, as well as hiking trails and other outdoor activities.
  • Whale Watching – Juneau is a great place to go whale watching. The best time to go whale watching is in the summer months.

Juneau is a beautiful city with a lot to offer visitors. The city has stunning scenery, plenty of outdoor activities, and a rich history. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an active adventure, Juneau has something to offer everyone.

3. Dining

Juneau is a foodie’s paradise, with a wide variety of restaurants to choose from. Whether you’re looking for fresh seafood, international cuisine, or a simple cup of coffee, you’re sure to find something to your taste in Juneau.

Here are a few of our favorite dining options in Juneau:

  • The Rookery is a popular spot for seafood, with a menu that includes everything from king crab legs to halibut cheeks. The restaurant also has a great view of the harbor.
  • The Saltery Seafood Grill is another great option for seafood, with a focus on sustainable and locally-sourced ingredients. The restaurant also has a raw bar and a great selection of wines.
  • The Alaskan Chop House is a fine-dining restaurant that offers classic American dishes with a modern twist. The restaurant has a beautiful dining room and a great view of the city.
  • The Moose’s Tooth Pub & Pizza is a casual spot that serves up delicious pizza, burgers, and other pub fare. The restaurant also has a great selection of beers on tap.
  • The Red Dog Saloon is a historic bar that’s been serving up drinks and live music since 1906. The saloon is a great place to experience the local culture and make some new friends.

Dining in Juneau is an experience that you won’t soon forget. With so many delicious options to choose from, you’re sure to find something to your taste. So next time you’re in Juneau, be sure to leave some time to enjoy the city’s culinary scene.

4. Shopping

Juneau is a great place to do some shopping, with a wide variety of stores to choose from. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs, clothes, or gifts, you’re sure to find something to your liking in Juneau.

Here are a few of our favorite shopping spots in Juneau:

  • The Alaska Native Heritage Center is a great place to find souvenirs and gifts that reflect the local culture. The center has a gift shop that sells a variety of items, including traditional Alaska Native art and crafts.
  • The Downtown Waterfront is home to a number of shops and boutiques, including clothing stores, art galleries, and jewelry stores. The waterfront is also a great place to people-watch and enjoy the views of the harbor.
  • The Juneau International Airport has a duty-free shop that’s a great place to find souvenirs and gifts for friends and family back home. The shop sells a variety of items, including alcohol, tobacco, and candy.
  • The Fred Meyer is a large grocery store that also has a department store section. The store sells a variety of items, including clothes, home goods, and electronics.
  • The North Face is a popular outdoor gear store that has a location in Juneau. The store sells a variety of clothing, shoes, and gear for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.

Juneau is a great place to do some shopping, with a wide variety of stores to choose from. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs, clothes, or gifts, you’re sure to find something to your liking in Juneau.

Juneau is a beautiful city with a lot to offer visitors. There are plenty of things to see and do, from exploring the natural beauty of the area to learning about the local culture. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an exciting adventure, Juneau is the perfect destination.

What are the top things to do in Juneau cruise port?

  • Visit the Mendenhall Glacier: The Mendenhall Glacier is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Juneau. Visitors can take a guided hike on the glacier, go kayaking on the lake, or simply enjoy the stunning views.
  • Explore the Alaska State Museum: The Alaska State Museum is a great place to learn about the history, culture, and natural history of Alaska. The museum has exhibits on everything from the indigenous peoples of Alaska to the gold rush.
  • Take a walk around downtown Juneau: Juneau’s downtown area is a charming mix of historic buildings and modern shops and restaurants. There are plenty of places to explore, including the Alaska Capitol Building, the Marine Park, and the Auke Bay Waterfront.
  • Go whale watching: Juneau is a great place to go whale watching. Humpback whales are common in the area, and you can often see them from the cruise ship or from a boat tour.
  • Visit the Tracy Arm Fjord: The Tracy Arm Fjord is a beautiful fjord located about 40 miles from Juneau. Visitors can take a boat tour of the fjord, which is home to glaciers, waterfalls, and wildlife.

What is the best way to get around Juneau?

The best way to get around Juneau is by walking or taking public transportation. The city has a free shuttle bus that runs between the cruise ship terminal and downtown Juneau. There are also taxis and rental cars available.

What is the weather like in Juneau?

The weather in Juneau is typically cool and wet, with average temperatures ranging from 35F to 55F. The warmest months are July and August, when the average temperature is around 60F. The coldest months are December and January, when the average temperature is around 30F.

What should I pack for a trip to Juneau?

You should pack warm clothes for your trip to Juneau, as the weather can be cool and wet. Be sure to pack a waterproof jacket, a hat, and gloves. You may also want to pack a pair of hiking boots or shoes, as there are many hiking trails in the area.

Where should I stay in Juneau?

There are many hotels and B&Bs in Juneau, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxurious accommodations. The best place to stay depends on your budget and interests. If you want to be close to the cruise ship terminal, there are several hotels and B&Bs located within walking distance. If you want to be close to the city’s attractions, there are also several hotels and B&Bs located downtown.

What are the best restaurants in Juneau?

Juneau has a wide variety of restaurants to choose from, ranging from casual cafes to fine dining establishments. Some of the most popular restaurants include The Rookery, The Hangar on the Wharf, and The Salmon Bake.

Is it safe to travel to Juneau?

Juneau is a safe city to visit. The crime rate is low, and the people are friendly and welcoming. However, it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions, just as you would in any other city.

What are the other popular tourist destinations in Alaska?

In addition to Juneau, there are many other popular tourist destinations in Alaska. Some of the most popular destinations include Anchorage, Denali National Park, and Fairbanks. Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska and is home to the Anchorage Museum, the Alaska Zoo, and the Alaska Native Heritage Center. Denali National Park is home to Mount McKinley, the highest mountain in North America. Fairbanks is a charming city located in the interior of Alaska. It is home to the University of Alaska Fairbanks, the Alaska Museum of Science and Nature, and the Tanana Valley State Fair.

Juneau is a beautiful and exciting city that offers visitors a variety of things to see and do. Whether you’re interested in exploring the natural beauty of the area, learning about Alaska’s history and culture, or simply relaxing and enjoying the scenery, Juneau has something to offer everyone.

Here are a few key takeaways from this article:

  • Juneau is located in the heart of Alaska’s Inside Passage, and it’s surrounded by stunning mountains, glaciers, and forests.
  • The city is home to a variety of museums and historical sites, including the Alaska State Museum and the Juneau-Douglas City Museum.
  • Juneau is also a great place to go hiking, fishing, kayaking, and whale watching.
  • There are plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops in Juneau, so you can find something to suit your taste and budget.

If you’re planning a trip to Alaska, be sure to add Juneau to your itinerary. It’s a city that you won’t want to miss.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.