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Attractions & Sightseeing

Attractions & Sightseeing

Alaska, USA

Iconic Landmarks

Juneau's most recognized and frequently visited attractions.

The Mendenhall Glacier is an impressive 13-mile-long glacier within the Tongass National Forest. The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center includes exhibits and ranger programs. Trails lead to viewing platforms like Photo Point and Nugget Falls. A Small guide to glaciers can deepen your experience.

Other Landmarks

  • Mount Roberts Tramway: Ascends to 1,800 feet for panoramic views of Juneau, Gastineau Channel, and Douglas Island.
  • Alaska State Capitol Building: Seat of Alaska's government, with free guided tours when legislature is not in session.
  • State of Alaska Governor's House: Historic residence viewable from the outside.
  • Shrine of St. Thérèse: Unique stone shrine north of Juneau, peaceful with scenic coastal views.

Visitor Information & Insider Tips

Hours, Fees, and Guided Options

  • Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center: Typically open daily. Day-use fee $5-$15 (May-Sep).
  • Mount Roberts Tramway: Operates seasonally (late April/early May to late Sep/early Oct), typically 9 AM to 9 PM. Tickets ~ $45-$50.
  • Alaska State Capitol: Open weekdays. Free guided tours available, check website for schedules.
  • Photography Tip: A Waterproof camera case is good for mist near Nugget Falls.
  • Lens Recommendations: Wide-angle for landscapes, telephoto for wildlife.
  • Tripod: A Travel tripod is useful for low-light or long exposures (Nugget Falls).

Best Viewing & Less Crowded Times

  • Mendenhall Glacier: Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
  • Photo Point Trail: Classic views. Nugget Falls Trail: Close-up view of the powerful waterfall.
  • Mount Roberts Tramway: Visit on a clear day for best visibility. Sunsets are spectacular.
  • Less Crowded: Visit during low season (Oct-April) or very early/late in the day during peak. West Glacier Trail has fewer people.

Explore downtown in the evenings after cruise ship passengers depart for a quieter experience.

Museums & Cultural Institutions

  • Alaska State Museum: Extensive collections on Alaskan history, natural history, fine art, and Native cultures.
  • Juneau-Douglas City Museum: Focuses on Juneau and Douglas Island history, including gold rush and mining.
  • Art Galleries: Downtown galleries specialize in authentic Alaskan Native art (carvings, masks, prints, jewelry).
  • Sealaska Heritage Institute: Promotes Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian cultures through exhibits, performances, and education.

Historical Sites

  • Archaeological Sites:

    Mendenhall Glacier area shares interpretive information on glacial history and early human presence.

  • Historic Districts:

    South Franklin Street in downtown Juneau is a registered historic district with well-preserved gold rush era buildings.

  • Religious Sites:

    St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church (1894), and the serene Shrine of St. Thérèse.

  • Industrial Heritage:

    Remnants of old mining operations (Perseverance Mine) and the historic Treadwell Mine on Douglas Island.

  • Memorials:

    Various monuments on the Alaska State Capitol grounds and the Juneau Veterans Memorial.

Natural Attractions

Juneau is surrounded by remarkable natural beauty.

Parks, Views, and Wildlife

  • Parks and Gardens

    Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area (trails, viewpoints). Eagle Beach State Recreation Area (scenic drive, beach, birdwatching). Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure (botanical garden).

  • Scenic Viewpoints

    Mount Roberts Tramway for unparalleled panoramic views. Gastineau Channel, a dynamic natural feature with marine life.

  • Fjords and Glaciers

    Tracy Arm Fjord & Sawyer Glacier: Accessible by boat tour from Juneau, with tidewater glaciers and waterfalls. A Guide to Alaska's fjords could be helpful.

  • Wildlife Viewing Areas

    Whale Watching Tours: Premier destination for humpback whales and orcas. Consider a Whale watching guide. Steep Creek (Mendenhall Glacier): Black bears during salmon run. Eagle Beach: Excellent for birdwatching.

  • Geological Features

    Mendenhall Glacier, Nugget Falls (waterfall next to glacier), and dramatic coastal fjords.

  • Beaches, Lakes, and Waterways

    Mendenhall Lake, Auke Lake, and Gastineau Channel offer recreation and scenic viewing.

Hidden Gems

Discover lesser-known treasures beyond the main tourist circuit.

Off-the-Beaten-Path

Perseverance Trail extensions for solitude, Last Chance Mining Museum for immersive history, Evergreen Cemetery for reflection.

Local Favorites

Sandy Beach (Douglas Island) for locals' views, Auke Bay Working Harbor for maritime life, remote lodges via floatplane for wilderness.

Unique Photo Opportunities

Capture stunning reflections of mountains in Gastineau Channel.

  • Aurora Borealis: Sometimes visible in winter on clear, dark nights, offering an unique photo subject.
  • Plan your sightseeing for your interests.
  • Juneau's attractions cater to nature lovers, adventurers, history buffs, and cultural explorers.

Affiliate Resources for Attractions

Organize your sightseeing and make the most of your trip with convenient booking options.

Attraction Tickets & Tours

For easy booking of various attractions and tours, look into dedicated platforms.

Recommended Platform

  • GetYourGuide: A reputable site for booking attraction tickets and guided tours worldwide.
  • It features a broad selection of Juneau tours, including whale watching and glacier visits.
  • Streamline your activity planning and secure your spots in advance.

Planning Your Itinerary

Utilize these resources to enhance your trip's organization and discovery.

Enhance Your Visit

  • Check tour availability and book popular activities ahead of time, especially during peak season.
  • Explore activity options that match your interests, from nature exploration to cultural experiences.
  • Read reviews and compare options to find the best fit for your travel style and budget.

Self-Guided Exploration

Discover Juneau's historical downtown on a self-guided walking tour.

Photography Hotspots

Visit Mendenhall Glacier at specific times for optimal photo opportunities.

Wildlife Encounters

Book a whale watching tour for memorable marine wildlife sightings.

Juneau's Varied Offerings

Juneau features a wide array of attractions to suit diverse preferences, ensuring a memorable visit.

  • Explore options from exhilarating outdoor adventures to enriching cultural experiences.
  • Create an itinerary that balances exploration and relaxation.
  • Check local calendars and websites for special exhibits or events during your stay.

Planning Your Sightseeing

A well-planned itinerary allows you to fully experience Juneau's top attractions and hidden gems.

Maximize Your Glacier Visit

To experience Mendenhall Glacier with fewer crowds, plan your visit strategically.

Tips for Mendenhall

  • Arrive early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak cruise ship crowds.
  • Utilize Photo Point Trail for classic views and Nugget Falls Trail for a close-up waterfall experience.

Tramway & Downtown Exploration

The Mount Roberts Tramway and Downtown Juneau are central to local exploration.

Best Practices

  • Ride the Mount Roberts Tramway on a clear day for breathtaking panoramic vistas.
  • Explore downtown Juneau in the evenings for a quieter experience after the daytime crowds disperse.
  • Visit the Alaska State Capitol and local museums for historical and cultural insights.

Museums & Culture

Immerse yourself in Alaska's rich history and diverse Native cultures.

Cultural Exploration

  • Alaska State Museum and Juneau-Douglas City Museum detail the region's past.
  • Numerous galleries feature authentic Alaskan Native art.
  • The Sealaska Heritage Institute offers insights into Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian cultures.

Check for special exhibits and performances to deepen your cultural appreciation.

Nature's Embrace

Juneau's natural surroundings are a paradise for outdoor lovers.

Outdoor Highlights

  • Enjoy scenic viewpoints, pristine lakes, and dynamic waterways.
  • Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, specifically whale watching and bear sightings.

Explore Eagle Beach for birdwatching or take a boat tour to Tracy Arm Fjord.

Hidden Gems & Unique Sights

Venture beyond the popular spots to discover Juneau's quieter charms.

Off-the-Beaten-Path

  • Seek solitude on upper Perseverance Trail extensions.
  • Visit the Last Chance Mining Museum for historical depth.
  • Experience authentic maritime life at Auke Bay Working Harbor.

These spots offer unique perspectives and quieter experiences away from the crowds.

Final Tips for Sightseeing

Flexibility

Be flexible with your plans due to weather conditions, especially for outdoor activities and tours.

Local Guides

Consider local guides for insights into Juneau’s history, culture, and natural environment.

Footwear

Wear comfortable, waterproof footwear, especially if you plan to explore trails or outdoor sites.

Explore and Discover

Juneau features a wide array of attractions, from impressive glaciers to downtown streets. Your visit can be tailored to match your interests, whether you seek outdoor adventure, historical insight, or cultural immersion.