Alaska, USA
Several compelling destinations near Juneau welcome day visits.
Douglas Island sits across the Gastineau Channel, connected by a bridge. Douglas Island has hiking trails, beaches, and historical sites.
Juneau's location is a gateway to many natural escapes for day excursions.
Juneau is within the vast Tongass National Forest. Many hiking trails lead into its wilderness. Ernest Gruening State Historical Park North of Juneau views Lynn Canal.
Seasonal events shape the natural experience in Juneau.
This section covers helpful information for your Juneau trip, from staying connected to local customs.
Mobile carriers like AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile have coverage. Prepaid SIMs or ESIMs from Airalo are available. Wi-Fi is widespread. Solis Wi-Fi offers portable options. USPS handles mail. English is the official language. Translation apps on your Smartphone assist non-English speakers. Learning Tlingit words like "Gunalchéesh" (Thank you) shows respect. Consider Rosetta Stone for language learning.
Retail shops operate 9 AM-5 PM off-season, extending to 8 AM-8 PM or later in summer. Restaurants serve breakfast (7-10 AM), lunch (11:30 AM-2 PM), and dinner (5-9 PM). Grocery stores are open 7 AM-10 or 11 PM. Attractions adjust hours seasonally, with extended summer times and off-season closures. Banks operate M-F, 9 AM-5 PM. ATMs are widely present. Federal holidays and Alaska Day (Oct 18) may cause closures.
Greetings are casual; handshakes for introductions. Dress is generally casual, prioritizing comfort and weather readiness. Tipping 15-20% for good service at restaurants and bars is standard. Photography in public spaces is acceptable; permission for individuals is good practice. Respect "no photography" signs. Avoid political discussions unless invited. Generalizations about Alaska Native cultures are inappropriate. Juneau is a progressive community; LGBTQ+ travelers are welcome.
Juneau is working on accessibility for all travelers. Newer buildings and main attractions are generally wheelchair accessible. Some older downtown sidewalks can be uneven.
Limited specialized services exist for visual or hearing impairments. Arranging needs in advance by contacting attractions or tour operators directly is best.
Traveler choices shape a positive experience for Juneau.
Juneau's natural environment flourishes. Minimizing ecological footprint matters.
Conscious water use is good practice. Reducing waste through reusable items is a positive step.
Cultural preservation is . Support Alaska Native cultural institutions, like the Sealaska Heritage Institute.
Photography ethics respect privacy. Always ask permission before photographing people, especially children or during cultural ceremonies.
Traveler spending choices directly affect the local economy. Choices supporting Juneau's residents and businesses are positive.
Prioritize local restaurants, tour operators (like G Adventures for ethical tours), and shops. This money stays within the community.
When buying souvenirs, inquire about sourcing and fair trade practices. Authenticity for Native Alaskan art directly benefits artists. Consider The Rainforest Site for ethical purchases.
Choose tour operators prioritizing animal well-being (e.g., whale watching with safe distances). Avoid products from endangered species or unregulated tours.
These itinerary suggestions cater to different durations, interests, and budgets, offering a framework for your Juneau adventure.
Morning: Mount Roberts Tramway. Lunch: Local seafood. Afternoon: Historic South Franklin Street, Alaska State Museum. Evening: Dinner downtown, waterfront walk.
Day 1: Downtown & Tramway, explore historic area. Day 2: Morning whale watching, afternoon Mendenhall Glacier. Day 3: Alaska State Museum, optional hike.
Expand on weekend itinerary. Add full-day Tracy Arm Fjord tour. Glacier trekking or kayaking. Explore Douglas Island and Sealaska Heritage Institute. Flex day.
Stay at Juneau Hostel or public campgrounds. Use Capital Transit. Cook own meals. Focus on free activities (hiking, downtown, State Capitol). One major tour, if budget allows. A General budget travel guide may assist.
Mid-range hotel or Airbnb. Mix public transit and occasional taxis. Dine at casual and mid-range restaurants. Include whale watching, Mendenhall Glacier, Mount Roberts Tramway.
Premium hotel or upscale rental. Private transfers, taxis, or rental car. Fine dining. Private tours: helicopter with glacier landing, fishing charter. Book experiences via GetYourGuide.
