Itinerary Suggestions: Juneau

Time-Based Overviews

Juneau offers experiences for varying lengths of stay. From a brief layover to a comprehensive week-long visit, planning around your available time maximizes your journey.

Longer stays, like two weeks or more, allow for deep immersion in Juneau life and extended regional travel.

Duration Specifics

24-Hour Layover: Mount Roberts Tramway, downtown sights, local dining.
Weekend Getaway (2-3 Days): Downtown, Tramway, whale watching, Mendenhall Glacier, museums.
One-Week Comprehensive Experience: Extend weekend with Tracy Arm Fjord, glacier trekking, Douglas Island.

Interest-Based Routes

Tailor your Juneau itinerary to your specific interests.

History & Heritage

A journey through Juneau's past. A self-guided or guided walking tour of downtown Juneau’s historic district (South Franklin Street) is a choice.

Historical Highlights

Visit the Alaska State Museum and Juneau-Douglas City Museum.
Explore the Last Chance Mining Museum.
Tour the Alaska State Capitol and St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church.
Hike the Perseverance Trail to see old mining operation remnants.

Deepen your knowledge of Juneau's rich history.

Food & Culinary

Taste Juneau's fresh flavors. A "seafood crawl" for salmon, halibut fish and chips, and king crab at various local eateries is a choice.

Taste of Juneau

Visit the Alaskan Brewing Co. For a brewery tour and tasting.
Explore local coffee shops.
Try desserts with wild berries.

Adventure & Outdoors

Juneau is for outdoor enthusiasts. A whale watching tour and a Tracy Arm Fjord tour (or other glacier viewing boat tour) are recommended.

Active Pursuits

Mendenhall Glacier: Hiking, kayaking on the lake, guided glacier trekking.
A helicopter tour over the Juneau Icefield.
Kayaking trip on Mendenhall Lake or in Auke Bay.
Ziplining through the rainforest.

Family & Cultural Trips

Juneau offers diverse family and cultural experiences. The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center and Mount Roberts Tramway are family-friendly.

Engaging Experiences

Whale watching tours are educational and exciting for all ages.
Eagle Beach is for beachcombing and picnics.
Visit the Sealaska Heritage Institute to learn about Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian art and culture.
A Child's travel activity book keeps young travelers entertained.

Art & Architecture / Spiritual & Wellness

Explore Juneau's creative and introspective sides.

Art & Architecture

Explore downtown art galleries featuring Alaskan Native and regional art. Spend time at the Alaska State Museum's art collection. Architectural walks highlight gold rush-era buildings.

Spiritual Journey

Visit the Shrine of St. Thérèse for quiet contemplation. Enjoy mindful walks on quieter hiking trails, like those around Auke Lake or at Eagle Beach.

Wellness Focus

Seek out local yoga studios for classes. Combine with outdoor activities for a holistic approach to well-being.

Tailored Adventures

Juneau offers diverse avenues for exploration, fitting varied interests from historical immersion to high-energy outdoor pursuits.

Budget-Based Plans

Adjust your itinerary to fit your budget.

Backpacker's Guide

Maximize experiences on a minimal budget.

Cost-Saving Strategies

Stay at the Juneau Hostel or public campgrounds.
Rely on Capital Transit buses for transportation.
Cook some of your own meals using groceries from supermarkets.
Focus on free activities like numerous hiking trails and downtown exploration.

A General budget travel guide assists in planning.

Mid-Range Traveler's Itinerary

Balance comfort and cost for a satisfying trip.

Value-Focused Experiences

Stay in a mid-range hotel or Airbnb.
Use a mix of public transit and occasional taxis/ride-shares.
Dine at a mix of casual and mid-range restaurants.
Include a whale watching tour, Mendenhall Glacier visit, and Mount Roberts Tramway ride.

Luxury Experience Plan

Indulge in premium services and exclusive experiences.

Premium Comfort

Stay at a premium hotel or upscale vacation rental.
Utilize private transfers, taxis, or a rental car.
Indulge in fine dining experiences.

Exclusive Adventures

Book private tours, like a private helicopter tour with a glacier landing.
Consider a private fishing charter.
Book all experiences seamlessly through GetYourGuide.

Seasonal Specialties

Each season in Juneau offers unique experiences.

Seasonal Highlights

Summer (June-August): Peak whale and bear viewing, full tour operations, long daylight for outdoor activities.
Winter (December-February): Winter sports at Eaglecrest Ski Area.
Potential for Northern Lights viewing on clear, dark nights (weather can hinder).
Experience quieter landscapes and fewer crowds in winter.

Off-Season Exploration

Strategies for visiting outside the peak summer months.

Value & Weather Considerations

Take advantage of lower prices for flights and accommodations.
Prepare for colder and wetter weather.
Focus on indoor attractions like museums and galleries.
Enjoy the solitude of quieter trails.

Important Considerations

Weather Variability

Weather conditions can influence outdoor plans. Building in flexibility is always recommended for Juneau's climate.

Advance Booking

Especially during peak season, booking tours and popular accommodations in advance is recommended. This helps secure your preferred experiences.

Plan Your Adventure

These itineraries serve as starting points. Adapt them to your preferences and Juneau's offerings during your visit.

Itinerary Suggestions