Juneau Travel Hacks. Money Saving, Time Saving, Local Secrets

Money-Saving Strategies

Travel smart to save money in Juneau.

Free Activities & Attractions

Explore numerous hiking trails without cost.
Wander through downtown Juneau on foot.
Join a guided tour of the State Capitol building (check availability).
Access internet at the Juneau Public Library.

Happy Hours & Dining Deals

Seek out happy hour specials in the late afternoon.
Consider lunch specials for more affordable meals.
Look for local promotions and discounts.
Opt for casual eateries for budget-friendly dining.

Transportation Savings

Utilize Capital Transit buses for city travel.
Walk whenever possible, especially downtown.
Share taxis or ride-shares for airport transfers.
A day pass for the bus is a cost-effective option.

Accommodation Alternatives

Juneau Hostel offers budget-friendly lodging.
Consider camping at public campgrounds.
Book vacation rentals with kitchens to prepare meals.
Look for options outside the immediate downtown area.

Time-Saving Tips

Make the most of your time in Juneau, especially during peak season.

Skip-the-Line Options

Purchase Mount Roberts Tramway tickets online in advance.
Advance booking avoids long queues at the tram base.
This saves considerable time during busy summer days.
Prioritize popular attractions for early ticket purchase.

Optimal Attraction Times

Visit Mendenhall Glacier early (before 9 AM) or late (after 5 PM).
Explore downtown Juneau in the evenings for a quieter experience.
Avoid crowds from cruise ships during peak midday hours.
Better photo opportunities with fewer people.

Express Transportation

Taxis or ride-shares are faster for time-sensitive travel.
Helicopter tours quickly show Juneau Icefield and glaciers.
For distant attractions, private transport shortens travel time.
Prioritize direct routes for efficient movement.

Pre-Booking Recommendations

Book popular tours and accommodations well in advance for summer travel.
Early booking secures availability and better prices.
A Travel planner notebook manages bookings.
Confirm travel plans to optimize your itinerary.

Local Insights

Understand Juneau through these local tips.

Common Tourist Mistakes

Underestimating Juneau's variable weather.
Not booking tours and lodging in advance.
Limiting exploration to only downtown Juneau.
Forgetting to carry small cash for local purchases.

Local Customs

"Alaskan casual" dress is the norm.
Locals generally welcome questions for directions.
Respect for the natural environment is highly valued.
A relaxed and friendly atmosphere prevails.

Unofficial Rules

Maintain distance from wildlife; never feed animals.
The community thrives on resourcefulness and strong bonds.
Flexibility is important as weather changes quickly.
Minimize your environmental impact.

Phrases That Connect

Learning a few Tlingit words shows cultural regard.
"Gunalchéesh" for Thank you is a great start.
Simple greetings in Tlingit show engagement.
Cultural awareness builds positive interactions.

Solo, Family & Group Advice

Tailor your approach based on your travel companions.

Solo Traveler Safety & Social

Juneau is generally safe for solo visitors.
Inform someone of hiking plans, especially on remote trails.
Hostels and group tours connect you with others.
Group activities offer social opportunities.

Family-Friendly Adaptations

Mendenhall Glacier and Mount Roberts Tramway welcome children.
Whale watching tours entertain young ones.
Pack extra layers and waterproof shoes for children.
Bring a Child's travel activity book for travel time.

Managing Group Logistics

Book tours and lodging well in advance for groups.
Consider renting a larger van for group transport.
Appoint a group leader for bookings and communication.
Confirm group reservations to prevent complications.

Accessibility Considerations

Juneau is working on accessibility enhancements.
Research specific needs by contacting attractions directly.
Many tour operators welcome accommodations when informed.
Plan routes that cater to diverse mobility levels.

Travel Flexibility

Juneau's weather changes rapidly. Embrace adaptability for a pleasant journey.

Juneau's Character

Discover the unique elements that define Juneau's spirit.

Wild Natural Beauty

Juneau sits amidst stunning glaciers, vast forests, and marine wonders.

Rich Cultural Heritage

Experience the enduring traditions of Native Alaskan peoples.

Gateway to Adventure

An ideal base for glacier treks, whale watching, and forest hikes.

Experiences

Mendenhall Glacier Exploration

Witness the grandeur of the glacier from multiple viewpoints.
Walk trails around the visitor center.
Observe Nugget Falls nearby.

Downtown & Tramway Access

Ride the Mount Roberts Tramway for panoramic views.
Stroll through historic downtown shops and art galleries.
Visit the State Capitol and Alaska State Museum.

Juneau's Allure

Juneau combines urban amenities with wilderness proximity, making it a distinctive destination.

Juneau Travel Hacks