31 Best Things to Do in Juneau Alaska from a Cruise Ship

1. Mendenhall Glacier, #1 Alaska Must Do

🤩 I love this Mendenhall glacier tour because of its small group size!

🤩 I love this whale watching tour because it has flexible port pickup times!

3. Juneau City Tour

A guided tour of Juneau lets you see the highlights of the city, including the State Capitol building, historic sites, and local landmarks.

You’ll get a chance to learn all about the city’s unique history and culture from an expert guide.

Pro Tip: Juneau is the only state capital in the United States that is inaccessible by road.

Plus, you’ll explore along the Gastineau Channel, past the Mendenhall Tidelands, and through the expansive Tongass forest.

It’s a great way to see a little bit of everything that makes Juneau great!

🤩 I also love this helicopter tour because you land on Mendenhall Glacier!

🤩 I love this Glacier Gardens tour because it includes round round-trip shuttle service! (May 1-Sept 30 only)

8. Go Dog Sledding

Dog sledding, also known as mushing, is a popular winter sport in Alaska. Typically, dog sledding tours are available in nearby areas accessible by helicopter from Juneau. 

These tours provide an opportunity to ride on a sled pulled by a team of energetic and well-trained sled dogs.

You’ll have the chance to interact with the dogs and learn about mushing techniques and the famous Iditarod race.

Pro Tip: Hold on! I went mushing for the first time at age 10, with a friend whose mom was an Iditarod racer. We sped around the third corner so fast that I fell on my face. Tours are much safer!

If you don’t have the time or don’t wish to take the helicopter or a dog sledding experience, you can still learn about mushing, meet some dogs, and be pulled over the ground on a wheeled sled instead of skis. 

9. Take a Segway Tour

The Segway Tour is generally a half-day excursion, taking you through the Lynn Canal and the peaceful Tongass National Forest on your way to the must-do Mendenhall Glacier.

It’s a beautiful trip, filled with wonderful photo opportunities, fabulous landscapes, and a ton of interesting information from your guide!

Be sure to check in advance the minimum age required for this activity, and others, as it can be as high as 14.

10. Ziplining

You can also take an exhilarating zipline adventure on Douglas Island from Juneau.

You’ll soar through the unending seas of the green rainforest canopy of the Tongass National Forest. 

It’s an action-packed excursion that combines breathtaking nature and a variety of unique activities like axe throwing!

11. Sea Kayaking

Sea kayaking is another great adventure to consider if you have the time. It’s excellent exercise as well!

As you paddle along, your guide will fill your head with captivating stories about both the Native culture and history of Juneau.

Along the way, you may also harbor seals, sea lions, porpoises, and even humpback whales.

You may even have a view of the Mendenhall Glacier from a distance, which will give you a good impression of just how big it is.

12. Tongass National Forest Trekking

The Tongass National Forest has a vast network of trails spanning over 700 miles just waiting to be explored.

Whether you seek a leisurely stroll or a challenging trek, there are trails suited for every age and ability, from accessible boardwalks to rugged alpine paths.

Alternatively, you can research the trails yourself and plan ahead to do some hiking on your own. Be sure to bring plenty of water, whichever you choose.

The Nugget Falls Trail and Photo Point Trail are perfectly gorgeous hikes for beginners who are short on time.

13. Eat at Tracy’s King Crab Shack

Not far from the cruise ship dock is Tracy’s King Crab Shack, a place you can easily get to in Juneau on your own.

Don’t be intimidated by the very long line, as it usually moves quickly.

The King crab legs are extraordinary, in flavor and expense. One pound of red king crab legs, which isn’t all that much, is about $75.

The snow crab is considerably less expensive and also delicious. 

14. Nugget Falls

Nugget Falls is a magnificent waterfall about 13 miles from Juneau. It sits in the Mendenhall Valley, within the boundaries of the Tongass National Forest. 

The waterfall is fed by the Nugget Glacier, and its cascading waters plunge approximately 377 feet (115 meters) into Mendenhall Lake.

If you need motivation to exercise on your stop, this is all you’ll need. 

Once you arrive at Nugget Falls, the sheer force and grandeur of the waterfall up close is something you’re unlikely to ever forget.

The nearby Mendenhall Glacier is a popular attraction too, and you can combine a visit to Nugget Falls with a hike to the glacier for a fun-filled, action-packed day. 

To reach Nugget Falls, you take the Nugget Falls Trail starting from the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center.

The trail is well-maintained and relatively easy, making it accessible for most people.  

15. Tracy Arm Fjord

Tracy Arm Fjord is a stunning natural fjord, about 45 miles southeast of the Juneau Alaska port.

The fjord stretches over 30 miles long and is surrounded by the Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness.

The Tracy Arm Fjord is a popular destination for Alaska cruise ship excursions and boat tours departing from Juneau. Some cruise ships sail through here as part of their itinerary!

These tours usually provide an opportunity to sail through the fjord, allowing you to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the glacier-carved landscape up close. 

You may have the chance to see wildlife such as seals, whales, mountain goats, and various bird species on this tour.

The best highlight of this trip, however, is the opportunity to see the Sawyer Glacier.

The glacier comprises two separate glaciers: the South Sawyer Glacier and the North Sawyer Glacier and is an incredibly impressive sight to see in person.

16. Mount Roberts Trail

If you’re looking for some free Juneau things to do, my top suggestion is to spend your day surrounded by the beauty of nature on the Mt Roberts Trail. 

The Mount Roberts Trail is a popular hiking trail that starts near downtown Juneau and leads to the summit of Mount Roberts.

The mountain stands at an elevation of approximately 3,819 feet (1,164 meters). It’s steep!

The 4.5-mile trail is well-maintained and offers a difficult/strenuous hiking experience, with some fairly steep sections along the way.

At the top, stop for a picnic lunch, celebrate your hard work, and savor the stunning panoramic view of the surrounding mountains, forests, and the Gastineau Channel.

17. Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway

Ride the Mount Roberts Tramway, which takes you up to an elevation of 1,800 feet in just 6 minutes.

Enjoy breathtaking views of Juneau, go hiking on the mountain trails, eat at their excellent restaurant and visit the Nature Center to learn more about the local wildlife. 

Tickets for the tram are available right at the Juneau port, so this is a great add-on activity if you have spare time after your Alaska cruise excursion.

18. Amalga Distillery

The Amalga Distillery is a craft distillery specializing in producing small-batch, handcrafted spirits using locally sourced ingredients.

It offers a range of spirits, including vodka, gin, and whiskey. All are crafted with care and attention to detail.

The distillery offers guided tours where you can explore the facility, learn about the distilling techniques employed, and interact with knowledgeable staff who are happy to share their passion for spirits. 

Tastings are often available (adults only)!

19. Shrine of St. Therese

The Shrine of St. Therese is a Catholic shrine is a picturesque retreat on the peninsula overlooking the Gastineau Channel.

It’s dedicated to St. Therese of Lisieux, a French Carmelite nun known for her spiritual writings and devotion to love and simplicity.

The Shrine is open to people of all faiths and welcomes visitors who are looking for a peaceful setting to reflect, meditate, or simply enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings.

There’s plenty of space and solitude in their beautifully landscaped gardens or walking paths, as well as in the chapel itself.

20. Alaska State Museum

The Alaska State Museum is definitely worth visiting, particularly for those interested in the history and culture of Alaska. 

It has a comprehensive collection of exhibits and artifacts showcasing the rich heritage of Alaska.

They also have some fantastic exhibits on contemporary Alaskan art, which change on a regular basis.

21. Alaskan Brewing Company

Do you appreciate beer? The Alaskan Brewing Company is one of the state’s most well-known breweries and has been producing beer since 1986.

They have a variety of beers, including their popular Alaskan Amber, Alaskan White, Alaskan Husky IPA, and seasonal brews.

The brewery offers guided tours of its facility and brewing process. They also have a tasting room where you can sample their beers and purchase merchandise.

22. Macaulay Salmon Hatchery

The Macaulay Salmon Hatchery, also known as the DIPAC (Douglas Island Pink & Chum) Hatchery, is located on the outskirts of Juneau, near the town of Douglas.

It’s approximately a 10-minute drive from downtown Juneau. The hatchery serves as a facility for breeding, rearing, and releasing salmon into the wild.

You can take fascinating guided tours to learn about the lifecycle of salmon, and witness the various stages of salmon development.

It’s a great way to learn about and understand the importance of hatcheries in maintaining sustainable salmon populations.

The best time to visit the Macaulay Salmon Hatchery is during the salmon runs, which typically occur from mid-July through early September.

23. Sealaska Heritage Museum

The Sealaska Heritage Foundation is an incredible nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples of Southeast Alaska.

It focuses on supporting Native arts, language, and education. The Walter Soboleff Building, located in downtown Juneau, is the headquarters of the foundation and serves as a cultural center and museum.

They host a range of amazing artifacts, including totem poles, carvings, regalia, and contemporary artwork. 

As a Tlingit member of Sealaska, I highly recommend making time for this unique and fantastic opportunity to learn about the symbolism, stories, and cultural significance of the Alaskan native people.

They’re incredible storytellers, but they also offer regular cultural events, must-see performances, and fascinating workshops as well.

24. Alaska State Capitol

The Alaska State Capitol is the government seat of Alaska and houses the offices of the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and the State Legislature.

The building itself is an architectural landmark, featuring elements of both neoclassical and art deco styles.

It has beautiful views of the surrounding mountains, waterways, and downtown Juneau.

You can also explore the building’s public areas, which often include exhibits and displays about Alaska’s history, government, and culture.

You may even have the chance to observe legislative proceedings from designated viewing areas when the legislature is in session.

25. Juneau-Douglas City Museum

The Juneau-Douglas Museum is dedicated to preserving and presenting the history and heritage of Juneau and the surrounding Douglas Island.

It has exhibits that explore various aspects of the region’s past, including its Native Alaskan cultures, mining history, fishing industry, natural environment, and more.

You can expect to find unique artifacts, photographs, documents, and interesting interactive displays that provide insights into the historical development of Juneau and its significance as the capital of Alaska.

26. AJ Mine Gastineau Mill Tour

The AJ Mine Gastineau Mill Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the history and operations of a historic gold mine. 

It’s a guided tour of the mine that operated during the peak of the gold mining industry in the early 20th century. 

The tour provides great insight into the processes involved in extracting gold and the challenges faced by miners during that time.

During the tour, you can explore the remnants of the mill, which include machinery, equipment, and exhibits related to the mining operations. 

27. Eaglecrest Ski Area

The Eaglecrest Ski Area is worth visiting any time of year.

In the winter, the ski area has terrain suitable for all skill levels, from beginner slopes to challenging runs for advanced skiers and snowboarders.

In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Eaglecrest offers other winter activities such as snowshoeing and Nordic skiing. 

There are a variety of summer activities at the ski area as well, including some great hiking, mountain biking, disc golf and scenic chair lifts.

28. Last Chance Mining Museum

You can dive into history hands-on by visiting the Last Chance Mining Museum, a small and charming family-run museum.

You’ll have the opportunity to learn more about Juneau’s history during the Klondike Gold Rush and do a little gold-panning yourself in the river adjacent to the museum.

It’s an especially great stop for families with small children.

Patsy Ann was “The Official Greeter of Juneau, Alaska” from 1929 until her passing 13 years later. 

Despite being deaf from birth, this bull terrier miraculously sensed the approach of ships through their whistles.

Grateful sailors and passengers often rewarded her with treats, establishing a mutually beneficial arrangement.

Half a century later, in July 1992, a life-size statue of Patsy Ann was unveiled on the cruise dock, commemorating her life of service to sailors and the town itself.

30. Glacier Bay National Park

Glacier Bay National Park is an absolutely beautiful, full-day trip on its own, one on which you don’t actually leave your cruise ship.

Only a few ships are allowed to enter the park each day and they do not dock while there. Check with your cruise line to see if this is an option for you.

If so, you’ll have the somewhat rare opportunity to see a major tidewater glacier and spot a variety of animals.

You may see humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, seals, porpoises, bald eagles, bears, mountain goats, and numerous bird species.  

If not, no worries! There are many similar opportunities for viewing glaciers and wild animals at Mendenhall, Tracy Arm Fjord, and the variety of sea kayaking or helicopter tours available.

31. Red Dog Saloon

Lastly, if you’re in the mood for an adventure, consider stopping in for a few minutes or even a meal at the Red Dog Saloon for some live music.

This is possibly the most uniquely Alaskan experience you can have.

From the swinging doors to the sawdust-covered floors to the overwhelming number of animal trophies on the walls and even hanging from the ceiling, you will get a fantastic perspective on Alaskan life for miners and panners. 

Pro Tip: Go with a sense of humor and a somewhat deaf ear. 

The live songs played there are the songs I grew up singing in elementary school and mostly revolve around the gold rush life of old.

Be prepared to buy a drink, a meal, or bravely ask if you can just listen to the music.  The worst they will do is say no, right?