Juneau is Alaska's capital city — a wonderful mix of small-town charm and big-city amenities with a population of approximately 31,000. In 1880, prospectors struck gold in Gold Creek and the Alaskan gold rush put Juneau on the map. Tourists have been drawn here ever since, not just for the prospect of riches but for the incredible scenery, abundant wildlife, and genuine frontier character.
Juneau is uniquely accessible only by air and sea — you cannot drive there — making every visit arrive by ship or plane. This geographic isolation has preserved the city's wild surroundings: Juneau is flanked by the Tongass National Forest (the largest in the United States), the Mendenhall Glacier, and the vast Juneau Icefield.
If you visit during the summer solstice (June 21st), you'll experience over 18 hours of daylight and the Midnight Sun — when the sun barely dips below the horizon, providing a constant glow that makes the landscape feel otherworldly.
Know Before You Go
Hot Tip
Juneau, Alaska – Quick Facts
Where You Dock in Juneau, Alaska
Pier locations and what's available at each terminal.
Juneau has three cruise docks — your berth depends on ship size and how many vessels are in port that day:
🚢 South Franklin Street Dock
The main cruise dock — directly across from downtown shops, galleries, and restaurants. The most convenient location with everything within easy walking distance. Tracy's King Crab Shack and the Mount Roberts Tramway are steps away.
🚢 AJ Dock
The furthest dock from the main amenities — but a tram connects AJ Dock to the main cruise terminal area. Don't be alarmed if you dock here; the tram makes it convenient.
🚢 Seadrome Dock
Used by smaller ships. Close proximity to downtown Juneau.
Getting Around Juneau, Alaska
Transportation options once you're ashore.
🚶 Walking
The South Franklin Street dock is surrounded by shops, galleries, and cafes within feet of the gangway. The Mount Roberts Tramway entrance and Tracy's King Crab Shack are a short walk along South Franklin. Downtown Juneau's historic area is an easy 10-minute walk from the main dock.
🚕 Taxis
Available at Marine Park — a short walk from the cruise terminal just past the public library. Rates are city-regulated and metered. Most taxi companies offer city and glacier tours for a per-ride (not per-person) rate — a good value for small groups wanting flexibility.
🚌 Shuttle Buses
Inexpensive bus shuttles offer rides to downtown and key local attractions including Mendenhall Glacier. Tickets are available at the visitor kiosks near the docks. The most affordable way to reach the glacier without a rental car.
🚗 Car Rental
All major car rental companies operate in Juneau — a good option for those wanting to explore the Mendenhall Valley, local state parks, and areas beyond downtown at their own pace. Remember: you cannot drive out of Juneau — roads only connect to the immediate surrounding area.
Things To Do in Juneau, Alaska
Make the most of your time ashore.
🎯 Juneau is one of Alaska's richest cruise ports for activities — glaciers, wildlife, history, and adventure all within reach:
Mendenhall Glacier — The most popular destination in Juneau — almost half a mile wide and up to 1,800 feet thick, part of the vast Juneau Icefield. Take the shuttle from downtown, walk the lakeside trails, and watch icebergs calve from the glacier face. The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center has excellent exhibits on glaciology and ecology. Note: the glacier has retreated significantly — current views differ from older photographs.
Mount Roberts Tramway — Takes passengers nearly vertically 1,800 feet to the summit of Mount Roberts with magnificent views of Juneau, Douglas, and the Gastineau Channel. At the top: a cafe, gift shop, nature center, hiking trails, and wildlife spotting. Fully accessible. Entrance is within easy walking distance of the South Franklin dock. One of the best-value experiences in Juneau.
Whale Watching — The waters around Juneau and in Stephens Passage are among the finest humpback whale feeding grounds in Alaska. Whale watching tours from Juneau have extraordinary success rates — humpback whales, orcas, Steller sea lions, and Dall's porpoises are commonly encountered. Book well in advance for peak season (June–August).
Juneau-Douglas City Museum — Located at the corner of 4th and Main in downtown Juneau. Excellent exhibits on Juneau's history from its origins through the gold rush to its role as Alaska's capital. A worthwhile hour for history enthusiasts — small admission fee.
Alaskan Brewing Company — Visit the downtown Franklin Street depot location and take their shuttle to the brewery and tasting room. Sample Alaska's most famous craft beers and learn how they're made. The downtown depot also offers a virtual brewery tour and gallery on the company's history. Note: tastings are only at the brewery, not the downtown depot.
Flightseeing over the Juneau Icefield — An aerial perspective on the Juneau Icefield — one of the largest icefields in North America — is one of the most extraordinary experiences available from any Alaska cruise port. Small planes and helicopters offer glacier landings and fly-overs of dozens of named glaciers. Book well in advance.
Beaches & Outdoors in Juneau, Alaska
The best beaches, parks, and outdoor experiences for cruise passengers.
Mendenhall Lake Shore
The lakeside area at the foot of the Mendenhall Glacier offers extraordinary access to the glacial environment — icebergs float in the lake, bears patrol the shoreline in summer, and the glacier wall is visible across the water. One of the most dramatic natural shorelines accessible from any Alaska cruise port.
Coastal Trails & Tidal Flats
The shorelines, tidal flats, and coastal rainforest around Juneau are spectacular for walking and wildlife watching — bald eagles, harbor seals, and shorebirds are commonly spotted. The Gastineau Channel waterfront near downtown offers easy coastal access directly from the pier.
Shopping in Juneau, Alaska
Where to shop and what to look for.
🛍️ Juneau has a good range of shopping — from the typical cruise port retail near the docks to genuinely local boutiques as you head into the historic downtown:
South Franklin Street — Port Area
Directly across from the main dock — the typical cruise port mix of duty-free jewelry (Diamonds International), souvenir stores, and gift shops. Convenient but not particularly distinctive. Keep walking up South Franklin to reach more interesting options.
Historic Downtown Juneau
Continue up South Franklin Street into Juneau's historic downtown for a genuinely different shopping experience — locally made soaps, handcrafted jewelry, Alaska Native art, galleries, and independent boutiques. Far more interesting than the port-adjacent strip and only a 10-minute walk.
Mendenhall Valley
North of Juneau International Airport on the way to Mendenhall Glacier — Nugget Mall and Mendenhall Mall have grocery stores, pharmacies, and familiar chain retailers. The best option for practical shopping and everyday needs, though not primarily a tourist destination.
Dining in Juneau, Alaska
Where to eat and drink ashore.
🍽️ Juneau's proximity to some of the world's richest fishing grounds means the seafood is extraordinary — fresh Alaska king crab, halibut, salmon, and Dungeness crab are the stars. Some of Alaska's oldest restaurants also call Juneau home:
Tracy's King Crab Shack
S. Franklin Street beside the Cruise Terminal (behind Trove) · #1 rated in Juneau
The most famous and consistently praised restaurant at the Juneau cruise port — fresh Alaska king crab legs, crab bisque, and crab cakes. A line often forms early but moves quickly. Worth every penny and worth the wait. The definitive Juneau dining experience.
Twisted Fish Co. Alaskan Grill
S. Franklin Street, Taku Smokeries Building · Casual Waterfront Dining
Casual waterfront dining steps from the pier — fresh Alaska seafood, burgers, and local favorites with Gastineau Channel views. A reliable and popular choice for a quick, quality lunch.
Red Dog Saloon
S. Franklin Street, past the library
A real Wild West saloon in Alaska — sawdust floors, honky-tonk piano, and walls covered in decades of visitor memorabilia. More of a cultural experience than a fine dining destination, but genuinely fun and unmistakably Juneau.
Island Pub
1102 2nd Street, Douglas (across the bridge)
A beloved local pub known for its gourmet pizza — worth the short trip across the bridge to Douglas Island for a less touristy, more local experience.
The Rookery Cafe
111 Seward Street · Downtown
Stumptown Coffee, excellent sandwiches, salads, and burgers. One of Juneau's most consistently praised cafes for a relaxed breakfast or lunch away from the cruise ship crowds.
Silverbow Bakery
120 2nd Street · Downtown
The oldest continually operating bakery in Alaska — fresh-baked breads, pastries, and sandwiches in a historic downtown setting. A genuine piece of Juneau history and a wonderful stop for breakfast or a mid-morning coffee.
Top Tours & Shore Excursions
Book before you board for best availability and pricing.
Exclusive Whale Watching Cruise
⏱ 3.5 hours · Low activity
Enjoy your small group tour with comfortable ride on a cabin cruiser, you will see these majestic mammals as well as oth...
Book This Tour →Helicopter Dog Sledding
⏱ 3 hours · Low activity
Board a helicopter for this high-flying adventure as your soar over the Juneau ice field and see the Mendenhall Glacier ...
Book This Tour →Juneau City & Mendenhall Glacier Tour
⏱ 2.75 hours · Low activity
This tour begins in downtown Juneau, where you’ll see the State Capitol and Governor’s Mansion, then make your way throu...
Book This Tour →Juneau, Alaska – FAQ
Common questions from cruise passengers.
What is Juneau Alaska known for?
Juneau is Alaska's capital city and one of the most scenic cruise ports in the world. It's known for the Mendenhall Glacier, excellent whale watching, helicopter glacier tours, dog sledding, and the charming historic downtown district.
Can I walk from the cruise ship in Juneau?
Yes — the cruise terminal is right in downtown Juneau. The main shopping street, local restaurants, the Red Dog Saloon, and the Mount Roberts Tramway are all within easy walking distance.
What is the Mendenhall Glacier?
The Mendenhall Glacier is a 13-mile-long glacier flowing out of the Juneau Icefield. You can walk right up to the glacier face at the Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area — it's one of the most accessible glaciers in Alaska.
What wildlife can I see in Juneau?
Humpback whales, orca, Steller sea lions, harbor seals, bald eagles, and brown bears are all commonly spotted around Juneau. Whale watching excursions have exceptional success rates.
Cruise Passenger Tips & Photos
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