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26 Best & Fun Things to Do in Juneau, Alaska

Alaska is one of the most underrated places to visit in the United States, and those that take the path less traveled are met with undeniable beauty. If you’re planning a trip to Alaska, Juneau is a great place to start, especially if you’re a nature lover.

Juneau is the capital city of Alaska, known for its stunning natural beauty, notably the Mendenhall Glacier and the Juneau Icefield. Located in the Tongass National Forest, the city offers various activities like hiking on Mount Roberts Trail, whale watching, and exploring the ice caves of the Mendenhall Glacier. Juneau’s Downtown area is renowned for its rich cultural scene, featuring art galleries, museums, and the historic Alaska State Capitol building.

Most people visit Juneau to explore the raw, rugged landscape, so be sure to pack your best hiking boots for this epic excursion. What are some things that make Juneau one of the best places to vacation in the U.S.? Read on to discover some of the most popular things to do in Juneau, Alaska.

TL;DR

  • Most significant landmark – Mendenhall Glacier 
  • Best park – Glacier Bay National Park
  • Best free activity – West Glacier Trail
  • Best activity for kids – Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure
  • Best activity for adults – Whale watching
  • Best food – Gold Creek Salmon Bake
  • Best nightlife – Red Dog Saloon
  • Best place to stay – Alaskan Hotel and Bar

Things to Do in Juneau, Alaska

1. Take a Helicopter Tour of the Juneau Icefield

Mendenhall Glacier expedition, Juneau Icefield, Alaska
supertramp8 / Adobe Stock

Located north of Juneau and continuing to the border with British Columbia, the Juneau Icefield is home to nearly 150 glaciers of various sizes, including the Mendenhall Glacier and the Taku Glacier – we’ll get to those in a second. While both glaciers deserve individual spots on this list, the icefield is for those who want to explore the Tongass National Forest further.

We’d recommend a flyover tour to get the best experience. These helicopter tours will give you a bird’s eye view of Juneau’s landscape before landing on Herbert Glacier, where you can hop out and take a memorable icefield walk. The trip takes just a few hours and can easily be paired with another outdoor adventure like exploring historic downtown.

See Related: Things to know before visiting Alaska

2. Get to Know Mendenhall Glacier

Mendenhall Glacier in Juneau

Address: Juneau, AK 99801, United States

Perhaps one of the most iconic things to do in Juneau is visiting out the Mendenhall Glacier. This beautiful glacier formed over 3,000 years ago! You can explore ice caves on a Mendenhall ice caves tour and really get to know the chilliest American topography. This is an amazing experience and a big tourist attraction that offers spectacular scener during the summer months.

Check out the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center to learn about the glacier and its formation, as well as to learn about how it is changing with our changing climate. It also offers an incredible view of the glacial lake and the glacier itself.

Want to hike Mendenhall? Head out on the West Glacier trail to get up close and personal with the glacier. A longer, more difficult hike leads you to the glacier and access to the Mendenhall Glacier ice cave. (Disclaimer: Ice caves can be extremely dangerous and should only be accessed with a professional.)

On the East Glacier Loop and other trails nearby, easier hikes will give you access to Mendenhall Lake and a close view of Nugget Falls. Regardless of which trail you take, this is considered one of Juneau’s premier sightseeing spots.

See Related: Best Places to Travel in Alaska

3. Take a Hike! Explore Juneau’s Easy Trails

Hiking Around Juneau, Alaska

Many visit Juneau to experience the beautiful natural surroundings; hiking is the best way to take it all in. Some of our favorite hiking trails near Juneau are beginner friendly, including:

  • Gastineau Meadows Trail (1.5 miles)- This trail explores the tiny island across from Juneau named Douglas. The meandering trail winds through the meadows where you can catch glimpses of wildlife, such as pollinators, deer, and many birds.
  • Treadwell Mine Ruins (2 miles)- Located on Douglas, the Treadwell Mine Ruins is a moderate loop that offers a nice hiking trail and abundant bird watching. The loop leads to the old gold mine remains and offers historical markers along the way. (Don’t get this confused with the Treadwell Ditch Trail, as this trail leads anywhere from 14 to 29 miles through Douglas, only for experienced hikers!)
  • Airport Trail (1.5-3 miles)- An easy trail for beginners, or someone looking to walk their dog on easy terrain, this meandering trail is suitable for all ages. Walking along the outer edge of the Juneau airport, the trail is a favorite among all locals. After the trail veers and the river empties into the Lynn Canal, you can either turn back or continue another 1.5 miles to the trail’s end.
  • Rainforest Trail (1 mile)- Located on the north end of Douglas, the Rainforest Trail loops through a wooded area with an easily graded trail that leads you down to the ocean. The trail is an easy walk for most. Even in the winter, the path is heavily used so there isn’t any deep snow to worry about. Once down to the ocean, you can walk either north or south on the trails and will encounter rocky beaches when the tide is out. Keep your eyes peeled on the ocean as you can see multiple types of ducks, birds, and possibly even a seal or sea lion!

See Related: Best National Parks to Visit in November

4. Break a Sweat on Challenging Mountain Trails

View from Mount Roberts Tramway

Once you’ve tackled the beginner-friendly trails near Juneau, step up your hiking game and explore some next-level hikes. These hikes are for more experienced hikers and can be very dangerous if you’re not careful, so make sure you’ve got the skills before you arrive at the trailhead.

  • Mount Roberts Trail (7.6 Miles) – This beautiful mountain trail leads up the side of Mount Roberts to the very peak (if you’re brave enough). The best time to traverse the Mount Roberts trail is between June-September. If you explore Mount Roberts during the spring or winter seasons, be sure to bring your heavy boots, rain, and snow gear. The trail gets incredibly muddy and snowy during these seasons and can be dangerous. This trail is not for the inexperienced hiker.
  • Mount Jumbo (7 Miles) – The elevation gain is slightly over 3,000 feet! Once to the top, the views are practically 360 degrees around. In the summer, wild blueberries grow all over the trails. This trail is recommended for summer use only; the spring washes out most of the trail with all the rain. In the winter, the trail is covered in minimum knee-deep snow, with minimal trail visibility.
  • Mount Juneau (6.8 Miles) – Located just two miles from downtown, this mountain trail leads you to one of Juneau’s premier peaks. With an elevation gain of over 3,500 feet, this hike is not for the inexperienced. The abundance of views from the peaks of Mount Juneau is endless and will leave you breathless, literally. Only recommended during spring through fall seasons, Mount Juneau is difficult on a sunny day, let alone during the rainy season during a washout. Avalanches are a real threat during the winter months, so Mount Juneau is never recommended during the winter season.

Can’t get enough of great hikes? Add Anchorage to your Alaskan adventure and check out more unreal scenery. The Savage River Loop and Horseshoe Lake trails are two of our favorites near Denali National Park, and we’ve covered them in depth.

See Related: Ultimate Denali National Park Itinerary

5. Go on a Fishing Charter

Fishing Boat in Harbor of Juneau, Alaska

Want to make all your friends jealous back home? Sign up for a fishing charter and earn your catch of fresh halibut or one of the five salmon species available in the waters.

This is a great way to explore the area and see the outdoor activities Juneau has to offer. Full-day and half-day charters are available, and usually, a boat limit of six people is set to ensure plenty of fishing for yourselves. 

Of course, there are catch and size limits, and an Alaska fishing license is required. Most charters have licenses for sale before going out. Otherwise, any local Juneau retailer will most likely have them.

Once your group is done for the day and your cooler is stocked, head to one of the local processors, where they can process, smoke, and freeze your catch for its journey back home. Talk about fresh seafood! You’ll be the buzz of all of your friends, especially when they bite into a fresh-caught Alaskan fish for the first time.

See Related: Best Fishing Spots in America to Visit

6. Go Bear Watching on Admiralty Island

Brown Bear in Alaska

Admiralty Island National Monument is home to a highly dense population of brown bears. This island is said to have some of the best wild bear viewings in their natural habitat in the entire world.

There is a bear area here called Pack Creek Wildlife Viewing Site on the northeast corner of Admiralty Island. It’s said it is possible to see as many as 25 bears at once feasting on salmon in the rivers. The area is home to more than just brown bears, though. Visitors to Admiralty Island also can see bald eagles and Sitka black-tailed deer.

Spot bears at the mouth of Pack Creek, or if you’re up for a walk, take the one-mile hike to the Observation Tower. You’ll need to obtain a day use permit between April 1st and September 30th, and only 24 people are allowed in the Pack Creek Wildlife Viewing Site per day.

There are only a few ways to access Admiralty Island, so make sure you have a reservation with a seaplane, boat, or kayak. Getting there is half the fun, though – it’s a perfect day-trip adventure. Admiralty Island is about a 40-mile trek south of the capital city.

See Related: Best Helicopter Tours in Denali

7. Taku Glacier

Taku Glacier in Alaska

Address: Juneau, AK 99801, USA, United States

If you chose visiting Juneau over Anchorage, it’s probably because of places like the Taku Glacier. It is over 50 kilometers long and was created during a previous ice age.

Here are some things to know about the Taku Glacier:

  1. Taku Glacier is over 30 miles long and was created during a previous ice age.
  2. The Taku River flows from the glacier’s melting water and is one of the best places in Southeast Alaska for fishing.
  3. You can see the glacier by air, water, or land; each has its benefits. If you like the adrenaline rush, you can go on a flightseeing or helicopter tour.
  4. Visitors to Juneau will need to rent lodging to stay the night; this is available at hotels and inns scattered around the city, such as the Taku Glacier Lodge, which offers rooms with a view of the surrounding mountains and lakes.
  5. Visitors should be prepared for harsh weather conditions that Alaska is well known for, like rain, snow, and summer heat.

The views are breathtaking! This adventure is perfect for those who want to enjoy nature and learn some of its secrets. Book your stay at the Taku Glacier Lodge in advance, as it’s incredibly popular.

See Related: Best Cabin Rentals in Denali National Park

8. Totem Bight State Park

Totem Bight State Park

Address: 9883 N Tongass Hwy, Ketchikan, AK 99901, United States

Located in southeast Alaska, Totem Bight State Park has over 500 totem poles dating back centuries. There’s a beautiful seaside boardwalk extending out onto the rocks so you can view the ocean as you walk along.

You can also take in the views of The Mendenhall Glacier from this vantage point. You can also enjoy a whole day of fishing or take a guided tour through the forest and learn about things like bears, whales, fungi, and more!

Totem Bight State Park is open all year round, and guided walking tours are offered several times a week.

See Related: Best Things to Do in Fairbanks, Alaska

9. Take an Alaskan Cruise

Cruise Ship in Juneau

I’m generally not a big fan of cruise ships. However, an Alaskan cruise differs slightly from most other cruise ships, and it is one of the best ways to take in mostly undeveloped scenery. Alaskan cruises allow families to take in what makes Alaska great.

The boat will have lots of things for kids and adults to enjoy. The most popular cruise ships for an Alaskan cruise are:

  • Alaska Dream: The Alaska Dream has things for everyone on board. From ice carving demonstrations and game shows to things the kids will enjoy, it provides many options to suit multiple interests on this cruise ship.
  • Norwegian Pearl: Norwegian Pearl is also a great option. The things that the kids will enjoy on the boat are things like ice skating, pools, and arcades.
  • Disney Wonder: Disney Cruise is an ideal destination for family fun. The cruise offers plenty of things to keep kids and adults engaged, including arcade games or Broadway-style productions.

The best time to go on an Alaskan cruise is between September and May. If you’re looking for a good deal, consider cruising in either October or November. The cruise ship terminal is downtown, making a cruise ship dock side-to-shore transfer seamless. If you are heading on a cruise, check out our free Alaskan cruise packing checklist.

See Related: Denali National Park Packing Checklist

10. Go on a Whale Watching Tour

Whale in Juneau, Alaska

You might be surprised to learn that whale-watching is one of the most popular things in Juneau, but it is! Whale watching is a great opportunity to see these enormous mammals up close while on the water and get the best view of their size and beauty.

The most popular whale-watching tours in Juneau include the short, three-hour tour by boat and the six-to-eight-hour excursion that takes one out deep into the waters of Lynn Canal. You can also double-up your tours and combine them! This whale-watching cruise also includes a Mendenhall Glacier tour!

See if you can spot humpback whales during your tour. The humpback whale is a baleen whale that commonly inhabits the waters of Alaska, and it’s a magical sight to see this massive creature breach the water.

The best time to go whale-watching in Alaska is June to October. Just ensure you’ve brought along a jacket, as it can get windy and cold out on the water! 

See Related: Best Travel Hoodies

11. Visit Douglas Island

Juneau-Douglas Bridge, Alaska

Address: Juneau, Alaska, United States

Southeast Alaska’s Douglas Island is a tidal island that is home to a lot of the best attractions in Juneau. The Treadwell gold mine, the only sand beach in the area (appropriately named Sandy Beach), Eaglecrest Ski Area, and the Perseverance Theater will all draw you to spend time on Douglas.

Douglas Island’s uniqueness stems from its geographical location as it is situated on one side of a narrow passage at the head of the Gastineau Channel, which separates Juneau from the mainland. The best time to visit Douglas Island is during the fall when the leaves start to change, but peak season is anytime between June and September.

See Related: Best Hotels in Fairbanks, Alaska

12. Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure

Glacier Gardens Rainforest in Alaska

Address: 7600 Glacier Hwy, Juneau, AK 99801, United States

Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure is one of Juneau’s best-kept secrets. This rainforest is located just minutes from downtown Juneau and offers an outdoor adventure like no other.

The best time to visit Glacier Gardens is between May and September when the weather is warm, and there are more daylight hours. During your visit to Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure, you’ll ride in covered vehicles that carry you through temperate rainforests and give you a fantastic view over downtown Juneau.

If you’re not looking to get out into the wilderness on a hike or a backpacking adventure, this is the activity for you. The narration highlights various plant life, thriving botanical gardens, and often-seen bald eagles.

See Related: Things to Do in Homer, Alaska

13. Alaska State Museum Juneau

Entrance to the Alaska State Museum Juneau
Stephanie L / Tripadvisor

Address: 395 Whittier St, Juneau, AK 99801, United States

The Alaska National Museum Juneau aims to collect and conserve natural aspects of Alaska’s history for public viewing and consumption. The museum has permanent and temporary exhibits intended to provide information on Native Alaskan culture and current American culture, art, and music.

Alaska State Museum features Dynamic Alaska Native Art, a hands-on exhibit that explores the art, music, and culture of the indigenous people of Alaska. It is interactive and engaging for all ages.

14. Juneau-Douglas City Museum

Address: 114 W 4th St, Juneau, AK 99801, United States

As you explore Juneau, don’t pass up an opportunity to check out this unique museum. Acknowledged as one of the best small-town museums in Alaska, Juneau-Douglas City Museum is a hidden gem that should not be missed!

The museum seeks to preserve Juneau’s rich and varied history through exhibitions highlighting the mines, fishing, and Juneau’s cultural traditions. It’s sure to educate and entertain visitors of all ages.

See Related: Best Museums in America

15. Admire the Views in Tracey Arm Fjord

Tracey Arm Fjord with Icebergs

Address: Tracy Arm Fjord, Juneau, AK 99801, United States

Tracy Arm Fjord is a popular destination for tourists looking to enjoy Alaska’s natural beauty. The fjord can only be accessed by boat or plane, and local outfitters provide full-day tours near Tracy Arm Fjord perfect for those who want to experience all that this area has to offer.

The Fjord is popular for whale watching and boat tours, and the incredible landscape of staggering cliffs, mountains, and valleys makes this a gorgeous gem in Tongass National Forest. If you’re in Juneau to see scenery, add a visit to Tracy Arm to the top of your list.

16. Mount Roberts Tramway

View of Juneau from the Mount Roberts Tramway

Address: 490 S Franklin St, Juneau, AK 99801, United States

Mount Roberts Tramway is the most popular aerial tramway in southeast Alaska, and the service runs from April to August. Cars begin at the terminal cruise station in downtown Juneau, and those parked on the road reach the mountain house, which stretches 1,700 feet through the rain forests.

While enjoying the expansive views from the Juneau and Gastineau channels, passengers can explore Mount Roberts Nature Centre and The Chilkat Theater. The Timberline Bar and Grill is on Mount Roberts, near the Raven Eagle gift shop and gallery.

Tram ride tickets can be purchased as all-night tickets at the railway station. Young children are welcome to take part in free shuttle rides. Mount Roberts Tramway is a great way to see southeast Alaska’s natural beauty while enjoying some of the amenities of downtown Juneau.

See Related: How much does a trip to Alaska cost?

17. Hit the Slopes at Eaglecrest Ski Area

Top of Eaglecrest Alaska

Address: 3000 Fish Creek Rd, Juneau, AK 99801, United States

The possibilities for outdoor activities in Juneau are nearly endless. Even though the town is considered “small,” there is no shortage of outdoor territory to explore.

If you are into winter sports then this is the community for you! With large amounts of heavy snow during the winter season, Juneau is home to one of the best Alaskan ski and snowboard resorts. Eaglecrest offers everything from groomed beginner runs to deep backcountry powder, plus cross-country skiing.

See Related: Best Winter Travel Clothes for Cold Weather

18. Downtown Juneau

 View of Franklin Street looking north in the old city district of Juneau, Alaska
pabrady63 – stock.adobe.com

While exploring glaciers and fjords is certainly high ranking on our list of things to do in Juneau, don’t forget about the downtown scene. The Juneau Downtown Historic District extends from the cruise terminal northwards toward Second Street and boasts an endless array of restaurants, museums, and shopping opportunities.

Once the center of a gold mining camp, today, the downtown area of Alaska’s capital city consists of over 40 buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. While enjoying your walking tour, watch for Juneau Voices, a series of location-specific sound installations where you’ll hear stories of Juneau from the locals who lived them. 

Be sure to swing by the famous Red Dog Saloon for some grub, and while you’re at it, order the specialty shot, a duck fart! And if you’re interested in beer, the Alaskan Brewing Company isn’t far away and offers several beers (both on tap and canned) plus tons of merch to take home.

A self-guided tour of downtown Juneau is our recommendation. The Alaskan Hotel and Bar is highly recommended if you consider staying in Juneau. Built in 1913, it is the oldest hotel in Juneau, and it’s nearby to the Mt. Roberts Tramway and many of downtown Juneau’s attractions. 

See Related: Most Beautiful Places in the World

19. Glacier Bay National Park

Mountain range in Glacier Bay National Park
Ania MW / TripAdvisor

Spanning 3.3 million acres of mountains, glaciers, rainforests, and fjords, Glacier Bay National Park is an absolute must for anyone visiting Juneau, Alaska. The only way to get to this UNESCO World Heritage Site is by boat or plane, so plan accordingly! The Alaska Marine Highway Ferry is the easiest way, though many cruise ships stop here, too.

Regardless of how you get here, you’ll want ample time to explore this natural oasis. Start your adventure exploring Bartlett Cove, the only developed area within the park. Here, you’ll find Glacier Bay Lodge, the visitor center, the park headquarters, and access to several hiking trails and kayak rentals.  

See Related: Best National Parks in the United States

20. Gold Creek Salmon Bake

Gold Creek Salmon Bake  in Juneau
Juneau Gold Creek Salmon Bake / Viator

Ready to feast like royalty on wild Alaska salmon? The Gold Creek Salmon Bake is an all-you-can-eat Alaskan feast that also includes the opportunity to sift for gold at Wagner Mine and even watch a Tlingit Master Carver work on totem poles and silver. 

In addition to all-you-can-eat salmon, you’ll be tempted with blueberry cake, roasting marshmallows over an open fire, and enjoy the sights and sounds of the nearby Salmon Creek waterfall. 

This is one tour that truly offers history, nature, culture, and food. Plus, you may even find some gold!

See Related: Strange Foods in America You Should Try

21. Last Chance Mining Museum

Exhibit in Last Chance Mining Museum
Last Chance Mining Museum / Facebook

Address: 1001 Basin Road, Juneau, AK 99801

Alaska has a very special relationship with gold mining, and the Last Chance Mining Museum (also known as the Jualpa Mining Camp) sits at the site of what was once the largest gold found in the Juneau mining district. 

Between 1910-1944, the mine produced more than $80 million worth of gold, and there are over 20 surviving structures in the area that you can check out during your visit. This includes the world’s largest air compressor! Naturally, you’ll want to pop your head into the gift shop to grab a souvenir to remember your visit.

Before your visit, it’s important to note that this is a seasonal museum, and it’s dependent on Basin Road being open. As of 2023, the museum is slated to open for the season in mid-June, but be sure to give them a follow on Facebook to stay up to date. 

If the museum is closed during your visit, you may be interested in this gold panning tour where you can pan for gold along Gold Creek and Last Chance Basin. You’ll learn all about the history of the Gold Rush, and you get to keep any gold you find!

22. Nugget Falls

Nugget Falls waterfall at Mendenhall Glacier in Juneau, Alaska
Joni Hanebutt / Shutterstock

Address: Juneau, AK 99801, USA

If you’re planning to see Mendenhall Glacier, be sure to carve out some time to see Nugget Falls while you’re in the area. Formed by the creek from Nugget Glacier, Nugget Falls is a 377-foot waterfall in Alaska that flows into Mendenhall Lake. 

There are two drops to this waterfall, one is 278 feet, and the other is 99 feet. While it may not be the tallest waterfall in Alaska, it’s certainly one of the most beautiful! If you’re curious, the tallest waterfall in Alaska is Pitchfork Falls in Skagway which clocks in at a staggering 2,000 feet! 

The waterfall goes by many names, including Nugget Creek Falls and Mendenhall Glacier Falls. The hike to reach it is about a mile long and is flat enough that many visitors can easily push strollers, wheelchairs, and bicycles. 

A round trip to the falls and back to the Mendenhall Glacier Visitors Center will take you about an hour. Still, with endless photo opportunities and beautiful views along the way, this is one hike where time can quickly escape you if you’re not careful!

See Related: Best Hiking Trails in the World

23. The Hangar on the Wharf

Hangar on the Wharf interior
Hangar on the Wharf / Facebook

Address: 2 Marine Way Ste 106, Juneau, AK 99801

Nicknamed “Juneau’s Favorite Restaurant,” this waterfront restaurant in downtown Juneau will surely be one of your favorite places to eat in Alaska. The restaurant’s location was once Juneau’s original hangar and honors Alaska’s aviation heritage with plenty of avian-themed decor and menu items. Plus, the waterfront views here are just as good as the food.

Speaking of the menu, prepare to feast! The Hangar on the Wharf has one of the largest menus in Juneau, so rest assured there’s something for every taste bud. Naturally, the emphasis here is on fresh Alaskan seafood, but you’ll also find a plethora of hearty burgers, soups, and salads.

The king crab here is second to none and worthy of a splurge, so treat yourself to a heaping pile of Alaskan king crab that’s as royal as you are. After all, half the reason you’re here is for the seafood, right?

On the bar side, the restaurant serves over 120 beers, including 25 on tap, many of which are from local and regional craft breweries. There are also plenty of signature cocktails and wines to please every palette. While you’re dining, keep an eye out on the water, and you might see a floatplane take off or land nearby.

See Related: Best Family-Friendly Vacation Spots

24. Twisted Fish Company

Twisted Fish Company in Juneau

Address: 550 S Franklin St, Juneau, AK 99801, United States

If you love seafood, do yourself a favor and eat at Twisted Fish Company. This establishment knows how to prepare a meal. Pairing local ingredients and fresh seafood sourced in Alaska, this restaurant is a must on the list of things to do in Juneau.

Their extensive menu gives forth a range of options for all palates. With many appetizer options, or as they call them, Nibblesstart your meal off with fresh seafood—oysters on the half shell, crab-artichoke dip, or a number of ways to consume salmon.

Of course, you could dive right in and get the full pound of jumbo king crab claws served with lemon and butter. There are so many seafood options it is hard to choose just one dish!

Don’t worry; those who aren’t seafood fans can still eat at Twisted Fish Company. There is an entire section on the menu for Landlubbers. Big slices of meat served with classic sides, hamburgers, and pizza options. This is the place to go in downtown Juneau, Alaska, if you want a casual dining, waterfront, surf-and-turf experience.

25. Go on a Dogsledding Adventure in Juneau

Helicopter Dogsledding Experience and Additional Glacier Landing
Juneau Dogsledding Experience / Viator

Unleash your inner adventurer and experience the thrill of dogsledding in the heart of Juneau, Alaska. This isn’t just an activity, it’s a journey into the wild, a chance to bond with a team of spirited huskies and feel the rush of the icy wind against your face as you glide through the snow-covered landscapes.

The backdrop? The majestic peaks of the Juneau Icefield and the untouched beauty of the Tongass National Forest. It’s a slice of Alaskan life that’s as authentic as it gets.

So, buckle up, hold on tight, and let the dogs lead the way. This is one adventure that will leave you with memories that last a lifetime.

26. Drive the Glacier Highway to the Shrine of St. Therese

Sainte Therese church near Juneau, Alaska
Jef Wodniack / Shutterstock.com

One of the best things to do in Juneau is to take a scenic drive along the Glacier Highway, a route that offers breathtaking views of Juneau’s natural beauty. Your destination? The serene Shrine of St. Therese. Nestled on the shores of the Pacific, this spiritual retreat offers a tranquil respite from city life.

As you drive, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the Mendenhall Glacier and the vast expanse of the Juneau Icefield. Along the way, keep an eye out for eagles soaring overhead and black bears ambling along the shoreline.

Once at the shrine, take a moment to soak in the peace and tranquility, and let the beauty of nature fill your senses. This is more than just a drive, it’s a journey of discovery and reflection.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the best things to do in Juneau, Alaska?

Famous Juneau attractions include Mendenhall Glacier, Mount Roberts Tramway, The Tread of Pioneers Museum, and many local shops and eateries. Plenty of outdoor activities include hiking trails and kayaking or canoeing at Glacier Bay National Park when it is open in the summer.

Are there any wildlife-viewing opportunities in Juneau, Alaska?

Whale watching and watching bears feed on salmon are two of Juneau, Alaska’s most popular wildlife-viewing opportunities. Whale watching is best done by booking a tour that will take you on a 3-4 hour excursion on the hunt for humpbacks and orcas, two of the most popular whales in Alaska.

On land, visitors can take a floatplane to nearby Admiralty Island, one of the largest populations of brown bears in the world. Peak viewing season for bears is July-August, and you might even see some harbor seals, sea lions, and bald eagles along the way. 

What are the must-see attractions in Juneau, Alaska?

The top three must-see attractions in Juneau include the Mendenhall Glacier, the Tracy Arm Fjord, and whale watching. Mendenhall Glacier is a half-mile wide and constantly moving and changing, so no two visits are the same. Tracy Arm Fjord is a 30-mile-long fjord with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and wildlife, including bald eagles, brown bears, mountain goats, and whales. 

What is the weather like in Juneau, Alaska, during summer?

Summer in Juneau, Alaska, averages around 60-65 degrees. The warmest months are June, July, and August, with August temperatures maxing out just under 70 degrees. Juneau sees about 230 days of precipitation annually, so you might want to have some rainy-day activities planned during your visit. 

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