Juneau is a place where wilderness and wonder collide—Alaska’s capital city is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, sprawling glaciers, and wildlife-filled waters. With no roads in or out of the city, it feels like a remote frontier, yet its downtown buzzes with charm, culture, and rugged character. This isn’t your typical capital city. Juneau bursts with scenery, history, and Native heritage that make it as unique as it is beautiful. Whether you’re kayaking past icebergs, spotting humpbacks in the bay, or riding a tram through misty mountain air, Juneau brings nature close and adventure even closer. It’s wild, breathtaking, and packed with once-in-a-lifetime moments—just the way Alaska should be.
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Must-See Attractions
Mendelhall Glacier & Visitor Center
Just 12 miles from downtown, Mendenhall Glacier is the star of Juneau—and a jaw-dropping introduction to Alaska’s glacial power. Hike the trails, watch chunks of ice calve into the lake, or stop by the visitor center for glacier facts and floor-to-ceiling views. Whether you’re admiring it from afar or kayaking near the edge, the glacier’s icy blue majesty never fails to impress. It’s one of those “you-have-to-see-it-to-believe-it” experiences.
Tracy Arm Fjord
Carved by ancient ice and surrounded by towering cliffs, Tracy Arm Fjord is a 30-mile stretch of pure Alaskan drama. Cruise through waters dotted with floating ice, past cascading waterfalls, and all the way to the twin Sawyer Glaciers. Keep your camera ready—seals, bears, and even orcas make surprise appearances. It’s a cinematic slice of the Last Frontier, best enjoyed from the deck of a boat with cold air and wide eyes.
Nugget Falls
Just a short, scenic walk from Mendenhall Glacier, Nugget Falls is one of those natural wonders that’s both powerful and peaceful. The thunder of water crashing into the lake is pure sensory magic, and the view of the glacier behind it? Unreal. The trail is flat, family-friendly, and perfect for photo ops. You might just get misted, but you’re guaranteed to love every second of it.
Sentinel Island Lighthouse
Located on a tiny island just off the coast, the Sentinel Island Lighthouse is a postcard-perfect beacon that’s as historic as it is photogenic. Boat tours bring you up close to this charming landmark while serving up epic views of the Lynn Canal and surrounding mountains. It’s a peaceful pause on the water—and one of Juneau’s hidden gems. For lighthouse lovers and maritime dreamers, it’s a must.
National Shrine of St. Therese
Tucked along a forested stretch of the coast, this serene spiritual site is as much about setting as it is about faith. Walk the wooded path to a stone chapel perched at the water’s edge, where waves lap against rocks and bald eagles soar overhead. Whether you’re religious or just seeking stillness, the Shrine offers peace, perspective, and quiet beauty. It’s one of the most tranquil corners of Juneau.
Featured Tour
Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching
This whale watching tour from Juneau offers a front-row seat to one of Alaska’s most awe-inspiring natural spectacles. Cruise through the waters of Auke Bay, where orcas and humpbacks frequently breach, dive, and tail-slap in full view. Along the way, enjoy scenic sights like the distant Mendenhall Glacier and the rugged coastline that makes this region unforgettable. With expert guides and stunning wildlife encounters, it’s an unforgettable way to experience the wild heart of Alaska.
Family-Friendly Fun
Alaska State Museum
Packed with interactive exhibits, native Alaskan artifacts, and natural history displays, the Alaska State Museum is a treasure trove for curious minds of all ages. Learn about Indigenous cultures, Gold Rush tales, and the unique wildlife that call this state home. It’s educational, without feeling stuffy, and a perfect indoor option on rainy days. Bonus: the gift shop is full of locally made gems.
Glacier Gardens
This lush oasis in the Tongass National Forest flips your idea of a garden—literally. With its upside-down flower towers, waterfall paths, and guided tram ride to a sweeping mountain overlook, Glacier Gardens is as quirky as it is beautiful. It’s part rainforest, part botanical garden, and a completely enchanting escape for nature lovers, families, and anyone who thinks they’ve seen it all.
Goldbelt Tram
Soar 1,800 feet above sea level in just a few minutes aboard the Goldbelt Tram—Juneau’s scenic lift to the top of Mount Roberts. At the summit, enjoy panoramic views of downtown, the Gastineau Channel, and mountains that stretch into forever. There’s also a nature center, hiking trails, and eagle encounters to round out the experience. It’s an easy thrill with sky-high rewards.
Places to Eat
Places to Stay
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Juneau is from May to September, when the weather is mild, wildlife is active, and outdoor adventures are in full swing. This window offers long daylight hours, blooming wildflowers, and the best chances to spot whales, bears, and calving glaciers. July and August are peak cruise months—perfect for bustling energy and events—while May and September offer fewer crowds and quieter trails. Just remember to pack layers (and a rain jacket)—this is Southeast Alaska, after all.
