Things to Do in Juneau

About Juneau

located between towering peaks and pristine waters, Juneau exists in a realm where wilderness and civilization dance in perfect harmony. This capital city, accessible only by air or sea, feels deliciously untethered from the ordinary world – where glaciers tumble dramatically into the ocean and bald eagles soar overhead as casually as pigeons elsewhere. The Mendenhall Glacier looms like a frozen cathedral beyond the city limits, while downtown's colorful facades house stories of gold rush dreams and indigenous heritage that spans millennia. Here, the midnight sun illuminates summer adventures that stretch endlessly, and winter's embrace brings aurora-painted skies and the profound silence of snow-covered streets. Juneau whispers promises of authentic Alaska – where you might spot a black bear wandering through suburban neighborhoods, where salmon runs turn creeks silver, and where the boundary between the wild and the welcoming dissolves into something magical. This is Alaska's heart, beating with the rhythm of tides and the ancient pulse of untamed nature.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Book Alaska Airlines flights well in advance as Juneau has no road access. Downtown is walkable, but rent a car to reach Mendenhall Glacier (13 miles) and other attractions. The Capital Transit bus system connects major sites for $2 per ride.

Money: US dollars only. Most businesses accept cards, but carry cash for small vendors and tips. ATMs are readily available downtown. Expect 15-20% higher prices than lower 48 states due to shipping costs.

Cultural Respect: Acknowledge Juneau sits on Tlingit land. Remove hats in the Alaska State Museum. When viewing wildlife, maintain 25-yard distance from bears, 100 yards from marine mammals. Don't touch or walk on glacial ice without guides.

Food Safety: Tap water is safe to drink. Try local salmon, halibut, and Dungeness crab at reputable restaurants. Avoid raw shellfish from unknown sources. When hiking, never eat wild berries or mushrooms unless absolutely certain of identification.

When to Visit

Summer (May-September) offers Juneau's most accessible experience, with temperatures ranging 55-70°F and 15-20 rainy days monthly. Peak season (June-August) brings 18+ hours of daylight, whale watching, and hiking opportunities, but expect crowds and 40-60% higher accommodation prices. The Juneau Jazz & Classics Festival enlivens late May, while Alaska Folk Festival celebrates music each April. Shoulder seasons (May and September) provide 30% savings with fewer tourists but unpredictable weather. Fall (October-November) delivers dramatic aurora displays and 50°F temperatures, though many tour operators close. Winter (December-March) transforms Juneau into a snow-draped wonderland with temperatures 20-40°F and frequent snowfall. While many attractions hibernate, winter offers 70% accommodation discounts, northern lights viewing, and authentic local culture. The Perseverance Theatre season runs October-May for indoor entertainment. Spring (April-May) awakens with returning wildlife and warming temperatures, perfect for budget-conscious travelers seeking mild crowds and moderate pricing. Each season rewards visitors differently – summer for classic Alaska experiences, winter for aurora hunters and cultural immersion, and shoulder seasons for balanced weather, pricing, and accessibility.