Overview: Why Juneau Is a Must-Do Alaska Cruise Excursion
Juneau, Alaska’s remote and beautiful capital city, is tucked between towering mountains and the icy waters of the Gastineau Channel. Only reachable by boat or plane, Juneau offers cruise passengers a perfect mix of culture, history, and epic outdoor adventure. Whether you want to see glaciers up close, spot humpback whales, or stroll through a historic downtown, there’s a Juneau Alaska cruise excursion for every style of traveler.
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Top 5 Juneau Alaska Cruise Excursions
These are our top recommendations for cruise passengers based on personal experience and feedback from happy clients. All can be booked either through your cruise line or with reputable local operators who understand cruise docking schedules.
1. Mendenhall Glacier
No trip to Juneau is complete without visiting the famous Mendenhall Glacier, located just 12 miles from downtown. You can:
- Walk the easy trail to Nugget Falls for a jaw-dropping glacier backdrop
- Explore interactive exhibits at the visitor center
- Book a guided Mendenhall Glacier cruise excursion for glacier kayaking or ice trekking
2. Whale Watching in Juneau
Juneau is one of Alaska’s best whale-watching destinations. Between May and September, humpback whales gather in large numbers, and orca sightings are possible too. Tours often spot sea lions, seals, and bald eagles—making this a bucket-list wildlife experience.
3. Mount Roberts Tramway
Located right at the cruise port, the Mount Roberts Tram takes you from sea level to panoramic mountain views in just minutes. At the top, you’ll find hiking trails, a cultural center, and plenty of photo opportunities. Pro tip: Buy tickets on the day of your visit so you don’t risk paying for a foggy view.
4. Downtown Juneau & Red Dog Saloon
Take time to explore Juneau’s historic downtown district, filled with unique shops, local art galleries, and Alaskan charm. For a true taste of frontier history, step inside the Red Dog Saloon—sawdust floors, hearty pub food, and live music included.
5. Glacier Flightseeing & Dog Sledding
For a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, book a helicopter tour over the Juneau Icefield. Many tours include a glacier landing and a summer dog sled ride—an unforgettable Juneau Alaska cruise excursion for thrill-seekers.
Where to Eat in Juneau
If your port schedule allows, here are some top food spots to try before heading back to the ship:
- Tracy’s King Crab Shack – Famous for Alaskan king crab legs, crab bisque, and crab cakes.
- Deckhand Dave’s – Outdoor spot serving fresh fish tacos, poke bowls, and halibut sandwiches.
- Alaska Fish & Chips Company – Crispy halibut with a waterfront view.
- Red Dog Saloon – A quirky, historic saloon with hearty pub fare (adults will appreciate the Wild West atmosphere).
Our Favorite Juneau Alaska Cruise Excursions
We’ve personally experienced and vetted these tours, and our clients love them too:
- Mount Roberts Tram (walk-up tickets available)
Booking Tip: If booking independently, make sure your tour fits within your port hours and leaves plenty of time to return to the ship.
Free & Budget-Friendly Juneau Alaska Cruise Excursions
Not every Juneau Alaska cruise excursion comes with a big price tag. If you want to explore without spending much (or anything at all), these options are perfect:
- Juneau-Douglas City Museum – Small admission fee (often $6 or less) for exhibits on local history, Native culture, and mining.
- Self-Guided Downtown Walking Tour – Pick up a free map at the visitor center and explore historic buildings, street art, and scenic viewpoints.
- Hiking Mount Roberts Trails – If you don’t mind the climb, you can hike from town up the mountain instead of taking the tram. The trails are steep but free.
- Alaska State Capitol Building – Free to enter, with guided tours available in summer. Learn about Alaska’s political history and architecture.
- Juneau Seawalk – A paved waterfront path right near the cruise docks, perfect for stretching your legs, snapping photos, and spotting seals or eagles.
Pro Tip: Even if you choose free activities, keep an eye on the clock! Alaska cruise ships won’t wait if you’re late returning.
Quick Take
From glaciers and wildlife to historic streets and unforgettable adventures, Juneau offers cruise passengers a huge variety of shore excursions. Whether you’re after adrenaline, culture, or a relaxing day in port, there’s a Juneau Alaska cruise excursion that’s perfect for you.
We can help you book your entire Alaska cruise adventure from top to bottom! Just reach out to us to get started!
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Written by: DeWayne Tudor
Photo credit: DeWayne Tudor