City
Juneau
Alaska's capital where glaciers meet temperate rainforest
Juneau sits at the edge of the world, where massive glaciers tumble into temperate rainforest and humpback whales breach just offshore. This is Alaska's capital city, but forget everything you think you know about state capitals. No roads connect Juneau to the outside world. You fly in or sail in, period. And that isolation has kept something special intact — a place where you can watch eagles soar over downtown streets and hear glaciers crack like thunder from your hotel room.
Itineraries coming soon
We're working on adding amazing itineraries for Juneau. In the meantime, try the app to create your own!
Downtown Juneau puts you in the heart of everything. The Historic District along South Franklin Street gives you walkable access to the State Capitol, local restaurants, and the Mount Roberts Tramway. But here's the thing — most hotels here are geared toward cruise passengers, so book early if you're visiting May through September.
Mendenhall Valley offers a quieter alternative about 15 minutes from downtown. You'll find chain hotels like the Hampton Inn near the airport, plus you're closer to the glacier. The trade-off? You'll need a rental car or rely on taxis to reach downtown attractions.
For something different, consider staying in Douglas, the small community across the Gastineau Channel. The Silverbow Bakery has rooms upstairs, and you're just a quick bridge drive from downtown Juneau.
Money-Saving Tips
- 1.Book accommodations early for summer visits — cruise ship passengers book up most downtown hotels
- 2.Pack layers and rain gear regardless of season — weather changes quickly
- 3.Many attractions offer combo tickets — the Mount Roberts Tramway plus museum saves about $10
- 4.Grocery stores are expensive due to shipping costs — consider packing snacks
- 5.Free activities include hiking trails around Mendenhall Glacier and exploring downtown historic district
- 6.Whale watching tours offer similar experiences at different price points — compare carefully
- 7.Airport rental car pickup avoids downtown traffic and parking fees
Travel Tips
- •Download offline maps — cell service can be spotty in remote areas
- •Bring binoculars for wildlife viewing — eagles and whales are common but distant
- •Check weather forecasts daily — outdoor activities depend heavily on conditions
- •Book glacier tours early in your trip in case weather forces cancellations
- •Dress in layers — temperatures can vary 20+ degrees between downtown and glacier areas
- •Learn basic bear safety if hiking — black bears are common throughout the area
- •Carry cash — some smaller businesses don't accept cards
Frequently Asked Questions
Not necessarily. Downtown Juneau is walkable, and public buses connect major attractions. But a car gives you flexibility to explore Mendenhall Glacier and surrounding areas on your own schedule.
Explore Juneau
Ready to explore Juneau?
Get a personalized itinerary in seconds with Takeoff.
Free on iOS. No credit card required.