If you’re planning a cruise to Alaska and your ship will stop in Juneau, the charming capital of the state, you’re in for a treat! Even with just one day in port, you can enjoy unforgettable experiences amidst mountains, lush forests, breathtaking glaciers, and plenty of incredible wildlife.
In this guide, I’m sharing what to do in Juneau during a cruise port day, including the best tours, practical tips, and top attractions you can easily explore before your ship sails away.
Check out my video on the attractions of Juneau, Alaska, during a cruise stop.
Ride the Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway
As soon as you disembark in Juneau, you will spot the iconic red cable car ascending the mountain. The Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway is one of the easiest and most scenic experiences available just steps from the pier.
Quick Tip: The tram entrance is just a 5-minute walk from the cruise terminal.
In just a few minutes, you’ll arrive at the summit of Mount Roberts, which stands about 1,800 feet (550 meters) high, offering panoramic views of the Gastineau Channel, the cruise ships in port, and the surrounding snow-capped mountains.
At the top, you can explore easy walking trails, visit the Tongass National Forest visitor center, shop for local crafts and souvenirs, or enjoy a meal at the restaurant that offers amazing views.
- Price: $60 for adults | $45 for children (unlimited rides all day)
- Average visit: 1 hour
Visit the Famous Mendenhall Glacier
No trip to Juneau is complete without visiting the spectacular Mendenhall Glacier, one of the most accessible glaciers in Alaska, which stretches 13 miles (21 km). Even better, it’s just a 20-minute drive from downtown!
The easy trail to Nugget Falls near the glacier takes about 25 minutes one way and is flat, making it suitable for most visitors. Believe me, the view is absolutely worth it!
- Shuttle round trip: Approximately $45
- Park entrance fee: $5 (ages 16 and older)
You can also join a guided excursion from the cruise ship, local companies, or via websites and apps such as Viator or GetYourGuide, which typically include round-trip transportation, expert guides, and tickets for the attractions. If possible, book in advance to secure your spot.
Below are a few of my favorite attractions available on GetYourGuide and Viator. If you choose one of these options through the provided links, I may earn a small commission; however, it won’t cost you anything extra. Your support greatly helps me continue creating articles and videos filled with tips about cruises and travel.
Discover the Macaulay Salmon Hatchery (DIPAC)
Looking for a fun and educational stop, especially if you’re traveling with kids?
The Macaulay Salmon Hatchery (DIPAC) is just a 10-minute ride from downtown and offers a unique experience. From July to September, you can witness salmon swimming upstream to spawn—a true natural wonder!
Inside, the hatchery features touch tanks with starfish, sea anemones, codfish, and other marine species native to Alaska.
Admission: $10 adults | $5 kids
Optional guided tours available!
Explore Historic Downtown Juneau – Free & Charming!
If you’re looking for something more relaxed (and budget-friendly), wandering through historic downtown Juneau presents a wonderful opportunity to soak up local culture.
In this guide, I’m sharing what to do in Juneau during a cruise port day, including the best tours, practical tips, and top attractions you can easily explore before your ship sails away.
With colorful shops, cozy cafés, jewelry stores, old-west-style bars, and historic buildings, the town center is compact, walkable, and brimming with charm.
Don’t miss:
- Red Dog Saloon – a quirky bar infused with old mining-town vibes.
- Tracy’s King Crab Shack – renowned for its colossal Alaskan king crab legs.
- Alaskan Brewing Co. – providing tastings of local craft beers.
Recommended time: 30 to 60 minutes (or longer if you wish to explore at your own pace or do not have any other booked tour in the city.)
Go All-In on Bucket-List Alaskan Adventures
If you’re craving once-in-a-lifetime experiences, Juneau is the perfect launchpad for unforgettable excursions:
- Whale Watching Tours
From May to September, boats depart from Auke Bay to spot humpbacks, orcas, sea lions, and bald eagles.
Average cost: $140–$180 (typically includes transportation)
- Helicopter or seaplane flightseeing tours over glaciers
- Dog sledding on a glacier
- Kayaking near glaciers and icebergs
- Ziplining through the Tongass Forest
Prices: From $150 to over $500 – worth every penny if it fits your budget!
Final Tips for Visiting Juneau on a Cruise Day
- Dress in layers – Alaska’s weather can change quickly.
- Wear waterproof shoes – especially for glacier hikes or trails.
- Book excursions early – popular tours, such as whale watching and dog sledding, tend to sell out fast.
- Watch your time – traffic and crowds may cause delays, so always plan to return early.
Even with limited time, Juneau is a destination that will remain with you forever. With its breathtaking natural landscapes, exciting outdoor adventures, and charming downtown, Alaska’s capital is the perfect stop to make the most of your cruise day.
I created the interactive map below for the must-see attractions and landmarks in Juneau mentioned in this post and in my YouTube video at the top of the page (you can also watch the video on our YouTube channel using this link), indicating their exact locations to help you navigate the city during your visit:
If you found these tips helpful, continue following me here on the blog, on the Cruising the World with Horton Novak YouTube channel, and on my other social media outlets for more cruise and travel guides and insights.
