Things to Do in Juneau, Alaska

We have been helping guests for the last 20 years get the most out of their trip to Juneau. We have handcrafted for you guides on what to see and do if you were a local. Click on any of the guides referenced below to download as a PDF.

Revered by many as both an exciting and naturally beautiful area, there has never been a shortage of things to do in Juneau, Alaska. Wedged between Mount Juneau and the Gastineau Channel, Juneau has been described as “a little San Francisco; the most beautiful city in Alaska.”

The first city founded after the purchase of Alaska from Imperial Russia in 1867, Juneau had its beginnings in gold.Nowadays, the state’s capital is renowned for its spectacular natural beauty, attracting more than 800,000 visitors during an average summer.

Our downtown Juneau hotel is situated perfectly for you to enjoy many of the top attractions and activities, too. We are located just 2 blocks from convention center, State capitol, State Office Complex, Coast Guard Station, and cruise ship docks, and just 5 blocks from the Federal Building.

From here, it’s easy to explore this incredible city! For even more information on all of the attractions and things to do in Juneau, check out our Insider’s Tips about life in Juneau.

There is never a shortage of things to do in Juneau, Alaska. Fortunately, our Juneau hotel is conveniently located near all the best attractions. Whether you love the outdoors or simply love exploring new places, Alaska is perfect for the adventure-seeker. You can view it all easily on our activity map (see below)!

Silverbow Inn Hotel & Suites is centrally located in the heart of historic downtown Juneau, and is within walking distance of restaurants, shopping, Centennial Hall Convention Center, and the State Capitol. The bus stop is just half a block away, too, making it very easy to get around and enjoy the very best of Juneau. There are countless things to do in Juneau – rain or shine – but we’ve listed a few of our favorites below.

Glacier Viewing

Of all the many great things to do in Juneau, viewing glaciers is at the top of the list. For many, viewing glaciers is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. And, luckily, there are many ways to see Juneau’s glaciers. Soar above them in a flightseeing plane, glide by them in a kayak, or take a hike on a glacier landing tour.

Hiking, Walking, and Biking

Another of the most popular things to do in Juneau is hiking. Juneau has 130 miles of hiking trails with varying levels of difficulty. Opportunities for guided tours are available through various groups and outfitters. One of the most scenic and well-used Juneau hiking trails is Perseverance Trail, which spins off into numerous other backcountry hiking trails.

While you’re here, don’t miss the opportunity to take a stroll through downtown Juneau, too. One of the great things about staying at the Silverbow Inn Hotel & Suites is our convenient location. Walking through downtown is among our favorite the things to do in Juneau, and we’re conveniently located near many of the local businesses and attractions. There are restaurants, shops, museums, tours, and more – all within walking distance of the inn!

Biking opportunities abound in Juneau! Mountain biking, bike tours, and bike trails are all excellent ways to see the city and the beauty of the wilderness surrounding it.

This is Tracy!

Sightseeing

Must-see attractions include the Alaska State Museum, the Juneau-Douglas City Museum, the historic St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church, and the Mount Roberts Tramway.

Wildlife Viewing

Juneau is the perfect destination for visitors who love the outdoors and the creatures who make it their home. Bird lovers flock here and so do the birds! Juneau is home to more than 100 species of birds, including a large population of bald eagles. Bird-watching tours and hikes are a popular activity for visitors. Just 10 minutes away on Admiralty Island is the largest concentrated population of brown bears in the world.

Whale Watching

If you take a whale watching tour in the summer, you may get to see humpback whales and killer whales, as well as seals, sea lions, and porpoise. Captain Larry’s Whale Watch Adventure (Orca Enterprises) departs Auke Bay for a 3 ½ excursion, during which passengers zip out to Admiralty Island, the home of the largest concentration of brown bears in North America.

Dog Sledding

Looking for a one of a kind adventure? Try dog sledding on one of Alaska’s many glaciers and have an unforgettable experience you’re sure to be telling everyone about.

Mendenhall Glacier

Hike the 3.5-mile East Glacier Loop, or more adventurous folks head to the West Glacier Loop Hike where you can get onto the Glacier and experience the ice caves. Kayaking, guided bicycle and helicopter/dog-sledding tours are also available.

Local Flavor

A trip to Juneau would not be complete without sampling local staples, like Alaskan King Crab, Alaska Halibut, Alaska Black Cod, Alaska Wild Salmon, Alaska Cold Smoked Wild Salmon, and beer from Alaskan Brewery. The Alaskan Brewery is open year-round and offers complimentary tours and tasting. Alternatively, learn to cook like an Alaskan with a class at Chez Alaska.

Mount Roberts Tramway

Take the enclosed gondola to the Tram lookout area (at 1,800 ft.) for breathtaking views, history, art, and cultural exhibits and Alaskan beers and fare. Or, hike 1 ½ -2 hours to the Tram lookout area, then continue onto the mountain peak (4,500 ft.). Swing by the Tram Restaurant for a beer before taking the scenic tram down (it’s free to go down with a purchase at the top).

Fishing

Go fishing on a halibut or salmon charter.

Things to Do in Juneau, Alaska

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