Most cruise ships will make a stop in Alaska’s capital city, Juneau. This is one of my favorite ports of call in Alaska because of the sheer volume of activities you can do. If you are looking for something that is low cost or free while here, check out these options.
The Capital Building
120 4th St. Juneau, Alaska
If you have a little bit of time before or after your cruise excursion, consider a quick trip to the capital. It is a short 10-15 minute walk from the cruise port. Just a note: it is a steep hill walking to the capital.
Once you are there, you can take a self guided tour. Plan about 20-30 minutes to walk through it. There are maps there or you can look at it digitally here. Bonus: if you prefer to visit virtually you can do so here:
Juneau Voices
Walk from the cruise port
This is another great option to do before/after your cruise excursion in Juneau. Juneau Voices is a walking tour that features Juneau residents sharing stories and memories. Click here for a map and click here to learn more.
Nugget Falls
Nugget Falls is located in the Tongass National Forest at the base of Bullard Mountain and can be accessed from the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center. It is relatively easy trail that is 2 miles in length and takes around an hour to complete round trip. You are rewarded with beautiful views of Nugget Falls which is 377 feet! The falls are a result of ice melting from Nugget Glacier. In addition to the waterfall, you can also see Mendenhall Glacier. This is a popular trail during the summer months. As a result, except crowds.
Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center
6000 Glacier Spur Rd, Juneau, Alaska
Take a taxi or bus to get here. Please note: There is a nominal fee to enter.
Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center is where you can see the famous Mendenhall Glacier which is a 13 mile long river of ice. You can also spot icebergs floating in Mendenhall Lake. Keep your eye out for wildlife here as well. You maybe able to see bears, mountain goats, beavers, and spawning salmon depending on when you visit.
Bonus: If you have young travelers, check out the ranger program. There are two offered. One specifically for Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center and one for the entire Tongass National Forest. Click here to learn more.
Juneau Douglass Museum
114 W. 4th Street Juneau, Alaska
It is a Blue Star Museum meaning members of the military (plus 5 family members) get in for free. There is a nominal cost for the general public.
The Juneau Douglass Museum teaches the history of Juneau. It is a great place to learn about the people and cultures of the Tlingit, Aak'w Kwáan and T'aaku Kwáan. As with many cities in Alaska, Juneau has a history of mining. There is exhibit dedicated to learning about the mining history as well. Note: They do offer walking tours, including one that is geology focused. Reservations are required and there is an additional cost. Click here to learn more.
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