Juneau Cruise Port: The Ultimate Guide

Juneau Cruise Port is a gateway to breathtaking natural landscapes and exciting Alaskan adventures.

From scenic hikes to unforgettable wildlife encounters, this guide will help cruisers make the most of their stop at one of Alaska’s most popular ports.

Introduction to Juneau Cruise Port

Juneau, the capital of Alaska, is a stunning coastal city nestled between the lush Tongass National Forest and the pristine waters of the Inside Passage.

The port of Juneau is one of the most visited stops on Alaska cruise itineraries (along with Skagway & Ketchikan), attracting travelers from all over the world. Known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and easy access to some of Alaska’s most incredible natural wonders, the Juneau Cruise Port is more than just a stop—it’s a gateway to adventure.

The port offers cruisers a chance to experience authentic Alaskan life while exploring incredible glaciers, spotting diverse wildlife, and discovering local cuisine and crafts. Whether you’re into outdoor exploration or cultural experiences, Juneau has something for everyone.

Location of Juneau Cruise Port

Juneau is located in southeastern Alaska, along the picturesque Inside Passage.

As the only U.S. state capital that isn’t accessible by road, the only ways to reach Juneau are by sea or air. For cruise travelers, this remote location adds to the charm and allure of the destination.

The port is strategically located in downtown Juneau, making it easy for passengers to disembark and immediately begin exploring the city’s attractions. The dock area is well-connected to the city’s transportation network, making it convenient for travelers to get around and experience the city.

Overview of Cruise Terminals

Juneau’s cruise port consists of several docks:

South Franklin Dock: The southernmost dock, typically used by larger cruise ships.
AJ Dock: Located further from downtown, but shuttles are available for easy access.
Alaska Steamship Dock: A popular docking spot, offering quick access to nearby attractions.
Marine Park Dock: Centrally located, perfect for passengers who want to explore downtown on foot.

Each terminal offers facilities like transportation, food stalls, and souvenir shops, ensuring passengers have what they need before embarking on their adventures in the city.

Getting Around Juneau from the Port

There are plenty of transportation options available at Juneau Cruise Port:

Walking: Many attractions, especially those in downtown, are within walking distance from the cruise docks.
Shuttle Buses: For passengers docked at terminals further from downtown, shuttle services are available.
Taxis: Taxis are readily available for quick trips to locations like Mendenhall Glacier or the airport.
Rental Cars: If you prefer more freedom, rental cars are available near the port.
Mount Roberts Tramway: This scenic ride from downtown Juneau up to Mount Roberts offers incredible views of the city and surrounding areas.

Best Attractions Near the Juneau Cruise Port

There are several must-see attractions near the port, including:

Historic Downtown Juneau: Just a few steps from the dock, visitors can explore Juneau’s charming downtown, filled with historic buildings, local shops, and museums.
Mount Roberts Tramway: This aerial tram offers stunning panoramic views of Juneau and the surrounding mountains.
Mendenhall Glacier: One of the most famous glaciers in Alaska, the Mendenhall Glacier is just a short drive from the port. Visitors can hike trails or visit the glacier’s visitor center to learn more about this natural wonder.
Alaska State Museum: A great spot to learn about Alaskan history, culture, and art.

Popular Shore Excursions from Juneau

For cruisers who want to experience the great outdoors, Juneau offers a range of exciting shore excursions, such as:

Helicopter Tours to Mendenhall Glacier: Experience a breathtaking helicopter ride over Juneau’s glaciers, with some tours including a chance to walk on the glacier itself.
Whale Watching Tours: Juneau is one of the best places to spot humpback whales, orcas, and other marine life. Book a whale-watching tour for a chance to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
Hiking Trails: Whether you want an easy stroll or a challenging hike, Juneau has trails that suit all fitness levels. Trails around Mount Roberts and the Tongass National Forest are particularly popular.
Dog Sledding Adventures: A true Alaskan experience, visitors can try dog sledding on a glacier, combining adventure with incredible views.
Explore Historic Downtown Juneau: Wander the streets of downtown Juneau, filled with historic buildings, local shops, and galleries.
Ride the Mount Roberts Tramway: Take a scenic ride up Mount Roberts for breathtaking views of Juneau, and enjoy hiking trails or visit the nature center at the top.
Visit Mendenhall Glacier: A short drive from the port, this stunning glacier is a must-see. Explore the visitor center and nearby hiking trails.
Whale Watching Tour: Juneau is famous for its whale watching tours. Spot humpback whales, orcas, and other marine life.
Take a Helicopter Tour: See Alaska from above with a helicopter ride over glaciers and the stunning Alaskan wilderness.
Go Dog Sledding on a Glacier: Experience a true Alaskan adventure by dog sledding on a glacier. Some helicopter tours include this activity.
Visit the Alaska State Museum: Learn about Alaska’s rich history, indigenous culture, and wildlife at this fascinating museum.
Tour the Alaskan Brewing Company: Beer lovers can visit this local brewery to sample craft beers and learn about the brewing process.
Visit the Shrine of St. Therese: This peaceful spot is located north of Juneau and offers stunning views of the water and surrounding islands.
Walk the Nugget Falls Trail: Hike a relatively easy trail to see the spectacular Nugget Falls, located near Mendenhall Glacier.
See Bears at Pack Creek: Join a guided tour to Pack Creek on Admiralty Island, one of the best places to see brown bears in their natural habitat.
Visit the Juneau-Douglas City Museum: Explore exhibits focused on Juneau’s gold rush history and the culture of the indigenous Tlingit people.
Explore the Last Chance Mining Museum: Learn about Juneau’s gold mining past and see original mining equipment at this historic museum.
Try Kayaking in the Gastineau Channel: Take a guided kayak tour to explore the scenic waters around Juneau and get up close to wildlife.
Visit Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure: Tour this botanical garden that features upside-down trees and beautifully landscaped grounds within a temperate rainforest.
Take a Flightseeing Tour: Hop on a small plane for a scenic flightseeing tour over the glaciers and mountains of the Juneau Icefield.
Stroll Through the Juneau Wharf: This waterfront area offers shops, restaurants, and gorgeous views of the Gastineau Channel.
Go Fishing: Join a charter for a fishing trip and try catching salmon or halibut in the waters around Juneau.
Visit the Mount Roberts Nature Center: Learn about local wildlife and ecology at this nature center located at the top of the Mount Roberts Tramway.
Visit the Red Dog Saloon: Step back in time at this historic bar, famous for its Wild West decor, live music, and hearty Alaskan fare.
Explore the Eaglecrest Ski Area: In winter, enjoy skiing or snowboarding, and in summer, explore hiking trails with panoramic views.
Take a Glacier Cruise: Join a day cruise to see stunning glaciers up close, including Tracy Arm Fjord or Glacier Bay National Park.
Tour the State Capitol Building: Take a guided tour of the Alaska State Capitol and learn about Alaska’s political history.
Watch Salmon at the Macaulay Salmon Hatchery: Visit the hatchery to learn about salmon farming and watch thousands of fish swimming in the tanks during the summer.
Visit Treadwell Mine Historic Trail: Walk through the ruins of the Treadwell Gold Mine and learn about Juneau’s gold rush past on this scenic trail.
See the Juneau Icefield: For adventurers, explore the vast Juneau Icefield by helicopter or join a guided glacier hike.
Go Birdwatching: Juneau is a paradise for birdwatchers, with bald eagles and other bird species common in the area.
Try Deckhand Dave’s Fish Tacos: Grab some delicious, fresh-caught fish tacos from this famous food truck near the cruise port.
Visit Sentinel Island Lighthouse: Take a boat ride to this historic lighthouse and enjoy a tour of the area’s coastal beauty.
Take a Photography Tour: Join a guided photography tour to capture stunning images of glaciers, wildlife, and Juneau’s landscapes.
Explore the Alaska Governor’s Mansion: Tour the Governor’s Mansion, a historic residence with beautiful views and a grand interior.
Attend the Alaska Folk Festival: If you’re visiting in April, don’t miss this week-long celebration of traditional music, with performances by musicians from around Alaska.
Visit the Mendenhall Glacier Ice Caves: Hike to the incredible ice caves beneath Mendenhall Glacier, where you can explore the otherworldly blue ice.
Go Ziplining: For thrill-seekers, there are zipline tours through the Alaskan rainforest offering spectacular views.
Take a Guided Nature Walk: Join a naturalist-led walk through Juneau’s wilderness areas to learn about local flora, fauna, and geology.
Explore Gastineau Mill Ruins: Take a guided tour of these historic ruins from the early 20th century gold mining boom.
Visit the Whale Project Statue: Admire this beautiful life-sized bronze whale statue, known as the “Humpback Whale Project,” located near the waterfront.
Rent a Bike: Rent a bike from a local shop and cycle around the city or explore the scenic trails near the port.
Attend the Juneau Maritime Festival: If your visit is in May, check out the Juneau Maritime Festival, featuring local food, boat races, and live music.
Watch a Performance at Perseverance Theatre: Catch a local play or performance at Alaska’s premier professional theater, known for showcasing Alaskan talent.

Where to Eat Near Juneau Cruise Port

Juneau is home to several excellent restaurants and local eateries, many of which are within walking distance of the port. Some of the best places to grab a bite include:

Tracy’s King Crab Shack: Famous for its delicious Alaskan King Crab, this spot is a must-visit for seafood lovers.
Red Dog Saloon: This historic saloon offers traditional Alaskan dishes in a lively, rustic atmosphere.
Deckhand Dave’s Fish Tacos: Known for its fresh, locally caught fish, Deckhand Dave’s serves some of the best tacos in town.
Salt: If you’re in the mood for fine dining, Salt offers a contemporary take on Alaskan cuisine, using local ingredients.

Shopping in Juneau: What to Buy and Where

Juneau is an excellent place to shop for unique souvenirs and local crafts. Some popular items include:

Alaskan Native Art: Look for handcrafted items made by local Native artists, including totem poles, masks, and jewelry.
Gold Nugget Jewelry: As a former gold rush town, Juneau offers some stunning gold nugget jewelry, a great keepsake from your trip.
Local Food Products: From smoked salmon to locally made jams, Juneau has a variety of edible souvenirs to take home.
Glacier Silt Soap: This unique soap, made from glacier silt, is a popular item in Juneau’s gift shops.

Shops like Caribou Crossings and Mt. Juneau Trading Post are great places to find authentic Alaskan goods.

Wildlife You Can Spot Near Juneau Cruise Port

Juneau is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. Keep an eye out for:

Humpback Whales: Common in the waters around Juneau during the summer months.
Bald Eagles: Often seen soaring above the trees or perched near the water’s edge.
Bears: Black bears are frequently spotted around Mendenhall Glacier and in the surrounding forest areas.
Sea Lions and Otters: These playful creatures can often be seen swimming near the port.

Best Time to Visit Juneau Cruise Port

The best time to visit Juneau Cruise Port is between May and September, during the cruise season. These months offer the best weather, with long daylight hours and mild temperatures.

June and July are particularly popular due to the abundance of wildlife, especially whales, and the many festivals and events that take place during this time.

Juneau Cruise Port Facilities and Amenities

Juneau Cruise Port offers a range of amenities to make passengers’ stays comfortable, including:

Restrooms: Available at all terminals.
Free Wi-Fi: Some spots around the port offer free Wi-Fi, though it can be spotty.
Currency Exchange: Some shops and kiosks offer currency exchange services.
Visitor Information Centers: Located near the docks, where you can pick up maps, brochures, and tour recommendations.

Accessibility for Disabled Passengers

Juneau is relatively accessible for passengers with mobility issues.

The port offers ramps and accessible transportation options, and many of the city’s attractions, such as the Mount Roberts Tramway and the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, have accommodations for disabled visitors. Accessible taxis are also available, making it easier for everyone to explore the city.

Safety and Security at Juneau Cruise Port

Juneau is generally a very safe city for tourists, but it’s always wise to take precautions. Here are some tips for staying safe:

Keep Your Belongings Secure: Petty theft is rare but can happen, so keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
Stay with Your Group: If you’re exploring remote areas or taking excursions, it’s safer to stick with a group.
Wildlife Safety: Always maintain a safe distance from wildlife, especially bears, and follow your guide’s instructions when on tours.

Currency, Language, and Tipping Etiquette

Currency: The local currency is the U.S. dollar, and most businesses accept major credit cards.
Language: English is the primary language spoken, though you may hear some local Native languages, particularly Tlingit.
Tipping: Tipping is customary in restaurants and for tour guides. The typical rate is 15-20% for excellent service.

Environmental Conservation Efforts in Juneau

Juneau takes pride in its natural beauty and has implemented several conservation efforts to protect its environment. Cruise lines, local businesses, and tour operators are part of these initiatives, ensuring minimal impact on the ecosystem. Visitors are encouraged to:

Recycle: Use the recycling bins around the port.
Respect Wildlife: Maintain a safe distance from animals and avoid feeding them.
Limit Plastic Use: Bring reusable water bottles and bags.

Local Events and Festivals in Juneau

If your cruise coincides with one of Juneau’s local events, you’re in for a treat! Some popular events include:

Juneau Maritime Festival: Held in May, this festival celebrates Juneau’s maritime culture with boat races, live music, and local food.
Gold Rush Days: This June event commemorates Juneau’s gold mining history with games, competitions, and festivities.
Alaska Folk Festival: Usually held in April, this free event features musicians from across Alaska and beyond.

Cruise Lines That Operate from Juneau

Many major cruise lines dock at Juneau, including:

Princess Cruises
Royal Caribbean
Holland America Line
Norwegian Cruise Line
Celebrity Cruises

Each line offers a variety of excursions and services catered to Juneau’s unique attractions, ensuring a tailored experience for every passenger.

How to Make the Most of Your Time at Juneau Cruise Port

To maximize your time in Juneau:

Book Excursions Early: Popular tours like whale watching and glacier helicopter tours fill up quickly, so book in advance.
Stay Flexible: Juneau’s weather can be unpredictable. Be open to changing plans based on the conditions.
Start Early: Many attractions and shops open early, so try to disembark as soon as possible to make the most of your day.

What to Pack for Your Juneau Cruise

Packing for a Juneau cruise requires careful consideration. Essentials include:

Layered Clothing: Juneau’s weather can change quickly, so pack layers to stay comfortable.
Rain Gear: Rain is common, even in summer, so waterproof jackets and shoes are a must.
Binoculars: Perfect for whale watching and spotting wildlife from the shore or on excursions.
Sun Protection: Even on cloudy days, the sun’s rays can be strong, especially when reflected off the water and glaciers.

FAQs About Juneau Cruise Port

Is Juneau Cruise Port walkable?
Yes, many attractions, including downtown Juneau, are within walking distance of the port.

Can you see glaciers from Juneau Cruise Port?
While you can’t see glaciers from the port, Mendenhall Glacier is a short drive or shuttle ride away.

What wildlife can I see near the port?
You can spot whales, eagles, bears, and more either on excursions or even near the city’s outskirts.

What’s the weather like in Juneau?
Juneau experiences cool summers, with temperatures averaging between 55°F and 65°F, and frequent rain.

How do I get to Mendenhall Glacier from the port?
Shuttle buses regularly run between the port and Mendenhall Glacier, or you can take a taxi.

Are there any free attractions in Juneau?
Yes, exploring downtown Juneau, hiking nearby trails, and visiting some museums are free activities.

Conclusion

Juneau Cruise Port is a highlight of any Alaskan cruise, offering a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty.

Whether you’re hiking to glaciers, whale watching, or exploring the charming streets of downtown, this port provides unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler. Plan ahead, soak in the sights, and enjoy all that Juneau has to offer!