Things To Do

Arts & Culture

The historic district is a compact yet remarkably diverse part of Juneau, offering far more than you might expect within such a walkable area. Every corner feels layered with character—colorful storefronts, preserved architecture, and the steady rhythm of daily life blending with the stories of the past. It’s the kind of place where you can wander slowly, letting the details reveal themselves as you go.

If you can, time your visit to coincide with one of Juneau’s many annual events. Festivals, parades, cultural celebrations, and seasonal gatherings bring an extra spark to the neighborhood, transforming the streets into lively hubs of music, food, and community. But even if you’re exploring on a whim, the Events Calendar makes it easy to jump into whatever is happening that day.

And don’t rush your time here—set aside a moment to step into one of the district’s museums. Their rotating galleries and thoughtfully curated exhibits offer a deeper look at the region’s history, art, and cultural heritage, giving you a richer understanding of the place beyond what you see at street level.

Visit

Excursions

Juneau is home to an incredible range of wildlife—on the ground, in the air, and throughout the surrounding waters—so it’s entirely possible you’ll spot a black bear wandering the shoreline, a bald eagle circling overhead, or even a humpback whale surfacing in the channel during your visit. Sightings are especially common from April through November, when many species are most active.

If you’re hoping to get an even closer look, Juneau offers a wide variety of guided tours designed to bring you near some of Alaska’s most iconic animals. Depending on the season and the tour you choose, you might find yourself watching Dall’s porpoises race alongside a boat, observing sea lions hauled out on rocky islands, spotting harbor seals and sea otters drifting through the kelp, or scanning the mountainsides for agile mountain goats and elusive Sitka black‑tailed deer. It’s one of the best places in Alaska to experience wildlife in its natural element.

Visit

Outdoor Activities

Breathe in the clean, crisp mountain air and feel the energy of Alaska’s wilderness all around you. Juneau’s outdoors invite you to slow down, look up, and fully immerse yourself in landscapes shaped by glaciers, rainforest, and the sea. Whether you’re wandering quiet forest trails, paddling along sheltered coves, or standing at the foot of a towering ice wall, every moment outside offers a chance to reconnect with nature in its purest form.

From easy strolls to heart‑pounding adventures, the terrain here encourages you to explore at your own pace. Hike through lush temperate rainforest, kayak across glassy waters, or simply take in the sweeping views from a mountaintop overlook. No matter how you choose to experience it, Juneau’s wilderness rewards curiosity, invites adventure, and leaves you with memories that stay long after you’ve returned home.

Visit

Shopping

When you’re in Juneau, take the time to explore the shops, galleries, and small businesses that give our community its character. Shopping here isn’t just about finding something to take home—it’s a chance to support local artisans, meet the people who make this place special, and discover items you won’t find anywhere else.

Many of our boutiques and gift shops feature handcrafted pieces created by Alaska Native artists and local makers. From carved ivory and hand‑woven baskets to jewelry, prints, and traditional artwork, these pieces carry stories that reflect the land, the culture, and the heritage of Southeast Alaska.

Whether you’re searching for a meaningful keepsake, a unique gift, or simply a memento to remember your stay, Juneau offers a shopping experience that’s personal, memorable, and deeply connected to the community. Bring home something that reminds you not just of your visit—but of the people and traditions that make Juneau unforgettable.

Visit

Cruises

Experience Juneau from the water, where the city’s dramatic coastline and glacier‑carved fjords unfold in every direction. Out on the channels, the scenery feels bigger, wilder, and more immediate—towering mountains rising straight from the sea, waterfalls spilling down steep cliffs, and deep blue waters that reflect the shifting Alaskan sky.

Whether you’re arriving aboard a cruise ship or setting out on a locally guided excursion, Juneau’s waterways offer an unforgettable front‑row seat to the region’s natural wonders. Watch humpback whales bubble‑net feeding in the distance, spot sea lions lounging on rocky outcrops, or glide past icebergs drifting near the face of a glacier. Every trip on the water brings a new perspective on Alaska’s rugged shoreline and the wildlife that thrives here.

From leisurely sightseeing cruises to intimate wildlife tours, exploring Juneau by water is one of the most breathtaking ways to experience the heart of Southeast Alaska.

Visit

Tours

Discover Juneau through the eyes of local experts who know the land, the stories, and the wildlife better than anyone. Guided tours here do more than show you the sights—they connect you to the culture, history, and natural wonders that make Alaska unlike anywhere else. Whether you’re stepping onto a glacier, cruising through wildlife‑rich waters, or exploring neighborhoods filled with heritage and character, each tour adds depth and meaning to your visit.

Choose from glacier treks that take you across ancient blue ice, cultural experiences that highlight Indigenous traditions, scenic drives that wind through rainforest and coastline, or wildlife excursions where bears, whales, and eagles steal the show. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, you can relax, learn, and fully immerse yourself in the beauty and spirit of Juneau.

From adventurous outings to easygoing explorations, these tours make it simple—and unforgettable—to experience the very best of Alaska’s capital city.

Visit