Whether you’re like me and only have 24 hours to explore pre-cruise, or have more time in port, take these tips for what to see and do while you’re in Juneau, Alaska. This lively port town has plenty beyond the initial pop-up shops built for big ship crowds. This guide is made to complement our small ship Alaska cruise selection, which highlights the more intimate stops and sights of Alaska. I’ve taken my own experience here, combined with our team of experts who return every year to inspect ships and ensure you know the best way to go.
Walk on the Waterfront
Floatplanes take off and land by the minute here so it’s quite the show being waterfront. A walk on the promenade here is fun to view the statue of dog Patsy Ann (the former “official greeter of Juneau”) and to gawk at the largeness of the big cruise ships that literally block the view across the Gastineau Channel. Our 76-guest Wilderness Discoverer was docked nearby and the size contrast alone reassured us we were headed on a great, intimate adventure.
Venture Beyond the First Strip of Town
In Juneau, note that the big cruise ships also dictate a lot of the shops in town, so there are dozens of chain jewelry stores; be sure to walk beyond the first strip to find shops with more local flavor.
Mount Roberts – Hike Up, Tram Down or Roundtrip Tram
On embarkation day, we had most of the day to continue exploring Juneau. We started the morning with a hike up Mount Roberts (about 4 miles) and took the Mount Roberts tram down, spotting two bears in the forest on our way down. At the top of the tram are gift shops and a wildlife center, with a rehabilitating live bald eagle for education.
Eat at Tracy’s Crab Shack
For lunch, you must order the crab bisque at Tracy’s Crab Shack. This waterfront spot offers open-air picnic table seating with views of cruise ships and the promenade. And don’t miss taking a photo as a crab fisherman (my mom and me pictured below).
Shop at Kindred Post
Don’t miss this thoughtfully curated shop in downtown Juneau that doubles as a post office. Kindred Post features lots of local art (more than 200 diverse artists), jewelry, craft/hobby supplies and “good things worth sending home.” The owners are very community minded and host a statewide postcard contest for emerging artists. They strive to be a gathering place and build community through their events and initiatives.
Silverbow Inn – Dining & Accommodation
The Silverbow is truly a gem of a spot, with cozy accommodations and small-town charm. You’re likely to chat with the owners during your stay (they live upstairs), and the friendly staff and cute quirks (like their alligator business card holder) make this inn a standout for travelers who like local flavor. The former wine bar and bakery I so loved during my stay has now been converted into the In Bocca Al Lupo restaurant on site. The chef/owner, Beau Schooler, is a multiple James Beard nominee and a Top 50 Restaurants in the Country award recipient. Be sure to make a reservation at this popular spot whether you stay here or not!
Go to Mendenhall Glacier
Only about 12 miles from downtown Juneau is what many call their highlight of Juneau, especially if your cruise itinerary doesn’t include a lot of time at glaciers. Don’t miss this popular day trip but you’ll need a good half day or more to do it right. There’s a visitor center, easy Nugget Falls Trail, or of course added-cost upgrades like helicopter flightseeing, guided glacier trekking, dog sledding, canoeing or kayaking across Mendenhall Lake and more.
Pack for Variable Weather
Notice how bright and sunny all my pictures are? We were treated to nonstop sun, and it got downright hot. We were donning shorts and tank tops, but this would be the last we’d see of shorts for the week. Things got brisk quick once our ship got out into the Inside Passage. Read more about what to pack for an Alaska cruise if you’re headed here soon.
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Did Wilderness Discovere sail out of Providense, R.L. before sailing out of Alaska?
The Capt. was, Jamie Delisle.
He also brought the boat from Rhode Island to Alaska.
Thank you, Frank Stoll
Hi Frank,
Thank you for your comment, we are so glad you reached out! Yes, Wilderness Discoverer was originally built in Rhode Island and you are correct, Captain Jaime was at the helm when delivering her from Rhode Island to Alaska. Fun fact: Three members of the AdventureSmith Team, including our founder and president, Todd Smith, worked closely with Jaime during his time with the Wilderness Discoverer. Working alongside Captain Jaime they also did Wilderness Discoverer’s first recon missions in Baja to write her early Baja cruise itineraries. Fond memories indeed. If you haven’t been aboard, we’d love to help you make that happen.