Family Friendly Things to Do in Juneau

Located in the heart of Southeast Alaska, Juneau a vibrant city surrounded by wilderness and waterways that offer a wide variety of family-friendly activities. Whether you’re visiting with young children or teenagers, Juneau has something for everyone to enjoy. From exciting outdoor adventures to immersive cultural experiences, the Capital City promises an unforgettable vacation for the whole family.

Mendenhall Glacier and Visitor Center

A trip to Juneau wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the stunning Mendenhall Glacier, located just 12 miles from downtown. As one of the most accessible glaciers in the U.S., it’s perfect for families looking to enjoy both the beauty of nature and a bit of adventure. At the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, learn about the glacier’s history, the surrounding environment, and wildlife found in the area. For those looking for a more hands-on experience, the Mendenhall Glacier also offers a variety of easy to moderate hikes, ideal for families with young children or strollers. If you're feeling adventurous, consider booking a kayaking tour on Mendenhall Lake, where you can paddle right up to the base of the glacier. It’s a great way to combine outdoor exploration with a little family fun.

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Whale Watching Tours

Juneau is known for its rich marine life, and one of the best ways to experience it is through whale watching excursions. While the waters surrounding Juneau are home to a variety of whale species, the most notable is the humpback, which migrates to the area in the summer months to take advantage of the cool, food-rich waters. Several local companies offer half-day family-friendly tours, where experienced guides take you through the waters, pointing out whales, sea lions, and other wildlife. These tours are designed to be comfortable and engaging for families, with educational activities that teach kids about marine biology and conservation. Whether cruising along the coastline or venturing into open water, you'll have plenty of opportunities to spot humpbacks breaching, feeding, and tail-slapping, creating an unforgettable experience for all ages.

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Mount Roberts Tramway

For an unforgettable panoramic view of Juneau, the Mount Roberts Tramway is the perfect family activity. This scenic tramway carries visitors 1,800 feet up Mount Roberts (Tlingit: Wooshkeenax̱ Deiyí) from downtown Juneau, offering breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscapes. The gondolas provide an exciting ride above the city, where you'll be treated to impressive scenery, Alaska Native culture, and art as well as opportunities for shopping and dining. From the top of the Tramway, explore the nature center, which features interactive exhibits about the area's natural history, and kids will love spotting wildlife from the observation deck. Hiking trails around the nature center offer various levels of difficulty and remarkable views above the treeline of Gastineau Channel and beyond. The tramway ride itself is a thrilling experience, especially for young children, who will enjoy soaring above Juneau and taking in the stunning scenery from a birds-eye view.

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Macaulay Salmon Hatchery

The Macaulay Salmon Hatchery is a must-see attraction for visitors to Juneau, especially families with children. The hatchery features large seawater aquariums filled with over 150 species of marine life and a sky-bridge to view hatchery operations. Experienced local guides provide informative and engaging natural history explanations and commentary about the life cycles of the five species of Pacific salmon found here. From July to September, children can watch the incredible sight of thousands of salmon battling fishladders as they make their way upstream to spawn, all visible through an underwater viewing window. Visitors of all ages will love the tide pool touch tanks, where they can interact with local sea critters. The hatchery’s gift shop offers fish-themed mementos, including unique items with fishy flavors. Visitors can also sample a variety of delicious smoked salmon products and ship Wild Alaska Salmon products home year-round.

Alaska State Museum

For families looking to immerse themselves in Alaska's culture and history, the Alaska State Museum is another must-visit location. Home to more than 23,000 artifacts, works of fine art, and natural history, the museum provides a comprehensive overview of the state's cultural history, from Indigenous cultures to the impact of European exploration and the discovery of gold. Kids will enjoy interactive exhibits on wildlife, Alaska Native art, and early pioneers. While there are permanent exhibits including the Alaska Native Gallery, Foreign Voyagers Exhibit, and World War II Exhibit, the museum also features rotating exhibits, so there’s always something new to explore. One of the most engaging areas is the Hands-On Discovery Room, where kids can participate in activities like making traditional crafts or learning about local geology, offering fun, interactive experiences.

Sealaska Heritage Institute

The Sealaska Heritage Institute's Walter Soboleff Building in downtown Juneau is a great spot for families to further explore Alaska Native culture. Featuring the largest collection of Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian art in Alaska, families can immerse themselves in the rich cultural traditions and history of the area. An authentic clan house gives a look into Alaska Native life and exhibits stories and artwork from local Pacific Northwest Coast cultures. The Sealaska Heritage Institute Arts Campus is family-friendly, featuring artists working in both indoor and outdoor studios. The campus hosts performances, markets, and cultural events, offering families a chance to enjoy live entertainment and meet local artists. It’s a wonderful place for families to learn and experience Alaska Native culture.

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As the state’s capital, Juneau is a family-friendly destination with an assortment of exciting, educational, and outdoor activities. Whether you’re interested in exploring the natural beauty of glaciers, experiencing wildlife up close, or learning about the state’s rich history and culture, there’s something for every family member to enjoy. These experiences will not only create lasting memories but also deepen your family's appreciation for the stunning beauty and rich natural and cultural history of Juneau, a capital city on the edge of wilderness.