Three Day Juneau Itinerary

Juneau, backed by impossibly steep, green mountains, and fronted by Gastineau Channel, is inaccessible by road; you’ll need to fly or float into what is probably the nation’s most scenic capital city. Sitting on Auke Kwaan and Taku Kwaan lands, the town was for thousands of years an Tlingit fishing ground called Dzantik’i Héeni. Gold was discovered in the late 1800s and the town of Juneau was subsequently established. It’s now the capital of the state, and its culture is a blend of government business, fishing industry, and tourism showcasing its abundant and astounding wilderness.

Three days here gives you enough time to explore the town’s steep downtown streets as well as wander to the literal end of the road. Note you’ll need to rent a car for at least one day of this itinerary.

Day 1:

Today, explore central Juneau on a walking tour (either self-guided or with an official tour guide) of its steep streets and rich history. The goal is to take in the beautiful scenery: a modern and colorful waterfront city with a backdrop of vertical, rainforested mountains with wisps of clouds clinging to the trees. As you wander, don’t miss the Alaska State Capitol building, home of the Alaska Legislature and the Governor.

During your walk, make sure to visit some of the many museums that Juneau has to offer. The Alaska State Museum is the home to fascinating exhibits on Alaska history, local Indigenous culture, fine art, natural history, and more. View the largest collection of Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian art in Alaska at the Sealaska Heritage Institute, including an authentic clan house and monumental contemporary art installations.  Wander through the Juneau-Douglas City Museum to take in all things Southeast Alaska: fishing, skiing, and mining, as well as local history and culture. This was the site of the Statehood Ceremony in 1959. Also worth a visit is the Last Chance Mining Museum & Historical Park, located at the foot of the mountains behind Juneau. The museum is set in a historic compressor building amongst Juneau’s lush vegetation, and you’ll need to hike up a short path to reach it.

Finally, end your busy day marveling at the views of the Chilkoot Mountains and Stephen’s Passage from the Goldbelt Tram as it ascends Mt. Roberts. The large cable car takes six minutes to cruise up to its terminus, and you can catch it right next to the cruise ship terminal south of downtown. From the top of the tram you can wander one of the several hiking paths on the lookout for wildlife, or push to the summit of Mt. Roberts. Have lunch or dinner with a side of panoramic views at the Timberline Bar & Grill.

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Day 2:

Take a road trip as far as the road will allow you on your second day in Juneau. First, spend the morning photographing the glowing Mendenhall Glacier, which is half a mile wide at its thickest. Hiking trails around it abound, including the relatively mellow walk to roaring Nugget Falls, and guided hikes can take you onto the glacier itself – with the help of crampons and other gear. Other trails, some on elevated boardwalks, give you the chance to see salmon and or even bears from above. The US Forest Service also runs an excellent visitor center where you can learn about the history – and the future – of this river of ice.

From here continue driving north. Take your time, stopping for photos and a picnic along the shores of Auke Bay – be sure to look for whales spouting or feeding out on the water. Swing by the Shrine of Saint Therese, a darling stone church nestled in the woods. You can follow the Stations of the Cross trail through the mossy forest or walk the waterside labyrinth.

The road ends at Echo Cove, nearly 50 miles from downtown Juneau. Kayaking tours depart from here, or you can walk a mile down the beach for incredible views of Berner’s Bay. Enjoy the views on the drive back to Juneau. Dinner at one of the city’s fine restaurants will be the perfect reward for a day behind the wheel.

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Day 3:

Embark on a whale watching tour for the bulk of today. Depending on the season, you may see orcas or humpback whales. You’re also likely to spot sea lions, porpoises, eagles, and maybe even a bear on shore. Tours last around 3.5 hours, and some add a combo kayak trip or glacier visit to them if you wish for a longer tour.

In the evening, take in a local production at the Perseverance Theatre, whose mission is to create professional theater by and for Alaskans. From classic Shakespeare to original scripts, shows here are always a good time and a great introduction to local culture. Make it a special night with a seafood dinner downtown.

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Optional Day 4:

Like many towns in the Inside Passage, Juneau has a vibrant fishing community. Take advantage of the abundant sea life (with bonus stunning views in every direction)  on a half- or full-day fishing charter.