tourist map juneau

Map of Juneau — Best attractions, restaurants, and transportation info

What’s on this map.

We’ve made the ultimate tourist map of Juneau, Alaska for travelers! Check out Juneau’s top things to do, attractions, restaurants, and major transportation hubs all in one interactive map.

Visiting Juneau? See our Juneau Trip Planner.

How to use the map

Use this interactive map to plan your trip before and while in Juneau. Learn about each place by clicking it on the map or read more in the article below. Here’s more ways to perfect your trip using our Juneau map:

• Explore the best restaurants, shopping, and things to do in Juneau by categories
• Get directions in Google Maps to each place
• Export all places to save to your Google Maps
• Plan your travels by turning on metro and bus lines
• Create a Wanderlog trip plan (link to create a trip plan for the city) that keep all the places on the map in your phone
• Print a physical map to bring it on your trip

Top 18 attractions in Juneau

Nugget falls, mendenhall glacier.

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Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center

Mount roberts tramway, glacier gardens rainforest adventure.

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Alaska State Museum

Alaskan brewing co, national shrine of st. thérèse, juneau, dipac macaulay salmon hatchery, amalga distillery, saint nicholas russian orthodox church, juneau-douglas city museum, aj mine gastineau mill tours, sealaska heritage institute.

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Mendenhall Lake

E glacier trail, patsy ann statue, top 10 restaurants in juneau, the rookery cafe.

The Hangar On The Wharf

Tracy’s king crab shack, v's cellar, in bocca al lupo, red dog saloon, zerelda's bistro.

Pel'meni

Sandpiper cafe, transportation in juneau, nearby airports, juneau international airport, highways and major roads.

• Glacier Highway
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• North Douglas Highway
• Montana Creek Road
• Auke Bay Harbor Road
• Lena Point Road

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Popular road trips from juneau, what's the weather like in juneau.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Juneau for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

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All road trips from Juneau

• Juneau to Seattle drive
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Explore nearby places

• the Kobuk Valley National Park
• Gates Of The Arctic National Park and Preserve
• Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve
• Point Baker
• Coffman Cove
• Haines Junction

All related maps of Juneau

• Map of the Kobuk Valley National Park
• Map of Gates Of The Arctic National Park and Preserve
• Map of Douglas
• Map of Hoonah
• Map of Gustavus
• Map of Angoon
• Map of Pelican
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Juneau throughout the year

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Juneau Map: The Attractions

Mt. Roberts Tramway

Red dog saloon.

The State Capitol Building

Alaska State Museum

Hard rock miner statue, tracy's king crab shack, alaskan brewing co, governor's house, last chance mining museum.

St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church

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12 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Juneau

Written by Chloë Ernst and Brad Lane Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

There is no road to Juneau, the capital of Alaska . This small, coastal city lies in the most southerly part of the state on the Panhandle — a narrow tongue of land slashed by fjord-like inlets. A string of small islands buffers it from the sea. As such, it can only be reached by sea or air.

Despite its remote location, tourists and interested explorers often visit Juneau for its wide range of cultural and natural attractions. Among the many fun things to do and reasons to visit, the Mendenhall Glacier , just 12 miles northwest of downtown, is an impressive sight and a great introduction to the ice-filled world surrounding this capital city.

Though Juneau is home to state offices and a busy cruise ship port, it still retains the air of a gold-diggers' settlement, having been founded in the 1880s on Gold Creek. The mix of historical and modern tourist attractions also includes a Russian Orthodox church (1894) and abandoned mines turned into museums.

Juneau is also a good base to explore glacier-draped fjords, like Glacier Bay National Park and Tracy Arm ; the wilderness of the Tongass National Forest ; and other scenic beauties of the Panhandle. Find out more about the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Juneau.

See also: Where to Stay in Juneau

1. Experience Mendenhall Glacier

2. charter a ride to tracy arm fjord, 3. experience glacier gardens rainforest adventure, 4. glacier bay national park, 5. ascend to a great view on the goldbelt tram, 6. whale watch off the coast, 7. get hands-on at the macaulay salmon hatchery, 8. visit the alaska state museum, 9. dig into the past at the last chance mining museum, 10. tour the state capitol building, 11. explore the city at the juneau-douglas city museum, 12. eaglecrest ski area, where to stay in juneau for sightseeing, shore excursions.

There is a truly scenic panorama just 12 miles from downtown Juneau. The wide outlet of Nugget Falls churns into a lake dotted with icebergs, and the tongue of the Mendenhall Glacier dips down to the water's edge. The glacier is about thirteen miles long and is fed by the much larger Juneau Icefield, which blankets more than 1,500 square miles of terrain stretching into British Columbia.

The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center on the lakeshore is a great spot to start your visit, where you can capture a 180-degree view over the glacier. Some of the best views are from the walking trails in the area, with routes running up either side of the glacier and to Nugget Falls. Kayaking and rafting tours also venture out on the very cold lake.

A good way to explore the glacier is by booking a private tour with round-trip transportation. One such tour, the Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier expedition includes a ride to the glacier and a two-hour cruise along the coast. The tour spends approximately 45 minutes at Mendenhall, where guests are free to explore on their own.

Location: 12 miles northwest of Juneau

Southeast of Juneau, this ice-cloaked glacial fjord cuts through spectacular scenery with waterfalls tumbling and glaciers calving off chunks of ice to create small bergs. The impressive twin Sawyer Glaciers are at the head of the fjord, and their radiant blue ice is considered especially enchanting.

The huge walls of Tracy Arm Fjord rise almost vertically out of the water, with trees jutting out at quirky and unusual angles. The fjord is quite long, stretching back into the mainland through the Tongass National Forest .

Common wildlife sightings include black bears, brown bears, deer, and moose along this stretch, and there is a good chance of spotting bald eagles, arctic terns, and pigeon guillemots over the ocean. Whales and seals make frequent appearances in the blue waters below.

You can learn about the natural history of Tracy Arm, its glaciers, and wildlife by taking a guided cruise. Several companies in Juneau offer day trips from the port and back. Companies like Allen Marine Tours offer six-hour tours in a heated catamaran.

Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure is part landscaped botanical center and part excursion into the rainforest environment that defines the Tongass National Forest. It's located northwest of downtown, toward Mendenhall Glacier.

Tours at this family-friendly attraction begin with a guided walk through the lower landscaped gardens, including the story behind the unique Flower Tower planters derived from a massive 1984 landslide.

After covering the lower grounds, patrons hop aboard an open-sided shuttle to tour the rest of the 50-acre property on Thunder Mountain . This is not a garden, but an area of forest left largely in its natural state.

Tour guides discuss the various species and workings of the gardens to better understand the wooded environment. The tour stops at various locations, boardwalks, and viewpoints overlooking the Mendenhall Valley , Chilkat Mountains , Gastineau Channel , and Juneau .

Each tour lasts approximately an hour, and guests are welcome to explore the lower grounds and Visitor Center at their leisure afterward. Plan for at least two hours for a visit. Glacier Gardens is open seven days a week from May through the end of October.

Address: 7600 Glacier Highway, Juneau, Alaska

Glacier Bay National Park covers more than three million acres and is one of the major places to visit in Alaska's famed Inside Passage . Natural attractions and rewarding things to do are found on land and water in this larger-than-life national park. And, both environments offer stunning scenery with immense glaciers, temperate rainforests, secluded fjords, and a rugged coastline.

Glacier Bay itself sits between two promontories, and eight glaciers reach down to meet the tidewaters. On land, Bartlett Cove is the only area with developed hiking trails and designated campgrounds, as well as sea kayaks available for rent. Bartlett Cove is only accessible by plane or boat, with most visitors landing in the nearby Gustavus via plane or ferry.

Glacier Bay is a major feeding ground for humpback, minke, and orca whales. The region attracts many tourists wanting to catch a glimpse of these underwater mammals. Other wildlife-watching opportunities include sighting moose, bears, wolves, and mountain goats, as well as sea birds. Day trips and flightseeing excursions are available from Juneau, as well as longer overnight cruise adventures.

Visitor Center Address: 179 Barlett Cove Road, Gustavus, Alaska

The Goldbelt Tram, also known as the Mount Roberts Tramway , takes you to an elevation of 1,800 feet from a base camp near the cruise ship docks. After the six-minute vertical ride, visitors walk the nature trails to take in the views over the Gastineau Channel complete with interpretive information along the way.

A mountaintop observatory also greets visitors with a nature center, restaurant, theater, and gift shop. The Mountain House at the top also hosts a live eagle display, a collection of tree carvings, and Alaskan art for sale.

It's also well worth the time to stop at the Chilkat Theatre at the base of the tram, where passengers load. This 120-seat theatre shows the 18-minute award-winning film "Seeing Daylight," which highlights the continuing legacy of the Tlingit People. It adds excellent context to any visit.

Address: 490 South Franklin Street, Juneau, Alaska

Spotting a whale in the waters of the Inside Passage is an absolute quintessential Juneau experience. The city is widely known as one of the best places to spot these massive mammals, or specifically, the best place to spot humpback whales. Orcas, also known as killer whales, also inhabit the region's waters but are more elusive by nature.

Humpback and other whales migrate back to the waters of Alaska during the late spring and summer. The peak summer months are the best time to visit Juneau with whale-sighting intentions.

The best and only guaranteed way to see whales is by getting on a boat. And it's such a guarantee that many local charter companies offer full refunds if a single whale doesn't make an appearance. One recommended tour, the Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching excursion, features a 3.5-hour narrated journey on a boat with outdoor decks and a heated cabin.

The Macaulay Salmon Hatchery provides a look underwater with saltwater aquariums and tide-pool touch tanks. It's northwest of town en route to the Mendenhall Glacier and the hatchery raises chum, chinook, coho, and sockeye salmon. And as a working operation, visitors catch a variety of stages in the life cycle of Pacific salmon during a guided tour through the facility.

Other permanent exhibits at the hatchery include a bear and eagle display; education exhibits; and an outdoor viewing window, where you can see salmon swimming upstream from June through early October.

The Hatchery is open seven days a week between May and September, and by appointment only throughout the rest of the year. It's a small rate for admission to see all the indoor and outdoor exhibits, and an additional fee for an extended hatchery tour.

Address: 2697 Channel Drive, Juneau, Alaska

In downtown Juneau, the Alaska State Museum features more than 25,000 historical objects spanning Alaska's entire multicultural heritage. Gold Rush and mining memorabilia represent American history throughout the region, and various tools, weapons, and documents shed light on the Russian colonial era of Alaska.

The native heritage of Alaska is best represented at the museum, including ancient artifacts and an extensive Eskimo-carved ivory collection. Contemporary art by native Alaskans is also on display, as well as other fine art mediums. The museum also routinely rotates exhibits from current artists and other collections, offering something new to see with each stay.

The Alaska State Museums umbrella also includes the Sheldon Jackson Museum in the rugged and welcoming city and borough of Sitka . Visit this brightly lit museum space while exploring the rugged nature of Sitka and enjoy additional displays of regional art and indigenous culture.

Address: 395 Whittier Street, Juneau, Alaska

The Alaska Juneau Gold Mining Company operated on this site from 1912 until 1944, and the location truly looks like an old mine with uneven ground, rusting buildings, and old equipment decaying quietly in the trees. The Gastineau Channel Historical Society operates the museum, maintaining the displays of mining equipment and rail cars.

Of particular interest at Last Chance Mining Museum are one of the world's largest air compressors, built in 1912, and an electric locomotive. The attraction is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Wear sturdy footwear, and note that the museum is closed during the winter months.

Address: 1001 Basin Road, Juneau, Alaska

When Alaska became a state in 1959, this territorial and federal building became the state capitol building. The Art Deco design and furnishings of the interior lobby easily catch the eye, and historical photographs, artworks, and rooms to discover are found throughout. Free self-guided tours and brochures are available to the public during normal operating hours.

The replica Liberty Bell outside is a fun spot to pose for a picture. After exploring the Capitol, head along Fourth Street and then Calhoun Avenue to see the exterior of the Governor's Mansion . This 26-room home isn't open for public tours, but its grand status and stately columns are architecturally pleasing.

Address: Fourth and Main Streets, Juneau, Alaska

The Juneau-Douglas City Museum , next to the State Capitol building , offers exhibits on the Tlingit culture, the early gold-mining days, and the history of the Juneau-Douglas area.

For more sightseeing, the small, steep streets surrounding the museum are lined with old wooden heritage homes and lush gardens, as well as the pretty blue-and-white St. Nicholas Orthodox Church — which dates to 1894.

Tuesday through Thursday throughout the summer, the museum hosts guided walking tours of these neighborhoods. The museum is open to the public seven days a week between May and September and Tuesday through Saturday the rest of the year. Admission is free throughout the winter.

Address: 114 West Fourth Street, Juneau, Alaska

Eaglecrest Ski Area is on Douglas Island , separated from the Juneau mainland by the Gastineau Channel, providing ski slopes with ocean views. The ski area is owned and operated by the city of Juneau, and locals and visitors hit the slopes within a twenty-minute drive from downtown.

The 36 runs and four chairlifts cater to beginners and seasoned skiers alike, and 10 miles of Nordic trails appeal to cross-country skiers in the area. A typical season at Eaglecrest runs from December through April, and come summertime, the area is a great hiking and downhill mountain biking destination.

Address: 3000 Fish Creek Road, Juneau, Alaska

Read More: Best Ski Resorts in Alaska

We recommend these cozy hotels in Juneau close to downtown attractions and the cruise port:

• Best Western Grandma's Feather Bed : mid-range pricing, historic charm, feather beds, made-to-order breakfast, hot tub, shuttle service.
• Four Points by Sheraton Juneau : 3-star modern mid-rise, water views, near cruise port, fitness center.
• Silverbow Inn Hotel & Suites : affordable boutique hotel, downtown location, well-appointed rooms, complimentary breakfast, hot tub.
• Super 8 by Wyndham Juneau : budget hotel, convenient location, modern decor, free breakfast.

Guided Ice Field Walk:

• To reach remote Alaskan landscapes few other people ever visit, the 2.5-hour Helicopter Tour and Guided Icefield Walk from the Juneau Port takes you where no cars can go. The adventure begins with a narrated helicopter ride over the icefield, enabling a bird's-eye view of the stunning icefalls and rock formations, before landing on Herbert Glacier for on-foot exploration. While immersed in the icy environment, the helicopter guide provides more information on the geological works at play and can snap your picture as you pose on the glacier. On the helicopter ride back to port, the views are just as amazing.

Dogsledding Experience:

• Few other activities epitomize Alaska better than dogsledding, and to get a first-hand experience of the mushing lifestyle, try the June Shore Excursion: Helicopter Tour and Dogsledding Experience . This tour starts with a helicopter ride over the Juneau Icefield before touching down at a glacier camp. Here, you spend time dogsledding. Meeting the mushers and enjoying the unique chance to ride a dogsled.

More on Alaska

• Alaska Marine Highway Maps
• Portage Glacier Map
• 1895 Alaska Map
• Wrangell Map
• Exit Glacier Map
• Volcano Map
• Kenai Fjords Map
• SE Alaska Satellite Map
• Katmai / Brooks Falls Map
• Aleutian Islands Map
• Denali Campground Map
• Ketchikan Trail Maps
• Ketchikan Area Map

Juneau Downtown Area Map

• Exit Glacier Trail Map
• Photo Gallery
• Alaska History
• Totem Bight State Historic Park
• Sitka National Historical Park
• Aurora Borealis
• Alaska FAQ’s
• Native Peoples
• Alaska Plant Listings
• Animal Tracks
• Alaska Jobs
• Glacier Bay National Park
• Ketchikan Trails
• Kenai Fjords National Park
• Katmai National Park
• Misty Fiords National Monument
• Arctic National Wildlife Refuge
• Hatcher Pass
• Potter Marsh
• Kenai River
• Matanuska-Susitna Valley
• Klondike Gold Rush
• Aleutian Islands
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• Juneau Trails
• Cordova Trails
• Denali Hiking
• Alaska Temperatures
• How to get to Alaska
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• Iditarod Trail Race
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• Fur Rendezvous Festival
• Alaska State Fair
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• Berry Picking
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• Russian River Fishing
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• Wildlife Viewing
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• Gold Panning
• Whale Watching
• Alaska Native Heritage Center
• Flightseeing
• Southcentral
• Southwestern
• Portage Glacier
• Byron Glacier Trail
• Exit Glacier
• Mendenhall Glacier
• Matanuska Glacier
• Columbia Glacier

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Juneau Alaska History:

Juneau was named after gold prospector Joe Juneau. The Tlingit name of the town is Dzántik’i Héeni “flounder creek”. From before the time of European settlement in the Americas, the Gastineau Channel was a favorite fishing ground for local Tlingit Indians who had inhabited the area for thousands of years. The native cultures are rich with artistic traditions including carving, weaving, singing and dancing.

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Juneau tourist map

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Top Adventures in Juneau

Juneau might be Alaska’s capital , but the city offers much more than business and politics. From easy sightseeing to epic outdoor adventures , Juneau’s activities and attractions include everything you’d want for a trip-of-a-lifetime in Alaska. Whether you’re staying for a day or a week, here are a few of the most popular things to do in Juneau. 

Mendenhall Glacier

Please see this important Mendenhall Glacier Update.  Juneau’s most popular attraction (for a good reason), the Mendenhall Glacier is a half-mile wide, with ice 300 to 1,800 feet deep. It provides some of the most spectacular landscapes in Alaska. Even more amazing, the glacier constantly moves and changes with the seasons — so no two visits are alike. Pressed for time? Don’t miss the view from the visitor’s pavilion, which will only take about 90 minutes. You’ll be able to take some great photos, too. With a little more time, enjoy beautiful hiking trails that get you up close to the glacier and its surrounding nature. The most rewarding hike is to Nugget Falls. Imagine a very large, beautiful waterfall cascading directly into an iceberg-filled lake with a glacier in the background — ready to visit?

Whale Watching

Hop on a boat for a classic Alaska whale watching adventure . At the right time of year, you’re bound to see humpbacks and orcas congregate in the calm waters and put on a show. See them flip their tails above water or breach (when they leap all the way out of the water and then splash back down). With luck, you’ll get the breathtaking sight of bubble net feeding—a unique technique used by humpback whales circling and blowing bubbles to bring fish to the surface of the water when they spontaneously swim upward together. Many options are available for whale watching tours, from large catamarans to medium sized jet boats to smaller six-passenger vessels. Most operators guarantee whale sightings, and tours generally last 3-4 hours and include transportation.

Tracy Arm Fjord

Forty-five miles outside of Juneau, this scenic destination has it all — mammoth glaciers, towering granite walls, breathtaking mountains, waterfalls, and a large variety of wildlife. Tracy Arm is a 30-mile long fjord — a narrow inlet created by glacial activity — formed thousands of years ago. It winds its way past 7,000-foot snow-capped mountains and floating icebergs. At the end of the fjord lies the stunning Sawyer Glaciers, translucent blue mountains rising majestically out of the water. About once every hour, the North Sawyer and South Sawyer glaciers “calve” — an awe-inspiring phenomena in which large chunks of ice tumble into the sea below. Tracy Arm is also home to a large variety of wildlife including bald eagles, brown bears, goats, and whales. It provides some wonderful opportunities for capturing beautiful vacation memories.

Historic Juneau

Wander the streets of downtown Juneau and you'll come across unique sites that make this historic district the gem that it is. In just a few square miles, browse buildings celebrating Alaska's Native heritage , multiple museums and an arts center. Make pit stops along the way at multiple public art installations, such as the Before I Die... board, multiple totems, the Ancon Mural... the list goes on. Stop by one of Travel Juneau's visitor information sites for a Downtown Walking Tour Map and be your own guide!

Admiralty Island

No trip to Alaska is complete without bears. Just twenty minutes from Juneau by floatplane is Admiralty Island , home to one of the world's highest density brown bear populations. Nicknamed “Fortress of the Bears,” there are approximately 1,600 bears — one for every square mile of the island. The most popular place to see these big, fuzzy creatures in action is Pack Creek Bear Sanctuary. Watch bears feed on salmon during the peak viewing season (July through August). In addition to bear viewing, you might spot seabirds, harbor seals, sea lions, whales, Sitka black-tail deer, or sea otters. The island is also home to the world’s greatest concentration of nesting bald eagles. Permits are required and a guided tour can help provide them and arrange transportation. You can reach the island via floatplane, boat, or kayak, depending on weather and ability. 

Salmon Fishing

There’s no doubt Alaska is one of the greatest fishing spots in the world. In addition to its huge halibut, Alaska offers five types of Pacific salmon and each has a season. Hire a professional guide to pick the best option on any given day, and Juneau offers dozens of excellent fishing guide services . Full- and half-day charters take you on guided fishing trips, either in a boat, on shore, or by hopping a floatplane to a remote river or lake. You can rent a skiff or charter a vessel to customize your own fishing adventure. A number of options are available to process and ship your prized catch home for you, including Jerry’s Meats and Seafoods and Alaska Seafood Company. Learn more about salmon fishing in Juneau here .

Visitor Information

The most complete Juneau travel information is available from: The Juneau Convention and Visitors Bureau .

Juneau Sights and Destinations

• Alaska State Museum
• House of Wickersham
• Juneau-Douglas City Museum
• Patsy Ann Statue
• Mt. Roberts Tram

Transportation

• Alaska Airlines
• Alaska Marine Highway System
• Capital Transit
• Juneau Harbors
• Juneau International Airport

Weather Links

• Live Cams at Juneau Public Library
• National Weather Service
• Tide Tables
• Weather.com
• Weather Underground

Other Information Useful to Visitors

• Accessibility of Tours, Activities and Facilities in Juneau (Document Courtesy of Juneau Convention and Visitors Bureau)
• Office of Economic Development
• Alaska Wildlife Notebook from the Alaska Department of Fish and Game
• Broadcasting and Publishing in Juneau
• Centennial Hall Convention Center
• Juneau Maps
• Photos of Juneau
• Relocating to Alaska from the Alaska Department of Labor
• SLED — Statewide Library Electronic Doorway Excellent source of Alaska information. Especially the Alaska FAQ

Fast Facts About Juneau

The current population of Juneau is 32,739 (State of Alaska 2016).

Type of Government The City and Borough of Juneau is a home-rule municipality under the Constitution of the State of Alaska. It has a Council/Manager form of government. The Borough Assembly is composed of the Mayor and eight Assembly members.

• Outline History of Juneau city government

The Juneau economy is based on State, local, and Federal government, tourism, mining, fishing, and logging. For more complete information see:

• Alaska Department of Community and Economic Development –Search database of community and economic information.
• Juneau Economic Development Council
• Comprehensive Annual Financial Report

Size and Location

Located in the Panhandle of Southeast Alaska, 900 air miles north of Seattle and 600 air miles south of Anchorage. 58 18 N Latitude, 134 24 W Longitude

• Area: 2, 593.6 square miles of land and 487.6 square miles of water.
• Maps of Juneau

Brief History

• Home to Tlingit Indian tribes.
• 1880 — Gold discovered by Chief Kowee, Richard Harris, and Joe Juneau.
• 1881 — Town is named “Juneau City”.
• 1900 — Becomes capital of the Alaska Territory.
• 1959 — Statehood. Juneau becomes capital of the State of Alaska.
• 1970 — Unification with the City of Douglas and surrounding areas into the City & Borough of Juneau.
• Read more about Juneau history
• Gallery of Historic Photos of Juneau

Climate & Day Length

Juneau has a mild, maritime climate. The mean annual temperature is 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Winter temperatures seldom drop below 20 degrees Fahrenheit and summer temperatures seldom exceed 65 degrees. Abundant rainfall contributes to the growth of very large Sitka spruce and Western hemlock in the coastal forests and to abundant fish populations in local waters. Snowfall is heavy in most winters, averaging 101 inches. Statistically, June is the month with the least rainfall.

Juneau does not have the “midnight sun” experienced further north in Alaska, but day length is much longer in the summer and much shorter in the winter than in the “Lower 48” states. Long twilight makes the effective day length longer in summer and shorter in winter than the times shown in the table below.

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Can You Drive to Juneau Alaska? Travel to Juneau (2024)

H ave you found yourself scratching your head and wondering if you can drive to Juneau, Alaska? If so, you’re not alone. This question has puzzled many travelers planning their Alaskan adventure.

Can you drive to Juneau Alaska? The short answer is no, you can’t drive directly to Juneau from anywhere.

As someone who lived in the huge state of Alaska for seven years, I’ve gathered a wealth of knowledge about its unique geography and transportation quirks.

In this post, we’ll unravel the mystery surrounding the accessibility of Juneau, a city known for its stunning landscapes and rich history.

We’ll tackle the complexities of Alaskan geography and transportation, providing clear, reliable information to dispel any doubts you might have.

Whether you’re planning a trip to the Last Frontier or just satisfying your curiosity, this post is designed to guide you through the confusion.

Can You Drive to Juneau, Alaska?

Despite being the capital city of Alaska, Juneau is unique in that it’s not connected to the rest of the state by a road system.

Nestled at the base of towering mountains and surrounded by the waters of the Gastineau Channel, Juneau is what’s known as a ‘roadless city.’

It is a city that’s as unique as it is beautiful. Nestled in the heart of the Inside Passage of the Alaska Marine Highway, it’s a place where mountains and glaciers serve as the backdrop to everyday life.

But there’s that weird catch – if there isn’t a road that leads directly to Juneau, how do you get there?

Well, it’s all part of the Alaskan adventure! You could drive to Bellingham in Washington State and hop on a ferry for a scenic journey.

Or, if you’re up for an epic road trip, you could traverse part of the iconic Alaskan-Canadian Highway and then catch a ferry from Skagway to Juneau.

Either way, the journey to Juneau is just as memorable as the destination itself!

Is Juneau Only Accessible by Boat?

While boat travel is a popular way to reach Juneau, it’s not the only option. Juneau is primarily accessible by two means: by sea and by air.

BY SEA : The Alaska Marine Highway System operates ferries that connect Juneau with other communities in Southeast Alaska, as well as with Bellingham, Washington. This is a scenic and popular way to reach Juneau, allowing you to bring your vehicle with you.

BY AIR : Juneau International Airport serves as a major hub for air travel in Southeast Alaska. It offers regular flights to and from several Alaskan cities and towns, as well as seasonal flights to Seattle, Washington.

So, while you can’t drive directly to Juneau, you have options when it comes to choosing your mode of transportation. Whether you prefer the leisurely pace of a ferry ride or the speed and convenience of air travel, getting to Juneau is part of the fun!

How Do I Get My Car to Juneau?

If you want to bring your car to Juneau, the most feasible option is to use the Alaska Marine Highway System, which operates a network of ferries that transport people, vehicles, and cargo to various locations in Alaska such as Whittier, Valdez , Homer, Ketchikan, and Haines, to name a few.

Here’s how you can do it:

• Drive to a Ferry Terminal : The southernmost terminal of the Alaska Marine Highway System is in Bellingham, Washington. You can drive your car to this terminal.
• Take the Ferry : Once you reach the terminal, you can load your car onto the ferry. The ferry will then transport you and your car along the scenic Inside Passage to Juneau. The journey takes about 2-3 days, depending on the specific route and schedule.

Remember to book your ferry passage in advance, especially during the busy summer months. Also, note that the cost of ferry travel will depend on the size of your vehicle and the number of passengers.

So, while you can’t drive directly to Juneau, you can certainly bring your car with you and enjoy the freedom of having your vehicle once you’re there!

What to Pack for Your Juneau Adventure

Heading on an adventure to Juneau, Alaska, is an exciting prospect! To ensure you’re well-prepared for your trip, it’s important to pack appropriately. Here’s a practical guide to help you decide what to bring, depending on the season and your planned activities.

Clothing : Regardless of the season, layering is key in Juneau. The weather can change quickly, so it’s best to be prepared.

• A mix of short and long-sleeved tops
• Warm sweater or fleece, and a waterproof jacket
• Knit hat and light gloves
• Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city
• Gore-Tex hiking boots if you plan to hit the trails.

Outdoor Gear : If you’re planning outdoor activities, consider packing the following items to make your day more comfortable and efficient.

• Binoculars for wildlife viewing
• Reusable water bottle
• Backpack for day trips

Summer Accessories : If the sun is shining, which admittedly, doesn’t always happen, you will want some protection!

• Cap or baseball hat
• Bug spray can also be useful

Winter : Winter in Alaska can be brutally cold. Juneau can be damp as well as it is rainier in this area.

• Warm waterproof mittens
• Fleece-lined hat
• Thermal Layers
• Waterproof winter boots

Essentials : Everyone has those personal needs that one doesn’t want to forget to pack! Make a list and check it twice.

• Travel documents
• Medications
• Any specialty items you might not be able to find easily in Juneau

Remember, packing for Juneau is all about preparing for adventure and being ready to embrace the elements, whatever the weather may bring.

Top Attractions in Juneau Alaska

Here are some of the top attractions that visitors to Juneau, Alaska, should not miss that work well for day trip ideas:

• Mendenhall Glacier : This stunning glacier is located just 12 miles from downtown Juneau and is one of the city’s most popular attractions. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities here, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center.
• Tracy Arm Fjord : Known for its stunning natural beauty, Tracy Arm Fjord offers breathtaking views of glaciers, mountains, and wildlife. Boat tours are a popular way to explore this area.
• Mount Roberts Tramway : This tramway offers a quick and scenic ride to the top of Mount Roberts, where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Juneau and the surrounding area.
• Alaska State Museum : This museum offers a comprehensive look at Alaska’s history, culture, and art. It’s a must-visit for those interested in learning more about the state.
• Juneau Whale-Watching Tours : Juneau is a great place to spot humpback whales and killer whales (orcas), especially between April and November. Several tour operators offer whale-watching excursions.
• Alaska State Capitol : A tour of the Alaska State Capitol building provides insight into the state’s political history and processes.
• Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure : This botanical garden offers guided tours through a lush rainforest, with beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
• Juneau-Douglas City Museum : This local museum provides a look into the history and culture of the Juneau-Douglas area.
• Macaulay Salmon Hatchery : Here, visitors can learn about Alaska’s important salmon industry and even see thousands of salmon up close.
• Treadwell Mine Historic Trail : This trail offers a glimpse into Juneau’s gold mining history, with interpretive signs and remnants of the old Treadwell Mine along the way.

Looking for some popular tours and activities in Juneau?

• Best Private Whale Watching Tours in Juneau

• Best Juneau Helicopter Tours

• Best Juneau Whale Watching Group Tours

FAQS: Can You Drive to Juneau, Alaska?

Understandably, people have quite a few questions about how to get to the small city of Juneau, Alaska! Here are some common ones and some answers.

Why is Juneau not accessible by car?

Juneau’s unique geographical location is the primary reason it’s not accessible by car. The city is nestled in the Southeast Alaska panhandle, surrounded by water on one side and towering mountains and glaciers on the other. This rugged terrain makes it impossible to build a road that directly connects Juneau to the rest of Alaska or the lower 48 states.

Are there any roads going to Juneau Alaska?

While there are no roads that connect Juneau to the rest of Alaska or the continental United States, the city itself does have a road system. The Juneau road system covers the local area, including the Mendenhall Valley, Auke Bay, and out to Thane and the Kensington Mine. However, these roads end where the city ends.

Are there cars in Juneau Alaska?

Yes, there are cars in Juneau, Alaska. Despite the city’s unique geographical location and lack of connecting roads to other cities, Juneau has a local road system that residents and visitors use for transportation within the city and its surrounding areas.

People use cars for daily commuting, running errands, and exploring the local area.

The local road system covers areas such as Downtown Juneau, the Mendenhall Valley, Auke Bay, Douglas Island, and out to Thane and the Kensington Mine.

Additionally, cars can be brought to Juneau via the Alaska Marine Highway System, which operates ferries that can transport vehicles. There are also car rental services available in Juneau for visitors who need a vehicle during their stay.

Do you need a car when visiting Juneau Alaska?

Whether you need a car when visiting Juneau, Alaska, largely depends on what you plan to do during your visit! If you’re planning to stay mainly in downtown Juneau and visit attractions such as the Alaska State Museum, the State Capitol, or the historic district, you might not need a car.

Downtown Juneau is quite walkable, and many of the main attractions are within a reasonable walking distance of each other.

However, if you want to explore areas outside of downtown, such as the Mendenhall Glacier, having a car can be beneficial. Public transportation in Juneau is limited, and while there are some bus services, they may not align with your schedule or go to all the places you want to visit.

There are also taxi services and tour companies that offer transportation to popular attractions. Some visitors also choose to rent bicycles or scooters to get around.

The Bottom Line: Can You Drive to Juneau Alaska?

So while we’ve determined that you can’t drive to Juneau, Alaska, this unique aspect only adds to the city’s charm and allure!

The journey to Juneau, whether by ferry or plane, is an adventure in itself, offering spectacular scenery in the Alaskan wilderness.

Once there, you’ll find a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, from the bustling downtown to the serene Mendenhall Glacier.

So, don’t let the lack of a road deter you. Embrace the adventure, set sail for the horizon, and discover the unforgettable experience that is Juneau.

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