Home » Alaska » One Day Making the Most of Our Juneau Cruise Adventure
a lush forested landscape viewed through a frame of overhanging tree branches. The foreground is dominated by dark, textured branches covered with moss, creating a natural archway. Beyond the branches, there is a dense forest composed of a variety of coniferous trees, ranging in colors from deep green to a vibrant yellow-green due to sunlight. The background reveals a mountainside, characterized by a steep slope with rocky outcrops and a mixture of tree cover. A narrow, bright green streak runs vertically down the mountain, suggesting either a path or a stream. The overall scene conveys a sense of depth and richness in natural foliage.
Two people standing in front of a welcome sign for Juneau, Alaska
Welcome to Juneau Alaska Sign

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Modern visitor center with an iridescent slanted roof and large glass windows in Juneau, Alaska.
Juneau Information Center on the waterfront

Juneau Shore Excursion Tips: Book Excursions Early

Witch’s hair lichen on rainforest spruce boughs and rock in a lush forest in Juneau, Alaska.
Witch’s hair lichen on rainforest spruce boughs

Today we have two morning excursions planned: Mendenhall Glacier Trek and tickets to ride the Goldbelt Tramway at our leisure. The iconic Mount Roberts Tram is one of the major attractions in Juneau. Reading reviews, I learned when multiple cruise ships are in the harbor, the return trip down the mountain can be over an hour or more wait in line. I read horror stories of those left standing in line missing their ship’s departure. Today, with many cruise ships in the harbor, I have a plan.

Person hiking on Alpine Loop Trail  with wooden steps in a lush, green forest at the top of the Goldbelt Tramway
Hiking the Alpine Loop Trail

We will take the first tramway ride up at 8 am. This way, we while still making our 10:15 Mendenhall Glacier Trek tour. The tramway terminal is only a short few meters from the dock. Luckily, we got in line before the tramway depot doors opened. I laugh at the sign on the entrance door stating-No dogs, skis, snowboards, firearms, and bears are allowed on the tram.

Mount Roberts: Where to Catch a Spectacular Bird’s-Eye View

First in line, we make the quick trip up to the top-an elevation of 1,800 feet. It only takes only 6-minutes. Ascending to the top of Mount Roberts, we had incredibly panoramic views of the Gastineau Channel. The tram car moves effortlessly through the surrounding misty rainforest-video. At the top, our first stop was the Mountain House (Shaa Hit). There is an 18-minute film “Seeing Daylight”, in the Chilkat Theater based on the Tinglit culture, but we skipped this.

Interesting Fact: There are two tram cars, one is “Yeil” representing the Raven, the other is “Chaak” the Eagle.

Aerial view of a harbor with cruise ships in the Gastineau channel in Juneau, surrounded by green forests and mountains, with tram cables in the foreground.

Instead, we headed outside first to the Juneau Raptor Center, which is permanently closed at this time, its Bald Eagle ambassador no longer in residence. Instead, we made our way to the Tr’Ale House. What used to be the nature center has been converted into a beer garden. However, you can still get trail updates and information.

“The light in Alaska, in particular, is so beautiful. So beautiful! Such incredible light.” – Sebastião Salgado.

With limited time, we hiked up the Alpine Loop trail to Father Brown’s Cross. With the cooler spring, there was plenty of snow still lying in ridge pockets, so I was glad we had our hiking boots. This is a true rainforest part of the Tongass National Forest with its many gnarled spruce trunks. Branches covered in lichens. One tree you cannot miss is the caretaker by Tlingit carver, Rick Beasley. It is carved into the trunk of a live Sitka spruce. Yeil, The Raven, is another carving you will see as you continue down the trail.

Totem Carved tree "The Caretaker" on the Alpine Loop trail. Tree with a totem carving in a sunlit forest setting.
Totem Carved tree “The Caretaker” on the Alpine Loop trail

Explore the Alpine Loop Trail to Father Brown’s Cross on Mount Roberts

Father Brown’s cross overlooks the port with great views of Douglas Island and the Gastineau Channel. It commemorates the Jesuit priest for building the trail in 1908. Set in alpine meadow, I could imagine in the following weeks spring flowers emerging in the meadow.

Nature Center Mountain House Goldbelt Tramway-Wooden cabin with large windows, green roof, and a totem pole, surrounded by tall evergreen trees.
Nature Center Mount Roberts
Green Skunk Cabbage plant top of Mt. Roberts in Juneau Alaska

The trail is steep, so remember to bring plenty of water and a snack as it is all uphill. There are plenty of tree roots to hop over as well. Running out of time, we simply could not complete the 3-mile Alpine Loop trail. Leaving the snow-covered ridge, we made our way back to the mountain house. I would like to come back and climb to the top of the mountain and take the Mt. Roberts Trail back down the mountain to Basin Road.

A snowy slope with vegetation beneath a partly cloudy sky on Mount Roberts in Juneau, Alaska.
Snow-covered slopes of Mount Roberts

The Goldbelt Tram Gift Store has a nice selection of authentic items to purchase. I prefer to purchase items made in Alaska and always look for the symbol before I buy an item. For a quick bit, the Timberline Bar & Grill is available. We felt it was a little expensive. The Mount Roberts Tramway is a must-do for any visitor to Juneau.

Two people in outdoor clothing stand by the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center sign with mountains in the background.

Juneau Shore Excursion Tip: Trekking Mendenhall Glacier and Exploring Juneau Town

We booked this excursion through Holland America prior to our leaving Anchorage. We met our shore excursion guide on the waterfront beside the Information Center. Each driver for the bus tours provides a running commentary. Sometimes the storylines are funny. This was by far the largest crowd we had to deal with today.

PRO Tip: If you want to avoid the tour bus crowd, consider taking a taxi, Uber, or local bus (Capital Transit) to Mendenhall. However, most drop you outside the park. It is a 1.5-mile walk to the visitor center.

Two people in front of the observation deck at Mendenhall Glacier-Glacier and nugget Falls in the background
Nugget Falls

Our guide for the day gave us a fact filled tour. “Sitaantaagu” the original Tinglit name for Mendenhall glacier means, “The Glacier Behind the Town.” A receding glacier it is rapidly melting about 150 feet each year. Located 13-miles north of town, it is easily accessible by the road system. Once we arrived at the park, we had a few hours on our own to explore.

Nugget Falls cascading down a rocky hillside with greenery.
Cascading Nugget Falls

A Must-See Stop: Venture to Nugget Falls

On this tour, we could only do a few of the trails. We chose first to do the relatively easy trail to the iconic Nugget Falls. A mostly paved walk, its 2 -miles out-and-back winding its way through the lush Tongass National Forest before opening up to reveal the thundering, glacier-fed cascade of Nugget Falls. We could hear it long before we actually saw it.

View of a forested area with branches in the foreground and kayakers on water in the background.

Standing at the base of the falls, its sheer size struck me. I could reach out and touch the waterfall. Lingering for a few minutes, we walked the shoreline of Lake Mendenhall, taking in the breathtaking views of the glacier. The light seemed to be an ever-changing array of colors in the glacier’s crevasses. Continuing our shoreline exploring off-the-beaten-path, the only disruption was the constant barge of helicopters making for the top of the glacier.

Porcupine in a Cottonwood tree. Porcupine on a tree branch with visible quills.
Porcupine along the trail

Undeterred, we watched as kayakers made their way along the shoreline. This is an excursion I would do if we returned to Juneau. Making our way back to the observation platform, I had an unforgettable encounter finding a porcupine high in a poplar tree. Bring a good pair of binoculars to get the best views of the glacier and the wildlife.

Two people kayaking on Mendenhall Lake with a forested background.
Kayakers on Mendenhall Lake

Juneau Cruise Adventure: Visit the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center

The Visitor Center is the perfect ending for our adventure. The draw here is the panoramic views from the front the front window of the glacier. A collection of interactive exhibits on the glacier, its history, and its importance to the local ecosystem. The exhibit hall is small but captured our interest. There is also a 15-minute film “Landscape of Change” that shows the glacier’s retreat over time.

a scenic landscape of Mendenhall Lake and Mendenhall Glacier. In the foreground, there is a serene body of water reflecting the surroundings. Sparse vegetation and small, dark silhouettes of trees are seen along the water's edge. Midway through the image, the vast Mendenhall Glacier stretches across the scene, displaying a striking blue and white icy texture. Snow-covered mountains rise in the background under a partly cloudy sky, creating a stark contrast with the dark rocky slopes flanking the glacier.
Mendenhall Glacier Truly Spectacular

One Day in Juneau Cruise Itinerary: Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure

Open daily 9 am-6 pm, they provide guided tours during the summer months-May thru October. Glacier Gardens is part of the Tongass National Forest rainforest.. Originally purchased by Steve Bowhay as a landscape business, the botanical gardens currently cover 50 acres. Our driver explained that the rushing river runs down from the melt snows on Thunder mountain. While creating ponds and waterfalls to tame the flow of the river, the owner flipped a large uprooted tree. Thus the creation of the upside-down flower tower.

A variety of colorful flowers are planted around the base of a large tree trunk. The trunk is weathered, with a mix of gray and brown tones. Around it, pink and magenta flowers are in full bloom, adding vibrant contrast to the earthy tones of the bark. Green foliage fills the spaces between the flowers, enhancing the overall lush appearance. The scene is framed by a background of dense green leaves and some taller flowering plants.
A tree stump in the middle of a pond supports a lush arrangement of green plants and purple flowers, surrounded by tall evergreen trees at Glacial gardens.
Credit G Heath

Being so early in the season, there were few blooms. However, the perennials were if full bloom. The open cart ride up the steep slope of Thunder Mountain gave us good views of Juneau. The views from Mount Roberts are so much better. If you like flowers, this tour is a good addition, otherwise you can skip it.

a vibrant underwater scene at the DIPAC Macaulay Salmon Hatchery. In the foreground, there is a pink starfish resting on a rock alongside various marine creatures and vegetation. To the left, there is a cluster of translucent pink bubble-like coral. An orange sea cucumber is positioned between the coral and starfish. In the background, several greenish-brown seaweeds extend upward, adding depth to the scene. The water is dark, highlighting the vivid colors of the marine life.

One Day in Juneau Cruise Itinerary: DIPAC Macaulay Salmon Hatchery

Our tour guide briefly stopped by the hatchery. The driver recommended taking a look from the outside, claiming it was worth the visit. Alaska is the salmon capital of the world, so why not? The fish ladder this early in the season was devoid of any salmon. Stepping through the doors, we were met with an array of informative displays on the life cycle of salmon. We’ve previously toured the Solomon Gulch Fish Hatchery in Valdez, Alaska. However, I was struck by the sheer scale of the operation at Macaulay. Wandering the facility, we saw the hatchery’s process of collecting eggs, carefully nurturing the young fry, and eventually releasing them into the rivers and streams to continue their life cycle. Additionally, they have a touch tank with a variety of species. By far my favorite thing to do.

Hiking Boardwalk Mendenhall Glacier-Nugget Falls Trail-Wooden walkway leading to a forest with lush greenery and tall trees.
Hiking in the Tongass National Forest

One of the Best Things to Do in Juneau: Whale Watching Voyage

Juneau is one of the best places in the world for whale watching. Humpback whales frequent the waters around Juneau as they make their way north. The whale watch cruises depart from small boat harbor, Auke Bay. It is a picturesque waterway, surrounded by the rugged Alaskan wilderness. I suggest dressing warmly in layers and wear waterproof boots with wool socks, as it is cold in May. Stephens Passage is a renowned whale watching, and they said they saw quite a few humpback whales.

Humpback Whales Bubble-net feeding. Humpback whales surfacing near two boats in the ocean with a forested shoreline in the background.
Humpback Whales Bubble-net feeding Credit: J Long

I was hoping we might also spot orcas as we cruised, however not today. Alas, I will look during our time on the inside passage. In Glacier Bay National Park, we saw plenty of sea otters, sea lions, and bald eagles.

Tahku, the Alaska Whale Sculpture, is a life-scale bronze sculpture of a humpback breaching
Tahku, the Alaska Whale Sculpture, is a life-scale bronze sculpture of a humpback breaching

Juneau Cruise Day Trip Guide: Stroll Juneau’s Historic Downtown

On our way back to town, our bus driver gave us the option of being dropped downtown or returning to the cruise terminal. Still full of energy, I wanted to wind down taking a leisurely stroll on my own. Taking a self-guided walking tour, I made my first venture out to the Whale Project. The distance between the Whale Project Park and Juneau’s downtown is around 1/4 mile. Tahku, which translates to “fierce winds” in Tlingit, is the name given to the sculptured humpback whale. The life-sized breaching whale sits within a fountain with Douglas Island as a backdrop. It’s well worth the short walk if you’re on a cruise ship to witness this incredible work of art.

Exterior of the Alaska State Museum with modern glass and wood design, featuring a teal abstract sculpture.
Alaska State Museum

Uncover Alaskan Heritage at Museums in Juneau

My next destination was the Alaska State Museum. The museums and government buildings are within walking distance of the cruise terminal. Most of the historic downtown is on the National Register of Historic Places. This museum is a great place to learn about the local indigenous culture and Russian influence on Alaska’s route to statehood. There is a minimal charge to enter and they have a senior/military discount. What I liked best was the great exhibits showcasing the natural resources, including the wildlife of the area. To get the most of the exhibits, you need to read the informational placards.You can easily spend an hour or two. There is so much to see.

Traditional Inuit-style parka with hood on display at a museum.
Seal Skin Coat

If you don’t have the time to see the exhibits at the Alaska State Museum, then a quick trip to the SeaAlaska center may be a better fit. Here for just $7. The SeaAlaska Heritage Institute dedicates itself to the indigenous cultures in and around Juneau. Inside is small, but the replica Tsimshian clan house is pretty cool. The outside artwork by Haida artist Robert Davidson is simply stunning.

Front view of the SeaAlaska Heritage Center with indigenous artwork and a totem pole.
View of the SeaAlaska Heritage Center Building Artwork

See, the Juneau-Douglas City Museum where I got a captivating glimpse into the rich history and cultural heritage of Alaska’s capital city. Housed in a quaint yellow building, this unassuming museum transports you back through the centuries to explore Juneau’s past. However, the museum’s true jewel may be the building itself, the site of the historic July 4th, 1959 Statehood Ceremony, when Alaska officially joined the United States.

Juneau-Douglas City Museum with mountainous backdrop and flags flying.
Juneau-Douglas City Museum Building

Climbing to the Governor’s House: A Juneau Landmark

Taking a set of very steep stairs, I climbed up to Calhoun Avenue to see find the Alaska Governor’s Mansion. I was huffing and puffing by the time I was bound and determined to reach the top. Apparently, there are 156 steps to reach the top. This 14,400-square-foot colonial official residence of the Governor of Alaska, the First Lady of Alaska, and their families. The mansion has been home to all Alaska governors since it was built in 1912, except for the first territorial governor.

The side entrance of the Governor's House in Juneau, featuring white columns, dark green shutters, and a totem pole.
Governor’s House Side entrance way Juneau

A Must Do Visit the Alaska State Capitol- City’s Highlights

You can’t visit the capital city without seeing the Alaska State Capitol building. This impressive structure serves as the seat of Alaska’s government, housing the offices of the Governor and Lieutenant Governor, as well as the chambers of the Alaska Legislature. An architectural marvel built in 1931 to me it seemed to be a very art déco. They offer guided tours beginning June 3rd of their impressive contemporary Alaskan artwork collection. They also offer an audio self-guided tour that is 30-minutes long. Sadly, my ship arrived on May 31 so I could not tour the building today.

Bronze statue of William Henry Seward in front of the Dimond Courthouse.
Secretary William Henry Seward statue-Dimond Courthouse in the background

In front of the Alaska state capital stands a controversial statue honoring William Henry Seward, the U.S. Secretary of State, who negotiated the Alaska Purchase from Russia in 1867. The bronze statue depicts Seward holding the purchase treaty in one hand and his hat in the other. The statue was commissioned to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Alaska Purchase, but the controversy lies in the fact that Alaskan indigenous peoples were never invited to participate in the negotiations, despite their understanding of property ownership.

Windfall fisherman statue Juneau-A bronze statue of a bear resting on a rock, surrounded by greenery and modern architecture.
Windfall Fisherman Statue

Just outside the Dimond courthouse on Main street you will find a life-sized bronze Alaskan brown bear created by R. T. Wallens in 1984. Commissioned by the city of Juneau to commemorate the 25th Anniversary of Alaska Statehood (1959-1984). The plaque reads, “Summer is the bountiful time of easy living for bears in Alaska and they have arranged their lives accordingly stuffing themselves on salmon, greens and berries while the season affords, and then retiring to sleep away the winter in fat comfort.”

A black raven perched on a wooden structure with cloudy sky and bushes in the background.

Juneau Cruise Day Trip Guide: Look through the Waterfront Stores

This cruise dock area is full of quaint shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes. You can pick up some unique souvenirs, watch street performers, or just enjoy the lively atmosphere. The downtown area was bustling with activity. I stopped near an area with food trucks in Marine Park Plaza. I could not help but laugh at the ravens stealing a fish carcass from a nearby garbage can. These mischievous birds are quite large, each seemed to have a personality all its own.

the exterior of the Red Dog Saloon, a building with a rustic and historical appearance. The facade is covered with wooden logs, and a pair of classic saloon-style swinging doors serves as the entrance. Above the entrance, a large sign displays the name "Red Dog Saloon," featuring a red dog silhouette. The upper part of the building is painted red and adorned with several rectangular windows. There is another sign with the saloon's name and logo above the windows. Bright green trim accents the meeting points of the red and white paint. Small signs and notices are visible on either side of the entrance, giving it an authentic, old-western saloon look.
Red Dog Saloon-Home of the “Duck Fart”

With the eminent departing of the ship, I barely had time to have a drink before the gangway closed. Juneau boasts a thriving brewery scene, so made t a quick stop at the Red Dog Saloon, one of Juneau’s oldest and most famous bars. With its classic Wild West atmosphere, and sawdust covered floors-grab your Duck Fart Shot before you leave Juneau.

Underground mine tunnel with rugged rock walls, a central pathway, tracks, and overhead lighting.
Underground Peterson Gold Mine Credit: B Sims

Find Your Perfect Tour: Juneau Shore Excursion Tips and Options

Keep in mind that our schedule for today in Juneau only scratches the surface of what this incredible city has to offer. If you find yourself in the opportunity to visit, think about prolonging your stay to discover even more of Alaska’s capital.

  • Treadwell Mine Ruins Tour: The Treadwell mine complex, formerly the biggest gold mine globally, generated millions of ounces of gold in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Today, you can hike to see the deteriorating foundations and corroding equipment that was left behind.
  • Helicopter & Dogsled Glacier Excursion: I heard this was an amazing tour worth every penny. Standing on an enormous glacier, riding a dog sled and petting puppies!
  • Mendenhall Lake Kayaking Adventure: Get up close to the glacier and Nugget Falls. Check out icebergs.
  • Juneau Underground Peterson Gold Mine and Panning Experience: exploring a former underground gold mine and panning for your own gold nuggets.
Close-up of a large cut log displaying rings and cracks, with other logs in the background.

Discover Culinary Delights in Juneau’s Local Restaurants

If you are cruising Holland America, you can choose the Juneau Culinary Walk excursion. This is by far the best way to sample the local cuisine. This tour even includes a stopover at the famous Tracy’s King Crab Shack. Although most renown for their remarkable King crab legs on this tour, you get to sample the award-winning crab bisque. The other tasty stops include Taku Smokeries, the Taste Alaska headquarters, Harbor Spice and Tea, and the Crystal Saloon.

Colorful buildings along a Juneau boardwalk featuring Tracy's King Crab Shack.
Tracey’s Crab Shack on the Juneau Waterfront

Final Thoughts: One Day Making the Most of Our Juneau Cruise Adventure

Our day in the charming city of Juneau was an unforgettable experience. The people were friendly, and the modern feel offered something for everyone, in contrast to the frontier town of Skagway. We highly recommend visiting this truly special place if you’re ever in Alaska. By sharing our travels, we hope to help you plan an itinerary that lets you make the most of your day trip and capture lasting memories in this Alaskan paradise. Safe travels and enjoy your time in Juneau!

Have you cruised to Alaska? Did you your cruise include a stopover in Juneau? What did you think? Share your experience with us writing in the comments below.