Juneau, Alaska Cruise Port Guide & Information - Maps, Transportation, Attractions, & More
Juneau, the capital city of Alaska, is one of the most popular ports in the region and is a featured destination on many Inside Passage cruise itineraries. With its waterfront cruise docks, glacier tours, whale watching excursions, outdoor adventure, downtown shopping, and local food and dining, Juneau offers cruise passengers a full day of memorable things to do. This Juneau cruise port guide covers everything you need to know before your ship arrives.
About Juneau
Juneau is the capital city of Alaska, located in the heart of the Inside Passage along the Gastineau Channel. Surrounded by mountains, glaciers, fjords, and rainforest, Juneau blends outdoor adventure with cultural attractions, local shops, and seafood dining. Juneau’s population swells significantly during cruise season as ships from major lines dock here daily, making it one of the busiest cruise destinations in the state.
Download the full PDF Map of Juneau
Where is the Cruise Port Located in Juneau?
The Juneau cruise port is conveniently located in downtown Juneau, giving cruise passengers easy access to shops, restaurants, and tours. Most large cruise lines dock at the South Franklin Street docks or nearby Marine Park docks, where you can step off the ship and immediately begin exploring downtown Juneau. If your ship docks at the AJ Dock slightly south of town, free shuttle service typically runs regularly into the city so you can still explore the center without a long walk.
Getting Around in Juneau
Juneau is a very walkable cruise port destination. The main downtown area, including shops, galleries, waterfront attractions, and tour meeting points, lies within easy walking distance of the cruise docks. If you plan excursions like the Mendenhall Glacier tours or whale watching, you can often book organized shore excursions, take local shuttles, or use taxis and ride‑hailing options. Some travelers also rent cars to explore farther attractions like the glacier or Auke Bay on their own.
Wherever your day in Juneau takes you, comfortable walking shoes and a rain jacket are strongly recommended. Like other ports in Southeast Alaska, Juneau sees frequent frequent rainfall during the summer cruise season.
Mendenhall Glacier Rafting
A highlight for many Alaska cruise passengers is the chance to explore Mendenhall Glacier and its surrounding lakes and rivers. The Mendenhall Glacier rafting and float trip tour is a great way to experience the ice and water of the glacier area. You’ll travel out of the cruise port and into the Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area, where you can float down a stretch of river with views of icy blue walls and rugged alpine scenery, plus the chance to enjoy some of the most exciting whitewater rafting in the region. This glacier adventure offers a unique perspective on Alaska’s massive ice fields and is a favorite for outdoor lovers.
Whale Watching in Juneau
Juneau is often cited as the best port for whale watching on an Alaska cruise itinerary. From the waters near Juneau, humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, and other marine life are commonly spotted during summer months as they feed in the Inside Passage waters. There are numerous whale watching tours offering intimate guided boat excursions that bring you close to these magnificent creatures and give you a chance to enjoy marine wildlife during your Alaska cruise stop. These excursions can be booked through your cruise line or independently - we suggest using Harv & Marv’s Whale Tours.
Mount Roberts Scenic Tram
The Mt. Roberts Tramway (Goldbelt Tram) provides a quick and scenic lift from right near the cruise docks up the mountain for sweeping views of Juneau, Gastineau Channel, and surrounding peaks. Once at the top, there are nature trails, viewing platforms, a restaurant, and opportunities for mountain hiking and wildlife observation. The tram ride itself takes just a few minutes and is a popular choice for families and visitors who want to enjoy panoramic views without a long hike.
Dog Sledding and Helicopter Tour
For an unforgettable Alaska adventure, many cruise passengers opt for a helicopter and dog sledding excursion. These tours depart from the Juneau area and fly you in a helicopter over forests, glaciers, and rugged terrain before landing you on the ice for a dog sled experience. You’ll meet the sled dogs, take part in a short run, and absorb the epic glacier landscape from up close, all in one exciting shore excursion.
Nugget Trail Hike & Wildlife Viewing in the Tongass National Forest
The Nugget Falls Trail near the Mendenhall Glacier is one of the most rewarding hikes in the Juneau area, perfect for travelers who want to explore more of Alaska’s temperate rainforest and glacier‑fed waterfalls. The mostly flat trail winds through the Tongass National Forest and brings you to Nugget Falls, where water pours into Mendenhall Lake. It’s a great way to combine hiking, nature, and wildlife viewing into your cruise port day.
Shopping in Juneau
Juneau’s downtown offers a range of shopping experiences that make excellent souvenirs or gifts. The streets near the cruise port are lined with stores featuring Alaska Native art, handcrafted jewelry, outdoor gear, local artisan works, and specialty boutiques. You’ll also find larger shopping centers like Mendenhall Mall with locally owned shops, specialty stores, and art galleries, giving you plenty of options for cruise ship day shopping.
Food and Dining in Juneau
Juneau’s food scene offers a variety of fresh seafood, local favorites, and international flavors within easy reach of the cruise port. Tracy's King Crab Shack, located near the docks, is a popular stop for king crab legs, crab bisque, and seafood buckets that highlight the region’s Alaskan seafood heritage. The casual atmosphere makes it easy to enjoy a quick meal after a morning of sightseeing or excursions.
For something different, Pel’meni Russian Dumplings serves flavorful dumplings and traditional Russian comfort food that is loved by both locals and visitors. It’s a small, approachable spot that offers a satisfying meal without taking you far from the downtown area. Sandpiper Cafe is a local favorite for breakfast and lunch, offering hearty options in a welcoming setting, making it a great choice to fuel up before heading out to explore the city.
Guests taking the Mt. Roberts Tramway up the mountain can stop at Timberline Bar & Grill, a popular and convenient restaurant with stunning panoramic views of Juneau and the surrounding mountains. From seafood and burgers to refreshing drinks, this spot is perfect for a relaxing break after the tram ride while taking in the scenery.
Things to Do in Juneau
Juneau offers a mix of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences for cruise passengers. Popular excursions include rafting or canoeing near Mendenhall Glacier, hiking the Nugget Falls Trail in the Tongass National Forest, or taking a helicopter and dog sledding tour. The Mt. Roberts Tramway provides panoramic views of the city and mountains, with walking trails and Timberline Bar & Grill at the summit. Whale watching with Harv & Marv gives visitors the chance to see humpback whales, orcas, and sea lions up close.
Cultural options include walking tours from the Juneau-Douglas City Museum, self-guided downtown tours, and First Fridays, when galleries and businesses showcase local art and events. Other popular excursions include the Historic Gold Mine and Panning Tour, the Mendenhall Glacier Trek, and the Rainforest Canopy and Zipline Expedition. Whether you want wildlife, adventure, or local culture, Juneau offers activities for every cruise passenger.
Mendenhall Glacier Trek
The Mendenhall Glacier Trek is a guided excursion that takes you through a temperate rainforest to stand on one of Alaska’s most famous glaciers, offering close-up views of ice formations and the surrounding landscape in a 4-5 hour adventure.
Whale Watching Tour
Board a scenic cruise that brings you close to humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, and bald eagles while learning about Alaska’s marine ecosystem from experienced guides.
Historic Mine Tour & Gold Panning
The Historic Gold Mine and Panning Tour is a 2.5-hour excursion where you explore a former gold mine, learn about Alaska’s Gold Rush history, and try your hand at panning for gold.
Mendenhall Glacier Canoe Adventure
This 4-hour excursion lets you paddle close to the Mendenhall Glacier and icebergs, while guides share insights about the local ecosystem and glacial landscape.
Rainforest Canopy Zipline Expedition
Soar through the treetops of the Tongass National Forest, offering ziplines, suspension bridges, and expert-guided insights into Alaska’s unique flora and fauna.
Conclusion
Juneau, Alaska remains a top cruise port destination in the Inside Passage, with its mix of natural wonders, wildlife excursions, outdoor adventure, downtown shopping, and rich food and dining options. Whether you’re stepping off the ship and walking into town, booking a whale watching tour, hiking to Nugget Falls, or sampling fresh king crab near the waterfront, Juneau offers something for every cruise passenger. With a bit of planning, you can make the most of your Alaska cruise port day and take home memories of glaciers, whales, mountains, and incredible local culture.
