The Top Tours in Juneau

When it comes to choosing the perfect shore excursions to book in Juneau, Alaska, we know it can be hard! We have a large variety of options, and they're all so much fun! To help narrow down the options, here's an overview of the top 5 tours in Juneau:

Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour

Tour Type: Small Group, Glacier Hiking Adventure
Points of Interest: Mendenhall Glacier, Mendenhall Icefalls, Glacial Crevasses, Tongass National Forest
Best for: Active and Adventure Seekers, Experienced Travelers, Scenic and Photography Focused Travelers 

This hands-on glacier adventure takes you onto the ice itself for an unforgettable up-close experience. After traveling to the Mendenhall Glacier area, you’ll gear up and follow a knowledgeable guide across glacial terrain, navigating ice formations, crevasses, and meltwater features. Along the way, you’ll learn about glacier movement, ice formation, and the ever-changing landscape beneath your feet. It’s an exciting and immersive way to experience one of Juneau’s most iconic natural wonders.

Juneau Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier Tour

Tour Type: Wildlife & Glacier Tour
Points of Interest: Auke Bay, Whale Feeding Grounds, Mendenhall Glacier
Best for: First-Time Alaska Visitors, Wildlife Enthusiasts, Families and Multi-Generational Groups, Scenic and Photography Focused Travelers

This popular combo tour allows you to experience two of Juneau’s must-see highlights in one seamless outing. You’ll head out onto the water in search of humpback whales, with the possibility of sea lions, seals, and bald eagles, while your captain shares insight into local marine life. After whale watching, you’ll travel to the Mendenhall Glacier visitor center to take in views of the glacier. It’s an excellent choice for travelers with limited time who want a well-rounded Juneau experience.

Juneau Glacier Dog Sledding & Helicopter Tour

Tour Type: Small Group, Helicopter Tour, Dog Sledding Experience
Points of Interest: Juneau Icefield, Glacier Dog Sled Camp, Crevasses & Icefields, Coastal Mountain Views
Best for: First-Time Alaska Visitors, Families and Multi-Generational Groups, Bucket-List Seekers, Scenic and Photography Focused Travelers

This iconic Alaska experience combines an unforgettable helicopter flight with authentic glacier dog sledding. You’ll soar over the Juneau Icefield before landing at a remote dog sled camp on the glacier, where you’ll meet the dogs, learn about mushing, and enjoy a thrilling sled ride across the ice. The Extended Dogsledding option is especially popular, as it allows more time on the sled and additional interaction with the dogs—perfect for guests who want to fully soak in this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Juneau Mendenhall Glacier Express Bus

Tour Type: Shuttle Transportation, Scenic Transfer
Points of Interest: Mendenhall Glacier, Nugget Falls, Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Area
Best for: Independent Travelers, Budget-Conscious Guests, Easy-Paced and Limited-Mobility Travelers

This express bus option provides convenient transportation to and from the Mendenhall Glacier visitor center, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Once there, you can walk the trails, visit Nugget Falls, or simply enjoy the views of the glacier before returning on a later shuttle. It’s a great choice for travelers who prefer flexibility and want a straightforward way to visit one of Juneau’s top attractions.

Juneau Icefield Helicopter Tour

Tour Type: Small Group, Helicopter Flightseeing Tour
Points of Interest: Juneau Icefield, Glacial Crevasses, Icefalls, Coastal Mountain Peaks
Best for: Scenic and Photography Focused Travelers, First-Time Alaska Visitors, Comfort-First Travelers, Limited-Time Visitors

This flightseeing tour offers a breathtaking aerial perspective of the vast Juneau Icefield. You’ll fly over glaciers, crevasses, and dramatic ice formations while enjoying narration from your experienced pilot. With panoramic views in every direction, this tour is ideal for guests who want to experience Alaska’s icy wilderness without strenuous activity—and capture incredible photos along the way.

Taku Glacier Lodge Flight & Feast

Tour Type: Flightseeing, Food Tour
Points of Interest: Taku Glacier, Taku Lodge, Tongass National Forest, Historic Frontier Lodge
Best for: Food Lovers, Scenic and Photography Focused Travelers, Couples and Small Groups, History Enthusiasts

This unique experience pairs scenic flightseeing with a warm, welcoming meal at a historic Alaskan lodge. After flying over glaciers, rivers, and forested valleys, you’ll land near the impressive Taku Glacier and enjoy a hearty meal at the Taku Glacier Lodge. Surrounded by wilderness and rich history, this tour offers a relaxed and memorable way to experience Alaska’s remote beauty.

Juneau Musher’s Camp & Sled Dog Discovery

Tour Type: Dog Sledding, Educational Experience
Points of Interest: Sled Dog Camp, Tongass National Forest, Training Trails, Sled Dog Kennels
Best for: Families and Multi-Generational Groups, First-Time Alaska Visitors, Easy-Paced Travelers, Great for Kids

This family-friendly excursion offers a fun and interactive introduction to Alaska’s sled dog culture. You’ll visit a working musher’s camp where you can meet the dogs, learn about their training, and enjoy a short ride through the forest on a wheeled sled. With engaging guides and plenty of opportunities for photos and puppy snuggles, this tour is a favorite for guests of all ages.

Juneau Best Excursions FAQ

How far is Mendenhall Glacier from downtown Juneau?

Mendenhall Glacier is about 12 miles from downtown Juneau, roughly a 20–30 minute drive depending on traffic. Most visitors reach it via guided tours, shuttle buses, or private transportation.

Can I do more than one excursion in a day?

In many cases, yes — especially if your ship is in port for a longer day. Just be sure to leave enough buffer time between tours and factor in transportation. Combo tours are a great way to maximize your time without feeling rushed.

How far in advance should I book Juneau excursions?

Juneau’s most popular tours, especially helicopter and dog sledding experiences, often sell out well in advance. Booking early gives you the best selection of times and options, especially during peak summer months.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Juneau weather can change quickly, but tours operate rain or shine. Many experiences — like whale watching and glacier viewing — are just as magical (sometimes more so!) in misty conditions. Helicopter tours are weather-dependent and prioritize safety; if weather prevents flying, alternatives or refunds are typically offered.

Is it worth visiting Mendenhall Glacier if I’m not hiking on it?

Absolutely. The Mendenhall Glacier area offers beautiful viewpoints, scenic walking trails, and Nugget Falls — all without stepping onto the ice. The Express Bus or guided glacier tours allow plenty of time to take photos, explore, and simply enjoy the scenery at your own pace.

Will I actually see whales on a whale watching tour?

Juneau is one of the best places in Alaska to see humpback whales, especially during the summer months, and offers guaranteed whale sightings for their tours. Many captains work closely together in the area to confirm where whale sightings are on any given day.

What should I wear in Juneau?

Layers are key. Weather can change quickly, so dress in warm, breathable layers with a waterproof jacket. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for most activities, even easy sightseeing.

Where do Juneau tours meet?

Most Juneau tours meet at or near the Mount Roberts Tramway Building, which is centrally located in downtown Juneau and easy to find. This area is a common gathering point for excursions because it’s close to shops, restaurants, and many tour departures. If your tour includes transportation, your meeting instructions will clearly explain where to go and what to look for, so there’s no guesswork on the day of your excursion.

What if my ship docks at the AJ Dock?

If your cruise ship arrives at the AJ Dock, you’ll need to take a shuttle into downtown Juneau to reach the Mount Roberts Tramway Building and most tour meeting locations. The shuttle ride typically takes about 15 minutes, and shuttles run frequently throughout the day. We recommend allowing extra time to account for shuttle lines and travel, especially during busy port days. To keep things stress-free, plan to allow yourself at least 1 hour between when your cruise ship arrives and the start of your given tour. That cushion gives you time to grab your bearings, check in, and start your day relaxed and ready to explore.