Downtown Juneau

Nestled between towering mountains and the serene Gastineau Channel, Juneau is packed with history, local culture, and unique Alaskan adventures. Whether you're here for the day or simply exploring before or after an excursion, Downtown Juneau offers plenty of experiences, all within walking distance.

Arriving in Downtown Juneau

Most cruise ships dock right in the heart of downtown, making it easy to step off and start exploring. The main docks—AS, CT, and FKL—are right near the central attractions, while the AJ Dock is a short mile away, with a free shuttle that connects passengers to the main downtown area. Once you’re here, everything is easily accessible on foot.

Things to Do in Downtown Juneau

Juneau’s downtown is compact, with a mix of historic sites, local shops, and cultural attractions. Here’s what you won’t want to miss:

• Mount Roberts Tramway: This iconic tramway is located right by the main docks. It offers a scenic ride up 1,800 feet to the Mount Roberts summit, where you’ll find breathtaking views, hiking trails, a raptor center, and a gift shop. It's the perfect way to take in Juneau’s natural beauty right from downtown.
  


• Shopping and Art Galleries: Stroll through the quaint streets lined with local shops and galleries. Juneau is known for its unique Native Alaskan art and handmade crafts, which make wonderful, authentic souvenirs.
  


• Alaska State Capitol: This unassuming building might not look like a typical state capitol, but it’s steeped in history. You can take a free tour to learn about Alaska’s journey to statehood, Native heritage, and local governance.
  


• Alaska State Museum: Located just a short walk from the docks, this museum provides an immersive look into Alaska’s history, from Native culture and early Russian influence to wildlife exhibits. It’s a fantastic stop for families and history buffs alike.
  


• The Whale Project: This life-sized bronze sculpture of a humpback whale breaching from the water is an impressive sight and a favorite photo spot for visitors.
  

Where to Eat

Food in Juneau is fresh, local, and delicious, especially if you’re a seafood lover. Here are a few downtown favorites:

• Tracy’s King Crab Shack: Known for its decadent, buttery crab legs, this spot is a must-visit for seafood fans. Grab a seat and enjoy the bustling harbor views as you feast.
  


• Deckhand Dave’s Fish Tacos: Located in a small food truck lot, Deckhand Dave’s serves up some of the best fish tacos in town. With fresh, flavorful ingredients, it’s a local favorite.
  


• Red Dog Saloon: Step back in time at this historic, rowdy saloon featuring live music, local brews, and a quirky Alaskan atmosphere. It’s a great place to grab a drink and soak in the character of old Juneau.
  


• Hangar on the Wharf:A great place to grab a meal, enjoy the harbor views, and watch the seaplanes take off.
  

Exploring Downtown on Your Own

Prefer to wander without a schedule? Downtown Juneau has lots to offer for the independent traveler:

• Whale Project Statue: As you stroll along the waterfront, don’t miss the iconic life-sized whale sculpture. It’s a fantastic spot for photos and a reminder of the abundant marine life just off Juneau’s shores.
  


• Historic Walking Tour: Pick up a map at the visitor center and explore Juneau’s history on foot. You’ll discover old saloons, historic government buildings, and charming early 20th-century architecture along the way.
  


• Waterfront Parks and Walking Trails: The downtown area includes several scenic spots along the water. Stop by Marine Park to watch floatplanes take off, or head to the Seawalk for a relaxing walk with beautiful channel views.
  

Interesting Facts about Juneau

It’s not exactly easy for local residents to get in and out of the city, so the cultural scene has thrived locally. The Downtown area is rich with Native Tlingit art, world-class museums, restaurants, and a vibrant theatre community.

Called a “foodie’s paradise” by the Washington Times and ranked the “Best Small Town in America” by Today in 2017, Juneau’s walkable downtown offers a unique glimpse into the city’s past.

• Juneau was originally called Dzántik'i Héeni, or "Base of the Flounder's River” in Tlingit
  


• The First Friday Art Walk takes place monthly in Downtown, featuring local and Native artists.
  


• Celebration—a gathering of Native tribes—is a major annual event showcasing local culture.
  


• To visit Downtown Juneau, you’ll need to go by plane, cruise ship, or take a three-day ferry.
  


• Approximately 6,000 people a day visit Juneau by cruise ship between May-September.
  


• There are more than 250 miles of trail systems surrounding Juneau for visitors to explore.
  


• Juneau is the only U.S. capital that’s not connected to the rest of its state or North America by road!
  

Final Thoughts

Downtown Juneau blends Alaskan history, culture, and natural beauty into an unforgettable experience. With everything from iconic seafood to unique local art and a bit of adventure thrown in, Juneau’s downtown is sure to capture the heart of every visitor. Enjoy your time in Alaska’s vibrant capital!