Stepping off your cruise ship in Juneau puts you right in the intersection of where history, culture, and wild beauty all meet. And the best part is, you don’t have to spend a dime to experience some of the city’s most memorable spots, you just need to know where to look.
Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just looking to soak up the local vibe, there’s something for everyone in and around downtown Juneau. Here’s a detailed guide to free (and almost free) things to do during your cruise stop in Juneau.
Watch Floatplanes Take Off and Land
Juneau’s waterfront is also a hub for floatplanes heading to remote communities and sightseeing flights. Watching them take off and land in the Gastineau Channel is an experience all on its own. It’s mesmerizing to see these planes skim the water, a unique feature of life in Southeast Alaska.
Local Tip: Head near the Seadrome Dock for the best vantage point.
Explore Sandy Beach and the Treadwell Mine Historic Trail
Just across Gastineau Channel on Douglas Island, Sandy Beach offers a peaceful waterfront spot with great views back toward downtown Juneau. While it’s about 3-4 miles from the cruise docks, it’s worth the short trip to explore the nearby Treadwell Mine Historic Trail. This self-guided walk takes you through the remains of one of the world’s largest gold mines, with interpretive signs explaining the history of the site.
Local Tip: Low tide expands the beach, offering more space to wander and better opportunities to spot tidal critters.
Walk to the Whale Statue at Overstreet Park
One of Juneau’s most iconic photo spots, the life-sized bronze humpback whale sculpture known as Takhu, is located at Overstreet Park about 1.5 miles from the cruise docks. The park itself offers a peaceful place to sit, watch the water, and take in the mountain views.
Local Tip: Visit in the morning for fewer crowds and better lighting for photos.
Hike to the Mount Roberts Tramway Upper Station
Most visitors take the tram up Mount Roberts, but you can hike up for free and enjoy the same stunning views. The trailhead is just a short walk from downtown and climbs through lush forest to the tram’s upper station at 1,800 feet. The round trip takes around 2.5 to 3 hours.
Local Tip: Start early to avoid tramway crowds, and bring a light jacket because it’s usually cooler at the top.
Hike Perseverance Trail
Step into Juneau’s mining past on the Perseverance Trail. This moderately challenging trail follows an old mining road through the mountains, with views of waterfalls, wildflowers, and historic relics along the way. The trail can be hiked as a full out-and-back adventure, or you can just hike to the basin overlook for a shorter option that still delivers great scenery.
Local Tip: Parts of the trail can get muddy after rain, so waterproof shoes are recommended.
Walk the Waterfront and Read the Interpretive Signs
Strolling along Juneau’s waterfront is both scenic and educational. Interpretive signs along the way tell the story of the city’s history, from Indigenous roots to the gold rush and beyond.
Local Tip: Sunset is a beautiful time for this walk, with golden light hitting the mountains across the channel.
Walk the Flume Trail
This charming boardwalk trail hugs the hillside above Gold Creek, offering a flat, easy walk just minutes from downtown. Originally built to carry water to the city, the flume now serves as a peaceful walking trail with views of the creek and surrounding forest.
Local Tip: This is a perfect quick nature break if you’re short on time, since it’s so close to the docks.
Tour the Alaska State Capitol
Learn about Alaska’s political history with a free tour of the State Capitol building, located right in downtown Juneau. Tours provide a behind-the-scenes look at Alaska’s legislative process, unique architectural features, and the state’s journey to becoming the 49th state.
Local Tip: Tours are usually available weekdays when the legislature is not in session, but even a self-guided walk around the exterior offers great historical plaques and photo ops.
Visit the Juneau-Douglas City Museum
The Juneau-Douglas City Museum offers free admission in the winter and affordable entry during the summer. The museum features exhibits on Juneau’s history, art, and culture. They also offer reasonably priced historic walking tours through downtown, which combine storytelling with little-known historical details you won’t find online.
Local Tip: Don’t skip the museum’s small gift shop, it’s a great place to find locally made art and souvenirs.
Take a Brewery Tour at Alaskan Brewing Company (21+)
For beer lovers, the Alaskan Brewing Company offers a chance to taste some of Alaska’s most famous craft brews while learning about the state’s brewing history. While the main taproom is located outside of downtown, their seasonal summer shuttle makes it easy to reach. The tour gives insight into the brewing process and includes samples of their award-winning beers.
Local Tip: The smoked porter and amber ale are fan favorites, but seasonal releases offer a unique taste of Alaska’s changing seasons.
Sample Local Seafood at Taku Smokeries
Pop into Taku Smokeries near the docks for a taste of Alaska’s famous smoked salmon. Free samples are often available, giving you a delicious introduction to local flavors. While you’re there, you can also watch workers prepare fresh seafood through the viewing windows.
Local Tip: Midday visits tend to offer the best selection of samples.
Visit the Empty Chair Memorial
This small but powerful memorial honors Japanese Americans from Juneau who were forcibly removed and interned during World War II. Located in Capital School Park, it’s a quiet place for reflection and learning about this sobering chapter in American history.
Local Tip: Combine this stop with a walk to the Governor’s Mansion, just up the hill.
Visit the Alaska Commercial Fishermen’s Memorial
Along the docks, this memorial honors the fishermen who lost their lives at sea. It’s a beautiful tribute to the people who have helped shape Juneau’s maritime culture. The names engraved on the memorial tell stories of generations who braved Alaska’s unpredictable waters.
Local Tip: If you visit in May, you might witness the annual Blessing of the Fleet, a heartfelt community event.
Meet Patsy Ann, Juneau’s Famous Dog
Patsy Ann was a deaf bull terrier who became famous in the 1930s for her uncanny ability to predict arriving ships. Today, her bronze statue stands at the waterfront, welcoming visitors just as she did decades ago. She’s a local legend and a symbol of the city’s maritime spirit.
Local Tip: Rubbing her nose is said to bring good luck.
View Bears and Salmon on Steep Creek Trail
For an unforgettable wildlife experience, head to the Steep Creek Trail near the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center. This short, accessible boardwalk trail offers prime bear-viewing opportunities, especially in late summer when salmon fill the creek. Interpretive signs along the way provide insights into the local ecosystem.
Local Tip: Visit early in the morning for the best chances of seeing bears. Always maintain a safe distance and follow posted guidelines.
Walk to the Governor’s Mansion
A short uphill walk leads to Alaska’s Governor’s Mansion, a stately white building with panoramic views over downtown. While the interior isn’t usually open to the public, the beautifully maintained exterior and gardens are worth the visit.
Local Tip: Visit in December to see the mansion beautifully lit for the holidays.
Visit St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church
Perched above downtown, this small octagonal church dates back to 1894 and reflects Juneau’s blend of Russian and Native cultures. You can admire the exterior and, if you’re lucky, catch a glimpse inside to see its historic icons and altar.
Local Tip: Bring a camera,the views from the church overlook are fantastic.
Explore Wickersham State Historic Site
For just $5, step into the home of James Wickersham, an early judge and political figure in Alaska’s history. The house museum offers a fascinating glimpse into early 20th-century life in Juneau, including period furnishings and artifacts.
Local Tip: Bring cash for admission, some small sites don’t always take cards.
Visit Twin Lakes Playground
If you’re heading to Mendenhall Glacier from the ship docks, Twin Lakes Park is a great stop along the way. This scenic lakeside park offers a playground, picnic areas, and a paved walking path with mountain views. It’s a perfect spot to stretch your legs and let kids burn off energy before continuing your adventure.
Local Tip: Watch for local wildlife, bald eagles are often spotted in the trees near the lake.
Explore Juneau’s Mining Past at the Last Chance Mining Museum
Step back in time at the Last Chance Mining Museum, located on Basin Road in what was once part of the Alaska-Juneau Gold Mine. The museum showcases historic mining equipment, artifacts, and exhibits on Juneau’s gold rush history. It’s a fascinating stop for anyone curious about the industry that helped shape the city.
Local Tip: The museum is housed in a historic building, so wear sturdy shoes.
Discover Even More with Above & Beyond Alaska
Free adventures are a great way to experience Juneau, but if you’re craving an even deeper connection to Alaska’s wild beauty, Above & Beyond Alaska offers guided tours led by locals who know every corner of the region. From glacier trekking to wildlife paddles, these small-group experiences take you off the beaten path and into the heart of Alaska’s landscapes.
Make the Most of Your Day in Juneau
Juneau is full of surprises, from historic streets to forested trails and waterfront views. Whether you’re spending the day soaking up local culture or exploring nature, there’s no shortage of free (and almost free) ways to make your visit unforgettable.
