Juneau, Alaska: Glaciers, Wildlife & Adventure

I recently sailed on the Celebrity Edge to Alaska. Among our ports stops was Juneau, Alaska’s capital city, which is unlike any other state capital in the U.S.—you can’t reach it by road! Nestled between towering mountains and the waters of the Inside Passage, this unique destination blends political history with breathtaking natural beauty. 

Whether you're here for adventure, wildlife, or a deep dive into Alaska’s rugged charm, Juneau offers an unforgettable port day.

One of Juneau’s biggest draws is Mendenhall Glacier, located just 12 miles from downtown. Part of the vast Tongass National Forest, this stunning glacier is easily accessible, making it one of the most visited sites in Alaska.

• Take an easy walk to Nugget Falls, a dramatic waterfall crashing down near the glacier.
• Visit the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, where interactive exhibits provide insight into the glacier’s formation and climate impact.

• For the adventurous, opt for a guided kayaking or ice cave tour to get up close to the glacier’s breathtaking beauty.

Juneau’s surroundings aren’t just icy wonders—lush forests, alpine meadows, and scenic trails make this a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.

Few experiences compare to the thrill of spotting a humpback whale breaching in the icy waters of the Inside Passage. Juneau is home to some of the best whale watching in Alaska, with tours nearly guaranteeing sightings during the summer months.

• Keep an eye out for bubble net feeding, a unique hunting technique where whales work together to trap fish.
• Along with humpbacks, you may spot orca pods, seals, and sea lions lounging along the rocky coast.
• Tours often include a visit to Lighthouse Point, a prime viewing location where marine wildlife thrives.

If you want a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounter, Juneau delivers.

While sled dog races like the Iditarod take place in the winter, you can still meet the legendary dogs who compete in Alaska’s toughest race. Several tours offer summer sled dog experiences, allowing you to:

• Visit a sled dog camp and meet adorable husky puppies!
• Ride a sled on wheels, giving you a taste of what winter mushing feels like.
• Learn from seasoned mushers, hearing firsthand stories about racing through Alaska’s wilderness.

This activity is perfect for families and provides a glimpse into an iconic part of Alaskan culture.

The cruise ships dock right next to downtown which is full of historic saloons, local breweries and shops to stop for treats or souvenirs.

Packing Tips for Juneau’s Port Day

Juneau’s weather can change quickly, so being prepared is key:
✔ Waterproof layers – It’s often drizzly, so a breathable rain jacket is a must.
✔ Comfortable walking shoes – Trails and excursions may involve uneven terrain.
✔ Binoculars – Perfect for whale watching and spotting bald eagles overhead.
✔ Gloves & hat – Even in summer, it can get chilly on the water.
✔ Reusable water bottle – Stay hydrated while exploring!

From glacier hikes to breathtaking wildlife encounters, Juneau is a Kingdom Konsultant-approved port packed with adventure. Whether you spend the day chasing waterfalls, watching whales, or meeting sled dogs, Alaska’s capital city is bound to leave a lasting impression.

Ready for the perfect blend of scenic beauty and unforgettable experiences? Juneau is waiting! 🐋❄️🐶

Contact your Kingdom Konsultant travel professional or submit a request form for a free cruise quote today. Make sure to check out our Beyond the Kingdom blog page for more port of call reviews!

Maci Schau

Maci is an avid foodie and loves trying out new restaurants and seasonal food offerings in the parks.  You can email Maci at maci@kingdomkonsultant.com.