This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details. What is there to do in Anchorage? LOTS! Some of our favorite activities are renting bikes, visiting the Ulu factory or just walking around downtown. There is also a great museum that is well worth the time. (Several of the cruise line busses depart from this location.) You can even go to a baseball game! And don’t forget to get a reindeer sausage…absolutely delicious! Baseball Baseball in Alaska, you ask? Yes! Anchorage is home to two teams of the Alaska Baseball League: the Anchorage Glacier Pilots and Anchorage Bucs. In addition to the Glacier Pilots and Bucs, high school and American Legion games are played at Mulcahy. It has a natural grass outfield and an infield of FieldTurf and has one of the largest capacities of any outdoor sports facility in Alaska. Many college players go north each summer to play and to be seen by major league scouts. Biking Biking is a great option for all fitness levels, because the experience is what you make of it. Take relaxing rides along paved trails and enjoy the scenery. Or….try a thrilling mountain bike adventure. Biking makes for a great individual or family activity away from larger tours. There are many trails in and around Anchorage and several places to rent. One of our favorite rides is the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. The trail starts in the downtown area and stretches for 11 miles, offering breathtaking views of Alaska’s natural beauty. It is an easy journey around the Anchorage airport, with paved paths and the chance to see wildlife and beautiful scenery. Be sure to give the wildlife a wide birth though….they are WILD and will attack is threatened. Seeing grizzly bears and moose in Anchorage is common, showing a city living in harmony with the nearby wilderness. Ulu Factory The Ulu factory is close to downtown. It is down the hill, close to the train station. The factory provides a free shuttle, if you choose not to walk. It runs from 10:00am and to 7:00pm June, July and August Inside you can watch the knives being made, the blade and handle assembled and packaged. A staff member will be happy to take you on a personal tour. You can also see a demonstration on how to use, sharpen and care for an Ulu knife and cutting bowls. There is a nice gift shop in the building where you can purchase the knives and other Alaska products. Just behind the building is a salmon creek with viewing platforms. If the salmon are running, this is a great location to see them. Anchorage Museum The Anchorage Museum is a large art, history, ethnography, ecology and science museum located in a modern building in the heart of Anchorage. It is dedicated to studying and exploring the land, peoples, art and history of Alaska. The museum is located at 625 C Street. Cost of admission is $18/adult, $12/senior, student or military with ID, $9/ages 3-12 and free for 2 and younger. We found it to be a pleasant way to spend a few hours and learn more about Alaska. Earthquake Park In 1964, Anchorage was hit by a devastating earthquake, one of the most powerful quakes ever recorded, significantly impacting Anchorage. The city initially considered developing the affected area but opted to preserve it as a park due to the soil’s instability. This decision has provided a space for reflection and education on the forces that shape our world. Earthquake Park Visitors can engage with informative plaques detailing the quake’s events and its effects on the region. It features an extensive walking trail, offering a peaceful journey through shaded forests and alongside the bay with picturesque views. This park is more than just a green space; it’s an educational journey into a pivotal moment in Alaska’s history. It offers a unique opportunity to understand the 1964 earthquake’s impact and enjoy the natural beauty that has emerged in its wake. Explore Downtown Downtown is very walkable with shops, a tourist information center (where you can get information on a free, guided walking tour) and the Alaska Public Lands Information Center (where you can learn about Alaska’s wildlife and wilderness through a scavenger hunt for children). At least one of the shops will have a piece of glacier ice you and touch! Visit a Brewery or Distillery If you are a beer lover, you can visit two breweries downtown….49th State Brewing Co and Glacier Brewhouse. Mid-town you will find Broken Tooth Brewery, Cynosure Brewing and Matanuska Brewing Company. Each brewpub has a full menu of beers and food available. There are also several distilleries in Anchorage you can visit. Alaska Spirits and Anchorage Distillery are two of them. Where to Eat? Snow City Cafe serves classic comfort dishes for those searching for hearty meals. For a more upscale dining experience, Jens’ Restaurant & Wine Bar serves fine food and wine with a touch of Alaskan influence in a fun and elegant atmosphere. Other dining options include Ginger, which offers Pacific Rim cuisine and classic Asian specialties. Club Paris, which offers a traditional steakhouse experience for both lunch and dinner and Kincaid Grill, which specializes in seafood and Alaskan Regional cuisine. We ALWAYS make sure to visit one of the hot dog carts downtown and get a reindeer sausage. Believe me…there is nothing like it! You can get a regular or spicy one, with or without grilled onions. YUM! Aviation Museum Is anyone in your group an aviation enthusiast? The Alaska Aviation Heritage Museum offers a fascinating look into aviation’s pivotal role in Alaska’s past and present. Aviation is a vital mode of transportation across the state’s vast and remote areas, making this museum a must-visit for anyone interested in the unique aspects of Alaskan life. The museum is home to an impressive collection of educational exhibits, including numerousContinueContinue reading “Explore Anchorage: Must-Do Activities and Attractions”
Tag Archives: #Alaska
Must have souvenirs!
When we travel, I love to bring home mementos of our journey….both for me and for friends and family. But this can be challenging. What do I get? How do I get it home? It needs to be small, unbreakable (most of the time!), useful and fun. When going to Alaska, I love to buy small boxes of smoked salmon for gifts. I have also discovered Alaska sea salts by the Alaska Pure Sea Salt Company. This company is based in Sitka, Alaska. I first discovered them in Ketchikan along Creek Street. I have tried the Alder Smoked salt and the Sitka Spruce Tip flake and can recommend both! They are delicious on steak, chicken, fish and roasted vegetables. Since first finding this easy, packable souvenir, I have looked for salt and seasonings in other ports. I have found some in the Caribbean and in European ports. Keep your eyes open in outdoor markets and tourist shops. Smoked Alaska salmon can be found in every port and on most cruise ships in the gift shop. One of my all time favorite things to do in a foreign port is to visit a local grocery store. I usually can find small jars of mustard packaged in something fun, like a drinking glass. France is where I first discovered these, but I have also found them in Germany and Sweden. It’s so much fun to open the jars months later and experience a taste of my journey! Have a look around the store….you may find some local candy, flavor/cooking packets or other small items that you can easily take home with you. My son recently brought home this awesome platter he found in England at a Sainsbury. Since it is unbreakable, it was easy for him to put in his luggage. A few years ago we cruised to the Baltic and visited St. Petersburg, Russia. We really wanted something special from here, but did not want to buy the typical Russian dolls. Imagine our surprise when we walked past a Starbucks and found these! It looks like the Russian Matroyska nesting doll, but is a VERY useful hot/cold drink holder! And for less than $10 each…how could we say no! The perfect memory. Both my daughter and I got one and use them constantly. Other favorite souvenirs are kitchen items….such as dish towels and oven mitts. These are always fun to use and bring back great memories of our travels. And of course…don’t forget mugs and the tea to go in them! These are just a few of my ideas and things I look for. We are always on the lookout for T-shirts and sweatshirts, but how many of these do you really need and/or wear? What are some of your favorite things to bring home? I’d love to hear about them…maybe you will inspire me! Let’s connect: Join me and other cruisers on Facebook at Zest4Cruising, A Celebrity Cruises Forum, A Celebrity Solstice Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Reflection Cruise Forum, A Celebrity RETREAT class forum and Alaska Cruise Lover Forum You can also follow me at: YouTube at Travels With Mickey Pinterest at Travels with Mickey Instagram at Travels with Mickey Please visit and follow my Amazon store for more helpful items to make your cruise even more enjoyable! P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself. Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons are below). Thanks so much! *Zest4Travel is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associate Program. As an Amazon Associate, I may earn from qualifying purchases. .
Pros and Cons of Hubbard Glacier, Glacier Bay, Tracy Arm Fjord and Endicott Arm Fjord
Travels with Mickey Cruises Disney Planning & Packing About Cruises Disney Planning & Packing About More than 2 results are available in the PRO version (This notice is only visible to admin users) Hubbard Glacier vs. Glacier Bay vs. Dawes Glacier: Pros and Cons of Each Cruise Experience This post may contain affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you. I only share products I personally use, genuinely recommend, or believe will help make your cruise travel easier and more enjoyable. Thank you for supporting Travels With Mickey! Many people have questions about the differences between the three glacier experiences available on an Alaska cruise, so I thought I’d put together a quick list of the pros and cons of Hubbard Glacier, Glacier Bay, and Dawes Glacier. Hubbard Glacier Pros: Hubbard Glacier is a massive, advancing glacier reached by sailing through the beautiful Disenchantment Bay. At an incredible 76 miles long and approximately 1,200 feet deep, it is the largest tidewater glacier in North America.One of the biggest advantages of visiting Hubbard Glacier is the opportunity to witness dramatic glacier calving—the spectacular sight and sound of huge chunks of ice breaking away from the face of the glacier. Because Hubbard is actively advancing, calving activity can be especially impressive.The area is also rich in wildlife, both on land and in the water. It is common to spot seals lounging on ice floes, along with other Alaska wildlife. A naturalist onboard will provide information about the glacier, surrounding area, and wildlife, making the experience even more interesting. Hubbard Glacier Cons: There is only one active glacier at this location. There is another glacier off to the side, but it is not advancing and does not calve, so Hubbard Glacier is really the main attraction.Another potential downside is that Hubbard Glacier can be difficult to reach during certain times of the Alaska cruise season. Earlier and later in the season, sea ice can make it challenging for ships to get close to the glacier. Depending on ice conditions, a ship may have difficulty entering Disenchantment Bay or may not be able to cruise as close to the face of Hubbard Glacier as planned.So, while Hubbard can offer an incredible glacier experience, the viewing conditions can be somewhat unpredictable depending on the time of year and the amount of ice in the bay. Glacier Bay Pros: Glacier Bay National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a completely different glacier-viewing experience than Hubbard Glacier. Instead of focusing on one glacier, you’ll have the opportunity to see several glaciers throughout the day.On a typical cruise through Glacier Bay, you’ll see Margerie Glacier, Grand Pacific Glacier, and Lamplugh Glacier, with the majority of your time spent near Margerie and Grand Pacific, which sit next to each other. Margerie is the larger and more active of the two, making it a favorite for watching and listening for calving.Grand Pacific Glacier is quite different. Much of the glacier is covered with rock debris from landslides and medial moraines, which extend across a large portion of the glacier’s face. It may not have the bright blue appearance you might expect from an Alaska glacier, but the geology makes it fascinating to see.If ice conditions allow, the captain may also venture into Johns Hopkins Inlet, giving you a chance to see Johns Hopkins Glacier. I’ve only experienced this once, and the glacier was quite a distance away, but it was still an incredible sight.Another major advantage of Glacier Bay is the National Park Service ranger narration. Because Glacier Bay is a national park, cruise ships are required to have a park ranger onboard while traveling through the park. The rangers provide commentary over the ship’s loudspeakers, pointing out glaciers, wildlife, geology, and the ecology of the area as you sail.And the wildlife sightings can be just as exciting as the glaciers! We’ve watched bears walking along the beach and even saw a moose swimming across the bay while we were near Margerie Glacier.One fun fact we learned from a park ranger: the same bear can be called a coastal brown bear when it is on the coastline and a grizzly bear when it is in the mountains. Same bear—different name depending on where it lives!For me, the combination of multiple glaciers, wildlife, scenery, and the National Park Service narration makes Glacier Bay a very unique Alaska cruise experience. Glacier Bay Cons: While Glacier Bay offers an incredible variety of scenery and glaciers, there are a few things to keep in mind.Many of the glaciers in Glacier Bay are retreating, although not all of them. Johns Hopkins Glacier, for example, is actually advancing at a rate of approximately 10 to 15 feet per day. However, because it can be difficult for cruise ships to get close to the face of Johns Hopkins Glacier, you likely won’t have the opportunity to witness calving there.Margerie Glacier is another example. It is considered relatively stable, meaning it is neither significantly advancing nor retreating. Because of this, it is not as active as some other glaciers, and the calving can be less dramatic. Instead of huge chunks of ice crashing into the water, you may see what looks more like ice waterfalls cascading down the face of the glacier.Another consideration is the weather. Glacier Bay can be cold, wet, and foggy during the Alaska cruise season. The area has a cool, wet coastal temperate rainforest climate, with summer temperatures generally ranging from around 50°F to 60°F.So, if you’re hoping for a warm, sunny day with spectacular glacier calving, Glacier Bay can be a bit unpredictable. But honestly, the weather is part of the Alaska experience—and the scenery is pretty spectacular even when it’s cold and rainy! UPDATE: Due to ongoing safety risks following a 2025 landslide, cruise lines have removed sailings into Tracy Arm from many itineraries and have instead switched to the nearby Endicott Arm Fjord.IfContinueContinue reading “Pros and Cons of Hubbard Glacier, Glacier Bay, Tracy Arm Fjord and Endicott Arm Fjord”
Exploring Ketchikan: Top Activities for Your Alaskan Adventure
Ketchikan is often called the rainfall capital of the United States, so it’s smart to be prepared. That said, in more than 10 visits there, we’ve only had rain once! Ironically, we’ve experienced much more rain in Juneau and Skagway—go figure! Ketchikan has no shortage of things to do. You can dive into Alaskan Native culture, explore its incredible natural scenery, wander historic Creek Street, visit totem parks, take scenic boat tours, go hiking, or catch the always-entertaining Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show. This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details. This is a great place to simply wander and explore at your own pace. Depending on where your ship docks, the main tourist area is either just a short walk away or right outside the ship. If you’re tendering in, you’ll be dropped off directly at the main dock area. If you haven’t pre-booked an excursion, don’t worry—there are plenty of kiosks available offering a variety of tours and activity options right on site. A popular destination for day trippers is Creek Street. This is a pleasant 10-15 minute walk from the cruise port. When walking in Ketchikan, be sure to follow the crossing guard’s directions. The roads are busy with tour busses and the guards are there to keep you safe. From the 1920’s to the 1950’s, Creek Street is where fishermen, miners, and some more genteel characters, found entertainment and feminine companionship. You can visit Dolly’s House Museum ($5 admission fee), which is locally owned and operated by a life long Ketchikan resident who takes great pride in being able to offer this unique and historic video narrated tour that looks back into Ketchikan’s infamous past. Creek Street is also well known for the annual salmon run that happens each summer. During peak season, the creek becomes so full of fish it almost looks like you could walk across it! You may also spot a resident seal near the bridge who has become quite the local character—often seen hanging around and trying to steal a fisherman’s catch when it gets the chance. From the end of Creek Street, you can continue your walk to the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center. Inside, you’ll find exhibits showcasing the commercial, cultural, and recreational importance of the world’s largest temperate rainforest. The center also features a comfortable theater that screens short films about Ketchikan and the Tongass National Forest, offering a great way to learn more about the region and its incredible natural surroundings. Did you know you can take a distillery tour in Ketchikan? Unchartered Alaska Distillery (Station One Distillery) is located right on Main Street and offers a unique experience inside a historic former fire station. On this 2-hour tour, you’ll get a fascinating overview of the building’s history along with an introduction to the distilling process behind their locally crafted spirits. You’ll also enjoy tastings of their house spirits, followed by a hands-on class where you can blend your own custom infusion using provided botanicals, herbs, and spices. To top it off, you’ll design your own custom label for your creation—giving you a one-of-a-kind bottle to take home and share with friends and family. Be sure to plan accordingly for this immersive and interactive experience. Bawden Street Brewing Co. is currently the only active microbrewery in Ketchikan, offering a fun stop for craft beer lovers. They’re known for their creative lineup of offbeat ales, saisons, and sours, giving visitors a chance to try something a little different from the usual brewery fare. You’ll find them just a few blocks from the pier at 325 Bawden Street, making it an easy walk if you’re exploring the downtown area during your visit. We finally visited the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show—and it was such a fun experience! Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show runs several times a day, and you can hear the laughter and cheering from the crowd well before you even step inside. It’s also very reasonably priced, and we were able to book it through the cruise line using onboard credit, which made it even more convenient. I highly recommend this family-friendly excursion if you’re in Ketchikan—it was an absolute hoot from start to finish! Is spotting bears at the top of your list? Then get ready for the ultimate Alaska wildlife adventure in Ketchikan! From the incredible salmon ladder to unforgettable bear sightings at Herring Cove, this is one destination that delivers nonstop nature. You can also explore Rotary Beach, where you might catch glimpses of whales offshore and discover fascinating marine life in the intertidal zones. There is the chance you will see bears in town. We have stumbled on them several times. Please keep your distance from them. They are wild animals and could attack if they feel threatened. Ketchikan is home to the largest collection of totem poles in the world, including some of the oldest still in existence. While the very oldest are preserved in climate-controlled environments and a few remain in private collections, many can still be seen throughout the town. You can explore a significant number at the Totem Heritage Center, or visit one of the nearby totem parks to see these remarkable works of art up close and learn more about their cultural significance. The Misty Fjords are one of the most popular excursions in the region. Misty Fjords National Monument can be experienced in two unforgettable ways—by boat or by air. Personally, nothing beats seeing it from a floatplane. There’s something incredibly “Alaska” about lifting off the water and soaring over it all. This is the Alaska you imagine before you ever arrive: icy blue lakes, dramatic waterfalls, snowcapped peaks, and deep glacial valleys stretching as far as you can see. No matter where you point your camera, it feels like you’ve landed inside a postcard. Have you ever watched Deadliest Catch? The Deadliest Catch tour gives you a glimpse into Alaska’s intense crab fishing industry—but you canContinueContinue reading “Exploring Ketchikan: Top Activities for Your Alaskan Adventure”
Packing for Alaska…What To Bring
Planning an Alaska cruise? After more than 10 years cruising Alaska, here’s exactly what to pack for changing weather, glacier viewing, rainy port days, and comfortable onboard travel, including the must-have clothing, shoes, cabin essentials, and cruise accessories that actually make a difference.
Skagway Alaska Cruise Port: Complete Guide for Visitor
Travels with Mickey Cruises Disney Planning & Packing About Cruises Disney Planning & Packing About More than 2 results are available in the PRO version (This notice is only visible to admin users) Skagway Alaska Cruise Port: Complete Guide for Visitors This post may contain affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you. I only share products I personally use, genuinely recommend, or believe will help make your cruise travel easier and more enjoyable. Thank you for supporting Travels With Mickey! A popular Alaska cruise port, Skagway is a fascinating place to explore, especially if you love history, unique local culture, and spectacular scenery. During a cruise stop in Skagway, you can step back into the days of the Klondike Gold Rush while also enjoying the incredible natural beauty Alaska is known for.Skagway is the northernmost port in Alaska’s Inside Passage, located at the northern end of Lynn Canal. Once a bustling boomtown and the gateway to the Trail of ’98 and the Klondike gold fields, Skagway is much quieter today, with roughly 1,000 year-round residents. During the summer cruise season, however, the town comes alive as more than a million cruise passengers visit Skagway each year.Long before the Gold Rush, the area was used by the Tlingit people as a hunting and fishing ground. In 1896, gold was discovered on a tributary of the Klondike River, about 600 miles from Skagway. When news of the discovery spread, thousands of prospectors headed north, and Skagway quickly grew into a bustling frontier town with a population estimated at 8,000 to 10,000.Many of Skagway’s historic buildings from this era still stand today, along with the town’s distinctive raised wooden sidewalks. On June 28, 1900, Skagway officially became the first incorporated city in Alaska, beating Juneau by just one day. Skagway Cruise Port Most cruise ships visiting Skagway, Alaska, dock at one of the town’s waterfront cruise piers, including the Ore Dock, Railroad Dock, or Broadway Dock. The docks are conveniently located near downtown, making it easy for cruise passengers to begin exploring the historic town.The Railroad Dock has experienced changes in recent years because of rockslide concerns. Depending on current conditions and your ship’s docking location, access to the pier may be limited, so it’s a good idea to check your cruise line’s information before your visit. What You Need to Know About Skagway Cruise Port One of the great things about Skagway cruise port is how convenient it is for cruise passengers. The downtown area is within easy walking distance of the cruise docks, making it simple to explore on your own.There are also plenty of Skagway shore excursions to choose from, including the popular and historic White Pass & Yukon Route. If you haven’t booked an excursion before your cruise, you’ll find tour operators and vendors near the port offering options once you arrive. Currency in Skagway Although Skagway is just a short distance from Canada, it is located in Alaska, USA. The official currency is the U.S. dollar (USD).Most businesses in Skagway accept cash, credit cards, and debit cards, so you shouldn’t have any trouble making purchases during your visit. Language in Skagway English is the primary language spoken in Skagway. However, you may hear some uniquely Alaskan expressions during your visit.A few you might encounter include: Lower 48 – The 48 contiguous United States Break-up – The springtime period when the ice and snow finally begin to melt Cheechako – A newcomer or someone new to Alaska Skagway Time Zone Skagway is in the Alaska Time Zone. During Alaska’s cruise season, the area observes Alaska Daylight Time (AKDT), which is one hour behind Pacific Time and four hours behind Eastern Time.Keep this in mind when booking excursions or making plans for your day in port. Your cruise ship will also provide the official onboard time, which is the time you should follow when returning to the ship. Skagway Weather During Alaska’s cruise season, temperatures in Skagway can range from the 40s to the low 60s Fahrenheit. While Skagway generally has a drier climate than some of the other Southeast Alaska ports, don’t assume you’ll always have sunshine.I’ve experienced some beautiful weather in Skagway—and I’ve also experienced one of the wettest days I’ve ever had in Alaska. It was POURING!Skagway can also be surprisingly windy because of its location at the end of Lynn Canal and the surrounding mountain valley. Even on a relatively mild day, the wind can make it feel considerably cooler.My Alaska cruise packing tip: Layers are your best friend. Mornings can start out chilly, while temperatures may warm up considerably later in the day. A waterproof jacket is also a smart addition, especially if you’re planning to spend the day exploring outdoors.If you’re wondering what to wear on an Alaska cruise, I recommend planning for changing weather rather than packing one heavy coat. Being able to add or remove layers throughout the day will make exploring Skagway much more comfortable.Tip: When considering what to wear on your Alaska cruise, dressing in layers is always a good idea. Mornings will start off cool, but the weather can warm up significantly later in the day. Getting Around Skagway One of the easiest things about visiting Skagway on a cruise is how walkable the town is. The cruise docks are just a short walk from downtown, and the terrain is generally flat, making it easy to explore Skagway on foot.Once you leave the ship, you can stroll along the waterfront and quickly reach the historic downtown area, where you’ll find shops, restaurants, historic buildings, and plenty of opportunities to experience Skagway’s Gold Rush history.One thing to watch for is Skagway’s elevated wooden sidewalks. They’re part of the town’s historic character, but the uneven boards can be an easy place to trip if you’re not paying attention. Take your time, especially if you’re wearing sandals or other shoes that don’t provide much support.Overall, Skagway isContinueContinue reading “Skagway Alaska Cruise Port: Complete Guide for Visitor”
Top Things to Do in Juneau, Alaska
Nestled between towering mountains and the waters of the Inside Passage, Juneau is one of the most breathtaking destinations on an Alaska cruise itinerary. From spotting humpback whales and exploring glaciers to riding scenic tramways and sampling local breweries and distilleries, Juneau offers the perfect mix of adventure, wildlife, and small-town charm. Whether you’re visiting for a few hours on a cruise stop or spending several days exploring Alaska’s capital city, there are countless unforgettable experiences waiting around every corner. Here are some of the best things to do in Juneau, Alaska. Fun fact: Juneau – the capital of Alaska — is the only U.S. state capital you can’t drive to. The only way to reach it is by air or by water, whether that’s by ferry, private boat, or cruise ship. This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy, I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details. Some of my favorite things to do in Juneau include browsing the shops near the cruise docks, zip lining through the rainforest, taking a whale watching excursion, exploring Mendenhall Glacier, and visiting the local breweries and distilleries. Located about 12 miles from downtown Juneau, Mendenhall Glacier is part of the 5,815-acre Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area within the Tongass National Forest. There are several excellent ways to experience the glacier, including Mendenhall Glacier Trolley Tour, Mendenhall Glacier Express Tour, a Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Watching Tour or even Mendenhall Glacier Lake Canoe Tour. Prefer to explore Juneau at your own pace? A self-guided walking tour is a fantastic way to discover the city’s history and culture. Stroll through downtown while visiting popular spots like Red Dog Saloon, Juneau-Douglas City Museum, and Amalga Distillery. Along the way, you’ll hear fascinating stories about the gold rush era, Alaska Native heritage, and the unique architecture that gives Juneau its charm. Best of all, you can start, pause, and continue the tour whenever it fits your schedule. Ride the Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway for some of the best views in Juneau! This scenic tramway lifts you 1,800 feet above the city in just five minutes from the cruise ship pier. Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the Chilkat Mountains, the Gastineau Channel, downtown Juneau, Douglas Island, and the towering peaks of Admiralty Island. At the top, you can explore hiking trails, cultural exhibits, local artisan crafts, and nature displays while soaking in one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in Alaska. One of our all-time favorite excursions in Juneau was zip lining. It’s the perfect adventure if you’re looking to do something a little different while visiting Alaska. One of the most popular options is Alaska Canopy Adventures, a locally owned company offering an unforgettable experience on Douglas Island. Your adventure begins with a scenic drive through the Tongass National Forest as you make your way toward Eaglecrest Ski Area. From there, you’ll soar through the rainforest canopy on a series of exhilarating zip lines, stopping at elevated platforms along the way to take in the incredible scenery and capture photos. The experience also includes crossing a suspension bridge over a rushing stream and ends with the chance to try axe throwing. The entire excursion lasts about three and a half hours and is an exciting way to experience Alaska’s wilderness from above Whale watching is easily one of my favorite excursions in Alaska. Seeing these incredible animals in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience and often becomes the highlight of an Alaska cruise. In Juneau, there are several tour options available, ranging from larger group cruises to more intimate private excursions. Many tours also offer combination experiences that include a visit to Mendenhall Glacier, allowing you to experience two of Juneau’s top attractions in one memorable outing. Looking for even more adventure in Juneau? A kayaking excursion with humpback whales is an unforgettable way to experience Alaska’s incredible wildlife and scenery up close. Your journey begins with a scenic boat ride through the Inside Passage, where you’ll travel toward the whales’ feeding grounds while taking in breathtaking views of glaciers, dense forests, and snow-capped mountains. Once you arrive, you’ll hop into kayaks and paddle through the calm waters in search of humpback whales, sea lions, bald eagles, and other native wildlife. It’s an incredible combination of adventure, nature, and unforgettable Alaskan scenery. Is fishing in Alaska on your bucket list? A small-group salmon fishing excursion in Juneau is a fantastic way to experience Alaska’s famous fishing culture without heading out on the open ocean. This half-day shore fishing adventure lets you skip the possibility of seasickness while still enjoying a hands-on experience focused on catching salmon. Guides provide all the necessary equipment and helpful instruction, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced anglers. Even better, any salmon you catch can be sent to a local fish processor and shipped directly to your home, so you can enjoy your Alaska catch long after your trip ends Did you know that Juneau has a thriving brewery and distillery scene? It’s a great destination for craft beer lovers looking to experience a local side of Alaska. One of the most popular stops is Alaskan Brewing Company — often called “ABC” by locals. Their downtown gear shop is a fun place to pick up souvenirs, clothing, and branded merchandise, and it also features a restaurant where visitors can enjoy local brews. If you want the full brewery experience, head to the main brewery located about five miles from downtown Juneau and just a few miles from the airport. A complimentary shuttle makes getting there easy, and guests ages 21 and older can sample a rotating selection of more than 20 Alaskan beers on tap for a small tasting fee. Did you know Alaskan Brewing Company also produces a creative lineup of ready-to-drink canned beverages beyond beer? One standout from their innovative craft lineup is the Rainforest Gin & Tonic canned cocktail—a crisp, refreshing drink made with house-distilled gin and spruce-tip tonic inspired by Alaska’s coastal rainforest. In addition to their canned cocktails, Alaskan Brewing also offers hard seltzers with a distinctly Alaskan twist, often infused with local flavors like Sitka spruce tips. My favorite is distillery is AmalgaContinueContinue reading “Top Things to Do in Juneau, Alaska”