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Port stop in Juneau…what to do?

We will be stopping in Juno in late May on a cruise. We have all already visited here doing whale watching in the Mendenhall glacier so we thought we would just like to see a bit of Juno. What is the very best way to see a variety of things? We don’t want to sign up with a tour.?

Since you’ve already done the main excursions like whale watching and visiting Mendenhall Glacier, and want to explore Juneau independently, you can enjoy a self-guided day that balances history, culture, and scenic views. Juneau is compact, so you can see a variety of things without joining a formal tour.

Walking and Downtown Exploration

  • Start at the Juneau Visitor Center near the cruise docks for maps and information.
  • Walk along Main Street and Front Street – see historic buildings, local shops, and art galleries.
  • Stop at the Alaska State Museum to get a sense of local history, culture, and indigenous art.
  • Check out the Red Dog Saloon for a quirky historic stop with kitschy Western décor.

Scenic Views and Short Hikes

  • Take a short hike on Mount Roberts Trail if you’re up for a bit of exercise – the trailhead is near the cruise docks and offers great views of Juneau and Gastineau Channel. You can hike partway or take the Mount Roberts Tramway for a panoramic view without too much effort.
  • Consider a stroll along the Juneau waterfront – watch fishing boats, local wildlife, and if lucky, sea otters and seals.

Optional Quick Adventures

  • Rent a bike or e-bike for an hour or two to cover more ground efficiently.
  • Visit Perseverance Theatre or local artisan shops if you want a cultural experience without a guided tour.
  • Grab fresh seafood for lunch at one of the waterfront restaurants, like Tracy’s King Crab Shack or Deckhand Dave’s.

With this plan, you can enjoy Juneau at your own pace, covering history, scenery, and local flavor, all within a few hours without needing a formal tour. This is especially convenient for cruise passengers who want flexibility and variety.

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