The 12 Best Juneau Shore Excursions For Your Port of Call

Planning a cruise to Juneau and wondering which shore excursions are actually worth booking? We’ve rounded up the best of the bunch! 

While your time on the ship is a big part of an Alaska cruise, it’s the days in port that really bring the destination to life. However, cruise passengers only have a limited window to explore, and many of Juneau’s best experiences lie beyond the downtown area. The most exciting experiences can be difficult to reach, which is why booking a shore excursion makes perfect sense.

From whale-watching cruises and helicopter flights to glacier adventures, sled dogs, and leisurely sightseeing tours, we’ve rounded up the experiences that are truly worth your valuable time ashore. Let’s go!

Why We Book Shore Excursions Independently  

We almost always book shore excursions independently rather than through the cruise line. We’ve used Viator for cruise excursions many times and have never had an issue. The key is to choose tours designed with cruise passengers in mind, like the ones we’ve included below.

These excursions usually offer start times and meeting points that work around ships arriving in Juneau. They’re also often more affordable than booking through the cruise line, even when the itinerary is very similar. Plus, if an excursion offered by your cruise company has sold out, there’s a good chance you’ll still find an independent alternative.

We also prefer the experience itself. Independent excursions often operate with smaller groups, which means more time to ask questions, take photos, and enjoy the scenery without feeling as though you’re being moved around in a huge crowd.

Of course, we completely understand why cruise passengers worry about missing the ship! Fortunately, many independent excursions in Juneau are built around cruise schedules and ask for your ship details when you book. Some also offer guarantees to get you back before departure or provide refunds if your ship arrives late or misses the port.

We still recommend checking the meeting point, end time, and cancellation policy carefully before booking. However, when you choose a well-reviewed excursion designed for cruise passengers, booking independently can be a great way to save money and enjoy a more personal experience ashore.

Best Juneau Shore Excursions

1. Spot humpbacks on a whale watching cruise (best for wildlife lovers)

Wildlife lovers, this one’s for you! Whale watching is one of the most iconic things to do in Juneau, and this tour makes it easy to experience during a cruise stop.

You’ll head out on a comfortable, modern boat with large viewing windows, outdoor decks, and a heated cabin, so you can enjoy the scenery without spending the entire trip out in the cold. There’s also plenty of room to move around when wildlife appears, which is especially helpful if you’re hoping to take photos.

Humpback whales are the main attraction, and the tour comes with a 100% whale-sighting guarantee. That takes much of the uncertainty out of booking, especially when your time in Juneau is limited. Along the way, you may also spot sea lions, bald eagles, and other marine life while cruising through the beautiful waters surrounding the city.

The crew helps bring the experience to life, too, sharing information about humpback behavior, migration patterns, and the wider marine ecosystem. This makes the excursion feel more meaningful than simply watching for fins from the deck.

We think this is one of the best choices for first-time visitors to Juneau, as it delivers a classic Alaskan wildlife experience without requiring any strenuous activity. It’s also very cruise-friendly, with round-trip transport from the port and multiple departure times available throughout the day.

At around three and a half hours, the excursion fits neatly into most port calls. It’s also one of the top-rated experiences around with THOUSANDS of 5-star reviews!

2. Take a helicopter tour and walk on a glacier (best for thrill-seekers)

If there’s one shore excursion in Juneau that deserves a place on your bucket list, it’s this one. Flying over Alaska’s glaciers before stepping onto the ice is an experience few people ever get to have, and it’s something you’ll remember forever.

This tour begins with a spectacular helicopter flight over the vast Juneau Icefield, where you’ll soar above shimmering glaciers, dramatic icefalls, and rugged mountain peaks. The views alone are worth the trip, offering a perspective of Alaska’s wilderness that simply isn’t possible from the ground.

The real highlight, though, comes when the helicopter lands on a remote glacier. Accompanied by an experienced guide, you’ll have the chance to walk across the ancient ice and take in the incredible scenery from one of the most remote places you’ll ever visit.

There are also several helicopter excursions available in Juneau, ranging from scenic flights to glacier landings and longer guided adventures. But for us, this one really stands out because it strikes a fantastic balance between an unforgettable helicopter flight and the rare opportunity to explore the glacier on foot!

While it’s certainly one of the more expensive shore excursions in Juneau, we genuinely think it’s worth considering if you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Better still, it’s designed with cruise passengers in mind, including round-trip transport from the port and a return-to-ship guarantee. If you’re going to splurge on one excursion during your Alaska cruise, we’d make it this one.

3. Explore the Mendenhall Glacier and go whale watching (best combo tour)

Can’t decide between whale watching and seeing Mendenhall Glacier? The good news is you don’t have to! This popular shore excursion combines two of Juneau’s biggest highlights into one seamless experience, making it an excellent choice if you’re short on time in port.

Your adventure begins with a visit to Mendenhall Glacier, one of Alaska’s most famous natural attractions. You’ll have time to explore the visitor area at your own pace, admire the glacier from several viewpoints, and walk some of the nearby trails. It’s one of the easiest ways to experience a glacier up close without committing to a strenuous hike or full-day adventure.

Next, you’ll board a purpose-built whale watching boat and head out into the waters surrounding Juneau in search of humpback whales. Large viewing windows, spacious outdoor decks, and a heated cabin ensure you’ll have excellent views wherever the wildlife appears. Along the way, there’s also a good chance of spotting bald eagles, sea lions, seals, and, if you’re especially lucky, even orcas. How cool is that?

One thing that really stands out about this excursion is its incredible reputation. With more than 6,500 five-star reviews, it’s one of the highest-rated tours in Juneau, so you can be confident that you’re in for a fantastic experience.

4. See Juneau on an e-bike (best land excursion)

If you’re keen to stretch your legs and spend some time in the open air, this e-bike tour is a fantastic way to explore more of Juneau without taking up your entire day in port. 

The tour takes you across to Douglas Island, where you’ll get fitted with an electric mountain bike and helmet before setting off along mostly paved roads. E-bikes make the ride accessible to a wide range of fitness levels, as you can choose how much assistance you want and use the motor for an extra boost on the hills. No previous e-bike experience is required, either, so this is a great option for beginners.

Along the way, you’ll ride beside the Tongass National Forest, the largest national forest in the USA, while enjoying views of Mendenhall Glacier and Juneau’s dramatic natural scenery. The tour also includes a short walk through the rainforest to a remote beach, giving you the chance to slow down and explore on foot as well.

We love that this excursion allows you to cover far more ground than you could on a walking tour while still feeling immersed in the landscape. And best of all, it’s only three hours long, so you get a fun and active day off the boat without worrying about spending your entire port call on one excursion. You should still have time afterward to browse the shops, grab a bite to eat, or explore downtown Juneau before heading back to your ship.

5.  Paddle across Mendenhall Lake and hike near the glacier (best for hikers)

This Mendenhall Glacier experience is one of the most exciting excursions you can book in Juneau! Rather than admiring the glacier from a distant viewpoint, you’ll paddle across Mendenhall Lake in a canoe, passing floating icebergs and dramatic waterfalls along the way. 

It’s an incredible way to explore the glacier and makes the journey feel like part of the adventure rather than simply a way to reach the main attraction. Once you arrive near the glacier, you’ll continue on foot with an experienced guide. The guided hike takes you across rugged terrain shaped by centuries of glacial movement, giving you the chance to see ancient rock formations and deep crevasses up close. Depending on current conditions, you may also be able to explore ice caves or other areas that aren’t accessible to most visitors.

Wildlife sightings are possible too, so keep an eye out for the bald eagles and porcupines that live around the lake and forest. This tour is much more physically involved than visiting the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, but that’s exactly what makes it so memorable, and the 1,300+ rave reviews certainly attest to that! It’s an unforgettable adventure, and booking this one will really ensure that you get the most out of your shore excursion in Juneau. 

6. Visit the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center and surrounding area (best self-paced experience)

If you want to see Mendenhall Glacier without committing to a physically demanding excursion, this express tour is one of the easiest and most convenient options in Juneau.

You’ll travel by bus from the cruise port to the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, with commentary from your driver along the way. Once you arrive, you’ll have around two hours to explore independently, so you can choose exactly how active you want the experience to be.

You might spend your time learning more about the glacier inside the visitor center, taking photos from the nearby viewpoints, or following one of the surrounding trails. The walk to Nugget Falls is a popular option and rewards you with views of a powerful waterfall beside the glacier, but there’s no pressure to complete a longer hike. Travelers who prefer a slower pace can simply enjoy the scenery and explore the more accessible areas around the visitor center.

We think this is a particularly good choice for less active travelers, families with different fitness levels, or anyone who prefers free time over following a guide from stop to stop. You still get to experience one of Juneau’s most famous natural attractions, but the day feels flexible and unhurried.

The excursion lasts around three hours in total, making it easy to fit into a cruise port call. Once you return to downtown Juneau, you should still have time to browse the shops, grab something to eat, or explore the waterfront before heading back to your ship.

7. Canoe to Mendenhall Glacier and view it from the water (best views)

If you want to experience Mendenhall Glacier from the water without taking on a strenuous hike, this canoe tour is a fantastic middle ground. Rather than viewing the glacier from a busy platform, you’ll paddle across Mendenhall Lake in a large canoe. There’s no motor noise, so the experience feels really peaceful, and it’s so cool to get the chance to glide right by floating icebergs and see the bright blue glacial ice up close! 

You don’t need any previous paddling experience either. Your guide will provide a safety briefing and show you the basics before you set off, and the group works together to move the canoe across the water. The pace is manageable for most active travelers, so it feels adventurous without being too demanding.

Along the way, your guide will share information about the glacier and the wildlife that lives around the lake. You may even spot bald eagles swooping overhead as you paddle! 

We think this is a great option for travelers who want something more memorable than a standard sightseeing stop, but don’t fancy trekking across rugged terrain. It still gives you a close-up glacier experience, with the added fun of reaching it under your own power.

The tour is also designed around cruise schedules and includes a return-to-ship guarantee, which really takes the stress out of booking independently. It’s an awesome way to spend an active few hours in the open air while still getting back to your ship on time.

8. Whitewater raft along the Mendenhall Glacier (best adventure tour)

If you’re looking for an adventure that combines beautiful scenery with a little adrenaline, this whitewater rafting excursion is hard to beat. It’s one of the most exciting ways to experience Juneau’s wilderness, without requiring any previous rafting experience.

After meeting your guide, you’ll head to the Mendenhall River, where you’ll climb aboard a raft and float beneath the towering peaks surrounding Mendenhall Glacier. Along the six-mile route, you’ll navigate fun Class II and III rapids, offering just the right amount of excitement while still being suitable for most adventurous travelers.

Of course, it’s not all about the rapids. The river winds through spectacular Alaskan scenery, with views of Mendenhall Glacier, dense forests, and snow-capped mountains along the way. Keep your eyes peeled, too, as wildlife sightings are common. Bald eagles are regularly spotted overhead, while lucky visitors may even catch a glimpse of seals, otters, or bears near the riverbanks.

One of the things we like most about this excursion is that your guide does all of the rowing, so you can focus on soaking up the scenery instead of worrying about steering the raft. They’ll also share interesting facts about the area’s wildlife, glaciers, and natural history throughout the journey.

At around three and a half hours, this tour fits comfortably into most cruise itineraries while still delivering a memorable Alaskan adventure. It’s an excellent choice if you want something a little more thrilling than a sightseeing tour, but don’t fancy tackling a strenuous glacier hike before heading back to your ship.

9. See the best scenery on a road trip from Juneau (best relaxed experience)

If you’d rather skip the crowds and explore Juneau at your own pace, this private sightseeing tour is an excellent way to make the most of your time in port. Instead of following a fixed itinerary with a large group, you’ll travel in a private vehicle with your very own local guide, who can tailor the experience to suit your interests. 

Along the way, you’ll visit some of Juneau’s most scenic spots, including the beautiful National Shrine of St. Thérèse and viewpoints overlooking Mendenhall Glacier and the Gastineau Channel. Depending on the day and your group’s interests, your guide may also take you to Douglas Island, the Macaulay Salmon Hatchery, or other local highlights. Keep your camera close, too, as it’s not uncommon to spot bald eagles, seals, or even bears while exploring.

One of the biggest advantages of this excursion is that you can cover far more ground than you could on foot, all while enjoying commentary from someone who knows the area inside out. The friendly guides go above and beyond to share local stories and point out places that many visitors would otherwise miss.

At around three hours long, this tour fits comfortably into most cruise itineraries and still leaves time to wander around downtown Juneau before returning to your ship. It’s an ideal choice if you’re looking for a flexible shore excursion with spectacular scenery and plenty of local insight.

10. Hang out with sled dogs and learn all about mushing (best for families)

If meeting sled dogs is high on your Alaska bucket list, this fun and family-friendly excursion is a fantastic way to experience one of the state’s most famous traditions. You’ll travel from the cruise port to a scenic summer training camp, where a team of energetic Alaskan huskies is waiting to meet you!

The highlight of this tour is a ride behind a team of around 16 dogs on a specially designed wheeled sled, which allows the huskies to train even when there’s no snow on the ground. It’s fast, noisy, and full of excitement, but still suitable for a wide range of ages.

After the ride, you’ll have time to learn more about dog mushing from experienced mushers. They’ll share stories about training, racing, and the legendary Iditarod, as well as explain how the dogs are cared for throughout the year. And, of course, there’s usually time to meet the dogs up close and cuddle some seriously adorable husky puppies.

We think this is an especially good choice for families, animal lovers, or anyone looking for a uniquely Alaskan experience that doesn’t involve a strenuous hike or a long day in transit. It’s interactive, educational, and a lot more personal than simply watching a demonstration from the sidelines.

The excursion lasts just over two hours, so it fits easily into most cruise schedules. You should still have plenty of time afterward to explore downtown Juneau, grab some food, or browse the waterfront shops before returning to your ship.

11. Explore the Alaskan wilderness on a Segway (best unique tour)

If you’re looking for a fun way to explore Juneau’s wilderness without committing to a long hike, this Segway tour is a brilliant option. It’s active enough to feel adventurous, but still accessible for beginners and a wide range of fitness levels.

The tour begins with a training session, so there’s no need to have ridden a Segway before. Once everyone feels confident, you’ll head out onto the trails of Douglas Island, where you’ll travel through forested landscapes with views of the surrounding mountains, water, and Alaska’s dramatic scenery.

This is a particularly good choice for families with teenagers, especially those who may be less enthusiastic about a traditional sightseeing tour! Riding a Segway makes the experience feel much more playful, while still giving you the chance to learn about the local landscape, plants, and wildlife from your guide. The small-group format also helps the tour feel personal rather than rushed.

Along the way, there are opportunities to stop, take photos, and enjoy the scenery without having to cover everything on foot. Snacks and bottled water are included, too, which is always welcome after spending time out on the trails.

At around three hours, this excursion fits neatly into a cruise port call and still leaves time to explore downtown Juneau afterward. We think it’s a great pick for travelers who want something lighthearted and a little different from the usual bus or walking tour!

12. Learn about Juneau’s history and sights on a city tour (best for history)

If you want to learn more about Juneau without spending hundreds of dollars on an excursion, this city tour is an excellent choice. At around $51 USD per person, it’s one of the most affordable shore excursions available! 

Over the course of 90 minutes, you’ll travel around the city with a knowledgeable local guide, learning about Juneau’s fascinating history, culture, and natural surroundings. Along the way, you’ll stop at several of the city’s top landmarks, including the striking Tahku whale sculpture at Overstreet Park, scenic viewpoints on Douglas Island, and Brotherhood Bridge Park, where you can enjoy fantastic views of Mendenhall Glacier.

Rather than simply driving from place to place, the tour includes several opportunities to hop off the bus, stretch your legs, and take photos. Your guide also shares interesting stories about Juneau’s gold rush history, local wildlife, and life in Alaska, helping you gain a deeper understanding of the state capital during your short time ashore.

We think this is a particularly good option for first-time visitors who want a broad introduction to Juneau before exploring on their own. It’s also perfect if you’re traveling with family members who would rather avoid more physically demanding excursions.

At just an hour and a half, this is the shortest excursion on our list, leaving you with plenty of time to explore downtown Juneau afterward, or just enjoy a relaxed lunch at the waterfront! It’s relaxed and budget-friendly, so what’s not to love?

Related Read: Cruising beyond Juneau? Check out our guide to the best Alaska cruise excursions, featuring our favorite tours in Skagway, Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, and beyond.

Where to Stay Before or After your Cruise

Most Alaska cruises either start or end in Vancouver or Seattle, so chances are you’ll be passing through one (or both) of these cities. They’re the two main embarkation ports for Alaska itineraries and are well connected with major airports, making them the most convenient options for cruise passengers.

Spending a night or two before or after your cruise is always a good idea. It gives you a buffer in case of delays and lets you explore a bit without feeling rushed. Both cities have great neighborhoods and plenty of restaurants, as well as easy access to their cruise terminals.

Below, we’ve rounded up the best places to stay in Vancouver and Seattle for every budget. All of these options are within easy reach of the cruise ports, so you can keep things simple on travel days! 

Vancouver

Luxury – $$$

The Pan Pacific Vancouver is one of the most iconic hotels in the city, and if you’re cruising from Vancouver, it doesn’t get more convenient than this! The property sits right on top of the cruise terminal at Canada Place, so you can literally walk from the hotel straight onto your ship. Plus, it’s very on-theme, since the hotel is actually designed to look like a ship!

The location alone makes it a top choice for cruise passengers, but the views are just as impressive. Many rooms look out over the harbor, where you can watch ships come and go. There’s also a great setup on-site, including a bar with an outdoor terrace and a spa with a heated outdoor pool overlooking the water.

It’s definitely a splurge, with rooms starting around $500 CAD per night, but for convenience and views, it’s hard to beat. This hotel is so popular, so snag your stay here before rooms sell out!

Mid-Range – $$

EXchange Hotel Vancouver is a great mid-range option if you want to stay close to the cruise terminal without paying luxury prices. It’s located right in downtown Vancouver, just a short walk from Canada Place, so getting to your ship is quick and easy on embarkation day.

The hotel itself is set inside the city’s former stock exchange building, which gives it a bit of character, but the rooms feel very modern. With comfy beds, espresso machines, and rainfall showers, this place offers a nice step up in comfort without going overboard on cost – if you’ll pardon the pun. 

There’s also a stylish restaurant and bar on-site, which is handy if you’re arriving late or just want something easy the night before your cruise. Prices typically sit around $400 CAD in summer and drop closer to $250 in winter, making it a solid value for the location. EXchange Hotel Vancouver is a popular choice with cruise passengers, so it’s worth booking ahead to lock in a good rate!

Budget – $

If you’re cruising from Vancouver on a budget, the YWCA Hotel is one of the best value options in the city! It’s located in downtown Vancouver, about a 15-minute walk or a quick 5-minute drive from the cruise terminal at Canada Place. It’s not quite as close as some of the other hotels, but it’s still very manageable on embarkation day.

The hotel is simple but comfortable, and a great choice if you just need a clean, convenient place to stay before or after your cruise. There’s a shared kitchen on-site, which is ideal if you want to save money on meals, plus free coffee in the mornings and water in the lobby.

You can choose between rooms with a private bathroom or shared facilities, depending on your budget. Prices are usually around $250 CAD in peak season and closer to $150 in the off-season, making it one of the most affordable options near the port. Book your stay at the YWCA Hotel here!

Want more choices? Check out other hotels listed for Vancouver here before you plan your stay!

Related Read: Need help choosing the right area? Explore our full Vancouver neighborhood and hotel guide here.

Seattle

Luxury – $$$ 

Located right across from Elliott Bay, Seattle Marriott Waterfront is a great pick if you’re cruising out of Seattle and want to stay close to the action. It’s within easy reach of the cruise terminals, so getting to your ship is quick and straightforward on embarkation day.

The biggest draw here is the view. Many rooms come with private balconies overlooking the marina, and on a clear day, you might even catch a glimpse of the Olympic Mountains. It’s a great spot to soak in those waterfront vibes before or after your cruise.

The location is also ideal for exploring. You’re just a short walk from Pike Place Market, the waterfront piers, and the Olympic Sculpture Park, so it’s easy to fit in some sightseeing. Rooms typically range from $350 to $1,000+ USD per night, depending on the season and view. Check availability and book your stay here!

Mid-range – $$ 

Mayflower Park Hotel is a great mid-range option in Seattle, especially if you like a bit of character over modern chain hotels. Built in 1927, it has a classic, old-world feel with traditional décor, but still offers all the essentials for a comfortable stay before or after your cruise.

The location is a big plus. You’re right in downtown Seattle, within a 10-minute walk of Pike Place Market and within easy reach of the cruise terminals, so getting to your ship is simple. There’s also direct access to the monorail, which is handy if you want to visit the Space Needle or Seattle Center.

Prices start at around $200 USD per night but range up to $600 USD during peak season. Find the best prices for the Mayflower Park Hotel over at Booking.com!

Budget – $

While there aren’t many true budget options in downtown Seattle, Ace Hotel is one of the best picks if you’re cruising and want to keep costs down without sacrificing location. It’s less than a mile from Pike Place Market and within easy reach of the cruise terminals, making it a convenient base before or after your trip.

The hotel has a cool, slightly quirky vibe with simple but comfortable rooms. It’s clean, well-rated, and does the job if you’re just looking for a place to sleep without paying for luxury extras. You can choose between rooms with shared bathrooms to save money, or upgrade to a private bathroom for a bit more comfort.

At around $220 USD per night, it’s not ultra-cheap, but for central Seattle, it’s about as budget-friendly as it gets! Grab your room at the Ace Hotel here, before they sell out!

Looking for more options? Browse all the hotels listed for Seattle here!

Related Read: Want a deeper dive? Check out our full guide on where to stay in Seattle here for the best neighborhoods and hotels.

Thanks for reading!

No matter what kind of adventure you’re looking for, Juneau has a shore excursion to match. Whether you’re watching humpback whales breach beside the boat, walking across an ancient glacier, meeting sled dogs, or paddling past floating icebergs, it’s the experiences off the ship that make this Alaskan port so unforgettable.

Still planning the rest of your Alaska cruise? Be sure to check out our other Alaska travel guides for more detailed itineraries and our favorite tours to help you plan an unforgettable trip. Or check out some of our most popular destination guides below for more inspiration!

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