Welcome to Juneau… Alaska’s breathtaking capital city and a true gem of the Inside Passage! Nestled between the Coast Mountains' towering peaks and the Gastineau Channel's serene waters, Juneau—only accessible by air or sea—is unlike any other U.S. capital. This unique characteristic lends a sense of adventure and remoteness, making it an unforgettable port stop on any Alaskan cruise. From the awe-inspiring Mendenhall Glacier to the vibrant streets of downtown filled with local art, seafood, and cultural treasures, there’s something for everyone in this charming city. And if you’re like us and your cruise itinerary includes just one day in Juneau, don’t worry—you can still experience its highlights with the right plan! In this DIY guide, we’ll show you how to maximize your time with an easy-to-follow itinerary featuring must-see attractions, delicious Alaskan eats, and a few hidden gems. Whether chasing waterfalls, indulging in fresh fish tacos, or soaking up Juneau’s fascinating history, this port guide has you covered.
⬇️ Watch our “One Day in Juneau” video for a closer look at our time! ⬇️
Be sure to check out our “Alaska Cruise Essentials” Amazon list for all the must-pack items!
Note: This itinerary is based on a 6-hour port stay. The exact times listed in the itinerary will vary depending on the ship that you are cruising on.
7:30 AM – Pick Up Rental Car at Cruise Port
For this itinerary to be successful there are two important things that need to happen. First, you’ll need to be one of the first to disembark your ship, and second, you’ll need to have a rental car lined up. We recommend booking a car through Turo (which is kind of like Airbnb for cars) and arranging with the host to pick up and drop off the car at the cruise terminal. This is what we did and it couldn’t have been an easier process! You can also book through Explore Juneau which has a rental desk and cars located at the cruise port.
7:45 AM - Pick up Coffee at Heritage Coffee Roasting Co.
(130 Front St)
Located in the heart of Downtown Juneau, less than a 5-minute drive from the cruise port, you’ll find Heritage Coffee Roasting Co. Heritage has been a cornerstone of Juneau since 1974 and is known for its high-quality, sustainably sourced coffee and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re in the mood for a handcrafted espresso drink, a classic drip coffee, or a seasonal specialty, this local favorite delivers. In addition to coffee Heritage offers delicious baked goods and light bites making it the perfect stop to fuel your Juneau adventure!
8:15 AM – Explore Mendenhall Glacier
(6000 Glacier Spur Rd)
With caffeine in hand, make the 20-minute drive to the iconic Mendenhall Glacier, a breathtaking natural wonder just outside of Juneau. You’ll begin at the visitor center, where you can learn about the glacier’s history and impact on the region. Next, take the Nugget Falls Trail, a scenic and easy 2-mile round-trip hike that leads to the stunning Nugget Falls. Along the way, you’ll enjoy close-up views of the glacier and have countless photo opportunities.
Alternate Hike: If you're up for a bit more of a challenge, try the East Glacier Loop Trail. This moderate 3-mile loop takes you through lush forest and offers elevated views of the glacier from unique vantage points.
10:45 AM – Refuel Your Rental Car
(7900 Honsinger Rd)
About 15 minutes into your drive back to the city center, you’ll see a PetroOne gas station on the right side of the highway. This will be the most convenient place to fuel up your rental car.
11:00 AM – Explore Downtown Juneau
After some outdoor adventure and topping up your rental car with fuel, you’ll make the 10-minute drive to Downtown Juneau where you’ll find a charming blend of history, culture, and local charm. Take some time to stroll along Franklin Street and browse unique shops, admire locally made art, and pick up souvenirs.
Notable Stops:
▪️ Alaska State Capitol: A historic building showcasing Alaskan governance, with free guided tours available.
▪️ Red Dog Saloon: A quirky and historic bar offering live music and an old-timey Alaskan vibe.
▪️ Sealaska Heritage Institute: Discover Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian art and culture through interactive exhibits.
▪️ Juneau-Douglas City Museum: Learn about Juneau’s gold rush history, local industries, and Native heritage.
▪️ Marine Park: A picturesque waterfront area with beautiful views of the Gastineau Channel and cruise ships.
▪️ Tracy’s King Crab Shack (if time allows): Famous for its king crab legs and bisque, a must-visit for seafood lovers.
▪️ Mount Roberts Tramway (if time allows): a breathtaking ride up to 1,800 feet, where visitors can enjoy stunning panoramic views, hiking trails, and a cultural center celebrating Alaska's Native heritage.
11:45 AM – Lunch at Deckhand Dave's Fish Tacos
(139 S Franklin St)
After a morning packed with exploring, it’s time for ..::drum roll::.. tacos! Deckhand Dave’s serves up fresh, mouthwatering fish tacos in a casual outdoor setting (don’t worry, there’s covered seating and a firepit). You can choose from crispy or blackened rockfish, breaded salmon, or beer-battered halibut, all topped with house-made sauces and fresh slaw. Don’t forget to try their salmon tots (think crabcake, but salmon in tot form) for an extra indulgence! Of all of the meals we had at port on our Alaska cruise, this was one of our favorites!
12:30 PM - Head back to the Ship
(451 S Franklin St)
With your belly full and memories made, it’s time to head back to the ship. If you haven’t already, be sure to refuel the rental car and enjoy the short 5-minute drive back to the port before your ship’s “All Aboard” time.
We hope that this guide has helped you make the most of your port day in Juneau, and if it has, we hope you’ll consider following us on Instagram and subscribing to our YouTube Channel for more travel content!
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